Top Fire Safety Advice

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

Top Fire Safety Advice

Did you know that if a fire breaks out in your home, you may only have two minutes to get out? Early warning from a working smoke alarm combined with a fire escape plan that has been exercised on a regular basis can save lives in the event of a fire. Find out what else you can do to protect your loved ones!

Install smoke alarms on each level of your home, as well as inside bedrooms and sleeping places outside.

Smoke alarms should be tested once a month. Replace the batteries if they don't work.

Discuss a fire escape plan with your entire family and practice it twice a year.

GET OUT, STAY OUT, and CALL FOR HELP if you have a fire in your home.

Work together

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Even the most well-prepared home is in serious jeopardy in the event that neighboring houses ignite. If you live in a densely populated area, your home is ultimately only as fire-proof as your neighborhood’s weakest links. “Some people are closer than 100 feet to the next neighbor, and you don’t necessarily have control over that,” Steinberg says. “In that case, the stuff in my yard or in my house is gonna affect whether or not your house ignites.”

Community-organized fire preparation can thus be as important as what you do on your own property. The U.S. Forest Service has a program that helps build "fire-adapted communitites and more than 1,400 sites nationwide have implemented community-level wildfire action plans under NFPA's Firewise recognition program

https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/5-ways-protect-your-home-wildfires

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Secure the perimeter

12/6/2021 (Permalink)

Once you’ve focused on protecting your roof and keeping embers at bay, you should start to consider the five feet surrounding your house. After all, something catching fire alongside a home can be as disastrous as a mattress burning within it. “From the fire’s point of view, if it’s attached to or touching the house, it’s part of the house,” Steinberg says. Firewood stacks and propane tanks are an obvious danger—the NFPA advises moving them at least 30 feet away from the house. If you have any materials from building projects lying against the house, move those away, too. 

Those tips may seem obvious, but homeowners often miss less conspicuous combustibles. “Anything organic is a fuel source,” Steinberg says. Mulch is a common culprit, as embers can easily set fire to the organic fertilizers that often line house-adjacent planting beds. The NFPA recommends replacing any organic mulch within five feet of your house with gravel or stone mulch products. Plants containing oils and resins, like juniper and pine, are also particularly dangerous. In general, make sure to regularly water and maintain any plant life near the house.

The NFPA recommends separating wood fences from the house with a masonry or metal barrier. After all, if wooden features attached to a home ignite, they will carry fire to the main structure. If you have a wooden deck, make sure to clear it of debris, and to regularly clean out any dead vegetation underneath.

https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/5-ways-protect-your-home-wildfires

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Create Defensible Space Zones

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Zone 0: 0 feet to 5 feet

The Immediate Zone is closest to your house and the most vulnerable — it should be most aggressively maintained for fire resistance.

• Remove any combustible outdoor furniture. Replace jute or fiber door mats with fire resistant materials.
• Remove or relocate all combustible materials, including garbage and recycling containers, lumber and trash
• Clean all fallen leaves and needles regularly. Repeat often during fire season.
• Remove tree limbs that extend into this zone. No vegetation is recommended within five feet of structures.
• Do not store firewood, lumber or combustibles under decks or overhangs.
• Use only inorganic, non-combustible mulches such as stone or gravel.

Zone 1: 5 feet to 30 feet

• The Intermediate Zone may include buildings, structures, decks, etc. Keep this area “Lean, Clean, and Green.”
• Remove dead plants, grass dry leaves and pine needles from your yard, roof and rain gutters.
• Trim trees regularly to keep branches a minimum of 10 feet from other trees.
• Remove branches that hang over your roof, and keep dead branches 10 feet away from your chimney.
• Relocate wood piles into Zone 2, or at least 30 feet from any structures.
• Remove vegetation and items that could catch fire from around and under decks.

Zone 2: 30 feet to 100 feet

The Extended Zone may even include space more than 100 feet away if required by steep slopes, nearby vegetation conditions, and/or your local fire department.

• Cut or mow annual grass down to a maximum height of four inches.
• Remove fallen leaves, needles, twigs, bark, cones and small branches. However, they may be permitted to a depth of three inches if erosion control is an issue.

Check with your local fire department for any additional defensible space or weed abatement ordinances.

https://www.farmers.com/catastrophe/wildfire-defense/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Following a Disaster

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Should you become separated from family members, use your communication plan. Letting family and friends know you are safe and well can bring them peace of mind — you can register yourself or search for loved ones at the Red Cross’s safeandwell.org

If you are evacuated, return home only when officials say it is safe. If you cannot return home and have immediate housing needs, text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area (example: shelter 12345).

Please stay alert and away from dangers like:

• Damaged roads or bridges
• Broken or damaged power lines and gas lines
• Broken glass, splintered wood and other sharp, dangerous objects
• Gas fumes (open windows for ventilation, and wait to use lighters or matches)
• Flood residue contaminated with sewage or chemicals

https://www.farmers.com/catastrophe/wildfire-defense/

SERVPRO of South Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.

As a rule, never do anything that might risk your and your family’s health and safety.

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

As a rule, never do anything that might risk your and your family’s health and safety.

It’s easy to be under the impression that once a fire has been extinguished and the smoke has subsided that it’s safe to stay in your home. As discussed in this article, the real problem in a house with smoke and fire damage is not what’s visible but rather what’s invisible.

A house fire might cause structural damage to your home and disturb asbestos and lead. Even when there are no visible signs of smoke, there might be toxic smoke particles present in your home. 

Use a professional fire restoration company to clean and decontaminate your home. A certified industrial hygienist can test the air quality to make sure you’re living in a safe environment, free of toxic smoke particles.

https://www.avnergat.com/is-it-safe-to-live-in-a-house-with-smoke-fire-damage/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Not all fires start or burn the same way. The differences between electrical, spontaneous combustion, chemical, oil and gas fires are significant:

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Not all fires start or burn the same way. The differences between electrical, spontaneous combustion, chemical, oil and gas fires are significant:

• Oil and gas fires often involve flammable or combustible liquids such as natural gas or class II and class IIIB combustible liquids. Class II combustible liquids include fuel oils such as kerosene and have a flashpoint (the temperature at which a fire can ignite) above 100°F. Class IIIB combustible liquids have a flashpoint of above 200°F and include animal oils, glycerin, hydraulic fluids and vegetable oils.

According to the NFPA, every year more than 50,000 fires start as the result of flammable gas while more than 160,000 fires start as the result of flammable or combustible liquid. Combined, flammable and combustible liquids and gases cause more than $2.1 billion worth of property damage and more than 600 deaths annually.

https://www.thehartford.com/about-us/junior-fire-marshal/the-power-of-fire

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Smoke Damage

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke consists of heated particles and gases. It’s impossible to predict the exact composition of smoke as there are too many variables. A typical house fire might produce hundreds of chemicals.

According to WebMD: “The products being burned, the temperature of the fire, and the amount of oxygen available to the fire all make a difference in the type of smoke produced.”

Signs of smoke inhalation might include coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, headaches, red eyes, mental confusion, and having difficulty breathing.

Although smoke can dissipate quickly, it’s very invasive. It can creep into HVAC vents, electrical sockets, furnishings, insulation, etc.

Even if you can’t see any smoke in your house there could still be toxic smoke particles present which is a health risk.

People with heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes, as well as babies, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are more at risk when inhaling smoke particles.

https://www.avnergat.com/is-it-safe-to-live-in-a-house-with-smoke-fire-damage/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Know Your Way Out

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

An escape plan can help every member of a family get out of a burning house. The idea is to get outside quickly and safely. Smoke from a fire can make it hard to see where things are, so it's important to learn and remember the different ways out of your home. How many exits are there? How do you get to them from your room? It's a good idea to have your family draw a map of the escape plan.

It's possible one way out could be blocked by fire or smoke, so you'll want to know where other ones are. And if you live in an apartment building, you'll want to know the best way to the stairwell or other emergency exits.

Safety Steps

If you're in a room with the door closed when the fire breaks out, you need to take a few extra steps:

• Check to see if there's heat or smoke coming in the cracks around the door. (You're checking to see if there's fire on the other side.)
• If you see smoke coming under the door — don't open the door!
• If you don't see smoke — touch the door. If the door is hot or very warm — don't open the door!
• If you don't see smoke — and the door is not hot — then use your fingers to lightly touch the doorknob. If the doorknob is hot or very warm — don't open the door!

If the doorknob feels cool, and you can't see any smoke around the door, open the door very carefully and slowly. When you open the door, if you feel a burst of heat or smoke pours into the room, quickly shut the door and make sure it is really closed. If there's no smoke or heat when you open the door, go toward your escape route exit.

https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/fire-safety.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

From sawdust to paint thinner, workshops are filled with fire hazards. Keep these fire safety tips in mind to avoid workshop fires.

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

From sawdust to paint thinner, workshops are filled with fire hazards. Keep these fire safety tips in mind to avoid workshop fires.

It's a good idea to have a charged fire extinguisher in an easily accessible part of the workshop. Keep in mind the following safety tips too – so the extinguisher will never have to be used. Dispose of sawdust at least once a day. It's important to keep the shavings in an airtight container because they're extremely flammable.

• Rinse and hang rags outside to dry after using them to apply solvents, finishes and other chemicals. Materials soaked with such chemicals may spontaneously combust if piled together.
• Store volatile chemicals – such as paint thinner – in a fireproof locked metal cabinet.
• When working with a torch, place a metal plate at least 1/8 inch thick between the torch and any combustible surface.
• Place fire extinguishers at every exit. Fire extinguishers come in different kinds, each of which is able to extinguish specific kinds of fires. Type A fires involve natural combustibles such as wood, trash and paper. Type B fires involve liquids or grease. Type C fires are electrical fires. The sticker on an extinguisher indicates whether it can handle one, two or all three kinds of fires.

To put out a fire, remember the acronym PASS:
Pull: Pull the pin to unlock the extinguisher's operating lever.
Aim: Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
Squeeze: Squeeze the extinguisher's trigger.
Sweep: Sweep the extinguisher from side to side, across the base of the fire.

https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/maintenance-and-repair/preparedness/fire-safety-tips

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

What to do in a fire

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Extinguish the fire if possible

If the fire has just sparked—for example, a pan catches fire on the stove—you may be able to contain it.

Grab your fire extinguisher and remember to PASS pull the pin, aim at the base of the flames, squeeze the extinguisher handle, and sweep from side to side until the fire is extinguished. Make sure that the fire is completely out and not still smoldering.

Crawl beneath the flames to escape

Fire produces smoke and poisonous gases that can cause lightheadedness or loss of consciousness if inhaled—both of which can cause issues if you’re trying to get out of a burning building. To escape a fire and its fumes, crawl to the closest exit, remembering that it may be a window. Staying low to the ground will help protect you from inhaling smoke and toxic gases.

https://www.safewise.com/home-security-faq/house-fire/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

House Fire Recovery Steps

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

Find a Place to Stay

Once you know what resources your insurance company will provide, find a place to rent, or move in with relatives while your home is being repaired. Contact your children's school and, if possible, make arrangements for them to continue in the same classes even if you must temporarily move out of the school district. Most districts will make allowances for emergencies such as a fire. Keep receipts for everything you spend in conjunction with your fire recovery. Your insurance company may reimburse you for some of the expenses, and you may be able to deduct others from your income tax.

Take Inventory

Your insurance company will want an inventory of everything that was lost or damaged during the fire. Your agent can provide you with an inventory sheet. Review any inventory you made prior to the fire and make additions to it. If you need to reconstruct a list of your belongings from memory, review photographs and video to refresh your memory, and ask friends or relatives who have been in your home to help you compile your list. Review old credit card statements and bank records to determine what you paid for your belongings.

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/house-fire-recovery-steps-52922.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Preliminary Assessment

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

Preliminary Assessment

During smoke damage restoration, homeowners should maintain good air circulation in the kitchen. Turn on exhaust fans, open doors, and windows. Often an inexpensive ozone generator will also help to get rid of any lingering smoke smells. If the smoke damage is considerable and would need professional repair, you may need to get in touch with your insurance carrier and inquire about filing a claim or contact a professional fire and water restoration company. Make a preliminary assessment on the surfaces to be cleaned. If it has a stain or semi-gloss paint cover, there is a chance that it can be cleaned, washed, and restored easily. Walls painted with flat paint may be difficult to clean completely. In such cases, you should clean as much soot and residue as possible from the surface and then repaint. Wallpaper may have to be replaced. Small fires in the kitchen may result in serious damage that can lead to costly repairs. Although some remedial work can be done on your own, it is still a wise move to seek the advice of experts regarding your problem.

https://creativehomemaking.com/cleaning/kitchen/kitchen-smoke-damage/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

5 Easy Ways to Prevent a Grease Fire

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

1. Have a class ABC fire extinguisher in your kitchen. It is recommended to have at least three fire extinguishers in your home, in the kitchen, garage and main living area.
2. The most common reason for a grease fire is leaving a hot pan unattended. Keep your eye on it.
3. If grease is smoking, it is too hot. The flash point of a grease fire is 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease will smoke furiously before it ignites, so if you notice smoke turn the heat down immediately.
4. Keep cookbooks, towels, paper towels and anything combustible away from the stove. A grease fire can quickly turn into a bigger fire if it catches onto other combustibles.
5. If your pan does catch fire, the best thing to do is to smoother it. Use an oven mitt and place the lid on top of the pan. Never throw water on the fire or try to run it to the sink or outside.

https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/rooms-and-spaces/kitchen/5-easy-ways-to-prevent-a-grease-fire

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Install Smoke Detectors

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

Over the years, smoke detectors have saved countless lives, and they provide an early warning that can give you and your family enough time to escape. According to the NFPA almost 3 of every 5 home fire deaths occurred in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

You should have working smoke detectors installed on every level of your home. The NFPA recommends installing one inside every sleeping room and an additional smoke detector outside each sleeping area. Wire all of them together so if one goes off, they all go off. Replace these smoke alarms every 10 years.

The NFPA also recommends you have a smoke alarm in the kitchen. However, it needs to be at least 10 feet away from cooking appliances to minimize false alarms.

It’s also smart to install Smoke detectors that detect carbon monoxide. That’s especially important if you have a wood stove or fireplace you use in the winter.

https://www.moneycrashers.com/home-fire-safety-protection-tips-house-fire-insurance/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

COOKING FIRES

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

Fast Facts

• Cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home fire injuries
• Home fires are more likely to start in the kitchen than any other room in your home
• Unattended cooking causes nearly 90 percent of all kitchen fires.
• Cooking was the cause of 36% of all structure fires in 2002
• The number of home fires the American Red Cross has responded to has risen 10% since 2000.
• Every two and a half hours someone is killed in a home fire. In a typical year, 20,000 people are injured in home fires
• Having a working smoke alarm reduces one’s chances of dying in a fire by nearly half.

https://www.redcross.org/content/dam/redcross/atg/PDF_s/Preparedness___Disaster_Recovery/Disaster_Preparedness/Home_Fire/FireCookingFactSheet.pdf

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Use Space Heaters Safely

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

Portable space heaters can provide a convenient way to heat cold or drafty rooms in your home. However, they pose a significant fire risk. The CPSC estimates that space heaters cause 1,100 fires per year, resulting in 50 deaths. The NFPA reports that space heaters account for 43% of home heating fires and 85% of associated deaths.

To use a space heater safely, follow these tips:

• Give It Space. Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from your space heater. The heater also needs to be at least 3 feet away from curtains, furniture, beds, and papers.
• Don’t Use Extension Cords. Space heaters should always plug directly into the wall. Never use an extension cord or power strip when operating a space heater.
• Don’t Run It All Night. Never run your space heater while you’re asleep or away from home.
• Check the Cord Often. Check the cord and plug of your space heater frequently to make sure there are no signs of melting or burning. You also need to check the wall outlet and faceplate for any signs of excess heat. Unplug the space heater and touch the outlet’s faceplate with your hand to make sure it is cool to the touch. If it is warm or hot, discontinue use and call an electrician.

https://www.moneycrashers.com/home-fire-safety-protection-tips-house-fire-insurance/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Did you know

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that if a fire starts in your home, you may have as little as two minutes to escape? During a fire, early warning from a working smoke alarm plus a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives. Learn what else to do to keep your loved ones safe!

Top Tips for Fire Safety

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. 

Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, change the batteries.

Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.

If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

If a Fire Starts:

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

• Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher
• Remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL 9-1-1 or your local emergency phone number.
• Yell "Fire!" several times and go outside right away. If you live in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.
• If closed doors or handles are warm or smoke blocks your primary escape route, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to the touch.
• If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Close doors behind you.
• If smoke, heat or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with doors closed. Place a wet towel under the door and call the fire department or 9-1-1. Open a window and wave a brightly colored cloth or flashlight to signal for help.
• Once you are outside, go to your meeting place and then send one person to call the fire department. If you cannot get to your meeting place, follow your family emergency communication plan.

If your clothes catch on fire:

• Stop what you’re doing.
• Drop to the ground and cover your face if you can.
• Roll over and over or back and forth until the flames go out. Running will only make the fire burn faster.

THEN:

Once the flames are out, cool the burned skin with water for three to five minutes. Call for medical attention.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/if-a-fire-starts.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Fire Escape Planning for Older Adults and People with Access or Functional Needs

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Escape Planning for Older Adults and People with Access or Functional Needs

• If you use a walker or wheelchair, check all exits to be sure you get through the doorways.
• Make any necessary accommodations – such as providing exit ramps and widening doorways – to facilitate an emergency escape.
• Speak to your family members, building manager or neighbors about your fire safety plan and practice it with them.
• Contact your local fire department's non-emergency line and explain your special needs. Ask emergency providers to keep your special needs information on file.
• Keep a phone near your bed and be ready to call 911 if a fire occurs.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year for all of your restoration needs.

Prevent Home Fires

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Prevent Home Fires

Home fires are preventable! The following are simple steps that each of us can take to prevent a tragedy.

Cooking

• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time turn off the stove.
• Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.
• Position barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep a fire extinguisher available.

Electrical and Appliance Safety

• Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
• If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
• Immediately shut off, then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to the touch and lights that flicker.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Bedrooms

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Bedrooms are the most common spot in the house for electrical fires to start—about 15% of residential electrical fires begin there. And these fires have a high potential for tragedy since they often happen when people are asleep.

These fires are often due to faulty or overtaxed wiring or malfunctioning lighting, but bedroom fires also start with cords, space heaters, or electric blankets. Bedding, carpeting, draperies, and other creature comforts of your bedroom are often the first items ignited in a fire.

Some tips for preventing fires in the bedroom:

• Quickly address any loose or otherwise unsafe-looking wall outlets.
• Replace extension cords, chargers, lighting cords, or other power cords as soon as they show signs of wear. If you can see the wires, it’s time for a replacement. You can have lighting shops rewire favorite lamps if the cord is worn out.
• Don’t overload outlets by plugging in too many devices, power strips, or extension cords. Unplug devices when they’re not in use or find different spots for them.
• Place space heaters at least three feet from anything that could catch fire.
• Kids often experiment with fire in secret spots like under their bed or in the closet, and 40% of structure fires started by children happen in the bedroom. Teach children not to play with matches or lighters, and help them understand how fire ignites and spreads.

https://www.safewise.com/blog/the-most-common-places-that-fires-occur-in-the-home/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Assess the Damage

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

With your insurance company appraiser, walk through the property and assess the damage. Note repairs that must be made and items that can be salvaged. If the home is a total loss, discuss your insurer's process for helping you rebuild the home. Most companies will remit payment jointly to you and your mortgage company. You'll need to negotiate with the mortgage company to receive payment.

Find a place to stay

Once you know what resources your insurance company will provide, find a place to rent, or move in with relatives while your home is being repaired. Contact your children's school and, if possible, make arrangements for them to continue in the same classes even if you must temporarily move out of the school district. Most districts will make allowances for emergencies such as a fire. Keep receipts for everything you spend in conjunction with your fire recovery. Your insurance company may reimburse you for some of the expenses, and you may be able to deduct others from your income tax.

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/house-fire-recovery-steps-52922.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Before a Fire

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

Create and Practice a Fire Escape Plan

In the event of a fire, remember that every second counts. Escape plans help you get out of your home quickly. Twice each year, practice your home fire escape plan. Some tips to consider when preparing this plan include:

• Find two ways to get out of each room in the event the primary way is blocked by fire or smoke.
• Make sure that windows are not stuck, screens can be taken out quickly and that security bars can be properly opened.
• Practice feeling your way out of the house in the dark or with your eyes closed.
• Teach children not to hide from firefighters.

Smoke Alarms

A working smoke alarm significantly increases your chances of surviving a deadly home fire.

• Replace batteries twice a year, unless you are using 10-year lithium batteries.
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement.
• Replace the entire smoke alarm unit every 10 years or according to manufacturer’s instructions.
• Never disable a smoke alarm while cooking – it can be a deadly mistake.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

What to do first

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Even small fires can cause severe damage and be extremely costly. That is why it is wise to contact the appropriate individuals to help you. If you have insurance, contact your insurance agent for suggestions and advice. If you rent your dwelling, the owner should be notified as soon as possible so that you can both assess the damage.

Consider contacting a professional fire restorer. They deal with problems similar to yours every day. If your insurance agent doesn't suggest someone, look in the yellow pages of the telephone directory under "Carpet and Upholstery Cleaners" or "Fire and Water Damage Restoration". Keep in mind most professional fire restorers will travel a certain distance to restore fire damaged property. Inquire about the experience the fire restorer has had and, if possible, secure some references of persons they have served. Usually, the professional fire restorer can provide helpful hints to prevent further damage, determine which items can be refurbished and estimate the cost of deodorizing and cleaning your home. Hiring a professional fire restorer can be costly, but the best way to remove smoke odor and soot is with the appropriate equipment and appropriate chemicals.

https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/gh145

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

What you can do

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

If possible, it makes sense to hire a professional restoration company that has the expertise and tools needed to do the cleanup correctly. There are a few steps you can take to help:

• Leave items that are covered in soot for the professionals to clean.
• Use dehumidifiers and fans to dry wet textiles as soon as possible. Place easy-to-move items, like clothing or cushions, outdoors in the sun to dry.
• Keep windows open to air the house out until the restoration company can work.
• Run the fan on the HVAC system constantly to move the air around. Replace the filter daily until soot is no longer visible on the filter.
• Cover clean items with plastic to prevent them from getting dirty while repairs are being made.

https://housemethod.com/maintenance/fire-damage-restoration/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

WHAT TO DO AFTER THE FIRE

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Leaving you home

• If you have to leave your home because the fire has left it unsafe, contact the local police. They can keep an eye on the property in your absence.
• Check with your insurance company to find out whether you are entitled to stay in hotel as part of a temporary housing clause in your policy, or how soon you might get an advance on your eventual insurance claim settlement.
• Provided it is safe to do so, try to locate the following to take with you:
  • Identification such as wallets and passports.
  • Vital medicines, such as blood pressure regulating drugs or insulin.
  • Eyeglasses, hearing aids, prosthetic devices or personal aids.
  • Valuables such as credit cards, cheque-books, insurance policies, savings account books, money and jewelry.

https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=312

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Professional fire damage restoration services

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

A fire damage restoration company specializes in helping people recover from fire damage. These companies offer a range of services, including:

• Securing the house. A restoration company can board up the house and place tarps on the roof immediately after the fire to prevent weather damage.
• Assessing the damage. They’ll inspect all the rooms to assess the damage done by fire, smoke, soot, and water.
• Water removal and drying. It’s important to dry out the house as quickly as possible to prevent mold and mildew from growing. The company will use air movers (giant fans) and dehumidifiers.
• Removing smoke and soot from surfaces. Restoration companies have specialized equipment for these tasks.
• Cleaning. They’ll use a variety of techniques to clean salvageable items.
• Restoration. If the company also has a license to do home improvements, they can make small repairs such as replacing wallboard and installing carpeting. They may also be able to perform larger jobs, such as rebuilding rooms.

https://housemethod.com/maintenance/fire-damage-restoration/

 SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Does my insurance cover fire damage?

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Does my insurance cover fire damage?

Fire damage is typically covered under a standard homeowner's insurance policy. Your coverage should cover structural damage as well as the expense of replacing personal belongings lost in the fire. The conditions of your policy will determine whether you are reimbursed at replacement value (the cost of replacing the lost item with a comparable piece) or at real cash value (the value of the used item now or its depreciated value).

Some people purchase fire damage insurance, which is an additional policy that covers the costs of replacing or repairing property above the amount covered by homeowner's insurance. Your homeowner's insurance policy may impose limits on what the insurer will reimburse you for specific products. For example, there could be a $1,000 limit on electronic reimbursement. If you have a lot of devices that were destroyed in the fire, your fire damage insurance may cover the full cost of replacing them.

Keep any receipts for money spent on fire rehabilitation or replacing goods destroyed in the fire. The insurance provider may request to examine these receipts in order to substantiate your claim.

https://housemethod.com/maintenance/fire-damage-restoration/

WHAT TO DO AFTER THE FIRE

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

What to do After the Fire

Cautions

• Household wiring which may have been water damaged should be checked by a licensed electrician before power is turned back on.
• Check for structural damage caused by the fire as roofs and floors may be weakened. The local Council's Building Inspector may be able to help.
• Food, drink and medicines exposed to heat, smoke or soot may be discarded in the appropriate manner.
• Refrigerators and freezers left unopened will hold their temperature for a short time. However do not attempt to refreeze thawed items.
• Fire and Rescue NSW will call for the services of the local gas, fuel and electricity suppliers to disconnect services before they leave the site.
• If a utility (gas, electricity or water) is disconnected, it is your responsibility to have the services checked and reconnected by a licensed trade person. Do not attempt to reconnect the service yourself.
• Start collecting receipts for any money you spend. These are important because you can use them to show the insurance company what money you have spent relating to your fire loss and also verifying losses claimed.

https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=312

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

What Does Smoke Damage do to a House?

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

What Does Smoke Damage do to a House?

Your homeowners insurance covers all types of fires and smoke damage. Coverage includes smoke and soot, ash, protein smoke, furnace soot, wet or dry smoke, plastic or rubber smoke, candle smoke, and removal, replacement, or repair of that smell of smoke, residue, and damaged property.

Wet Smoke Creeps into Crevices

Wet smoke damage needs quick action. It has a pungent odor and causes discoloration. It is thick, sticky, and smeary, which makes it hard to clean because it works into tiny crevices around the home. You will need specialized products and methods, but since your insurance will most likely pay, we recommend hiring a professional remediation service.

 Dry Smoke Odor Lasts

Imagine the smoke residue that you can blow away. That is dry smoke, and it is relatively easy to clean. It has smaller, non-smeary particles. The odor is more bearable than wet smoke, yet it is lasting.

https://www.youngalfred.com/homeowners-insurance/smoke-damage

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Smoke and ash damage from a wildfire

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and ash damage from a wildfire

Smoke damage can be both visible and invisible to the naked eye.  So it is particularly important to have qualified experts do the inspection, testing, cleaning and restoration.  Generally someone hired by your insurance company will do an inspection and issue payment for the amounts they believe they owe to restore your home and your possessions to preloss condition.  That someone may be a claim adjuster, or an air quality expert, or simply a house cleaner.  The person your insurer authorizes to make the decision about whether there is damage and what needs to be done to fix it – may or may not be the qualified expert you need.  So the question often arises:  Who pays for the thorough inspection, report and fix? 

https://www.uphelp.org/pubs/smoke-and-ash-damage-wildfire

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Understand that your insurance covers flame, smoke, ash or soot damage

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Understand that your insurance covers flame, smoke, ash or soot damage

A typical homeowner’s insurance policy will cover damage caused by wind, fire, and lightning. If your home is destroyed by a fire, then the insurance company would be obligated to up to the policy limit for a new home.

A typical insurance policy will also pay to replace or repair anything inside that home that may have been damaged by flames, smoke, soot, ash, and other byproducts of the fire.

Smoke damage is nasty and can affect virtually everything in your home. Many of your possessions and furniture may need to be discarded – even if they don’t look badly damaged. Soot can spread quickly, cover things in many unforeseen places, and is quite hazardous to your health. Be sure to thoroughly inspect for soot damages and inconspicuous damage from smoke when making a claim with your insurance for a fire. A common question with smoke damages is what to do when there is smoke damage to your home from a fire at a house next door, such as a fire at your neighbor’s house. In this case start by contacting your insurance company and they should help guide you through this situation.

Remember: you pay for insurance specifically to cover situations like this. Document all of the items in your home that have even small amounts of smoke, soot, or ash damage.

Your walls may be stained black, for example. Floors and carpeting may be permanently ruined with soot. Even your ceilings could turn an ugly shade of black. Upholstery, drapes, clothing, and family heirlooms can all suffer damage.

https://claimsmate.com/4-things-you-need-to-know-about-smoke-damage-insurance-claims/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Prevent Home Fires

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Prevent Home Fires

Home fires are preventable! The following are simple steps that each of us can take to prevent a tragedy.

Cooking

• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time turn off the stove.
• Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.
• Keep children away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of three feet around the stove.
• Position barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

Smoking

• Smoke outside and completely stub-out butts in an ashtray or a can filled with sand.
• Soak cigarette butts and ashes in water before throwing them away. Never toss hot cigarette butts or ashes in the trash can.
• Never smoke in a home where oxygen is used, even if it is turned off. Oxygen can be explosive and makes fire burn hotter and faster.
• Be alert – don’t smoke in bed! If you are sleepy, have been drinking or have taken medicine that makes you drowsy, put your cigarette out first.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

 SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Checking your home after a Fire

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Check for structural damage

• Is your ceiling sagging? That means it got wet – which makes it heavy and dangerous. It will have to be replaced, so you can try to knock it down. Be careful: wear eye protection and a hard hat, use a long stick, and stand well away from the damaged area. Poke holes in the ceiling starting from the outside of the bulge to let any water drain out slowly. Striking the center of the damaged area may cause the whole ceiling to collapse.

• Is the floor sagging? It could collapse under your weight, so don’t walk there! Small sections that are sagging can be bridged by thick plywood panels or thick, strong boards that extend at least 8–12 inches on each side of the sagging area.

• If the weather is dry, open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home.

• If power is out, use a flashlight. Do not use any open flame, including candles, to inspect for damage or serve as alternate lighting.

• Disconnect and check all appliances for water damage before using them.

• Make temporary repairs such as covering holes, bracing walls, and removing debris. Save all receipts.

• Take photographs of the damage. You may need these to substantiate insurance claims later.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/checking-home-after-fire.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Checking Household Items

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Checking Household Items

• Normal household items, such as cleaning products, can cause toxic fumes and other hazards if they mix. See our household chemical safety tips.

• Spilled chemicals that don’t pose a health risk must still be carefully cleaned up. Wear rubber gloves and discard spilled chemicals and rags used for cleaning according to the advice of local authorities.

• Throw away food, beverages and medicine exposed to heat, smoke or soot. Food that was in the freezer can be used if it still has ice crystals on it. If not, discard it.

Make Sure to:

• Stay out of any building that has water around it.

• Keep away from loose or dangling power lines. Report them immediately to the power company.

• Contact your insurance agent. Do not discard damaged goods until an inventory has been taken. Save receipts for money spent relating to fire loss. Your insurance agent may provide immediate help with living expenses until you are able to return home and may offer assistance for repairs.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/checking-home-after-fire.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to clean up Smoke and Soot from a fire

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning Techniques for Specific Materials For Curtains and Upholstery: If soot has been deposited, it will be necessary to deal with it before cleaning and odor relief. Soot is oil and should be removed as much as possible with a powerful vacuum. On sooty fabrics, do not use an upright vacuum or any machine or attachment with brushes or beater bars, as it will force soot into your other possessions and make them much more difficult to clean. Hold the vacuum nozzle slightly above the surface and let the vacuum do the work in lifting soot from the surface. Remember to cover any cleaned possessions immediately after cleaning with clean sheets to prevent re-soiling during your other clean–up efforts. For Carpet: Use a rotary scrubber or an extraction machine from a rental outlet or supermarket, or hire a professional carpet cleaner. For Clothes and Bedding: Smoke odors can remain in fabrics for a very long time until all of the unburned chemicals have been removed. Many of them are invisible to the eye. Soak overnight with detergent and wash normal. For items that can be bleached, add laundry bleach as normal during the wash cycle. For Hard Materials – Porous (Painted surfaces, wallboard, plaster, wall paper, exposed wood): If soot is present on porous surfaces, we recommend the use of a dry chemical sponge to remove as much soot as possible. This step can prevent soil from being transferred deep into the surface where it may show as a permanent stain. For Hard Materials – Less Porous: Use a sponge, towel or mop with household cleaning detergent to clean tile, countertops, sealed wood, glass, metal, appliances, and vinyl wallpaper. Safety Tips During Restoration · Do not use electrical appliances that have been near a fire. · Do not use ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. · Do not touch anything during your first inspection to prevent transferring soot from item to item. · Do not wash drapes or other materials that may require dry cleaning. · Do not hesitate to seek professional help in restoration effort.

http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/eh/docs/emergunit/cleanFireDamage.pdf

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

After a Fire

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

After a Fire

The following checklist serves as a quick reference and guide for you to follow after a fire strike.

• Contact your local disaster relief service, such as The Red Cross, if you need temporary housing, food and medicines.
• If you are insured, contact your insurance company for detailed instructions on protecting your property, conducting inventory and contacting fire damage restoration companies. If you are not insured, try contacting private organizations for help.
• Check with the fire department to make sure your residence is safe to enter. Watch out for any structural damage caused by the fire.
• The fire department should make sure that utilities are either safe to use or are disconnected before they leave the site. DO NOT attempt to reconnect utilities yourself.
• Conduct an inventory of damaged property and items. Do not throw away any damaged goods until after an inventory is made.
• Begin saving receipts for any money you spend related to fire loss. The receipts may be needed later by the insurance company and for verifying losses claimed on your income tax.
• Notify your mortgage company of the fire.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Smoke Alarms

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke Alarms

A working smoke alarm significantly increases your chances of surviving a deadly home fire.

• Install both ionization AND photoelectric smoke alarms, OR dual sensor smoke alarms, which contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors.
• Test batteries monthly.
• Replace batteries in battery-powered and hard-wired smoke alarms at least once a year (except non-replaceable 10-year lithium batteries).
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement, both inside and outside of sleeping areas.
• Replace the entire smoke alarm unit every 8-10 years or according to manufacturer’s instructions.
• Never disable a smoke alarm while cooking – it can be a deadly mistake.

Smoke Alarm Safety for People with Access or Functional Needs

• Audible alarms for visually impaired people should pause with a small window of silence between each successive cycle so that they can listen to the instructions or voices of others.
• Smoke alarms with a vibrating pad or flashing light are available for the hearing impaired. Contact your local fire department for information about obtaining a flashing or vibrating smoke alarm.
• Smoke alarms with a strobe light outside the home to catch the attention of neighbors and emergency call systems for summoning help are also available.

More Fire Safety Tips

• Make digital copies of valuable documents and records like birth certificates.
• Sleep with your door closed.
• Contact your local fire department for information on training on the proper use and maintenance of fire extinguishers.
• Consider installing an automatic fire sprinkler system in your residence.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Checklist for next steps after a fire

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

Checklist for next steps after a fire

* Contact your local disaster relief service, such as the American Red Cross. They will help you find food, clothing, medicine and a place to stay. *If you have insurance, contact your insurance company. Ask what you should do to keep your home safe until it is repaired. Ask who you should talk to about cleaning up your home. * If you are not insured, try contacting community groups for aid and assistance. * Check with the fire department to make sure that your home is safe to enter. Be very careful when you go inside. Floors and walls may not be as safe as they look. * Contact your landlord or mortgage company to report the fire. * Try to find valuable documents and records. * If you leave your home, call the local police department to let them know the site will be vacant. * Begin saving receipts for any money that you spend related to the fire loss. The receipts may be needed later by the insurance company and to prove any losses claimed on your income tax. * Check with an accountant or the IRS about special benefits for people recovering from fire loss

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Insurance Claim Tips for Partial Loss Fires

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Insurance Claim Tips for Partial Loss Fires

Q: What does a “thorough inspection” include?

A: A thorough inspection will cover the following areas:

• Roof: Your roof should be inspected for damage from burning embers. If heat was extreme, the roof structure may be compromised. Wood under the roofing material may be water stained and moldy. A roofing expert can verify damage.
• Structural Steel, Iron: Steel and iron structures may transfer heat and destabilize a foundation or retaining wall.
• Stucco, Siding and Concrete: Stucco may spall and crack due to dehydration and baking. Siding may melt after exposure to heat and mold may be present underneath. Heat may also damage an anchored foundation or footing and may require testing as well as concrete core sampling. Structural engineers may do x-ray testing and other miscellaneous forensic work.
• Windows: Window frames may melt, blister or discolor due to heat. Glass can experience warping and discoloration and may lose some of its transparent clarity. Warped windows can lead to moisture problems and/or a mold problem.
• Plumbing and Heating Systems: Pipes, solder/connectors and ducts should be checked for damage.
• Interior Walls/Framing: A contractor conducting a thorough inspection of your home’s interior may need to open up walls to check for damage to the framing, or to uncover potentially dangerous mold. It’s better to uncover damage sooner rather than later. Be politely assertive in claim negotiations to make sure your home is restored to a “uniform and consistent” appearance as opposed to a “patchwork quilt” of unmatched new and old materials. Read more information below about “matching.”

https://www.uphelp.org/pubs/insurance-claim-tips-partial-loss-fires

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

After the Fire

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

After the Fire

What do I do now? | Contact your insurance agent Contact your insurance company right away and ask them what to do first. There are companies that specialize in cleaning and restoring your personal items. Ask your insurance company for recommendations of companies you can trust. Make sure you know if you or your insurance company will pay for the cleaning. When you contact the company, be sure to ask for a cost estimate in writing. If you do not have insurance, your family and community might help you get back on your feet. Organizations that might help include: American Red Cross (ARC). Salvation Army. Religious organizations. Public agencies, such as the public health department. Community groups. State or municipal emergency services office. Nonprofit crisis-counseling centers.

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

How do I clean up fire damage?

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

How do I clean up fire damage?

If the damage is extensive, don’t deal with it alone. Contact a professional restoration company to help you. They’ll make a fire damage assessment and thoroughly assess the structure of your home. They also might conduct a water damage restoration company if the fire caused a burst pipe. Once the restoration company has given you the go-ahead, you can also clean up some basic water damage by following these steps from the Red Cross, but make sure to double-check with the restoration company that it’s safe to clean up basic damage on your own.

How much does it cost to fix or repair fire damage

The cost of repairing fire damage depends on the extent of the damage. Fire damage restoration typically costs homeowners between $3,157 and $29,118, with a national average of $13,761, according to Home Advisor. Here’s a summary of fire damage treatments and their typical price ranges: 

https://www.lemonade.com/blog/fire-damage/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie  is here for all of your restoration needs.

Fire Drills - Be Prepared!

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Drills - Be Prepared!

Even young children (3 and older) can begin to learn what to do in case of a fire.  

• Install at least 1 smoke alarm on every level of your home.
• Have an escape plan and practice it with your family. This will help you and your family reach safety when it counts. When a fire occurs, there will be no time for planning an escape.  
• Draw a floor plan of your home. Discuss with your family 2 ways to exit every room. Make sure everyone knows how to get out and that doors and windows can be easily opened to permit escape. If you live in an apartment building, never use an elevator during a fire. Use the stairs!
• Agree on a meeting place. Choose a spot outside your home near a tree, street corner, or fence where everyone can meet after escaping. Teach your children that the sound of a smoke alarm means to go outside right away to the chosen place.  
• Know how to call the fire department. The fire department should be called from outside using a portable phone or from a neighbor's home. Whether the number is 911 or a regular phone number, everyone in the family should know it by heart. Make sure your children know your home address, too. Teach your children that firefighters are friends and never to hide from them.  
• Practice, practice, practice. Practice your exit drill at least twice a year. Remember that fire drills are not a race. Get out quickly, but calmly and carefully. Try practicing realistic situations. Pretend that some exits or doorways are blocked or that the lights are out. The more prepared your family is, the better your chances of surviving a fire.

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/all-around/Pages/Fire-Safety.aspx

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Every 24 seconds, a fire department in the United States responds to a fire.

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

Every 24 seconds a fire department in the United States responds to a fire.

We hope you’re never part of this stat – but in case you are, you’ll need to know what to do in the event of a fire, and how your homeowners insurance can protect you from financial loss.

Here’s how to take care of your home following a fire.

Filing an insurance claim. 

If you need to make an insurance claim for fire damage, it always helps to have photos or videos showing the damage. Photos and videos help your insurance company handle claims fast, and figure out whether to send a restoration vendor or an investigator for more complex claims. Obviously, that’s not always possible after a major fire (safety first), so wait until the fire department gives you the green light to safely go in.

https://www.lemonade.com/blog/fire-damage/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Create a fire escape plan with your family

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Create a fire escape plan with your family

Home fires can rapidly spread, and every second counts. Having a plan in place where you and your family can get out of the house in under two minutes once the alarm sounds is critical for your family’s safety.

Everyone in your family should know how to dial 9-1-1 in the case of emergency. In addition, teach your children what a smoke alarms sounds like and what to do if they hear one. You should also establish and practice a fire escape plan, especially if you have small children. Here some tips for creating your fire escape plan:

• Draw a floor plan of your entire house that shows all the doors and windows.
• Show and discuss the plan with everyone in the house.
• Identify at least two ways out of every room, if possible. This could be through doors or windows.
• Once outside, everyone should meet at an agreed upon meeting place a safe distance from the house. It could be the mailbox or the neighbor’s fence. Just make sure it is easy for young children to get there.

https://www.safety.com/fire-safety/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Electrical safety & home fire prevention

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Electrical safety & home fire prevention

Electrical malfunctions are one of the leading causes of home fires. Make sure that you hire a qualified electrician to make any changes in your home. In addition, be sure to check electrical cords regularly, and make sure cords do not run across doorways or under carpets where they could be damaged. Remember to limit the number of plugs you have in an electrical outlet or power strip. Overloading an electrical outlet can not only trip a breaker, but it could also start a fire. Additionally, only use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage for each lamp. Your lamps and light fixtures should have a sticker that indicates the maximum wattage light bulb you may use.

https://www.safety.com/fire-safety/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Smoke Alarms

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Waking up to smoke and flames is one of the worst things that can happen to your family and home. Over 365,000 fires and 2,650 civilian deaths occur every year, resulting in $7 billion in property damage. The worst part is that most home fires are preventable. Keep your family and your home safe with just a little fire safety preparation and prevention. From creating a fire escape plan to making sure your smoke detectors are working properly, these fire safety tips are easy to learn and practice in your home.

Where to install smoke detectors

The NFPA recommends installing a smoke alarm on every floor, including the basement, and inside every sleeping room. Smoke alarms should be mounted high on a wall not more than a foot from the ceiling or on the ceiling. Remember, smoke rises.

• Kitchen:It is critical to mount smoke alarms in the kitchen at least 10 feet from any cooking appliance to minimize false alarms when cooking.
• Basement:Smoke alarms in the basement should be installed on the ceiling near the bottom step of the stairs up to the first floor.

https://www.safety.com/fire-safety/

 SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs 

Make an Escape Plan

7/10/2020 (Permalink)

Make an Escape Plan

A home fire is reported every 88 seconds. Once the smoke alarm sounds, a fire can spread quickly, leaving only a minute or two to escape. That's why it's so important to have a home escape plan.

Start by drawing a map for your home and following these guidelines from the NFPA:

• Plan two ways to escape from each room
• Make sure all doors and windowsleading outside open easily
• Identify secondary routes – a window onto an adjacent roof or a collapsible ladder from upper-story windows
• If you live in a multi-story building, plan to use the stairs – never the elevator
• Designate an outside meeting place a safe distance from the house where everyone should meet

https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/safety-topics/emergency-preparedness/fire

 SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Family Fire Safety

7/10/2020 (Permalink)

Family Fire Safety

In only a matter of minutes, a small house fire can rage out of control. Heat temperatures from the building fire can reach up to 1,500°F. The flames emit carbon monoxide gas, which is odorless, colorless and tasteless – and can cause immediate unconsciousness, followed by death. Every family should have and practice a home escape plan to follow in the event of a fire. The plan should include drawing a diagram of your home, marking the locations of windows and doors; planning two escape routes out of every room of your home; setting up a meeting place outside of the home for everyone to go following an escape; and practicing the escape plan once a month. Every member of the family and frequent visitors to the home should know and practice the escape route. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) stresses that even children as young as 3 years old can understand an escape plan.

https://www.nsc.org/Portals/0/Documents/NSCDocuments_Advocacy/Fact%20Sheets/Family-Fire-Safety-Plan.pdf

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Keep Your Family Safe from Fire

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Keep Your Family Safe from Fire

Cooking and heating are the leading causes of home fires and fire injuries, and winter months are the peak time for fire-related deaths. Now is the perfect time to review and practice fire safety.

Minimize Your Risks

The good news: Over the past several decades, deaths from home fires in the U.S. have steadily gone down – from 5,200 in 1980 to 2,710 in 2017, according to Injury Facts.

But even one death from a preventable fire is too many. While fire doesn't discriminate by age, it is the third leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 14. In 2017, 127 children in this age group died from fire and smoke inhalation.

https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/safety-topics/emergency-preparedness/fire

 SERVPRO of Grand prairie is here for all of your mitigation needs. 

Prevent House Fires

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

Be careful with candles.

Never leave candles unattended and always keep them away from flammable items like blankets and curtains. Place candles in secure, tip-proof holders and extinguish them before leaving or going to sleep. If you’re afraid you’ll forget, set a timer on your stove or phone. 

Be a conscientious smoker.

Avoid smoking in bed or while lying on the couch so you don’t accidentally fall asleep with a lit cigarette. When smoking outside, never leave used butts on the ground. Always dispose of used cigarettes in ashtrays or other safe receptacles when smoking either inside or outside the house.

Use the fireplace responsibly.

To keep errant sparks from escaping, install a durable metal fire screen in front of your fireplace. Don’t leave a fire unattended. Give ashes ample time to cool down before disposing of them. Always place fireplace ash in a dedicated metal container that isn’t used for any other household refuse. Have your chimney professionally cleaned at least once a year to prevent the buildup of creosote and other materials that could cause a chimney fire.

https://www.safewise.com/home-security-faq/prevent-house-fire/

 SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Prevent House Fires

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Prevent House Fires

Keep the stove and oven clear.

Kitchens are the most common places for house fires. To prevent kitchen fires, don’t leave anything flammable near the stove or oven. Make sure curtains don’t hang over the stove, and never rest towels or a cookbook on the stove top. Keep oven and stove cooking surfaces clean and free of debris, especially if heating elements are exposed. 

Stay in the kitchen.

Don’t leave a hot cooking surface unattended. Whether it’s a pot on the stove or an electric griddle, you need to be close by. If you have to leave the room, take the pot off the stove or turn off the griddle first. Make sure pot handles are turned inwards at all times so they can’t accidentally be bumped and splatter grease.

https://www.safewise.com/home-security-faq/prevent-house-fire/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Fire Extinguishers

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Extinguishers

• If you try to use a fire extinguisher on a fire and the fire does not immediately die down, drop the extinguisher and get out. Most portable extinguishers empty in 8 seconds.
• Look at your fire extinguisher to ensure that it is properly charged. Fire extinguishers will not work properly if they are not properly charged. Use the gauge or test button to check that there is proper pressure. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for replacing or recharging fire extinguishers. If the unit is low on pressure, damaged, or corroded, replace it or have it professionally serviced.

 Before you begin to fight a fire with a fire extinguisher, be sure that:

• Everyone has left or is leaving the home.
• The fire department has been called.
• The fire is small and not spreading.
• Your back is to an exit you can use quickly.
• There is not much smoke in the room.

P: Remember the word PASS when using a fire extinguisher:

A: Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.

S: Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

S: Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/fire-safety-equipment.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Fire Safety Equipment

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

SMOKE ALARMS

• Use the test button to test your smoke alarms at least monthly.The test feature tests all electronic functions and is safer than testing with a controlled fire (matches, lighters, cigarettes).
  • If the manufacturer's instructions permit the use of an aerosol smoke product for testing the smoke alarm, choose one that has been examined and tested by a third-party product testing laboratory, and use it in accordance with the product instructions.
• If you have battery-powered smoke alarms, replace the batteries at least once a year. Some agencies recommend that you replace batteries when the time changes from standard to daylight savings each spring and then back again in the fall. "Change your clock, change your batteries." Replacing batteries this often will not hurt, but fresh batteries typically last at least a year, so more frequent replacement is not necessary unless the smoke alarm begins to chirp.
  • If your local area does not observe daylight savings time, pick an easy-to-remember anniversary, such as your birthday or a national holiday, as the day to change the batteries each year.
  • Replace the batteries in your carbon monoxide (CO) alarms at the same time you replace your smoke alarm batteries.
• Replace your smoke alarms every 10 years. This is the recommendation of the National Fire Protection Association and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Smoke alarms become less sensitive over time.
• Be sure to install smoke alarms in areas where pets are and in other buildings that house animals where humans can hear them.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/fire-safety-equipment.html

 SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Checking Utilities and Major Systems

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

Checking Utilities and Major Systems

Telephones

• Check each telephone to see if it is still on the hook. Hang up any phones that aren’t. Wait a few minutes, and then pick up one phone to listen for a dial tone to know whether you have working telephone service.
• If you don’t have a dial tone, try unplugging all the phones. Plug in one at a time and listen for dial tone. This will help you determine if the phone itself is broken or the service is completely out. If it is, contact the telephone company to report the problem and request repair.

Checking Household Items

• Normal household items, such as cleaning products, can cause toxic fumes and other hazards if they mix. See our household chemical safety tips.
• Spilled chemicals that don’t pose a health risk must still be carefully cleaned up. Wear rubber gloves and discard spilled chemicals and rags used for cleaning according to the advice of local authorities.
• Throw away food, beverages and medicine exposed to heat, smoke or soot. Food that was in the freezer can be used if it still has ice crystals on it. If not, discard it.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/checking-home-after-fire.html

 SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your  restoration needs.

Check for Structural Damage

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

Check for Structural Damage

• Check for smoke and embers throughout the home, including the attic.
• Beware of animals, such as rodents, snakes, spiders and insects, that may have entered your home. As you inspect your home, tap loudly and often on the floor with a stick to give notice that you are there.
• Damaged objects, such as furniture or stairs, may be unstable. Be very cautious when moving near them. Avoid holding, pushing or leaning against damaged building parts.
• Is your ceiling sagging? That means it got wet – which makes it heavy and dangerous. It will have to be replaced, so you can try to knock it down. Be careful: wear eye protection and a hard hat, use a long stick, and stand well away from the damaged area. Poke holes in the ceiling starting from the outside of the bulge to let any water drain out slowly. Striking the center of the damaged area may cause the whole ceiling to collapse.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/checking-home-after-fire.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Recovering after a Fire

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Caring for Yourself & Loved Ones

• Pay attention to how you and your loved ones are experiencing and handling stress. Promote emotional recoveryby following these tips. Discard any food that has been exposed to heat, smoke or soot.
• Watch pets closely and keep them under your direct control.
• Help people who require additional assistance- infants, elderly people, those without transportation, large families who may need additional help in an emergency situation, people with disabilities, and the people who care for them.

4 Steps to Take Immediately After a Home Fire

Call 9-1-1. Give first aid where needed; cool and cover burns to reduce the chance of further injury or infection.

Let friends and family know you’re safe.

People and animals that are seriously injured or burned should be transported to professional medical or veterinary help immediately.

Stay out of fire-damaged homes until local fire authorities say it is safe to re-enter.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/home-fire-recovery.html

 SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

The 7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire

2/1/2020 (Permalink)

The 7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire

Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.         

Teach 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 know the family meeting spot outside of your home.

Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.

Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire “to alert everyone that they must get out.

Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.

Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire. 

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/home-fire-preparedness.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Develop Fire-Safe Habits

2/1/2020 (Permalink)

Develop Fire-Safe Habits

Protect your home

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and outside every sleeping area. Also, install acarbon monoxide alarm in a central location outside each separate sleeping area.
• Keep matches and lighters up high, away from children, preferably in a locked cabinet.
• Use flashlights when the power is out, not candles.
• Make sure your house number is easily readable from the street, even at night
• Download the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Fact Sheet

Cook more safely

• Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. Stay in the home while simmering, baking, roasting or boiling food.
• Keep pets off cooking surfaces and countertops.
• Keep the stove area clean and clear of things that can catch fire, such as pot holders, towels, curtains, bags, and other appliances.
• If you are cooking and a fire starts in a pan, slide a lid over the burning pan and turn off the burner. Leave the lid in place until the pan is completely cool. Moving the pan can cause serious injury or spread the fire. Never pour water on grease fires.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/home-fire-preparedness.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Fire Drills

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Drills: Not Just for School!

What if there was a fire where you live? Would you know what to do? Talking about fires can be scary because no one likes to think about people getting hurt or their things getting burned. But you can feel less worried if you are prepared.

Home Fire Drills

It's great to talk about emergency plans, but it's even better if you practice them, like the fire drills you have at school. Having a fire drill at home gives everyone a chance to see how they would react in a real emergency. You can see how quickly and safely everyone can get out of the house. Your family should practice this drill twice a year, every year. It's also a good time to remind your parents to change the batteries in the smoke alarms.

A good rule of thumb during a home fire drill is to see if your family can safely get out the house using the escape routes and meet outside at the same place within 3 minutes. For an extra challenge, you might try variations, like pretending that the front door was blocked and you couldn't get out that way.

Different families will have different plans. Some kids live in one-story houses and other kids live in tall buildings. You'll want to talk about escape plans and escape routes

https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/fire-safety.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

What to do in a fire

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

If Your Clothes Catch Fire

A person's clothes could catch fire during a fire or by accident, like if you step too close to a candle. If this happens, don't run! Instead, stop, drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands, and roll. This will cut off the air and put out the flames. An easy way to remember this is: Stop, Drop, and Roll!

Preventing Fires

Every year, kids of all ages start over 35,000 fires that hurt people and damage property. You can do your part to prevent fires by never playing with matches, lighters, and other fire sources. Also stay away from fireplaces, candles, and stoves.

By following this advice, you'll be doing important work — preventing fires in the first place!

 https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/fire-safety.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs.

Fire prevention

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention is important, especially when it involves your home

Prevention is always the first step in all instances. To prevent a house fire from causing severe damages you truly need tips and tricks that could come in handy in times of a house fire. Fire is disastrous, and you have to be cautious because in as little as two minutes, a house fire can turn into a rapid movement and life-threatening disaster.

According to FEMA, each year thousands of Americans die in fire related incidents with billions of properties lost. In fact, the heat and smoke from the fire causes more deaths. 

Fires are very scary and cause a lot of damage and destruction as well as injuries and deaths. Always remember to stay calm and call for help. Know how to stay safe if a fire ever happens within your home.

https://www.lifehack.org/487224/9-things-to-do-when-in-a-house-fire

 SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Things to do when in a house fire

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

Things to do when in a house fire

*Close doors: Once you crawled out of a room, close the door behind you. Research has proven that closing doors prevents fire from spreading, which simply means the fire will be relegated to a spot for a while.

*Rest out: Once you are out of the house, stay out. Even if you left your animals or property behind, do not enter a burning house. Notify the fire department officers immediately if you believe people or pets are still in the house and direct them to where they could be.

*Safety evacuation spot: After the evacuation, meet the rest of the family members in a predetermined location and remain there until everyone in the household is rescued. This is done to prevent fire officers from searching for people who are already out of the fire.

https://www.lifehack.org/487224/9-things-to-do-when-in-a-house-fire

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs

Before a Fire

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Before a Fire

Create and Practice a Fire Escape Plan

In the event of a fire, remember that every second counts, so you and your family must always be prepared. Escape plans help you get out of your home quickly.

Twice each year, practice your home fire escape plan.  Some tips to consider when preparing this plan include:

• Find two ways to get out of each room in the event the primary way is blocked by fire or smoke.
• A secondary route might be a window onto a neighboring roof or a collapsible ladder for escape from upper story windows.
• Make sure that windows are not stuck, screens can be taken out quickly, and that security bars can be properly opened.
• Practice feeling your way out of the house in the dark or with your eyes closed.
• Teach children not to hide from firefighters.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs

Escape plan the elderly & access or functional needs

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Escape Plan for Older Adults and People with Access or Functional Needs

• Live near an exit. You'll be safest on the ground floor if you live in an apartment building. If you live in a multi-story home, arrange to sleep on the ground floor, and near an exit.
• If you use a walker or wheelchair, check all exits to be sure you get through the doorways.
• Make any necessary accommodations, such as providing exit ramps and widening doorways, to facilitate an emergency escape.
• Speak to your family members, building manager, or neighbors about your fire safety plan and practice it with them.
• Contact your local fire department's non-emergency line and explain your special needs. Ask emergency providers to keep your special needs information on file.
• Keep a phone near your bed and be ready to call 911 or your local emergency number if a fire occurs.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Prevent Home Fires

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Home fires are preventable! The following are simple steps that each of us can take to prevent a tragedy.

Cooking

• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.
• Keep children away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of 3 feet around the stove.
• Position barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

Smoking

• Smoke outside and completely stub out butts in an ashtray or a can filled with sand.
• Soak cigarette butts and ashes in water before throwing them away. Never toss hot cigarette butts or ashes in the trash can.
• Never smoke in a home where oxygen is used, even if it is turned off. Oxygen can be explosive and makes fire burn hotter and faster.
• Be alert - don’t smoke in bed! If you are sleepy, have been drinking, or have taken medicine that makes you drowsy, put your cigarette out first.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

 SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Cleaning up and removing smoke odor

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning up and removing smoke odor

• Wash walls one small area at a time, working from the floor up to prevent streaking. Rinse with clear water immediately. Ceilings should be washed last. Do not repaint until walls and ceilings are completely dry. Reduce the chances of growth of mold and mildew by wiping down all surfaces that had gotten wet with a solution of one cup of liquid household bleach to a gallon of water. (Test surfaces to ensure that the bleach solution will not discolor these surfaces. To conduct this test, wipe a small area of the surface with the bleach solution, and allow it to dry at least 24 hours.)
• Washable wallpaper can be cleansed like painted walls, but do not wet through the paper. Use a commercial paste to repaste any loose edges or sections.

Consult a professional about replacing drywall and insulation that has been soaked by water from fire hoses. It cannot be dried out and maintain structural integrity or resistance to mold and mildew.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/cleaning-up-after-fire.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs

What do I do now? After the fire!

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

What do I do now? After the fire!

Contact your insurance agent Contact your insurance company right away and ask them what to do first. There are companies that specialize in cleaning and restoring your personal items. Ask your insurance company for recommendations of companies you can trust. Make sure you know if you or your insurance company will pay for the cleaning. When you contact the company, be sure to ask for a cost estimate in writing. If you do not have insurance, your family and community might help you get back on your feet. Organizations that might help include: j American Red Cross (ARC). j Salvation Army. j Religious organizations. j Public agencies, such as the public health department. j Community groups. j State or municipal emergency services office.  Nonprofit crisis-counseling centers. Take care of yourself and family Contact your local disaster relief service, such as the ARC or the Salvation Army. They will help you find food, clothing, medicine and a place to stay. You have a big job ahead of you. Get plenty of rest, and ask for help. Do not try to do it all alone. Help your pets If you have pets, find and comfort them. Scared animals often react by biting or scratching. Handle them carefully. Try to leave pets with a family member, friend or veterinarian if you are visiting or cleaning your damaged home. Keeping your pets out of the house until the cleanup is complete will keep them safe. Security and safety Do not enter your damaged home or apartment unless the fire department says it is safe.

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

FIRE SAFETY TIPS

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

FIRE SAFETY TIPS

Create and Practice a Fire Escape Plan

1. Create and practice a home fire escape plan with two ways out of every room.
2. As part of your plan, designate one person to get infants and small children out safely. Have a back-up plan for young children just in case the primary person is overcome by smoke.
3. Smoke is toxic. Teach children to “get low and go” if there is smoke when they are leaving the home.
4. Practice feeling the door, doorknob and cracks around the door with the back of your hand to see if they are too hot. Help your children practice this step.
5. Choose a place to meet outside that is a safe distance away from your home.

https://www.safekids.org/tip/fire-safety-tips

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year waiting to serve you!

Fire Safety Tips

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

Install Barriers Such as safety Gates Around Fireplaces, Ovens and Furnaces

1. Make sure your fireplace is protected by a sturdy screen. Remember that glass screens can take a long time to cool down.
2. If you are using a fireplace or wood stove, make sure you burn only seasoned hardwood such as oak, ash or maple.
3. If small children live in or visit your home, use a safety gate around your fireplace or wood stove.

Blow Out Candles and Store Matches Out of reach

1. Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn, and always blow them out when you leave the room or before you go to sleep.
2. Make a habit of placing matches, gasoline and lighters in a safe place, out of children’s reach. Avoid novelty lighters or lighters that look like toys.
3. Teach kids never to play with matches and lighters. Make a habit of placing these items up and away from young children.

https://www.safekids.org/tip/fire-safety-tips

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

What to do in a Fire

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

Know What to Do in a Fire

• Test any closed doors with the back of your hand for heat. Do not open the door if you feel heat or see smoke. Close all doors as you leave each room to keep the fire from spreading.  
• Crawl low under smoke. Choose the safest exit. If you must escape through a smoky area, remember that cleaner air is always near the floor. Teach your child to crawl on her hands and knees, keeping her head less than 2 feet above the floor, as she makes her way to the nearest exit.  
• Don't stop. Don't go back. In case of fire, do not try to rescue pets or possessions. Once you are out, do not go back in for any reason. Firefighters have the best chance of rescuing people who are trapped. Let firefighters know right away if anyone is missing.
• Stop, drop, and roll! Cool and call. Make sure your child knows what to do if his clothes catch fire.
• Stop! - Do not run.
• Drop! - Drop to the ground right where you are.
• Roll! - Roll over and over to put out the flames. Cover your face with your hands.
• Cool - Cool the burned area with water.
• Call - Call for help.

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/all-around/Pages/Fire-Safety.aspx

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Fire by candles

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Candles may be pretty to look at but they are a cause of home fires — and home fire deaths. Remember, a candle is an open flame, which means that it can easily ignite anything that can burn.

“CANDLE WITH CARE” • Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep. • Keep candles at least 1 foot away from anything that can burn. If you do burn candles, make sure that you... • Use candle holders that are sturdy, and won’t tip over easily. • Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface. • Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame. • Don’t burn a candle all the way down — put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container. • Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home. • Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles.

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/CandleSafetyTips.ashx?la=en

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Fire prevention strategies for your family

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

In addition to arming your home, you can employ a few fire safety strategies to keep your family protected.

• Keep an outdoor water supply with easy access for firefighters: Leave plenty of room for fire trucks to enter and attach to a water supply, if necessary.
• Prepare with an emergency plan your family: Make sure all family members know what to do and where to go if a house fire occurs. Include an alternate meeting location if your home becomes inaccessible.
• Assemble an emergency kit: Emergency kits can make a world of difference if you have to evacuate your home. Make sure to include first aid items, bottled water, food, identification information, any necessary prescriptions, additional clothing, a flashlight (don’t forget extra batteries), and a spare credit card or money.
• If a wildfire is imminent, make arrangements for overnight stay in a safe area: If a wildfire is truly spreading to your home, you may be forced to stay away for several days. Make provisions in your fire safety plan for overnight stay for you and your family. Don’t forget about your pets!
• Protect yourself and your family from wildfire smoke: Even if you have evacuated the immediate area of a wildfire, your family could still be harmed by the smoke generated by wildfires. Avoid inhaling smoke when possible.

https://www.protectyourhome.com/blog/fire-detection-and-safety/how-to-prevent-a-house-fire

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Fire prevention

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Electrical safety & home fire prevention

Electrical malfunctions are one of the leading causes of home fires. Make sure that you hire a qualified electrician to make any changes in your home. In addition, be sure to check electrical cords regularly, and make sure cords do not run across doorways or under carpets where they could be damaged.

Remember to limit the number of plugs you have in an electrical outlet or power strip. Overloading an electrical outlet can not only trip a breaker, but it could also start a fire.

Additionally, only use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage for each lamp. Your lamps and light fixtures should have a sticker that indicates the maximum wattage light bulb you may use.

https://www.safety.com/fire-safety/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here 24/7 365, for all of your restoration needs, call us today so we can make it feel "Like it never even happened"

Create a fire escape plan with your family

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Home fires can rapidly spread, and every second counts. Having a plan in place where you and your family can get out of the house in under two minutes once the alarm sounds is critical for your family’s safety.

Everyone in your family should know how to dial 9-1-1 in the case of emergency. In addition, teach your children what a smoke alarms sounds like and what to do if they hear one. You should also establish and practice a fire escape plan, especially if you have small children. Here some tips for creating your fire escape plan:

• Draw a floor plan of your entire house that shows all the doors and windows.
• Show and discuss the plan with everyone in the house.
• Identify at least two ways out of every room, if possible. This could be through doors or windows.
• Once outside, everyone should meet at an agreed upon meeting place a safe distance from the house. It could be the mailbox or the neighbor’s fence. Just make sure it is easy for young children to get there.

You can also download a kid-friendly fire escape planning worksheet from the National Fire Protection Association and complete it with your family.

https://www.safety.com/fire-safety/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Prevent Home Fires

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

• Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
• If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
• Immediately shut off, then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to the touch and lights that flicker.

Portable space heaters

• Keep combustible objects at least three feet away from portable heating devices.
• Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• Check to make the portable heater has a thermostat control mechanism, and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over.
• Only use crystal clear K-1 kerosene in kerosene heaters. Never overfill it. Use the heater in a well-ventilated room.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Home fires

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Before a fire

Create and practice a fire escape plan

In the event of a fire, remember that every second counts, so you and your family must always be prepared. Escape plans help you get out of your home quickly.

Twice each year, practice your home fire escape plan. Some tips to consider when preparing this plan include:

• Find two ways to get out of each room in the event the primary way is blocked by fire or smoke.
• A secondary route might be a window onto a neighboring roof or a collapsible ladder for escape from upper story windows.
• Make sure that windows are not stuck, screens can be taken out quickly, and that security bars can be properly opened.
• Practice feeling your way out of the house in the dark or with your eyes closed.
• Teach children not to hide from firefighters.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here 24/7, 365 for all of your restoration needs.

During a fire

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

During a fire:

• Crawl low under any smoke to your exit - heavy smoke and poisonous gases collect first along the ceiling.
• Before opening a door, feel the doorknob and door. If either is hot, or if there is smoke coming around the door, leave the door closed and use your second way out.
• If you open a door, open it slowly. Be ready to shut it quickly if heavy smoke or fire is present.
• If you can’t get to someone needing assistance, leave the home and call 9-1-1 or the fire department. Tell the emergency operator where the person is located.
• If pets are trapped inside your home, tell firefighters right away.
• If you can’t get out, close the door and cover vents and cracks around doors with cloth or tape to keep smoke out.  Call 9-1-1 or your fire department. Say where you are and signal for help at the window with a light-colored cloth or a flashlight.
• If your clothes catch fire, stop, drop, and roll – stop immediately, drop to the ground, and cover your face with your hands.  Roll over and over or back and forth until the fire is out.  If you or someone else cannot stop, drop, and roll, smother the flames with a blanket or towel.  Use cool water to treat the burn immediately for 3 to 5 minutes.  Cover with a clean, dry cloth.  Get medical help right away by calling 9-1-1 or the fire department.

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Western states are more prone to fires

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Western states are particularly prone to the dangers of wildfires. 

Drought conditions that are common in Western states make it even more important to have fire prevention measures in place. Dry, brittle brush and extreme temperatures can turn a minor mishap into a raging blaze. But remember, these dangerous events are largely preventable. According to Cal Fire, 95% of wildfires are started by people. Most house fires can be prevented with the proper fire prevention measures.  Heed these tips to help prevent fires:

1. Maintain vehicles to avoid sparks
2. Practice campfire safety to avoid house fires
3. Have fire extinguishers and shovels ready for dousing
4. Consider a spark arrester on equipment in fire-prone areas.

Across the United States, increasingly hot and dry conditions are making wildfires an issue for many Americans.

https://www.protectyourhome.com/blog/fire-detection-and-safety/how-to-prevent-a-house-fire

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here 24/7, 365 for all of your restoration needs, so call us today.

When a Fire Starts

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

If a Fire starts

• Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher
• Remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL 9-1-1 or your local emergency phone number.
• Yell "Fire!" several times and go outside right away. If you live in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.
• If closed doors or handles are warm or smoke blocks your primary escape route, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to the touch.
• If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Close doors behind you.
• If smoke, heat or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with doors closed. Place a wet towel under the door and call the fire department or 9-1-1. Open a window and wave a brightly colored cloth or flashlight to signal for help.
• Once you are outside, go to your meeting place and then send one person to call the fire department. If you cannot get to your meeting place, follow your family emergency communication plan.

If your clothes catch on fire:

• Stopwhat you’re doing.
• Dropto the ground and cover your face if you can.
• Rollover and over or back and forth until the flames go out. Running will only make the fire burn faster.

THEN:

Once the flames are out, cool the burned skin with water for three to five minutes. Call for medical attention.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/if-a-fire-starts.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs!

Oven, Microwave, and Electrical Fires

2/21/2019 (Permalink)

Oven, Microwave, and Electrical Fires

Fires can happen anywhere in the kitchen — near an electrical outlet, in the microwave, or in the stove. Here are some tips to help you know what to do in case of any of these kitchen fires:

• Oven fires. Immediately close the oven door and turn it off. If the fire doesn’t go out right away, call the fire department. Have the oven inspected and repaired before you use it again.
• Microwave fires. Close the microwave door and keep it closed. Turn the microwave off and unplug it if you can do so safely. Leave it closed and don't use it again until you can have the appliance checked out by a technician.
• Electrical fires. Prevent electrical fires by not overloading your electrical outlets with appliances. If a fire starts, use a fire extinguisher; never douse it with water. Always call the fire department for an electrical fire, even if you have already put it out with the fire extinguisher.

https://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-home/general-safety/tips/how-and-when-to-fight-cooking-fires.aspx

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here 24/7 365, for all of you restoration needs

9 Facts about Fire

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

1. Understand the fire triangle 
A simplified cousin to the fire tetrahedron, the triangle represents the three components that fires need to exist: heat, oxygen and fuel. If one of these components is missing, a fire can’t ignite.

Heat can be generated by a cigarette, an electrical current or a home heater. Fuel can be anything combustible, such as wood, paper, clothing, furniture, gases or chemicals.

Once a fire starts, if any of the three components is removed, the fire is extinguished. Water is used to cool a fire and take away the heat source. Oxygen can be removed by smothering a fire with dirt, sand, a chemical agent or a blanket.

Fuel can be removed by moving combustible materials away from the fire or by simply waiting until the fire consumes the material and goes out of its own accord.

2. Fire kills
Every year more than 3,800 people die fire related deaths in the U.S. Approximately 18,300 people are injured every year in fires. Most of these fires could have been prevented by practicing proper fire safety and having fire alarms. On average more than 60 firefighters die every year in the line of duty.

3. It's in the kitchen
Most house fires start in the kitchen. Cooking is the leading cause of home fire injuries. Cooking fires often start from overheated grease and unattended cooking. Electric stoves are involved in more fires than gas stoves.

4. Leading causes of death
Another fact about fire is that smoking is the primary cause of death by fire in the U.S. The second cause of fire deaths is heating equipment.

5. Arson
Arson is the third most common cause of home fires. Arson in commercially operated buildings is the major reason for fire deaths and injuries in those types of properties.

6. Smoke inhalation
More people die from smoke inhalation than flames. Fire can suck all of the oxygen from a room and replace it with poisonous smoke and gases before flames even reach a room. Many times people die from lack of oxygen before the fire reaches their room.

7. Run report
According to NFPA, firefighters in the U.S. were called out on 501,500 structure fires in 2015. Between 2007 and 2011, there was an average of 2,570 civilian deaths and 13,210 civilian injuries per year, and a total estimated cost of $329 billion in 2011.

8. Candles
Candles caused approximately 9,300 home fires and 86 home fire deaths between 2009 and 2013.They were also responsible for 827 injuries and $374 million in property damage.

9. Smoke alarms 
Approximately two-thirds of all fire deaths happen in homes where there’s no working fire alarm. Your chance of dying in a home fire is cut in half if you have a working smoke alarm.

https://www.firerescue1.com/fire-products/Firefighter-Accountability/articles/1206336-9-facts-about-fire/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs

What to Dispose of after a fire

11/14/2018 (Permalink)

Dispose of These Items After a Fire

There are some items that should always be tossed after a fire.

• Perishable Food
  • If the electricity has been off for more than four hours, even after a small fire, most refrigerated and frozen food should be tossed. If a freezer is full and undamaged, check for ice crystals and you may be able to salvage the food for up to eight hours.
• Non-Perishable Food
  • Any foods, even canned goods, that have been exposed to heat and firefighting chemicals should be tossed. The excessive heat can cause food to spoil even if the cans are not burned.
• Cosmetics and Medicines
  • Water, smoke, firefighting chemicals, and excessively high temperatures can ruin cosmetics and medicines. It is not worth risking your health to salvage these items.
• Electrical Equipment
  • No electrical items like small appliances or entertainment equipment should be used until they have been checked for water damage and heat damage to wiring. Toss any questionable items to avoid the possibility of another fire.

Interior clean up

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Interior Clean-Up

When you’re ready to move inside, do so with extreme caution. Open all doors carefully and never force them ajar; the doorway could be supporting the building’s (now precarious) structure, and shifting its position could lead to injury, further damage, or even a collapse. Find an alternate entry to the front door if necessary, and consult a building inspector or fire marshal before entering any interior rooms with a jammed door.

Once you’re inside, stop and sniff for a gas leak. If you even think you detect the odor, or if you hear a suspicious hissing sound that could be a broken gas line, leave the house immediately and call the fire department. Follow their instructions implicitly and be sure to let your neighbors know what’s going on so they can take the necessary precautions.

As you begin your interior inspection, don’t forget to look up; the ceiling may be unstable or show signs of sagging from water collection. Similarly, the walls and flooring may have been weakened from fire or water damage, so step lightly and test any areas that look questionable before putting your own weight on them. You can use thick plywood panels or wood boards to cover unstable areas, just be sure they extend at least 8-12 inches on each side of the damaged area.

Use fans and open windows to increase the circulation of air throughout the home. If there’s a great amount of water damage and you live in a warm, humid climate, it may be better to keep the windows shut and instead opt for a dehumidifier. In cold weather, the heating system can help remove humidity from the air — just don’t forget to check and clean the filter each day.

Dry any wet items like drapes, carpet, and furniture as soon as possible to avoid permanent mold and mildew damage. Aluminum foil or plastic wrap can be placed under furniture legs for protection, and any fully-dried items can be enclosed in plastic until all cleanup is completed. You’ll need to completely remove large area rugs for proper drying, especially those that extend wall-to-wall.

Before you can start working on ridding your house and belongings of smoke odor, you’ll first need to address any soot. Soot is quite oily, meaning it’s easily transferred among items and prone to staining. You may be able to remove it yourself by taking the vacuum hose and holding it slightly off the surface of the item or area. Never use an upright vacuum or brush tools when removing soot, as that can cause the soot to grind deeper into fabric and carpet. You may even want to hire a professional carpet cleaner to remove the soot with a professional grade heavy-duty shop vacuum designed for these purposes.

To remove soot from walls, use a chemical sponge or another non-water based cleaner. (Be especially careful with plaster walls — water-based cleaners can actually cause the soot to bleed into the wall.) You may have success using paint thinner or rubbing alcohol, though you’ll want to ensure the room you’re working in has adequate ventilation before you begin.

Removing smoke odor from fabrics can be a tricky process, but the good news is that you have several options for treatment. For clothing, it may help to add 1-2 cups of vinegar to each wash load, though it may take several cycles to completely remove it. For persistent smells, try dissolving one cup of dishwasher detergent with one gallon of warm water and soaking the items overnight. Wash them as usual the next day. Never attempt to counter the smell with fabric refreshers or perfumes — at best, it will only mask the smell temporarily, and it could even amplify the problem.

For clothing that can be bleached, try mixing 4-6 tablespoons of trisodium phosphate (which can usually be found at your local hardware store), one cup of household chlorine bleach, and one gallon of water. Swish around the clothes and work the mixture through the fabric as much as possible, then rinse them with clean water.

When it comes to furniture and other items unable to be thrown in the wash, consult your local dry cleaner on which counteractants would be best to use; he may have several recommendations based on which items were affected, so be sure to tell him the kinds of materials you’ll be treating. He may even be able to suggest items for your laundry if you’re still having trouble removing the odor from clothing.

A major problem with smoke odor is that it can travel quite easily, including through walls and air ducts. Unfortunately, this means it can get trapped in air ducts and cause a recurring odor even months after the fire. Your best option to ensure your entire house gets aired out properly is to consult a professional about thermal fogging, a process that opens the pores of walls and neutralizes the smoke odor. It’s especially helpful in homes with attics, though you’ll likely need to remove odor-absorbing insulation from the attic either way.

While there are plenty of ways to clean up your home and property yourself, keep in mind that bringing in a professional may be the best route for certain tasks. While costly, these experts will know the best ways to get your home back to its pre-fire condition; plus, the expense will likely be significantly less than having to replace items after failed attempts to refurbish them yourself. Keep detailed records and receipts for both you and the insurance company; some of the repairs may be tax-deductible.

The fire recovery process comes with plenty of challenges and frustrations, so be sure you have a strong support system to help you through it. You may even discover that the cleanup process helps your family come together as one and bond, so look for silver linings as often as you can. With time, your home will look more like you remember it — perhaps even better! — and with patience, your emotional wounds will heal, as well.

https://www.redfin.com/blog/2016/08/the-guide-to-cleaning-up-after-a-house-fire.html

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here 24/7 365, for all of your restoration needs

What is in Smoke Residue/Soot?

9/20/2018 (Permalink)

What is in the Smoke Residue/Soot? All materials involved in a fire cause odors. Typically, soot is representative of what has burned, but may include byproducts that at first seem unrelated to the original material. For example, hydrogen cyanide is a byproduct of burning wool. When wood burns it can produce manganese and benzene. As many products as there are in the world, there are an equal number of byproducts produced in a fire. Each fire is different based on the contents of what has burned during the event. Organic and inorganic materials produce different types of smoke residue or soot. These residues may be present on surfaces that conservators may be tasked with treating. Burnt organic material produces soot that is hard to see and often has a very pungent odor. This is known as protein smoke. It can discolor paints and varnishes. Protein smoke can disperse over large areas and attach itself to everything. How the fire burns and how much moisture is in the air while the fire burns, plays a role in soot deposition on articles. The amount of moisture in the air is a key component in whether the smoke that is produced is wet or dry. There are several types of smoke or soot, which may be present on a surface that conservators might be tasked with treating: Wet Smoke—can present as a sticky residue or soot, and is often associated with a smoldering type of fire and often will have a strong odor. Dry Smoke—associated with a fast-burning fire and occurs at high temperatures. Protein—often present in soot, usually invisible, it can discolor paints and varnishes and often has a very pungent odor. Protein odors could be caused by food on the stove burning slowly or other sources. The slow burn allows the protein to disperse and attach itself to everything, producing a strong odor.

http://www.conservation-us.org/docs/default-source/periodicals/2010-09-sept-aicnews.pdf?sfvrsn=6

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here 24/7 365, for all of your restoration needs

After the Fire! Returning to Normal

8/17/2018 (Permalink)

After the Fire! Returning to Normal A fire will change your life in many ways. Knowing where to begin and who can help you is important. The U.S. Fire Administration hopes you find this information useful in your journey to return tonormal. What to Expect A fire in a home can cause serious damage. The building and many of the things in your home may have been badly damaged by flames, heat, smoke and water. You will find that things the fire did not burn up are now ruined by smoke and soggy with water used to put out the flames. Anything that you want to save or reuse will need to be carefully cleaned. The firefighters may have cut holes in the walls of the building to look for any hidden flames. They may even have cut holes in the roof to let out the heat and smoke. Cleanup will take time and patience. If your home had a home fire sprinkler system, you will find little damage from flames, heat, smoke and water. If you plan to rebuild your home, now is the time to think about installing sprinklers.

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

How to make a fire escape plan

8/14/2018 (Permalink)

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

Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds. 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. Pull together everyone in your household and make a plan. Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes. Households with children should consider drawing a floor plan of your home, marking two ways out of each room, including windows and doors.

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Safety-in-the-home/Escape-planning

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs.

6 Tips

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

You may think a house fire will never happen to you. But what if it does? Are you prepared?

Figuring out what to do after a home fire can be a very stressful and overwhelming process, and it can be hard to decide what to do first. With a little help from your insurance agent, though, you may be able to settle your claim more quickly and get your life back to normal.

Here are the six things you should do after a home fire.

1. Call your insurance agent immediately.

2. Ask about restoration companies that can help with cleaning up soot, boarding up windows, and other construction.

3. Separate damaged property from undamaged property.

4. Save undamaged property from further destruction.

5. Cooperate fully with the insurance company’s investigation.

6. Find somewhere to stay if you can’t live in your home.

https://blog.equifax.com/credit/six-things-you-need-to-do-after-a-house-fire/

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here 24/7 365 for all of your restoration needs. Call us today at 972-602-1112, we're waiting to serve you! 

Tips for fire safety

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

The National Fire Protection Association has announced the theme for its Fire Prevention Week 2018 campaign:Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware – fire can happen anywhere.

Through the annual campaign, set for Oct. 7-13 this year, NFPA aims to raise awareness of “three basic but essential steps to take to reduce the likelihood of having a fire.” Those steps are:
LOOKfor possible fire hazards in your home and eliminate them.
LISTENfor your home’s smoke alarms. Know that you may have only minutes to get out if a fire breaks out.
LEARNtwo ways out of each room of your home. Exits should be easy to access and free of clutter. After leaving the home, go to your family’s designated meeting spot, established when you set up ahome fire escape plan.

NFPA provides resources, including community posters, for the public to use to educate others about home fire safety. For kids, the campaign has activity pages and Simon, a character whoshares messages about fire safety.

http://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/17212-fire-prevention-week-2018-look-listen-learn

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your restoration needs.

Don't postponed your fire restoration

7/26/2018 (Permalink)

When a fire occurs in a home, the aftermath can seem overwhelming, and if fire restoration is postponed, the destruction from smoke damage can become even worse. The longer you wait to address the damage, the more repairs you'll have to fix - which means you'll most likely have a larger bill for damages when all is said and done. You can avoid costly repairs and long-term issues if you make fire damage restoration a priority and follow the steps you'll need to get your home back to normal as soon as possible.

Prolonged Smoke Damage

Fire damage is tricky because some signs are apparent—such as discoloration on walls and ceilings and dark stains from smoke on surfaces—but others are not, such as odors trapped in hidden places. Air conditioner vents, the space behind walls and the outside walls of your home are all areas where ash and soot can be deposited and continue to cause damage if they aren't taken care of in a timely manner.

https://www.resolvebylowes.com/guidance/fire/why-immediate-fire-damage-restoration-is-so-important/115003354947

Call SERVPRO of Grand Prairie at 972-602-1112. SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here 24/7 for all of your restoration needs.

Only Use A Fire Extinguisher If...

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

Here are a few tips to follow when using a fire extinguisher to prevent further damage to your home.

Fires are dangerous and extremely unpredictable. It can be easy to become anxious during a fire and lose control over the situation. 

Luckily, we now have access to disaster technology specifically designed to combat such situations with access to tools such as fire extinguishers and water hoses. It is important that we know exactly how and when to use them when the time comes. 

Here are a few tips to follow when using a fire extinguisher to prevent further damage to your home. 

Only Use A Fire Extinguisher If...

• If the Fire is contained in a small area, such as a waste basket and is not growing.
• If Everyone has exited the building. Fire extinguishers can be messy and cover a large area when sprayed. Dry chemical extinguishers are tanks of foam or dry powder. They work by smothering the fire. When you put a layer of powder or foam on the fire. If this foam is sprayed prematurely it will cause an obstruction and make it harder for people to escape the fire. 
• If the room is not filled with smoke. Be sure the fire department is called and on their way. You want to be sure that they will be arriving soon and you do not cause more of an obstruction for your family to view your escape path. 

If your home or office is suffering from fire or smoke damage call your local SERVPRO of Grand Prairie at (972)602-1112

Why You Should Not Put Water On Grease Fires

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

Put A Lid On Grease Fires!

We have all been there before. The baby is crying while you are making dinner and the children are restless and running around the dinner table. While your spouse is on their way home from a long day at work with their belly rumbling. 

Cooking can be challenging especially with our busy lives. You may be tired just getting home from work with a hungry family waiting to eat.

Cooking requires focus which can be a rare commodity this day in age distractions are endless.  It can be easy to get distracted while cooking and leave hot grease on the stove.

Did you know cooking accounts for over 45% of all home fires? When and if a fire happens in the home it is important that your family knows exactly what to do in that situation. 

Put A Lid on Grease Fires!

IF A GREASE FIRE STARTS:

• 1. Cover the flames with a metal lid or cookie sheet. Leave the cover on until it has cooled.
  2. Turn off the heat source. 
  3. If it’s small and manageable, pour baking soda or salt on it to smother the fire.
  4. As a last resort, spray the fire with a Class B dry chemical fire extinguisher.
  5. Do not try to extinguish the fire with water.
  6. Do not attempt to move the pot or pan outside. 

If your home is suffering from fire damage call your local SERVPRO of Grand Prairie at (972)602-1112

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie Smoke and Soot Cleanup

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot damage from a Grand Prairie home.

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Grand Prairie 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 – (972)602-1112

Home Fire Facts

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

Emergencies can strike at any time. Be sure that your family knows how to react!

At SERVPRO of Grand Prairie we understand that fires in the home can be devastating and that prevention is the best policy. It is for this reason that we have provided five fire facts to keep your family and home safe this summer! 

Home Fire Facts

• Half of home fire deaths result from fires reported between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. 
• One-quarter of home fire deaths were caused by fires that started in the bedroom. Another quarter resulted from fires in the living room, family room or den.
• Three out of five home fire deaths happen from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.
• Cooking equipment is the leading cause of home fire injuries, followed by heating equipment.
• Smoking materials are the leading cause of home fire deaths.

We hope that these fire facts will be instrumental in saving the lives of millions of Grand Prairie residents. After all education is key!

So, be sure not to leave cooking food unattended and remember to put out any candles that you may have around the house. Keep your smoke detectors full of batteries and ready to go! 

Gather your family and create an escape routine in case of a fire. According to an NFPA survey, only one-third of Americans have both developed and practiced a home fire escape plan.

Emergencies can strike at any time. Be sure that your family knows how to react! 

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call SERVPRO Grand Prairie–(972) 602-1112

How Handle a Fire Loss at a Commercial Building

12/14/2017 (Permalink)

A fire can be devastating to a commercial business, but after the fire truck and firefighters have left, the real work has just begun. What can a professional fire damage restoration company do for a business with commercial fire damage? We'll find out.

When the firefighters and fire trucks have cleared the building of a commercial fire, a trained fire damage specialist will inspect the site to see what materials were affected by smoke damage or soot damage. The building may not be safe for anyone to work in until a commercial fire damage specialist has started work. For example, the roof may need to be boarded up and spread with tarps for the safety and security of the workers. When there's an electrical fire or fire damage to the electrical system, generators may need to be installed for temporary power. A commercial fire damage company can remove burned trees as well.

A fire hose can pump thousands of gallons of water per minute, and that water will have to be removed before the work of fire restoration can really begin. If the fire sprinkler system does its job, it can stop a lot of fire damage before it occurs. A working fire suppression system is essential to reducing damage, but the fire suppression system can also drench everything, so a lot of water from the fire hoses or fire sprinkler system may need to be removed.

One area that needs to be handled carefully is smoke and soot damage. Soot Damage is a major problem after a commercial fire, discoloring anything close to the flames. Within hours, soot damage can turn fiberglass and appliance finishes yellow. Soot damage can also tarnish metals and cause corrosion. After a few days, the smoke damage will also permanently discolor upholstery, clothing, and walls. The lingering smell of smoke can be reduced by cleaning with the proper detergents or sealing up and removing objects that are too damaged. The sooner commercial fire damage professionals are brought in, the better.

A utility room fire will often require special attention because the fire might have started in the utility room because some utility room fires are caused by storage of flammable chemicals. With the fire extinguished, a utility room fire might have burned important equipment that will need to be repaired or replaced. There also may be an electrical fire in the utility room fire that needs to be dealt with. Smoke damage can also be concentrated in the utility room's small space.

An electrical fire could have burned much of the building, and the fire hoses and fire sprinkler system might have soaked the drywall and insulation, so a fire restoration professional may need to replace it to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Firefighters do a great job putting out fires, but they can't worry about the damage they leave behind. In some cases, the firefighters might have broken through walls or windows or the fire truck itself might have collided with the building, causing more damage. Fire restoration specialists will need to deal with that, too. The fire restoration professional can also look at the fire suppression system to make sure it will work the next time.

When it comes to hiring a commercial fire damage specialist, it's important to hire the best available. Fire restoration may involve a lot of work, because an electrical fire, soot damage, and smoke damage are all major problems, but the right professionals can take care of them. A fire sprinkler system or fire suppression system is critical to keep a fire from spreading, and a fire truck and a fire hose can save lives, but only a fire restoration professional can get a business running again.

Call SERVPRO Grand Prairie at 972-602-1112  for more information on fire damage.

Smoke and Soot Clean Up

12/12/2017 (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 Grand Prairie 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 – 972-602-1112

Christmas Tree Safety

12/12/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know that a spark can turn a dry Christmas tree into a torch within 12 seconds?

Christmas tree fires are rare, but they still account for roughly 200 home fires each year, destroying an annual $14 million in the process, the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) says. They're deadly, too, killing an average of six people yearly.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission released Christmas tree tips:

• Fresh, watered trees are much less likely to catch fire. So when buying a tree, look for branches with vibrant, green needles that don’t come off the branch easily.
• Make sure your tree is at least three feet from any heat source, like a fireplace, heat vent or candle.
• Water your tree daily.
• If you buy an artificial tree, make sure it’s labeled “fire resistant.”
• Do not forget to cut off 2 inches from the bottom of the tree to allow it to soak up water.

SERVPRO Grand Prairie would like to wish all of our customers and vendors a very Merry Christmas!

If you are need of our services during this holiday season SERVPRO Grand Prairie is on call 24/7.  Call our office at 972-602-1112. We are here to help!

Did you have a fire in your home?

8/18/2017 (Permalink)

When the cleaning of a fire becomes too much, we are here to help!

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 Grand Prairie 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 – 972-602-1112

Total Loss Fire Damage

11/1/2013 (Permalink)

Total Loss

All this damage was caused by an exhaust fan in a bathroom.