Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts
Different Types of Smoke cause different types of Damage
6/2/2022 (Permalink)
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham 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.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 508-746-9500
TIPS to HELP YOUR FAMILY SURVIVE a FIRE from The AMERICAN RED CROSS
6/2/2022 (Permalink)
TIPS to HELP YOUR FAMILY SURVIVE a FIRE from The AMERICAN RED CROSS
* INSTALL SMOKE ALARMS on EVERY level of your home! Including inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. Once a month check whether each Smoke Alarm in the home is working properly by pushing the test button. Replace batteries in Smoke Alarms at least once a year. IMMEDIATELY install a new battery if a Smoke Alarm chirps; warning the battery is low!
* TEACH YOUR CHILDREN what Smoke Alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
* ENSURE that ALL household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home, and where to meet up outside.
* PRACTICE your Fire Escape Plan at least twice a year and at different times of the day! Practice waking up to smoke alarms, low crawling and meeting outside. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
* EMPHASIZE ~ “GET OUT, STAY OUT”! ~ Only professional firefighters should enter a building that is on fire; EVEN IF other family members, pets or prized possessions are inside!
* USE Quick-Release Devices on barred windows and doors. Security bars without Quick-Release devices can trap you in a deadly fire! If you have security bars on your windows, be sure one window in each sleeping room has a Quick-Release device!
* CONSIDER Escape Ladders for sleeping areas on the second or third floor. Learn how to use them, and store them near the windows!
* TEACH household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire!
SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham ~ Faster to Any Size Disaster! ~ Available 24/7
Use SERVPRO Fire Restoration Technicians to Professionally Clear Your Plymouth Home
3/9/2022 (Permalink)
Use SERVPRO Fire Restoration Technicians to Professionally Clear Your Plymouth Home
Most residential fires, like yours, are usually restricted to one part of a home. The origin point is usually a cooking fire in the kitchen or from improperly stored chemicals and cleaning rags in the garage. These locations are where the physical damage is at its worst, such as scorching and other damage from the heat and flames. If the fire burns in your home long enough, it can send smoke, soot, and larger particles throughout the home, which can cause further physical and other damage.
How can SERVPRO protect my home while removing Fire Debris
For fire debris removal in homes, SERVPRO Fire & Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRTs) lay down a layer of thick plastic so that we do not grind burnt particles into what might be an, otherwise, undamaged carpet. Once that is in place, the FSRTs take the next steps:
- Inspect the structural and personal property for items that cannot be cleaned or repaired
- Carefully bag everything small enough before removing it from your home
- Break down more substantial items into smaller pieces for easier removal. Where possible, they disassemble an item (a bookcase for example) to avoid accidentally injuring themselves or causing further damage through demolition
- Place all debris into a skip as quickly as possible for removal to a dumpsite.
What about all of this Smoke and Soot Residue in my home?
We can remove that too. After removing scorched items from properties like wall framing, couches, and ceiling fans, our FSRTs move in to perform the following tasks:
- Where residues are dry and powdery, specialists wipe down everything with dry sponges and cloths. If this does not remove everything, they spray a small amount of water or mild cleaning agent to break up the residue. They repeat this step until the property is clear of smoke and soot residue.
- For wet or sticky residues, our specialists use a stronger cleaning agent to break these down. As with the dry residues,
- If the residues have strongly bonded to a surface, our specialists have another option. If the surface is easily scratched or gouged, FSRTs use a soft-bristled brush to work out the residues. If the surface is stone or brick, they use wire brushes or powered agitation device to dig the residue out of the surface and break it apart for removal.
Fire Damage is Not Only Physical
Odor removal is often the last step for clean-up companies, but at SERVPRO, it is a part of every step in our restoration process. Odor Control Technicians (OCTs) train specifically to eliminate the smell of smoke and other residues that can appear after extinguishing a fire.
- They use cleaning agents specially designed to neutralize odor particles left on otherwise clean surfaces.
- For odors that penetrated the surface of items such as wall framing and other structural property, they sand down the top layers and remove the dust until the odor dissipates.
- If the odor deeply penetrated structural or personal property, they use an ozone generator to create a gas that penetrates to the same depth as the odor particles. The ozone binds with and eradicates the odor particles.
How Expensive is Restoration?
Restoration can be costly, depending on the item. It is, however, the only way to keep a piece of furniture or something else passed done over the generations. That is why our office has Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technicians (UFCTs) and Water Damage Restoration Technicians (WRTs) for particular tasks:
- UFCTs use specialty tools like injectors that attack smoke and soot residues by deeply penetrating fabric on couches and chairs. These devices are also used by OCTs to eliminate odors in the same items.
- WRTs train to remove water damage on the property caused by efforts to extinguish the fire. For example, on wood furniture, they use air movers to evenly dry paint and veneer that was accidentally soaked to lift water spots and other damage.
Does SERVPRO Keep Track of Everything Removed and Replaced or Restored?
Our team leaders maintain a detailed list of their actions on each home we service. That includes a complete inventory of each piece of structural and personal property removed. For restorable items, they keep a list of them and the actions taken to perform the task. This inventory is beneficial when it comes time to deal with your insurance carrier.
For fast, professional, and thorough removal of fire damage in your home, use our experts at SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham. No matter the size of the fire, one of our teams is ready 24/7 to clear and clean your residence. Contact us at (508) 746-9500 today to schedule a service call.
Important steps to follow if you have a fire
3/9/2022 (Permalink)
We’re always told that if disaster strikes, we are to remain calm, cool and collected, but when that time hits, it’s hard to always put those words to action. Although there is a lot of chaos in that moment, it is still very important to stay organized and calm from the beginning of the disaster to the end of the restoration. According to ldr4service.com, there are steps we can take to stay organized and calm during these tense times.
Steps to clearing the chaos –
- First, call your insurance agent to get the claim filed as soon as possible to get the insurance adjustor to your home.
- Next, call your local SERVPRO team to assess the damage as soon as possible and get working on the damage so it does not get worse over time.
- Keep a binder and notepad with all of the information that you’re receiving from your insurance provider and restoration professionals. (During this hectic time, don’t rely on remembering everything just off the top of your head)
- Last, but not least, make sure to save all receipts and documentation you receive pertaining to the incident and only give copies when requested; keep the originals.
Now that we’ve gone through the steps to do, here are some steps NOT to do when involved in this situation.
- Make sure not to wire any soot damage from walls, ceilings or other absorbent surfaces.
- Do not keep or use carpet or furniture that has been heavily damaged by the residue as this is unhealthy.
- Dispose of any canned goods or food items that were exposed to the extreme heat.
- Do not turn on any electronic devices until they’re thoroughly inspected by a professional to make sure there isn’t electrical damage.
Hopefully no one will ever have to go through these events, but if it does occur, these steps will help you keep that calm and collected mindset to get through the unfortunate.
Staying cool after the fire
3/1/2022 (Permalink)
We’re always told that if disaster strikes, we are to remain calm, cool and collected, but when that time hits, it’s hard to always put those words to action. Although there is a lot of chaos in that moment, it is still very important to stay organized and calm from the beginning of the disaster to the end of the restoration. There are steps we can take to stay organized and calm during these tense times.
- First, call your insurance agent to get the claim filed as soon as possible to get the insurance adjustor to your home.
- Next, call SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham at 508-746-9500 to assess the damage as soon as possible and get working on the damage so it does not get worse over time.
- Keep a binder and notepad with all of the information that you’re receiving from your insurance provider and restoration professionals. (During this hectic time, don’t rely on remembering everything just off the top of your head)
- Last, but not least, make sure to save all receipts and documentation you receive pertaining to the incident and only give copies when requested; keep the originals.
Now that we’ve gone through the steps to do, here are some steps NOT to do when involved in this situation.
- Make sure not to wire any soot damage from walls, ceilings or other absorbent surfaces.
- Do not keep or use carpet or furniture that has been heavily damaged by the residue as this is unhealthy.
- Dispose of any canned goods or food items that were exposed to the extreme heat.
- Do not turn on any electronic devices until they’re thoroughly inspected by a professional to make sure there isn’t electrical damage.
Hopefully no one will ever have to go through these events, but if it does occur, these steps will help you keep that calm and collected mindset to get through the unfortunate.
Is it dangerous to breathe in smokes or soot?
3/1/2022 (Permalink)
A Burnt Building Can Produce Unpleasant Odors and Soot. SERVPRO Fire Restoration Services Can Recover your Property.
Is it dangerous to breathe in smokes or soot?
Fires produce lethal gases like monoxide, but these volatile particles typically disperse quickly after the flames are extinguished. Modern materials used for home contents or structure are increasingly involved in their chemical composition. This complexity can lead to smoke residues that contain hundreds of chemicals. While few of these are lethal, ingesting, or inhaling soot and smokes in a fire-damaged structure can be unhealthy. SERVPRO recommends wearing an N95 respirator when working in a structure that has fallen victim to a recent fire.
What airborne dangers exist in a burnt property?
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) can be harmful to human health and inhaled from inside a structure with fire losses.
- Particulate pollution can be microscopic dust or soot particles that can be inhaled or ingested.
- Some deodorization solvents or equipment (oZone generators) can be harmful with inappropriate use.
How do fire technicians restore indoor air quality?
Getting rid of tiny airborne soot or smoke particles is an essential aspect of fire restoration in your Bridgeport home. Many odor control techniques can get rid of smells without addressing particulate pollution. SERVPRO uses air-filtration devices in a burnt property, which can filter out particles as small as 0.3 microns. Deploying an air-filtration device also helps to control odor issues by drawing odor particles out of the environment. Returning your home to a preloss condition includes addressing indoor air-quality problems that may be caused by fire.
What makes a good HEPA filter?
- To carry the label of HEPA, the filtration must be able to remove 99.97% of particles from indoor air
- Clean air delivery rate, which measures the amount of air passing through the filter. High levels ensure efficient air cleansing.
- Checking the minimum efficiency reporting value, or MERV rate, which is an indicator of filtration efficiency.
Restoring indoor air-quality can help return your home to a preloss condition. Contact SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham at (508) 746-9500.
Candle Safety Tips for Date Night this Valentine's Day
2/12/2021 (Permalink)
You may be tempted to leave your candles unattended this Valentine's day to move on to more "important" things... Just be sure to be mindful :)
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. When we think of this beloved holiday the first few things that come to mind are chocolates, flowers and… candles! We want you to have a safe date night this year, so here are 7 great tips to keep your evening safe, romantic and free of disaster.
- Trim the wick. Before lighting a candle, trim the wick to be approximately ¼ inch. This will keep the flame from becoming too large, which can help prevent a home fire.
- Keep your candles in sight. When there’s a lit candle in the room, you should be there, too. For example, let’s say you light a few candles for a romantic dinner, and then you make your way into another room. If your candles accidentally catch something on fire, you might not know until it’s too late. Staying within the line of sight will help you see if any immediate attention is needed.
- Use a long match or lighter. Those who play with fire often get burned. Literally. To prevent your hand from getting too close to the flame and potentially scorching yourself (and ruining date night), always use a long match or long lighter to light your candles.
- Dispose of the match properly. Even if there’s no flame, there’s still heat. So, believe it or not, you can actually start a fire just by throwing a match in the trash. Especially if your flammable materials like tissues and paper from your Valentine’s day gifts. That’s why we recommend running used matches under water before disposing of them.
- Don’t burn for more than four hours. When your candle is burning, carbon collects on the wick. Letting it go for too long can cause the wick to become unstable and the flame to get too large.
- Extinguish appropriately. Suffocate the flame by using a “snuffer” or simply putting the lid on a lit candle, the flames will effortlessly (and safely) die down.
- Pick the perfect spot to enjoy the scent and ambiance. The best place to burn a candle is on a stable, heat-resistant surface. So, in addition to keeping your candle in sight, you should find an area away from children or pets (hopefully you were able to find a sitter!)
If for whatever reason you do experience fire/smoke/soot damage- give us a call at 508-746-9500.
The 5 Leading Causes of Fires
2/1/2021 (Permalink)
If your home or business suffers fire damage, call the restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Plymouth / Wareham!
Top 5 Causes of Fires
Have you ever wondered what the top 5 causes of fires are in the US? Well, we are Here to Help. This top 5 list will go through each cause and explain how you can prevent it from happening in your home or business.
1.) Cooking Equipment. That’s right, cooking equipment left unattended or overheating is the leading cause of fires in the home. Make sure to always turn off your cooking appliances when not in use and always be aware when you are cooking.
2.) Heating. Leaving the heating on or leaving flammable objects around your heating system is a leading cause of fires. Always make sure to be mindful of what is around your heaters. Additionally, always make sure to remember to turn it off when not in use.
3.) Smoking. This is one of the most dangerous, as a cigarette that is not properly put out can quickly cause a large fire. Smoking in your home is not advised. However, if you do choose to smoke, be sure it is always completely put out before leaving the area.
4.) Candles. These small and pretty decorations can easily burst into flames if you don’t attend to them or if they are forgotten about. Also, be sure to keep them away from flammable objects.
5.) Electrical Equipment. These days our homes are filled with tons of gadgets and electronics. Be sure to check that the cords are not faulty or frayed before use and that you don’t overload any adapters.
There is no way to completely avoid these leading causes for fires, so the main takeaway is to just be mindful. Also, make sure your home or business has the proper amount of smoke detectors and fire extinguishers if anything were to catch fire. If it does happen and you are left with fire/smoke/soot damage, give us a call at 508-746-9500.
Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Fire
1/28/2021 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham after the fire trucks leave and everyone is safe. We are Here to Help
Fire Damage and Commercial Properties
Smoke and fire damage problems within your commercial property are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.
Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges
Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.
About SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham
SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water/fire 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. If your commercial property experiences water damage, call us today at (508) 746-9500
Christmas Tree Safety Tips
12/22/2020 (Permalink)
We hope you and your loved ones have a safe and Merry Christmas this year!
Sincerely,
Your friends at SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham
Tis' The Season For Christmas Tree Safety!
Christmas trees are one of the best things about the holidays! I’m sure a lot of us have great childhood memories of going to pick out a tree with family and loved ones. However, Christmas trees are very susceptible to fires. Here are some reminders and tips to abide by when dealing with Christmas trees to prevent a fire.
- Choose Fresh over Cheap and Dry. When choosing a Christmas tree it can be intriguing to go for the cheaper ones. However, one of the most important aspects is to make sure a tree isn’t extremely dry and was well kept before purchase.
- Water! Water! Water! Like we mentioned above, dry trees are more susceptible to catching fire. So be sure that the stand you use for your Christmas tree holds a healthy amount of water to keep your tree hydrated, and is also strong enough to not be toppled over by kids or pets you might have in the home.
- Examine Your Lights. Don’t just blindly put up lights on your Christmas tree. Be sure to examine them each year to ensure that there is no fraying or damaged cords that could cause an electrical fire.
- Don’t Leave Your Lights on 24/7. Be sure not to not leave your lights on overnight and to turn them off when not in use. If they are left on for too long or left unattended they can be a huge fire hazard, especially if you use vintage lights.
- Be Prepared. In the event your Christmas tree is the cause for a fire, be sure your family knows where the fire extinguisher is and how to use it. This is important for ALL potential fire hazards year-round.
Christmas is a time of joy and togetherness. Many memories are made around the holidays, so be sure they are happy and safe ones!
Understanding Fire Alarms
12/17/2020 (Permalink)
Be sure to maintain your fire alarms to keep your Plymouth area home and/or business safe.
Fire Alarms; Ionization Vs. Photoelectric
There are two types of fire alarms: Ionization and Photoelectric.
Ionization fire alarms are more reactive towards blazing fires with large flames. A tiny amount of radioactive material is positioned between two plates that are electrically charged. This ionizes the air around it, causing a small current to exist between both plates. Once smoke from the fire enters the detector chamber, there is a disruption of the flow of ions, causing a reduced current flow. This lack of current flow triggers the alarm to sound.
Photoelectric alarms are more reactive to smoldering, long-lasting fires. A light source in the detection chamber is angled to point away from the sensor, to not receive any light When smoke enters the detection chamber, the light is reflected and dispersed onto the sensor which then triggers the alarm.
Combined alarms are available, or a combination of both alarms is recommended to provide maximum protection from both fast flaming fires and slower smoldering fires in both the home and the workplace.
Maintenance of fire alarms is straightforward:
- Once per month – test the batteries by holding the button for a minimum of five seconds. If they are working it will beep.
- Every six months – Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust. Keeping the alarm free of particles will prevent false alarms and allows for easy access of smoke to the detection chamber and sensor.
- Every twelve months – Replace the batteries if they are lead or alkaline.
- Every ten years – All smoke alarms should be replaced with new ones, or earlier if this is recommended by the smoke alarm manufacturer.
Have You Heard? SERVPRO Is Your Best Bet for Fire Damage Remediation in Plymouth
1/31/2020 (Permalink)
Fires produce fire damage, residues and odors. Contact SERVPRO to address all three right away. Call today.
Making the Right Match for Fire Damage Residue Cleaning in Plymouth
The average homeowner has little experience with fire residues and their cleanup. When a fire does break out in your Plymouth home, it can come as a shock that most of the work involved in recovering from a fire is not fighting the flames, but cleaning up the smoke, soot, and debris afterward. The most critical skills our team brings to soot remediation are the knowledge of what products and cleaning methods exist and the experience of matching them to the soiling found in various areas of your house.
Damage Varies Space to Space
Fire damage in your Plymouth home can occur in many rooms and levels, some because of the proximity to the flames and heat and others because fire residues travel on air currents throughout your home as smoke. Smoke contains water, vapors, and gasses, but also includes solid particles of incompletely combusted structural materials and contents. Tiny bits, lighter than air, float until they settle and attach on surfaces, horizontal, vertical, and every angle in between. The consistency of soot depends on:
- Type of material burned
- Temperature during burning
- Amount of oxygen available during burning
Types of Soot
Soot divides into three major types:
Dry Soot -- from fast burning, hot fires that consume wood and paper
Wet Soot -- from slow-burning, cooler fires that smolder, often consuming damp fabrics and padding or plastic and rubber
Protein Soot -- an evaporative process where food, oils, and grease are heated past the appropriate cooking point
Matching Soot Residues with Products and Cleaning Techniques
Dry Soot
Dusting, dry-sponging, and vacuuming are all examples of techniques our crew uses to remove loose, ashy residues. We also pre-treat areas with wet or protein soot with these methods to clear loose debris before utilizing other products and methods.
Wet Soot
SERVPRO technicians use products that loosen or emulsify the particles, which are usually sticky and hard to dislodge. Most wet soot responds to water-based solutions and agitation using tools like brushes and towels. Spray and wipe, flooding, or immersion are all techniques that have success in removing wet soot.
Protein Soot
The oily, greasy residues after a protein fire might be thin and nearly invisible, but they are some of the most challenging to remove. SERVPRO technicians receive training in the appropriate and safe use of solvents and abrasive cleaning agents or tools to manage this type of residue. Care must be taken to protect individuals near the cleaning area and the surfaces of materials coated with the tightly adhered coating.
SERVPRO of Plymouth / Wareham is ready to help you recover after fire damage spreads debris and residues throughout your home. Call (508) 746-9500 round the clock for fast and professional assessment and interventions.
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Smoke Damage from a Small Fire
1/13/2020 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO for Smoke and Fire Damage Services.
Smoke and Fire Damage in your Plymouth Residence
Many consumers wonder why there is so much smoke damage after the fire department extinguished a small fire. The fire damage might be limited to a small area in the kitchen; however, in some cases, there are deposits of soot and smoke damage in large areas of the home.
SERVPRO helps many residents deal with fire damage in Plymouth every year. Homeowners must contend with the damage from the fire, the residual damage caused by the fire department extinguishing the fire, and the smoke odors that can spread throughout the home. SERVPRO has experienced technicians trained in the removal of smoke odors and fire mitigation services and are ready to assist at a moment's notice.
Why Does Smoke Odor Spread Throughout a Building?
Smoke can travel throughout the home, even if the fire is contained to the kitchen area. The basic rule is that hot air rises and displaces colder air. As the hot air reaches the ceiling, it begins to disperse across the ceiling until reaching doorways and hallways. If the smoky air is quite hot, convection currents carry the hot, smoky air further throughout the home.
HVAC Systems may also be operating within the home. Hot, smoky air is drawn into the system and distributed to other areas of the house to every room with a hot and cold air vent. Some rooms may be worse off than others, depending on air currents and the materials in the rooms.
Smoke particles can become magnetized, primarily from burning plastics and synthetic fibers. Metal surfaces and synthetic materials are most likely to be affected as these particles are attracted to the properties in those items. A synthetic lampshade may have more smoke deposits on it compared to one made of cotton.
Call SERVPRO of Plymouth / Wareham at (508) 746-9500 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve Plymouth, Manomet Beach, and surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.
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SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham Knows About The Importance of a Clean Chimney
12/25/2019 (Permalink)
Be sure to keep your chimney clean to prevent smoke/soot damage to your home.
Why proper chimney maintenance is important
Besides a warming heat and beautiful flame to behold, burning a fire inside a fireplace within a home releases other, more dangerous elements. Creosote is a compound, more commonly referred to as tar, which is known to be flammable and toxic, and is considered to be potentially carcinogenic (causing cancers). In addition to the health hazards, it could set your chimney on fire, and these fires can spread to the rest of your home. Fireplace cleaning is an important part of home maintenance, if you wish to keep your home as well as yourself, healthy and undamaged.
When the amount of creosote is thin, 1/8” or less, it can simply be swept away from the chimney using a specialized brush. Routinely performing this task actually makes the task much easier, as thicker layers of creosote become more tarry and difficult to remove. A solution of warm water and TSP (trisodium phosphate) can help to remove any stubborn tar, but proper ventilation, gloves and goggles are needed to protect yourself from the alkaline chemical, and a drop cloth should be used to protect the floor from both the chemicals and creosote. If the cleaner is unable to remove the tar, the fireplace must not be used again until a professional chimney sweep is able to clean it, or the aforementioned consequences may be the result.
If you do have smoke/soot damage from your chimney, SERVPRO of Plymouth/ Wareham is here to help!
The Importance of Fire Extinguisher Knowledge
12/24/2019 (Permalink)
Know how to use YOUR fire extinguisher!
Extinguishing Unawareness
Although one might think it uncommon to use a fire extinguisher, it is still very important for a house to have a fire extinguisher on each floor. It is equally important to know exactly how to use one. A house can have plenty of combustible material and other furniture that can easily catch on fire and be very hard to put out with water only. The fire can spread around the house within seconds causing smoke, panic, and chaos all around.
A fire extinguisher is the best way to prevent the fire from spreading and minimizing the damaged caused by it. In 2013, 2755 people were killed in home fires that could have been prevented if fire extinguishers were available. It is also very important for everyone in the house to know exactly where the fire extinguishers are and for them to be easily accessible so that the small fire doesn’t escalate causing very costly damage or even injuring people in some cases. Another important rule to remember is to have the fire extinguishers inspected frequently to make sure that they are always working without a problem.
If you experience a fire and you have smoke/soot damage, or even Ansul residue from the fire extinguisher- SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham is here to help restore your home or business back to its pre-fire condition.
Safety Tips for Deep Frying Your Turkey This Holiday Season
12/18/2019 (Permalink)
Better safe then sorry!
Turkey has always been an essential part of holiday meals, and the trend of using a deep fryer has gotten very popular. A deep-fried turkey may give a home chef a new way to enjoy the bird, but there are very serious safety measures that should be followed when cooking to avoid fire-related injury.
First, the deep fryer should always be placed on a level surface and if frying outdoors, placed away from trees, garages and other structures. A deep fryer that is not operating properly can start fires that could become worse when exposed to flammable objects. It is also far too common for the instruction manual to be left behind, especially when the user is familiar with the method of cooking, but it still should be available and referenced before use. Furthermore, make sure to never put a frozen turkey in a deep fryer as this will cause flare-ups; always make sure the turkey is completely thawed when placed in the oil. Additionally, make sure that when the fryer is operational, it is being monitored by an adult to watch for any flareups or other dangerous factors. Lastly, always keep children and pets away from the fryer when it is in use. A child may cause an accident with the fryer or be hurt by the fryer because they cannot recognize the potential dangers.
SERVPRO of Plymouth/ Wareham wishes you and your family a very happy holiday, and also a prosperous New Year!
How to get Your Fire Damaged Plymouth Kitchen Ready for Christmas Dinner
12/16/2019 (Permalink)
Fires started from cooking are the leading cause house fires.
Removing Fire Damage from a Plymouth Kitchen
Massachusetts homeowners often have several measures for fire prevention in their home, including kitchen fire extinguishers, but seldom need to use them. They might be surprised to know that Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are the two most common days for kitchen fires to occur after Thanksgiving, meaning many homeowners may need that extinguisher sooner than they might expect. Cooking equipment is also involved in 19% of holiday home decoration fires.
If your Plymouth kitchen has experienced fire damage over the holiday season, certified SERVPRO technicians are always available to minimize damage to your home. Technicians and franchise owners alike receive extensive education in fire damage mitigation, which includes the removal of soot, protein residues, extinguisher residue, and other issues that can crop up with kitchen fires. These professionals work closely with homeowners and insurance adjusters alike to ensure a deep clean that is done to code and per your insurance policy.
What to Do After a Kitchen Fire
If a cooking fire occurs in your kitchen:
Leave immediately and close the door behind you to keep the fire contained. Call 911 after leaving.
- If you fight the fire yourself, ensure that others have left the area and that you also have a clear, easily-accessible exit.
- Smother grease fires before they occur. The simplest way to do this is to keep a lid nearby while cooking. To smother flames, put this lid over the affected pan and turn off the stove. Leave the lid on until it is cool completely to eliminate the risk of fire.
- If you have an oven fire in your kitchen, turn the heat off and keep the door closed.
How SERVPRO Helps Homeowners
One of the most prevalent issues after a kitchen fire occurs is dealing with invisible protein residues. These deposits, over time, can corrode or discolor materials, as well as impart a strong foul odor that is unpleasant and difficult to remove without professional-grade mitigation. SERVPRO has a variety of tools available for dislodging soils and odor-causing residues, such as EPA-registered disinfectants, dry cleaning sponges, air scrubbers with HEPA filters, and agitating tools for removing residue from ventilation systems. For further odor removal, certified Odor Control Technicians (OCTs) can use thermal foggers to spray dry, solvent-based deodorizers that penetrate surfaces and chemically bind with particles to remove fire-related odors.
SERVPRO of Plymouth / Wareham strives to ensure that your home looks, "Like it never even happened." Call (508) 746-9500 to have a rapid-response cleanup team at your door within hours.
More about Plymouth.
Chimney Fire Safety and Prevention Tips
1/29/2019 (Permalink)
A safe, happy fireplace!
We all love enjoying the fireplace in the winter time… but do you know about chimney fire safety? There are several ways to tell if you are having a chimney fire. Often a big giveaway can be the noise your chimney/ fireplace is making. Ideally, you want your fire to make a light crackling sound; if the fire in your chimney/ fireplace is making an alarmingly loud sound you may be having a chimney fire.
There are two types of chimney fires: Free Burning and Slow Burning.
- Slow Burning Chimney Fires aren’t as loud as Free Burning fires. Sometimes they can even be undetectable. As the name suggests, Slow Burning fires burn slow at high temperatures. Always be sure to check that flames or abnormal amounts of smoke are not coming out of your chimney top.
- Free Burning Chimney Fires are extremely loud. They have been said to sound like a train or even an airplane and you will most likely have large amounts of flames and smoke coming out of your chimney top.
Prevention is extremely important when it comes to fire safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind to prevent chimney fires this season:
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- Never use gasoline or kerosene to start a fire.
- Burn larger logs instead of smaller logs if possible.
- Always try to use dry kindling, newspaper, etc. to start your fires
- Clean your chimney regularly, as well as making sure you get regular chimney inspections.
Always remember:
In the case of any fire, always get out of the house safely and call 911 first.
In the immediate after event of a fire, SERVPRO® of Plymouth/Wareham takes care of the entire fire restoration process to make it "Like it never even happened."
If you have fire or soot damage in your home or commercial property, call (508) 746-9500
Smoke and Soot Cleanup
1/29/2019 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham if you have soot/smoke damage for either emergency services or a free estimate/evaluation!
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 Plymouth/Wareham 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 – 508-746-9500
Fire Prevention Week is coming!
10/5/2018 (Permalink)
Fire Prevention Week facts and resources!
Fire Prevention Week
Fire Prevention week is near! In 2018, Fire Prevention week is between October 7th and 13th, with Fire Prevention Day being Tuesday, October 9th!
What is Fire Prevention Week?
Fire Prevention Week started back in 1925, which was proclaimed a national observance by President Calvin Coolidge. The purpose is to educate adults, teachers, and children about the importance of fire safety. It's also meant to bring awareness to the risk of death in the case of a fire. The dates of Fire Prevention Week vary each year.
This year’s Fire Prevention Week's campaign is “Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. Fire can happen anywhere,” You can see more about this campaign here on the NFPA website about public education.
On the website linked above, you will see the part of the campaign "Look. Listen. Learn" broken down as such:
"LOOK
Look for places fire could start. Take a good look around your home. Identify potential fire hazards and take care of them.
LISTEN
Listen for the sound of the smoke alarm. You could have only minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Go to your outside meeting place, which should be a safe distance from the home and where everyone should know to meet.
LEARN
Learn two ways out of every room and make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily and are free of clutter."
There are also great ways for children to get involved and get educated on fire safety online with tons of great videos and games! Click Here to check out all of the great games and activities hosted by Sparky the Fire Dog!
Though the dates of Fire Prevention Week vary each year, Fire Prevention Day is always the same. Why? Well, October 9th is the date of the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871, and caused severe damage. The Great Chicago Fire burned over 2,000 acres of land, destroyed over 17,000 structures, left over 100,000 citizens homeless, and sadly killed over 250 people.
Therefore, it is of great importance in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire that we educate people of all ages on Fire Safety.
Here at SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham, we often deal with restoring the aftermath of a fire. However, education is of great importance when it comes to both prevention and preparation. For more information on fire prevention, visit https://www.nfpa.org/fpw
And remember, if you or a loved one ever encounters a fire, always call 911 first. If your home was damaged, you can call us here at SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham at (508) 746-9500 for help making it "Like it never even happened."
Post-Fire Tips
10/1/2018 (Permalink)
Always call a professional when it comes to fire/soot/smoke restoration!
What TO do, and what NOT to do after a Fire
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 predominant concerns.
- Only do necessary activities that are safe for you to perform.
- Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!
What to Do After a Fire
- Limit movement within the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
- Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas to limit the spreading of soot.
- Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
- Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
- Wash soot off of houseplants on both sides of leaves.
- Change your HVAC filter, or look into hiring a professional for a duct cleaning.
- Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to prevent soot from traveling.
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 packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water. Even if they are canned goods.
- Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet because the wiring may be damaged.
- Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor. Contact a professional Restoration Dry Cleaning company.
If you or anyone you know runs into smoke/soot/fire damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham to make it “Like it never even happened.” We have the knowledge and the specialized equipment to get your property back to pre-fire condition. Call us at (508) 746-9500.
Restoring a Bridgewater Home After a Fire
5/22/2018 (Permalink)
Look how clean the team at SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham got this carpet after a fire damage!
Restoring a Bridgewater Home After a Fire
This fire damage in a Bridgewater home required a top to bottom cleaning, so the homeowners called SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham! Our crew used chem sponges to clean all surfaces, including ceilings, walls and floors. We also placed air scrubbers, which capture the contaminated air and produce clean non-contaminated air, throughout the home. Air scrubbers help control the odor left behind from a fire damage as well. In this photo, you will see how hard our crew worked to get the soot out from the carpet. We communicate with the homeowner and make sure all needs are met and all questions are answered. As you can see, the team at SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham helped restore this Bridgewater home to a wonderful condition! If you have damage from fire, smoke or soot in your home- Call us today! (508) 746-9500
Plymouth/Wareham Smoke and Soot Cleanup
9/20/2017 (Permalink)
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Plymouth/Wareham 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 – 508-746-9500
Fire Damage - Kingston, MA. 02364
10/10/2014 (Permalink)
Fire Damage caused by a wood stove - Kingston, MA. 02364
This fire damage in Kingston required a top to bottom cleaning. We used chem sponges to clean all surfaces, including ceilings, walls and floors. We placed an air scrubber, which captures the contaminated air and produces clean non-contaminated air. The air scrubber helps control the odor left behind from a fire damage.
Customer's Comments: "Tony is a great employee and floor supervisor"
Fire Damage - Wareham, Ma. 02571
10/10/2014 (Permalink)
Fire Restoration - Fire Damage - Wareham, Ma. 02571 - Grease Fire - Kitchen Fire
This fire damage in Wareham MA occurred from a grease fire in the kitchen. This loss required a top to bottom cleaning. We used chem sponges to wipe down all surfaces including ceilings, walls and floors.
Customer's Comments: "Very professional team of men. Ron was extremely helpful and informative, also Tony - very helpful + polite."
To learn more about our Fire Restoration services go to: http://www.SERVPROplymouthwareham.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration
Commercial Fire Damage - Carver, MA. 02330
10/1/2014 (Permalink)
Commercial Fire Damage - Carver, MA. 02330 - Fire Cleaning - Duct Cleaning - Deodorization
This was a commercial Fire Damage/soot cleanup at a business in Carver, MA. We were able to get in and do the complete cleanup, including cleaning of the ducts. This type of soot cleanup requires top to bottom cleaning of all walls, ceilings, floors, and contents. We also used a thermal fog to deodorize. We had the business up and running within 1 day.
Customer's Comments: "Excellent service, very professional, no recommendations for improvement."
Fire Damage & Duct Cleaning - Plymouth, MA. 02360
9/30/2014 (Permalink)
Fire Damage & Duct Cleaning - Plymouth, MA. 02360
After a fire damage occurred at this customer's home in Plymouth MA, SERVPRO® of Plymouth/Wareham a duct cleaning was performed. The structure was cleaned from top to bottom. This included all ceilings, walls and floors. Upholstery cleaning was performed on all fabric furniture. Also, all carpets were cleaned and deodorized. All contents were cleaned and put back.
Fire Damage - Hingham, MA. 02043
9/17/2014 (Permalink)
Candle Fire - Hingham, MA.
A candle fire caused this customer's home in Hingham, MA. To be covered in soot. The images show the drastic change from before to after. The customer's comments were, "Phenomenal service! Wow! Tony was extremely professional and a great communicator"
Fire Damage - Bridgewater, MA 02324
9/16/2014 (Permalink)
Oven Fire - Fire Damage - Bridgewater MA 02324
An oven fire in Bridgewater, MA left this customer's entire home covered in a sooty film. SERVPRO® of Plymouth/Wareham cleaned the home from top to bottom. The customer's remarks on our survey were: "From start to finish everything was excellent".
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