Holiday fire Hazards

11/16/2022 (Permalink)

Colorful lights, burning candles, and festive decorations are just a few of the items bring charm and cheer to the holiday season--however, if they are not used carefully, your holidays may go from festive to frightening.  The American Red Cross offers the following safety tips to help greatly reduce the fire risk in your home or business this holiday season:

• Place Christmas trees, candles, and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents, and candles.
• Make sure light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition.  Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed.
• Never use lit candles to decorate a tree.  Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or before going to bed.
• Use only sturdy three stands designed to not tip over.  Keep curious pets and children away from Christmas trees. Keep anything that can catch on fire--like pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, towels, or curtains--away from your stove top.
• Designate one person to walk around your property to ensure all candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished after guests leave.

Levels of Fire Damage

11/16/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage is a multi-step process that minimizes the extent of a fire loss and ultimately saves the Homeowner money through restoration vs. replacement.

Three Levels of Damage:

• Minor- Smoke residues affect only certain rooms or areas. The amount of smoke residues is light to moderate.  Restoration may involve dry cleaning and/or wet cleaning of ceilings, walls, floors and contents.  Few areas need to be repainted and only minor items require replacement.
• Medium-Smoke residue is moderate, and more materials require wet cleaning to remove residues.  The number of areas requiring repainting and items requiring replacement increase.  Floors may need to be refinished.  Heat damage to drywall, cabinets, and contents requires more materials to be replaced.  Contents might be cleaned at the jobsite.  Smoke odors are noticeable, possibly requiring additional deodorization procedures after cleaning.
• Major-Structural framing and finishes may be charred, requiring structural repairs.  Smoke residues are distributed through a large portion of the building, and strong smoke odors.  Emergency services are needed, such as Board-up, establishing a source of electricity, winterizing the building in cold weather and removing smoke-filled and charred debris.  Restoration will involve extensive cleaning of the structure and probably require restorers to pack and move out all salvageable contents for off-site cleaning.  Multiple methods of deodorization are needed to remove smoke odors.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup | Suffolk County, NY

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of the East End and Hamptons 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 – (631) 653-9595

Expert Smoke and Soot Cleanup Services in the Hamptons

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot can penetrate the smallest crevices and its odors can permeate your home causing irreversible damage to your home, so it's important to hire professional fire damage restoration contractors. 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.  

Important Smoke and soot damage facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas including upper levels of the structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes and travels from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the entire 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 the East End and Hamptons 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 – (631) 653-9595

When fire strikes, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons!

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

When fire strikes, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons!

When something drastic happens in our homes or businesses, such as a fire, we aren’t always thinking of the next steps involved to repairing the damage done. This is when SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons is often called in. We make sure that the fire remediation process is executed as efficiently as possible and that the property is brought back to its original state. 

When fire strikes, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons to restore your property and make fire damage "Like it never even happened." Our team of IICRC trained and certified professionals are available 24/7, 365 days a year. We are always just a phone call away 631-653-9595. Call us today for a no cost assessment! 

How does a puff back occur?

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

How Does a Puff Back Occur?

A puff back happens when an oil burner doesn't immediately ignite and oil fumes are allowed to build up before ignition. This results in an explosion similar to what happens when a car backfires.  It may also occur from a buildup of debris, causing an explosion when the furnace turns on.  In either case, the explosion forces soot and debris through the furnace or the boiler's exhaust system and into your home or business.  The problem is worse with forced hot air systems as the heating ducts spread black soot into every corner of your home, with the same efficiency that they spread heat throughout your property.

Fact #1: Most puff back cleanups are covered by insurance. The professionals at SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons can walk you through the claim process step by step and make it "Like it never even happened.” In fact, our customers often tell us that their properties look and smell cleaner than it ever did before!

During a puff back event, oil based soot typically covers all areas of the property including drapes, bedding, furniture, clothing, cabinetry, ceilings, walls and floors, all of which is extremely difficult to remove. In most instances, you will know that you’ve had a puff back! But there may be times when it is harder to detect because the soot coverage can range from a light dusting to a concentrated dark appearance especially on flat surfaces like counter tops. While you may be tempted to clean the affected area yourself, we don’t recommend you do that as the "dust" will likely re-appear hours afterwards. There may or may be a strong odor in the affected rooms.  Don’t be fooled that the dust is only where you see it. It travels everywhere that the air does—into every nook and cranny. Sometimes you will find what you think are black “spider webs” in the corners of a room. These marks are actually a collection of the sticky soot. At SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons, we have the appropriate equipment, knowledge, experience and training to properly get the job done.

Fact # 2: The cost to repair a furnace will NOT likely be covered by insurance. 

Puff backs create an unhealthy environment for everyone and you should not touch or breathe the soot or particles that are floating through the air and landing on the surfaces of your property. 

Fact #3: Most oil companies can inspect and service the boiler at your property, which greatly reduces the chances of a puff back. However, there is no guarantee against such an occurrence.

Things you should NOT do after a puff back:

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Things you should NOT do after a puff back:

1. Don't attempt to wash any walls, wallpaper or painted surfaces. Don't shampoo your carpet or upholstery.
2. Don’t use standard cleaning products that may cause further damage and may not get rid of the oil residue, toxins and odors.
3. Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water.
4. Don't turn on ceiling fans or increase air circulation as this will only spread the soot around.
5. Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor. 

If you have experienced a puff back in your home or business, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons to restore your property. Our team of IICRC trained and certified professionals are available 24/7 365 days a week. We will treat your property, family and employees with the utmost respect and consideration, and work quickly and efficiently to minimize damage and cost. We work directly with insurance companies in most cases. 

Call SERVPRO of The East End and Hamptons at 631-653-9595 for you puff back needs!

You can rely on the fire damage cleanup and restoration services of SERVPRO of The East End.

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

You can rely on the fire damage cleanup and restoration services of SERVPRO of The East End. 

If you do experience a fire, you can rely on the fire damage cleanup and restoration services of SERVPRO of The East End. We have restored many fire-damaged homes. You can also rely on us for smoke damage cleanup and odor removal. We are available 24/7 for all of your emergency fire cleanup and restoration needs.

Below are some of the ways you can help prevent a fire in your home:

•    Use smoke alarms throughout your home and test them regularly

•    Talk with your kids about the dangers of playing with matches, fire, lighters, and flammable liquids

•    Don’t leave the kitchen when you’re cooking (most home fires start on the kitchen stove)

•    Know and post your local fire department’s emergency phone number

•    Keep your garage and basement clear of trash, newspapers, and other combustibles

•    Make sure flammable liquids are stored in appropriate containers in a well-ventilated area

•    Don’t use extension cords with heaters or air conditioners

•    Use caution with alternative heating sources like kerosene, wood, or pellet stoves

Fire & Smoke Restoration

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End is always a phone call away for your fire and smoke damage cleanup needs. 631-653-9595

Fire & Smoke Restoration

Knowing what to do after a fire or smoke damage is stressful, but that’s where we come in. Once you contact us, our team will spring into action. Every fire damage event is different, and while our highly trained team can come up with a unique solution that is tailored to your needs, the general process remains the same.

Here are the steps that are included in our process:

1. Emergency contact. When you make your initial contact with us, you will be asked a series of questions regarding the fire damage. This helps us make sure our team is dispatched with the appropriate equipment and resources.

2. Inspection and fire damage assessment. Once on the scene, the team will inspect and test adjoining rooms of the property to determine the extent of damage caused by fire, smoke and soot. This helps us determine the right plan of action moving forward.

3. Immediate board-up and roof-tarp service. There’s a pretty good possibility your window, walls and roofs will be compromised by fire damage, so we will make sure that your property is secure and protected from further damage by boarding up missing windows and walls and placing a tarp on damaged roofs.

4. Water removal and drying (if water damage is present). Fires also generally bring water damage. We begin the removal process, getting all wet items out of the structure right away. We bring in dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and finish up the drying process.

5. Removal of smoke and soot from all surfaces. Through the use of specialized equipment and techniques, we are able to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls and other surfaces.

6. Cleaning and sanitizing. We will clean restorable items and structures when it is possible. Not only will they be cleaned, but we engage the use of industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment to help remove odors.

7. Restoration. The final step in getting your property back to pre-fire condition is restoration. This can include minor repairs like replacing drywall, painting and installing new carpet, as well as possible major repairs like reconstruction of damaged areas.

The team of highly trained experts at SERVPRO of The East End is available for emergency cleanup and restoration services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 631-653-9595

Smoke or Fire Damage?

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke or Fire Damage?

SERVPRO of The East End specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire or smoke damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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. 

We work with most major insurance companies and are committed to getting your home or business back up and running as quickly as possible. We will assist you every step of the way with your fire or smoke damage. We are here to help 24/7 and are just a phone call away! Call us with your questions and for more information.

Fire Safety Tips

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

1. Get Rid of Fire Hazards

Every electronic item producing heat should be kept at least three feet away from anything flammable.  Space heaters and electric blankets should be turned off when not in use.

2. NO Smoking in Bed & Extinguish Candles

Smoking in bed is dangerous because of the possibility of hot ashes igniting flammable bedding.  It is also important to make sure all candles are extinguished when unattended.

3. Make Sure Your Children Are Informed

Talk to your children about the importance of not playing with fire. You can take an additional precautionary step by keeping all matches and lighters stored high and out of reach or locked up in a place that your children cannot access.

4. Check Your Smoke Alarms

Be sure you have working smoke detectors on every floor of your home and inside and outside of every sleeping area.  Check these monthly to ensure the batteries are working. Replace smoke detectors every 10 years.

5. Make a Plan

Discuss your outside meeting spot with your family and devise an escape plan.  This escape plan should be practiced at least twice a year.

Need help with a fire damage or puff back you couldn't prevent? Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595. We are always here to help!

What You Need To Know About Smoke Alarms

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

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

• A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement. Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound.
• Large homes may need 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. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
• A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
• People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
• Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan.

Children and smoke alarms

NFPA* is aware of research indicating that sleeping children don't always awake when a smoke alarm activates. While this research is worrisome, we shouldn't allow them to obscure the fact that smoke alarms are highly effective at reducing fire deaths and injuries.

NFPA reaffirms the value of the smoke alarms already available to protect people from home fire deaths and voice its concern about the number of U.S. households without these early warning devices. While 96% of American homes have at least one smoke alarm, no smoke alarms were present or none operated in two out of five (41%) of the reported home fires between 2003-2006. Almost two-thirds of home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

NFPA emphasizes the need to continue planning and practicing home fire escape plans and to make sure everyone in a home can be awakened by the sound of the smoke alarm. NFPA suggests practicing the escape plan during which the smoke alarm is activated so all family members know its sound.

Every home fire escape plan is different, and every family should know who will - and who won't - awaken at the sound of the smoke alarm.

If someone doesn't wake up when the alarm sounds during a drill, the family should design an escape plan that assigns a grown-up who is easily awakened by the alarm to wake the sleepers, perhaps by yelling "FIRE," pounding on the wall or door, or blowing a whistle.

Plan your escape

Your ability to get out of your house during a fire depends on advance warning from smoke alarms and advance planning.

• Get everyone in your household together and make a home escape plan. Walk through your home and look for two ways out of every room.
• Make sure escape routes are clear of debris and doors and windows open easily. Windows with security bars or grills should have an emergency release device.
• Plan an outside meeting place where everyone will meet once they have escaped. A good meeting place is something permanent, like a tree, light pole, or mailbox a safe distance in front of the home.
• If there are infants, older adults, family members with mobility limitations or children who do not wake to the sound of the smoke alarm, make sure that someone is assigned to assist them in the event of an emergency.
• If the smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside. Respond quickly – get up and go, remember to know two ways out of every room, get yourself outside quickly, and go to your outside meeting place with your family.

If you have any questions or need help following damage to your property from a fire, storm or flood, call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595. We are here 24/7 to help with your emergency calls, and happy to answer any questions you may have. 

*Information provided in this blog is from the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association). For more information on NFPA, visit: https://www.nfpa.org/ 

SERVPRO of The East End is Here For Your Fire Restoration Needs

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

When the firefighters leave, it may seem like the danger has passed and your home is safe from further destruction, but without restoration professionals to help clean the smoke damage, your building may never return to normal.

While the principles behind fire restoration are fairly simple, it requires a lot of experience and manpower to safely and adequately perform, and thus, this means that it shouldn’t be attempted by a homeowner on his or her own.  Our IICRC trained and certified professionals at SERVPRO of The East End should be called on-site immediately.  We will clean smoke damage and restore items affected by a fire. But we must be brought to the site as soon as possible to prevent any further damage that ongoing issues with ash residue may cause. 

The only way to properly clean smoke and fire damage is to be extremely thorough. Ash residue is easily disturbed and can easily spread through the building (and everything in the building), causing nearly everything to require restoration. Our specialists at SERVPRO of The East End can identify what can and cannot be salvaged, and will safely remove any built-up ash residue that is coating surfaces. Over time, ash builds up in layers, and may eventually form into a lacquer-like consistency. Once this is done, our restorers will locate the source of the odor, and treat it with specialized detergents that are formulated for neutralizing this kind of odor. Once materials are treated, they may be sealed off to prevent any further odor from permeating the air in the future.

For more information on the services that SERVPRO of The East End provides regarding water and fire damage cleanup for your commercial or residential property, visit our website at www.SERVPROeastend.com or call us today at 631-653-9595.

Important Facts About Smoke Alarms

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

A working smoke alarm should be an important part of every home fire escape plan.

Smoke Alarms are a key factor in a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms will give you early warning so can move quickly outside to safety. 

Following are a few Safety Tips to consider when installing and maintaining Smoke Alarms: 

1. Install smoke alarms in every bedroom. They should also be outside of each sleeping area and on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement. 

2. Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.

3. It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound. 

4. Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working. 

5. Current alarms on the market employ different types of technology including multi-sensing, which could include smoke and carbon monoxide combined. 

6. Today's smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms. 

7. A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet from the stove. 

8. People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers. 

9. Replace all smoke alarms when the are 10 years old. 

A FEW IMPORTANT FACTS

1. A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. 

2. Smoke alarms should be installed inside every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level. Smoke alarms should be connected so when one sounds, they all sound. Most homes do not have this level of protection. 

3. Roughly 3 out of 5 fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. 

*information provided by the National Fire Protection Association, nfpa.org. 

Tips on What to Do Following a Fire Damage

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

Following these tips on What to Do and What Not to Do after you've experienced a Fire Damage on your property will save you time and money while you wait for SERVPRO of The East End to arrive. PREPARE, don’t panic! We got you!

Fire & Smoke Damage

WHAT TO DO:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from scattering and becoming embedded in your upholstery and carpet. Keep hands clean. Soot on hands may further transport and soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.

• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.

• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor

• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances. Follow that step by applying a light coating of lubricant to further protect these surfaces.

• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures

• Change HVAC filter, and leave system off until a trained professional can check the system

• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

WHAT NOT TO DO:

• Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without contacting SERVPRO of The East End.
• Do not attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of The East End.
• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service which SERVPRO of The East End can provide you with.
• Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may have been contaminated).
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Do not send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor. SERVPRO of The East End can assist you in cleaning any clothing, draperies, rugs, carpet or upholstery that may have been affected.

If you have any questions about fire and smoke damage, please do not hesitate to call us at 631-653-9595. SERVPRO of The East End has over 50 years of experience cleaning and restoring residential and commercial properties. We are happy to answer any of your questions. As well, we can assess and mitigate the damages your property has suffered from any fire, water or mold damage you may have had. We are on call 24/7 for all of your emergencies. Ready to make it 'Like it never even happened'.

Call SERVPRO of The East End today at (631) 653-9595.

A Checklist for Preventing Home Fires

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

According to U.S. government statistics, more than 4,000 people die every year in fires and more than 25,000 are seriously injured. Most of these fatalities could be prevented. Here’s a checklist of some of the ways you can help prevent a fire in your home and make your home safer:

•    Talk with your kids about the dangers of playing with matches, fire, lighters, and flammable liquids
•    Don’t leave the kitchen when you’re cooking (most home fires start on the kitchen stove)
•    Know and post your local fire department’s emergency phone number
•    Keep gasoline, kerosene, paint thinners, and other flammable liquids in appropriate containers and away from other flammable materials
•    Keep your garage and basement clear of trash, newspapers, and other combustibles
•    Don’t use flammable liquids like gasoline, kerosene, or benzene indoors
•    Make sure flammable liquids are stored in appropriate containers in a well-ventilated area
•    Safely discard cloths or paper towels used with flammable liquids, preferably outdoors in metal containers
•    Avoid plugging several appliances into one electrical outlet unless you use a UL-approved outlet with circuit breakers
•    Don’t use extension cords with heaters or air conditioners
•    Use smoke alarms throughout your home and test them regularly
•    Use caution with alternative heating sources like kerosene, wood, or pellet stoves
•    Use only the type of fuel that’s meant for these heating sources, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions  

If you must smoke, do so safely:
•    Never smoke in bed
•    Don’t leave the room with a cigarette burning in an ashtray 
•    Keep matches, cigarette lighters, and grill lighters in a locked cabinet
•    Never smoke when you’re drowsy, medicated, or reclining 
•    Make sure smokers have deep, sturdy ashtrays, and make sure cigarette and cigar butts are cold before you put them in the trash

If you do experience a fire, you can rely on the fire damage repair and restoration services of SERVPRO of The East End. We have restored many fire-damaged homes and businesses. You can also rely on us for smoke damage cleanup and odor removal. Our technicians are IICRC trained and certified and we have state-of-the-art equipment to get the job done "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of The East End is available 24/7 for all of your emergency restoration needs. 631-653-9595.

Keeping your Home Safe from Fire

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

House fires are sudden and unexpected. Studies show that you may only have two minutes to leave a home fire and escape to safety, which doesn't seem like much time.  However, Following these tips from the American Red Cross will not only help you prevent house fires, but they will also help you prepare for one and make sure your family is safe if ever one does occur.

1. Get Rid of Fire Hazards

Identifying and taking the necessary precautions to ensure that you do not have fire hazards in your home is important.  This means every electronic items producing heat should be kept at least three feet away from anything flammable.  Space heaters and electric blankets should be turned off when not in use.

2. Avoid Smoking in Bed

Smoking in bed is dangerous because of the possibility of hot ashes igniting flammable bedding.  It is also important to make sure all candles are extinguished when unattended.

3. Make Sure Your Children Are Informed

Talk to your children about the importance of not playing with fire. You can take an additional precautionary step by keeping all matches and lighters stored high and out of reach or locked up in a place that your children cannot access.

4. Check Your Smoke Alarms

Be sure you have working smoke detectors on every floor of your home and inside and outside of every sleeping area.  Check these monthly to ensure the batteries are working. Replace smoke detectors every 10 years.

5. Make a Plan

Discuss your outside meeting spot with your family and devise an escape plan.  This escape plan should be practiced at least twice a year, and you should make sure that every member of your family is able to escape in less than two minutes.

Have additional questions? Or need help with a fire damage or puff back you couldn't prevent? Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595. We are on call 24/7/365 to respond "Faster to any size disaster". Our professional team of IICRC trained and certified technicians have the experience, knowledge and state-of-the-art equipment to make it and make it "Like it never even happened." 

Safety Tips for New Year's Eve

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Happy New Year from all of us at SERVPRO of The East End! Stay safe & enjoy the celebration by taking a few precautions.

New Year's Eve is traditionally a festive time to bid the current year adieu, and ring in the New Year. But for all that there is to enjoy about celebrating the New Year, we also need to take precautions that the celebration remains a celebration and doesn’t end in unexpected tragedy.

By following the tips we’ve gathered here, you will be better prepared to keep your celebration safe.

• If you are planning to celebrate with fireworks, store them in a metal box, read the instructions, never go back to a lit firework and keep a bucket of water nearby
• Never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings. Don't leave them burning unattended.
• Decorations burn easily - Don't attach them to lights or heaters.
• Be sure that holiday cards, wrapping paper & party hats are far away from any from a working fireplace, candles and lights. 
• Turn off electrical appliances when not in use, unless they're designed to stay on. Take special care with fairy lights and outdoor lights. Always turn them off and unplug lights before you go to bed.
• See that your lights conform to the British Standard. Always use an RCD on outdoor electrical equipment (this is a safety device that saves lives by instantly turning the power off).
• Never leave cooking unattended.
• Check the batteries in your smoke & fire alarms every week and use the New Year as a reminder to clean it out and remove dust.

SERVPRO of The East End understands that New Year's celebrations are a time to have fun with family and friends!  

From all of us at SERVPRO of The East End - We wish you and your families a Happy, Healthy, Safe and Festive New Year! 

Holiday Fire Safety Tips 2018

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

Follow certain precautions this Holiday season to keep your family and home safe.

The Holiday Season is one of the most dangerous times of the year for household fires. Please take note of the following tips to reduce your own risk. 

Residential fires during the holiday season are more frequent, more costly, and more deadly than at any other time of the year. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) reports more than double the number of open-flame fires on Christmas Day than on an average day, and about twice as many on New Year’s Day. And when these fires occur, they do more damage: Property loss during a holiday fire is 34% greater than in an average fire, and the number of fatalities per thousand fires is nearly 70% higher. When the source of the fire is a highly flammable Christmas tree, the toll in property and lives is even greater.

To keep your household from becoming a holiday fire statistic, here are some safety tips to follow.

Cooking

According to the USFA, cooking is the leading cause of holiday fires. The most common culprit is food that is left unattended. It’s easy to get distracted; take a pot holder with you when you leave the kitchen as a reminder that you have something on the stove. Be sure to keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen that’s rated for all types of fires, and check to see that smoke detectors are working. 

If you’re planning to deep-fry your holiday turkey, do it outside, on a flat, level surface at least 10 feet from the house.

Candles

Candle fires occur at a rate that is four times higher during December than during any other month of the year. According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), four of the five most dangerous days of the year for residential candle fires are Christmas/Christmas Eve and New Year’s/New Year’s Eve, with the fifth being Halloween. 

To reduce this danger, maintain at least a foot of space between the candle and anything that can burn. Set candles on sturdy bases or cover with hurricane globes. Never leave flames unattended. Before bed, walk through each room to make sure candles are blown out. For atmosphere without worry, consider flame-less LED candles.

Christmas Trees

It takes less than 30 seconds for a dry tree to engulf a room in flames, according to the Building and Fire Research Laboratory of the National Institute for Standards and Technology. “They make turpentine out of pine trees,” says Tom Olshanski, spokesman for the USFA. “A Christmas tree is almost explosive when it goes.” 

To minimize risk, buy a fresh tree with intact needles, get a fresh cut on the trunk, and water it every day. A well-watered tree is almost impossible to ignite. Keep the tree away from heat sources, such as a fireplace or radiator, and out of traffic patterns. If you’re using live garlands and other greenery, keep them at least three feet away from heat sources.

No matter how well the tree is watered, it will start to dry out after about four weeks, Olshanski says, so take it down after the holidays. Artificial trees don’t pose much of a fire hazard; just make sure yours is flame-retardant.

Decorative Lights

Inspect light strings and throw out any with frayed or cracked wires and broken sockets. When decorating, don’t run more than three strings of lights end to end. “Stacking the plugs is much safer when you’re using a large quantity of lights,” explains Brian L. Vogt, director of education for holiday lighting firm Christmas Décor. Extension cords should be in good condition and UL-rated for indoor or outdoor use. Check outdoor receptacles to make sure the ground fault interrupters don’t trip. If they trip repeatedly, Vogt says, that’s a sign that they need to be replaced. 

When hanging lights outside, avoid using nails or staples, which can damage the wiring and increase the risk of a fire. Instead, use UL-rated clips or hangers. Take lights down within 90 days, says John Drengenberg, director of consumer safety for Underwriters Laboratories.  “If you leave them up year round, squirrels chew on them and they get damaged by weather.”

Kids Playing with Matches

The number of blazes — and, tragically, the number of deaths — caused by children playing with fire goes up significantly during the holidays. From January through March, 13% of fire deaths are the result of children playing with fire, the USFA reports; in December, that percentage doubles. So keep matches and lighters out of kids’ reach. “We tend to underestimate the power of these tools,” says Meri-K Appy, president of the nonprofit Home Safety Council. “A match or lighter could be more deadly than a loaded gun in the hands of a small child.”

Fireplaces

Soot can harden on chimney walls as flammable creosote, so before the fireplace season begins, have your chimney inspected to see if it needs cleaning. Screen the fireplace to prevent embers from popping out onto the floor or carpet, and never use flammable liquids to start a fire in the fireplace. Only burn seasoned wood — no wrapping paper.

When cleaning out the fireplace, put embers in a metal container and set them outside to cool for 24 hours before disposal. 

By following these tips, you reduce your risk of turning a celebratory time of year into tragedy.

Should you have any questions, or experience fire, water, storm or mold damage during the Holidays or beyond, call SERVPRO of The East End 24/7 and we will make it 'Like it never even happened. Our team of professionals has been serving the East End of Long Island for over 40 years. We can be reached at 631-653-9595. 

Holiday Cooking is a Leading Cause of Home Fires

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

Holiday Cooking is the leading cause of Home Fires

Cooking related incidents, especially around the Holidays, are the leading cause of home fires, and in most cases, they are fully preventable. Cooking fires cause more injuries than any other kind of fire. Injuries usually consist of burns or smoke inhalation.

November and December are the two months of the year when most cooking fires occur largely because of the holiday season.

Following are some safety tips you should take into account as we approach this Holiday Season:

Cooking fires are usually caused by one of the following reasons:

1 Grease or food that catch fire.

2. Faulty cooking equipment.

3. Combustible items placed too closely to a stove. 

Most of these incidents involve grease. When grease catches fires, it burns hot and fast. If it is not brought under control quickly, it spreads and causes extensive damage.

The easiest way to put out a cooking fire is to shut off the burner and place a pan lid over the pot to cut off the oxygen supply. Keep it covered until the pan cools. Taking the lid off too quickly may cause the fire to reignite. Throwing materials onto the pan such as salt, sugar, flour, baking soda or wet towels is too risky. This may spread the fire, which can lead to injury.

NEVER throw water on a grease fire.

The water will fall to the bottom of the pan, quickly convert to steam and push all the flaming liquid into the air, spreading the fire. This may also lead to serious burns on the person throwing the water on the fire.

If a fire extinguisher is available and the cook knows how to use it, they should attempt to put the fire out. Be sure to turn off the burner to remove the heat source before using the fire extinguisher.

Burning pans should never be moved.

It is tempting to pick up a pan on fire and place it in the sink or take it outside. This is not advisable as the pan is usually too hot to lift so when you grab it, you may drop it and cause the burning liquid to spread the fire.

Never leave food cooking on a stove unattended. 

Food left cooking unattended on a stove is the leading cause of cooking fires. This is not the time to read emails, take a shower, check the mailbox or visit your neighbors. The results can be fatal. When food is cooking, even at a slow simmer, it may be easy to forget how long the food has been cooking, or that you even started cooking to begin with. This may lead to the food burning, causing smoke, which then leads to smoke inhalation and fire. 

Maintain Cooking Equipment.

If a stove is having problems, it should be repaired as soon as the problem starts. Regular maintenance on the stove is a must. Keep combustible items away from the stove, and never on a stove, even when the stove is off.

Remove all pans from the stove and place in the sink, after cooking. 

Never leave dirty pans on the stove. If someone accidentally brushes up against a knob and turns on the stove or forgets to shut off the burner, there is nothing to catch fire. Pets are also known to jump on stoves and lick pans when no one is around and in the process they may also turn on a burner.

If food catches fire in the oven, the oven should be shut off and the door kept closed. If you open the oven door, you introduce more oxygen and the fire spreads. If a fire extinguisher is available, try using it after shutting off the oven and closing the door until the fire is completely exterminated. 

Children should never be near the stove when food is cooking. Create a three-foot “kid-free zone” around the stove. Place tape on the floor so children know the area to stay behind while food is cooking.

In the event of a cooking fire that cannot be controlled, leave the home and go to a safe meeting place outside and then call 9-1-1. Never attempt to go back inside the home once you have left.

Be sure to install, maintain and regularly check fire and smoke alarms. This way, if a fire occurs, you have adequate warning and know when to safely escape. 

We hope these tips help you have a safe and Happy Holiday Season. Should you have any questions, need assistance, or encounter an emergency, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595. We are here to help 24/7 with any and all of your emergency restoration and cleaning needs.

At SERVPRO of The East End, we have been proudly serving our community for over 40 years and will continue to do so. Our trained IICRC technicians have the knowledge, training and expertise as well as state-of-the-art equipment to make it 'Like it never even happened'. 

A Primer on Puff Backs

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The East End is available 24/7/365 to make it 'Like it never even happened'. Call us for all of your Cleaning & Restoration needs.

As the crisp days of autumn herald in the longer, frostier days and nights of another Northeastern Winter, many of us shift from retiring the air conditioners to turning up the thermostats on our heating units. For some, turning the heat on for the first time in the season calls attention to problems with the furnace and we may end up experiencing a “puff back.”

How Does a Puff Back Occur?

A puff back happens when an oil burner doesn't immediately ignite and oil fumes are allowed to build up before ignition. This results in an explosion similar to what happens when a car backfires.  It may also occur from a buildup of debris, causing an explosion when the furnace turns on.  In either case, the explosion forces soot and debris through the furnace or the boiler's exhaust system and into your home or business.  The problem is worse with forced hot air systems as the heating ducts spread black soot into every corner of your home, with the same efficiency that they spread heat throughout your property.

Fact #1: Most puff back cleanups are covered by insurance. And the professionals at SERVPRO of The East End can clean it all up "Like it never even happened.” Our customers often tell us that their properties look and smell cleaner than it ever did before!

During a puff back event, oil based soot typically covers all areas of the property including drapes, bedding, furniture, clothing, cabinetry, ceilings, walls and floors, all of which is extremely difficult to remove. In most instances, you will know that you’ve had a puff back! But there may be times when it is harder to detect because the soot coverage can range from a light dusting to a concentrated dark appearance especially on flat surfaces like counter tops. While you may be tempted to clean the affected area yourself, we don’t recommend you do that as the "dust" will likely re-appear hours afterwards. There may or may be a strong odor in the affected rooms.  Don’t be fooled that the dust is only where you see it. It travels everywhere that the air does—into every nook and cranny. Sometimes you will find what you think are black “spider webs” in the corners of a room. These marks are actually a collection of the sticky soot. At SERVPRO of The East End, we have the appropriate equipment, knowledge, experience and training to make it ‘Like it never even happened”.

There are many reasons puff backs happen. These vary from the age of the burner, to maintenance and/or malfunction issues.

Fact # 2: The cost to repair a furnace will NOT likely be covered by insurance. 

Puff backs create an unhealthy environment for everyone and you should not touch or breathe the soot or particles that are floating through the air and landing on the surfaces of your property. Like the exhaust from a car – these particles can be a carcinogenic for us and our loved ones to be breathing in.  It's especially unhealthy for young children the elderly and pets.

Fact #3: Most oil companies can also inspect and service the boiler at your property, which greatly reduces the chances of a puff back. However, there is no guarantee against such an occurrence.

10 things you should do after a puff back:

1. Limit movement in the home or business to prevent soot particles from becoming embedded in the upholstery and carpets.
2. Keep hands clean so you do not spread the damage further.
3. Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
4. Once the electricity is off, empty your refrigerator and freezer and prop the doors open.
5. Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
6. Wash your houseplants on both sides of the leaves.
7. Tape double layers of cheesecloth over your air duct registers.
8. Throw away all exposed food.
9. Call a repairman to fix the malfunctioning furnace
10. Call SERVPRO of The East End to clean up the soot and chemicals.

5 things you should NOT do after a puff back:

1. Don't attempt to wash any walls, wallpaper or painted surfaces. Don't shampoo your carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
2. Don’t use standard cleaning products that may cause further damage and may not get rid of the oil residue, toxins and odors.
3. Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
4. Don't turn on ceiling fans or increase air circulation as this will only spread the soot around.
5. Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor. 

ABOUT SERVPRO of The East End

If you have experienced a puff back or fire damage in your home or business, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End to restore your property to be ‘Faster to any size disaster’ and make it 'Like it never even happened.' Our team of IICRC trained and certified professionals are available 24/7 365 days a week. We will treat your property, family and employees with the utmost of compassion, respect and consideration, and work quickly and efficiently to minimize damage and cost. We work with insurance companies and are regularly recommended by local HVAC Companies. We have been proudly serving our community in mitigating fire, mold, storm and water damage on the East End of Long Island for over 40 years. 

Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 for all of your fire, mold, storm and water damage needs.

National Fire Prevention Week October 7-13th 2018. Look. Listen. Learn.

10/4/2018 (Permalink)

The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) has announced that the theme for this year’s Fire Prevention Week is "Look. Listen. Learn. Be Aware - Fire Can Happen Anywhere.”

The campaign identifies three basic and essential steps we can take to reduce the likelihood of having a fire–and how to be prepared in the event there is one.

“LOOK” for places fire could start. Take a good look around your home and business. Identify potential fire hazards and see what you can do to reduce or eliminate them. 

“LISTEN” for the sound of the smoke alarm. You may only have minutes to safely escape once a smoke alarm sounds. 

“LEARN” two ways out of every room. Make sure all the doors and windows leading outside open easily and are free of clutter providing quick and easy access to get out. 

Other Suggestions Include:

Home Fire Escape Plan

Home fire escape planning and drills are an essential part of fire safety. A home fire escape plan needs to be developed and practiced before a fire strikes. This plan should include:

• Two exits from every room in the house – usually a door and a window
• Properly installed and functioning smoke alarms
• A meeting place outside, in front of the home, where everyone will meet after they exit
• A call to 9-1-1 or the local emergency number from a cell phone or a neighbor’s phone

Smoke Alarms

• Smoke alarms detect and alert people to a fire in the early stages. Smoke alarms can mean the difference between life and death in a fire.
• Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half
• Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month, using the test button.
• Make sure everyone in the home understands the sound of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond.

Cooking

• Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries. The leading cause of kitchen fires is unattended cooking.
• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, boiling, grilling or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly and stay in the home.
• Keep anything that can catch fire away from your stove top.

Heating

• Heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fires during the winter months.
• Space heaters are the type of equipment most often involved in home heating equipment fires.
• All heaters need space. Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet (1 meter) away from heating equipment.
• Have a 3-foot (1-meter) ‘Kid-free zone’ around open fires and space heaters.
• Purchase and use only portable space heaters listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
• Have a qualified professional install heating equipment.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional.

For more information about Fire Prevention Week, fun activities educating kids, events and videos, visit the National Fire Protection Association website: http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week-2.

ABOUT SERVPRO of The East End

When fire strikes, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End to restore your property to 'Like it never even happened.' Our team of IICRC trained and certified professionals are available 24/7 365 days a week to be 'Faster to any size disaster'. We will treat your property, family and employees with the utmost of compassion, respect and consideration, and work quickly and efficiently to minimize damage and cost. We have been proudly serving our community in mitigating fire, mold, storm and water damage on the East End of Long Island for over 40 years. 

Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 for all of your fire, mold, storm and water damage needs.

Fires Don't Have to Burn

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

Fires in the home or workplace may occur from something as simple as an overloaded socket.

Fires can happen anywhere at anytime in the workplace or the home. Home fires are most commonly caused from cooking, candles, careless smoking, space heaters or dirty chimneys. Fires may also erupt from an overloaded outlet or extension cord. 

When it comes to fires in the workplace, the issue, as in the home, is often general negligence. Negligence often refers to leaving food in the microwave too long, leaving hot drinks where they may be spilled on electrical wires, and as in the home, overloading sockets or extension cords.

Most of these fires can be avoided by keeping a vigilant eye on things and regularly checking and maintaining appliances, extension cords and sockets, as well as keeping both home and work environments clean and free of clutter. As well, it helps to prepare for potential fires by keeping fire extinguishers, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms in high risk areas throughout the house and workplace. Where appropriate, especially in the work environment, think about having fire sprinkler systems installed. As well, make sure family, friends and employees are aware of safety precautions involved to prevent potential fires. 

If your home or business does suffer a fire damage, puff back, water damage, mold damage or bio-hazard event, SERVPRO of The East End is ready 24/7 to be 'Faster to any size disaster' Our team is IICRC trained and certified to make it 'Like it never even happened'. And we will treat your property, family and employees with the utmost of compassion, respect and consideration.

Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595. 

Fire & Smoke Damage

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

To prevent or remediate fire damage in your home or business, Call SERVPRO of The East End

Fire and Smoke damage can be especially devastating to your home or business. Every hour spent restoring your business back to pre-fire condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If your business experiences a fire loss, call the fire and water damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of The East End, and we'll respond immediately to get you back to business.

According to the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning & Restoration Certification), the real damage sets in and costs are just beginning to mount after the fire trucks leave. That's when our work begins at SERVPRO of The East End. Getting to work as quickly and efficiently as possible, we work hard to returning your home or business to preloss condition. You don't want to trust your greatest investment to anyone else. 

At SERVPRO of The East End, our trained and certified IICRC technicians are 'Faster to any size disaster'to take control and get your business or home back up and running 'Like it never even happened'. We have been proudly serving our community in mitigating fire, mold, storm and water damage on the East End of Long Island for over 40 years. 

Call SERVPRO of The East End at 631-653-9595 for all of your fire, mold, storm and water damage needs. 

The Importance of Keeping Your Chimney Clean

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Keeping your chimney clean may prevent fire damage from your home.

At SERVPRO of The East End, we know about the lovely warm glow a fireplace may add to the ambiance of any home. Relaxing in front of a crackling fireplace in your East End home on a cold winter day is a wonderful way to wind down with loved ones on a weekend. 

There is nothing more important than keeping your family safe. To help keep those home fires burning safely, it's important to make sure your chimney is cleaned periodically. Chimney cleaning can help a fireplace stay in good shape and it will reduce the risk of a fire breaking out in your home. Additionally, the chimney allows smoke, fumes and dangerous toxins to escape your home through its ventilation system. Read on for some helpful tips on this subject.

Inspect the Brick

All chimneys should be completely cleaned at least once a year. Cleaning is important to make sure your chimney is in good working order. A homeowner should also perform an inspection on their own. This can help identify potential problems that must be addressed as soon as possible.

It's a good idea to bring a flashlight and have a good look at the floor of the fireplace. All the ashes in the chimney accumulate here. The flooring needs to be kept in good shape to make sure the fire can be turned on. Note any problems with the brick surrounding it. The bricks used in a fireplace are more heat tolerant than ordinary bricks. They need to be maintained to prevent a fire in the fireplace from spreading to other areas of the home. If a single brick is out of place, this can make the rest of the chimney far less functional.

Have a Look Up

After having a good look at the area surrounding the fireplace, it's a good idea to have a look at the rest of the chimney. Put on some old clothes and get in the area surrounding the fireplace. Have a look at the chimney area. You should see if there's any obstruction or any other issues. Small birds and rodents often find themselves stuck or you could have a thick layer of creosote and soot sticking to the flue and masonry inside the chimney. When this gets too thick, all it takes is a spark and you have a chimney fire on your hands.

According to the National Fire Prevention Association, 30 percent of home fires are caused by chimney fires. Be sure your home is not one of them. Have your chimney cleaned regularly. If you are having problems with smoke damage in your home, call SERVPRO of The East End At SERVPRO of The East End to make it 'Like it never even happened.'

Space Heaters Need Their Space

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Use safety precautions when using portable space heaters

During the cold winter months, many of us have the mind set that keeping our home or office temperature lower while adding space heaters will save money. Whether that makes sense depends on several variables. One thing that does not vary though, is that space heaters, when not used properly, can be dangerous.

Space heaters should be kept at a minimum distance of three feet away, but are often used near beds or under desks and are altogether too close to fabrics, papers or other flammable materials. Not considering this hazard can lead to unexpected fires that spread quickly. 

Keeping the following safety measures in mind can avoid potential tragedies:

Safety First

No matter what type or brand of space heater you opt to use, following these safety tips from the NFPA will reduce the chances of fire and injury:

• Keep anything that can burn, including bedding, furniture, and curtains at least 3 feet away from a space heater.
• Have a three-foot "kid-free zone" around space heaters and never use a space heater in a child's bedroom.
• Run power cords on top of carpet and step over them to avoid abrading the cord. Do not use extension cords.
• Turn off space heaters when going to bed or leaving a room.
• Don't use a space heater in a damp or wet area unless it's specifically made for that purpose.
• Turn space heaters off before leaving the room or going to bed.
• Never put a space heater on a countertop unless it's specifically designed for it.
• Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and test monthly.
• Only purchase "UL Listed" heaters which display the UL mark on their label. This is an independent organization which tests for safety.
• Don't use gas- or oil-burning space heaters indoors, only outdoors or in spaces open to the outdoors like tents or porches.
• Read and follow all manufacturer's directions for your space heater.

We are always here to help. In the event you do need fire damage restoration, we are there 'Faster to any size disaster' to make it 'Like it never even happened.'

Four Ways To Remediate Your Property After Fire Damage

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

Fire may cause more damage than meets the eye.

When something drastic happens in our homes or businesses, such as a fire, we aren’t always thinking of the next steps involved to repairing the damage done. This is when SERVPRO of The East End is often called in to make sure that the fire remediation process is executed as efficiently as possible and the property is brought back to its original state. 

Fire remediation is the process of cleaning up the debris and damage caused after a fire occurs. According to enlightenme.com, there are four main steps that a restoration company can take to remediate the fire damage on your property.

1.     Drying the home

Water damage is one of the biggest concerns following a fire. As the water sits, it collects bacteria, contaminants and becomes the perfect place for mold to grow. SERVPRO of The East End has the proper equipment to dry out the area. We have dehumidifiers, large fans and other machines that quickly circulate the air, filter it out and thoroughly clean your home or business. 

2.     Cleaning the HVAC system

If an HVAC system is present on your property, it is a strong possibility that the filters or coils in the equipment will get clogged from the soot and debris caused by the fire damage. Depending on the severity of the damage, we may have to replace the filters or perform extensive repairs.

3.     Rebuilding the damaged structure           

The structure of a property is very important to keeping your family and employees safe. If the structure is damaged, it may need to be rebuilt, restored or replaced. We can assist in the steps involved to making sure your property's structure is safely restored or rebuilt.

4.     Removing the last of the debris

Any contents that are unable to be salvaged will need to be removed to make sure that they don’t contaminate the rest of the home or workplace. Some contents may be difficult to restore back to their original state, but this is also something that SERVPRO of The East End is able to assist with. We make sure that everything is cleaned properly before putting it back into the home or workplace to ensure that there is not debris contaminating other belongings on the property. 

When fire strikes, you can trust SERVPRO of The East End to restore your property to 'Like it never even happened.' Our team of IICRC trained and certified professionals are available 24/7 365 days a week to be 'Faster to any size disaster'. We can be reached by calling 631-653-9595.

Source - http://enlightenme.com/fire-damage-remediation/ 

SERVPRO of The East End for Smoke and Soot Cleanup

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage training and expertise 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 The East End 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 – 631-653-9595

What Is The Restoration Process For Fire Damage?

12/8/2016 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be extremely devastating to a home or business. Emergency responders will be quick to act in order to put out the fire, but possibly leaving behind significant water damage. The initial destruction that is done only becomes magnified by lingering smoke and soot. The traumatic experience can leave business owners and families desperate for help. Certified restoration professionals can help restore a house or office building back to its original condition.

An assessment of the fire damage should be conducted as soon as possible. The process of restoration is very involved and requires time and diligence. The assessment will determine what type of harm occurred and how to proceed with the restoration process. In the procedure of extinguishing the fire, emergency responders will use either water or dry chemicals, which compound the initial destruction caused by the fire. The lingering soot and smoke needs to be attended to because both can cause quick deterioration and corrosion of the building. Additionally, smoke also leaves behind a pervasive odor that is noxious and can be dangerous to breathe in. Removal of smoke odor is a multiphase process that begins during the initial clean up. It is imperative to begin the restoration process within the first few hours to stabilize and preserve as much as possible. The following steps should be conducted by an experienced professional who has knowledge about fire damage.

Step 1. The initial clean up should occur as soon as possible. The harm caused by soot and water can lead to more severe problems down the road. It is important that these issues are addressed immediately. Professionals can assist home and business owners with inventory services. Everything affected that can be restored should be removed and thoroughly cleaned.

Step 2.  Any walls, roofs, or windows that were affected will need to be boarded up and tarped off. This is to prevent further damage and ensure a measure of security is in place.
 
Step 3. Water must be removed as soon as possible to avoid additional issues, including mold growth. Professionals will have high-quality water vacuums, dehumidifiers and air movers that can remove almost all of the water and speed up the drying process. The dehumidifiers help prevent floors and walls from warping.

Step 4. Cleaning and sanitizing all restorable items to prevent staining. Certified technicians have access to professional grade restoration products that prevent soot from staining various items.

One of the most difficult aspects about fire damage is the lingering effect of smoke odor. This type of odor is difficult to remove because it can affect every aspect of a building, including wood frames and HVAC systems. One of the techniques that is used by professionals to remove the odor is called thermal fogging. Thermal fogging is highly effective because it mimics the size of smoke particles. The particles produced by thermal fogging attach themselves onto the smoke particles. By doing so, the smoke particles are no longer recognized as an odorous element. Thermal fogging is a popular technique because it many times completely eliminates the problem. Professionals will use thermal fogging in conjunction with other equipment and processes to ensure that the odors are eliminated.

The final step in the restoration process is replacing and repairing anything that couldn’t be cleaned or restored to its previous condition. Drywall, paint, and carpets may have to be installed if the fire damage was severe. By understanding the restoration process following a fire, home and business owners can easily see the need for hiring certified professionals to handle the task effectively and expediently.

6 Steps To Follow After A Fire Damage

11/21/2016 (Permalink)

Safety is a primary concern when dealing with fire damage. Returning to normal may seem impossible, but thankfully it isn’t. After calling the fire department, home and business owners should be aware that the building may be dangerous. Entering the building should be avoided since the environment could be toxic. No one should enter the house or office until the emergency responders approve that it is safe. Roofs and floors could be unsafe and could possibly cave in without notice. Smoke, soot and water are problems that need to be dealt with as soon as possible. Home and business owners should take the following steps following a fire:

• Contact local disaster relief. In some cases, relatives will open their home for their families or friends in an emergency. If that is not an option, local services can help families find shelter, food and medication
• Contact the insurance company. The insurance company can help home and business owners understand what they must do in order to file a claim and receive compensation.
• Utilities should not be turned on if the emergency responders have shut them off.  They could be extremely hazardous and should only be used if a professional says it is safe.
• Call the landlord or mortgage company and inform them about the situation
• Call the police and inform them that the office or home will be vacant until the building is restored.
• Receipts should be saved to provide information to the insurance company and to claim losses on income tax forms.

Fire damage can be severe, but restoration is possible. It is important to proceed with caution to prevent any further damage. With experienced restoration professionals and some time, a house or office can often be restored to its original condition.

Article written by: IICRC