Recent Fire Damage Posts

Fire Damage Restoration: Recovering Your Home After the Flames

Name: SERVPRO of Martin County
Address: 1235 NE Savannah Road, Suite 102, Jensen Beach, FL, 34957
Telephone: (772) 334-8762

5/17/2024 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Restoration

The aftermath of a fire can be devastating. The emotional toll is immense, and the physical damage to your home can seem overwhelming. But amidst the chaos, there is hope. Fire damage restoration services can help you reclaim your life and rebuild your home.

The Immediate Aftermath

Safety is paramount following a fire. Once the fire department has cleared the scene, prioritize your safety and the safety of your loved ones. Do not enter the building until it has been deemed safe by a professional. Next, contact your insurance company to begin the claims process.

The Restoration Process

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When various materials burn, the soot they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure.

Emergency Board-Up: Securing your home against further damage from the elements is crucial.
Debris Removal: Burned materials and debris must be removed to create a safe working environment for restoration crews.
Smoke and Soot Removal: Smoke and soot can permeate walls, ceilings, and belongings. Professional cleaning techniques are necessary to eliminate lingering odors and prevent corrosion.
Structural Assessment: A qualified structural engineer will assess the extent of damage to the building's framework.
Water Damage Mitigation: Firefighting efforts often result in water damage. Addressing this promptly is crucial to prevent further issues like mold growth.
Content Restoration: Fire and smoke can damage furniture, belongings, and cherished keepsakes. Content restoration specialists can clean and restore salvageable items.
Reconstruction: Reconstruction may be necessary depending on the damage's severity. This could involve rebuilding walls, repairing electrical systems, or replacing roofing.

The Importance of Content Restoration

Many people assume their belongings are lost in the wake of a fire. However, advanced cleaning techniques can restore a significant amount of content. SERVPRO of Martin County specializes in content restoration. Our team utilizes various cleaning methods like:

Dry Cleaning: A gentle cleaning method for smoke-affected fabrics and upholstery.
Wet Cleaning: A more intensive cleaning method for heavily smoke-damaged items.
Spray and Wipe Cleaning: A quick cleaning technique for lightly soiled surfaces.
Foam Cleaning: Effective for cleaning carpets and upholstery with deep-seated smoke and soot.
Abrasive Cleaning: Used for hard surfaces like tile and porcelain.
Immersion Cleaning: A method for cleaning heavily smoke-damaged clothing and fabrics.

Preventing Fire Damage: Proactive Steps for Safety

While fire damage restoration can help you recover, preventing a fire in the first place is ideal. Here are some proactive steps you can take to minimize your risk:

Install Smoke Alarms and Fire Extinguishers: Smoke alarms are essential for early fire detection. Ensure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them monthly. A readily available fire extinguisher can be crucial in containing a small fire before it grows.
Practice Fire Escape Plans: Develop a fire escape plan for your family and practice it regularly. This plan should include designated escape routes and a meeting place outside your home.
Maintain Cooking Areas: Cooking is a leading cause of home fires. Never leave cooking unattended; ensure your stovetop and oven are clean and grease buildup-free.
Keep Flammable Materials Away from Heat Sources: Store flammable liquids and materials like gasoline, paint thinners, and cleaning solvents away from heat sources like water heaters and furnaces.
Inspect and Clean Electrical Systems: Have your electrical system inspected regularly by a qualified electrician. Overloaded outlets and faulty wiring are fire hazards.

SERVPRO of Martin County: Your Trusted Partner in Recovery

SERVPRO of Martin County is a trusted leader in the restoration industry. Our highly trained technicians respond quickly to your needs, offering comprehensive restoration services from fire damage to water damage and mold remediation. We understand the emotional toll of a fire, and our team is dedicated to providing compassionate and efficient service. Our "restore versus replace" mentality prioritizes saving your precious belongings and saving you money.

Don't navigate the fire damage restoration process alone. Contact SERVPRO of Martin County today for a free consultation. Let us help you recover your home and rebuild your life.

Phone: (772) 334-8762

Address: 1235 NE Savannah Road, Suite 102, Jensen Beach, FL 34957

How to Handle Fire Damage Emergencies: SERVPRO of Martin County's Expert Advice

6/22/2023 (Permalink)

Servpro of Martin County Team Fire restoration

How to Handle Fire Damage Emergencies

How to Handle Fire Damage Emergencies: SERVPRO-Martin County's Expert Advice

Quick and efficient action is crucial when faced with the aftermath of a fire. In such situations, SERVPRO-Martin County, a trusted leader in fire damage restoration, provides expert advice to help you navigate through the process. With their extensive experience and state-of-the-art techniques, their team offers comprehensive solutions to mitigate fire damage and restore your property to its preloss condition.

In the event of a fire, it is essential to prioritize safety by ensuring everyone is out of harm's way and contacting emergency services immediately. Once the fire is extinguished, the next crucial step is to enlist the services of professionals like SERVPRO-Martin County. Their trained technicians swiftly assess the extent of the damage, develop a personalized restoration plan, and employ advanced equipment to eliminate smoke, soot, and lingering odors. From structural repairs to content cleaning and deodorization, their team handles every aspect of the restoration process with precision and care.

Don't let fire damage disrupt your life any longer—Trust SERVPRO-Martin County's expertise and dedication to restoring your property. Visit SERVPRO for more information and take the first step towards recovery. Act now and let the professionals handle the fire damage emergency, allowing you to focus on rebuilding and moving forward.

Fire and Smoke Restoration Plan

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Fire and Smoke Restoration Plan

A fire can be a devastating experience, and the thought of restoring fire damaged property can seem overwhelming.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), a fire department located somewhere in the United States responds to a fire every 24 seconds. Furthermore, it’s estimated that fires each year account for more than $25.5 billion in direct property damage costs.

You don’t need to wait for holidays to have a Fire and Smoke Restoration plan ahead. Even though accidents involved Fire and Smoke are more likely to be during the holiday season, it’s very important to be aware off, and manage a Fire and Smoke Restoration plan to be able to overcome any issues.

Assessment: Assuming you have already called for emergency service, the first step in the process is the assessment. Upon arrival, the team will assess and inspect the entire premises.
Mitigation: Next, the team will begin mitigating damage. With a house fire, all systems are compromised. As such, the team will need to turn off the water to the house, shut off the electricity system, and ensure there are no gas leaks. Then, they will take steps to remove smoldering ashes from the affected areas.
Cleanup: Next comes the cleanup portion of the process. The team, using advanced equipment and techniques, will clean smoke, dust, and soot from all surfaces in the area.
Restoration: Lastly, the team will repair, replace, and restore any damaged components around the house. They will work quickly and efficiently to restore furniture, cabinets, carpet, and wallpaper, and will even paint where necessary.

At SERVPRO we focus on restoring versus replacing because restoring the affected areas of your property is significantly less costly than demolishing and replacing those areas. This “restore first” mentality also allows us to get your home or business back to pre-fire condition quicker and with less disruption.

To avoid the stress of having to deal with all the restoration work by yourself, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Martin County. The process of restoration begins when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Have questions about Fire and Smoke Restoration? Call SERVPRO of Martin County today – (772) 334-8762

Top Tips for Fire Safety

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Top Tips for Fire Safety

When a fire starts, there is a limited time for you to escape or find a safe place. Some fundamental tips for fire safety will help you to be prepared in case of an emergency.

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas.
It is also essential to ensure the alarms are working correctly, checking them monthly and changing batteries whenever needed.
Be attentive in the kitchen, and keep kids and pets away from heaters and candles.
Ensure that an adult is present if you have something frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling.
Only purchase space heaters that shut off automatically when they fall over, and always place them on level, nonflammable surfaces.
You must get out fast if a fire occurs in your home. Sit down with your family and work out an escape plan in advance.
If you have children, teach them what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
If an electric appliance smokes or has an unusual smell, unplug it immediately, then have it serviced before using it again.
Replace any electrical cord that is cracked or frayed.
Plug only one electrical cable into each receptacle.
Avoid running any lines under rugs. Don't tamper with your fuse box or use improper size fuses.
Make sure everyone knows how to call 911.
If a fire occurs in your home, get out, and call for help.

After a fire is handled, there are some tips you should implement as part of your recovery process, such as:

Pay attention to how you and your loved ones are experiencing and handling stress.
Check the outside of your home before you enter. Look for loose power lines, broken or damaged gas lines, foundation cracks, missing support beams, or other damage. Damage on the outside can indicate a severe problem inside. Ask a building inspector or contractor to check the structure before you enter.
Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from embedding into upholstery and carpets.
Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
Blow or brush vacuum loose soot particles from upholstery, drapes, and carpets.
Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
If electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator, and open prop doors.
Discard any food that has been exposed to heat, smoke, or soot.
Clean and protect chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances with a light coating of Vaseline or oil.
Wash house plants on both sides of the leaves.
Change the HVAC filter.
Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

At the same time, there are some tips about things you shouldn't do after a fire, such as:

Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without contacting a professional.
Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your professional.
Attempt to clean any electrical appliances, TV sets, radios, etc., that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
Use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water. (They may be contaminated.)
Turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be wet or damaged.
Send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each requires a unique solution tailored to the specific conditions. When various materials burn, the soot and residue they create change significantly and require a specific cleaning procedure.

This is why at SERVPRO of Martin County, we work hard to give the best support and service, making this process as easy as possible for you and your family! First, we must balance the damage caused by fire, smoke, and water (from firefighting efforts). This is important to know what we need to do during the first specialized cleaning process.

We also have a specialized fire and water damage cleanup team, professionally trained and equipped to restore all spaces to the even better condition they were before the fire. Our purpose is to make you feel stress-free about the restoration because you are in excellent hands, and everything will return to normality as soon as possible!

If you have any questions about the process, timing or costs, please do not hesitate to contact us at (772) 334-8762 or visit us at 1235 NE Savannah Road, Suite 102, Jensen Beach, FL 34957.

What should you do in the First 24 Hours After a Fire?

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

What should you do in the First 24 Hours After a Fire?

Recovering from a fire can be a physically and mentally draining process. Often, the hardest part is knowing where to begin and who to contact. However, it is fundamental for you to understand that after a fire, the first 24 hours are the most crucial time.

Initially, let friends and family know you're safe. If you have children, leave them with a relative or friend while conducting the first inspection of your home after the fire. The site may be unsafe for children, and seeing the damage firsthand may upset them and cause long-term effects, including nightmares.

You must never forget the 4 most essential warnings after a fire.

Please do NOT enter the site unless it has been deemed safe.
Do NOT attempt to turn on utilities yourself; the fire department should determine what is and is not safe to turn on and off.
Keep a watchful eye for structural damage.
And lastly, ANY food, beverages, and medicine that have been exposed to heat, soot, smoke, or water should NOT be consumed under ANY circumstances.

Contact your local disaster relief service to help with your immediate needs, like:

temporary housing
food
medicine
eyeglasses
clothing
other essential items

People and animals seriously injured or burned should be immediately transported to professional medical or veterinary help. And stay out of fire-damaged homes until local fire authorities say it is safe to re-enter.

Contact your insurance agent or company and let them know about the situation and what actions you should take, such as:

Dwelling requirements,
Covering doors and windows affected by the fire
Water removal – if any resulting from fighting the fire
Immediate food and shelter provisions

Also, beginning immediately, save receipts for any money you spend. These receipts are essential in showing the insurance company the money you spend on your fire loss and verifying losses claimed on your income tax.

Do not discard damaged goods until an inventory has been taken. All damages are taken into consideration in developing your insurance claim. If you are considering contracting for inventory or repair services, discuss your plans with your insurance agent/company first.

As you leave your home, you should contact your local police department to let them know the site will be unoccupied so that they can be aware of any abnormality, such as trespassers.

Some companies specialize in the restoration of fire-damaged structures. Be clear about who will pay whether you or your insurer employs this service. Be sure to request an estimate of the cost of the work. Before any company is hired, check their references. T

The first 24 hours after fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO's 148 Service Response Guidelines* can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems.

Under normal circumstances, within one hour from notice of a loss, a SERVPRO of Martin County will contact you to arrange for service. Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO of Martin County will be on-site to begin mitigation services. Finally, within eight business hours, a verbal job briefing will be communicated to the appropriate person.

SERVPRO of Martin County provides timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke, and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. These services help restore your property and belongings to the preloss condition when possible.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to help you make it "Like it never even happened." Why Take the Risk? Call SERVPRO of Martin County at (772) 334-8762.

What happens during the fire damage restoration process?

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

What happens during the fire damage restoration process?

Damage caused by a fire can be vast – that goes without saying. However, there are many levels to fire damage that most of us aren’t even aware of. There is structural damage, an overwhelming smoke and soot odor, damage to belongings, and water damage from extinguishing the fire.

Assess structural damage
Once the structural damage has been assessed, any obvious breaches or ingress points need to be sealed. This refers to holes in the ceiling, broken windows, and missing doors.

Look for further damage
It’s not only the obvious damage (from smoke and fire) that the professionals are on the lookout for, but sometimes the water used to put out the fire can cause structural and mold damage, too.

Removal of debris
The removal of debris needs to happen quickly in order to reduce the intensity of the smoke odor. In larger fires, you will need to pack up and remove personal belongings to prevent them from being damaged further and recontamination.

Removal of water
Any standing water needs to be cleared up and, as water will soak into absorbent surfaces (walls, floorboards, and even seep down to the next level in a multi-story building), air movers will need to be used to accelerate the drying process.

Deep cleaning
Unfortunately, not everything can be saved. Many professional products can polish surfaces and remove smells, but this may be a very time-consuming process – and often replacement may be a better option.

As you can see, fire damage restoration is more than just cleaning and repairing places that fire has touched. You have to take into account how fire transforms the foundation of the home as well as the contents within. Making these tough decisions while under the stress from what just happened isn’t easy.

At SERVPRO of Martin County, restoring your home or business after fire damage to its pre-fire condition is our main goal. As a leading fire damage restoration company, we specialize in fire and water damage restoration, removal of smoke odors, and deep-cleaning soot from walls, carpets and upholstery.

Do You Have a Fire and Smoke Restoration Plan?

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

Fire and Smoke Restoration

Few events parallel the destruction caused by fire, smoke and soot. When it does however, many services, processes and techniques need to occur to restore a property back to preloss condition. Fire and smoke damage can be devastating, and requires more service and expertise than an ordinary contractor or house cleaner can provide.

The Main Steps of Restoring Your Property After Fire And Smoke Damage

Assessment. The first step in the process, assuming you have already called for emergency service, is the assessment. Upon arrival, the team will assess and inspect the entire premises. They need to know the true extent of the damage. In doing so, they can make a clear plan on how best to move forward.

Removal of Fire, Water, and Smoke Damaged Materials. Make sure all wet materials are removed. The last thing you want to have to deal with is mold damage after the fire.

Your Belongings. Your washing machine will not get the soot and smoke damage off your clothes. Every single item in your closet and drawers needs to be laundered. All your furniture will need to be cleaned. Even your electronics will have soot and ash caked inside. Fires do a lot of damage. Professional Restoration Crews will do all the packing and take a careful inventory of every item… They will not return the items until the restoration to the home is completed.

Restoration. Lastly, the team will repair, replace, and restore any damaged components around the house. They will work quickly and efficiently to restore furniture, cabinets, carpet, and wallpaper, and will even paint where necessary.

If you have suffered through a recent house fire, please do not hesitate to call your local SERVPRO. We proudly offer 24-hour fire damage restoration services to the community.

Helpful Tips to Clean Your Home After a Fire

11/26/2021 (Permalink)

Tips to Clean Your Home After a Fire

After a fire, cleaning up your home may be a challenge if major damage occurred. However, there are a few things you can begin by doing to initiate the cleaning process. Let us share some of these tips with you.

Never forget to wear protective gear before entering the property to reduce chances of injury’s. Wearing items such as face masks, eye protection, proper footwear and even a hard hat will protect you. Make sure you open all windows and doors once inside to air out the lingering smoke that may be left behind along with dangerous chemicals. You can start throwing away clothes and items that are no longer in their best condition. During this cleaning process you’ll be able to see how much damage occurred in both the exterior and interior part of your home and this help you determine if contacting professionals is necessary.

At SERVPRO of Martin County, you can count on us to help you clean your home after a fire. Call us today at (772) 334-8762, or visit our website at https://www.SERVPROmartincounty.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration if you want to learn about the cleaning and restoration services we offer. Find us in Palm City, Jensen Beach, Stuart, Hutchinson Island, Hobe Sound, and Port St. Lucie.

Helpful Tips to Clean Your Home After a Fire

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

Tips to Clean Your Home After a Fire

After a fire, the thought of having to clean up your home, especially if the damage is severe, can be overwhelming. However, there are a couple of simple things you can do to start cleaning up your home. Let us share some of these tips with you.

If you don’t already have these items, it’s important to wear safety gear such as safety goggles, face masks, work gloves and closed toe shoes when entering the property. Make sure you pay close attention to details of both the exterior part of your home and the interior, so that when you contact professionals, they will be well aware of the areas that need attention. If there is ash that you want to clean up, it’s best to start from the rooftop and dispose of it into the garbage. The best option, however, is to call the professionals, especially if there is a lot of damage.

What is smoke damage and why is it harmful?

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Martin County has the experience to repair smoke damage and deodorize your home or business after a fire

Smoke damage and why is it harmful

Smoke damage occurs when a fire has taken place and things have been coated by the smoke from the flames. With smoke damage, things aren’t completely destroyed as when fire has touched the objects, but it’s more about how objects have been covered by ashes leaving a strong odor behind. Many may think that smoke damage is harmless compared to fire damage, however, it can be just as dangerous and destructive because if not appropriately cleaned, smoke damage can be harmful to the lungs, especially if you or a family member suffers from asthma or heart disease.

How do you clean up smoke damage after a fire?

Cleaning up smoke damage depends on what kind of objects or materials have been affected. If it’s your clothes, then it is recommended you wash them in hot water with a good strong laundry detergent. If it’s your walls, some recommend mixing a solution of white vinegar with warm water to clean up the black residue. However, hiring experts in the matter becomes a huge advantage for you and your home and belongings.

With SERVPRO of Martin County, you can rest assured they will clean and restore any damage from smoke or fire that has occurred. Most importantly, we are available with a 24-Hour Emergency Service team of highly trained Fire Restoration Technicians. Covering Palm City, Jensen Beach, Stuart, Hutchinson Island, St. Lucie County, Hobe Sound, and Port St. Lucie, let us take charge of cleaning up and restoring your home, which will make the process go so much faster and remain stress-free for you and your family as we can.

Avoid Fire Damage Emergencies this Valentine's Day

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

Avoid Fire Damage Emergencies

While fire emergencies can result from multiple causes, there is never a convenient time or occasion to deal with fire damage. Although, according to data, fire departments across the country respond to home fire emergencies every 86 seconds on average, there are different preventive measures people can take to avoid such emergencies in different scenarios or on special occasions, including Valentine’s Day.

At SERVPRO of Martin County, we want to make sure that the only flame burning bright in your life is the flame of love. To make safety a priority on this special occasion, here are four safety tips to help you avoid fire damage on Valentine’s Day:

Candle management: when using candles to decorate a room or a dinner table, there are a number of things to consider whenever evaluating risk. From the type of candles, candleholders and the stability of surfaces, to the presence of kids or pets moving around the house, it is important to evaluate whether using open-flame candles is safe enough in your current living conditions. If using candles, keep them at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn (drapes, blankets, loose paper, decorative items) and avoid leaving them unattended, while extinguishing them before leaving the room. For safer options, consider battery-operated candles that can give a similar look compared to the real ones.

Consider decorations: although mylar helium balloons can be a beautiful way to decorate your Valentine’s dinner, you need to secure them by making sure they can’t fly away. The outer material of these balloons conducts electricity, which can make them explode when in contact with power lines. The effects could be as small as sparks or as big as knocking down a power line, creating an outage.

Cook safely: according to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), 50% of house fires start in the kitchen. Fire resulting from unattended cooking is the most frequent cause of residential fires. For Valentine’s Day, practice safe cooking tips from beginning to end, including cleaning appliances thoroughly before using them, not leaving food unattended or leaving the kitchen when frying or broiling. Be sure your oven and stove are far enough away from curtains and other flammable materials.

Check out your heaters and smoke detectors: when doing preparations for Valentine’s Day, it is important to inspect the proper functioning of devices that can either cause a fire or detect fire on any level. If using portable heaters, give them enough space by ensuring they are at least 3 feet away from window curtains, furniture, sheets or any decorative items susceptible to heat. Also, make sure you check out your smoke detectors before cooking to ensure that they are in good condition. Fix any installation issues and change the batteries if needed.

If an emergency takes place and restoration services are needed, SERVPRO´s fire and water damage cleanup team is professionally trained and equipped to restore all spaces to an even better condition they were in before the fire. If you are a home resident of Palm City, Jensen Beach, Stuart, Hutchinson Island, St. Lucie County, Hobe Sound or Port St. Lucie, SERVPRO of Martin County has mitigation and cleaning services and a team of professionals available and ready to assist you whenever needed. Call us today at (772) 334-8762.

How do you get rid of the smell after fire damage?

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Servpro of Martin County - Fire Damage Restoration

Get rid of the smell after fire damage

During a fire, the smoke extends throughout the building and gets absorbed in porous materials and objects such as wood, furniture, textiles, carpeting, drywall and air ducts. Although acting quickly after a fire can make a difference when it comes to the overall indoor air quality of the building, if the structure of the building remained intact, it is very likely that the smoke became trapped inside.

Though cleaning up after a fire and seeing the state of your possessions can be devastating when the awareness of what has been lost is realized, having adequate guidance on what to do can be crucial to preventing the current damage from escalating. If your property has been unfortunately affected by fire damage, here are five cleaning steps to perform to get rid of the persistent smell resulting from either burned materials or objects exposed to the fire.

Ventilate the property: opening windows and doors while cleaning out the house will let out the smoke smell while allowing fresh air to come in. When airing out rooms, try to use fans in doorways in the direction towards windows to push out the smoke odor.
Wash surfaces: from furniture, counter-tops, shelves, wood surfaces, tile floors, and baseboards, wash all surfaces with a solution of water (1 gallon), a cup of white vinegar and a teaspoon of dish soap or shampoo. Using a spray bottle, spray all solid surfaces and scrub them thoroughly. Then wipe them with clean cloths and repeat the process if a strong smell keeps coming from the cleaned surfaces.
Remove and clean curtains and soft fabrics: by using regular washing detergent and a cup of white vinegar in your washing machine in a cycle of warm water, you can clean soft fabrics such as sheets, drapes and clothing. White vinegar is a heavy-duty cleaner ideal when trying to get rid of smells or difficult spots, so a long cleaning laundry cycle should be enough to clean and deodorize your fabrics.
Clean and vacuum existing carpets: for carpeting and upholstery that has absorbed smoke particles, a 3-hour treatment of baking soda can help to neutralize the odor. Before deciding to clean it completely, sprinkle baking soda on your affected carpets and use a broom on the area to help spread it. Let it sit for a few hours and then vacuum it until all existing baking soda is removed. If the odor persists, consider hiring professional cleaning services.
Call for help: while these steps are essential to avoiding smoke odor becoming a worse air condition problem that poses hazardous to occupants of the building, getting professional help from SERVPRO of Martin County will certainly make a difference in the process of cleaning and repairing your property. At SERVPRO we have all the industrial cleaning equipment ready to give all the surfaces and contents of your home a thorough cleaning. Let our team make your loss "Like it never even happened.” When fire or smoke damage affects your home or business, call SERVPRO of Martin County at (772) 334-8762, or visit our Blog online for more information: https://www.SERVPROmartincounty.com/blog

Do You Have a Fire and Smoke Restoration Plan?

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

Do You Have a Fire and Smoke Restoration Plan?

Get expert restoration from a name you trust. When a tragedy like a fire occurs, you can rely on SERVPRO of Martin County to get your life normal. Remember, the first hours after a fire are vital and this is the importance of have a Fire and Smoke Restoration plan.

Inspect: The fire damage restoration process begins with an inspection of your property to determine the extent of the damage.
Pre cleaning: Perform an initial pre-clean of smoke-affected property to halt the damage for a cost-effective and successful restoration project.
Smoke odor reduction: SERVPRO of Martin County uses several tools and techniques to reduce smoke odor including negative air containment, deodorization, ozone, sealing, and thermal fogging.
Cleaning: Cleaning is a SERVPRO of Martin County specialty so you can rest assured that all affected areas of your home or business will be thoroughly cleaned and restored. Once the process is complete our expert staff will return and replace your personal items.

We have a specialized fire and smoke restoration team serving in Palm City, Jensen Beach, Stuart, Hutchinson Island, Saint Lucie County, Hobe Sound, Port Saint Lucie, which is professionally trained and equipped to restore all spaces to an even better condition they were before the fire. Our purpose is to make you feel stress-free about all the restoration because you are on really good hands and everything will go back to normality as soon as possible!

If you have any question about the process, timing or costs, please do not hesitate to contact us at (772) 334-8762 or visit us at 1235 NE Savannah Road, Suite 102 Jensen Beach, FL 34957.

What To Do If You Had Fire Damage

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

What To Do If You Had Fire Damage

Having a fire is one of the worst things that can happen to a family. A small fire can be harmful enough; a big fire can be deadly to everyone in the household and devastating to your property.

If you had a fire in your home or office, the first thing to do is to call 911. Let the firefighters handle the damage and don’t try to enter the property until the authorities declare it’s safe to do so. If there are any hurt people, you can provide first aid while the ambulance arrives.

The priority is to ensure the well being of the people in the household, both physically and emotionally. Make sure that anyone who was hurt receives adequate medical treatment. Pay attention to how you and your loved ones are coping with the situation and try to promote emotional recovery.

If you have pets, you need to look after them as well. If your pet or pets are hurt, look for veterinarian attention. Comfort them if they are stressed and keep them somewhere safe until the authorities declare it is safe to re-enter the house.

These are some actions you can take after a fire in your home:

Contact your local disaster relief, as they can help you find food, clothes, medicine, and other things you may need.
If you have insurance, contact them. Ask them for instructions on what to do and find out their coverage. If you don’t have insurance, contact community groups and ask for assistance.
Check with the fire department when it’s safe to enter the home.
Contact your landlord or mortgage and report the fire.
Contact a cleanup and restoration company as soon as possible to repair most of the damage.
Try to find valuable documents and records. Replace those that were damaged.
If you leave your home, notify the police that the site will be vacant.
Save all the receipts for all the expenses related to the fire, as you could need them with your insurance company and to prove any losses on your income tax.
Check with an accountant or with the IRS about special benefits for people recovering from fire damage.

If you would like more resources on fire recovery, check out this hub compiled by the American Red Cross.

At SERVPRO of Martin County, we hope you and your family are able to get through the painful experience of a home fire both physically and emotionally. We would also love to help you out with our fire damage restoration services.

SERVPRO of Martin County is faster to any size disaster and is available to assist you with your emergency with its highly trained restoration technicians and equipment, covering 24 hours of emergency services.

Each fire emergency is different, so the process we would need to follow differs according to the extent of the damage and the materials involved. Our technicians will assess the situation and come up with a specific plan for your restoration process. The “typical” fire damage restoration follows this course:

Emergency contact
Inspection and fire damage assessment
Immediate board-up and roof tarp service (if needed)
Water removal and drying (if water damage is present)
Removal of smoke and soot from all surfaces
Cleaning and repair
Restoration

See our fire damage restoration process for more details.

If you had a fire, call (772) 334-8762 today, and we’ll help you restore the damage like it didn’t even happen. If you don’t, save our number for later emergencies!

Helpful Tips to Clean Your Home After a Fire

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

Tips to Clean Your Home After a Fire

Seeing your home and possessions consumed by fire can be one of the most severe losses that a homeowner can experience. After such a devastating loss, reassurance comes from having clear guidance and support in salvaging as much as possible from fire and smoke damage. Cleaning up fire damage in your home can be both physically and emotionally exhausting. During this confusing time, it’s important to know what to do and who to contact.

After authorities have given the go-ahead to enter your home, it’s up to you take the necessary steps to clean up. If you don’t think you have the time or ability to completely repair your home, it’s important to hire professionals as SERVPRO of Martin County to complete the cleanup. Ensuring your family, a safe home is invaluable.

· If the temperature is above 60 degrees, air out the house to reduce smoke odor. Remove any items that will attract mold growth, such as curtains, clothing, and other wet fabrics. Wash all items with a strong detergent. If it cannot be washed, it should be thrown away.

Clean laminate surfaces as well as chrome, porcelain and aluminum fixtures to prevent permanent tarnishing or etching.
You shouldn’t eat or drink anything that has been near the flames, soot, or smoke. Anything that is in a cardboard box or that has been opened must be thrown out. Food in cans or freezer foods with ice crystals are salvageable.
If the electricity is off, clean out the refrigerator and leave doors propped open.
After valuables, trash, and salvageable items have been removed, it’s important to dry out flooring to prevent future damage, including mold growth. Create adequate ventilation by opening windows, doors, and turning on ceiling fans and vents. Your goal for your flooring should be determining if water has seeped underneath the floorboards and carpet mats. If so, the flooring may need to be replaced. Our professional of SERVPRO of Martin County are trained in fire/water cleanup and will be able to tell you if your flooring needs to be replaced.

There is no substitute for training and experience. As fire and water damage specialists, our business is built upon fire and water restoration expertise. We have the knowledge and the specialized equipment to get your property back to pre-fire condition.

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (772) 334-8762

Fire Damage Restoration for your business and home

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Restoration for your business and home

Has your house or business ever been on fire?

We hope it was not your scenario, but, if it has happened, you already know how hard restorations can turn. One of the most common struggles that keeps on consuming large sums of property, money and lives is fire. However, return to normal activities is possible with a company specialized in fire restoration training to restore your business or home to pre-fire condition.

There are various things a person has to make sure that are done after being affected by a fire, so that the situation can be adjusted back to normal. Here the following steps SERVPRO of Martin County practice for a regular fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process start when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event and that way we will respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

We cautiously inspect and test connecting rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

We also have a specialized fire and water damage cleanup team, which is professionally trained and equipped to restore all spaces to an even better condition they were before fire. Our purpose is to make you feel stress-free about all the restoration because you are on really good hands and everything will go back to normality as soon as possible!

If you have any question about the process, timing or costs, please do not hesitate to contact us at: (772) 334-8762 or visit us online for more info:

https://www.SERVPROmartincounty.com/fire-repair-process

Safety tips to avoid fire damage on Valentine’s Day

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Safety tips to avoid fire damage on Valentine’s Day

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, couples all around the United States are getting ready for a romantic candlelit dinner with their loved one.

We want to make sure that the only flame burning bright that day is the flame of your love. That’s why we present you with 5 safety tips to avoid fire damage on Valentine’s Day.

Candles are very romantic, but they can become the source of a fire if proper precautions are not taken. Keep them at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn (drapes, loose paper, decorative items), place them on sturdy candle holders, and never leave them burning while you’re away from the room.
If you want the relaxing smell of a candle to help you set the mood, you can use wickless candles, which warm up the wax without flame. However, check your electrical connection and supervise the candle for at least 30 seconds after turning on the candle to make sure that it works properly, as they have been known to cause explosions.
Mylar helium balloons are a beautiful way to decorate your Valentine’s dinner, but you need to make sure they can’t fly away. The outer material of these balloons conducts electricity, which makes them explode when in contact with power lines. The effects could be as light as sparks or as big as knocking down a power line, creating an outage.
Preparing a romantic dinner is a beautiful gesture for your significant other, but love should not make you forget the necessary precautions while cooking, like leaving unsupervised food on the stove or oven. Never try to cook the food without defrosting it first: ice will expand and create steam, which can lead to a fire or burns.
Before you start setting up the decorations, check that the fire alarm system is working properly. Doing this will ensure that you can remediate any fire before it’s too late.

We hope these safety tips are enough to avoid fire damage on Valentine’s Day. If you or a friend should be unlucky enough to get a fire during their celebration, don’t worry! Just call SERVPRO^® of Martin County, we’ll be faster to any size disaster!

We work really hard to give the best support and service, making this process as easier as possible for you and your family. When you find yourself in this situation, you should call us as soon as possible in order to damage restoration be easier and cheaper.

First of all we have to make a balance of the damage caused by fire, smoke and water (from firefighting efforts). We’ll start by asking you questions about the fire and the extent of the damage on the phone, and then we’ll send SERVPRO technicians to do an assessment.

We have a specialized fire and water damage cleanup team, which is professionally trained and equipped to restore all spaces to an even better condition they were before fire. Our purpose is to make you feel stress-free about all the restoration because you are on really good hands and everything will go back to normality as soon as possible!

If you have any question about the process, timing or costs, please do not hesitate to contact us! So get in the mood for love and rest assured that we will make it "Like it never even happened."

Phone: (772) 334-8762

What is the average cost of fire damage restoration?

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

What is the average cost of fire damage restoration?

Oh, no! The worst thing that you could imagine happened: fire in your home or office. Something as simple as leaving the stove on too hot for too long can cause a fire. And once the flames are gone, you’re left with burned and damaged appliances, personal items and even structures.

Repairing or renewing all of this is a long, arduous labor and, of course, it costs money. Unfortunately, it’s not easy to give a typical cost for fire damage restoration, because the prices vary greatly according to the extent of the damage.

According to Home Advisor, the average cost nationwide for fire damage restoration is of $13,761, but prices can be as low as $3,157 or as high as $29,118. In Florida, the average cost would be $3,156.

Some of the factors that influence the final cost of fire damage restoration are:

Extent of the damage.
Amount of burned items, appliances and structures that need to be replaced.
Damage done by heat.
Damage done by smoke and soot.
Odor removal.
Potential repair for chemical damage (from extinguishers).
Potential water damage restoration (from burst pipes or firefighting efforts).

The only way to know for sure how much restoration for your property will cost is to call a restoration company like SERVPRO^® of Martin County. Our professionals will ask you several questions to gauge the extent and severity of the damage and to know which types of equipment we need to repair it.

After the initial emergency contact, SERVPRO technicians will arrive to your home or office and take the necessary steps to restore the damage. Although the specifics vary according to the variables described before, fire damage restoration typically includes:

Inspection and fire damage assessment
Immediate board-up and roof tarp service (if needed)
Water removal and drying (if water damage is present)
Removal of smoke and soot from all surfaces
Cleaning and repair
Restoration

If your property has just suffered from fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Martin County, and we will help you to leave your home or office "Like it never even happened." If you’re just researching for disaster preparedness, save our number for later on!

Phone: (772) 334-8762

Cleaning Up After a Fire

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning Up After a Fire

SERVPRO of Martin County understands the anxiety that comes with a fire and the interruption it causes to your life, home, or business. Our goal is to help minimize the disturbance to your life with our fire damage restoration, and make it "Like it never even happened."

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When various materials burn, the soot it creates differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure.

When we arrive to the restoration space first of all we run Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment to identify the area, follow by Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service, afterwards we remove smoke and soot from all surfaces, and finally we run Cleaning and Sanitizing process followed by Restoration. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration.

Step 1: Emergency Contact
Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service
Step 4: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing
Step 7: Restoration

What happens when you contact us for Cleaning up after a fire?

To avoid the stress of having to deal with all the restoration work by yourself, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Martin County. The process of Cleaning up after a fire begins when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources.

After the fire trucks leave, your home or business likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Martin have the specialized Cleaning up after a fire training needed to restore your home or commercial property.

Have Questions about Cleaning up after a fire? Call us Today – (772) 334-8762

Fire and Smoke Restoration plan

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

Fire and Smoke Restoration

Did you know…. There are products of such scenes usually classified as bio - hazardous materials, and they require special handling that ordinary people are generally not knowledgeable in? When having questions such as, having a Fire and Smoke Restoration plan ahead will help you to understand many issues related to a fire scenes and most importantly how to react and address Fire and Smoke restoration issues.

At SERVPRO of Martin County we focus on restoring versus replacing because restoring the affected areas of your property is significantly less costly than demolishing and replacing those areas. This “restore first” mentality also allows us to get your home or business back to pre-fire condition quicker and with less disruption.

When we arrive to the restoration space first of all we run Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment to identify the area, follow by Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service, second we apply Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present), afterwards we remove smoke and soot from all surfaces, and finally we run Cleaning and Sanitizing process followed by Restoration.

When you contact SERVPRO of Martin County you can rest assured, knowing that we will take the best possible care of the situation, following all safety and sanitation guidelines. You know SERVPRO of Martin County as a leader in Fire and Smoke Restoration, but our expertise can also make any scenario "Like it never even happened."

Have questions about Fire and Smoke Restoration? Call SERVPRO of Martin County today – (772) 334-8762

Fire Emergency Procedures and tips

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Emergency Procedures and tips

Fire emergency is always overwhelming, nobody except firefighters or specialist in fire emergencies are really prepared to address inflame fire spreading quickly over certain area or inhale smoking residues for a long period of time.

When fire or smoke damage affect your home or business SERVPRO of Martin County have a general procedure before, during and after the fire emergency happens. Even though every situation is different the general process to address Fire emergency remain the same.

From our experience, here we recommend easy steps to follow before, during and after Fire emergency occurs.

What to do when a fire emergency happens and waiting for help to arrive?

We acknowledge your worries and anxiety of the moment, however we would like you to take few min to ask yourself if it’s safe to stay in the property, check out the area up and down and make sure you are in a safe point. Try out to be aware of electronic devices, as they might drop, putting in risk your safety.

How to procedure during a fire emergency?

Remember that some material and textures can conduct heat more easily, so stay away from them. Avoid also movement in the home or property to prevent smoke particles from being drive into carpets, curtains, upholstery and some others inflame fabrics.

It’s important that you and your family remains in a safe area as we recommend before and try out to keep your hands clean all the time, so it won’t conduct or make the worst materials such as walls, upholstery, and woodwork.

What to do after a fire emergency?

Added to the above mentioned we recommend: If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open, place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas. Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves and change HVAC filter

Finally, don’t effort to clean any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting SERVPRO!

Our staff is highly trained in fire damage emergency. When fire or smoke damage affect your home or business, follow us here: Fire Emergency Procedures and tips: https://www.SERVPROmartincounty.com/fire-damage-tips or contact SERVPRO specialist for all you fire emergency questions. Smoke or Fire Damage? Call SERVPRO of Martin County (772) 334-8762

Fire Emergency? What to do until help arrives?

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Emergency? What to do until help arrives?

What to do until help arrives!

Did you know …?

Every Fire Damage Emergency might be different but regularly the process to overcome the issue stay the same. At SERVPRO of Martin County we hope that your family and your business do not experience those difficult situations, however when this type of emergency arise, we have you covered with our Fire Damage Restoration Process.

No matter how worried you are about your house or business, to be in the safe place it is very important to ask yourself if it is not dangerous to stay in the property. If you do, be alert of electronic devices, they might drop putting your safety in risk. As you might know some supplies are better conductors of heat and can start the fire again, so pay special attention to those materials.

Second, try to avoid the movement in the place to prevent the smoke particles from being drive into upholstery and carpets as well touch the less possible and keep your hands clean so you do not transfer the oil and dirt from your hands, making it worst materials such as upholstery, walls, and woodwork. To protect the carpet from more damage we recommend putting some old linens or clean towels on carpet traffic areas.

Avoid consuming any food that have been in the place during the fire and keep the power off do not try to operate any electrical device at the place. And make sure that the electricity is completed off to avoid short circuits. We also recommend emptying your freezer and refrigerator, and keep doors open, do not consume any food that have been in the place during the fire, do not try to operate any electrical device at the place.

We also recommended when Fire Emergency and wondering what to do until help arrives! To wait for SERVPRO of Martin County so we do the cleaning, do not effort to clean walls, carpets or painted surfaces. Do not try to clean any electrical appliances that have been close to fire, water or heat.

SERVPRO of Martin County will be at the place as soon as possible. We attend emergencies of restoration the 24/7 no matter how big they are. In case of fire emergency the damages will be not just for fire, there will be water and smoke damage too.

Have Questions About Fire Emergency? And what to do until help arrives! Call SERVPRO of Martin County Today – (772) 334-8762 or visit our Blog online for more information: https://www.SERVPROmartincounty.com/blog

Fire and Smoke Restoration

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

Fire and Smoke Restoration

Fire damage and smoke are particularly big issues that can happens to your business or commercial property. Fire emergencies can have multiple causes and the effort and job that its demand such as significant amount of water from firefighting efforts and fire suppression system are some of the big efforts it’s needed to address such situations.

What happen when a Fire and Smoke Restoration is needed it?

To overcome Fire and Smoke, and try out to restore the business or property back to pre-fire condition, it’s important to have the experts number ready, so your business will be prepare for bigger losses and you will minimize the lost revenue and productivity.

How SERVPRO of Martin County runs Fire and Smoke Restoration?

Whether your fire emergency occurs in an office building, store, motel or restaurant, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion. Commercial Restoration brings unique challenges, however SERVPRO can run any Fire and Smoke Restoration the best way!

SERVPRO of Martin County has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies. Why? because we count with Fire and Smoke Restoration Technicians, Odor Control Technicians, Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technicians, Water Damage Restoration Technicians. They runs its services the best way and procedure in every project meticulously and professionally.

Commercial Fire Damage? Call SERVPRO of Martin County Today – (772) 334-8762

Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

1/8/2019 (Permalink)

Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

When various materials burn, the soot and residue they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. At SERVPRO of Martin County, we have Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment, Specialized in fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “usual” fire damage emergency:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

Step 7: Restoration

Fire damage can be devastating for you and your family. Feelings of confusion and stress are common, and you need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We always treat your family with the greatest empathy and respect, and we’ll treat your property with great care.

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first. Ask yourself if it’s safe to stay in the house, if not call SERVPRO of Martin County ASAP: (772) 334 8762

Fire Damage Restoration Services

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

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. When various materials burn, the soot and residue they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. Here the step by step to follow in case of any Fire Damage Restoration emergency:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

Step 7: Restoration

After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Martin County have the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

SERVPRO of Martin County specializes in Fire Damage Restoration Services. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (772) 334-8762

Basics about Fire and Smoke Clean Up process

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

Basics about Fire and Smoke Clean Up process

Each fire damage situation is different, and each one requires a personalized solution. When various materials burn, the smoke and residue they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts.

What does a fire restoration company do?

SERVPRO of Martin County, specializes in fire and water damage restoration. Company such us, have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

The phases listed below shows the Basics about Fire and Smoke Clean-up process for a typical fire damage restoration process:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

Step 7: Restoration

When your property is being affected by Fire and smoke, these damage can be specifically upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed, and vulnerable, but you have a caring expert to guide you through this crisis.

SERVPRO of Martin County is a company with more than 40 years of leadership in Fire and Smoke Clean Up and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon.

Looking for Basics about Fire and Smoke Clean-up process? Do not look further! SERVPRO of Martin County work really hard to give the best support and service, making this process as easier as possible for you and your family!

Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life with our Basics about Fire and Smoke Clean-up process and make it "Like it never even happened." To Learn more about our fire damage restoration process visit us: https://www.SERVPROmartincounty.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? - Call Us Today – (772) 334-8762

How to overcome fire and smoke interruptions

6/7/2018 (Permalink)

How to overcome fire and smoke interruptions

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, however the general process to overcome fire or smoke damages remains the same. When various materials burn, our provider applied the state of the art technique to address the issues.

Here is the basics steps SERVPRO apply after a fire, smoke, or soot damage occurred:

1. Emergency Contact: The restoration process begins with your call. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us reply immediately with the proper equipment and resources.

2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment: We carefully inspect and test connecting rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service: Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present): The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces: We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

6. Cleaning and Sanitizing: We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

7. Restoration: Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Once the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO have the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

SERVPRO understands the stress and worry that comes with a fire or smoke damage and the interruption it causes your life and home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the disturbance to your life with our Fire and Smoke Clean Up and quickly respond to it “Like it never even happened."

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call SERVPRO Today – (772) 334-8762

For a Thanksgiving Day and Holiday Season Free from Fire Damage

11/14/2017 (Permalink)

Pumpkins and a message saying happy thanksgiving

For a Thanksgiving Day and Holiday Season Free from Fire Damage

Holidays are just around the corner! And Thanksgiving especially are times for celebration, reflection, and spending time with those you love. However, accidents can happen and there is when you have to ensure your loved ones’ protection by implementing a fire safety plan during the holidays.

Keep these recommendations to avoid major disasters and by this way keep the safety of all your family in case of a House Fire Damage.

Many fires that can lead to fire damage inside a home are triggered by candles that drip hot wax or candle residue onto flammable coverings. Other sources of indoor fires can be caused by candles that are near other combustible materials such as:

Oil or potpourri
Decorative tissue paper
Wooden toys or holiday decorations
If you buy an artificial tree, make sure that it is fire resistant – not all trees are. Natural trees require regular watering, your tree should never feel dry to the touch, and this then becomes a major fire hazard.
If you have LED lights, a dry tree can go up in flames quickly. Make sure to keep your tree adequately watered. Do not take the risk.

Smoke detectors save lives by providing an early warning of a smoke or fire incident, but can do nothing to extinguish a growing fire. They also do little to protect those physically unable to escape on their own, such as the elderly or small children.

Increasingly, battery operated smoke detectors fail to function because the batteries are dead or have been removed. Although the percent of homes in America that were “protected” with smoke detectors increased from zero to more than 70%, the number of fire deaths in homes did not significantly decrease. A home needs more than just a set of functioning smoke detectors. Families’ need an escape plan, fire extinguishers, and in certain circumstances, even a sprinkler system to stay safe from and aware of any fire situations.

If you're hosting a holiday party, then your children and your guests’ children may tag along as well. Kids love to imitate adults, and they're quite curious; as a result, alcohol poisoning in children is common during the holiday season.

For a Thanksgiving Day and Holiday Season Free from Fire Damage just contact SERVPRO of Martin County. We are the first step you should take when addressing disaster strikes. We will help you to minimize your particular issue whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. SERVPRO of Martin County is a leader in water and fire damage response, and we will help you safely and efficiently get your residential or commercial property back in working order.

Establish a fire evacuation plan! Practice your fire escape plan with all your family members for a Thanksgiving Day and Holiday Season Free from Fire Damage!

Happy Holidays!

SERVPRO of Martin County (772) 334-8762

How to clean your Home after a fire?

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

Cleaning Your Home After a Fire

When the firefighters leave, you might want to start cleaning your home immediately. Unfortunately, you will notice that an extraordinary amount of ash and smoke are left behind that can begin to cause corrosion, discoloration, unpleasant odors, among other damages.

In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. This type of damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis.

If a professional isn’t hired to immediately clean up the smoke and fire damage, the costs for restoration will hit the roof after a few weeks. Metals may need to be replaced, carpet will permanently discolor, and glass may be severely engraved, needing replacement. Keep in mind that due to the acidic nature of the ash, the longer it takes to hire experts, the more destruction it will cause.

What to do after a fire?

Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
Change HVAC filter.
Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

“Do it yourself” techniques very rarely work to resolve issues of ash and smoke residue left behind after a fire. Inexperienced attempts at trying to complete such tasks could lead to further contamination and damage of your home and personal possessions. The best option is to reach out to a reliable fire restoration service with the licenses and certifications to complete such services in your area.

SERVPRO of Martin County is a company with more than 40 years of leadership in Fire and Smoke Clean up and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life with our Fire and Smoke Clean Up and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call SERVPRO of Martin County (772) 334-8762

FIRE HAZARDS TO CONSIDER ON THANKSGIVING

11/22/2016 (Permalink)

THANKSGIVING - FIRE HAZARDS

Holidays are here and none celebrates cooking more than Thanksgiving. Of all fires reported in the U.S. every year, 31% happen in residential homes. That’s due to a number of factors: open flames, negligence, cooking, and more. A key for preventing fire is understands common causes.

Here are some of the common causes of fire at home, please keep them in mind and prevent serious accidents during the holidays:

1. COOKING
House fires happen most during dinner hours, most likely between 5:00 and 8:00 p.m. That’s because people are cooking. If you’re preparing dinner, here’s what you should remember:

• For grease fires, only use a fire extinguisher (class B) or baking soda. Do not use water! It will spread the oil/grease and make your fire worse.
• Never leave your food unattended. Fires only need 30 seconds to go from a small flame to an out-of-control blaze, so even going to the bathroom could endanger your home.
• Turn off the stove and all appliances once you’re done cooking.
• Don’t wear baggy clothing. It could catch fire accidentally.
• Keep the grill at least 10 feet from vegetation and the house. Don’t ever leave a grill unattended. Fat dripping from oil or meat could cause a flare up that can quickly grow out of control. Also, remember to keep grills away from brush, your home, and overhanging branches.

2. HEATING EQUIPMENT
Almost 13% of all residential fires are caused by heating equipment. You can avoid heating equipment from catching fire by inspecting and cleaning wood-stoves and chimneys, using a fireplace screen, and having your hot water heater and furnace serviced regularly.

Space heaters can also cause fires if left too close to walls, drapes, and bedding. If you have a space heater, give it some room.

3. ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES
Electrical appliances cause over 6% of house fires. Look for worn wires, surge marks in wire, and damaged cords. If you see any exposed wires, unplug the electronic appliance and replace it immediately. Also, keep all cords away from furniture and rugs. Running cords under rugs is dangerous. We recommend never plug appliances into an extension cord or two-slot outlet and while on vacation you should unplug everything just in case.

Beauty tools like hair straighteners and curling irons get hot. If you forget to unplug them, they could start a fire. Always unplug your beauty products and leave them on a hard surface like a marble countertop and away from flammable objects.

You can decrease the chances of something malfunctioning and catching on fire by making sure it’s approved by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL). The UL has high safety standards, so you’ll know the appliance is well made.

4. CARELESSNESS
For house fires, negligence causes 5.8% of flashes. Carelessness includes leaving candles burning, not putting out cigarettes, putting heating equipment near combustible items, and more. Fire is dangerous. Never treat anything hot or on fire with anything but the utmost care.

5. SMOKING
About 2% of fires are caused by cigarettes. One way you can prevent fires from cigarettes is to stop smoking them! Another is to do so outdoors and put your spent cigarette butts into water. Wildfires and those caused by lightning are unavoidable.

6. OTHER POTENTIAL FIRE HAZARDS TO CONSIDER
Most Christmas Trees fires start because of faulty lights or proximity to a heat source. Christmas tree fires are normally pretty serious too. On average, one out of 31 Christmas tree fires kills someone. Prevent this from happening by putting new lights on your Christmas tree, inspecting older lights, and keeping them away from heat sources.

Between 2007 and 2011, nearly 50,000 fires were started by people playing with fire. Of those, 43% were started by children under six years old and 38% of outdoor fires were caused by children aged 10. Keep matches away from kids, teach them about fire safety, and never leave them unattended with flammable objects.

Don’t’ forget to clean your vents and filters! They can get gunked up with lint, hair, dust, and other flammable residue that can catch fire.

If you are experiencing any fire or smoke damage at your work place or at home during the holidays do not hesitate to contact SERVPRO, our technicians will treat your family with empathy and your home with great care. (772) 334-8762

SERVPRO wish you a “Happy Thanksgiving as its a time to be grateful and to think about all the special people who have touched our lives”

Fire Emergency? What to do until help arrives

10/6/2016 (Permalink)

Fire Emergency. What to do?

A fire can leave behind soot, smoke damage and a host of other problems. Ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need a thorough professional cleaning. If your home or business suffers a fire, it is important to take the appropriate steps to prevent further damage until your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals arrive. The following tips may help reduce damage and increase chances of a successful restoration.

Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffi c areas.
If electricity is off, empty freezer/refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
Wipe soot from chrome kitchen/bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of
lubricant.
If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes
and fi xtures.
Change HVAC fi lters; leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON’T

Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without fi rst contacting your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional.
Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without fi rst consulting your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional.
Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fi re, heat or water without fi rst consulting an authorized repair service.
Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fi re, heat or water, as they may be contaminated.
If ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fans. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

Call the Cleanup Team that's faster to any disaster

10/5/2016 (Permalink)

Fire Emergency

October is Fire Prevention Month— a perfect time to examine emergency preparedness plans for your home and business, including your fire escape plan. Do you have a fire escape plan? Have you changed your smoke alarm batteries within the last year?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) designates a week each October to focus on fire prevention awareness.
The 2016 theme is “Don’t Wait—Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years,” designed to educate the public on the basic but essential elements of smoke
alarm safety. The NFPA recommends installing smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and
on every level of your home, including the basement. Did you know that roughly half of home fire deaths result from fires
reported between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., when most people are asleep?* Smoke alarms save lives. In fact, having a working
smoke alarm cuts the chances of dying in a reported fire in half!

Stay safe and prepare now to ensure you are ready for any disaster by having a family emergency plan and by having SERVPRO of Martin County handy 772-334-8762

Visit us also on Facebook, Twitter and Google+ to be up to date with any relevant information regarding Fire Safesty Tips.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROMartinCounty/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SERVPROMartinCo
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/1/+SERVPROmartincounty

What to do until help arrives

7/26/2016 (Permalink)

What to do until help arrives

A fire can leave behind soot, smoke damage and a host of other problems. Ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need a thorough professional cleaning. If your home or business suffers a fire, it is important to take the appropriate steps to prevent further damage until SERVPRO of Martin County arrives. The following tips may help reduce damage and increase chances of a successful restoration.

Do:

Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
Keep hands clean. Soot particles on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
If electricity is off, empty freezer/refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
Wipe soot from chrome kitchen/bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, the protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
Change HVAC filters; leave the system off until a trained professional can check the system.
Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

Don't:

Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO® of Martin County.
Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO® of Martin County.
Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water, as they may be contaminated.
If the ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fans. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

Mitigating fire damage

6/24/2016 (Permalink)

Mitigating fire damage

A home or business fire can be a very stressful event for the property owner. Damage to personal belongings and the contents of the building is just one concern. Timely mitigation is the key to controlling damage, while reducing downtime and recovery costs.

SERVPRO® of Martin County understands how disruptive fires can be for business owners, their tenants and even their customers. That is why SERVPRO® of Martin County offers 24-hour emergency response.

SERVPRO’s Service Response Guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. Under normal circumstances, a SERVPRO® of Martin County will be on-site of a fire damage within four hours to begin emergency mitigation services.

The rapid response and the training of SERVPRO® of Martin County will help limit damage and get your facility back in operation quickly and help make it, "Like it never even happened."

Choosing the Proper Fire Extinguisher for Your Needs

3/31/2016 (Permalink)

Choosing the Proper Fire Extinguisher for Your Needs

Did you know…?

A fire extinguishers is one of the most commonly supplies used for fire protection. These represents a first line of defense to extinguish a fire, stopping higher cost damages. However these devices are often ignored and not being replaced properly.

The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) recommends individuals are properly trained in order to use and maintain an extinguisher. USFA says an extinguisher should only be used if:

You have alerted other occupants and someone has called the fire department;
The fire is small and contained to a single object, such as a wastebasket;
You are safe from the toxic smoke produced by the fire;
You have a means of escape identified and the fire is not between you and the escape route; and
Your instincts tell you that it is safe to use an extinguisher.

Information provided by U.S. Fire Administration*

Do you know how to recognize the Classes of Extinguishers?

Evert fire scenario is different, and so do the extinguishers, learn about the different classes of extinguishers and where to use it accordingly with the type of fire to extinguish:

Class A: For use with fires relating to ordinary combustible like plastics and others materials such as cloth, wood, rubber and paper.

Class B: Used on fires concerning flammable liquids, such as oil, grease, gasoline, among others.

Class C: Suitable for use on fires involving appliances, tools, or other equipment that is electrically energized or plugged in.

Class D: For use on flammable metals and are often specific for the type of metal in question. These are typically found only in factories working with these metals.

Class K: For use on fires involving vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. These extinguishers are generally found in commercial kitchens but are becoming more popular in the residential market.

Keeping in mind the different types of extinguishers, make it easy to use it. However at the moment of using it, try to remember the acronym PASS, as it will give you the key to overcome the issue such as: Pull the safety pin - Aim the extinguisher at the source of the flame - Squeeze the handle or the trigger - Sweep the extinguisher until the fire goes out.

Devices can be a key component towards keeping you safe during a fire emergency situation. When Fire Emergency arise call SERVPRO of Martin County. We’re Fire and Water Damage Specialists with the training and experience ready to assist you with the restoration process.

We have the knowledge and the specialized equipment to get your property back to pre-fire condition. Have Questions about Fire extinguishers, Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – (772) 334-8762

Home Fire Preparedness Campaign in Indiantown

2/3/2016 (Permalink)

Home Fire Preparedness Campaign - SERVPRO of Saint Lucie and Martin county

SERVPRO of Saint Lucie and Martin county was a proud volunteer for the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign in Indiantown with the American Red cross on January 9th 2016.

Indianwood Community Red Cross volunteers teamed up with community partners to install 108 smoke alarms free of charge to residents. The initiative aims to reduce the number of deaths and injuries caused by home fires by as much as 25% over the next several years.

Stay Safe on Independence Day

6/25/2015 (Permalink)

Stay Safe on Independence Day

Did you know, more fires are reported on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year in the United States? Nearly half of those fires are caused by fireworks.

Fireworks are an essential part of celebrating the Fourth, but they also pose a serious safety threat if used improperly. You may find these recent statistics* surprising:

- Fireworks caused an estimated 18,000 reported fires.

- $38 million in property damage.

- U.S. emergency rooms treated an estimated 8,800 people for fireworks related injuries.

Celebrate safely by practicing the next tips:

Firework Safety Tips

Tips provided by The National Council on Fireworks Safety

- Only use fireworks outdoors.

- Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.

- Never give fireworks to young children.

- Always have water handy or easily accessible.

- Only use fireworks as intended.

- Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.

- Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses.

- Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a "designated shooter."

If a fire, water or mold damage strikes, no matter the size, call SERVPRO® of Martin County. Backed by a System of Franchises more than 1,600 strong, we’ll help make your property disaster “Like it never even happened.”

The Behavior of Smoke

5/27/2015 (Permalink)

The Behavior of Smoke

SERVPRO® Martin County know smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. Here are some facts you may not know about smoke:

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.

The 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, a SERVPRO® Martin County 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.

-Fuel Oil Soot – Furnace Puff Backs

While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO® Martin County can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.

-Other Types – Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue

Special loss situations require special care. SERVPRO® Martin County are trained to handle even the toughest losses.

First 24 Hours After a Fire

2/24/2015 (Permalink)

First 24 Hours After a Fire

The first 24 hours after fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO’s 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines* can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems.

Under normal circumstances, within one hour from notice of a loss, a SERVPRO® of Martin County will contact you to arrange for service. Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO® of Martin County will be on-site to begin mitigation services. Finally, within eight business hours, a verbal job briefing will be communicated to the appropriate person.

SERVPRO® of Martin County provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. These services help ensure your property and belongings are restored to preloss condition when possible.

SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help you make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why Take the Risk? Call SERVPRO of Martin County (772) 334-8762

Tips for Preventing Holiday Fires

12/23/2014 (Permalink)

Tips for Preventing Holiday Fires

Statistics highlight the need for preparation and caution in holiday decorating and entertaining

The approaching holiday season brings traditions, parties, shopping, entertaining – and potential danger, according to the restoration specialists at SERVPRO.

The latest statistics available from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) show the holidays are a high-risk time for home fires. Christmas trees are responsible for 240 home fires each year, and other holiday decorations are the cause of another 1,170 fires1. Thanksgiving Day sees almost a threefold increase in cooking-related fires; cooking fires are almost twice as likely to happen on Christmas Day as on non-holidays2.

“No one wants to think about the possibility of losing their home, and even more tragically, lives because of a fire during the holidays,” said Rick Isaacson, Executive Vice President of SERVPRO Industries, Inc. “But statistics show, it’s important to be aware of the increased risk seasonal decorating, entertaining and cooking can cause during the holidays.”

Isaacson reminds homeowners that prevention and common sense can help keep homes and families safe during the holidays and throughout the year. Here are some sobering facts about holiday fires and tips to help keep your home, friends and family safe throughout the holiday season.

Christmas Tree Fire Facts

33% of tree fires are caused by electrical problems; 13% involve decorative lights.Check wiring on lights for breaks and wear. Replace worn strings and don’t exceed manufacturer guidelines for connecting multiple strands of lights. Don’t leave tree lights plugged in when you are away from home or when you go to bed.

42% occur on the 12 days from December 23 through January 3. Keep live trees well watered to reduce the chance of a fire.

Holiday Decoration Fire Facts

45% of all holiday fires involve candles; that number rises to 56% in December. Use flameless candles. If you do use traditional candles, burn them in sturdy candleholders, well away from drapes and other flammable materials, and never leave them unattended or allow them to burn down to less than one inch in length.

48% of all decoration fires start because the decoration is too close to a heat source.Keep all decorations away from heat sources like radiators, portable heaters, fireplaces, etc.

Cooking Fire Facts

Cooking fires on Thanksgiving Day exceed the daily average by 272%. Supervise items on the stovetop. 58% of kitchen fires involve ranges; homes with electric cooktops have a higher risk of fire than homes with gas cooktops.

Cooking fires on Christmas Day and Christmas Eve exceed the daily average by 96% and 89% respectively. Keep flammable items – potholders, packaging, wrapping, wooden utensils, loose clothing – away from the stovetop. And, don’t let lack of sleep or alcohol consumption affect your ability to concentrate on preparing the meal.

“It only takes a moment’s distraction or carelessness to turn a holiday celebration into a catastrophe,” said Isaacson. “We hope these tips will be a reminder to families everywhere to make fire prevention a priority in their holiday preparations, so they can spend the season enjoying family and friends, not dealing with the aftermath of a fire.”

For more fire prevention tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit www.SERVPROmartincounty.com

About SERVPRO

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Martin County is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,600 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Recipe for Cooking Safety in Thanksgiving

11/26/2014 (Permalink)

Recipe for Cooking Safety in Thanksgiving

Do you know Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment?

Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your happy holiday could become hazardous very quickly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking is the main cause for home fires and injuries, with Thanksgiving being the peak day for cooking related fires. Review the following safety tips to help ensure you enjoy a safe holiday.

Do not wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.

Never leave cooking food unattended–stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If someone must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, they should turn off the stove.

Check food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking. Use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on.

Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.

Keep anything flammable–potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from the stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.

Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease build-up.

Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen. Contact the local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.

Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.

Why Take the Risk? Call a SERVPRO® of Martin County. Working to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Home Emergency Tips for Fire & Smoke Damage

6/10/2014 (Permalink)

Fire Damage

What to do after fire:

Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being imbedded into upholstery and carpets.
Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
Blow or brush vacuum loose soot particles from upholstery, drapes and carpets.
Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
lf electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open.
Clean and protect chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances with light coating of Vaseline or oil.
Wash house plants on both sides of leaves.
Change HVAC filter.
Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What not to do after fire:

Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Professional.
Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Professional.
Attempt to clean any electrical appliances, TV sets, radios, etc. that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
Use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged.
Send garments to ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Do you have a Fire and Smoke Restoration plan?

4/10/2014 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire damage, fire out of control

Fire and Smoke Restoration

Did you know…. there are products of such scenes usually classified as bio - hazardous materials, and they require special handling that ordinary people are generally not knowledgeable in? When having questions such as, having a Fire and Smoke Restoration plan ahead will help you to understand many issues related to a fire scenes and most importantly how to react and address Fire and Smoke restoration issues.

When you contact SERVPRO of Martin County you can rest assured, knowing that we will take the best possible care of the situation, following all safety and sanitation guidelines. You know SERVPRO as a leader in Fire and Smoke Restoration, but our expertise can also make any scenario "Like it never even happened."

Have questions about Fire and Smoke Restoration? Call SERVPRO of Martin County today – (772) 334-8762

Fire and Smoke Clean Up in Martin County

2/10/2014 (Permalink)

Fire and Smoke Clean Up in Martin County

SERVPRO® of Martin and Saint Lucie County understands the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your life and home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life with our Fire and Smoke Clean Up Martin County and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO® of Martin and Saint Lucie County specializes in Fire and Smoke Clean Up Martin County and other cities of Martin County and Saint Lucie County. We are also experts in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage. SERVPRO® of Martin County can also mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored to the specific conditions. When various materials burn, the soot and residue they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

Emergency Contact
Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
Cleaning and Repair
Restoration

If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (772) 334-8762

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Do:

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Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?Call Us Today – (772) 334-8762

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