4 Fire Prevention Tips for Homeowners

6/27/2024 (Permalink)

If there is one common practice that everyone was taught in school it was to stop, drop, and roll in the case of a fire. While this common practice has been all but drilled into us in childhood there is one piece of information that is often forgotten in the midst of a fire, preparation. Being prepared in the case of a fire is your best bet for keeping yourself and your family safe. Here are five tips to prevent a fire.

1. Make sure that all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functional in your home. Just having a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector in your home is not enough. It is extremely important to verify that these instruments are working how they are intended too.
2. Invest in fire extinguishers and sprinklers. It is important to have fire extinguished and sprinklers in the home as they can help prevent the spread of small fires. A fire extinguisher should be used when a fire is confined to a small space.
3. Stay alert while cooking. Kitchen fires are very frequent causes of fires. It is important to know how to put out a grease fire. Grease fires is not to be doused in any kind of liquid. A liquid on a grease fire will only work to expand the already growing fire. A better method is if the fire is in a pan to cover it completely with a metal lid or a baking sheet. It is best to also call 911.
4. Have a plan. It is very important to not only be avidly working to have a preventative plan in case of a fire but to also to have an up to date backup plan. An escape plan is crucial to ensuring that individuals are calm and not panicked.

Despite how prepared one might be there are still events that result in fires that are uncontrollable. That is where SERVPRO® steps in to help. Fire clean up should be left up to a professional that can aid in minimizing the fire damage as much as possible.

If you need any help with fire clean up give SERVPRO of New Kent, Williamsburg, and Northern Neck call us at 804-966-1400!

Fire Damage - Tips While You Wait

6/27/2024 (Permalink)

When fire damage happens at your home or property it is a terrifying moment. So here are some tips to help you while you wait for our crews to reach your property:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.

• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.

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

• If electricity is off, empty freezer/fridge completely and prop doors opens to help prevent odor.

• Wipe soot from chrome kitchen/bathroom faucets, trim, appliances then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.

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

• Change HVAC filter; leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.

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

Experienced fire damage? Give SERVPRO of New Kent, Williamsburg, and Northern Neck  a call at 804-966-1400!

Deodorization

6/27/2024 (Permalink)

Deodorization

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized. Fire, smoke and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems.

As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hared to reach places. Unless fast professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in periodically resurfacing odors.

SERVPRO® professionals provide specialized services that rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. Any restorable item in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including: furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceiling, HVAC air ducts and more.

SERVPRO professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the sources of the odor. Ask SERVPRO professionals to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

If you suffer fire damage – or some other accident – and require deodorization services, contact us at 804-966-1400. Whether its fire, water or mold damage – or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away – we’ll help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Candle Fires

6/27/2024 (Permalink)

Candle Fires

The U.S. Fire Administration released a Topical Fire Research Report in July of 2006 entitled, “Candle Fires in Residential Structures”, which examines the causes and characteristics of residential candle fires. According to the report, candles are responsible for an estimated 23,600 residential structure fires annually resulting in $390 million in direct property loss. Candle sales and usage increase during the winter and holiday season and peak in December. Almost 25% of candle fires occur during December and January. The number one cause of candle fires is placement near combustibles. Typically, the items initially ignited by candles include furniture, curtains, bedding and cabinetry. In December, holiday decorations are the first to ignite. Most candle fires result from accidental error and negligence, such as leaving burning candles unattended. Caution, common sense and attention to your surroundings can help reduce the risk of candle fires.

Some Tips for Candles Usage:

• Ensure lit candles are in sturdy metal, glass, or ceramic candle holders and are placed where they cannot easily be knocked down

• Keep candles out of reach from children and pets

• Extinguish candles after us

• Blow out all candles before napping or falling asleep

• Never leave burning candles unattended

Experienced fire damage? Give SERVPRO of New Kent, Williamsburg, and Northern Neck give us a call at 804-966-1400!

General Fire Facts

6/27/2024 (Permalink)

Fire Preventative Tips:

• Install smoke alarms outside each sleeping area and every level of a home

• Check smoke alarms once per month an change the batteries at least once per year

• Plan an escape route and practice it at least twice per year

When our SERVPRO® franchise arrives on the scene follow a fire, their first step is to calm the customer’s fears. The second step is to pre-test smoke to determine what type of fire has taken place. Knowing the types of smoke and their behavior patterns is crucial.

Are you aware of the different types of smoke?

• Wet Smoke – Plastics & Rubber: low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smears.

• Dry Smoke – Paper & Wood: fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises, therefore the smoke rises.

• Protein Smoke – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire: virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

• Fuel Oil Soot – Furnace Puff Backs.

  Smoke and soot residue can damage carpet, upholstery and contents if not removed quickly and efficiently. In a fire-damaged structure with soot on the walls and other surfaces, cleaning and restoration is less disruptive and more cost-efficient than replacement. Replacement may also mean a longer disruption time than restoration. For a company waiting to open for business, this downtime can present an enormous hardship.

  Pre-testing helps to determine:

• The most effective cleaning and restoration processes

• Pre-existing conditions

• The extent of the loss

• Overall costs of the restoration process

• Replacements

• What is restorable and what must be replaced

  Give us a call today at 804-966-1400!

Is that a spiderweb?

6/24/2024 (Permalink)

Spider webs and soot tags are both common occurrences in homes after a fire or puffback, but they are distinctly different in their composition, appearance, and implications for cleaning and restoration.

Spider webs, as the name suggests, are naturally occurring structures spun by spiders. They consist of silk threads arranged in a radial pattern, often found in corners, ceilings, or other areas where spiders create their webs. In the aftermath of a fire or puffback, spider webs may become coated with soot and smoke residue, making them appear darker and more prominent. However, these webs are primarily organic in nature and can be easily removed through standard cleaning methods.

On the other hand, soot tags are not naturally occurring and are specific to fire or puffback incidents. Soot tags, also known as carbon black or soot webs, are formed when soot particles in the air accumulate and adhere to surfaces, creating dark, cobweb-like formations. Unlike spider webs, soot tags are composed of fine particulate matter mixed with oily residues from burned materials. They can be challenging to remove using conventional cleaning methods due to their composition and tendency to smear if not handled properly.

When faced with the aftermath of a fire, soot or a puffback, calling a professional restoration service like SERVPRO of New Kent, Williamsburg & Northern Neck is essential for several reasons:

1. Expertise: SERVPRO® technicians are trained and certified in fire and smoke restoration techniques. We have the knowledge and experience to assess the extent of the damage, identify the best course of action, and implement effective cleaning and restoration procedures.

2. Specialized Equipment: SERVPRO utilizes specialized equipment and techniques to remove soot, smoke odor, and other residues from surfaces and belongings. This includes HEPA vacuums, ozone generators, and thermal foggers designed to neutralize odors and eliminate contaminants.

3. Comprehensive Restoration: SERVPRO offers comprehensive restoration services, addressing not only visible damage but also hidden issues such as water damage from firefighting efforts or secondary mold growth. We ensure that your property is thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and restored to pre-fire condition.

4. Time and Cost Savings: Attempting to clean up fire or puffback damage on your own can be time-consuming, labor-intensive, and potentially ineffective. By entrusting the restoration process to professionals, you can save time, minimize further damage, and reduce overall costs in the long run.

In conclusion, while spider webs and soot tags may appear similar at first glance, they differ significantly in composition and origin. When faced with fire or puffback damage, calling a reputable restoration service like SERVPRO of New Kent, Williamsburg & Northern Neck is crucial for prompt and effective cleanup and restoration. our expertise, specialized equipment, and comprehensive approach ensure that your home is restored to its preloss condition safely and efficiently.

Grilling Safety Tips

6/24/2024 (Permalink)

U.S. Grilling Statistics

Seven out of every ten people in the United States have a grill or smoker? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), between 2014 and 2018, fire departments responded to over 8,900 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbecues per year.

SERVPRO of New Kent, Williamsburg & Northern Neck responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year  and we offer these grilling safety tips from the NFPA to help you stay safe while grilling on a charcoal grill:

Charcoal Grill Safety

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as fuel.
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources
• There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container

Call SERVPRO® Today!

SERVPRO of New Kent, Williamsburg & Northern Neck offers a full range of fire restoration and deodorization services to return your home or commercial business to preloss condition with minimal disruption. Call us today at 804-966-1400 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Extinguisher

6/24/2024 (Permalink)

Hopefully you will never be in a situation where you will need it, but it is important to understand the proper techniques for fire extinguisher use in order to keep your home safe and be able to respond in case of emergency.

It is always important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on candles, gas logs, cooking elements and overloaded outlets.

Extension cords should never be connected to another extension cord. It is important to distribute the electricity on an outlet properly and not plug too many items in one.

Everyone loves to burn candles while entertaining guest or family or friends; here are some tips to keep your home safe:

Make sure you never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire. Keep burning candles away from furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, paper, flammable decorations, etc.

With candles also remember children and pets. Always keep them out of reach and remember to trim candlewicks each time before burning recommend ¼ inch.

Check your Fire Extinguisher frequently to make sure it's in proper working order.  Fire extinguishers can expire, or loose their pressure.  Inspect your Fire Extinguisher before you need it to make sure it's in proper working condition. 

If you find yourself in need to use a fire extinguisher, remember to P.A.S.S

• Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
• Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Also, R.A.C.E

RESCUE, ALARM, CONFINE, EXTINGUISH/EVACUATE.

SERVPRO® wants you to be prepared and know the importance of fire safety!  If something happens and you need our help, we are a phone call away. SERVPRO of New Kent, Williamsburg, & Northern Neck 804-966-1400 or toll free 1-800-889-5002

P.A.S.S. Method

6/24/2024 (Permalink)

Having a fire extinguisher in your home can be very useful for preventing an extensive fire damage. It is very important to know how to use it properly.  Misuse of the fire extinguisher can result in injury and unnecessary damage. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration suggest that users use the P.A.S.S. technique when operating a fire extinguisher.

Pull: Pull the pin

Aim: Aim low, pointing the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire

Squeeze: Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent

Sweep: Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire until it appears to be out. Watch the area. If fire re-ignites repeat steps 2-4.

Inspect your fire extinguisher at least once a year to make sure it hasn't expired, when it has expired replace and expose of the old one properly. (Most Fire Stations can help advise on the best way to dispose of expired fire extinguishers.) 

If you experience any fire or smoke damage in your home or business and need remediation give SERVPRO® a call. SERVPRO Of New Kent, Williamsburg, & Northern Neck call us today if you need help with a fire damage at 804-966-1400.

What is an air scrubber, and why do you use it?

6/24/2024 (Permalink)

This specialty piece of machinery creates a safe working environment for the crews that are working in the damaged environment. Air scrubbers can also can prevent damage from spreading to other structural building materials and to help limit contents from absorbing the odors. 

These devices are utilized to remove 99.97% of particulate in the air down to .03 microns.  An air scrubber can be useful on mold, fire, water and sewage jobs.  They can also help to remove odors when a charcoal filter is installed. 

This is achieved by changing over the air in the damaged structure at a minimum of three to four times per hour.  We accomplish this by setting up the machines under positive air flow or negative air flow.  Which type of air flow needed is determined by the situation and or the severity of the job.  This specialty piece of equipment helps  SERVPRO® crews reduce or eliminate smoke or soot residue, ash particles and any other residues which are present after a fire or water damage. 

If you have questions or need help with any deodorization, please call SERVPRO of New Kent, Williamsburg, & Northern Neck 804-966-1400!

Do you own a fire extinguisher? Do you know how to use it?

6/24/2024 (Permalink)

Hopefully you will never be in a situation where you will need it, but it is important to understand the proper techniques for fire extinguisher use in order to keep your home safe and be able to respond in case of emergency.

 With the holidays in full swing, it is important to be aware of your surrounds and keeping an eye out on candles, gas logs, cooking elements and overloaded outlets.

Extension cords should not be connected to another extension cord. When decorating this year, it is important to distribute the outlet usage and not plug too many items in one.

Everyone loves to burn candles while entertaining guest or family or friends just some tips to remember this year Make sure you never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire. Keep burning candles away from furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, paper, flammable decorations, etc.

With candles also remember children and pet, always keep them out of reach and remember to trim candlewicks each time before burning recommend ¼ inch

To operate a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS:

1. Pull– Pull the pin from the top of the fire extinguisher near the handle. This pin is in place to prevent the handle from being depressed when the extinguisher is not in use. You should also immediately test the extinguisher after this to ensure that it works and get an idea of how far the stream goes.
2. Aim – Approach the fire while remaining safely as far as way as the extinguisher’s stream will allow you to and aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
3. Squeeze- Squeeze the handles of the extinguisher together to begin discharging the extinguishing agent.
4. Sweep – Sweep the nozzle side to side as you approach closer to the fire making sure that the extinguishing agent is consistently aimed at the base of the flames.

Check your Fire Extinguisher frequently to make sure it's in proper working order.  This is one of those situations where "out of sight out of mind" could be dangerous. 

SERVPRO of New Kent, Williamsburg, & Northern Neck want you to be prepared and know the importance of fire safety!  If something happens and your need our help, SERVPRO® is just a phone call away. 804-966-1400!

Bonfire Safety in New Kent County

6/24/2024 (Permalink)

Bonfires can be outdoor fun no matter the season. Residents of New Kent can have their very own small bonfire. The New Kent County Code states that homeowners can burn small piles of yard debris, leaves, and brush between 4pm and 12am as long as they meet these requirements:

• The burning pile is 50 feet or more away from the dwelling.
• It is in a controlled pile where there is no opportunity for fire spread.
• The burning pile must not contain any refuse of plastics, rubber, hazardous materials, or petroleum products.
• Any pile larger than normal household brush clearance MUST have a permit issued from the Fire Marshal's office, especially burning for the purposes of land clearing. If a permit is required, it MUST be obtained by the Fire Marshal's office at least 14 days prior to the start of burning.

There are also some general safety precautions to bonfires in general:

• Check the weather. Never build a bonfire on a high-wind night.
• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby in case the fire begins to spread. It is important to be prepared in case of emergency.
• Keep a close eye on the bonfire as well as children nearby. This will help protect others around you.
• Do not burn aerosols, canisters or anything containing foam or paint. These types of chemicals have extremely flammable ingredients that can cause fire to spread or produce toxic fumes. Containers of these products could explode, causing injury.
• Ensure the wood you are burning is dry and seasoned. This means no railroad ties, nothing coated or treated and no furniture should be thrown in the fire.
• The pile shouldn't be bigger than 5' x 5' to keep the flames containable.

The most important part of a successful bonfire is making sure that it is put out properly. After the bonfire is done, turn over the charred materials with metal shovels and rakes, and douse the area with water. Once you extinguish your fire with water, gently stir and spread the ashes to cool. Leave only when they’re cool to the touch.

Follow these safety tips to have a fun and successful bonfire. 

Fire Prevention Tips

6/24/2024 (Permalink)

• Install smoke alarms outside each sleeping area and every level of a home

• Check smoke alarms once per month an change the batteries at least once per year

• Plan an escape route and practice it at least twice per year

When our SERVPRO® franchise arrives on the scene following a fire, the first step is to ease the customer. The second step is to pre-test smoke to determine what type of fire has taken place. Knowing the types of smoke and their behavior patterns is crucial.

Are you aware of the different types of smoke?

• Wet Smoke – Plastics & Rubber: low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smears.

• Dry Smoke – Paper & Wood: fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises, therefore the smoke rises.

• Protein Smoke – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire: virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

• Fuel Oil Soot – Furnace Puff Backs.

  Smoke and soot residue can damage carpet, upholstery and contents if not removed quickly and efficiently. In a fire-damaged structure with soot on the walls and other surfaces, cleaning and restoration is less disruptive and more cost-efficient than replacement. Replacement may also mean a longer disruption time than restoration. For a company waiting to open for business, this downtime can present an enormous hardship.

  Pre-testing helps to determine:

• The most effective cleaning and restoration processes

• Pre-existing conditions

• The extent of the loss

• Overall costs of the restoration process

• Replacements

• What is restorable and what must be replaced

If you need any help with fire clean up give SERVPRO of New Kent, Williamsburg, and Northen Neck a call at 804-966-1400  or toll free at 1-800-889-5002!

We are always here to help you in your time of need

Williamsburg Smoke & Soot Cleanup

6/24/2024 (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® 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 – SERVPRO of New Kent, Williamsburg, and Northern Neck

call us today at 804-966-1400

Space Heater Safety

6/24/2024 (Permalink)

Space heaters are designed to supplement cold rooms and must be used with extreme caution. According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), nearly half of all home heating fires occur during the peak months of December, January, and February.

According to NFPA - Space heaters are the type of heating equipment most often involved in home heating fires, figuring in two of every five of these fires and accounting for 86% of associated civilian deaths, 78% of civilian injuries, and 54% of direct property damage.

General Guidelines for Space Heater Safety

There are several ways people can prevent accidental fires in their homes. One of the most important is to select heaters that have been tested and certified by testing laboratories. Also, keep areas around the heat source free of paper and trash.

When choosing the placement of the heater, remember the three feet safety rule by keeping everything that can burn at least three feet away from the heat source. Only use the heaters to heat the small space. 

Place the space heater on a hard level nonflammable surface, never on carpet, blankets, or rugs. Never use a defective heater or one that is missing its heating element guard. Make sure you use the proper size space heater for the room.

When purchasing a new space heater, look for a model with an automatic shut-off in case the heater is left on too long. In addition, a tip-switch will automatically cut off the heat if the unit topples over. Even with the safety features, never leave the heater on when sleeping, out of the room, or away from home.

Give SERVPRO of New Kent, Williamsburg, Northern New Kent a call at 804-966-1400!