Fire Safety for Businesses: Protecting Your Property

1/26/2024 (Permalink)

Fire prevention is important

Fires are an important threat to companies, and the consequences can be disastrous. From economic damage to the potential loss of people's lives, businesses must develop efficient fire prevention procedures. In this article, we'll look at useful recommendations for businesses, covering fire prevention techniques, emergency response plans, and the importance of expert restoration services.

Understanding the most common causes of company accidents is the first step toward prevention. Electrical problems, heating and cooking equipment, combustible materials, and human error are frequently the cause of such events. Businesses may modify their fire security techniques according to the risks they notice.

Easy Fire Prevention Tips:

• Electrical safety requires regular maintenance. Ensure that all equipment is utilized appropriately and that any defective wiring is fixed promptly.
• For optimal building safety, consider purchasing fire-resistant materials and designs. To make your home safer, upgrade your insulation and roofing, and add fire-rated doors and windows.
• Properly keeping and handling combustible items is essential. Implement safe storage methods, train employees on handling dangerous substances, and keep flammable objects away from potential ignition sources.
• Establish designated smoking places away from flammable objects. To minimize the chance of accidents, discourage smoking around possible risks of fire.

Emergency Readiness: Planning and Action Strategies

• Establishing and communicating proper evacuation procedures is essential for ensuring safety and property. Regular employee training drills are essential for increasing knowledge of processes, and exit routes must be well-marked and easily accessible. This preemptive approach enables a timely and orderly response during an emergency.
• A reliable fire detection system is essential for effective emergency response. Installation and frequent maintenance of smoke detectors and alarms are critical. Consistent testing ensures their functionality in crucial situations, providing early warnings required for effective emergency response and evacuation.
• Plan for effective communication amid disasters. Develop a comprehensive communication plan that includes emergency contact information as well as communication tools. Ensuring that everyone is informed and on the same page may significantly enhance emergency coordination, leading to a safer and more effective response.

Getting Back on Track with Restoration Services:

1. Acting Promptly

The aftermath of a fire requires rapid treatment. Acting quickly is crucial for preventing additional harm and starting the repair procedure. A timely assessment of the degree of the damage is required to establish a complete repair plan. This prompt response not only helps to save precious assets but also plays an important part in reducing downtime for your organization.

2. Collaborating with Professional Restoration Services:

Professional restoration services are essential for a successful recovery. These experts bring a plethora of knowledge and experience to the table, resulting in a quick and effective cleansing and restoration procedure. From assessing structural damage to adopting effective recovery plans, their knowledge accelerates the restoration process, allowing your firm to resume normal operations as soon as feasible.

3. Insurance Collaboration:

After a fire, navigating the aftermath can be financially tough. Working with your insurance provider can help relieve these pressures. Working closely with your insurance to document damage for claims is critical. Ensure that your insurance coverage includes restoration services since this not only protects your financial interests but also allows for a more efficient and comprehensive recovery process. A well-documented and collaborative strategy between restoration providers and your insurance carrier is critical to ensuring a successful repair outcome for your company.

Continue Researching and Stay Safe:

1. Employee Fire Safety Instruction: A strong fire safety program starts with regular training for employees. Regular fire drills guarantee that personnel are not only aware of but also well-versed in evacuation methods. These drills increase familiarity, minimizing terror during genuine situations. Furthermore, offering continual education tools is critical to keeping everyone up to date on the most recent safety procedures. Continuous learning ensures that your staff is proactive in preventing and responding to fire incidents, resulting in a safer workplace.
2. Creating a Safety Culture: Safety is more than simply a set of laws; it should get into all elements of your business. Recognizing and cheering safe behavior in employees develops a sense of responsibility and ownership. Positive reinforcement motivates employees to actively contribute to workplace safety. Businesses foster a culture of safety in which everyone feels empowered to disclose and handle possible dangers, resulting in a collective commitment to maintaining a secure and protected environment.

3. Follow Local Regulations: Following local fire safety rules is essential for prudent business management, in addition to being a legal necessity. Regularly updating fire safety measures based on code changes is critical to being compliant and, more importantly, improving the safety of your property. Collaborating with local fire departments for compliance checks ensures that your company not only meets the required standards but also receives professional views and guidance. Businesses that are proactive in following local standards contribute to the general safety and well-being of their employees and customers.

Finally, protecting your business from fire involves a combination of proactive steps, preparation, and expert teamwork. Businesses that follow these fire protection techniques can considerably lower the probability of fire incidents and mitigate the possible damage to their property and personnel. Remember that a minor investment in preventive today might save your company from big losses later. Stay safe, and prepared, and preserve what's most important.

Remember the importance of prompt restoration when protecting your business from fire hazards. At SERVPRO, we provide exceptional fire damage restoration services that provide more than simply solutions; we also provide peace of mind and a secure commercial area. Call SERVPRO at (480) 503-2090 for emergency assistance, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Invest in the security of your business with us.

The Silent Threat: Understanding Smoke Damage in Homes

1/22/2024 (Permalink)

Smoke damage in your home

Not only do the flames leave a mark after a fire, but so do other elements. The stealthy threat of smoke damage stays like a shadow, silently corroding the soul of home. Understanding this sneaky intruder is beyond merely knowledge; it is essential for sustaining the place of safety we call home.

1. What frequently takes center stage in the aftermath of a fire, leaving a less obvious but equally dangerous threat lurking beneath the surface?

The aftermath of a fire is typically marked by visible destruction, but the often-overlooked threat of smoke harm quietly affects homes in ways that are not immediately noticeable. Aside from the obvious coloring and aromas, smoke residue infiltrates every nook and cranny, lowering indoor air quality and permeating materials. This invisible threat may pose long-term health consequences, such as breathing troubles and discomfort. Recognizing the numerous nuances of smoke damage is critical for a thorough restoration approach that extends beyond surface removal. Immediate action is required to alleviate not only obvious damage but also hidden, lingering dangers that can endanger a home's security and well-being.

2. What is smoke damage, and how does it distinguish from being just the consequence of a fire?

Smoke damage is a convoluted combination of soot, ash, and toxic substances. Its insidious character stems from its tendency to enter and attach to surfaces, leading to discoloration and persistent scents throughout the home.

3. How does smoke damage vary, and what role do different materials play in its severity?

Smoke damage varies depending on the type of smoke and the materials used:

Wet smoke is a result of sluggish burning with high water content.

• Dense and sticky, leaving greasy residues.
• Results in severe and difficult-to-clean damage.

Dry smoke results from quick burning with minimal water content.

• Lighter and thinner, penetrates surfaces deeper.
• Initially appears to be easy to clean, but can cause severe harm.

The Role of Materials in Damage Severity:

• The intensity of smoke damage is closely related to the type of material used.
• Synthetic materials, polymers, and chemicals emit dense smoke, causing further harm.
• Surface hardness and porosity influence smoke particle absorption and retention.

4. What are the immediate implications of inhaling smoke residues?

Inhaling smoke remnants causes more than merely apparent harm and poses serious risks to one's health. The invisible particles in the air during a fire may contain toxins and cancer-causing agents, causing respiratory problems, eye discomfort, and long-term health risks. Recognizing these threats is critical for timely intervention and comprehensive restoration efforts. Acting quickly not only preserves immediate health, but it also reduces the risk of adverse health effects caused by exposure to toxic smoke residues.

5. How can smoke damage influence the underlying structure of a house?

Smoke damage can threaten a home's structural integrity, posing a risk to both health and infrastructure. The invisible residue gradually infiltrates construction materials, weakening essential components. This balance necessitates an in-depth investigation and quick intervention to ensure the security of residents and the longevity of the home's structure. Furthermore, the continuous existence of smoke residue may result in leftovers odors, emphasizing the vital need for complete restoration. This not only prioritizes health, but also provides a pleasant place to live free of the long-term effects of smoke harm.

In the aftermath of a fire, a comprehensive understanding of the consequences of smoke damage is essential to effective mitigation. Beyond the visible damage, the silent threat infiltrates homes, affecting air quality and the strength of structures. Distinguishing smoke damage from fire aftermath reveals its detailed the structure of soot, ash, and toxic substances, which has a long-lasting influence.

Variations in smoke damage, caused by smoke type and substance, emphasize the distinguishing features of wet and dry smoke. Material choices increase the impact, with synthetics creating dense smoke and surface properties influencing particle retention. The inhalation of smoke remains causes health concerns, highlighting the importance of prompt identification and intervention.

Smoke damage not only threatens a home's construction but also produces persistent scents, underscoring the importance of comprehensive restoration. Swift, comprehensive action is essential to address both visible and hidden hazards, protecting properties from the long-term impacts of smoke damage.

To summarize, proactive understanding and early intervention are critical in navigating the aftermath of a fire. To protect our houses' safety and well-being, restoration operations should address not only visible damage but also the hidden complications of smoke damage. If damage has already occurred, call (480) 503-2090 for prompt and effective restoration, limiting the extent of the damage and preventing long-term problems like mold growth. Taking this proactive approach to recovering your house ensures that it regains its pleasant nature efficiently and successfully.

Handling Smoke Odors After a House Fire

8/29/2023 (Permalink)

Home fires leave behind destruction that has to be dealt with, often on various levels. One of the most challenging results of fire damage is the odor that stays stubbornly behind, which few people plan to deal with after a house fire. Eliminating these odors requires knowledge and specific deodorization equipment. That’s where SERVPRO of East Phoenix can help! Learn how we can assist with odor removal after you experience a house fire.

Smoke odor removal

After a fire in your home, SERVPRO specialists can help you throughout the fire restoration process, including assistance with odor removal. With many years of experience in fire remediation, we understand how trying it can be when this type of tragedy occurs and how difficult it can be to recover and get back to normal. Our technicians can restore your home to pre-fire condition quickly and efficiently to make it livable again after a house fire, especially when dealing with unexpected smoky odor aftermath. Effective fire damage deodorization requires using different techniques. SERVPRO fire remediation specialists can usually get rid of unpleasant smells without needing additional steps.

When it comes to deodorization, the first step is removing the source causing the odor. The second step is getting rid of any residues in the area. After cleaning, SERVPRO technicians follow up by air “scrubbing” or ventilating to get rid of odor molecules from the house to get rid of the odors.

Containing odors from a fire

Chemical containment is important in fire damage deodorization to prevent odor molecules from remaining in the air after a house fire. This requires decontaminating materials with a chemical deodorizer, which forms a barrier that keeps the odor molecules from escaping from the source material, thus reducing the smell. Our experienced technicians then neutralize any odor particles that may have dissipated into the air by applying deodorant products into the surrounding air of the affected area. These products neutralize the overpowering smells. This process is a part of SERVPRO’s tried and true fire remediation process, so we’re confident we can successfully address odor issues in your home after a blaze and make your home enjoyable to live in once again.

Get rid of odors quickly

House fires are traumatizing. Knowing who to reach out to for fire remediation efforts, including unplanned odor removal, can make the experience less painful, and recovery faster. We can help you eliminate odors that are a result of a fire in your home. SERVPRO of East Phoenix can come in and begin the fire restoration process immediately so don’t hesitate to call; we’re available 24/7 to help. To get help after a house fire, call us at (602) 507-6163.

Dealing with Smoke Odors After a House Fire

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

Home fires leave behind destruction that has to be dealt with, often on various levels. One of the most challenging results of fire damage is the odor that stays stubbornly behind, which few people plan to deal with after a house fire. Eliminating these odors requires knowledge and specific deodorization equipment. That’s where SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can help! Learn how we can assist with odor removal after you experienced a house fire.

Smoke odor removal

After a fire in your home, SERVPRO specialists can help you throughout the fire restoration process, including assistance with odor removal. With many years of experience in fire remediation, we understand how trying it can be when this type of tragedy occurs and how difficult it can be to recover and get back to normal. Our technicians can restore your home to pre-fire condition quickly and efficiently to make it livable again after a house fire, especially when dealing with unexpected smoky odor aftermath. Effective fire damage deodorization requires using different techniques. SERVPRO fire remediation specialists can usually get rid of the unpleasant smells without needing additional steps.

When it comes to deodorization, the first step is removing the source causing the odor. The second step is getting rid of any residues in the area. After cleaning, SERVPRO technicians follow up by air “scrubbing” or ventilating to get rid of odor molecules from the house to get rid of the odors.

Containing odors from a fire

Chemical containment is important in fire damage deodorization to prevent odor molecules from remaining in the air after a house fire. This requires decontaminating materials with a chemical deodorizer, which forms a barrier that keeps the odor molecules from escaping from the source material, thus reducing the smell. Our experienced technicians then neutralize any odor particles that may have dissipated into the air by applying deodorant products into the surrounding air of the affected area. These products neutralize the overpowering smells. This process is a part of SERVPRO’s tried and true fire remediation process, so we’re confident we can successfully address odor issues in your home after a blaze and make your home enjoyable to live in once again.

Get rid of odors fast

House fires are traumatizing. Knowing who to reach out to for fire remediation efforts, including unplanned odor removal, can make the experience less painful, and recovery faster. We can help you eliminate odors that are a result of a fire in your home. SERVPRO of Central Phoenix can come in and begin the fire restoration process immediately so don’t hesitate to call; we’re available 24/7 to help. To get help after a house fire, call us at (602) 386-4268.

Removing Soot After a House Fire Takes Professional Help

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

The damage resulting from a home fire can be significant and cleanup feels insurmountable. Not only can you experience fire damage on your walls and ceilings, but you may also suffer from extensive soot damage, which can be exceedingly difficult to clean up. Here are a few tips on addressing soot after you experience a fire in your home.

What is soot?

Soot, sometimes called “carbon black,” is a fine black powder that can be a bit sticky and is a product of incomplete combustion. It leaves an ugly film on everything, as well as a foul smell. During a fire, soot spreads throughout the whole house, affixing to surfaces. The acidic properties of soot can damage your home if it’s not removed immediately. The pros at SERVPRO know how to do just that!

Do all fires create soot?

Most of the materials used for the construction of your home could catch fire which can help it spread throughout the structure rapidly. Unfortunately, this can spread the effects of this blaze all throughout your property, which means you will experience some level of soot in your home after a fire, regardless of size. While you might be enticed to simply clean up the soot on your own, cleanup is best left to the professionals, as it can be more difficult to completely clean than you might assume. Sometimes trying to clean it can create an even bigger mess if not done correctly. Better to call in the pros.

When to call in fire remediation specialists for soot removal

Most often the effects that stand out from a house fire of any kind are smoke and soot damage. These are common during fire damage in homes, and they can often prove to be challenging to remove without the right equipment. Fortunately, our SERVPRO professionals have the tools and expertise to help you through often widespread soot damages throughout your household. While the most concentrated of this effect can get found around the fire originating point where it burned the longest, this is not always the case. The debris and film from the fire leave a black residue on surfaces, furniture, flooring, and other materials. That is soot. Unless the fire didn’t spread at all and was quickly extinguished, it’s time to call fire clean-up specialists, or those skilled in fire damage remediation, to help with clean-up.

How is soot removed from your home? 

Removing soot residue requires several methodologies. For wall surfaces, scrubbing with wet and dry sponges can often remove the bulk of the present film but not all of it. Enclosed spaces like ductwork require high powered vacuums be utilized instead. SERVPRO of Phoenix can assist in cleaning ductwork. Smoke damage often presents itself in the form of a harsh odor lingering in fabrics, carpeting, and open spaces throughout affected areas of your house. Removal of this odor typically requires thermal fogging to break apart odor molecules and leave no detectable smell behind. Depending on the extent of soot damage found in the home, our highly trained technicians will know exactly what to do to address the soot throughout your home.

SERVPRO of East Phoenix can help with soot removal

If you experience a fire in your home, it is a good idea to contact SERVPRO of East Phoenix to help with all your fire damage remediation needs, including removing soot. We can be reached 24/7 at 480-507-6163. Let us help restore your home to pre-fire condition. Contact us when you need help removing unsightly soot!

What Happens After a Home Fire and Tips to Help You Recover?

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Fires cause damages that are too challenging for homeowners to address on their own safely. With a rapid response from trained professionals like SERVPRO, we can offer effective mitigation solutions that can not only reduce the time restoration takes to complete but also reduces your out-of-pocket expenses. As a full-service company, we can offer effective mitigation, reconstruction, and restoration, ensuring that all phases of fire recovery happen immediately following the last through the completion of the project. Learn what to do after a fire and to recover more quickly.

Challenges after a fire

One of the most challenging aspects of fire damage restoration for many homeowners is the red tape of getting a fire damage claim approved through their insurance provider. Our SERVPRO team can also help in this regard, as we are preferred restoration specialists for many of the insurance companies throughout our area and have worked closely with all local and major insurance companies to help our customers get the restoration and mitigation work their properties require. While we can’t handle the claim on your behalf, working with us could help ease the process a bit. It is often recommended to reach out to our SERVPRO professionals even before you speak to your insurance provider about filing a damage claim. Our can arrive quickly, 24-hours a day, to begin a thorough inspection and assessment of your damaged property so you have strong documentation of all the damage involved, which the insurance company will require. By recording both damages and loss, as well as taking photographs as evidence of the damage caused by the fire, our team can provide you the information you need for your insurance company with the documentation required to approve a damage claim you file.

SERVPRO can start the mitigation process

In addition to helping the claim to get more quickly approved by having thorough documentation provided to you, we can begin mitigation work in your home immediately with our initial arrival. This approach ensures that you and your property don’t have to wait for mitigation that can protect contents and unaffected areas of your home that could become damaged in the time after extinguishment. Initial fire damage is bad enough but left unattended for a long period of time, damage can get worse. Water and chemicals from firefighters can continue to damage the contents of your home, and odors can grow if not addressed. Soot will find its way into every nook and cranny of your home. These are why immediate mitigation is a must!

SERVPRO is here to help when you experience a fire

Many steps are necessary to restore your home after a fire, but with the right help from qualified professionals like our SERVPRO of East Phoenix team, things can happen much more quickly. If you want to make fire damages “Like it never even happened.” give our rapid response team a call 24/7 at (602) 507-6163.

Small House Fires Can Bring Big Hassles

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

There really is no such thing as a minor house fire, is there? Any time a fire ignites inside a home, many things inside can get damaged. Even if the amount of items that get burned is minor, significant fire loss can still occur. Even the smallest burns can force your property to suffer a fire loss, including soot, smoke, and odors.

Smoke damage in your home
 

When anything burns, some substances are released into the air, even if the item doesn’t completely burn, or does so for only a brief period of time. Particles that do not combust entirely and get released into a building can cause smoke damage to your home even if the blaze is small. Smoke can quickly spread throughout your home. When smoke comes into contact with cooler surfaces, the partially combusted particles can transform back into a solid form. Once this happens, soot residue and other soils can appear visible on the surfaces of your walls and other building materials as well as the contents that are present inside your house. The result can be quite messy! SERVPRO of East Phoenix technicians are IICRC certified and experienced in dealing with smoke and fire damage situations. We know that even a small burn that takes place inside your kitchen can cause damage. We are trained at finding even the most imperceptible damage that could cause you problems in the future.

Odors caused by fires
 

Smoke not only causes residues to exist on the surface of items inside your home, but it can also penetrate materials and cause unpleasant aromas to exist. Smoke can seep deep into porous materials and cause them to put out unpleasant smells into your house's airflow system. Our crews at SERVPRO can utilize certain methods and chemicals that will help extinguish such foul odors long after the flames are gone.

Soot residue after a fire

Soot residue can be one of the most frustrating situations to deal with after a fire. Even if the flame was small and the fire was extinguished quickly, depending on the materials, a substantial amount of soot damage can remain behind. If not handled correctly, trying to clean up soot can cause more of a mess than the soot itself! Our fire remediation specialists are trained to deal with soot residue and ensure every last trace of it is gone by the time we leave.

If you ever have a problem after a small house fire, call SERVPRO of East Phoenix at (602) 507-6163 any time of the day or night. We know how to deal with smoked damage, odor removal and soot cleanup to get your home back to the way it was prior to your house fire.

Few Homeowners Plan on Odors After Experiencing a House Fire

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Fires leave behind damage on multiple fronts when they occur in a home. First is the damage of items singed or burned. Then there is the residual soot after the fire has stopped burning. Last, there’s the mess left by firefighter efforts to extinguish the flames, leaving behind water and chemicals used to put out the fire. One of the most frustrating aftermath of fire damage is the odor that lingers behind, which few homeowners plan on after experiencing the trauma of a house fire. Finding the source of these odors and then eliminating them requires knowledge and specific deodorization equipment. That’s where SERVPRO of East Phoenix comes in!

Fire damage deodorization

If you experience fire damage in your home, our team of experts can support you throughout the fire restoration process. With years of experience in fire remediation, we understand how distressing it can be when this type of tragedy occurs. Following IICRC guidelines, our technicians can restore your home to preloss condition quickly and efficiently to make it habitable again after a house fire. Effective fire damage deodorization requires using a combination of different techniques. SERVPRO fire damage restorers can typically get rid of the offensive smells without needing additional steps. Odor removal does not equal odor control. When it comes to deodorization, the first step is removing the source causing the odor. The second step is getting rid of any residues in the area. After cleaning, SERVPRO technicians follow up by air scrubbing or ventilating to get rid of odor molecules from the house.

Chemical containment process

Chemical containment is important in fire damage deodorization to prevent odor molecules from vaporizing into the air after a house fire. This phase involves decontaminating odor-causing materials with a chemical deodorizer, which forms a barrier that keeps the odor molecules from escaping from the source material. To complete the process, our technicians neutralize any odor particles that may have vaporized into the air by applying advanced deodorant products into the surrounding air. The vapors from these products counteract the pungent smells they come across. This process is a part of SERVPRO’s tried and true fire remediation process, so we’re confident we can successfully address odor issues in your home after a blaze.

Work with SERVPRO to ensure you don’t experience after fire odors

The effects of fire damage should not be underestimated. Knowing who to turn to for fire remediation efforts, including unplanned odor removal, can make the process less painful, and recovery faster. SERVPRO of East Phoenix can come in and begin the fire restoration process immediately; we’re available 24/7 to help. For any assistance after a house fire, call us at (602) 507-6163. We’re here to help!

Understanding Fire Remediation Cleaning Processes After a Fire in Your Home

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Whenever a fire burns inside a home, there are several different types of damage that possibly happen; each requiring a unique approach to clean and restore. Smoke coming from the fire can leave behind soils, soot residues, and foul smells. Understanding what cleaning techniques are used during fire remediation can make the process less stressful.

How SERVPRO addresses fire damage
 

While some items may get removed and replaced after a home fire if they’re not salvageable, SERVPRO's fire damage technicians attempt to restore and clean materials and contents whenever possible. If we use the right chemicals, we can clean and restore items that receive damage from smoke. When addressing soot left behind from a fire, we often use multiple methods to remediate the damage. Soot coming from burning different fuels has different compositions; some soot residues are hard to remove whereas some are easily wiped off. Some surfaces soot does not adhere well and can be easily cleaned. Other material surfaces with certain types of soot and cleaning are nearly impossible. Having fire remediation training allows our technicians to know how to address fire damage with the best approaches possible.

Three methods of cleaning soot
 

When cleaning soot off different types of walls, there are three primary methods. The three main cleaning methods for removing smoke damage are dry cleaning, wet cleaning, and peroxide-based cleaning. For non-grease-based soils, dry sponges seem to work well in most instances. The sponge is designed to attract soot residues so that they stick to the sponge instead of the walls, removing the soot more easily. In some scenarios, wet cleaning methods work better. For wet cleaning, SERVPRO uses soapy water and rags to scrub the walls and ceilings of homes. Wet cleaning works best when cleaning painted, wood or metal surfaces. This method works with heavy dry ash or soot residue and light to heavy oil-based residues. When cleaning specific materials, peroxide-active cleaning methods get utilized, based on the discretion of the fire remediation specialist. Peroxide cleaning works when removing soot from acoustical ceiling tiles.

Working with a remediation specialist provides better results

Fire remediation cleaning processes vary based on the situation, the kind of materials being dealt with, and the extent of the damage. Working with a fire remediation specialist provides professional guidance to get the job done. For professional assistance removing soot, call SERVPRO of East Phoenix at (602) 507-6163 24/7. We’re here to help you recover when you experience a fire in your home.

SERVPRO Helps You Through the Fire Damage Remediation Process for Faster Recovery

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

An unexpected fire can leave your home heavily damaged and in need of remediation and restoration as quickly as possible. Cleaning up such damage is not something that a homeowner should do on their own. Our team can arrive quickly to help you recover from a situation like a fire in your home.

SERVPRO has the expert training you need

Considering the unpredictable fire damages that could impact your home, you might not know where to begin when it comes to cleaning up the damage and getting your home back to pre-fire condition. Our SERVPRO technicians have in-depth training in loss mitigation and fire and smoke restoration through our certifications by the IICRC. We endeavor to be a comprehensive solution for our customers faced with the effects of a fire on their property. Whether the fire is big or small, we have the expert training you need. Our team is available 24 hours a day to provide the kind of immediate response that our customers require when they experience a disaster. With a set timeline for worsening conditions and compounding events, our SERVPRO professionals understand the importance of efficient responses to emergencies.

The SERVPRO fire remediation process

From the moment that our fire remediation technicians arrive at your home, we inspect the damage that your home has experienced and determine what steps are necessary to return it to preloss condition. Our specialists have ongoing training in the use of personal protective equipment to keep them safe and identify risks and hazards present in fire recovery projects. After inspection, we’ll explain what needs to be done to not only clean up the damage from the fire itself, but secondary damage that may have been caused by fire fighters as they worked to extinguish the flames. We clean up and dry out the property, remove smoke and soot, and will handle any lingering odors to ensure all traces of damage are gone by the time we leave the property. Should your property need building and construction services due to excessive damage, we can do that too! SERVPRO is your comprehensive resource to recover from any kind of fire damage to your home.

Call SERVPRO if you experience a home fire

When a fire damages your home, work with a team that can help you recover as quickly as possible. Our SERVPRO of East Phoenix IICRC-certified technicians have the ongoing training and industry-leading equipment to make an immediate difference in your home. You can reach our rapid response team anytime that disaster strikes by calling (602) 507-6163, 24/7.

Important Steps to Prevent a Home Fire

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO fire remediation experts are trained to be faster to any disaster, and to restore fire damage "Like it never even happened." You know we’re always a phone call away if you experience a house fire. However, the ideal situation is to avoid a fire in the first place. Here are a few tips to mitigate the risk of a fire before it happens.

Check Your Smoke Detectors

Be sure to regularly check the fire detectors throughout your home at least annually to ensure they have working batteries and are operating properly. You can usually do this by pressing the little button on your smoke detectors. If the alarm is loud, that means it’s working properly. If the sound is weak and faint, or there’s no sound at all, then that means you’re in need of a battery change. If you’re unsure how to test your smoke detectors or unable to, many local fire departments will provide this service for you. Keep those smoke detectors in working order!

Clean Your Stove and Oven

One of the leading causes of stove or oven fires are food bits left behind from past meals that can catch fire the next time you’re cooking, so it’s important to clean your stove and oven regularly to ensure there’s nothing that could suddenly spark a kitchen fire. Be sure to always make sure things like towels or oven mitts are far enough away from your stove and/or oven that they won’t accidentally catch on fire and never wear loose-fitting sleeves that can catch fire. Just be aware of what’s near those flames to avoid any fire risks.

Watch those flames

It’s important to never leave the kitchen while cooking because a fire can start quickly and can escalate even faster if you’re not there to take action right away. Remember that attacking grease fires will only further feed the flames and that the best way to subdue a grease fire is to cover it and trap it, not throw water on it. Keep an eye on children and pets while you’re cooking too; one small distraction can lead to a house fire and injury quickly, so always watch those flames and never leave a stove unattended while in use.

Clean The Lint Trap in Your Dryer

This is one of those things you should do after every load of laundry to be safe. It can be easy to forget, but when lint backs up in your dryer it can create a dangerous fire hazard. It’s also a good idea to check behind your dryer to ensure no lint or articles of clothing have fallen back there and created a fire risk. While cleaning it every time may not seem like much, an uncleaned dryer filter can quickly cause a house fire, so get in the habit of doing this!

Keep a Fire Extinguisher in Your Home

Keep a functional fire extinguisher somewhere that’s easily accessible in the event of a fire. If you’ve never used an extinguisher before, be sure you or someone in your home is properly trained to use a fire extinguisher. Here are a few basic tips when operating a fire extinguisher.

If you experience a fire, contact SERVPRO of East Phoenix

Sometimes despite your best effort, fires happen. If you experience a fire, contact us immediately, 24/7 at 602-507-6163. We specialize in fire remediation and can help you recover from the fire and get your life back on track.

Monsoon Lightning Poses Fire Threat to Phoenix Homes

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

In addition to torrential rain, monsoons can bring damage to your home through lightning strikes resulting in fire. If your home has been hit by lightning, you should call the fire department immediately. Learn what to do if your home experiences a fire and you need damage repair quickly.

Lightning strike fires

It’s common for fires to start in the attic or inside walls of homes when lightning strikes directly. These fires inside enclosed spaces might not be visible when they first start. Often, lightning passes through house branches and uses more than one path to ground at a time. It can jump from one conductive path to another as well. Lightning can quickly start a fire and create fire damage to your Phoenix home. Once the fire is out, the damage can continue due to smoke and soot. You’ll need to work with a professional to help recover from the fire.

How SERVPRO helps you recover from a lightning strike

Getting the fire extinguished is of course your first priority. Once the fire department leaves, however, your trouble isn’t over yet, as now you’re faced with fire damage cleanup. SERVPRO can help you clean up this soot covering in your home and prevent additional damages. Once you contact us, we waste no time in getting to your home to help you. Some soot residues are more straightforward to clean than others. Each fire goes through stages and crates both dry and wet smoke. Wet smoke is usually more difficult to clean.

More kinds of materials can be restored when exposed to dry smoke than wet. Dry smoke residues contain fewer aerosols and deposit small, dry particles on surfaces. It also does not stain surfaces as deeply as wet smoke, plus the odor is not as pungent. SERVPRO staff use cleaning procedures that are less aggressive to get rid of residues from dry smoke.

Restoration after a fire

Restoration, when wet smoke residues are present, is harder to clean. Wet smoke usually has a high number of aerosols like solvents, varnishes, and other liquid components. During a slow-burning fire, air currents do not drive the smoke from the fire’s heat. Wet smoke also moves slowly and has time to get into crevices and enclosed areas which generally would not get contaminated by a fire that is burning fast. SERVPRO follows a very specific fire restoration process to address your home’s contents and get your house back to preloss condition.

Unfortunately, sometimes contents exposed to wet smoke and a smoldering fire cannot be restored. Aerosols found in wet smoke penetrate and stain finished surfaces, and unfinished surfaces absorbed and entrap the residues. Our technicians will work with you to give you a complete understanding of what is salvageable and what needs to be removed. We’ll communicate with you throughout the entire process, so you have a complete understanding of what is happening.

SERVPRO of East Phoenix knows how to clean up all kinds of smoke residues, so your home is thoroughly restored after a fire. Contact us at (602) 507-6163 as soon as the fire is out, and we’ll get to work cleaning up the damage to your home.

How Fire Safe is Your Garage?

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

Safety-minded homeowners are diligent about keeping their homes safe from flames, including having an accessible fire extinguisher near the kitchen and having working smoke alarms throughout the house. Unfortunately, the garage is often overlooked. How fire safe is your garage?

Garages are a common area for fire damage

Garages are one of the most common sources of fire damage. If you park vehicles of any kind in the garage, there are items like gas or oil in your garage as well. It’s important to be careful keeping items like this stored in an enclosed space in your home. Since garages are typically out of sight most of the time when homeowners are home, a fire can start and go unsuspected until the damage is substantial and potentially spreading to the house itself. When that happens, flames can spread quickly, so the best defense against a fire is offense!

Be proactive to stay safe

When it comes to fire damage in your garage, being proactive is the best defense to keep your home as safe as possible from flames and the damage they can cause. Fuels, fluids, and cleaners should be sealed properly, and flammable materials stored away from elements. Electrical devices in a garage need to be used carefully. Do not overload the circuit box and be sure to unplug any units when they’re not in use. You should also have the right fire extinguisher in your garage. Clear any clutter out of your garage, as it cuts down on the probability of a fire spreading in the event of an emergency by limiting flammable materials. Flammable liquids need to be stored away from heat sources of any kind such as space heaters, vents, and pilot lights. Keep propane tanks outdoors. They are equipped and made sturdy for outdoor storage.

What to do if you experience a fire in your garage
 

After a fire in a garage, there are several forms of damage including smoke and soot, plus water damage from putting the fire out that need to be addressed. Give SERVPRO a call at 602-507-6163 as soon as the fire is safely out so we can salvage as much as possible through our fire remediation services. Our team of professionals is trained to assess the damage and potential threats, extract and contain the affected area, dry, and restore your property to preloss condition. 

How to Decide What to Discard After a House Fire

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

Damage that remains after a house fire can be devastating, and while there are many household items that a professional fire remediation company can assist with, there are certain items that are best discarded. Here’s how to determine what to keep and what to discard.

What items have a good chance of being salvaged

The contents inside your home may seem unsalvageable after a fire with all the smoke damage that can occur.  Fire damage cleanup professionals can restore many of your belongings, depending on the level of damage, including:

• Furniture
• Rugs and carpets
• Clothing
• Documents
• Books
• Purses
• Pots and pans
• Photo albums
• Art
• Decor
  

The professionals at SERVPRO of East Phoenix follow a fire repair process that can, unbelievably, bring your smoke damaged belongings back to their previous state. Depending on the level of damage, and if the damage was caused by flames, smoke, or chemicals used to extinguish a fire, many homeowners are pleasantly surprised but what can be salvaged.

What items are best discarded

Regardless of how large the fire was, there are some things that you should discard following a blaze. High heat can harm cosmetics, medicines, and food and these items simply can’t be restored, nor can you ensure they’re safe to use. You should get rid of any perishable items in the fridge and freezer if your appliances lose power for a significant amount of time. Even non-perishable food could be harmed during a fire; any open containers in the cupboard or on the counter should thus be thrown out as heat, water, smoke, and chemicals can all contaminate food . To be safe, you should throw away any sealed or unsealed food items that come into contact with these contaminants. Also, you should get rid of everything inside your refrigerator if it smells smoky or shows signs of soot damage. Examine your medicine cabinet following a fire. Any items that show signs of smoke discoloration or soot should be thrown out. Check for odors; if there is a smoky odor, chanced are the products are damaged and should be tossed.

Work with fire remediation specialists to decide what is salvageable

While it may not seem like it following a fire, you do not have to throw away everything in your house that shows damage. Fire remediation professionals can remove soot from furniture and even clean family heirlooms. SERVPRO of East Phoenix will help you determine what should stay and what should be discarded. House fires are traumatizing. If you experience a house fire, contact SERVPRO at 602-507-6163 to help get the fire remediation process started. We’re available 24/7 to help.

Kitchen Fires Can Have Lingering Odors

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

People are doing a lot more cooking at home these days, and for some, cooking is a fairly new routine. Those unfamiliar with the kitchen can make the mistake of leaving a stove unattended; the result is a kitchen fire. The only thing worse than fire damage in a home is being reminded of it every time you enter a room and smell those smoke odors left behind. Kitchen fires can have lingering odors. That is why it is to have your home professionally restored so the unpleasant smell of soot can be removed.

Mitigating odors after a fire

SERVPRO should be called to not only clean up after a fire but to help mitigate fire odor in a home. The smoke and soot damage, even if not severe, can leave behind a strong pungent odor. We can help not only with fire remediation but odors from fire as well. When SERVPRO technicians arrive, there are usually obvious signs of the fire due to the discolored walls and ceiling area around the stove. Odor-causing particles can hide in the smoke residue, and it is important to remove that residue as quickly and efficiently as possible. Our technicians use wet sponges with our deodorizing cleaning solutions to wipe away the traces on the walls and other surfaces affected by smoke and soot.

Why you should leave it to pros to clean up soot and tackle odors

Protein fires are particularly tough to clean because the protein-rich fibers in foods such as meat or eggs burn as a nearly invisible mist and coats everything in the general vicinity with a fine layer that is difficult to see but has a scent. Worse, porous items such as upholstery on kitchen chairs or kitchen curtains soak it up and require deep cleaning to remove the odor. We have several techniques and methods for odor control, and we apply them depending on the unique circumstances and the level of treatment needed. One of our most powerful odor control equipment is an ozone machine which, as the name implies, generates ozone. When ozone encounters odor-causing molecules, oxidation happens, and the odor is removed at the molecular level. It’s a highly effective way to mitigate odors after a fire.

Call SERVPRO if you experience a fire

Fire odor can be a terrible reminder of a fire in your kitchen, long after the kitchen soot and ash are cleaned up. Call SERVPRO of East Phoenix at (602) 507-6163; we have the equipment and expertise to eliminate odors left behind by fire damage.

Fire Safety Tips for the Holiday Season

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

As the holidays near, we’re using our kitchens and fireplaces more than we typically might. Kitchen fires tend to increase during this time of year with the additional use. Learn how to stay protected with these fire safety tips for the holiday season.

Kitchen fires

According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), kitchen fires' leading cause is unattended cooking. Thanksgiving ranks at the top of the list for home fires involving cooking equipment with three times the average number, followed by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve. Kitchen fires can be exceptionally damaging because of the variety of items that can catch on fire (stove, oven, toasters, and other appliances) as well as the extent of damage a kitchen fire can cause, including everything in your food pantry. Though accidents happen, learn how to keep your kitchen fire-safe this holiday and all year long.

Fire prevention tips for the kitchen

The potential for a kitchen fire doesn't have to put a damper on your holiday cooking:

• Stay in the kitchen when cooking so you can keep an eye on the food, especially when frying and sautéing with oil.
• When cooking a meal that takes a long time, like roasting or baking, check the items being cooked frequently. Using a timer is also a great way to keep engaged on what’s happening in the kitchen oven or on the stovetop. Company can be distracting, so put timers in different rooms so you can hear it over the music and party chatter or wear an alarm on your watch.
• Be alert when cooking. It's easy to get distracted when there is a lot of activity around you. To help minimize the risk of injury, avoid consuming alcohol while cooking to keep completely alert, or have others assist you in the kitchen.
• Keep objects that can catch fire, such as oven mitts, wooden utensils, food wrappers, and towels away from the stove.
• Make sure kids stay away from the stove and oven, hot food, and liquids. Curious little hands can cause an accident within seconds.
• Store toys, pocketbooks, and bags in a safe place so you, your guests, and the kids don't trip near the stove and oven or on a sharp corner of the counter.
• Move matches and utility lighters out of reach of children.
• Secure cords from electric knives, the coffee maker, plate warmer, mixer, and other cooking equipment at the far end of counters so no one accidentally pulls them off the edge.
• Keep floors clean and dry, wiping up spills immediately to avoid slips and falls.

Enjoy your holiday fireplace safely

Since it gets chilly around the holidays, many people will enjoy a nice, warm fire in the fireplace, plus nothing says cozy like a crackling fire! Here are a few tips to keep that fire where it belongs:

• Always have a screen in front of your fireplace
• Never leave a fireplace completely unattended
• Be sure your fireplace flue is open
• Consider having your flue inspected and cleaned before the holiday season
• Keep kids and pets away from the fireplace; even the screen can get scalding hot to the touch!

What to do if a fire occurs

If you experience a fire during the holiday season, don’t hesitate to contact SERVPRO of East Phoenix once the flames are extinguished. Whether the damage is large or small, caused by flames, soot, or chemicals from firefighters, SERVPRO’s trained fire remediation specialists can clean up the mess, address the damage, and do everything possible to get your home back to normal. Contact us 24/7 at 602-507-6163 to get your holiday back on track.

Addressing Soot After You Experience a Fire in Your Home

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

Sometimes even the smallest of fires in a kitchen can cause some serious damage. Not only can you experience appliances melted or fire damage on your walls and ceilings, you may also suffer from extensive soot damage, which can be a challenge to clean up. Here are a few tips on addressing soot after you experience a fire in your home.

What is soot?

Soot, sometimes called lampblack or carbon black, is a fine black or brown powder that can be slightly sticky and is a product of incomplete combustion. It leaves an ugly sight and foul smell. During a fire, soot spreads to the whole house, attaching to several surfaces. The acidic properties of soot can damage your home and indoor air quality if the soot is not removed immediately.

Do all house fires result in soot?

Most of the materials used for the construction of your home have the ability to catch fire and help it to spread throughout the structure. Unfortunately, this can spread the effects of this blaze all throughout your property, which means you will likely experience some level of soot in your home after a fire. While you might be tempted to simply clean up the soot on your home, cleanup is best left to the professionals, as it can be more difficult to completely clean than you might imagine.

When to call in fire clean up specialists

Most often the substantial effects that stand out from a house fire of any kind are smoke and soot damages. These are common versions of fire damage in homes, and they can often prove to be challenging to remove without the right equipment.  Fortunately, our SERVPRO professionals have the tools and expertise to help you through often widespread soot damages throughout your household. While the most concentrated of this effect can get found around the fires originating point where it burned the longest, this is not always the case. The debris and film from the combustion leaves a dark, often black residue on surfaces, furniture, flooring, and other materials. That is soot. Unless the fire didn’t spread at all and was quickly extinguished, it’s time to call fire clean up specialists, or those skilled in fire damage remediation, to help with clean up.

How can soot be removed? 
 
Removing this residue requires multiple approaches. For wall surfaces, scrubbing with wet and dry sponges can often remove the bulk of the present film. Confined spaces like ductwork require high powered vacuums to get used instead. SERVPRO of East Phoenix can assist in cleaning ductwork. Smoke damage often presents itself in the form of a harsh odor lingering in fabrics, carpeting and open spaces throughout affected areas of your house. Removal of this odor typically requires thermal fogging to break apart odor molecules and leave no discernable scent behind. Depending on the extent of soot damage found in the home, our highly trained technicians will know exactly what to do to address the soot throughout your home.

If you suffer a home fire, regardless of the extent of damage, it is a good idea to contact SERVPRO of East Phoenix to help with all your fire damage remediation needs, including addressing soot. We can be reached 24/7 at 602-507-6163. Let us help restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Fire Safety Tips for Your Home

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Fires can be devastating to homeowners, so it is critical to be as prepared as possible for this worst-case scenario event. We have pulled together a few tips on how to be prepared should a fire start in your home and what you should do. In the event of a house, every minute counts. Mere seconds can determine the severity of the damage that a fire can wreak upon your home. Having a fire emergency plan in place is necessary to keep your home protected during an emergency.

Have and understand your smoke alarms

Make sure that smoke alarms are installed on each level of your home at a minimum. You may also want to consider installing a smoke alarm inside every sleeping area in addition to the one alarm per level. Installing is only the first step! It is critical for smoke alarms to be tested regularly and that their batteries are changed yearly to make sure that they are functioning correctly. For extra protection, consider installing a central carbon monoxide detector to supplement your smoke alarms to protect your home from deadly fumes. This is especially important if you have gas appliances of any kind in your home.

Have and know how to use fire extinguishers

Be sure that there is at least one fire extinguisher in your home that is easy to access in the event of a fire. Most people keep an extinguisher in their kitchen but find a place that makes sense for quick access. The type of fire extinguisher recommended for household use is an ABC fire extinguisher, which can put out three different classes of fires. Here is a quick overview of those three classes: Class A covers trash, paper, and wood fires. Class B is for various liquids and gases. Class C is for fires emanating from electrical sources. It is vital that every person in your household understands how to use your fire extinguisher(s) beforehand so that you do not have to waste time reading the directions during an actual emergency. Remember, time is of the essence during a house fire!

Create and enforce safe practices in your home

Teach your children the dangers of playing with fire and always keep matches as well as lighters in a secure location away from them. Many household fires are caused by not having flammable items safely secured. Create a fire emergency plan with your family to have a predetermined escape route in the event of an emergency that your entire family can remember in case you become separated. During a house fire, safety is of the utmost importance, and having a plan of time will offer calm, organized action instead of panic and chaos, which can save lives.

Know who to call if you experience a fire

Once a fire has been put out, and everyone is safe, know who to call to help you recover from a fire. SERVPRO of East Phoenix has a large team of IICRC-certified professionals who can offer services ranging from debris removal and reconstruction through odor removal and environmental purification. With a 24/7 response to fire emergencies, our dedicated technicians can provide effective fire mitigation solutions to preserve your property and its contents from worsening conditions as we work to restore your home or business. We will help you recover from these challenging times, so reach out to us immediately after the flames are out to help get your home back to normal. Keep our contact information handy: (602) 507-6163.

Cleaning Smoke Damage After a House Fire

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Many homeowners think that they can clean-up smoke damage to their home after a fire. Unfortunately, that is never a good idea. Cleaning up smoke and soot damage requires professionals to do the job. That’s where SERVPRO comes in!

Bring in the Fire Damage Pros

A house that has e a fire is typically not safe to enter or spend time in, so practice extreme caution and don’t enter the house. The integrity of walls and floors may have been damaged, along with other hazards. It’s important not to enter the home until remediation professionals tell you it is safe to do so.

While you should not undertake trying to clean up smoke and soot damage from a house fire yourself, you should get the professionals into your home as soon as possible to keep further damage at a minimum. Ash and smoke, if left untreated, will cause corrosion, discoloration, and a lingering powerful and offensive odor. Ash will start causing damage and discoloration almost immediately, and the damage may be permanent and irreversible. Anything that was made of plastic will begin discoloring quickly. Metals will easily tarnish and corrode, and fiberglass will begin to yellow. This can be kept to a minimum if you act quickly after a fire.

If you get fire damage restoration professionals in soon enough after a house fire, they can mitigate or eliminate the smoke and ash damage from the fire and prevent further damage to your property. Unfortunately, if you don’t get the pros in early, the loss becomes worse and worse, and the costs to repair will begin to soar within just a few weeks. Let SERVPRO of East Phoenix help!

Know Who to Hire

Many companies claim to be fire damage restoration specialists, but they may not actually have the proper training and certification to do the job. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the primary oversight agency for the industry. Companies recognized, registered, and certified by the IICRC will have taken extensive coursework to earn their certification.

What a Trained and Certified Fire Damage Restoration Professional Does

A trained and certified fire damage restoration professional will first identify all affected materials and the source of odors, if possible. They will be extremely thorough. They will determine what can be salvaged and cleaned and what cannot be and must be replaced entirely. They will then begin the clean-up process by removing built-up ash residue. Once the ash is cleaned, they can better identify the sources of odors, which they will treat with special detergents made to neutralize the odors. Once fire damaged materials are treated, they will be sealed to prevent future odors from emitting into your home.

If you or anyone you know needs smoke or fire damage restoration services, SERVPRO of East Phoenix is here to help! Contact us today at (602) 507-6163. We’re available 24/7 to help.

The Help You Need to Remediate Your Home After a Fire

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

Any time a fire starts in your home, the entire situation can be devastating. As soon as the blaze ignites, the first step is to make sure everyone near it is safe and out of harm’s way, including the family pets. The next step is to put out the flames using water or an extinguisher. Unfortunately, the process doesn’t stop when the fire is out. Anytime materials burn inside your home, these materials and contents can receive a wide variety of damage, from soot to water damage to odor and possible mold if left unchecked. Therefore, mitigation and restoration procedures require utilizing different techniques depending on the kind and scope of the damage. SERVPRO of East Phoenix can help remediate your home after a fire.

The next steps after a fire in your home

The two main elements of a fire that can cause problems are its heat and smoke. When mitigating fire damage in Phoenix, our SERVPRO technicians are trained to deal with the large variety of potential issues. We follow a set and proven work process every time from the beginning of a job until the end. Following a set process helps us make sure we do not miss anything and ensures the results are consistent. Our professionals are trained in these techniques and know what it takes to get the job done!
 
Our SERVPRO restoration team is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week and know that professionalism begins as soon as we take your call. Time is of the essence when it comes to keeping damage at a minimum. Once we arrive at your residence, we get your information to start our job file and spring into action. We find out more from you about what happened and preview the loss to get a complete understand of the type of damage we’re facing.
 
The next step is the consult and test stage. Our IICRC certified estimators complete a full examination of the problems that took place as a result of the home fire. We test clean impacted contents and materials to see what we can restore and what will need to be replaced. During the inspection process, we listen to you to find out where all the affected areas could be. Items in drawers and cabinets could have been impacted, depending on the severity of the fire and what was burning.

After the inspection

After we finish the initial inspection, we create a detailed initial estimate for you and your insurance adjuster, so you know exactly what we found and our recommendations for remediation. Once the work is formally approved, we develop a scope of work and plan the different types of mitigation procedures needed. If anything changes during the work process, we work with you and your adjuster to approve the change. You’re involved in every step of the process until the work is done!  If you ever need help after a fire in your home, call SERVPRO of East Phoenix at (602) 507-6163 any day of the week.

How to Recover from A House Fire Caused by Electronics

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

Fires caused by electronics such as cell phones and cell phone chargers appear to be on the rise. More and more homes are investing in various types of electronics, all in need of charging at one point or another, and often left unattended. Since these electronics have become so commonplace for many people, we often forget basic safety habits that we should follow for these devices. When we don’t, we may suffer from a house fire caused by electronics, and the recovery process can be tough.

Basic safety guidelines to prevent a house fire from electronics.

Tablet and cell phone chargers need space to breathe, as they put off a significant amount of heat during charging cycles which have to be dispersed with the right amount of ventilation, yet many people will put these chargers by their beds, surrounded by books and other items which can cause significant heat. Devices that are covered up and not able to breathe can build up the heat and lead to igniting a fire; often when no one is home to quickly extinguish the flames. The lithium-ion batteries in these devices have containers that are pressurized and can rupture if the temperature goes up too fast or melt if they are heated for a long time. Many people mistakenly think electronics fires are caused by faulty chargers, but these fires can happen when devices are on a charger or not. Following basic safety rules can protect your Phoenix home from a house fire. Fire damage in your Phoenix home from your electronic devices are entirely avoidable. Not charging your phone in your bed, and making sure all devices are on a hard, flat surface while charging helps avoid these disasters.

What to do when you suffer from an electronics fire

If you experience fire from an overheated cell phone, tablet, or other devices, there’s a lot of clean up to face once the flames are extinguished. The aftermath can be overwhelming so it’s best to leave the cleanup to the professionals at SERVPRO of East Phoenix. We have the experience and training to know how to best clean up your home after a fire of any kind and understand the special challenges of fires caused by electronics.

Unlike burning wood or cloth, when electronics catch on fire, they emit particles like those from burning plastics which become electrically charged are known as ionization. What does that mean? It means the particles can adhere all over surfaces and can be a challenge to clean. At SERVPRO, we understand that because of ionization, clean up after an electronics fire takes special care to not only get rid of the smoke particles and get all surfaces clean again but to eliminate the acrid smell that accompanies burned plastics. Our highly trained technicians use advanced technology to clean your home, removed the burned electronics, and address any odor issues to restore your home to pre-fire conditions. When a SERVPRO technician arrives on the scene, they’ll do a thorough job evaluating the situation and how best to clean it, providing you with a clear plan ahead of time so you know exactly what to expect. We’re available 24/7 to help you recover from a fire caused by electronics.

You can rest assured that your East Phoenix home can be cleaned and restored by our staff thoroughly when you reach out to us at (602) 507-6163.

Looking for more ways to prevent fires in your home? Click here for tips on fire prevention in Phoenix.

How to Recover from A Kitchen Fire in Your Phoenix Home

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

Many fires experienced by Phoenix homes start in the kitchen. Between ovens, stoves, toaster ovens and other electrical appliances, as well as the potential for grease fires, there are plenty of opportunities for things to go wrong quickly and fires to start. Understanding what happens once the flames are out will help homeowners recover from a kitchen fire. SERVPRO of East Phoenix can help!

When a kitchen fire occurs, the damage adds up quickly

It’s a fairly typical scenario:  A fire starts in your kitchen, say, from a grease fire. While you were fortunate enough to distinguish the flames before it spread into another room, you’re still facing significant damage in one of the most functional rooms in your house. Perhaps cabinets were charred where you store canned goods, packaged staples, and backup condiments. Your countertops and surrounding walls were impacted by the flames as well. You need help with smoke and soot damage, as well as an assessment of the best steps to take to repair and replace burned appliances. Regardless of how severe the fire, there’s work to be done.

 
Your first line for recovery is calling in the experts

Once SERVPRO fire damage team arrives, they’ll conduct a comprehensive inspection of the fire-affected area and offer a recovery plan. They’ll look at any potential structural damage, and then go on to assess damage to appliances and other items in the kitchen. They’ll also do a thorough examination of what items were damaged with soot, and what kind of odor control measures need to be taken. The large team of IICRC-certified professionals can conduct services ranging from debris removal and reconstruction through odor removal and environmental purification. 

The cleaning process after a kitchen fire

After structural issues, if any, have been addressed, any damaged appliances are removed, but the work doesn’t stop there! Our technicians begin the process of cleaning with appropriate tools and products. When the pantry and cabinet areas have their turn, we may recommend most of the items be discarded depending on how heavy and damaging the smoke and soot ere. Fire residue and the chemicals in the extinguisher used to douse the flames filter into your foods, contaminating them, and making them unfit for consumption. SERVPRO of East Phoenix fire restoration specialists therefore strongly suggests disposal of any consumables stored in permeable bags and boxes. Even the food stored in a freezer or refrigerator are at risk of tainting from smoke, and other unsafe compounds as their seals are not airtight. Exposed fruits, vegetables, and baked goods all need to be tossed as the dangerous residues caused by the fire do not completely wash away.

Fire damage is painful, but restoration doesn’t have to be
 
Many types of fires happen every year in Phoenix. The experts from SERVPRO of East Phoenix  are here to help make your traumatic experience a little easier to recover from by offering our expert services in fire damage restoration. Give us a call at (602) 507-6163 for a post-fire inspection to get the restoration started.

Best Smoke Alarm - Protect from Fire Damage

6/29/2019 (Permalink)

The best smoke alarms are a crucial asset when it comes to protecting both residential and commercial properties in Phoenix from fire damages. There is no better time to update your smoke alarm system then the present, so which system will serve your needs the best? We’ve got the answer for you here.

Smoke alarms may not be able to prevent any fires but they can prevent anyone from getting hurt and the need later for any fire damage restorations. With all the smoke alarms on the market today, here’s what you need to know.

Smart Smoke Alarm Before Fire Damage Happens

Smart smoke alarms function just like any other alarm, but it is unique in that it sends alerts to your phone, even when you’re away from the property. Alerts of any smoke detected and to let you know when it’s time to change the batteries. They also alert to any internal operating issues going on. The Nest comes with a Split-Spectrum Sensor, and tests itself automatically. You can stay safe for up to a decade.

Dual-Sensor Protects from Fire Damages

Both Ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms are at the top of their game for detecting different types of fires and a dual-sensor smoke alarm does both. The Kidde Hardwire Smoke Detector will help in protecting your property from fire damages. It comes with a 9V battery backup in case of a power outage.

No Fire Damages with the Smoke Alarm with Security System

The Vivint Smoke Alarm has you covered when attempting to avoid any issues concerning smoke and fire. A smoke and carbon monoxide detector interconnected with your security system, also with a back up battery pack seems to cover every base.

At SERVPRO of East Phoenix, we understand that fire damages still happen, and we are there to mitigate fire and smoke damages and restore your residential or commercial property to it’s pre loss condition in a short amount of time. 

If you ever have to deal with smoke and fire damages, call SERVPRO of East Phoenix, 602-386-4268 for immediate emergency fire restoration services 24/7. We got you covered.

Current Commercial Building Fire Code - Is Yours Up to Date?

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Phoenix Commercial Property Fire

60 to 80 percent of businesses that experience a structural fire never recover from fire damage that the commercial building is left with. So it’s imperative that you keep up to date with the latest community fire code, not only to protect from such disasters, but to avoid being fined as well.

The City of Phoenix updates the fire code annually and is currently reviewing the 2018 International Fire code for 2019. Unfortunately, many commercial property owners do not update their fire disaster prevention methods when these updates are made.

Some of the more common code violations following the latest updates are:

• Failure to install sprinklers in buildings that now require them.
• Fire exits are not maintained up to code standards
• Failure to install fire alarms where they are now required
• Appropriate signage is not updated
• Fire prevention equipment has not been updated to support structural changes to the building (fire department hook-ups, sprinklers, alarms, and extinguishers).

These relatively simple things should be taken more seriously when it comes to protecting your investment from a tragic fire. Did you know that you can call your local fire department and request to have a voluntary inspection?  A firefighter will come out and designate fire hazards in your building prior to the official inspector who could violate these hazards leaving you with costly fees.

So, if your commercial property experiences a fire despite code compliance, SERVPRO of East Phoenix immediately responds 24/7/365 with mitigation, restoration and reconstruction services "Like it never even happened."

How SERVPRO Uses Restorative Cleaning to Remediate Fire Damage in Phoenix

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has what it takes to restore your fire damaged home.

Crucial Steps During Fire Cleanup in Phoenix that Lead to a Positive Outcome

Cleaning up property after a fire incident is essential to remove debris and other wastes left by the fire. A home is no longer a comfortable place with such debris spread all over its confines. Restorative cleaning, on the other hand, provides a cheaper fix compared to replacement. There is a need to take several steps for a proper cleaning exercise in Phoenix.  

Flames and heat scorch many items leaving a considerable amount of debris to deal with during fire cleanup in Phoenix. Collecting and removing the items from the property is not difficult. However, some items might only be covered in soot and not physically damaged, so it is necessary to sort them to avoid throwing out salvageable items. Our SERVPRO technicians sort the affected contents into groups of salvageable, unsalvageable and questionable items. We dispose of unsalvageable items then clean up the questionable and salvageable ones.  

Smoke residues accumulate on various surfaces. Sometimes they also penetrate beyond the surface because the heat from the fire opens up pores allowing convection currents to drive them further. Capturing and removing such residues requires different actions including agitation, chemical action and in some cases temperature to speed up the process. Our SERVPRO technicians use dry cleaning methods such as wiping with a sponge or vacuuming the affected areas. We also use wet cleaning approaches that utilize professional cleaning agents and equipment such as pressure washers.  

It is common for bad odors to linger after cleaning up fire-damaged properties. In some cases, it is possible to remove the smell by ventilating the property. However, most cases require elaborate deodorization efforts. Our SERVPRO technicians combine multiple approaches to deal with all malodors. We can spray chemical deodorizers directly on odor causing materials to prevent odor molecules from escaping into the air. Fogging the affected property helps release deodorizers in tiny particles, which penetrate materials just like the malodors and then neutralize them by changing their chemical composition. We also use special deodorization equipment such as Ozone and Hydroxyl generators.  

To make your property habitable again after fire damage, call SERVPRO of East Phoenix to help you clean it up. You can reach us at (602) 507-6163 any time. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

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Some Steps Towards Fire Damage Remediation Success in Phoenix

3/31/2019 (Permalink)

Team SERVPRO can help homeowners with all aspects of fire damage remediation including the insurance claims. Call us today.

Fire Damage Insurance Claims for Your Phoenix Home

Fires can present many effects throughout your Phoenix home that are too challenging for homeowners to address on their own safely. With a rapid response from trained professionals like ours, we can offer effective mitigation solutions that can not only reduce the time restoration as a whole takes to complete but also reduces your out of pocket expenses. As a full-service company, we can offer effective mitigation, reconstruction, and restoration, ensuring that all phases of fire recovery happen immediately following the last through the completion of the project.

One of the most challenging aspects of fire damage restoration in Phoenix for many homeowners is the red tape of getting a damage claim approved through their insurance provider. Our SERVPRO team can also help in this regard, as we are preferred restoration specialists for many of the insurance companies throughout our area, and have worked closely with all local and major insurance companies to help our customers get the restoration and mitigation work their properties require.

It is often recommended to reach out to our SERVPRO professionals even before you speak to your insurance provider about filing a damage claim. Our estimator and IICRC-certified restoration technicians can arrive quickly, 24-hours a day, to begin a thorough inspection and assessment of your damaged property. By cataloging both damages and loss, as well as taking photographs as evidence of the present damage, our team can provide your insurance company with the documentation required to approve a damage claim you file.

In addition to helping the claim to get more quickly approved, we can begin mitigation work in your home immediately with our initial arrival. This approach ensures that you and your property do not wait for the effective mitigation that can protect contents and unaffected areas of your home that could become damaged in the time after extinguishment.

Many steps are necessary to restore your home after a fire, but with the right help from qualified professionals like our SERVPRO of East Phoenix team, things can happen much more quickly. If you want to make fire damages “Like it never even happened.” give our rapid response team a call 24/7 at (602) 507-6163.

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We Can Restore Your Damaged Items After A Fire In Your Phoenix Home

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

If a fire ever takes place inside your Phoenix home, the flames can engulf many of your contents and building materials as fuel.

Fire Damage Experts In Phoenix Discuss Refinishing Burnt Items

If a fire ever takes place inside your Phoenix home, the flames can engulf many of your contents and building materials as fuel. In many fire damage scenarios, your contents or building materials can get burnt to the point to where they must be removed and replaced. Since fires all burn things at different temperatures, some items could get only partially charred. Sometimes when charring is not severe, objects can be repaired by soot removal and refinishing. When mitigating any fire damage project, our SERVPRO estimators figure out right off the bat what we think we can refinish, clean and, repair and what we feel will need to be replaced and counted as a loss.

During the initial testing and estimate phase, our SERVPRO technicians use a testing kit to determine what types of soot residues can be cleaned off and what types could be a permanent discoloration. During the initial test, we use a variety of chemicals and techniques on your property that received fire damage in Phoenix, so we know which chemicals will work with which types of residues. In some situations, soot residues are too difficult to remove, and smoke-related problems could still cause the item to get replaced.

Once our SERVPRO team deems the working area safe for all occupants, we begin the restoration process by removing burnt materials. We first go through and remove and properly discard any items that are burnt too bad to fix. When dealing with wooden items such as studs or trusses, we measure the amount of charring on the surface determine whether something can be saved or if it must be replaced. The rule normally is that if the charring is deeper than a quarter inch, then the item must be replaced. If wooden items only get burnt less than a quarter inch deep, then we sometimes can sand off the charred material and seal it with a specialized sealant.

If you ever get building materials or contents burnt in a fire, call SERVPRO of East Phoenix at (602) 507-6163 24/7.

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SERVPRO Says Small Phoenix House Fires Can Still Be a Great Loss

12/17/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Removes the Ash from Phoenix

Fire Loss Experts In Phoenix Talk About Minor Smoke Damage

Anytime a fire ignites inside a building many things inside can get damaged. Even if the amount of items that get burned is minor, significant fire loss can still take place at your residence. Each year, dozens of volunteer and career firefighters lose their lives along with a few thousand civilians. Fires account for more than seventeen thousand injuries every year in the U.S. Although most injuries take place during large and more severe blazes, even the smallest burns can force your property to suffer a fire loss.
 
When anything burns, some substances entirely turn to gas once heat is applied and fully combust, while some do not. Particles that do not combust entirely and get released into a building can cause fire loss inside your Phoenix home even if the blaze is small. Smoke can quickly spread throughout your home. When smoke comes into contact with cooler surfaces, the partially combusted particles can transform back into a solid form. Once this happens, soot residue and other soils can appear visible on the surfaces of your sheetrock and other building materials as well as the contents that are present inside your house.
 
Luckily, our SERVPRO technicians are IICRC certified and experienced in dealing with smoke and fire damage situations. We know that even a small burn that takes place inside your kitchen can cause your home extensive damage. We are trained at finding even the most unnoticeable damage that could cause you problems in the future.
 
Smoke cannot only cause residues to exist on the surface of items inside your home, but it can also penetrate materials and cause burnt aromas to exist. Smoke can seep deep into porous materials and cause them to put out unpleasant smells into your house's airflow system. Our crews at SERVPRO can utilize certain methods and chemicals that will help extinguish such foul odors.

If you ever have a problem after something burns, call SERVPRO of East Phoenix at (602) 507-6163 any time of the day or night.

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How to Navigate Through the Fire Damage Remediation Process in Phoenix

11/9/2018 (Permalink)

If fire damage affected your home, contact the certified technicians and project managers at SERVPRO to handle the remediation.

Responding Quickly for Fire Recovery in Your Phoenix Home

Unexpected disasters can leave your Phoenix home heavily damaged and in desperate need of mitigation and restoration steps. Preserving your property is not something that a homeowner can do on their own, which leads to your need for professionally trained technicians. Our team can arrive quickly to help you recover from a widespread situation like a fire in your home.

Considering the varying fire damages in Phoenix that could impact your home, you might not know where to begin when it comes to cleaning up the mess and setting things right again. Our SERVPRO technicians have unique training in loss mitigation and Fire and Smoke Restoration through our certifications by the IICRC. We strive to be an effective and comprehensive solution for our customers faced with the effects of a fire on their property.

Our team is available 24 hours a day to provide the kind of immediate response that our customers require when they experience a disaster. With a set timeline for worsening conditions and compounding events, our SERVPRO professionals understand the importance of efficient responses to emergencies.

From the moment that our experienced professionals arrive at your address, we set out to learn all that we can about the damage that your home has experienced and what steps are necessary to return it to preloss condition. You should wait for our response team to arrive before inspecting the damage yourself, as there could be hazards and contaminants present that pose health concerns or safety concerns for untrained people. Our specialists have ongoing training in the use of personal protective equipment to keep them safe and identify risks and hazards present in fire recovery projects.

When a fire threatens your home, you need a team that can arrive quickly to help you start to put things back to the way they used to be. Our SERVPRO of East Phoenix IICRC-certified technicians have the ongoing training and industry-leading equipment to make an immediate difference in your home. You can reach our rapid response team anytime that disaster strikes by calling (602) 507-6163.

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Professional Fire Damage Restoration Is Cost Effective in Phoenix

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

Count on SERVPRO for Phoenix Property Fire and Smoke Damage Cleanup and Restoration

SERVPRO Says Save Money and Possessions After a House Fire--Call Us for Cleanup and Restoration

When a fire damages your Phoenix home, you may want to try to manage the cleanup yourself as a cost-saving measure. The hours and days after a fire are very stressful. To be sure that cleanup, repair, restoration, and odor control complete before permanent damage is done a team approach is necessary. Our trained crews are ready with the skills, products, and equipment needed to manage fire damage efficiently.
 
Many tasks need completion after fire damage in Phoenix and every minute counts. The smoke and soot residues that are both airborne and settling on surfaces are extremely corrosive. The damage worsens the longer it takes for restoration to complete. Surfaces or items that needed only a thorough cleaning to be usable again if attended to immediately may need extensive repairs or demolition and replacement when days or weeks pass before you get to them. Our crews are familiar with all the details needed for fire damage remediation and can rank, work on, and finish all necessary tasks in order and fast.
 
Because a home fire is a rare occurrence for any given individual, you may not be aware of how advanced SERVPRO’s restoration skills are. If you face rooms full of blackened and soot-coated possessions a first impulse can be to discard them, despairing of them ever functioning or looking the same again. Replacing items is costly and sometimes impossible when they are heirlooms or other treasured belongings.
 
The strategies the SERVPRO production team members master at IICRC training and perfect through years of experience bring your fire damaged objects back to life. If, as is common after a fire, your books and documents show water damage as well, we use innovative techniques such as freeze-drying to recover them. We are a full-service restoration company and handle all types of disaster recovery well, including working with your insurance company at every stage.
 
Lingering smoke odors can prevent a homeowner from moving on after a fire, despite all the effort made to return the building, interior, and contents to preloss condition. Left to your own devices you might try candles, solid air fresheners, and sprays that merely mask the odor. SERVPRO uses research-based deodorization methods matched to the type of fire, how hot it burned, and the fuel. Professional cleaning and containment are some of the steps, but we also offer cutting-edge advancements such as thermal fogging and oxygenation technology such as hydroxyl generators that eliminate odors at the molecular level.
 
SERVPRO of East Phoenix awaits your call to (602) 507-6163 after fire damages your home. Let us assess and plan for a successful fire damage recovery, saving your home and possessions as well as your money in the process.

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Cleaning processes That Offer Options When Addressing Fire Damage in Phoenix

6/1/2018 (Permalink)

When fire damage strikes your house, we strike back.

SERVPRO Can Handle Any Type of Phoenix Fire Damage Issues

A fire damage experience brings forth substantial losses and every property owner who goes through such moments is left stressed. No matter how bad the fire is, there are still chances of restoring some of your contents and parts of the building. The key to this lies in working with professionals who use specialized techniques. After all, restoration should be the first option to any Phoenix resident before considering replacing or refinishing measures.

Cleaning is part of the restoration procedures that our SERVPRO technicians use when attending to fire damage incidents in Phoenix. Some of the cleaning processes we use include immersion cleaning, foam cleaning, abrasive cleaning wet cleaning, dry cleaning, spray and wipe cleaning. When cleaning through immersion, we dip contents in a cleaning product, and that means such materials should stand saturation. Ultrasonic cleaning, which involves placing items in an ultrasonic tank full of a mixture of a cleaning solution and water is a form of immersion cleaning.

Wet cleaning is an option when our SERVPRO technicians need to remove moderate to massive particles. In this process, we thoroughly saturate the item with water or an appropriate cleaning agent. When there are chances of damaging the contents through saturation, then spray and wipe is an option. Under this technique, our SERVPRO technicians apply a cleaning product with the help of a spray bottle and then wipe using a clean towel.

If we need to remove light to medium residues or prepare surfaces for wet cleaning, then our SERVPRO team uses dry cleaning. During this technique, we can use feather dusters to brush or wipe surfaces, and vacuuming or cleaning sponges to remove particulate soiling and light residues. When it is necessary to agitate residues from an area, then abrasive cleaning is an option. In this process, we can apply a cleaning agent having abrasive elements on surfaces, or start by applying a cleaning product and then using an abrasive material to do the cleaning. To avoid scratching the surfaces, we usually apply a sufficient amount of the cleaning product to enhance lubrication.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of East Phoenix is a locally owned and operated industry leader in the fire restoration industry. Call us at (602) 507-6163 at any time of the day and get proven services from our experienced technicians.

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Phoenix's Fire Damage Cleaning Techniques Explained

4/22/2018 (Permalink)

When soot residues and charred items remain after a fire, contact SERVPRO for remediation services immediately after you are in a safe area.

SERVPRO Technicians Use Three Main Soot Cleaning Methods

Whenever a fire burns inside your Phoenix home, there are several different types of damage that possibly happen. Heat and flames burn structural materials and contents sometimes forcing them to get replaced. Smoke coming from the fire can leave behind soils, soot residues, and foul smells.
 
If the fire damage is real severe, then many items may get removed and replaced. SERVPRO's fire damage technicians in Phoenix attempt to restore and clean materials and contents because it is cheaper than removal. If we use the right chemicals, we can clean and restore items that receive damage from smoke.
 
When removing soot left behind from a burn we often use multiple methods. Soot coming from burning different fuels has different compositions. Some soot residues are hard to remove whereas some are easily wiped off.
 
The type of material damaged also makes a difference when it comes to cleaning. Some surfaces soot does not adhere to real well and can be easily cleaned. Other material surfaces combing well with certain types of soot and cleaning is nearly impossible.
 
When cleaning soot off of different types of walls, there are three primary methods. The three main cleaning methods for removing smoke damage are dry cleaning, wet cleaning, and peroxide-based cleaning.
 
For light to medium non-grease based soils, dry sponges seem to work well. The sponges get used either by hand or with a long pole for high areas. The sponge is made to attract soot residues so that they stick to the sponge instead of the walls.
 
In some scenarios, wet cleaning methods work better. In this case, we use soapy water and rags to scrub the walls and ceilings. Wet cleaning works best when cleaning painted, wood or metal surfaces. This method works with heavy dry ash or soot residue and light to heavy oil-based residues.
 
When cleaning specific materials, peroxide-active cleaning methods get used. Peroxide cleaning works when removing soot from acoustical ceiling tiles. For professional assistance removing soot, call SERVPRO of East Phoenix at (602) 507-6163 24/7.
 
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Finding Your Bearings After a Devastating Fire to Your Phoenix Home

2/27/2018 (Permalink)

When firefighters extinguish flames, water damage can be left behind.

SERVPRO is Here to Help Restore Your Home after a Fire

Fire is never something easy to come back from, especially when it is widespread and affects multiple areas of your Phoenix home. When you are staring down the excessive damage to your house and find yourself overwhelmed with the thought of how to set things right again, this is where professional restoration services can come to your aid.

Fire damage to your Phoenix home can show itself in a multitude of ways, and they affect each homeowner differently. Communication becomes an intricate part of the restoration process after a fire because our SERVPRO professionals want to begin with the issues and effects that are the most problematic for living comfortably in your home and moving forward.

From the moment that we arrive at your home, our restoration specialists get to work on assessing which of the effects from the recent fire pose the most significant threats to a safe living and combine that with your list of priorities. Before any work can begin, holes and exterior damage to your home must get remedied. This process typically gets accomplished with the use of tarps and heavy boards over damage to roofs, walls, windows, and doorways. This preventative measure prevents further damage from the elements from exposed and vulnerable areas of your house.

With extinguishing, water damage often results from the high volumes of hydrant water that gets used to quell the flames. Extraction of this water keeps further structural damage from occurring and gives a clear starting point for our restoration team. Once the water has gotten successfully dried utilizing air movers and dehumidification equipment, we can set our sights on the effects of the fire itself.

Working to restore the damage to your home combines all the facets of restoration certification and training that our SERVPRO professionals undergo. From deodorization using our fog equipment to cleaning affected surfaces and contents using our scrubbing tools, no stone gets left unturned in the process.

There is no easy way to deal with fire damage to your home, but with the right restoration team at your disposal, you never have to go about it alone. You can always reach out to SERVPRO of East Phoenix. Our experienced professionals are available anytime you need us at (602) 507-6163.

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Smoke and Fire Damage Cleanup in Your Phoenix Home After Cell Phone Fire

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

Cell phones can get overheated while charging if they do not have enough room to properly ventilate.

The Dangers of a House Fire Caused by Phones and Chargers

Fires caused by electronic devices have been on the rise, and Phoenix is not exempt. Tablet and cell phone chargers need space to breathe, as they put off a significant amount of heat during charging cycles which have to be dispersed with the right amount of ventilation. Devices that are covered up and not able to breathe can build up the heat and lead to igniting a fire. Lithium-ion batteries in these devices have containers that are pressurized and can rupture if the temperature goes up too fast, or melt down if they are heated for a long time.

Fires and fire damage in your Phoenix home from your electronic devices are entirely avoidable. Not charging your phone in your bed, and making sure all devices are on a hard, flat surface while charging helps avoid these disasters. If a fire has started from an overheated cell phone or tablet, you could be looking at much cleanup that is best left to the professionals at SERVPRO. We have the experience and training to know how to best clean up your home after a fire.

During a fire, smoke particles like those from burning plastics which become electrically charged are known as ionization. Surfaces with the opposite electrical charge may attract smoke residues that are strongly charged since opposite charges attract. The charge is present in many plastics and synthetic fibers.

At SERVPRO, we understand that because of ionization, smoke webs can be found on various surfaces in your home. Residues can create long strings of smoke particles that are ionized which assemble at junctions in ceilings and walls or corners. Webs of smoke look just like cobwebs.

Smoke particles that are ionized, cluster on metal surfaces. Charged smoke particles are attracted to metal surfaces through magnetism, like coat hangers and plumbing pipes. Smoke clearly outlines nail heads under drywall since their magnetic attraction remains effective, even with a covering of plaster and paint.

With the burning of plastic phones and covers, plus other similar materials like this in a bedroom perhaps, SERVPRO of East Phoenix knows that ionization is possible. You can rest assured that your home in Tempe, Arcadia, or East Phoenix can be cleaned and restored by our staff thoroughly when you reach out to us at (602) 507-6163.

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Enhancing Existing Protection of Your Phoenix Business Assets with the Emergency READY Plan Program

7/31/2017 (Permalink)

The ERP from SERVPRO Aids in the Prevention and Reduction of Fire Damage in Phoenix

SERVPRO Provides Solutions to Reduce the Impact of Commercial Fire Damaging Events

Having a home, business, or other building that you are in charge of comes with many responsibilities. We can help you in the task of assessing your properties, regardless of size or function. Compiling this information in one highly accessible location is one of the easiest but most effective ways to reduce loss, damage, and safety issues.
 
The Emergency READY Plan (ERP) Program from SERVPRO is a must-have tool that you can pass on to others who share responsibility with you. In any disaster, either internally or externally driven, seconds can mean the difference between the loss of irreplaceable items, thousands of dollars in additional damage, and even the loss of life. For the Phoenix area, fire damage mitigation is crucial to allow the 'Phoenix to rise from the ashes." We can help.
 
You already have smoke detectors, fire alarms, extinguishers, and water sprinkler systems in place. Those are useful measures for fire prevention and detection, but they cannot hold up to a fierce fire, storm, flood, or other situation. Adding to it, especially when doing so is easy and also free can help your disaster go away much faster, and contribute to ensuring that your assets and investments are more than adequately protected.
 
Available on several platforms (PC, iPhone, Blackberry, and Android), the READY Plan walks you through the steps to create a READY Profile. One Profile for each property keeps everything better organized and confusion-free. Each Profile can be shared via email after you have decided on the recipient's read-only or ability to edit the Plan. This way, managers can add important details that might develop or change in the future while others who are only expected to respond in a disaster can.
 
The READY Plan makes it possible for everyone involved to be as efficient as possible by using every minute available to them beneficially. Every act that your managers and employees can carry out can reduce the impact of the disaster. For homeowners, this is equally true in the case of your spouse or another adult who is at home while you are away at work.
 
SERVPRO of East Phoenix is here to advise you throughout the process. Our number, (602) 507-6163, is always answered whenever you need us, both in the preparation of any possible disasters and in the event any ever come to pass.

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Fire Damage and Your Pantry in Phoenix

6/19/2017 (Permalink)

Toasters and other appliances that malfunction can start a fire in your kitchen. Call SERVPRO immediately after for best results.

SERVPRO Technicians Customize a Fire Damage Recovery Plan for Your Home

Fire damage is pervasive, affecting every facet of life within your home. Many things inside a dwelling suffer non-obvious damage that threatens to create real hazards for the inhabitants. Finding a high-quality, reputable restoration company is the key to avoiding the harm that could come from hidden fire damage. SERVPRO helps homeowners make proper decisions to keep them and their families safe.
 
A malfunctioning toaster oven started a blaze resulting in quite a bit of fire damage in your Phoenix home. Before conquering the blaze with your fire extinguisher several cabinets charred, including a built in pantry area where you store canned goods, packaged staples, and backup condiments. You need help with smoke and soot damage, as well as an assessment of the best steps to take to repair and replace burned fixtures. We have as our mission thorough restoration after any type and severity of fire.
 
Once our SERVPRO fire damage team arrives, expect a comprehensive inspection of the fire-affected areas before we offer an individualized recovery plan. Typical steps include removal of the offending toaster oven, an evaluation of the wiring in the outlet the oven used, an examination of burned areas of the kitchen cabinets, and the development of a plan to clean soot and smoke residue from the area. We look at the HVAC system for soot deposits that indicate the possible spread of odors and greasy deposits if the ducts remain uncleaned.
 
Our technicians begin the process of cleaning with appropriate tools and products. When the pantry area has its turn, you may note with surprise that we recommend most of the items be discarded. Fire residue and the chemicals in the extinguisher used to douse the flames filter into your foodstuffs, contaminating them, making them unfit to consume. SERVPRO strongly suggests disposal of any consumables stored in permeable bags and boxes.
 
Fumes and chemicals produced by the combustion pass through plastic bags and wrap, travel up the threads of a screw top, or past the seal of a capped bottle. Adding heat from the fire causes cans to unseal or their contents to partially cook, creating spoilage through microbial growth. Even the food stored in a freezer or refrigerator are at risk of tainting from smoke, and other unsafe compounds as their seals are not airtight. Exposed fruits, vegetables, and baked goods all need to be tossed as the dangerous residues caused by the fire do not completely wash away.
 
Count on the experts from SERVPRO of East Phoenix to advise you properly on unanticipated fire damage risks. Give us a call at (602) 507-6163 for a post-fire inspection to get the restoration rolling.

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