Fire Can Cause Permanent Damage to Your Greene County Home

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

A house fire can lead to the scattering of millions of tiny ash, soot, and soil throughout your home. The particles can stain textiles, surfaces, and paintwork. Introducing water or foot traffic to the area can sometimes cause permanent damage to contents with particle soiling. 

It is essential to reduce foot-traffic and water absorption during fire damage restoration in your Greene County area home. Water-based cleaning agents, like detergent, can also cause particles to set into carpets or textiles' fibers. SERVPRO of Greene County can help to restore your home to the pre loss condition after the fire. 

• We pre-test materials before introducing cleaning agents or water.
• Thoroughly drying the property can help to reduce odor problems.
• Using dry vacuuming and emulsifying agents, we can reduce soiling without using water.

We also focus on indoor air quality. We have advanced equipment like HEPA-filtered air scrubbers to capture airborne particles and hydroxyl generators to neutralize pungent odors from the smoke. We are committed to restoring your property to its pre loss condition whenever possible.

Attention to detail is essential to restoring a fire-damaged home. Contact SERVPRO of Greene County for fire damage restoration at (423) 638-1104.

Summer Bonfire Safety

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

What Are Some Safety Measures to Protect Yourself from Fire Damage As A Result Of Bonfires? 

• Check the weather before building your bonfire! Don’t set up a bonfire on a windy night. 
• Make sure that the area you have your bonfire is in a legal location. Before you begin, find out your state, county, and city regulations are about fires.  
• Keep an eye on anyone running too close to a bonfire so that no one gets hurt. 
• Keep a garden hose or a bucket of water nearby in case the fire spreads. It never hurts to be prepared. 
• Make sure that the wood you’re burning is dry and seasoned. No furniture, nothing coated or treated, and certainly no railroad ties should be thrown into the flames. 
•  Do NOT burn anything with foam or paint! This includes canisters and aerosols. The chemicals from these items can release toxic fumes and are incredibly flammable. Such products are known to explode, so it’s best to stay away from these materials during a bonfire. 
• Wet the area so that there aren’t any flammable fragments after the bonfire. 

How Can SERVPRO of Greene County Help with Fire Restoration This Summer? 

• We’re faster to any disaster- big or small. Damage is damage, and we strive to restore your Greene County, TN property "Like it never even happened."
• We specialize in fire and water damage, which is the foundation of our business. This includes fire, smoke, and soot restoration, odor control, fabric cleaning, and water damage restoration. 
• We have a “restore vs. replace” mentality. This helps you get back in your Greene County home or business faster while also lowering costs. This mindset leads to the specialized training and equipment that we use to get your property back to the way it was before the fire. 
• We know that every fire damage scenario is unique, so we tailor each restoration project to the situation on hand. 

A summer bonfire can be a festive way to celebrate with family and friends, but if you’re not careful, the night can end in disaster. We hope that with these tips, you can have a safe, enjoyable bonfire this season, but if the situation arises, our experienced team at SERVPRO of Greene County is only a call away. Contact us at (423)638-1104. This franchise is independently owned and operated.  

Greene County Smoke & Soot Work

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

? Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.

? Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.

? The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Greene Count will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

? Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

? Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

? Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience

Stay Safe This Holiday Season

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

HOLIDAY FIRE SAFETY TIPS

The winter holidays can be the busiest time of year for many households. There are family activities, community events and parties to attend, and you may even be hosting a gathering or two in your own home. Kids are excited, the days are short and there seems to be a never-ending list of things to get done. However, now is not the time to ignore or forget about basic holiday fire safety, which includes Christmas tree fire safety.

CHRISTMAS TREE FIRE SAFETY:

• Live trees need to be fresh and stay fresh until removed from your home. Look for a tree with needles that pull back easily from the branches but do not break. Tap your tree on the ground. If it sheds a ton of needles, it is not fresh.
• Keep a freshly cut tree watered so it does not dry out and become a fire hazard, or use a potted live tree and plant a memory from this Christmas season to grow for years to come.
• Never place your Christmas tree near a fireplace, wood burning stove or other open flame.
• Never place real, burning candles on your Christmas tree as decorations.
• Christmas trees should not block doorways or exit routes, in case of a fire.
• Only buy fire-resistant artificial trees.
• Inspect all strands of Christmas lights before placing them on your tree. Look for fraying wires and other damage.
• Never use more than three sets of light strands per one extension cord.
• Check all extension cords for damage or fraying; do not overload a single electrical outlet.
• If you are going to be away from home, turn off the Christmas tree lights and consider unplugging all non-essential electronics and appliances.
• Keep lit candle displays at least three feet away from the tree.
• Only decorate a tree with non-combustible or flame-resistant decorations.

OUTDOOR DECORATION FIRE SAFETY

Just because your decorations are outside does not mean you can ignore specific holiday fire safety precautions. Be sure that any extension cords you use outside are labeled for outdoor use. Look on the label and packaging to determine whether your cord is made for the outdoors. All outdoor lights need to be fastened securely to your home's porch, columns, gutters, surrounding trees or other supports that will stay secure, even in blustery conditions. Always plug outdoor lights and electric decorations into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet or use a surge protector for safety.

Fire Restoration Company of Choice

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

If you’ve been a victim of a fire, you’ll need a great team on your side to get you back home as soon as possible. Your first call should be to a professional fire restoration and cleaning company like SERVPRO of Greene County.

SERVPRO of Greene County will work on your behalf to immediately start the claims process. We will work directly with your insurance carrier’s adjuster to assess your fire-damaged home or business, and determine the next steps to effectively cleanup, repair, and restore. United works for you from start to finish.

When your house or business is damaged by a fire, United is there every step of the way. As a licensed and insured emergency fire and water damage restoration company, we will:

• ? Inspect your property and access structural fire damage
• ? Board-up and secure your property.
• ? Extract standing water and dry the affected areas.
• ? Compile inventory lists and photo library of non-salvageable belongings.
• ? Conduct debris, smoke, and soot damage cleanup
• ? Repair your fire-damaged property to its original condition.
• ? Clean, deodorize, pack & store any affected personal items.
• ? Get your home back to normal as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO of Greene County works closely with local fire departments in the surrounding counties, and have become a trusted and reputable partner for residential and commercial fire damage repairs. For rapid response, call SERVPRO of Greene County 24/7/365 at 423-434-0046. Our knowledgeable and experienced IICRC-certified team will properly mitigate your fire loss with care and incomparable service. We do our absolute best to restore fire-damaged properties and possessions back to preloss condition or better.
 

What To Do Until Help Arrives

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call 423-434-0046

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Preventing a Fire In Your Business

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Even though every business is different, commercial fires tend to start for the same reasons. As a business owner, it's important to be aware of these causes, so you can do your best to prevent them. Cooking, of course, is one of the main causes. Kitchen fires in restaurants are the most common source of fire in non-residential or commercial buildings. Mainly because the grease traps or hood system, and exhaust vents for commercial stoves, broilers, and deep fryers are not properly cleaned and maintained on a regular basis as they should be. Electrical and heating malfunctions such as worn electrical cords and faulty wiring are also a major cause of commercial fires. Probably the 3^rd top reason for commercial fires is arson. Intentional fire-setting in abandoned buildings, especially in the current economic climate, provides an easy target for fire setters. Don't let these hazards kill or injure firefighters. Take care and maintain your property even if your business is not up and running at the moment. Of course, another reason for commercial fires is smoking. Even in a smoke-free building, you can't watch what your employees or customers do all the time. It only takes one cigarette to start a fire. Improper Storage can also contribute to a fire. Many fires are started when flammable materials are stored too close to a heat source. There are additional risks that may not be covered here. Commercial fire sprinklers can protect all types of businesses from too much fire damage, making them a worthwhile investment in your building and employees' safety.  Call your friends at SERVPRO of Greene County for all your fire and fire safety needs. We are here to help! 

Where Do Most Fires Start?

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

kitchen fire

Some of the most common house fires in Greene County that occur come straight from the kitchen. We all have burnt a little something in the kitchen along the way I bet. Toast in the toaster, a cake in the oven, popcorn in the microwave. It happens sometimes if we get distracted while preparing something good to eat. One of the most common kitchen fires is on the stove. We call it a grease fire. SERVPRO gets more calls about grease fires than anything else. Reason being is as soon as oil heats that stove there is a great chance of it catching fire if you aren’t paying attention. When grease catches fire on the stove to the point you can’t just easily put it out, it can catch your cabinets on fire, along with anything else surrounding that area very quickly. That being said, here are some tips on what to do if you ever experience this cooking fiasco. Cover the flames with a metal lid or cookie sheet if possible. This smothers the flames and keeps them from getting any higher or spreading out. Turn off the heat source if you can without burning yourself. Remember you are more important than your stuff. If it's small and manageable, pour baking soda or salt on it to smother the fire. As a last resort, locate your fire extinguisher which is normally under the sink or in your pantry. Do not try to extinguish the fire with water. This will only increase the flames and allow it to spread even further. 

What Can You Do?

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

Keep Doors Closed

One of the best ways to prevent a fire from spreading inside your home is to keep all the doors in your home closed. Especially when you leave your home or when you go to sleep at night. If your home catches fire, keeping the doors closed can prevent the fire from spreading to other rooms giving the fire department more time to save your house. Also, check your fire alarms regularly. Some fire alarms are hard wired into your home’s electrical. But other fire alarms operate on a battery that can be exchanged easily. If your home runs on gas, rather natural or liquid petroleum, it is always best to check all sources on a regular basis. Stoves, dryers, water heaters, etc. all have a pilot light that always stays lit. Make sure to read up on the manual of these appliances to look for any warning signs that something isn’t right. If you smell even a hint of gas or can see the pilot light is higher than normal, call your gas provider to come out and have them check your incoming gas or contact a local tradesman to come check your appliances. A lot of house fires are electrical. Make sure to always turn off anything that stays hot and unplug it from the outlet when you are not using it. For example, curling irons, straightening irons, wax burners, heaters, video games, and clothes irons are all common things that can catch fire easily. Also, make sure to blow out candles when leaving the room for an extended period of time.

Commercial Fire Restoration

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Fire

Commercial fire damage resulting from a utility room fire or electrical fire can lead to massive losses for business owners. Your commercial property is left in a complete mess due to smoke damage, soot damage, or water damage when there are no fire suppression and fire restoration systems. It takes a lot of time to complete the fire damage restoration process, and this affects business activities in a negative way. It is advisable to restore your business premises as soon as possible after a utility room fire or an electrical fire using the services of professional firefighters.

Commercial fire damage can be minimized by restoration professionals that use specialized equipment such as a fire truck, a fire hose, and the fire sprinkler system. The only way a firefighter can prevent further damage is by beginning the fire restoration process within the first few hours. The fire suppression process involves the use of specialized in fire damage restoration equipment like a fire hose and a fire truck. Professional firefighters should use the right process when restoring soot damage, smoke damage, and fire damage. Commercial fire damage restoration involves the following steps.

Emergency Response

Professional contractors have hotlines that clients can call when faced with utility room fire or electrical fire. The fire suppression process involving the use of a fire hose and a fire truck should begin within the first 90 minutes. The entire restoration process after a utility room fire or an electrical fire should be carried out by certified firefighter using recommended equipment like a fire sprinkler system. The contractors arrive at the scene with all the fire suppression equipment such as firefighter engines, a fire hose, a fire truck, a fire sprinkler system, and a fully stocked fleet of vans.

Detailed Fire Damage Assessment

This stage involves assessing the commercial fire damage by finding out the structural integrity of the business premises and the condition of belongings. After assessing the entire building for soot damage, smoke damage, water damage, and general fire damage, the firefighter must prepare a quote for the entire process. Inspection enables the contractor to identify the source of the fire, the type of fire, and the level of soot damage. The contractors present the cost estimates to the insurance agent or the property owner.

Ensuring Property Security

The restoration company has the responsibility of securing the property of their client during the restoration process. Some thieves may take advantage of the confusion during a fire incident to steal the owner’s property, and that is why contractors must put in place the necessary security measures to ensure that all the materials and items in the building are well secured. Apart from the commercial fire damage, it is important to ensure that there are no further losses through theft. The property is normally left vulnerable because the fire compromises the strength of doors, walls, roofs, and windows. The premises must be well secured during the entire process to prevent all incidences of theft.

Water Damage Remediation

Water damage can occur during the firefighting process because the fire sprinkler system and other firefighting systems end up leaving a lot of water in the building. The sprinkler systems leave the building wet and flooded. The contractor must remove the water from the building and ensure that it remains dry. This can be achieved using various drying and dehumidifying techniques.

Smoke and Soot Removal

Soot and smoke cleanup is a very important process during fire restoration. The process involves removing soot and smoke from surfaces of the property, furniture, and personal belongings. It is possible to mitigate soot damage and smoke damage using specialized equipment like the fire sprinkler system. There should be complete cleaning and sanitization to ensure that there are no traces of soot or smoke odor.

Property Restoration

There must be some repairs and reconstruction in a fire damage recovery process to guarantee complete restoration. Some of the reconstruction processes may include painting of walls, repairing baseboards and ceilings, plumbing repairs, and wall reconstruction. Soot damage and smoke damage can be restored through painting. Fire restoration may also involve replacement of the flooring and the titles.

Call SERVPRO of Greene County at 423-638-1104 today for all your commercial fire restoration needs. We will make it "Like it never even happened." 

How To Deal With Furnaces Suffering Puffback

11/8/2020 (Permalink)

Puffback damage is a stinky, unsavory situation that must be addressed

When excess fuel accumulates inside your furnace’s burn chamber, vapor explosions trigger what is known as puffback damage. Read on to learn what causes heaters to suffer from this condition and what to do if this becomes your reality.

Why Puffback Disasters Occur

There are a few reasons for this particular malfunction:

• Leaks in or surrounding the combustion chamber
  
• Accumulation of unspent fuel within the burners
  
• Clogs inside the chimney or exhaust flue
  
• Overall lack of proactive maintenance
  
  

Gas furnaces are just as susceptible to furnace puffback as those that burn oil. Never clean either type yourself as doing so may cause more harm than good.

How To Handle Puffback Disasters
Furnace soot is a sticky mixture that is difficult to remove, smells awful and gets everywhere. Before a mess caused by puffback damage begins bothering your staff, contact a commercial soot cleanup professional to treat your building in Greene County, TN.
Because soot from a broken oil furnace can float into adjacent air ducts, your entire building can be affected. Compromised furniture and filing cabinets need to be sanitized. Electronic equipment, such as copiers and computers, requires special care, as prolonged exposure to pollutants may trigger malfunctions. Complete decontamination and deodorization of rugs, walls and ceilings may be necessary.
Contact your insurance provider after completing an assessment. These scenarios are covered under most policies. Thoroughly document every observable piece of destruction with photographic and video evidence, since doing so reduces the chances of your claim getting rejected.
After sanitizing your space and reporting the incident, contact an HVAC technician to repair your heater. Consider the time of year, as it may make sense to rush your order so that the job is complete before winter’s arrival.
Puffback damage is a stinky, unsavory situation that must be addressed. When your company’s furnace starts acting up, employ professionals to set the matter right.

3 Hotel Fire Prevention Tips

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

It is important to make sure your employees know what to do during a fire

Three Fire Prevention Tips

Approximately, 3,900 motel and hotel fire incidents occur in the United States annually, resulting in $76 million in property damage, according to FEMA. To avoid safety risks for guests and potential property damage and lost income, hotels and motels must take precautions to prevent fires. Consider these three fire prevention tips when creating your fire prevention plan.

1. Perform a Fire Risk Assessment
To protect yourself against fire hazards, you need to first understand what those hazards are. A fire risk assessment should involve identifying your risks, such as faulty wiring or broken appliances, and what you need to do to address those risks. You should record what you discovered and any changes you made. Your risk assessment should be periodically reviewed and updated.

2. Provide Staff With Fire Safety Training
Your guests will look to your employees for guidance if a hotel fire occurs, so it is important to make sure your employees know what to do during a fire. Employees should be aware of steps they need to take to prevent fires, such as proper housekeeping, and steps they should take when a fire alarm sounds, such as using the proper exit route.
It is also helpful to provide your staff with a list of people to contact when fire damage occurs. This list should include your insurance company and contractors in Timber Ridge, TN, to assist with fire restoration.

3. Install and Test Alarms
Your fire detection and alarm system is your strongest defense against widespread fire damage. Smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month. Alarms should be loud enough to wake sleeping guests and visual alarms should be provided to alert guests with a hearing impairment.
A hotel fire can pose a serious risk to guests and employees and severely damage your property. Proper fire prevention can reduce your chances of incurring a severe loss.

The Benefits of Choosing One Company for Mitigation and Repair

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage in Greene County, TN

The fire damage repair process can be lengthy. First, the destroyed items have to be removed. Then everything has to be cleaned and repaired. One way to streamline this process is to hire the same company in Greene County, TN, to do both cleanup and restoration. There are a couple of key advantages to doing so.

One Estimate

When your commercial building catches fire, an insurance adjuster will likely want to survey the damage to see what can be covered. You will need an estimate of the cost of all the work that it will take to get your building back to normal:

• Extraction of water used in fire suppression
  
• Removal of materials that cannot be salvaged
  
• Cleaning of smoke and soot
  
• Drying of all surfaces
  
• Rebuilding structure
  
• Replacing ruined materials
  
  

Rather than having to wait on an assessment from two different companies, hire fire mitigation experts who also specialize in restoration.

One Team
The initial assessment may not catch everything that needs to be done to your building. Once technicians start working on the fire damage, they are likely to discover other problems that they must resolve. When you hire one team to complete both mitigation and restoration, you can rest assured that everyone is informed of any changes to the process that occurs. By the time the specialists get to the final repair step, they know exactly what needs to be rebuilt, and they know who to ask if they need further clarification. One team makes clear communication more likely, which may shorten the amount of time it takes to get your building functional again.
You don't want anything to make the fire damage repair process any longer than it has to be. It starts with assessment and ends with restoration. Hiring one team to do the whole job instead of splitting up remediation and repair can save time and give you more accurate information for your insurance claim.

The Most Common Causes of Home Fires

6/7/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Horse Creek, TN

Fire departments around the United States respond to fires every 24 seconds. This serious statistic highlights the need to understand the common fire causes that affect Horse Creek, TN. With the right information, you may be able to prevent a home fire from disrupting your family's life.

The Most Common Causes of Fires in the Home

Fires can start in just about any room of your home, so the best way to avoid fire and smoke damage is to install alarms appropriately. Check out some of the most common causes of residential fires:

• Home grills left unattended or used improperly
  
• Cooking equipment left unattended or used improperly
  
• Hot work leading to structural fire
  
• Wiring and other electrical components are damaged
  
• Cigarettes dropped or not put out
  
• Furnaces or heaters used inappropriately
  
• Washing machines and clothes dryers are not properly maintained
  
• Children playing with fire
  
  

Fortunately, you can take some quick and easy steps to avoid a home fire. These include remaining alert when you're cooking or have a fire lit anywhere in or around your home. Keep up with proper maintenance for all of your home's heating and appliance systems. Watch out for damaged wires and respond immediately when switches or outlets spark or fizz.

The Damages Caused by Home Fires
There are many ways fire causes harm to homes, including smoke damage, burned materials, and destroyed belongings. The efforts taken to put out fires may cause further damages, such as holes in the roof or water damage from fire hoses or sprinkler systems. Professional fire cleaning and repair technicians can put your home into its pre-fire condition, but you'll be better off if you can prevent a fire from happening at all.
Just one home fire is too many. Make sure you understand how to avoid the most common types of residential fires, so you can take steps to keep your home and family safe.

The Best Way To Clean a Dryer Exhaust

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

It can be easy to overlook a clothes dryer exhaust until lint buildup or blockages pose a dryer fire risk. Homeowners should regularly clean the lint trap, vent tube and exterior vent. Here are the most effective cleaning methods to prevent a lint fire.

Clean the Lint Trap

The lint trap is the easiest dryer component to maintain on a daily basis. The following measures can reduce the amount of lint that ends up in the vent pipe:

• Clear the trap by hand after each load
• Remove impacted lint from the screen with a firm-bristled nylon brush
• Check for holes in the screen
  

A clean, intact lint trap can limit buildup in the dryer exhaust system. Regular maintenance may prolong the amount of time between vent pipe cleanings.

Use a Vent Pipe Cleaning Rod

A homeowner should clear out the dryer vent pipe a few times a year. Several vent cleaning rod variations may be useful:

• A manual vent cleaning rod
• A vent cleaning rod with a power drill attachment
• Extended cleaning rod brush heads
  

Insert the cleaning rod into the vent pipe to clear out lint. It may be necessary to remove and reinsert the rod several times. Clearing blockages will reduce the risk of a lint fire.

Clean the Exterior Vent

A long wire brush is useful for clearing lint out of the exterior vent. A professional dryer exhaust cleaning service can thoroughly clean the system every year or so to prevent buildup in places that may be difficult to reach with consumer-grade equipment.

These cleaning methods can reduce the risk of a lint fire at a residence in Tusculum, TN. If a homeowner does not have these tools on hand, he or she should hire a cleaning service. If a dryer fire damages building materials or contents, homeowners can rely on fire damage mitigation and restoration professionals.

What to Throw Away After a House Fire

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

The potency of your pills could be affected by high heat exposure

Things You Should Trash After a Home Fire

A house fire can leave a devastating effect on its unlucky victims, but the hardest part of recovery is deciding what to salvage and what to throw away. It is heartbreaking to let go of sentimental things, and trashing smoke damaged food feels like a waste of money. However, the health implications of eating food that was exposed to soot, smoke, and heat are higher than the cost of restocking a pantry and fridge.
Here is a list of things you should trash after a home fire:

• Foodstuffs
  
• Cosmetic products
  
• Exposed medications
  
  

Perishable and Non-Perishable Food

All foods exposed to high heat, smoke and firefighting chemicals should be thrown away without exceptions. The last thing you want is to eat anything that survived the blaze and end up with food poisoning or something worse. The chemicals used to put out fires are bad enough, now add soot plus other contaminants, and you’ll get a lethal dose with every bite.

Cosmetics

Most cosmetics are a bunch of chemicals that change their composition when exposed to high heat, smoke, and other substances. Even if they don’t have any sign of burning on the packaging, the products can still cause skin irritation and hair damage. For that reason, throw away everything in the bathroom cabinet that survives the fire.

Medicines

The potency of your pills could be affected by high heat exposure. On top of that, the meds could be laced with firefighting chemicals, soot, and other toxins. As a rule of thumb, toss all medications away even if they don’t have any visible signs of fire damage.
As a homeowner in Tusculum, TN, never attempt to salvage things that could put your health at risk. It is better to throw away everything when in doubt. Alternatively, have a restoration company help with the sorting and recovery processes to avoid any long and short term health implications.

Everything You Need To Know About Content Cleaning

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Protect your home from fires with fire alarms

After your Greenville, TN, home has been struck by a fire, your belongings can also be affected. While items hit by fire damage can no longer be used, the items hit by smoke and soot can still be salvaged through a procedure known as content cleaning. From dry-cleaning to careful storage, fire repair specialists can help you restore these items through multiple steps.
Removal From the Residence
The first step in the cleaning process involves removing the applicable contents from the house. Your home will be undergoing repairs and construction, so specialists will remove them to place them in a secure location until that process is finished. Depending on the items and the damage they suffered, they are either placed in specialized storage ready for cleansing or disposed entirely.
The Cleaning Process
The cleaning phase depends on multiple factors, from the material the product is made from to the extent of the damage. The cleaning technicians have a plethora of methods for your possessions.

Dry-cleaning for clothing and lighter damage
Wet cleaning for heavier damage
Ultrasonic for non-porous items
Abrasive or foam for items when wet cleaning is not recommended

It is important for the specialists to choose the correct technique. The wrong procedure can severely damage the item instead of restoring it to its previous state.
Storage and Return
Once the items are sufficiently cleaned, they are stored and ready for return. Content storage, both before and after the cleaning, places the items in a climate-controlled location that can protect the items from the hot temperatures of the summer or the cold temperatures of the winter. Your items are safely placed until your home is fully repaired. The facility workers inspect the items to ensure everything is there and are transported back to your location.
When performed by experienced professionals, content cleaning restores your possessions to their former glory. Whether the items need dry-cleaning or ultrasonic treatments, any soot, ash or smoke residues can be eliminated.

4 Reasons to Have Renter’s Insurance

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Renters insurance is a reliable, cost-effective way to be prepared for the unexpected

4 Reasons to Have Renter’s Insurance

Renters in Jearoldstown, TN, count on their landlords to handle most everyday issues with the rental. When a theft, accident or event happens, personal property is not typically covered by the landlord’s policies. Renters insurance is a relatively inexpensive addition that can provide peace of mind when it comes to an array of issues, including fire restoration and an injured guest. Below are four reasons to get a policy as soon as possible.

1. Protect Your Belongings

Whether its theft, fire damage or water incident, the loss of personal property can be frustrating. This type of protection, depending on the policy, will cover replacement and repair costs. In the case of fire, it will also help pay a professional for restoration services. It’s important to remember that it might be a rental, but it is still a home stocked with furniture, clothes, artwork and much more.

2. Protect Your Guests

If a slip happens outside your premises, it is likely that landlord will be liable for an injury. If a guest is bitten by a pet or injured inside your rental, you could be held responsible for covering some, or possibly all, of the medical bills. This insurance protects you so you don’t have to cover costs out of pocket.

3. Cover Incidentals

If a fire, pipe burst or similar event happens, it’s not just your belongings that could be affected. If there is extensive damage, it will require extensive repairs that may require temporarily relocating. Most policies include loss-of-use protection, which may cover the cost of other housing and food during renovation.

4. It’s Affordable and Versatile

Simply put, renters insurance is affordable and worth the money you could lose out on if you don’t have it. While it varies across agencies, on average it costs around $15 per month. Along with not breaking the bank, this insurance isn’t a one-size fit all. There are different options to ensure you have the coverage you need.
When it comes to the things you love, don’t take a risk. Renters insurance is a reliable, cost-effective way to be prepared for the unexpected.

Protect Your Family From Home Fires

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

Replace devices every 8-10 years

Protect Your Family From Home Fires

According to the Institution of Fire Engines, the majority of homes in the United States are missing a fire alarm or more. This is based on the group's visits to homes throughout the United States and in those homes, smoke detectors were either not working or were missing altogether. It's well-documented that working smoke and fire detectors are key to preventing injuries and death during a home fire. For the best results, these detectors should be placed

• Inside every bedroom
  
• Outside the bedrooms (i.e. in the hallway)
  
• On every level of the home, situated near stairways and kitchens
  
  

In addition to placing an adequate number of detectors throughout your home, it's crucial that batteries are replaced at least once or twice a year. It's best to test the batteries quarterly.

Replace Devices Every 8-10 Years

Fire alarm maintenance should include replacing the devices when they get old. Too many homeowners are vulnerable to smoke damage and fire damage because they don't replace old detectors. These devices are designed to last for about eight to ten years. It's easy to remember when to make a change if you note the date of purchase on the back of the alarm with a permanent marker.

A Variety of Detectors

You can avoid a lot of fire damage cleanup by installing multiple types of detectors in your home. There are two types of smoke detectors to consider: photoelectric alarms and ionization alarms. Photoelectric alarms are better at sensing a smoky fire, and ionization alarms are more sensitive to a fast-moving fire.

The Three-Minute Window

Many modern furnishings are made of materials that burn very hot and fast. This means you probably only have three or four minutes to get out of a burning home. Connected smoke alarms will wake you up even if the fire has started on another floor from your bedroom. Consider putting voice alarms in your children's rooms because studies have shown that most children sleep through alarms.
Don't neglect your fire alarm; protect your family and Timber Ridge, TN, home from fire damage with routine maintenance. Fire cleanup and remediation professionals in your area can focus their efforts on other remediation projects.

What a Business Should Do for Fire Preparation

6/25/2019 (Permalink)

Locate emergency exit signs in your building

Things You May Want to Consider While Creating an Emergency Fire Plan for Your Business

Many emergency professionals and restoration companies recommend that every business has a contingency plan in case of a fire. If your company in Romeo, TN, is creating or updating your emergency plan there are a few things you may want to consider during this process.

1. Be Aware of Safety Equipment and Procedures

Before creating your plan it's important to note any important safety procedures or equipment use protocols that may be relevant to your business. This may include things like the locations of emergency exits or fire extinguishers, but also the proper way to use any machinery.

2. Make an Easy To Follow Emergency Plan

When creating the contingency plan it's important to keep it as simple and easy to follow as possible. This will help ensure that every employee has the ability to understand any included instructions. You may also want to include a list of emergency contact information such as local fire departments or doctors, as well instructions for any professionals that may need to be contacted after a fire is put out. This may include insurance agents, or restoration professionals.

3. Inform All Staff What the Plan Contains

After the evacuation plan has been formulated, it's important to inform all employee about what it contains. This way everyone knows where important tools such as fire extinguishers are, the closest exits to their workstations, and where they should meet outside in the event of an emergency. It's also recommended to post this information where employees can easily access and study it.
When creating a contingency plan for your company, it's important to be aware of any safety equipment and procedures that can apply. Doing these things can help you formulate an easy-to-follow plan that should then be shared with every employee in the building. You may also want to include emergency contact information, as well as important numbers for clean up afterward.

3 Ways to ensure your home is getting the proper Fire Restoration Services

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage at a local home.

After you’ve escaped your home and had firefighters extinguish the flames, it might feel like your job is done. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. To ensure your home’s getting the proper treatment and fire restoration services it really needs to get back to normal, you’ll need to do just a few things.

3 Ways to ensure your home is getting the proper Fire Restoration Services 

* Call your insurance company

* Steer clear of your property

* Contact a fire and smoke cleaning crew in Greeneville, Tennessee.

By taking these steps, you can rest assured you’re getting the maximum amount of help when it comes to getting your home back in livable condition.

1. Insurance

After emergency services, your insurance company should be your first call. With most plans, fire insurance is included, and it likely covers at least some of the damages to your home. Agents can direct you to cleanup professionals supported by your plan, and help you financially throughout the entire process.

2. Call in the Professionals

Once you’ve spoken to your insurance agent, it’s time to call in the cleaners. One of the most crucial services these types of pros offer is an emergency board-up, which means they’ll quickly and expertly patch any damaged portions of your roof or siding to keep rainfall from causing even more hardship.

3. Find Somewhere to Stay

It’s critical to remember that in most cases, you won’t be able to live in your house again until repairs are complete. Therefore, you should find a family member or friend to stay with in the meantime. If none are available, consider finding a hotel to for the time being. It’s always good to make these decisions ahead of time as a part of your fire escape plan.

It’s not always easy to break through the shock of a house fire and get things on track. By following these steps as closely and quickly as possible, you can get your life back on track sooner.

Lint Control for Fire Safety

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Clean your lint trap clean after every use

Lint Control

Not only does lint buildup reduce the effectiveness of your dryer, it can pose a serious fire hazard. Residents of Greene County, TN, should be aware of the following lint fire prevention steps.

1. Cleaning the Trap

The first and most effective piece of advice is to maintain the dryer itself. Clean the lint trap after every use by scraping a small piece of lint into a ball and dragging the clump into every corner of the trap. Moistening your hands or the trap can help to reduce the number of lint particles that get into the air. Also be sure to check the lint trap slot, as this can be another source of fiber accumulation that can result in a dryer fire. Use detergent or alcohol periodically to clean these crevices within the dryer as well as the surrounding floor.

2. The Hose Connection

Around once a year, you should unplug the dryer and pull it away from the wall in order to maintain the hose and outlet. Lint can become trapped after it exits the dryer, creating another potential source of ignition and fire damage. Remove the screw-on clasps connecting the flexible hose to the dryer and the wall. Inspect the hose for damage, and replace it if the outer metal coating shows holes or other obvious wear and tear. Otherwise, simply clean the hose with a wet cloth or wide brush to remove buildup that could result in lint fire.

3. The Wall and Exterior

The final step is tricky, but still needs occasional attention. Since the wall pipe that leads outside is fixed, the usual cleaning method involves a power drill attachment with a rotating brush. These are available at most hardware stores. The exterior vent should be cleaned by hand to remove any residue.

A thorough inspection of the various pieces of your home dryer system can prevent a lint fire and the need for professional fire restoration.

What’s an Emergency Board Up?

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Board up home after fire damage in Greene County, TN

When facing fire damage or another crisis, weather event, or emergency forcing you to leave your home, there are a million things to consider. The last thing on your mind may be protecting what’s left of your property. Yet securing your home is essential to protecting you from further loss and damage. If you need to vacate your Greene County, TN, residence for an undetermined amount of time, learn how an emergency boarding service can help you.

What Services Are Involved?

A board up may sound like a straightforward proposition, but in fact, there are many different services that can be involved. Boarding up a property can include:

• Tarp services
  
• Lock securing
  
• Roof covering
  
• Structure stabilization
  

These useful services are all in addition to the standard securing of windows, doors, and any other significant openings.

Why Get Board Up Services?

Once your home has been seriously damaged by fire, flood, weather, or another calamity, it’s easy to think that nothing worse could happen. But that can be an expensive misconception that vandals and even thieves bank on. Criminals often specifically target damaged but not destroyed properties looking for furniture, clothing, jewelry—even food. Weather can also pose a threat, getting into your home through compromised doors and roofs and creating new headaches.

What Does It Entail?

Emergency board up services specialize in securing your building top to bottom. Professionals will typically assess vulnerable areas in addition to standard windows and doors, as well as help stabilize the structure to prevent more destruction. The final step is securing damaged areas using everything from tarps to old-fashioned plywood.

Whether from flooding, fire, explosion, or any other crisis, every home is vulnerable to catastrophic damage. If you’re struggling with a disaster or simply want to be prepared for one, make yourself familiar with board up services to prevent further destruction.

The Wet Side of Residential Fires

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Tusculum,TN

Nobody wants to watch a home go up in flames. Unfortunately, for even Tusculum,TN, homeowners with a prevention strategy, house fires sometimes occur. When you think about fire damage, you probably focus on both smoke and flame damage. You may not, however, consider the water damage that accompanies most residential fires.

Extinguishing House Fires

Often, when a residential fire breaks out, firefighters use expertise and equipment to battle it. For most fires, firefighters take the following steps:

• Ensure the house is vacant
• Locate the source of the fire
• Use water and chemicals to extinguish blazes
• Monitor the home to ensure the fire does not reignite
  

Dowsing Residential Blazes

After firefighters locate the source of a residential fire, they routinely use water to extinguish the blaze. Depending on water pressure, a fire hose can pump more than 100 gallons of water per minute onto a house fire. If a blaze is large, firefighters may use many hoses when battling a fire. While some of the water turns into steam and evaporates, much of it remains inside the home. As a result, following a fire, homeowners routinely have to address both water damage and fire damage.

Measuring Water Damage

Water has a way of working itself into both large and small spaces. When firefighters pump water onto a blaze, it often ends up on all levels of a home. Further, if pipes break during the blaze, additional water can enter the house. When measuring the damage caused by water, inspectors must examine all parts of the dwelling. Even if the fire resulted in minor fire and smoke damage, the effects of water can be considerable.

When homes are salvageable after a fire, restoration specialists work to remediate the effects of both water and fire damage. By understanding the extent of damage from house fires, you can better plan for preventing them.

Commercial Property Insurance and Your Business

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial insurance for your property is usually written to provide coverage when your property is affected by problems such as fire, theft, and even natural disasters. Although this type of coverage can be expensive, it is usually well worth the investment. In fact, many types of businesses deduct insurance premiums as expenses to ensure access to the emergency coverage, should the need arise.

Determining Factors of Commercial Property Insurance Costs

Just how much the coverage costs may be determined by several factors. Before you meet with a commercial insurance agent, take stock of your physical assets to determine how is worth insuring and what the cost of replacing those assets would be. Some examples include

• Office equipment and furnishings
• Company documents, such as accounting records and client referrals
• Inventory kept in the building
• Landscaping elements and equipment
• Signs and advertising supplies

Of course, there are other factors to consider.

• The type of work done in the building is likely to affect how much you'll pay for coverage. For example, a low-risk office building typically costs less to insure than a business that deals with combustible materials.
• If you work outside of city limits where it would be difficult and time-consuming for emergency response crews to reach you, you'll probably pay more for coverage.
• Older buildings and those built with subpar materials cost more to insure because they are more likely to suffer extensive damage. Check the fire rating on your property to learn more.
• If you have worked with your insurance agency to take preventative steps, you may pay less for the coverage you want. For example, an up-to-date fire alarm and working sprinkler system can minimize fire damage and result in lower coverage costs.

This coverage could be the financial protection you need when your building has been affected by fire or other disasters. In addition to covering assets, it may also cover the cost of restoration specialists.

As you determine whether to invest in commercial insurance in Greeneville, TN consider the value of your assets, the cost of coverage, and whether you can afford not to be protected. After all, when you depend on the business for your livelihood, there may be too much at risk not to insure. Visit http://www.SERVPROgreenecounty.com for more information on fire damage. 

Furnace Maintenance: 3 Times To Have a Checkup Performed

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

Keeping your Greeneville, TN, home’s furnace maintained can ensure years of trouble-free service.

Your Greeneville, TN, home’s furnace keeps your home warm and toasty all winter long while providing you with simple and energy-efficient usage. However, a neglected furnace might result in higher energy bills, uneven heating, and other issues. A fire cleaning and restoration service can advise you about the most efficient way to use your home’s furnace, and knowing when to call them in for help and maintenance might help you get the most out of your heating unit.

1. After Summer Ends

Once the warm weather ends and fall sets in, it is wise to have your furnace inspected and tuned up. Call in a heating and cooling service to clean and inspect the ducts, replace the air filters and put in a digital thermostat if you do not yet have one. Having your unit cleaned and service can ensure it will work for you when you need it the most.

2. After a Major Storm

Heavy snow and ice can affect your home’s power system and cause shorts and outages that might affect the furnace. After a serious storm, have techs come in to check that the furnace’s power supply is stable and that no major systems have been damaged. If your furnace experienced a short, ask your techs about smoke cleaning services that can eliminate any unpleasant smells.

3. When You Hear Odd Noises

If your furnace starts to make strange noises, such as banging, groaning or rattling, these could be signs of a malfunction in the making. Contact your fire cleaning and restoration service for advice and have their technicians help you find a furnace specialist, if needed, or to have them come out and inspect the unit. Not all noises are cause for alarm, but you may want to investigate any sound you do not recognize.

Keeping your Greeneville, TN, home’s furnace maintained can ensure years of trouble-free service. Whether you call in a fire cleaning and safety company or a local furnace specialist, it is a good idea to include proper furnace maintenance at the top of your to-do list. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROgreenecounty.com/.

15 - How To Rid Your Home of Smoke Smells

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke cleaning after a house fire involves more than just removing soot or smoke damage from the home or creating extra air flow.

#15

After a fire, your home will need some serious smoke cleaning to repair the damage. With a smell that intense, simply opening up the windows isn’t going to suffice. Professional odor remediation specialists in Greeneville, TN, can eliminate smoke odor in your home through the use of special techniques and equipment. Here are three examples of these techniques.

1. Air Filtration Devices

The most basic machine the professionals use is an industrial-strength version of the air purifiers you can buy at the store. An air filtration device with an activated carbon filter works by trapping odor molecules in the filter as the air flows through it. When these gases cannot escape, they deteriorate rapidly. The odor in the room is eventually neutralized.

2. Thermal Foggers

Thermal foggers use heat and deodorizing chemicals for the smoke cleaning process. They simulate the conditions that were present in the fire (i.e., heat and air pressure). Porous surfaces react to these conditions and absorb the deodorizers, just like they absorbed the smoke odor during the fire.

3. Ozone Machines

A third method for eliminating the smell of smoke in your home in [City, State], after a fire is through the use of ozone machines. Think of how the air smells outside right after it rains. The ozone machine mimics what nature does to purify the outside air. It produces molecules of ozone, also known as activated oxygen. The extra atom of oxygen in ozone attaches to smoke particulates and breaks them down. After a while, the air smells fresh and clean because everything that was making it stink has been neutralized.

Smoke cleaning after a house fire involves more than just removing soot or smoke damage from the home or creating extra air flow. When you hire experts for odor remediation, they use equipment that actually eliminates the source of the smell so that it does not return. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROgreenecounty.com/.

What to do After a Fire in Greene County

3/31/2018 (Permalink)

In Tennessee, Greenville, TN and most parts of the world, the distressing fact about fire loss is the fact that some things can never be regained. Most of these things include physical items such as pictures, furniture, heirlooms and air quality. Apart from physical objects, mental losses such as security, psychological trauma and rest are some of the losses that are hard to be recovered after an incident with fire.

However, there exist absolute methods by which all the stress incurred during fire loss can be minimized at large. This action needs to be taken by a homeowner living in Greeneville, TN as it has an effect of giving back a certain percentage of the control lost during the fire accident. It is difficult for homeowners to see their property being burnt down especially if you had worked your butt off to own a house.

It’s even harder to see your items being consumed and you cannot do anything about it or save anything you love. The action requires immediate cleanup and recovery to help in gaining the lost control. For this process to be facilitated, every homeowner is always advised to select a fire cleanup and a fire restoration Company with a record of providing efficient and fast services.

In most cases, these fire cleanup services are required to be contracted early so as to mitigate the damage incurred during the fire incident. What surprises most homeowners is that most of the things that are destroyed include water damage. Water damage from fire in most cases is as devastating as the fire if the cleanup process doesn’t begin immediately.

Most homeowner insurance policies in Tennessee and Greeneville provide cover against fire damage. This stipulates that the cleanup service starts immediately to be able to circumvent the great loss that could have been incurred. If water damage from fire is given an opportunity to proliferate it can result into something far more dangerous such as mold. If the cleanup services began working on the property immediately, smoke damage and soot damage could have minimal impact.

There exist various comprehensive clean up service companies that respond quickly when their services are required. These companies are seen to have a certain level of empathy in understanding what their clients are facing which leads them to become the guides that are responsible for delivering the client throughout the cleanup process.

In most instances, the companies are second to the first responders when it comes to helping families recover from the fire accident. It is important always to ensure the company you choose can do the required work as choosing the wrong company may set the process backward.

Fire damage, smoke damage and soot damage all share one thing in common which is the fact they are irreversible. Even so, smoke and soot can be cleaned and air quality restored, by contacting these companies, a lot of things such as pictures, heirlooms, important papers among others can be saved from waters and fire damage.

Thus it is important for every homeowner to have a contact of any fire restoration company as it comes in handy when you require their service. You should not suffer due to smoke or soot when there are companies who can assist you. Visit http://www.SERVPROgreenecounty.com for more information on steps to take after a fire.

Dealing with a Fire Loss in Greenville, TN

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Here are some basic steps to follow when handling a fire loss in Tennessee.

1. Carry out an Inspection Find out and establish the possible causes of the fire. Insurance providers in Greeneville, TN area use this as a requirement before coming to your rescue. You should also assess the losses to estimate roughly the total amount of work to be done.
2. Salvage Salvaging involves saving undamaged property. First, ensure that the site is safe to access; some fires may result in collapse of the aftermath. After your safety is assured, rescue as much property as you can.
3. Get Expert Assistance Soot, which is as a result of smoke, is likely to accumulate in areas such as ducts and pipes. It is advisable to have them inspected, repaired and cleaned up by a professional.
4. Do it yourself Some simple repairs and maintenance services do not necessarily require professional help; you can simply do them yourself and save on costs. Be careful with DIY techniques though since some damages may require an expert. 

For more information entailing disaster restoration services and prevention, please visit www.SERVPROgreenecounty.com.

Key Tips on Fire Damage Restoration

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

Key Tips on Fire Damage Restoration

You may have heard of commercial fire damage services, but you might not know what their services entail. Fire damage can cause extensive loss and reduce your valuables to ashes. This is where fire damage restoration services come in. When fire in the home or fire in the business strikes, you need to salvage whatever you can to avoid further losses. To do this, you need to act first. Fire cleanup is therefore critical towards preserving what is left after a fire.

Commercial fire damage companies have trained technicians who are also firefighters. These professionals are trained in providing fire damage restoration to deal with fire in the home or fire in the business. Professional fire cleanup comes after the fire fighters, fire trucks and fire hose devices have been used. Fire cleanup services are time sensitive. This is why these firms operate round the clock. They are also trained to deal with smoke smell, soot damage and smoke damage. They go beyond the basic roles of a firefighter.

A certified fire restoration company hire firefighter technicians who have gone through training from organization such as the Cleaning and Restoration certification (IICRC). With proper training, these firefighters are able to offer fire clean up services. A professional fire restoration company will also provide drying services. Water is used to put out fire and this leaves water damage.

A fire hose and a fire truck are crucial in putting out a fire. These emergency services are crucial. However, fire restoration experts go beyond what can be done using a fire hose and a fire truck. In fact, these are the experts that should be called once the fire hose and fire trucks have completed their task.

Fire damage restoration services also include water removal. Lingering moisture can provide a good breeding ground for mold and other fungi. Commercial fire damage companies are also experts in water and mold removal. The three services go hand in hand. The smoke smell, soot damage and smoke damage also need to be addressed. Soot can discolor and damage household items. When hiring a fire restoration company, ask about their soot damage, smoke smell and smoke damage removal methods.

When you experience a fire in the home or fire in the business, board up services are crucial. A board up is one of the best ways to secure your home or business and to prevent further damage. Board up services can be used to secure the roof, windows and doorways.

Electrical fires are some of the most common causes of fire. An electrical fire can be caused by outdated or old appliances and faulty outlets. Using appliances with a worn out or frayed cord can easily cause an electrical fire. This fire can easily send heat to other surfaces and items such as curtains, floors and rugs. It is best not to place running cords under the rugs as this can easily cause electrical fires.

Another common fire occurrence is utility room fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association, about 15,000 utility room fires are reported every year. A utility room fire can easily happen when a hot drier comes into contact with a flammable component. Again, most people use their utility rooms to store flammable items. This only increases the risk of a utility room fire.

Fire restoration professionals use a fire suppression and a fire sprinkler system. These two systems may appear similar but a fire suppression and a fire sprinkler system are different in their applications. Ideally, a fire sprinkler system uses water to control, extinguish and minimize the spread of fire. Whereas a fire suppression system mainly uses chemicals or foam agents to put out a fire. A fire expert will know when to use a fire sprinkler system and when a fire suppression system is more ideal.

When you encounter a fire, seek the expertise of commercial fire damage companies. They are trained to handle fire damage, soot damage, smoke damage and other after effects of fire.
Visit http://www.SERVPROgreenecounty.com for more information on fire damage.

The Ins and Outs of Selection a Fire Damage Restoration Company

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

The Ins and Outs of Selection a Fire Damage Restoration Company

A fire at your home or business represents one of the most traumatic experiences you can face during the course of your lifetime. With that in mind, you must understand the essential ins and outs associated with selection a fire damage restoration firm. In the final analysis, when it comes to recovering from a fire in home or a fire in business, nothing is more crucial than the decisions you make in regard to selection a qualified, reputable fire damage restoration firm.

Check Out the Individual Fire Damage Specialists at a Restoration Company

A key step that you need to take when selecting a fire damage restoration company is taking a close look at the individual fire damage specialists employed by a particular firm. In the aftermath of a fire in home or fire in business, you need to make sure that the company you hired has specialists that have specific experiences in addressing all aspects of fire damage restoration. This includes property board up and initial fire cleanup as well as having the capability to fully address soot damage, smoke damage, and smoke smell.

You also need to be absolutely certain that every member of a fire damage remediation team is fully insured and bonded. Every member of the team must be appropriately licensed as well.

Confirm the Equipment and Technology Utilized by a Restoration Company

In determining which restoration company will provide you with the best services following a fire in home or fire in business, find out what a firm specifically utilizes in the way of fire damage mitigation and restoration equipment. You need to make certain that a firm possesses the proper equipment to address residential or commercial fire damage.

Oftentimes, the latest technology does prove to be the most effective and efficient when it comes to satisfactorily resolving and remediation residential or commercial fire damage. A restoration company should be willing to provide you detailed information of the equipment, technology, and processes it employs to address residential or commercial fire damage.

Verify that a Fire Restoration Company Provides Comprehensive Services

You will want to be certain that a restoration company provides a comprehensive array of residential or commercial fire damage remediation and restoration services. A company that provides comprehensive serviced handles everything from initial board up and fire cleanup to mitigating soot damage, smoke damage, and smoke smell. Not only does selecting a comprehensive firm prove to be efficient, making this type of selection typical proves to be cost effective as well. Obtaining one provider to deal with all aspects of fire cleanup and restoration, including addressing soot damage, smoke damage, and smoke smell, cannot be minimized.

Verify Rapid Response Capabilities

Another important factor that is part of the overall ins and outs of engaging a remediation service after a fire in home or fire in business is rapid response capabilities. When it comes to mitigating fire damage, rapid response is crucial. For example, the board up process must commence immediately. The failure to initiate board up directly after a fire in home or fire in business can result in an aggravation of loss and opens the doors to looting, particular in the case of commercial fire damage.

The essential fire cleanup process must also commence immediately. Because mitigating water on the premises is crucial, the initiation of essential fire cleanup cannot be minimized. In addition, issues like soot damage, smoke damage, and smoke smell are best addressed when they are not permitted to unnecessarily fester.

Contrasting Fire Damage Restoration Pricing

There can be some notable differences in the pricing of fire remediation services. Although time certainly is of the essence following a residential or commercial fire, you do want to devote an appropriate, reasonable amount of time and effort to compare pricing on these services. By doing so, you will be able to identify a comprehensive, reputable remediation services with a reasonable, fair pricing structure.
Visit http://www.SERVPROgreenecounty.com for more information on fire damage.

The Tricks and Tips of Professional Fire Damage Restoration

7/27/2017 (Permalink)

The Tricks and Tips of Professional Fire Damage Restoration

After a fire razes down a house, you have a huge task of smoke damage restoration, dealing with the smoke smell, and replacing the damaged items. Considering that the firefighters might have used some chemicals and water to extinguish the fire, the restoration company must be wary of the messy floor. You need a commercial fire damage specialist since a combination of soot, smoke, and burnt wood can be quite difficult to remove during the fire damage restoration.

Remember that besides the smoke damage, the debris might have some nails and other sharp objects that can pose some risks to your family. As such, home remediation after fire damage is a risky job that you should not attempt without help from the commercial fire damage company. The fire damage professionals will undertake some assessments to ensure that the crew is not exposed to the smoke smell. When handling the aftermath of a fire in home walls, such structural assessments are critical if you want to prevent the accidents that can happen during the fire cleanup and soot damage repair process.

Improving the ventilation after fire damage is vital if you want to get rid of the smoke. Since the smoke and soot can pose some risks to the fire damage restoration crew, it is vital to recirculate the air and eliminate the toxins. The smoke and soot will affect the drapes, furniture, walls, floors, and carpets. It is vital to remove the carpets, furniture, and textiles from the house before you begin the job. Cleaning the soot and smoke residues from the walls will also help to cleanse the air. If you do not have a HVAC system to handle the smoke damage, introduce a fan after a fire in home ceilings to circulate the air. Open the windows and doors to get rid of the toxins in the case of a fire in business premises. Running the dehumidifier will also help to get rid of the moisture as well as the toxins within the humid air. After a fire in home surfaces, remember to replace the filter in your HVAC system to improve its performance during the fire cleanup and soot damage restoration. By taking such precautions after a fire in home walls, you can prevent the possibility of suffocation under the smoky conditions.

Estimate the extent of commercial fire damage
When it comes to commercial fire damage, you must engage a restoration company to handle the job. The smoke smell will linger for weeks if the fire in business carpets is not extinguished in time. Besides the stains that come with the fire in business walls, the smoke smell can be harmful.

As the restoration company dries the surfaces, it is vital to undertake a fire and water cleanup. During the board up and smoke damage restoration, start by removing the damaged floors, handrails, and drywall. Undertake a thorough water cleanup before you begin disinfecting the house. Document the fire damage by taking pictures and writing some notes. Alternatively, a home inspector can help you to estimate the cost of fire cleanup and soot damage repair before you contact your insurance company.

Remove the soot with Trisodium Phosphate
When it comes to fire damage restoration, TSP is a popular cleaner that eliminates the smoke from the surfaces. Undertake a light cleanup with water before you use the TSP. Remember that TSP is a strong fire cleanup detergent that gets rid of the stains. Since this detergent is corrosive, delegate the soot damage remediation job to a professional fire damage restoration company to avoid problems. TSP can get rid of all signs of fire in business surfaces.

Avoid accidents during the board up restoration
Repairing the ceiling and roof comes with some risks. Beware of the hanging materials during the board up. Using ladders in a house after fire damage can be risky since the walls might crumble. A restoration company can undertake the board up operations in a safe way.
Visit http://www.SERVPROgreenecounty.com for more information on fire damage.