Steps to Take After a House Fire: A Comprehensive Restoration Guide

7/12/2024 (Permalink)

Demo and reconstruction after house fire

A house fire can be a devastating event, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. Knowing the steps to take immediately after a fire can help you begin the restoration process and get back on your feet.

Ensure Safety First

1. Wait for the All-Clear: Do not re-enter your home until the fire department has declared it safe.
2. Protect Yourself: Wear protective gear such as gloves, masks, and sturdy shoes to avoid injury from debris or contaminants.
3. Turn Off Utilities: If safe to do so, turn off utilities to prevent further hazards.

Document the Damage

1. Take Photos and Videos: Document the damage extensively for insurance purposes. This will help in filing claims and getting the necessary repairs covered.
2. Make an Inventory: List damaged items, noting their condition and approximate value.

Contact Your Insurance Company

1. File a Claim: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to file a claim. Provide them with the documentation and inventory you have compiled.
2. Meet with the Adjuster: An adjuster will assess the damage. Accompany them during the inspection to ensure all damage is noted.

Secure Your Property

1. Board Up Windows and Doors: Protect your home from further damage or theft by boarding up broken windows and doors.
2. Cover the Roof: Use tarps to cover any holes in the roof to prevent water damage from rain.

Begin the Restoration Process

1. Hire a Professional Restoration Company: Professional restoration services have the expertise to handle fire damage, smoke damage, and water damage from firefighting efforts.
2. Remove Soot and Smoke Residue: Professionals use specialized equipment to remove soot and smoke residue from surfaces, fabrics, and the air.
3. Clean and Sanitize: Thorough cleaning and sanitizing are essential to remove harmful contaminants and odors.
4. Repair and Rebuild: The final step is to repair structural damage and rebuild areas that were destroyed.

Emotional Recovery

1. Seek Support: A house fire is a traumatic event. Seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors to help cope with the emotional aftermath.

Conclusion

Taking the right steps after a house fire can make a significant difference in the restoration process. Ensuring safety, documenting damage, securing your property, and hiring professional restoration services are crucial for getting your home back to normal. Remember, you're not alone—there are resources and support available to help you through this challenging time.

When to Seek Team Shaw's Emergency Fire Restoration Services in Grapevine, Texas

1/29/2024 (Permalink)

In the aftermath of a fire, the path to recovery can feel overwhelming, but with Team Shaw in Grapevine, Texas, by your side, you're not alone. Our dedicated team specializes in emergency fire restoration services, offering a swift and comprehensive response to help you rebuild and reclaim your space. Here are situations that warrant reaching out to Team Shaw for immediate assistance.

1. Recent Fire Incidents

If your property has recently experienced a fire, it is crucial to contact Team Shaw promptly. Even after the flames are extinguished, immediate action is needed to assess the damage and initiate the fire restoration process.

2. Smoke and Soot Residue

Smoke and soot residues can extend far beyond the visible fire-damaged areas. Lingering odors, discolored walls, and damaged belongings are signs that comprehensive fire restoration services are necessary. Team Shaw specializes in removing smoke and soot residues, ensuring a thorough cleanup.

3. Water Damage from Firefighting Efforts

The water used to extinguish a fire can result in additional damage. If your property has been affected by water damage during firefighting efforts, Team Shaw's emergency response includes water extraction, drying, and restoration to prevent mold growth and further destruction.

4. Structural Damage

Fire can compromise the structural integrity of a building. Signs such as weakened walls, sagging ceilings, or visible structural damage require immediate attention. Team Shaw's expertise in structural restoration ensures a safe and resilient rebuilding process.

5. Emergency Board-Up and Roof Tarping

After a fire, your property may be vulnerable to the elements. Team Shaw provides emergency board-up and roof tarping services to secure your property, preventing further damage from weather conditions and intruders.

6. Content Cleaning and Restoration

Belongings affected by fire and smoke require specialized attention. If your personal items, furniture, or valuables have been damaged, Team Shaw's content cleaning and restoration services aim to salvage and restore as much as possible.

7. Insurance Claims Assistance

Navigating insurance claims can be complex, especially in the aftermath of a fire. Team Shaw provides support in documenting the damage, communicating with your insurance company, and ensuring a smooth claims process for a faster recovery.

Why Choose Team Shaw for Emergency Fire Restoration:

1. Immediate 24/7 Response: Team Shaw operates round the clock, providing immediate emergency response to assess the fire damage and initiate the restoration process.

2. Specialized Equipment: Our state-of-the-art equipment is tailored for fire restoration, including smoke and odor removal, structural drying, and comprehensive cleanup.

3. Experienced Fire Restoration Team: With years of experience in fire restoration, Team Shaw's experts understand the unique challenges presented by different types of fires and employ effective strategies for restoration.

4. Full-Service Restoration: From structural repairs to content cleaning and insurance claims assistance, Team Shaw offers a full spectrum of services to restore your property and peace of mind.

If you find yourself facing the aftermath of a fire in Grapevine, Texas, Team Shaw is your steadfast partner for emergency fire restoration. Contact us immediately for a swift and effective response, allowing us to guide you through the restoration journey and help you rise from the ashes.

Your guide to fire damage restoration in Southlake, Texas

1/25/2023 (Permalink)

Smoke damage caused by a house fire.

Fire damage can be devastating for any home or business. If you’ve experienced a fire in Southlake, Texas, then you’re probably wondering how you can restore your property. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help make the recovery process smoother. Let’s take a look at a few of the most important things you should know about fire damage restoration in Southlake. 

Assess the Damage 

The first step is to assess the damage caused by the fire. This means taking stock of what was damaged or destroyed and what needs to be repaired or replaced. Make sure that all structural damage caused by the fire is noted and addressed before anything else is done. Also, don’t forget to notate all areas affected by smoke damage; it can cause significant long-term problems if left untreated. 

Secure Your Property 

After assessing the damage, it’s important to secure your property so no further harm comes to it while you’re waiting for professional help to arrive. This means boarding up windows and doors, tarping over exposed areas of the roof, and taking other steps to minimize any additional destruction from weather or animals. 

Hire Professional Help 

Once your property is secure, it’s time to hire professionals who specialize in fire damage restoration in Southlake, Texas. It’s essential that you work with an experienced team who can provide reliable service and achieve desired results fast—time constraints are often key when restoring damaged properties after a fire. Professionals will also have access to specialized tools and techniques that may not be available elsewhere—tools like ozone generators which can help eliminate smoke odors more effectively than other methods. 

Keep in mind – you’ll also want to look for a restoration company in Southlake that has in-depth experience dealing with insurance companies. This can make a huge difference in the fire damage restoration process.

No one wants their home or business affected by a fire; however, if it does happen it’s important to know how best to proceed with restoration efforts. By following these steps—assessing the damage, securing your property, and hiring professional help—you will have taken major strides toward restoring your property back to its pre-fire condition as quickly as possible! If you need assistance with fire damage restoration in Southlake, Texas – contact us today - we’d love to help!

Simple steps to handle fire damage restoration

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant Co explains what property owners should do after fire damage.

One of the worst things that can happen to you and your family is having your home burned down. Even a minor fire can destroy things you've worked hard to obtain.

The house and its belongings can be harmed by soot, debris, and even firefighting water. So it will require you to take appropriate steps to get your property back to normal after the fire has been put off.

The team at SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant Co offers fire damage restoration services in Grapevine. Their fire damage restoration specialists have put together the following fire damage restoration checklist:

1. Call fire restoration service fast

After the fire has been put out and everyone has been cleared to go, contact your insurance provider and landlord or mortgage lender to report the fire, then take the necessary action as advised. Typically, you’ll need to hire a fire damage restoration company.

Avoid attempting to fix the property on your own. For everyone's safety, you must allow professionals to enter the building first. Fire remediation has a protocol. You never know how the house will look or how strong the structures will be after a fire. 

2. Fire damage evaluation

A fire damage restoration service must evaluate the damage, and any subsequent water intrusion after ensuring the property is safe to access. In most cases, this entails assessing how deeply the smoke and flames have permeated the property and how extensive any necessary cleanup will likely be.

This process also includes evaluating the inside of the property's contents to identify what you should throw away and what might be restored. A thorough evaluation will give the restoration company a clearer understanding of the job requirements, how much it will cost, and the time needed to complete the restoration. 

3. Remove debris, water, and soot

Long after the fire has been extinguished, water, smoke, and soot can still cause harm. Also, the water used to put out the fire can cause rot, mold, and mildew, in addition to leaving puddles on floors and saturated walls.

Once it has been determined that it is safe to enter the building, the next step is to remove the toxins that could continue to discolor and damage your possessions. Dry out any standing water using fans and humidifiers.

4. Thorough cleaning and deodorization

Depending on the properties to be recovered and the degree of damage, you’ll need strong cleaning agents to wash everything.

The cleaning process should be very comprehensive to eliminate most stains and odors.

Clean and shampoo carpets and remove and wash fabrics like curtains and furniture.

You’ll also need to thoroughly clean any unharmed walls, ceilings, floors, appliances, counters, and other surfaces in the damaged area to eliminate any signs of fire.

5. Property restoration and rebuild

Making repairs or rebuilding fire-damaged areas is the last step in restoring a property to its preloss condition. Certain portions of the building might be significantly damaged beyond repair, necessitating their replacement.

This step may include repairing and replacing the roof, replacing and painting the drywall, restoring the electrical system, replacing interior fixtures, changing the flooring, etc.

The complete restoration process may just take a few days or weeks for smaller house fires, whereas it may take many months or even longer for larger fires.

Work with Professional Fire Damage Restoration Services in Grapevine

SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant Co is well-equipped to handle your fire and smoke damage cleanup requirements. They are committed to working quickly and effectively to restore your property to a habitable state.

They boast experienced specialists in property restoration who undergo frequent training to stay updated on the most recent tools, procedures, and methodologies. They are available 24/7 to meet your restoration needs.

Call SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant Co today at (817) 595-2506 to get started.

SERVPRO: 9 firework safety measures to take this July

6/17/2022 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO blog suggests some firework safety tips for the July 4th celebrations.

9 fire safety tips for this 4th of July celebrations

The National Safety Council records an average of 18,500 fires each year started by fireworks. With the 4th of July holiday celebrated across the country with fireworks as one of the highlights, fire safety becomes a huge concern. Although public firework shows are one of the safest ways to enjoy fireworks, people often set up their own fireworks. SERVPRO, a fire damage restoration company, shares some important firework safety tips for this independence day celebration.

1. Carefully read the instructions on the fireworks’ packaging before lighting them. 
2. Fireworks must be lit in open areas that are clear of homes, vehicles, and flammable materials.
3. Keep children and pets away at a safe distance when lighting fireworks. Children should not be allowed to ignite firecrackers and sparklers that are known to cause more than one-quarter of the firework injuries.
4. Light one firecracker at a time. Allow half-burnt fireworks to cool down before discarding them. Do not try to reignite the “dud” to avoid accidental injury. 
5. A water hose or bucket of water must be kept nearby in case the fireworks ignite a fire.
6. Fireworks must not be used by people who are impaired in any way or are under the influence of alcohol as intoxication can slow down reaction time and reflexes. 
7. Always wear eye protection when lighting fireworks.
8. Avoid lighting crackers when it’s windy as the wind can carry the sparks to nearby trees and structures and cause a fire. 
9. Light fireworks from a distance. No part of the body should be over the firecracker when lighting the fuse. 

Besides the above-mentioned precautions, it is important to store fireworks carefully to avoid fires at homes. 

Tips to store fireworks

1. Ideally, fireworks should be locked in a storage shed away from the house and living areas.
2. Fireworks must be stored in a dry area. If, however, it is impossible to do so, the fireworks must be sealed tightly in plastic bags or non-flammable containers with a sachet of silica gel or desiccant to absorb the moisture.
3. Never store fireworks in self-storage units.
4. Keep flammable materials such as oils and sources of heat such as gas stoves away from where the firecrackers are stored. The storage area must be cool.
5. Lock away the fireworks to keep away small children or pets.

These fire safety precautions can prevent fires and keep your home and family safe. In case of fire damage events, property owners can contact SERVPRO’s technicians who can restore the property to its original state swiftly and efficiently.

Why SERVPRO?

Established in 1967, SERVPRO is a renowned and trusted brand that uses state-of-the-art equipment and the most updated technologies to restore properties to their preloss state. Here are the reasons why SERVPRO has been one of the best property restoration companies in Grapevine/NE Tarrant County:

Swift emergency response

SERVPRO and its 1,900 US and Canadian franchise locations allow for a swift and efficient response to emergencies of any magnitude. This emergency service allows for a swift arrest of any damage caused by fire, water, or storms. This helps prevent further and secondary damages to the property and saves huge repair costs, energy and time. 

State-of-the-art technology 

SERVPRO constantly updates its fleet and equipment thereby offering the best-in-class service to its clients in Southlake, Grapevine, and Keller. Its state-of-the-art equipment is used to bring the damaged property back to its preloss state efficiently and swiftly. 

Certification

Certified by IICRC, SERVPRO not only invests in initial in-house staff training but also emphasizes on constant upgradation of its technicians’ skills at its corporate training facility.

For fire damage restoration services, call SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant County today at (817) 595-2506 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com

SERVPRO: Important FAQs answered for property owners who have experienced a fire damage event

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

Blog summary: A fire event can be a mentally traumatic experience and make it hard for homeowners to make the right decisions. The SERVPRO blog shares the answers to many common questions regarding fire damage.

Frequently asked questions on fire damage

Fire is a dangerous and life-altering event. It can leave the inhabitants of a home or the owners of a commercial building mentally, emotionally, and financially stressed. When such life-threatening incidents take place, it becomes hard to think clearly and make the right calls. SERVPRO, a fire damage restoration company in Southlake, sheds light on some important and frequently asked questions that can help property owners make better decisions post-fire.

Here’s a list of some FAQs

1. 1. What should be my first step after a fire?

Once the fire has been extinguished by the fire department, the owners must ensure the safety of all inhabitants. Fire damage restoration experts must be contacted immediately to assess the damage and begin the restoration work. The insurance company must also be informed of the fire incident.

2. Do I need to relocate during the fire damage restoration process?

Some fires are limited to a small area while others spread across the whole space leading to structural damage. Immediately after the fire, residents must not re-enter without the approval of the authority. In case of severe damage, residents are usually unable to access basic amenities like water. The smell of smoke and noise disruption caused by the restoration procedures are neither comfortable nor safe. Relocation is recommended until it is safe.

3. How long is the fire damage restoration process?

This depends on the extent of the fire damage repairs needed. Structural damage requires restoring parts of drywall or ceiling or a complete replacement and building of structures. The water damage caused by the fire extinguishing activity and the delay caused in beginning the restoration process are other factors that decide the time needed to restore the property. Commercial spaces take longer to restore compared to homes due to their larger area and the inspection code of the city.

4. Should I take my belongings with me?

When a property undergoes massive fire damage, the structure is often unstable or does not allow for a situation wherein the residents can carry the contents with them during relocation. Professional fire damage restoration companies like SERVPRO will create an inventory list and send the contents for restoration to their advanced restoration facility. Valuables that are undamaged such as coins, artwork, personal documents, checkbooks, cash, credit cards, and medications can be taken by the residents.

5. Can I help the team in the fire damage restoration process?

Property owners may want to assist the restoration team in expediting the process but they may unknowingly worsen the situation. Household cleaning agents for instance can cause the residue to smear and seep further into the damaged contents. It is advised to wait for the professional restoration team that has the know-how, advanced equipment, and resources to safely restore a property. 

6. Can I use electronics or switch on the HVAC?

Until the team has inspected the electronics and the HVAC unit and approved them for use, homeowners must refrain from using them. The fire extinguishing activity and the fire itself may have damaged the wires in the wall and can be dangerous. Turning on HVACS may end up circulating the soot and smoke particles throughout the house thereby causing potential health effects.   

Why SERVPRO? 

• SERVPRO is a fire damage restoration company that uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County is constantly updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, or surrounding areas can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For fire restoration services, contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County at (817) 595-2506 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com

SERVPRO: Fire safety tips that college campuses must follow to avoid fire damage

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO blog gives insight into the preventative measures that campuses must adopt to prevent fires and the associated smoke damage. 

Fire damage restoration company gives fire safety tips for college campuses

Whether it is home or a college campus, students must be aware of the precautionary measures that must be taken to prevent fires. However, college campuses are different from homes, with their larger areas and unique protocols. Fires are not only life-threatening, but they also entail huge economic losses. One of the byproducts of fire damage is smoke damage that leaves a long-lasting impact on the affected property. SERVPRO, a fire damage restoration company, shares some statistics about campus fires across the United States as well as critical fire safety measures that the college staff and students must know and follow. 

Campus fires across the country

• 94 percent of fatal campus fires do not begin on campus.
• Smoking was the cause of 29 percent of the fatal campus fires.
• 76 percent of fatal campus fires were due to alcohol.
• Smoke alarms were absent or tampered with in 58 percent of the fatal campus fires that failed to alert authorities or the fire department. 
• There was no fire sprinkler installation in 85 fatal campus fires.
• 70 percent of fatal campus fires occurred on the weekend while 73 percent occurred between midnight and 6 am.
• April was the month when 13 percent of the fatal fires occurred in the campus housing.

The National Fire Protection Association or NFPA and its partners offer vast resources of fire safety information to educate staff, students, and parents. It is crucial to be aware of these facts and preventative measures to prevent fire and smoke damage as well as avoid the fire damage restoration costs. 

6 Fire Safety Tips to Prevent Fire Damage on College Campuses

1. Learn the evacuation routes: Students and staff must regularly participate in all fire drills and memorize the evacuation protocols and evacuation routes. Constant review of this information is necessary to ensure correct routes are followed if and when a fire does occur. 

2. Identify the nearest fire alarm: Students or staff must be aware of the location of the fire alarm to be able to alert the campus and the fire department at the earliest. In case the fire alarm is too far or can’t be located at the time of the fire, dorm authorities must be immediately informed.

3. Smoke detectors can save the day: Fires often go unnoticed until it's too late to control them or evacuate. With the help of a well-maintained smoke detector in every living room and dorm room, the campus residents and visitors can be alerted and evacuated in a timely and safe fashion. These smoke alarms must be constantly checked to ensure they have not been disabled by students. If the alarm has been disabled due to some problem, the college’s safety or maintenance department must be informed promptly.

4. Clear the fire exits: Dorms can be limited in space and therefore their entries, lobbies, and exits must always be clear of any hindrances as this can delay the evacuation and escape. 

5. Train to use a fire extinguisher: A fire extinguisher can be a lifesaver in situations where a fire blocks the exit. During an evacuation, students or staff can use the extinguisher to save their lives and those around them. Learning how to use fire extinguishers as a part of the fire safety training can be very helpful because during a fire emergency understanding instructions and implementing them correctly can be challenging. 

6. No pranks: Practical jokes that can endanger lives or property must be avoided. Fake alarms can lead to real fire events being taken lightly. This “cry wolf” scenario must be avoided at all costs. 

College campus authorities can get in touch with a fire damage contractor to help review and maintain their premises for fire safety or install the best fire safety equipment. Fire restoration companies such as SERVPRO  located in Keller offer fire restoration services that can help return the damaged property to its original glory.

Why SERVPRO?

Faster to Any Size Emergency

No matter where and how big the disaster is, SERVPRO offers fire damage restoration services across 1,700 US and Canadian franchise locations swiftly. The vast network of resources available to SERVPRO enables it to act immediately and efficiently. A 24X7 emergency response gives SERVPRO the ability to arrest any disaster quickly and save huge amounts of money, time, and energy. 

Advanced Technology 

SERVPRO is a fire damage restoration company that uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant County is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

Certified Professionals

The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in the fire damage restoration process and other restoration services. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For fire damage restoration services, contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County at (817) 595-2506 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com

SERVPRO: The why of a smoky fireplace

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO blog investigates the causes of a smoky fireplace in a house. It also shares how homeowners can prevent this serious problem.

Do not ignore a smoky fireplace 

A fireplace in the cold winter months is a delight and a necessity. However, a smoky fireplace can be disruptive and a serious safety issue in a home. Smoke can easily permeate carpeting, furniture, and other fabrics causing smoke odors that are hard to remove. SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant Co. discusses the causes of fireplace smoke in a home. 

When a fireplace and chimney vent are working well, fire by-products like smoke, vapor, or unburned wood are pushed upwards in the flue (the vertical passage the smoke and air exits through) while the outside air is pulled into it. This exchange of gases keeps flames alive along with keeping the smoke out of the house. 

When the fireplace or the chimney has a problem, the smoke billows into the house and becomes a health hazard besides damaging home articles with smoke odor. Here are the common causes of fireplace smoke:

1. Closed Damper

A damper is a small mechanism that seals the chimney when it’s not being used. One of the common reasons for smoke to enter the house is when the damper is not opened before starting a fire in the fireplace.

When the damper is closed while a fire is burning, the smoke has no exit but the inside of a house. This smoke can fill up all interior spaces. 

It is important to ensure the damper is completely open when the fireplace is in use. 

There are two main types of dampers namely throat dampers and top-seal dampers. 

1. Cast-iron throat dampers are located above the firebox at the base of the smoke chamber. Be careful while opening it as it will be hot to touch if the fire has been burning for a while. 
2. The top-seal damper is placed over the chimney, completely sealing it off. It can be opened or closed using a handle located on the side of the chimney.   

2. Chimney Blockage

A blocked chimney could be caused by anything from animal nests to creosote buildup, which can cause the fireplace to not vent properly. Ideally, homeowners must get their chimney inspected and professionally cleaned to avoid blockages, and avoid smoke entering the house.

3. Insufficient Venting

Old-fashioned chimneys may require additional venting materials to enable the air to flow up and out of them. Since today’s wood-burning appliances produce more gases than ever before, the appliances require larger flues than those originally built into homes decades ago.  

The solution is to install an outside air supply vent or an exhaust fan with a power supply that’s large enough to handle a fireplace. 

4. Unseasoned Firewood

“Seasoning firewood” is the process of drying it out, which enables efficient burning. Wood stored in a shed or garage with little airflow would not allow sufficient seasoning, cause mold and mildew, and lead to more smoke than usual when burning. 

Store the firewood outside and off the ground to ensure sufficient airflow and reduce moisture. 

5. Cold Flue 

A cold flue or cold air in the chimney can force smoke back down into a house as colder air is denser.

This may happen when the fireplace is being used after a long time and it has been a cold few days. Homeowners can prime the chimney before lighting a full fire by burning some newspaper, kindling, or lighting the gas starter before adding the actual logs. This will warm up the flue and make way for smoke.

Slightly cracking a window or door open for the first few minutes of lighting a fireplace can release the negative air pressure within the home that has been tightly sealed. 

In scenarios where the smoke has entered a home and the odor has permeated into the furniture and furnishings, homeowners must contact professional fire damage restoration services such as SERVPRO to make the house free of all odor and smoke. The SERVPRO technicians have access to several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant County is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For fire damage restoration and odor removal services, contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant County today at (817) 595-2506 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com

What are the common causes of home fires in winters?

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO blog explains the common causes of winter fires that homeowners must watch out for.

Winter fires: Usual suspects

As the winters and the holiday season arrives, fire safety becomes an important issue. During this time, there is an increased risk of fires and other hazards, including carbon monoxide and electrical fires. SERVPRO, a fire damage restoration company, discusses the various causes of winter fires that homeowners must watch out for.

• Heating equipment

Heating is the second leading cause of US home fires and home fire injuries and the third leading cause of home fire deaths. The winter months of December, January, and February are when fires peak in the country. These fires can spark when a heater is too close to combustible materials or when the device malfunctions mechanically or electrically. Space heaters account for more than two of every five fires (44%), as well as the vast majority of deaths and injuries in home fires caused by heating equipment. 

Turn off space heaters before leaving a room and make sure space heaters have at least three feet of clearance from everything in the house.

Furnaces need a special mention here. To avoid chimney fires, a qualified professional should inspect the chimney and vents every year. The cooled ashes from the fireplace must be stored tightly covered in a metal container and the container should be placed outside, at least 10 feet away from the house and any other buildings. The fireplace must be cleared of anything that might catch flame, and should never be left with fire, unattended. 

• Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas created that builds up in enclosed or partially closed spaces by burning fuel such as gas, wood, and propane in various appliances and machines. These appliances include stoves, fireplaces, gas ranges, lawnmowers, electric generators, cars, and more. Installing a CO detector and regular inspection of all heating appliances is recommended to protect from carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Generators

Portable generators are indispensable when power outages occur during winter storms. However, the improper use of portable generators can lead to dangers such as carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, electrical shock or electrocution, and fire hazards. Statistics show that half of the generator-related deaths happened in the four coldest months of the year, November through February.

• Candles

The holiday season brings in a lot of candle burning with December being the peak time. Each year between 2013-2017, an average of 7,900 home candle fires were reported each year. Homeowners must never leave candles unattended, and make sure they’re in a safe place where they can’t be tipped over. Candles must be extinguished before going to bed.

• Electrical equipment

Electrical home fires are the leading cause of home fires in the U.S. Almost half of all home electrical fires were caused by electrical distribution or lighting equipment, while the other half involved other known types of equipment like washer or dryer fans and portable or stationary space heaters. Don’t overload electrical outlets or run extension cords under carpets, across doorways, or near heaters.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant County is constantly updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For fire damage restoration, call SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant County today at (817) 595-2506 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com

SERVPRO: Smoke and residues that fires result in

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: This SERVPRO blog talks of the various types of smoke and residues that fires leave behind in homes. This information is intended to help homeowners identify them and address them on time.

Types of smoke and residues fires leave behind

When the fire is extinguished, the damage in the house is not limited to the damage caused by the actual flames. Smoke and soot can also cause visible and invisible damage. SERVPRO shares how to identify soot and smoke damage.

1. Synthetic: Synthetic, oil-based materials such as plastics and fabrics burn to produce thick black smoke. This smoke leaves behind a smeary residue that can be very messy if not cleaned properly. This could include everything from window coverings, furniture, carpets, and electronics. When synthetic materials burn they produce a cloud of thick black smoke and a residue that clings to objects and walls.

Vacuuming is usually the preferable option followed by dry-chem sponge cleaning.

2. Protein: Kitchen fires caused by the burning of proteins such as meats and beans often leave behind a yellowish-brown residue that looks like grease. This grease can cling to painted surfaces and wood causing permanent discoloration. The removal of this residue must be done using chemicals formulated for protein-based residues. 

3. Natural or dry smoke: The burning of natural products such as wood and paper produces a dry powdery residue that is greyish-black in color. These are easier to clean up compared to synthetic or protein residues. Since this residue is so fine, it can fall easily into cracks and crevices, obscured from view. If not cleaned properly the odor may remain. Vacuuming with a bristled brush, followed by dry-chem sponge cleaning are the recommended methods.

4. Wet Smoke: Wet smoke is caused by the burning of rubber or plastic. It occurs during a slow-burning fire with a low temperature. The odor it leaves behind is extremely strong. Moreover, cleaning the thick residue is a time-consuming and tedious process that requires professional help. 

5. Soot 

Soot is almost always the result of a fire. It’s a powdery black substance that occurs when the fuel source doesn’t burn completely. Soot ionizes and sticks to all different types of surfaces and is very difficult to clean and remove. This fine powder can even get stuck in the HVAC system and get distributed throughout the building. Soot inhalation can pose serious health effects to the inhabitants if not checked properly. Thorough removal of soot, smoke, and the odor by a professional fire restoration specialist such as SERVPRO is recommended after a fire to ensure complete safety.  

Why SERVPRO?

Faster to Any Size Emergency

No matter where and how big the disaster is, SERVPRO can reach across 1,700 US and Canadian franchise locations and help its customers swiftly. The vast network of resources available to SERVPRO enables it to act immediately and efficiently. The water damage timeline above showcases the various stages of damage and the extent of restoration work it needs. A 24X7 emergency response gives SERVPRO the ability to arrest any disaster quickly and save huge amounts of money, time, and energy. 

Advanced Technology 

SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant County is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

Certified Professionals

The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in fire damage restoration and other restoration services. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For fire damage restoration services, call SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant County today at (817) 595-2506 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com

SERVPRO recommends fire safety tips for common electrical appliances

8/12/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: SERVPRO talks about fire safety tips that homeowners can follow to prevent fires due to malfunctioning appliances.

Appliance fire safety tips

Modern technology and innovative equipment have simplified lives tremendously. From simple chores to complex tasks, almost all chores are now being performed by advanced machinery and technology. This comfort is accompanied by the risk of electrical fire hazards in homes. According to the US Fire Administration, 25,000 electrical fires are recorded every year. SERVPRO of Grapevine suggests important tips that can help prevent electrical appliance fires.

Here are some fire safety tips for some of the common home appliances:

1. Washing Machine 

• Ensure the washing machine is properly connected and grounded.
• Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions.
• Do not overload the washing machine.
• Maintain the plastic components on the interior of the door that are responsible for releasing the detergent. Faulty ones cause water to leak over the machine’s internal wires, resulting in a fire.
• Dry the clothes that have come in contact with flammable substances, such as gasoline or paint thinner, before washing them.

2. Clothes Dryer

• Ground the dryer and keep the nearby area free of combustible substances.
• Always use a lint filter and clean the lint from the screen and around the drum before or after each use.

• Vent dryers directly outside using rigid or flexible metal venting materials. The air exhaust vent pipe must be unrestricted and the outdoor vent flap opens freely.
• Clean out the lint from the vent pipe once a year or more often if clothes take longer than normal to dry.
• Opt for metal vent pipes to ensure proper airflow.
• Get gas dryers regularly inspected by a qualified professional.

3. Electric or Gas Ranges

• ??Remove grease or other flammable debris from the burner, stovetop, or oven. 
• Never leave combustible items near ovens.
• Always supervise the range when cooking and switch it off when leaving the kitchen.
• Roll up sleeves, tie back long hair, and wear non-slip footwear when cooking.
• Before using the range, make sure it doesn’t smell of gas inside the oven or near it. If it does, open a window and call a professional immediately.
• Make sure the oven and the hood are safely connected.
• Install safety devices such as stove safety guards, stove knob stops, and stove locking straps, especially in a house full of kids.
• Be careful and alert when frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling.
• Turn pot handles inward to avoid accidentally knocking a pot off the stove.
• Never pour water over a grease fire as this can encourage the flaming oil to spread swiftly and uncontrollably. Use a powder fire extinguisher, baking soda, salt, or wet rags to douse the flames.
• Install a smoke alarm designed for kitchens to avoid false alarms during normal cooking activities.

4. Refrigerator

• The fridge must be powered as safely and efficiently as possible.
• The power cord and electrical outlet must be inspected for wear and tear.
• Clean the back of the fridge or freezer regularly. Accumulation of dirt at the back of the appliance is one of the most common causes of fridge fires.

5. Dishwasher

• Never leave the dishwasher on when going to bed or before leaving the house.
• Avoid using extension cords. Use a grounded wall socket to power the dishwasher.
• Check the plastic components that release the detergent on the interior of the door. If these components are damaged, the water can leak over the machine’s internal wires, causing a fire.

6. Electric Heater

• Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from flammable materials like paper, drapes, or carpet.
• Place heaters on a stable, horizontal surface (preferably on the floor). Do not put it on any furniture.
• Keep heaters away from the bathroom and away from water.
• Never touch the heater with wet hands as it can cause electrical shock.
• If the cord, plug, and wall outlet are hot to the touch, unplug the heater immediately and call a professional for an inspection.
• Never leave a heater unattended, especially with kids and pets as they may knock it down or get accidentally burnt upon touching the hot surface.

7. Microwave Oven

• Always use microwave-safe dishes. Never use aluminum foil or metal in a microwave oven, as they can ignite a fire. 
• Do not use microwaves for drying or sterilizing baby bottles, clothes, or blankets.
• Clean the food debris, grease, or stains regularly from the microwave and its outer edge.

Every piece of equipment that operates on electricity or gas presents safety risks. In addition to the above-described general safety tips, you need to take some special precautionary measures for every individual appliance in your home.

To ensure electrical fire safety, you are recommended to register newly bought appliances on the manufacturer’s website – this way, you will receive updates on safety information about your household appliance, as well as notifications if the product is recalled.

Following these safety tips ensures that fires due to negligence are avoided as much as possible. For fire restoration services, call the SERVPRO team to restore the house to its original glory.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County is constantly updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, or surrounding areas can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For fire damage restoration, call SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County today at (817) 595-2506 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com

What are the main causes of fires in commercial buildings according to SERVPRO, a fire restoration company?

6/13/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: SERVPRO, a fire restoration company, discusses the top causes of fires in commercial spaces and the precautions business owners can take to avoid or control them.

The common causes of fire in commercial buildings

Fire damage can set back a business by thousands of dollars not only in the property damage and repair and replacement costs but also in the loss of business activity. 

Fire protection must always be a primary concern of all businesses. SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant County shares the causes of fire in commercial spaces that business owners should be aware of so they can protect themselves and mitigate the risks:

• Cooking equipment

Any business that serves food, including restaurants, is likely to have a kitchen area. The high cooking temperatures, flammable oils and grease, and the fast-paced nature of commercial kitchens are concrete contributors to fire risks. Statistically, cooking accidents are the top cause of commercial fires.

It is imperative to train the personnel in equipment operations as well as fire prevention and suppression procedures. 

• Heating equipment

Depending upon the climate, commercial buildings require heating for several months of the year. There are several reasons why heating equipment is a potential cause of fires:

1. Overheating

2. Improper installation 

3. Lack of maintenance 

4. Combustible materials in the vicinity of the equipment

A regular check of heating equipment for any wear and tear is essential to prevent any mishaps.

• Electrical and lighting equipment

Electricity is always accompanied by an inherent fire risk. The usual causes of a commercial fire due to electrical and lighting equipment may be:

1. Old or defective wiring

2. Overloaded circuits and systems

3. Loose connections

4. Faulty fuses

5. Imbalanced electrical loads

6. Other electrical or lighting problems that lead to overheating or sparks that ignite a fire

7. Electrical codes being violated by unqualified personnel or building contractors during the construction phase

8. Boiler rooms being used as storage facilities with flammable materials and furniture

All lighting and electrical should be operational, up-to-code, and adequate for the needs of the facility in order to prevent electrical fires. The staff must also be trained on the dos and don’ts of electricity usage.

• Smoking materials

Smoking is not allowed indoors or within 25 feet of buildings anymore. This is not just due to the risk of health conditions like asthma and lung cancer but also because of the risk of igniting a fire. 

Improper disposal of lighted cigars, cigarettes, and other smoking materials can spark fires. Even though the rate of fires caused by smoking materials has declined in recent years due to the falling popularity of cigarettes and the introduction of “fire-safe” cigarettes with reduced ignition strength, smoking remains the top five causes of commercial fires

Ensuring cigarettes are extinguished and disposed of safely is imperative. 

• Arson

An intentional fire occurs as a result of the deliberate misuse of a heat source. Arson is a fire started with malicious, criminal intent.

Shockingly and sadly, intentional fires are very common, causing maximum property damage, and resulting in more civilian injuries and deaths compared to other fires. This is because these are planned events that are usually played out in the late afternoon or night when the response time is delayed. 

The usual spots where these commercial fires can be started are dumpsters, garbage cans, bathrooms, and garages. Keeping these areas clear is generally a good policy.

Installing security cameras, fire alarms, and fire suppression systems is the most effective way to control these mishaps.

Precautions to be taken

All these aforementioned causes of fire can be controlled to some extent by taking the following precautions:

• Creating a proper fire-suppression plan

• Training the building managers and other employees on fire safety procedures

• Routine inspection to reduce fire hazards

• Well-maintained fire alarm and sprinkler system

In case of fires, business owners can contact professional fire restoration companies such as SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant County to restore their property to its original state. 

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant County is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For fire damage restoration services, call SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant County today at (817) 595-2506 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com

SERVPRO shares emergency tips and services needed after fire

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: SERVPRO shares emergency tips after fire damage and the fire restoration services that are necessary to bring a property back to its original state.

Emergency tips for fire damage

Fires can be traumatic for families and businesses alike. Once the firefighters are done, the mess that remains can seem daunting. A reliable, timely, and efficient fire restoration process that includes cleaning and fire debris removal through deodorization and air purification is crucial. Since fires are usually extinguished by water, a water cleanup would also be required to avoid secondary damage. 

However, until a fire restoration company such as SERVPRO comes to the rescue, follow some of the emergency tips:

1. Limited movement: Refrain from moving around in the house to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
2. Cleanliness: Keep hands clean to avoid further soiling of upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
3. Cover the furnishings: Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
4. Prevent spoilage: If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
5. Coat the chrome: Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
6. Save the plants: Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves to allow them to breathe.
7. Protect from smoke: Change HVAC filter and tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.
8. Do not clean: Walls, carpets, upholstery, appliances, and garments need to be assessed professionally before choosing the method of cleaning and repair. An incorrect method of cleaning may ruin belongings or leave behind a smoke odor.
9. Dispose of food and beverage: Canned or packaged products found near the fire, heat or water need to be discarded.
10. Shock prevention: If the ceiling is wet, avoid turning on any fixtures since the wiring may be damaged.

What are the services required after fire damage?

Ideally, any fire restoration company like SERVPRO should include fire, smoke, and soot recovery in its repertoire of services. Recognizing different types of smoke and their behavior patterns is vital to proper restoration.

1. Structural Cleaning – After smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. A fire restoration company such as SERVPRO will pretest to determine the extent of damage, and then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect different types of surfaces in the structure. Depending on the amount of soot, the cost of recovery can be reduced by cleaning lighter soot deposits. In other cases, surfaces are cleared of soot to ensure the new paint adheres properly to the surface. 

1. Cleaning – All of the restorable contents including rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery must be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This is preceded by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics to determine appropriate cleaning methods. SERVPRO can provide both wet or dry cleaning services.

1. Deodorization – Various deodorization methods are available to eliminate offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage after locating the source of the odor. 

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For fire restoration services, call SERVPRO® of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County today at (817) 595-2506 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com

Fire Damage Restoration Tips: What to Do While Waiting for Your Contractor

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: Navigate the restoration process with ease by following SERVPRO’s four tips for preparing for fire restoration services while waiting for your contractor, from addressing safety concerns to minimizing the chance of further damage. 

The first step in the fire restoration process should always be calling a trained professional. However, many homeowners find themselves at a loss for what to do after that.

The experts at SERVPRO put together this list of things to do while waiting for a fire restoration contractor to help with that. They also stress that no one should enter the building until it has been cleared for entry by the fire department. 

SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant Co. is a local leader in the fire damage restoration industry. In addition to fire restoration, they offer a wide range of other emergency restoration services, such as water removal and mold remediation. 

Fire Damage Restoration Tips: What to Do While Waiting for Your Contractor

 #1: Start an Insurance Claim

While the fire restoration contractor will likely help manage the insurance claims process—SERVPRO does—it helps to notify the applicable insurance company of the fire as soon as possible and open a claim. Likewise, it's vital to take pictures of all the damage before moving anything or beginning any clean-up efforts. Detailed documentation is key to a successful claim. 

#2: Air Out the House for Mold and Mildew

Firefighters often use large amounts of water and sometimes even chemicals to put out house fires. A problematic side effect can come in the form of mold and mildew that develops in dark and damp areas. These fungi can compromise the internal strength of the house while also posing potential health effects.

Mold should only be removed by a trained professional due to the risk of exposure to harmful spores. Instead, leave it alone and open the windows to help air out the space. This step may also help with humidity levels. 

#3: Only Move Around the House if Necessary

The main concern with initiating cleaning is the possibility of exacerbating any damage. This also holds true for soot which can stick to shoe soles and transfer to other surfaces.

Avoid spreading unnecessary stains and creating more work by limiting movement throughout the space. To this end, it may be prudent to focus on areas further from the damage and leave more significant damage to the fire restoration contractor.

#4: Inspect and Clean Personal Items 

Smoke can affect clothing and other personal items in addition to interior surfaces. Avoid loading affected clothing in the washing machine as soot and other small particles can build up and cause clogs. Instead, check the local area for dry cleaners that can handle fire-damaged clothing.

Kitchen items may also require attention if the space is still inhabitable. Try soaking any dishes, utensils, and other kitchen gadgets in water and bleach to remove smoke damage. Do not consume any food or ingredients that were near the fire or suppression efforts, whether it remains intact or not.

About SERVPRO

After fire damage, SERVPRO helps Grapevine and NE Tarrant county residents take control and restore their homes.  For more information on fire damage restoration services in the Keller area, call SERVPRO today at (817) 595-2506 for a fast and free quote.

Contact Information:

SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant Co.

1670 Keller Pkwy Ste 209
Keller, TX 76248

www.SERVPROgrapevinenetarrantco.com

Fire Prevention Tips For Your Hotel

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

If you run a hotel business, you will want to do everything you can to protect it from disasters such as water damage and fire damage. Being prepared for any kind of disaster is always a good idea. Today, we’re sharing some tips that can help you prevent fire damages as well as some helpful tips in the event a fire ever does happen:

• Take steps to ensure that the address numbers for your buildings or suites are highly visible, enabling emergency responders to easily find your location quickly in the event of a fire or other emergency. Numbers should contrast with the background used, such as black on white, while the numerals should be no less than six inches in height.
• All fire extinguishers should be no more than 75 feet from all work areas for easy access, and they should be mounted in a highly visible spot. Make sure your extinguishers are inspected and serviced at least once a year by a licensed fire extinguisher company.
• Exits need to be clearly marked with EXIT signage that is illuminated at all times with a battery backup for power outages. Emergency lighting should be kept in working order, and the exit areas and spaces around the building outside kept clear of debris and plant material, reducing the fire risk outdoors as well.
• In order to prevent a fire from ever starting, all stored materials need to be stacked at least two feet below the ceiling in an orderly manner. For buildings with an automatic sprinkler system, 18 inches of clearance is required, allowing smoke to collect up high, which gives people adequate time to exit and the sprinklers a clear area for their spray pattern. Entries, hallways, and storage spaces should be kept clear of clutter or obstructions to allow quick exit and access for fire personnel. These instructions have been put in place by your area fire marshal, and if not followed, can result in fines.
• Electrical outlets should have no more than one item per outlet plugged into them, which may include a power strip with a circuit breaker. All electrical cords should be kept in good repair and replaced when needed.
• Trash receptacles need to be kept at least five feet away from combustible roofs, windows, and entryways and not stored in the path of exits.
• Have your sprinkler system tested and serviced every 12 months or less by a licensed fire sprinkler company. This practice should also be used for your fire alarm system.
• If your hotel has a restaurant kitchen onsite, make sure your stove hood has been cleaned at least once every year to prevent excessive grease buildup. Ceiling exhaust fans and bathroom heater/light/fan combinations can also be a risk due to a buildup of dust and grease, resulting in increased operating temperatures.
• Make sure your local fire department has your valid contact information on file for your business.

The SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County team is experienced in cleanup projects after fires both large and small. We are also mold remediation specialists, and here to help in the event of water damages, fire damages, and storm damages.

What You Need to Know About Fire Damage Responsibilities

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: A fire can be devastating and affect the lives of both tenants and owners. Understanding the responsibilities of both can make the recovery process after a fire significantly smoother. Find out what the tenant and owner responsibilities are after a fire and how the experts at SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant Co. can have your property looking like new.

Rental Properties: Who is Responsible for Fire Damage?

According to the National Fire Protection Association, non-wildfire structural fires cost Americans over $11 billion in 2019. Living through a fire is stressful, especially when it comes to dealing with the aftermath. From cleaning to recovering your lost goods, the entire process is full of heartbreak.

The effects of fire damage are even worse in tenant/landlord relationships. Determining who is at-fault and untangling the legal mess can lead to litigation and sleepless nights. 

Preparation is the best way to avoid much of the stress of dealing with fire damage. Landlords and tenants should understand their responsibilities before signing a lease. They should also know their roles in the fire restoration process. 

Who is responsible for coordinating cleanup? What insurance policies are needed? 

Answering questions like these makes navigating the process much smoother.

Landlord Responsibilities

The property owner is responsible for providing a safe living space for the tenant, which means addressing potential fire hazards. Items like bad wiring, unsafe appliances, and construction that does not meet building code can pose a fire risk. 

After a fire, the landlord will need to work with their insurance company to restore the building. In most cases, the property owner has to pay for structural repairs, as well as replace building fixtures like cabinets and plumbing.

In most cases, the landlord is not responsible for replacing the tenant’s property, only items that come with the rental.

Tenant Responsibilities

The tenant is liable for their personal property, such as furniture, clothing, and electronics. Many property owners require that tenants have renter's insurance for precisely this reason.  These policies cover their personal belongings in the event of natural disasters, theft, and other incidents. 

Even more important, renter’s insurance can pay for fire damage should the tenant be at fault. If the tenant was cooking unsafely or simply knocked over a candle, they could be held responsible for repaying the damages. 

Who Caused the Fire?

Insurance companies want to avoid paying out large amounts, so they will want to know who started the fire. 

If the tenant can show that the fire was due to poor maintenance on the landlord's part, the landlord may be liable for the renter's property. Similarly, if it's clear that the fire was the tenant's fault, the landlord may seek damages and compensation from the tenant.

In both cases, every party must be adequately insured, but this is especially important for landlords. 

Property owners must have insurance that covers the damage to the building and fixtures. More importantly, they need to let their insurer know that someone is renting the property. Without a landlord policy, the owner would not receive compensation for lost rent payments and could be underinsured. 

The Recovery Process

After the fire, the owner and renter need to document everything. If possible, walk through the property and take photos and videos. 

Both parties should notify their insurance companies as soon as possible after the fire. The insurers will investigate the cause of the fire and determine the financial cost. To do this, the insurance company will send an adjuster to review the fire damage.

Even if the fire was small, it helps to call the fire department for an objective view. They can inspect the cause and demonstrate how the fire spread.

Unless there's clear evidence that the tenant caused the fire, it falls on the landlord to work with a building restoration service or fire restoration companies. 

Fire restoration service is about more than just repairing fire and smoke damage — it's also about water removal and water cleanup. In many cases, the water used to extinguish the fire will flood the property. If this water is allowed to seep into the floors and walls, it may result in mold growth and unsafe living conditions.

Typically, it's in the landlord's best interest to work with a commercial cleaning service that offers comprehensive fire restoration and addresses secondary damage as well, such as mold removal, flood cleanup, and even an air duct cleaning service.

About SERVPRO of Grapevine

There will be sleepless nights after a fire, but there are ways to mitigate that stress. With the right preparation, insurance, and response, both parties can start the restoration and compensation process. 

If you've been the victim of a fire and need a cleanup service, trust the experts at SERVPRO of Grapevine. They are your local fire damage restoration service, having served the Keller, TX area for decades. 

Contact information

1670 Keller Pkwy

Ste 209

Keller, TX 76248

(817) 595-2506

https://www.SERVPROgrapevinenetarrantco.com/

How to Safely Use Your Fire Pit

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Be sure fire is 10-15ft from the closest building structure.

Now that it’s becoming cooler outside, many of us are uncovering our firepits and looking forward to spending time gathering around them to enjoy time with family and friends. Practicing fire safety is going to be an important thing to remember. 

Let’s have a quick refresher on how to safely use your firepit:

Whether you prefer a built-in or portable fire pit, choose one that is not too large for the area. The pit should be a minimum of 10 feet away from any structures or combustible materials as well as away from trees, fences, sheds, power lines, and telephone wires.

Make sure that the seating area is large enough and properly placed for comfort and ventilation.

Don’t start your fire if it’s really windy; a strong breeze can easily blow sparks onto nearby flammable materials, such as firewood piles or roofs, and can hurt people, too. 

Burn only dry material. Damp material will create excess smoke. 

Don’t use lighter fluid or gasoline to get your fire going as it can easily burn out of control or even result in explosions. Don't burn tires, aerosols, fireworks, or anything containing paint or foam to avoid toxic fumes which could also explode and cause injury.

To start the fire, use a lighter to ignite crumpled pieces of paper covered with small sticks. Then, add larger sticks and a log or two to keep it burning. 

Wear non-flammable clothing and hard-soled shoes when starting, sitting near, or extinguishing the fire. 

Never leave the fire unattended, and keep pets and children far away from the fire as they will be attracted to it.

Keep the proper fire extinguishing equipment, or at least a water hose, handy in case there is an emergency. You could also fill a bucket with sand, which can be used instead of water to help extinguish a fire.

As the fire dies down, use a shovel and spread out the ashes to allow them to cool down. Then slowly pour water over those ashes and watch them closely to be sure that no burning embers remain or reignite. Put the cooled ashes in a specially designated ash storage metal can. 

SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County is dedicated to providing the quickest response to any fire event that may occur in our area. Immediate action is crucial to limiting the damage, and we have a trained and experienced team, along with the specialized equipment necessary for prompt recovery and restoring your home or business. Reach our office at (817) 595-2506 for any questions regarding smoke or fire damage.

5 Space Heater Safety Tips

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

As the temperatures drop lower and cold weather rolls in to stay for awhile, you’re probably breaking out the space heaters to warm up your home or business. While space heaters provide wonderful warmth during the colder months, they also can be safety hazards if they aren’t properly set up and monitored to ensure they don’t pose any risks to you or your home. A space heater fire is never on anyone’s agenda, so we recommend following these 5 space heater safety tips to avoid any unwanted fires from occurring:

1. Carefully place your space heater at least 3 feet away from flammable objects. If any objects come in contact with the space heater’s electric heating face or a hot surface, it poses a serious fire risk. As a general rule, never sit or drape anything over your space heater, don’t set it near rugs, furniture, bedding, clothing, window treatments, or other flammable materials. Also, make sure that it’s sitting on a level surface so that it doesn’t accidentally fall or tip over. 
2. Don’t use extension cords. Plug your space heater directly into an outlet. There’s a much higher chance of your space heater overheating or otherwise malfunctioning if it’s plugged into an extension cord or an outlet strip. Minimize these dangers by plugging your space heater directly into an outlet that has the power capacity necessary to fire it up and keep it running.
3. Unplug it when you’re not using it. This should go for almost all appliances, but it’s especially relevant for your space heater. When you’re not using your space heater, you should first turn it off and then you should unplug it. Having a space heater running while you don’t want it to be running poses a fire hazard as well as a waste of energy. 
4. Clean, inspect, and maintain your space heater. On a regular basis, you should clean your space heater and wipe it down to avoid dispersing dust and other allergens throughout your house. You should also carefully monitor your space heater to ensure that it’s working as it’s supposed to and nothing wonky is happening. If anything seems out of order, turn it off and unplug it right away until a professional can inspect it and you can safely run it again. Alternatively, you can just dispose of it and purchase a new space heater.
5. Don’t run your space heater in the bathroom or a basement. Space heaters should never be run in places that are humid or wet because space heaters are not meant to be wet. Don’t handle your space heater if your hands are wet or you just got out of the shower. The electricity from the space heater could run through the water and shock you. This is dangerous and should be avoided at all costs.

While we love our space heaters as much as the rest of you, it’s important to run them safely when you have them operating. SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County is here to help you with any fire damage, water damage, storm damage, or mold that comes your way this fall and winter season, and we’re available 24/7 at (817) 595-2506. Give us a call today to discuss how we can help you fix any damage to your home or business. 

Office Fire Safety Precautions to Observe

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

In the event that a fire ever occurs in your office, it’s important to have a few fire safety precautions in place to keep your employees and commercial building prepared for dealing with one. While having a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors goes without saying, do your employees know what to do if the alarm sounds or they have to use the extinguisher?

Here are a few fire safety precautions that you should ensure are in place:

• Make sure your employees know how to use a fire extinguisher. Every 6 months or so, hold a training session where your employees learn how to use a fire extinguisher if they don’t already know how to use one. Something as simple as this could be the difference between an accidental office fire from a microwave or a lighter being extinguished or burning up everything in sight. Here’s a great article on how to use a fire extinguisher.

• Regularly change your smoke detectors’ batteries and ensure one is installed in every room. As a general rule of thumb, test your smoke detectors once a month and replace their batteries twice a year. By ensuring that your smoke detectors do their job and have the battery juice to sound, you can prevent office fires whenever smoke occurs first.

• Share your office’s evacuation plan. Depending on the size of your office, you need to have one or multiple evacuation plans to adhere to the building’s fire code. Make sure to take into account any legal requirements for fire evacuation plans before you post them around the building and share them. 

• Do a few fire drills. Sharing your office’s evacuation plan isn’t enough. Hold a couple fire drills and run your employees through the proper evacuation routes so they know where to go if the building catches on fire. Rehearsing an evacuation plan makes it that much easier to take action in the event that a fire actually occurs.

With all of these fire safety precautions in place, we hope that you’ll never have to manage the aftermath of an office fire. However, If you ever end up dealing with fire damage, water damage, mold, or other natural disaster damage, give SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County a call at (817) 595-2506. Our team of professionals are trained and equipped to help you manage restoration and cleaning.

What to Expect From a Fire Damage Restoration Project

9/29/2020 (Permalink)

A fire damage event is difficult for the home or business owner on many levels, and the restoration process that follows can be intimidating. Today we are sharing what you can expect from a fire restoration project. Each fire event is a little different, and each will require a unique solution, although the overall general process stays the same. The steps we are listing below will illustrate the SERVPRO process for the average fire damage emergency.

• Emergency Contact. Your restoration process begins the moment that you contact us. Our representative will ask you questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us to respond with the appropriate equipment and resources for your particular situation.
• Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment. Our team will carefully inspect and test all the adjoining rooms of your home or business to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is vital to us, allowing us to develop the perfect plan of action for your property.
• Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service. Fire damage will often compromise the condition of windows, walls, and roofing. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we will board up missing windows and walls, and place tarps on damaged areas of the roof.
• Water Removal and Drying. If water damage is present, the water removal process will begin almost immediately, with the goal of removing the majority of the water. Our team will then employ dehumidifiers and air movers to remove any remaining water and complete the drying process.
• Removal of Smoke and Soot From All Surfaces. SERVPRO uses specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and all other surfaces.
• Cleaning and Sanitizing. We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. Our team uses a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to the condition they were in before the fire. We are also trained to remove lingering odors, using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
• Restoration. This is the final step - getting your home or business back to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, installing new carpet, or painting surfaces, or it may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various rooms or areas.

Here at SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County, we are ready to help if your Grapevine home or business suffers from damage due to fire or water. You can also count on us when it comes to mold remediation and prevention.

Safety Tips For Using A Fire Extinguisher

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

OSHA states that fire is the most common emergency occurrence owners of homes and small businesses should plan for. One of the best ways to be prepared is by having a fire extinguisher readily available, making sure it’s properly maintained and audited, and by being educated on its proper use. This will already be a fire safety requirement for any business, and it’s a good idea for the homeowner, as well. 

OSHA requires employers to train their staff thoroughly on how to use a fire extinguisher correctly and to accurately assess the situation if a fire is to occur so that it can be determined if/when an evacuation needs to take place. OSHA has established annual training for employees as a minimal requirement for all places of business, and this training is helpful for homeowners as well.  

The PASS training technique is recommended: 

• P. Pull the pin on the extinguisher.
• A. Aim the nozzle of the hose at the base of the fire. 
• S. Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent. 
• S. Sweep the nozzle from side to side, directed at the base of the flames, until the fire is extinguished. 

Once someone knows how to properly operate a fire extinguisher, they should then also be trained to follow fire safety protocol. Such training should enable anyone to be able to:

• Locate and activate the fire alarm.
• Call the fire department and emergency responders immediately. 
• Determine a safe evacuation route that will direct people away from flames, excessive heat, and smoke. They should also know how to keep the route from becoming blocked.
• Use the PASS technique for discharging a fire extinguisher (outlined above), and know the importance of backing away from the area if the fire flares up again. 
• Evacuate the area immediately if the fire is still going and the extinguisher is empty, or if the fire grows beyond what can be safely handled without fire department personnel. 

NOTE: Fire extinguishers are made to handle small fires only. If the environment becomes too dangerous, everyone should know when and how to evacuate. Excessive smoke and heat, impaired evacuation routes, and poor visibility are all conditions that can evolve very quickly, and people need to understand that safety comes first and foremost. 

SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County is here to help with cleanup projects both large and small and are dedicated to getting your business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. We also handle mold prevention and remediation, as well as fire damage and water damage.

Esporta - A Game Changer in Fire Restoration

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

Esporta Wash System and Dryers

Fire Damaged Clothing

Here at SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County, we specialize in the restoration of fire damaged items. A lot of items that come out of a home or business that have been affected by a fire are heavily affected by smoke and soot. Many companies will determine that these items are non-salvageable due to the extreme conditions. However, our technicians deem everything as salvageable until we can prove that it cannot be salvaged. The most common items that are usually replaced rather than restored are the soft cloth contents including, clothes, shoes, purses, etc. Our crews understand that these items can be important and hold value/memories that are not replaced by buying a new one.

Our team attempts to salvage these items with our Esporta Wash System. Our facility is one of the only restoration facilities that has this machine available for use and is operated by an Esporta Certified Operator. Third party independent laboratory testing has verified that the Esporta Wash System restores contaminated items to FOOD GRADE CLEAN by removing 99% of contaminants. Esporta’s patented and proprietary technology is the most effected washing solution available in today’s market. The items are held stationary and passed through detergent-laden water. The combination of the patented hydraulic action and the environmentally friendly detergent results in the removal of over 99% of the organic and inorganic contaminants. This process is five times more effective than traditional laundry.

What can be restored in the Esporta Wash System?

• Leather goods of all kinds
  • Shoes
  • Purses
  • Jackets
• Laundry of all kinds
  • Wash and fold
  • Press and Hang
• Household goods of all kinds
  • Sleeping bags
  • Pillows
  • Comforters
  • Stuffed animals
• Unique articles such as sports equipment
• A wide variety of other articles

Not only does the Esporta Wash System have the best cleaning and disinfecting results, but it also maintains the structural integrity of the items during the multi-stage computer controlled patented cleaning process.

Upon arrival to a fire damaged home or business, the first-priority of our crew is to work with the customer to determine if they have any, what we call, 911 items. These items are a guaranteed 24-hour turn around for the customer so that they can have their most valuable/most important items returned as soon as possible for their convenience. This also leads to a simpler and faster claim settlement and a satisfaction guarantee ensuring delighted customers and insurance professionals.

If you have any questions, please call our office at 817-595-2506.

Lighting Damage Prevention

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), lightning strikes were the cause of an estimated average of 22,600 fires each year, that’s a lot of fire! With some homes being struck in last night, it’s important to know about the options for your home when it comes to lightning safety. Although the chances of your home getting struck by lightning is fairly slim, it can happen. It’s hard to predict mother nature, and what she is going to do, which is why you can install preventative measures to your home to make sure that a fire does not get started because of a lightning strike.

For example, you can hire a company to come out to install copper tubes on the top of your house, which will distribute the current away from your home and into the ground to prevent fires. If you’re worried about the aesthetic of your home – after all, who wants big copper poles sticking out of the top of your home? Don’t worry! They only come up about a foot off the top of your roof and are unnoticeable. In the long run, it’s a great investment to keep your home safe.

If you’ve been affected by a recent fire, give us a call today at 817.595.2506!

Fire Damage To Your Fort Worth Home? Let us take care of it!

10/13/2019 (Permalink)

Fires are extremely overwhelming, your home and the personal things you’ve had in them seem to be destroyed, all those irreplaceable heirlooms are gone. On top of that, you’ve got to deal with the cleaning and reconstruction of your house, and how are you going to get rid of that awful soot smell?

That’s where we here at SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County come in! We are experts in restoring, not replacing. So you don’t need to worry about any of it, we take it from the moment your fire is put out. We will pack up and move all of those important heirlooms and pictures and clean them all so they are back to preloss conditions. You don’t even have to worry about buying an all new wardrobe. We have an Esporta machine - which can handle up to eight loads of laundry at a time and with special blends of laundry detergents, we can get the smoke smell out of almost anything. 

So, for all your fire restoration needs give us a call today at 817.595.2506!

Holiday Fire Safety For Your Fort Worth Home

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

We have started our fire busy season! As bad as that sounds, it’s the truth. Fires tend to escalate in the fall and winter months due to the holidays. People like candles, I know I do. There’s nothing better than the smell of apple cider or forests to bring some extra coziness to their homes when it’s chilly outside and you’re wrapped up in blankets. But it’s important that we practice fire safety.

It seems elementary, but it’s incredibly important and doesn’t hurt to have reminders every once and a while. Make sure to keep candles away from pets, and make sure that they are away from decorations. All ways be sure to blow out a candle before you leave a room. You can also invest in a wax warmer to keep fall scents in your home and keep the flames out. Just make sure to follow the manufacturers warnings and instructions for usage.

If you find yourself in the midst of a fire during this holiday season, give us a call today at 817.595.2506!

Kitchen Fire Tips

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Between 2012-2016 the NFPA found that cooking was the leading cause of fires within the United States. It’s important to remember safety when cooking in our homes. Don’t leave stove tops or ovens unattended and if you do have to leave the room to host guests or for another reason, be sure to take an oven mitt with you to remind you that something is cooking on the stove or in the oven.

If you happen to have a grease fire in your home, do not pour water on it! It seems like it’s elementary, but when you’re panicked with a fire in your kitchen sometimes you can do silly things. Instead cover the fire with a cookie sheet to suffocate it. If it’s a small fire you can also use salt to put it out as well. Make sure to always have a fire extinguisher on hand just in case a fire breaks out in your kitchen.

For all your fire cleaning needs give us a call today at 817.595.2506!

Fires Caused By Lightning

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

It seems like every weekend, we seem to have some sort of a storm and rain chance. But, that’s North Texas in the spring time, for ya! While we aren’t in a full-blown drought, it’s important to remember that the fire risk still isn’t over. Besides grilling, which we’ve talked about here, but your home could be struck by lightning during those spring storms.

It’s always wise to call the fire department to do a full inspection of your home if you suspect your home has been struck by lightning because it may not be obvious that there’s a fire. A lot of times, fires tend to spread along the inside walls of a home, unseen until they become a bigger home destroying fire.

A way to prevent your home from being struck by lightning and causing a fire, is to get a lightning protection system installed on the roof of your home. Companies will come out and install about ten-inch-long rods along your roof, that will have copper wires go to the ground of your home. They’ll help disperse the lightning away from your home to prevent damage causing fires. It’s also smart to have surge protectors for all major electronics in your home.

This springtime if you find your home struck by lightning, give us a call at 817.595.2506 today!

Smoke Detectors Are Important!

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

The importance of smoke detectors have been ingrained into us, it feels like. We learn about fire safety and what to do when you hear a smoke detector first in school – and it’s repeated to us every year until we go to middle school. And – we’ve even been in the home when the batteries run out of the smoke alarm or every time we cook it sets off the alarm because it’s a little too close to the stove so we take down the smoke alarm.

We know this is bad, and we should absolutely think twice before taking out the batteries. Why? Because fire detectors work. According to The National Fire Protection Association every three out of five home fire deaths come from homes that don’t have a smoke alarm.

So, be sure to check your smoke detectors once a year, replace the batteries and make sure each and every fire detector is working in your home – they save lives after all!

For all your fire cleaning needs, give us a call today at 817.595.2506!

Springtime Fire Safety

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

Always use fire safety when grilling in Grapevine, TX!

When we think of home fire prevention, we think about the things we would normally keep an eye on during the winter months like space heaters, Christmas trees, fire places and ovens during cooking those big holiday meals. But spring time presents its own fire dangers.

For example, you may want to start up your outdoor grill after a long winter trapped inside to grill up some nice steaks.  Be sure to give your grill a good inspection before starting her up. Check the propane tank, and the gas line. Make sure everything is clean. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure that it’s started with the proper charcoal lighting fluid. And this maybe a given but put the grill in an open area with nothing flammable near it.

If you want to start up your fire pit, make sure all leaves and debris are removed from the pit, as those can create embers that can float into the air. And don’t throw anything like that in the fire. Always keep children away from open flames, and always keep a bucket of water next to you before you start the fire just incase of emergencies.

If you happen to suffer from a springtime fire, give SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant Co. a call at 817.595.2506!

Quick Fire Facts

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Understanding how fires start and what you can do to quickly put them out is important to keeping you and your family safe. Check out these quick facts and stats to get a better understanding of how to avoid having fire damage in your home.

• About 50% of home fires are started by cooking accidents. Be sure you keep a fire extinguisher close at hand whenever you are working in the kitchen.
• Just above 15% of residential fires are caused by electrical malfunctions or issues with the heating system in the home. This is why it is extremely important to have your appliances checked often and keep up with their maintenance year-round.
• California, Texas, and Georgia lead the nation in fire deaths in 2016. Make sure you have a plan in place, so your family knows exactly what to do if a fire breaks out at home.

Being prepared plays a huge part of avoiding injury and death during a fire. Make a plan and be sure that everyone in the building is familiar with it so that if a fire breaks out, everyone knows exactly what to do.

If you have fire damage in your home, give us a call at 817-595-2506, and we will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Holiday Fire Prevention

10/15/2018 (Permalink)

The Holiday season is right around the corner, and I personally love this time of year, the weather is cooler and it seems as though everyone is in a good mood. Christmas trees are alight along with fires and candles filling our homes with the warm smells of Christmas.

But that also means a higher risk of fire danger, between candles, decorations, and Christmas trees - it’s one of the most dangerous times of the year. For example, with the invention of artificial trees Christmas Tree fires are not very common, however they can be very serious when they do occur. On average one in every 32 home Christmas tree fires reported resulted in a death compared to the average of one in every 143 regular home fires. When it comes to Christmas tree fires they are started, usually, by a heat source set a little too close to the tree.

When it comes to candle usage, December is the peak time for fires. 12% of fires at home started with candles during the Christmas month, with the top three days for candle fires in the home to be Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Years Day.

To protect your home from a fire this holiday season make sure to never leave a room unattended with a candle in it, and never leave anything that could possibly be a heat source near your Christmas tree.

From your friends down at SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County we wish you Happy Holidays!

Halloween Fire Safety

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

I don’t know about you, but I’m super excited! Halloween is exactly THREE WEEKS AWAY from today! It’s one of my favorite times of the year, and I think I’ve successfully eaten half my weight in Reese’s Peanut Butter Pumpkins. But with all the spooky fun that comes along with Halloween, it’s very important to remember that safety – especially fire safety is important this time of year. Nearly 900 home fires a year are started because of decorations igniting. With every two out of five being started by a candle! Here are some tips from the NFPA to keep you and your little ghouls this Halloween.

1. Use battery operated, flameless candles or glow sticks in your pumpkins and decorations.
2. If you do use candles, be sure to keep any decorations like corn stalks, dried flowers, and crepe paper away from open flames as they can catch fire very easily.
3. When choosing your costume for this year, try and avoid long flowing fabrics that can easily catch fire. If your little one is wearing a mask, make sure the eye holes are big enough for them to see out of.
4. Keep all exits clear of decorations to keep from blocking escape routes.
5. Test your smoke alarms!

And don’t forget to have fun trick-or-treating with your little ones this Halloween! If you do have any accidental fire or smoke damage this Halloween give SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County a call at 817.595.2506!

Fire & Pets

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

According to the United States Fire Administration, an estimated 500,000 pets are affected by fires annually. Unfortunately, pets knock over candles and turn on stoves starting over 1,000 fires a year. We here at SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County love our pets, so we’ve put together some tips to help you both prevent and plan for a fire with your pet.

Prevention

As always, prevention is the number one way to make sure your pet is protected against a house fire.

• It seems like a no brainer, but make sure all open flames are extinguished before you leave your home or go to bed. Cats are notorious for knocking over lit candles.
• If your stove has knobs, take them off before you leave or go to bed at night. You can also use covers like the ones you’d use for baby proofing. This prevents animals from accidentally turning something on.
• Our pets enjoy warmth during the winter just as much as we do! However, it’s important to keep their bedding and toys away from open flames like fireplaces.
• As always, make sure you’ve got working smoke alarms!
• If your pet likes to chew, keep electrical cords out of reach. A pet could chew a wire and cause a short that starts a fire.

In the Event of a Fire

Sometimes, though the unthinkable happens and your house does catch fire, here are a few things you can do to make sure your pet is safe.

• Your pet should wear a collar with identification tags at all times in case they get lost during the fire.
• If you haven’t already, get your pet microchipped. In the event they aren’t wearing their collar, or they manage to wiggle free of it, they can be easily identified and returned to you.
• If there’s a fire while you’re not home, make sure your neighbors know how many pets you have and their names. If you trust them enough, you can even give them a spare key to use in the event of an emergency.
• Get a sign for your window! Many places offer signs to let firemen and rescue workers know you have pets in your home.
• Have a pet emergency kit available. Some things you’ll want to include are food, water, a toy, first-aid kit, leash, treats, medication, and any important documents you may need.
• When testing your smoke alarm, or when vacuuming, try and see where your pet goes to hide when they’re scared or in distress. This information will make it easier to evacuate with your pet and can let firefighters know where your pet is in the event of a fire. 
• Have an escape plan put into place that includes your pet, and practice it.
• Keep leashes and crates by the door so if there is a fire your pet can be rescued easily, and you can evacuate easily too.
• Train your pet to come when called – it’ll make evacuation and rescue a breeze.

If you and your pet have been affected by a fire, we here at SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant Co. are always here to help! Our phones are answered 24/7 just give us a call (817-595-2506) and we’ll be on our way.

What to do after a fire in Southlake, TX

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

A fire can be devastating but know that it is all okay.

A house fire is something we never want to happen to our homes. Unfortunately, they do happen – frequently as well. In 2016 one home fire was reported every 90 seconds, and they are incredibly traumatic events. You’ll be bombarded by so many different emotions at once, it’ll be hard to figure out which way is up. Just take a deep breath and everything will be okay! The most important thing is that you and your family are safe. Call your loved ones and let them know what happened, and then your insurance know as well. Once you do that, restarting your life can begin.

When the fire is finally out, check with the proper authorities to make sure it’s safe to enter your home. The firefighters will go through precautionary measures and procedures to make sure the area is safe for you to enter the home and evaluate the damage.

Sometimes the most surprising thing to occur with a house fire is water damage! A massive amount of water is used to put out the fire and it can sometimes cause more damage than the fire! Water can not only damage your belongings, but it will also pose a more dangerous situation: mold. Call us here at SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County and we will arrive as soon as possible to assess the damage and gather your belongings to begin work on restoring them.

Lastly, when you leave your property, secure it! Burglars could come in and rob you of your remaining property – making a bad situation worse, or someone could be injured on your property. Ask the authorities on how to secure your home.

If the unimaginable happens, call SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County at 817.595.2506. We are here 24/7!

Common Causes for House Fires

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

Common Causes of House Fires

There are several causes for house fires. Listed below you will see some of those causes.

 Cooking Equipment

Pots and pans can overheat and cause a fire very easily if the person cooking gets distracted and leaves cooking unattended. Always stay in the room, or ask someone to watch your food, when cooking on hotplates.

 Heating

Keep portable heaters at least one meter away from anything that could easily catch fire such as furniture, curtains, laundry, clothes and even yourself. If you have a furnace, get it inspected once a year to make sure it is working to safety standards.

 Smoking in bedrooms

A cigarette that is not put out properly can cause a flame, as the butt may stay lit for a few hours. If it meets any flammable materials such as furniture, it can burst into flames.

 Electrical Equipment

An electrical appliance, such as a toaster can start a fire if it is faulty or has a frayed cord. A power point that is overloaded with double adapter plugs can cause a fire from overuse of electricity.

 Candles

Candles look and smell pretty but if left unattended they can cause a room to easily burst into flames. Keep candles away from any obviously flammable items such as books and tissue boxes. Always blow a candle out before leaving a room.

 Faulty Wiring

Homes with inadequate wiring can cause fires from electrical hazards. Some signs to see if you have bad wiring are:

1) Lights dim if you use another appliance.

2) For an appliance to work, you must disconnect.

3) Fuses blow or trip the circuit frequently.

Have a licensed electrician come and inspect you house or contact your landlord if you have any of the above occurrences.

 Lighting

Lamp shades and light fittings can build up heat if they are very close to light globes.

Here at SERVPRO of Grapevine and N.E. Tarrant County, no matter the type of fire loss or residue left, our highly trained professionals understand the behavior of smoke and the cleanup processes to best utilize during fire restoration services. We are ready for whatever happens 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call 817-595-2506.

Grapevine/NE Tarrant County Smoke and Soot Damage

10/26/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot can be very sneaky and invasive possibly causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience here at SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County allows us to be able to assess the extent of the damage to develop a plan of action.

Smoke & Soot Facts:

Smoke flows around plumbing systems, it seeps through any holes used by your plumbing to go from floor to floor. Depending on what type of smoke it is may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

Wet & dry are the two different types of smoke. As a result, there are different types of soot residue following a fire.  Before any restoration begins, SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County will perform a test on the soot to determine what type of smoke damage occurred.  The cleaning process will then be based on the result of the test.  West Smoke is produced from any plastic & rubber.  Dry smoke is produced when you burn paper and wood.  Protein Fire Residue is produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire and causes and extremely pungent odor.

Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every smoke and fire damage circumstance is a little different. A unique solution is required for each situation that is tailored for the specific conditions.  We here at SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your smoke and fire damage.  Our mission is to always treat you and your property with empathy, respect and care.

Have any Questions about Fire, Soot or Smoke Damage? We are always here to help!

Call 817-595-2506