I Have Fire Damage - Now What?

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Knowing what to do after a fire can seem overwhelming. SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties is here to help.

Fires are stressful events - our owners are no strangers to that since their personal house fire led them to their SERVPRO franchise. Knowing what to do after a fire can seem overwhelming. That's why we are here to help.

First, contact your insurance company and a local disaster relief agency. They can offer assistance if you are displaced or in need of emergency necessities. Try to locate any documents you might need. However, do NOT enter the structure unless the fire department has deemed it safe for you to do so. Safety should be your top priority.

When you call SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties we will assess the damage. We follow a specific process when cleaning soot residues from the structure and contents of your home. Even smaller fires, or fires from a neighboring structure, can create smoke and soot residue which can cause damage to the walls, ceilings, and contents. This residue will need to be professionally cleaned and removed so that damage and odor do not worsen over time. 

What about all that water that was used to put out the fire? Water leftover from firefighting activities should be removed by a professional. Our technicians are trained in both fire and water damage restoration, using specialized equipment, tools, and products. We can remove the water and properly dry the home so that no further damage, such as mold, is caused by standing water.

Clothes Dryer Fire Safety

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Clean lint filters every time you use the dryer.

Did you know that you are at a higher risk of having a clothes dryer fire if you don't clean your lint filter and dryer vents? Follow these simple safety tips to prevent a clothes dryer fire in your home:

• Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional
• Do not use the dryer without a lint filter and clean the lint filter before and after each cycle
• Do not forget to clean the back of the dryer where lint can build up
• Check the venting system behind the dryer to make sure that it is not damaged, crushed, or restricted
• Make sure the outdoor vent covering opens when the dryer is operating

For more information and fire-safety resources, you can visit www.usfa.fema.gov .

Failure to clean the dryer is the leading cause of home clothes dryer fires. SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties is committed to keeping our communities informed about fire safety.

Fire Prevention Week - Fire Safety for Kids

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

October 3-9, 2021 is Fire Prevention Week -Involve kids of all ages in fire safety planning and ensure they know what to do in case of an emergency.

October 3-9, 2021 is Fire Prevention Week

It is important to involve kids of all ages in fire safety planning and ensure they know what to do in case of an emergency.

Smoke Alarms - Teach kids that smoke alarms save lives. Involve them in testing alarms and changing batteries if needed. Demonstrate the sound a smoke alarm will make. Ensure they know what to do when they hear the alarm (stop what you are doing and get outside quickly).

Escape Plans -  Involve kids in creating an escape plan and practicing multiple ways out of each room when available. Practice home fire drills at various times of the day. Agree on an outside meeting place. Teach kids to get low, under the smoke, and go.

Reporting an Emergency -  Teach kids how to call 9-1-1 and they information they will need such as address and phone number so that the firefighters can get to your emergency quickly. Teach kids what constitutes an emergency and that you should only call 9-1-1 in an emergency.

Emergency Personnel -  Teach kids that firefighters and emergency responders are our friends. Take advantage of local Fire Prevention Week or other community events to introduce your kids to firefighters and show them what their gear and equipment looks like. Let them explore the fire station or fire truck and participate in fire safety drills or teachings whenever possible. 

For more information, fun activities, and songs to help your kids learn about fire safety check out Sparky's School House

Fire Prevention Week - Planning for Special Needs

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

Be sure to plan for fire emergencies for those with additional needs in your household.

October 3-9, 2021 is Fire Prevention Week

Being prepared for a fire is hard enough, but there are extra stressors involved when someone in the house has special needs.

What if Someone in My House is Hard of Hearing?

There are smoke alarms and alert devices that alert people who are deaf or hard of hearing. These devices include strobe lights that flash to alert people when the smoke alarm sounds. Pillow or bed shakers also are designed to work with your smoke alarm when properly installed. These work by shaking the bed or pillow when the smoke alarm sounds giving tactile input of the situation. It is a good idea so sleep with your hearing aids or mobile device close to the bed.

Click here for more information on this topic

What About People with Sensory or Physical Disabilities?

Make sure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors meet the needs of everyone in your home. You can install a bedside alert device that responds to the sound of the smoke and CO alarms. Sleep with mobility devices, glasses, and phone close to the bed. Keep pathways such as hallways and stairwells lit with night lights or motion sensors and free from clutter to remove barriers to getting out safely.

Escape Plans for Everyone

If there are older adults or those with mobility limitations in the house, make sure you address those issues in your escape plan. Make sure you have ways to safely remove everyone, even those needing a wheelchair or extra assistance. Practice your escape drill so that everyone knows what to do and can remain calm if the situation arises.

The owners of SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties have a child with a physical disability. They understand, practice, and teach the importance of having a proper safety plan in place in the event of a fire or other emergency. Make sure you think of everyone and their safety. You can never be too prepared.

Fire Prevention Week - Escape Planning

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Plan an escape route from every area of the house and ensure that everyone in the family knows several ways out, what to do, and where to meet.

October 3-9, 2021 is Fire Prevention Week

One of the most important things you can do is plan ahead. Plan an escape route from every area of the house and ensure that everyone in the family knows several ways out, what to do, and where to meet. 

If a fire breaks out, you only have a few minutes to get out safely once the smoke alarm sounds. The owners of SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties know first hand the importance of having a plan in place and knowing what to do in the event of a house fire. On a warm October afternoon their house caught fire and was completely destroyed. Thankfully, working smoke alarms and an escape plan meant that everyone got out of the house safely.

The National Fire Protection Association offers these escape planning tips:

• MAKE a home escape plan. Draw a map of your home and all door and window exits. Discuss the plan with everyone in the home. (According to an NFPA survey, only one of every three households have actually developed and practiced a home escape plan.) 
• KNOW at least 2 ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily.
• HAVE an outside meeting place a safe distance from the house where everyone knows to meet.
• PRACTICE your home drill and practicing using different ways out of the house so that everyone feels comfortable knowing what to do in case of an emergency.
• TEACH children how to escape on their own in case you can't help them.
• CLOSE the doors behind you as you leave. (A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, or fire.)

If the alarm sounds, GET OUT and STAY OUT. Never go back inside for people, pets, or belongings. Professionals can help others safely evacuate. If you have to escape through smoke, GET LOW and GO - find your way under the rising smoke to get out. Call the fire department once you are OUTSIDE your home. Make sure children know how to call 9-1-1 and provide the necessary information in case of an emergency. 

Fire Prevention Week - Carbon Monoxide Safety

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Carbon monoxide - odorless, colorless, tasteless - can be detected and sickness can be prevented. Take the necessary steps to protect your family.

October 3-9, 2021 is Fire Prevention Week

Carbon Monoxide - often called the 'silent killer' - is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels (such as gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane oil, or methane) burn incompletely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel can be sources of carbon monoxide.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) shares this important information about carbon monoxide:

• Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms should be installed in a central location on every level of the home - for the best protection, interconnect CO alarms throughout the home so that one sounds, they all sound.
• Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for placement and mounting height.
• Choose a CO alarm that is listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
• Educate yourself on the number to call if the CO alarm sounds.
• Test CO alarms at least once a month and replace them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• If the audible trouble signal sounds, check for low batteries. If the battery is low, replace. If the signal still sounds, call the fire department.
• If the CO alarm sounds, move to fresh air right away - outdoors if possible or near an open window or door. Call for help from a fresh air location and stay there until emergency personnel declare it is safe to reenter the home.
• If you need to warm up your vehicle, remove it from the garage. Make sure the exhaust pipe is not covered with snow.
• During and after a snowstorm, make sure vents for dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow build up.
• If you use a generator be sure to place in a well-ventilated location outdoors away from windows, door, and vent openings.
• Gas or charcoal grills can produce CO and should only be used outdoors.

Home Heating Equipment

Never use an oven to heat your home. If you use a fireplace, ensure the flue is adequately vented. Fuel-burning heating equipment and chimneys should be inspected by a professional every year before the cold weather arrives.

Carbon Monoxide Facts

A person can be poisoned by a small amount of CO over an extended period of time or by a large amount in a short period of time.

In 2010, US fire departments responded to an estimated 80,000+ non-fire CO incidents in which carbon monoxide was found (an average of 9 calls per hour).

Remember, carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, but very dangerous. Know the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and do your part to prevent it.

Fire Prevention Week - Learn About Smoke Alarms at Home

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Be safe and protect your home and family. Smoke alarms save lives.

October 3-9, 2021 is National Fire Prevention Week.

Today we will provide some tips about smoke alarms in your home.

Smoke alarms are an important part of your fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads quickly. Working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can quickly get outside.

Safety Tips from the National Fire Protection Association

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom. They should also be placed outside the sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Larger homes may require extra smoke alarms.
• It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms - when one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound.
• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month and replace the batteries as needed.
• Current alarms available include many different types of technology such as multi-sensing which can also include carbon monoxide detection.
• A smoke alarms should be on the ceiling or high on the wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms (at least 10 feet from the stove).
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old. 

Facts

• A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire
• Roughly 3 out of 5 fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or non working smoke alarms.

The owners of SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties are no strangers to the importance of working smoke alarms. They lost everything in their own devastating house fire, but thanks to inter-connected, working smoke alarms on every level and in every bedroom, everyone made it out safely before the fire spread. Please be safe and protect your home and family. Smoke alarms save lives.

Fire Prevention Week - Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety

10/3/2021 (Permalink)

Hear a Beep, Get on Your Feet! Hear a Chirp, Make a Change! National Fire Prevention Safety Week 2021

Fire Prevention Week is October 3-9, 2021

The theme this year is Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety. What is that sound you hear from your smoke alarm or carbon monoxide detector? Is it a beep? A chirp? Knowing what the sounds mean can save your life. Make sure everyone in your home understands the sounds of the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and how to respond.

What Is Your Alarm Telling You?

SMOKE ALARMS

• Continued set of 3 loud beeps means smoke or fire. GET OUT, call 9-1-1, and stay out.
• A single 'chirp' every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and needs to be changed.
• All smoke alarms must be replaced after 10 years.
• Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced.

CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) ALARMS

• Continuous set of 4 loud beeps means carbon monoxide is present in your home. Go outside, call 9-1-1, and stay out.
• A single chirp every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be replaced.
• CO alarms also have 'end of life' sounds that vary by manufacturer. This means it's time to get a new carbon monoxide detector.
• Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced.

Pay attention to the sounds you hear and make sure your alarms are working properly. Take action if necessary - better safe than sorry. If something does happen and you have smoke or fire damage in your home, SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties is available 24/7 to help.

For more information on the Fire Prevention Week campaign visit the National Fire Protection Association

National Safety Month - Summer Safety

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

Identifying risks around your home and improving safety standards protects everyone in your community. Today's Tip: Summer Safety/Fireworks

Every week throughout June is an opportunity to make a difference in your home, work and community.

Identifying risks around your home and improving safety standards protects everyone in your community.

We will post several safety tips throughout the month in our blog. You can also check out the National Safety Council website for tips and resources.

Today's tip: FIREWORKS

It's officially SUMMER - that means BBQs, parades, gatherings, and fireworks. And we are all eager to get out and do all the things we missed last summer!

Although still two weeks away, the backyard fireworks shows have already begun. Please leave the fireworks to the professionals. Take the family to a fireworks extravaganza where you can sit back, enjoy the show, and be safe.

In 2017, eight people died and over 12,000 were badly injured and required medical treatment from fireworks-related incidents. Of these, half the injuries were to children and young adults.

Additionally, fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires each year! We know the devastation a fire can cause. Trust us, you don't want it to happen to you!

If you live where it is legal to light fireworks, please use caution:

• Never allow children to use fireworks (even sparklers, a long time favorite for kids, can be dangerous as they burn at about 2,000 degrees - sparklers alone account for more than 25% of emergency room visits for firework-related injuries according to the National Fire Protection Association - consider something safer like glow sticks, confetti poppers, or colored streamers)
• Never use fireworks if you are impaired by drugs or alcohol
• Never light fireworks indoors
• Never point fireworks at anyone
• Use far way from homes, people, and flammable materials
• Light one at a time and remain a safe distance away after lighting
• Soak spent and unused fireworks in water a few hours before discarding

#NationalSafetyMonth

June - National Safety Month

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Identifying risks around your home and improving safety standards protects everyone in your community. Today's Tip: Smoke Alarms

June is National Safety Month

Every week throughout June is an opportunity to make a difference in your home, work and community.

Identifying risks around your home and improving safety standards protects everyone in your community.

We will post several safety tips throughout the month in our blog. You can also check out the National Safety Council website for tips and resources.

Today's tips are near and dear to our hearts as we have seen and personally felt the devastation:

SMOKE ALARMS - three out of five home fire deaths result from fires in homes with no smoke alarms according to the National Fire Protection Association. Be sure to test your smoke alarms every month and replace the batteries at least once a year. If the alarm is making a 'chirping' sound be sure to replace the battery immediately.

Smoke alarms should be in every bedroom and in common areas on each floor. Smoke alarms can be interconnected wirelessly so that they all sound when one detects smoke. This is the best way to notify everyone in the home or smoke or fire. Always purchase smoke alarms with the label of a reputable testing agency.

#NationalSafetyMonth

National BBQ Day - Grilling Safety

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Summer weather means it's time to break out the grill. Have fun, but grill safely!

Summer weather means it's time to break out the grill! May 16th is National BBQ Day.

Grilling safely is a must this summer. According to the National Fire Protection Association, between 2014 and 2018, fire departments went to an annual average of 8,900 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbeques including 3,900 structure fires and 4,900 outside or unclassified fires. Gas grills contribute to a higher number of fires than charcoal grills.

Here are some grilling fire safety tips:

• Grills should be placed well away from home/deck railings, fences, and out from under eaves and branches
• Check out the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) website for a simple test to test your grill for gas leaks and a free safety tip sheet
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from grills and trays below grills
• Never leave your grill unattended, especially with children around

SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties wants you to have fun but be safe this summer. Enjoy grilling season safely, but know that if something happens, we will be there right away to help.

Household Contents - Restore vs Replace

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties we have a restore first mentality. That means what matters to you matters to us, too.

SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties Franchise Professionals clean and restore your property using specialized equipment and cleaning techniques. This "restore first" mentality reduces interruption and gets you back to your life.

After a fire you might think it would just be easier to replace everything and move on. First, that's not always the best move, especially for items with sentimental value. Additionally, many insurance companies don't cover full replacement costs if restoring is an option.

Benefits of Restoring vs Replacing

• Cost Effective - less expensive to dry, clean, and restore many items than replace them
• Time Savings - the drying process restores you to preloss condition sooner as removing and replacing often takes longer
• Family Heirlooms - being able to save your precious items provides peace of mind
• Insurance Preferred - most insurance companies prefer restoration companies such as SERVPRO to clean and restore as many items as feasible

Advanced drying and cleaning techniques, ultrasonic wave technology, and ozone treatment allow us to salvage many of your items.

Unfortunately, not all items can be restored to preloss condition. SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties technicians examines each item to look for fine cracks and stains that cannot be reversed with just cleaning. Some items are refinished; others may need to have parts replaced. Any item that cannot be cleaned to preloss condition is documented so that it can be replaced. We understand that some items are irreplaceable. For irreplaceable items that cannot be restored to preloss condition, our crews are often able to make significant improvements on the appearance and odor of an item that has been in a fire. Crews are trained to inform you of any items that can only be partially restored so that you can decide if you want us to attempt cleaning, with guidance from your insurance company.

When a fire takes control of your life, we help you take control back. Call SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties today: (219)779-7577

Fire Damage Repair and Restoration

5/9/2021 (Permalink)

Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire, call SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties.

Fires are Scary and Devastating

No one knows this better than the owners of SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties. They experience their own devastating house fire and lost everything. They take from that experience to bring hope and trust to their customers.

Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts.

Franchise Professionals at SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties have specialized fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet.

Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today - (219) 779-7577

Fire - What Can You Do Until Help Arrives?

5/9/2021 (Permalink)

Do's and Don'ts of Reacting to a Fire - Wait for Help from SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties.

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

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

Have A Fire or Smoke Damage Emergency?
Call SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties at (219) 779-7577

What To Do After A Fire

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

What NOT To Do After A Fire

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

The Fire Damage Restoration Process

5/9/2021 (Permalink)

After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties Franchise Professionals have the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Today (219) 779-7577

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the "typical" fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. We are available 24 hours a day. Our specialist will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us dispatch our professional technicians with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Our Professionals will carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, the SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We will then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

Our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We will clean all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We're also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Soot and Smoke Damage Cleanup

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties has equipment and expertise to restore your fire and smoke damage.

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

Smoke and Soot Facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke:

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services:

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (219) 779-7577

Help Your Child Survive a Fire

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO recommends taking precautions to help protect and educate your child in the event of a fire.

Fires are devastating events, but you can take precautions to help protect and educate your child.

Smoke Detectors  

• Install smoke detectors on every level of your home and inside bedrooms
• Routinely check that each alarm is working properly
• Replace batteries at least once a year (a good reminder for those that practice Daylight Savings Time is to change the batteries every time you Fall back and Spring ahead) - always install a new battery if the alarm chirps or indicates the battery is low
• Teach your children what your smoke alarm sounds like and what to do when they hear one

Escape Plans

• Ensure that all members of your household know at least two ways to escape from every room and where to meet up outside
• Practice your escape plan
• Make sure everyone knows how to call 911
• Emphasize 'Get Out, Stay Out' - only professional firefighters should enter a building on fire, even if other family members, pets, or prized possessions are inside

The American Red Cross has more information and safety tips - https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/fire-safety-for-kids.html

Fire Damage and Your Belongings

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals are experts and restoring your contents and providing pack out services.

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects more than just the structure of your home. It also affects the belongings inside.

SERVPRO professionals are experts and restoring your contents and providing pack out services.

Contents Restoration

Our 'restore' vs 'replace' mentality helps you save money and preserve precious mementos that cannot be replaced.  We pretest your belongings to determine what items cant be restored to preloss condition. 

Some of the methods we use include:

• Dry Cleaning - light residues or to pre-clean before wet cleaning
• Wet Cleaning - removes moderate to heavy residue
• Spray and Wipe - items that cannot be wet cleaned
• Foam Cleaning - upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned
• Abrasive Cleaning - involves agitation of the surface being cleaned
• Immersion Cleaning - contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product

Pack Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, our professional staff will conduct an organized, efficient pack out of the affected area.

Benefits of a pack out include:

• Quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is complete we work with you to coordinate the move in.

If you have questions or need help, call us today: 219-779-7577

Restore vs Replace - Contents After a Fire Damage

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties Franchise Professionals clean and restore your property using specialized equipment and cleaning techniques. This "restore first" mentality reduces interruption and gets you back to your life.

After a fire you may think it would just be easier to replace everything and move on. First, that's not always the best move, especially for items with sentimental value. Additionally, many insurance companies don't cover full replacement costs if restoring is an option.

Benefits of Restoring vs Replacing

• Cost Effective - less expensive to dry, clean, and restore many items than replace them
• Time Savings - the drying process restores you to preloss condition sooner as removing and replacing often takes longer
• Family Heirlooms - being able to save your precious items provides peace of mind
• Insurance Preferred - most insurance companies prefer restoration companies such as SERVPRO to clean and restore as many items as feasible

Advanced drying and cleaning techniques, ultrasonic wave technology, and ozone treatment allow us to salvage many of your items.

Unfortunately, not all items can be restored to preloss condition. SERVPRO examines each item to look for fine cracks and stains that cannot be reversed with just cleaning. Some items are refinished; others may need to have parts replaced. Any item that cannot be cleaned to preloss condition is documented so that it can be replaced. We understand that some items are irreplaceable. For irreplaceable items that cannot be restored to preloss condition, our crews are often able to make significant improvements on the appearance and odor of an item that has been in a fire. Crews are trained to inform you of any items that can only be partially restored so that you can decide if you want us to attempt cleaning, with guidance from your insurance company.

When a fire takes control of your life, we help you take control back. Call SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties today: (219)779-7577

Smoke and Soot Clean Up- Restoration After a Structure Fire

3/15/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot are invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. In addition to smoke and soot, fires mean water damage to your home or business. Our fire 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 beings, our technicians will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning process will then be based on the information identified during the pretesting.

• 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. 

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – (219) 779-7577

SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties - Content Restoration Experts

3/15/2020 (Permalink)

Your home contains many of your most valuable possessions and houses those you love the most. Your business is your livelihood. The team at SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties understands just how trying, disruptive and traumatic major losses - such as a fire - can be.

As part of our fire restoration service, we don't just pay attention to the structure; we'll also help take care of the contents of your home or business, as well. Some of our contents services include:

Inventory – One of the first priorities in fire restoration is to complete an accurate inventory to help ensure you can properly account for all your belongings. Your SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties technician can provide a detailed room-by-room inventory of contents, including digital photographs and bar codes for each item, suitable for filing insurance claims forms and relieving you of this often stressful and time-consuming process.

Move Outs – When the structure has suffered extensive damage, the cleanup and restoration process may need to be facilitated by relocating the contents for cleaning, deodorization, and storage while structural repairs are being completed. A supervised moving crew can carefully pack and move the entire contents of your home or office.

Contents Cleaning – All of the contents in affected areas that can be restored will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery. SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties technicians begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate; we provide both wet or dry cleaning methods. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to as near as preloss condition as possible; this includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, and much more.

When a fire takes control of your life, we help you take control back. Call SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties today: (219) 779-7577

Fire Content Inventory

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians create detailed inventory checklists of your items to help you recover the most possible.

Has your home been affected by fire damage? A fire will affect more than just your house. Any personal belongings that were in the structure at the time of the fire, or that were brought into the house before repairs were completed, can be covered in soot, damaged by water and fire retardants, and often retain a strong odor.

SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties is prepared to restore both your home and its contents. We use special inventory software to document the condition of all of the items we pack and bring back to our facility in Saint John, Indiana. This allows us to keep track of all of your personal property as it goes through the restoration process and makes it easy for us to return contents to their original rooms.

Ozone to Eliminate Fire Odors

2/27/2019 (Permalink)

An ozone generator is being used to deodorize a home after a fire. Ozone is heavier than air so the generator is set on a ladder for maximum results.

Ozone is a chemical which can be used to neutralize odors. It is made out of three Oxygen atoms, which is not a very stable configuration. This makes it very reactive, because it wants to convert into Oxygen molecules, which are made out of two Oxygen atoms and are significantly more stable. Ozone works to neutralize odor molecules by reacting with them to create Oxygen atoms and other less stinky molecules.

We use Ozone generators after many fire damages to neutralize odors in homes, businesses and in our warehouse on personal property. It is a very effective process and works on most odors and materials. Care must be taken not to expose elastic and certain rubbers to ozone because it can react with them and break them down. Our SERVPRO technicians are trained to determine which deodorization method is best for each project. One of the many benefits to Ozone is that because it causes a chemical reaction, the odor is unlikely to return as long as everything has been thoroughly cleaned.

One of the caveats is that the Ozone generator creates Ozone by removing Oxygen from the environment, which makes it impossible to breathe while it is running. We only use Ozone when structures are unoccupied to avoid problems with this. Once the generator is turned off, the environment will refill with Oxygen as the Ozone reacts with odor molecules making the space safe to inhabit again. Our technicians weigh the pros and cons of each deodorization method to determine which method or combination of methods is most appropriate for each project.

Temporary Power After Fire Damage

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

This generator is being used to power both temporary lighting and air scrubbers to make it safe for our technicians to work.

Last week we discussed the importance of air scrubbers when people are in a structure after a fire damage. What we didn't cover is what to do when a home has no power to run those air scrubbers. Fortunately, at SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton and Southern Lake Counties we have a solution. We are able to supply small generators for most fire projects that require temporary power to run air scrubbers and lights. We can also supply large generators capable of powering enough drying equipment to dry large homes and businesses. When possible, we recommend having an electrician evaluate the home or business's electrical system to see if part or all of the system can be used. When using the existing electrical is not possible, trust us to supply the power we need to complete mitigation and make it, "Like it never even happened."

The Importance of Air Scrubbers on Fire Damages

2/3/2019 (Permalink)

Check out this air scrubber in action on a recent fire damage.

Does the smell of a campfire bring back fond memories? The same smell can be found in a house after a fire damage, although it can vary based on what burned. Unfortunately, that smell is strongly associated with poor air quality. At SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton and Southern Lake Counties we always recommend using air scrubbers to improve the air quality after a house fire until demolition and cleaning are completed. This is done for both your safety and the safety of our workers. It is virtually impossible to know exactly what burned in every fire, and many building materials and personal property can undergo chemical reactions when they are burned resulting in unsafe particles in the air. Our HEPA-filtered air scrubbers are capable of getting almost all of these dangerous particles out of the air, resulting in a safer environment for everyone. Partnered with personal protective equipment, air scrubbers help make your home cleaner and safer.

Total Loss Inventory

1/19/2019 (Permalink)

Many items in this photo cannot be restored to preloss condition but still must be documented so that insurance can issue a check to replace them.

At SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton and Southern Lake Counties we know that fire can affect more than just your house. It can also destroy your personal belongings. We have special inventory software that allows us to mark which items can be cleaned and restored, as well as which items cannot be restored to preloss condition. This can make your life much simpler because insurance companies will want a detailed list of all the non-salvageable items in your home. You do not need to spend the time creating this list yourself. Instead, trust SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton and Southern Lake Counties to complete the inventory. We are used to working with hundreds of different insurance companies and can work with you and your insurance company to create a list that makes it easy for you to get a check to replace any belongings that did not make it.

Fire Content Inventory

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

Has your home been affected by a fire damage? Don't forget that the fire will affect more than just your house. Any personal belongings that were in the structure at the time of the fire, or that were brought into the house before repairs were completed can be covered in soot and retain a strong odor.

At SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton and Southern Lake Counties we are prepared to restore both your home and its contents. We use special inventory software to document the condition of all of the items we pack and bring back to our facility in Saint John, Indiana. This allows us to keep track of all of your personal property as it goes through the restoration process and makes it easy for us to return contents to their original rooms.

Smoke and Soot Damage

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

Dryer fire in University Park, IL.

Fuel, Oxygen, and heat is the perfect storm for complete combustion. However usually a complete combustion does not occur in a house fire, smoke residue or soot is produced. Soot is the product of incomplete combustion. Smoke is the fuel that didn’t burn, made visible by the presence of carbon and other material.

Smoke may seem to dissipate quickly after a fire, but the reality is the rapid cooling of incomplete combustion leaves a film and a odor that penetrates throughout the building. This film can cause discoloration, corrosion, and overall damage.

We at SERVPRO understand that, when a fire occurs, lives are suddenly turned around. Fire is an unpredictable beast that can result in a great deal of loss. The restoration industry has learned that the longer a structure is allowed to remain affected by smoke and soot, the cost incurred increases drastically. Therefore, it is so critical to respond quickly. It is our priority to return the structure to a preloss condition, without causing any additional damage.

SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton and Southern Lake Counties can help in your time of need! Call 219-779-7577!

Fire Damage in Chesterton

3/15/2018 (Permalink)

Recently, SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton and Southern Lake Counties was asked to respond to a fire damage in Chesterton, IN. The home had smoke and soot damage from a water heater that caught fire. All of the home’s structural surfaces and contents were covered with a thin layer of black soot.

Our trained professionals were able to determine which items could be cleaned to preloss condition and which items would have to be replaced.

There are several methods for cleaning smoke and soot damage. One method is dry cleaning which is used any time a material will not survive wet cleaning or has only a little amount of soot/dirt. First, any excess soot is vacuumed. Then the crews use either a pre-treated cloth to wipe the item or a dry cleaning sponge. Both processes work well on books, paper, cardboard, photos, and wood.

If dry cleaning does not restore an item to preloss condition then the crews will switch to wet cleaning which is more aggressive. The wallpaper photographed was first dry cleaned and then wet cleaned. The crew will first pre-test several products to determine which will work based on the specific type of soot you have and confirm it will not damage the surface being cleaned. In this picture, you can see the difference as we cleaned the wall.

SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton, and Southern Lake Counties can help with all smoke or soot damage! Call 219-779-7577 so we can help!

Restoring Contents after a Fire

2/13/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO deals with contents after a house fire in IL.

SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton, and Southern Lake Counties is ready to help in the case of a fire. Fires not only cause damage to your house but they also cause damage to the contents of your home. Know that your concerns will be taken care of with SERVPRO.  

Many of your items might be covered in soot, ash, or debris from the fire. We can help. When cleaning contents after a fire, SERVPRO uses several different proprietary cleaners to restore your items. Technicians are trained to select the right cleaner based on the material of the item being cleaned and the type of soot on the item. A porcelain plate, a book and an antique wooden dresser all react differently to a fire and need to be cleaned accordingly. Our certified technicians are taught to determine the right cleaning process for each item in your home.

Unfortunately, not all items can be restored to preloss condition. SERVPRO examines each item to look for fine cracks and stains that cannot be reversed with just cleaning. Some items are refinished and others may need to have parts replaced. Any item that cannot be cleaned to preloss condition is documented so that it can be replaced. We understand that some items are irreplaceable. For irreplaceable items that cannot be restored to preloss condition, our crews are often able to make significant improvements on the appearance and odor of an item that has been in a fire. Crews are trained to inform you of any items that can only be partially restored so that you can decide if you want us to attempt cleaning.

We also use ultrasonic cleaning to restore your items. This is a very detailed cleaning using ultrasonic wave technology. Every crevice of your item will be cleaned. 

Your items might have an odor. Proper cleaning removes the odor from some materials. Others are treated with ozone or hydroxyls, both of which react with odor molecules to neutralize them. All contents are put through the “sniff test” prior to being packaged for return.

Call SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton, and Southern Lake Counties for all of your fire restoration needs at 219-779-7577!

Demolition Required after Fire in Cedar Lake

2/13/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton and Southern Lake Counties was called out to Cedar Lake, IN, after a fire devastated a home.  The whole house was affected by the fire. The fire damaged the building materials to the point where they had to be torn out and replaced. The ceiling collapsed during the fire and had to be removed. Baseboards and drywall had to be removed due to charting. Carpet and carpet pad had to be removed because of staining from the soot. The tile floor had to be removed to access the wet plywood. The plywood subfloor was not salvageable because it was buckling. Our technicians removed the doors and frames because they warped. The fire caused the bulk of the damage. There was additional damage from the water used to put the fire out. Demolition was necessary to make this home livable again. SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton and Southern Lake Counties was able to help! Call us at 219-779-7577 for your fire mitigation, water mitigation, mold remediation needs. We also restore contents!

Chimney Fire Damages Home in Lake Village, IN

2/13/2018 (Permalink)

Air Movers Placed in Home in Lake Village, IN

SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton, and Southern Lake Counties is here to help! A chimney fire broke out in a home in Lake Village, IN. There was a hole in the chimney that an ember went through to catch the insulation on fire.

The building was very wet and needed to be dried. This was difficult due to much of the insulation in the roof being torn out. The roof was tarped to prevent rain from coming in. Due to the season, temperatures were very low in the home. SERVPRO brought in temporary heaters to warm the house up enough for drying. Each temporary heater is capable of producing as much heat as the furnace in your home!

SERVPRO is certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in Fire and Smoke Restoration, Water Restoration and Applied Structural Drying. The IICRC’s standards guide our technicians through the process of drying your home. Each drying job requires a careful balance of temperature and humidity to dry wet building materials. On fires the crews must also clean the air with negative air filtration devices. You can trust that our certified technicians are capable of evaluating your home and drying it to preloss condition. 

Call SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton, and Southern Lake Counties for all your fire restoration needs at 219-779-7577!

Heavy Soot Damage From Fire in South Holland, Indiana

2/7/2018 (Permalink)

Heavy soot covers this bathroom even though it is one of the furthest rooms from the source.

When a candle tipped over in the basement of this South Holland home the adjacent contents caught on fire. No one was hurt despite how quickly the flames spread throughout the structure. This before photo shows one of the furthest rooms from the source which has a heavy coating of soot. When a fire burns it releases a smoke with particles from the items that it consumed that settle on anything nearby. A thick black coating is evidence that the fire had little access to oxygen while it was burning. The streaks on the glass in the mirror are from the high humidity introduced when the fire fighters used water to put the flames out. While this fire looks bad, our certified technicians were able to clean and restore the homeowner's most precious contents to make it, "Like it never even happened."

Barbecue Fire Damage in Olympia Fields, Illinois

2/7/2018 (Permalink)

This home caught fire after a barbecue wasn't completely extinguished after use.

Last fall this homeowner in Olympia Fields didn't realize that the flame wasn't completely out after making dinner until his house went up in flames several hours later. The embers smoldered until the wind caught them just right and they landed on the deck, catching it on fire. Fortunately the smoke alarms did their job and alerted the family in time to escape without anyone getting hurt. After the fire department put out the blaze, the customer contacted SERVPRO to mitigate the property. Our crews were onsite within 4 hours of the initial call to set drying equipment to minimize the chance of microbial growth. SERVPRO technicians also packed the salvageable contents so they could be cleaned and insurance could compile a total loss inventory.

24 Hour Emergency Response

3/17/2017 (Permalink)

This fire occurred in the middle of the night. Our crews were ready to respond and stabilize the property.

SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton and Southern Lake Counties is available 24 hours a day for fire emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with fire damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of a fire damage.

A hole in the chimney caused this home to catch fire while the homeowner was out of town. We received the initial call in the middle of the night on a weekend and were onsite with crews within a few short hours. On this job, we were able to:

• Secure the property by boarding and tarping
• Quickly restore power to the home
• Extract water and dry the structure to prevent further damage
• Inventory, pack, clean and store salvageable contents
• Update the insurance company and customer before they could be on site
• Stabilize the structure and contents to prevent further damage

When the homeowner returned a week after the date of loss, he was shocked by how much we were able to accomplish while he was out of town. He was thankful that we were able to take care of his property so that he did not have to cut his vacation short.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 219-779-7577

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton and Southern Lake Counties has the specific fire damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in fire damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your fire damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the fire-damaged home or business
• When did the fire occur?
• What caused the fire damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton and Southern Lake Counties

SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton and Southern Lake specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Content Restoration: We Do That, Too!

2/16/2017 (Permalink)

Your home contains many of your most valuable possessions and houses those you love the most. Your business is your livelihood. The team at SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties understands just how trying, disruptive and traumatic major losses - such as a fire - can be.

As part of our fire restoration service, we don't just pay attention to the structure; we'll also help take care of the contents of your home or business, as well. Some of our contents services include:

Inventory – One of the first priorities in fire restoration is to complete an accurate inventory to help ensure you can properly account for all your belongings. Your SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties technician can provide a detailed room-by-room inventory of contents, including digital photographs and bar codes for each item, suitable for filing insurance claims forms and relieving you of this often stressful and time-consuming process.

Move Outs – When the structure has suffered extensive damage, the cleanup and restoration process may need to be facilitated by relocating the contents for cleaning, deodorization and storage while structural repairs are being completed. A supervised moving crew can carefully pack and move the entire contents of your home or office.

Contents Cleaning – All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties technicians begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate; we provide both wet or dry cleaning methods. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to as near as preloss condition as possible; this includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding and much more.

When a fire takes control of your life, we help you take control back. Call SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties today: (219)779-7577

What To Do In A Fire Emergency

2/15/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Damage

Fires can spread fast and cause immediate damage, but we at SERVPRO are here to help restore your home.  As with all natural disasters, you and your family should first assess the situation and determine if it is safe to stay in your home. If you decide to stay in your home, SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties would like to offer pertinent information to keep you safe while we are on our way to help.

After a fire, make sure to limit movement in your home, as soot particles can get embedded into upholstery and carpets.  We recommend placing clean towels or old linens on any rugs or upholstery. In this regard, keeping your hands clean will prevent further soiling to upholstery, walls and woodwork. As we mention on our website, if you have houseplants wash them on both sides of the leaves.  We also suggest changing the HVAC filter and taping double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

However, there are several activities you should not to before we arrive. These include attempting to wash any walls or painted surfaces, or shampoo carpet or upholstery.  Avoid cleaning electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water.  You should also avoid using any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.  If the ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fixtures, as the wiring may be damaged.

Once our SERVPRO professionals arrive, we will handle the rest. We'll be there no matter the disaster- your safety is our main priority.

Preventing Kitchen Fires In Your Southern Lake Counties Home

2/15/2017 (Permalink)

Forty percent of home fires start in the kitchen.

Preventing Kitchen Fires

The kitchen is the busiest room in the house in many homes. It is where food is made and where families congregate to interact with one another and share meals. It is one of the most hazardous areas in the home when it comes to fires. Forty percent of home fires start in the kitchen. A fire can occur from cooking habits or appliances. Smaller appliances like toasters and microwaves cause fires, as well as the larger items. The easiest way to lower the possibility of a fire in your kitchen is to learn how to prevent them. You should also have a fire remediation company’s information on hand, such as SERVPRO, in the case of an emergency.

Prevention of fire and fire damage comes in many forms. No flammable items, for example, should be within three feet of your stove or oven in your Forest Hills home for prolonged periods of time. Keep pot holders, towels, oven mitts, and paper towels away from heat. Loose clothing while you are working at a stove isn't a good idea. Wipe burners and other surfaces on the stove or inside ovens regularly to clean off food particles, oil and other materials that can catch fire when hot. If you do have an accident in your kitchen with one of these items, our technicians at SERVPRO need to be made aware, so we can clean up the damage and restore your kitchen for you.

Utensils which have aluminum or foil, metal, or other objects which are metal-based need to be kept away from your microwave oven. Do not place paper products in your oven unless the instructions on the product say to do so. Exceptions can include pizza trays made for the oven. When using cooking oil, heating it on medium instead of high is much safer. Don't leave food cooking on the stove, either, as this is unsafe and the food can unexpectedly catch on fire. You should especially never walk away from food cooking in oil.

Replace any kitchen appliances that have damaged or frayed cords, since this raises the risk of short circuits and electrical fires. Ensure that children know the rules of kitchen safety and that they are tall enough to stand over the stove and see the whole area clearly before they can cook. They should also only do so under adult supervision.

In the case of accidents, anyone working in the kitchen needs to learn what kind of fire extinguisher that is required to put out kitchen fires. These dry chemical extinguishers are suitable for putting out regular fires like those involving fluids such as oil. Once the fire is safely out, you can count on SERVPRO to remediate the damages for you. Kitchen safety is crucial, as there are several ways in which fires can start. If a kitchen fire happens in your home, contact SERVPRO of Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties right away. We walk you through the process of remediation and calm your worries when you give us a call at (219) 779-7577.

Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties Smoke and Soot Cleanup

1/18/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake County Home.

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 Benton, Jasper, Newton & Southern Lake Counties will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (219) 779-7577