Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts
Navigating Fire Damage
7/9/2024 (Permalink)
Experiencing a fire can be devastating, but the aftermath also presents significant challenges. At SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County, we understand the complexities of fire damage and are committed to helping you through the restoration process.
The initial step after a fire is ensuring safety. Do not re-enter your property until professionals declare it safe. Fires can weaken structures, leaving them prone to collapse. Also, ensure the fire department has thoroughly extinguished any remaining hot spots to prevent re-ignition.
Once safety is assured, assess the extent of the damage. Fire doesn’t just burn; it causes soot and smoke damage, which can be extensive. Smoke penetrates walls, furniture, and other materials, leaving behind unpleasant odors and potential health hazards. Soot can cover surfaces with a greasy, black residue that is difficult to clean.
Begin the cleaning process by ventilating the property to remove smoke odors. Use protective gear to avoid inhaling harmful particles. Soot can often be removed from surfaces with a vacuum or specialized cleaning agents, but avoid using water on electrical appliances and devices until they have been inspected by a professional.
Water damage from firefighting efforts is another critical aspect to address. Extract standing water and dry affected areas promptly to prevent mold growth. Professional-grade dehumidifiers and air movers can expedite this process.
Restoration involves repairing structural damage and replacing irreparable items. This phase can be overwhelming, but SERVPRO’s experienced team can help you navigate the complexities. We offer comprehensive fire damage restoration services, from debris removal and odor elimination to complete reconstruction.
Fire damage is distressing, but you don’t have to face it alone. At SERVPRO® , we’re dedicated to restoring your property and peace of mind. Contact us anytime for professional, compassionate assistance.
Fire Damage in Your Northwest Indiana Business
11/8/2023 (Permalink)
Fire damage is especially devastating for a business or commercial property. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, significant water damage from firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. Every hour spent restoring your business back to pre-fire condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.
SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies. Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, motel, or office building, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.
If you experience a fire in your business, call SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County.
219-947-9931
Proudly serving: Hobart, Lake Station, Merrillville, Gary, Crown Point and surrounding areas.
Call Us For Help After A House Fire
10/12/2022 (Permalink)
After the fire trucks are gone, your home and belongings likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County has the specialized fire and water damage cleanup and restoration training and experience to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition. We also have specific training and equipment for odor removal and deep cleaning of upholstery and carpet.
Fire damage can be devastating for you and your family. Feelings of confusion and stress are common, and you need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We always treat your family with the greatest empathy and respect, and we’ll treat your property with great care.
Call SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County (219) 947-9931
Steps in Our Fire Restoration Process
6/13/2022 (Permalink)
- Emergency Contact-our process begins when you call SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County.
- Inspection and Assessment-our technicians will carefully inspect and test your property to determine the extent of the damage.
- Immediate Board-up and roof tarp-to maintain security and protect against further damage.
- Water Removal and Drying-water removal will almost begin immediately.
- Removal of Smoke and Soot-we use specialized equipment to remove soot and smoke from ceilings, walls and other surfaces.
- Cleaning and Sanitizing-we remove affected materials while minimizing damage to unaffected or restorable surfaces.
- Repair and Construction-after these steps, your home may need construction work to get your property back to its preloss condition.
If you have a fire in your home or business, call 219-947-9931
We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Call SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County After A Fire
6/8/2022 (Permalink)
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action in your Lake County home.Smoke and soot facts:
Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting.
We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (219)947-9931
Fire in your Merrillville business
4/19/2022 (Permalink)
Fire damage is especially devastating for a business or commercial property. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, significant water damage from firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. Every hour spent restoring your business back to pre-fire condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.
SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies. Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, motel, or office building, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.
If you experience a fire in your business, call SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County.
219-947-9931
Proudly serving: Hobart, Lake Station, Merrillville, Gary, Crown Point and surrounding areas.
Fire In Your Merrillville Restaurant
4/19/2022 (Permalink)
AT SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County our number one priority is getting your business and dining room back in operation as quickly as possible.
When a fire strikes your restaurant or manufacturing center, you need the expertise of a team who is trained in food service cleanup.
At SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County our specialists are trained in health codes, regulations and the use of food-safe products. We understand the importance of getting your dining room, kitchen or production operational with minimal or no interruption at all. We’ll work to ensure all surfaces are restored and sanitized to health and food safety specifications, and you are able to get back to business quicker.
Our experience in the food service industry has given us the ability to provide a variety of detailed services for the following types of facilities:
- Food Manufacturing Facilities
- Food Distribution Centers
- Fast Food Restaurants
- Fine Dining Restaurants
- Senior Living Facility Kitchens
- School Cafeterias
Merrillville Smoke and Soot Cleanup
10/12/2021 (Permalink)
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
- Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
- Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
- The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
- Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
- Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
- Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 219-947-9931
Fire In Your Merrillville Home
10/12/2021 (Permalink)
A fire in a Merrillville, Indiana home.
We know that a fire is devastating. We know you want to start cleaning it up right away, but a house with any kind of fire damage is not safe to enter. So you need to leave the fire cleanup to the professionals of SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County.
Smoke and Ash that is left untreated can cause you problems down the road. It can cause permanent odors, corrosion, and discoloration. Soot can cause severe medical problems and possibly even death if inhaled. It is imperative to call a trained fire cleanup specialist. SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County can prevent further damage to your Lake County home! We are trained to make your fire damage, "Like it never even happened." So act quickly and call us right away!
(219) 947-9931
Emergency Fire Damage Tips
6/8/2021 (Permalink)
Emergency DOs AND DON'Ts
These emergency tips will assist you in taking proper action until a SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County Professional arrives. Follow these DOs and DON'Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration.
- Limit movement in the home to prevent spot particles from being embedded into carpet and avoid tracking
- Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and artwook.
- If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop door open to help prevent odor.
- Wipe soot from metal kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances.
- Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first consulting your SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County Professional.
- Don't attempt to shampoo carpet, rugs or upholstered furniture without consultation.
- Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting with an authorized repair service.
If your home or business has been affected by fire, call SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County.
(219)947-9931
A Special Thank You To Our Hobart Firefighters
4/19/2021 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County we know that your business is your number 1 priority. Any type of damage to your business can be critical. Especially a fire. Not only does a fire destroy with its flames but the smoke and heat also are huge factors. Fire is not the only thing that destroys your business, the fire fighting materials will also do some major damage. Firefighters use water, powders and foam to put out the fire.
We are so very thankful for all of the first responders hard work and appreciate everything they do for us. They pave the way for us to come in and get you back into your business as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County is highly trained in fire and water cleanup and restoration. We understand that your business being affected by a fire will result in lost revenue and productivity. We will take care of you and your business and get you back to pre-fire condition
Fire Safety For Kids
9/10/2020 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County we care about the safety of your family. By sharing this information from the American Red Cross, we hope to shed some light on something we see too often, house fires.
A home fire is a devastating event, and one that you never count on happening. Your children are most at risk when this disaster occurs. Unfortunately, many home fires are started by children playing with dangerous household items – especially lighters and matches. Taking sensible precautions in the home and teaching your child how to escape from a fire can help your family avoid this type of heartbreak.
Prevent Your Child from Starting FiresThe U.S. Fire Administration estimates that $280 million in property is destroyed each year as the result of children playing with fire.
- Keep matches, lighters and other ignitable substances in a secured location out of your child’s reach. Only use lighters with child-resistant features.
- Invest in flameless candles. These candles contain a light bulb rather than an open flame, and take the danger out of your child knocking over a candle.
Fire Safety information from redcross.org
Important Fire Safety Tips
6/23/2020 (Permalink)
According to statistical data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in 2012 an estimated 1,375,500 res were responded to in the United States. These blazes caused 2,855 deaths and 16,500 civilian injuries while costing more than $12.4 billion in damage.
Though some fires are unavoidable acts of nature or unpredictable accidents, many fires in the home and workplace are avoidable. The following tips, courtesy of the NFPA, can help reduce the likelihood of a fire in your business or home.
1. Watch your cooking - Stay in the kitchen if you are frying, grilling or broiling food. Never allow young children around the stove or oven, especially if they are not closely attended.
2. Give space heaters space - Keep space heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn.
3. Smoke outside - If you must smoke inside, have a sturdy, deep ashtray. Never smoke in bed.
4. Keep matches and lighters out of reach - Keep matches and lighters in high cabinets, preferably under a child lock.
5. Inspect electrical cords - Replace cords that are cracked, damaged, have broken plugs or have loose connections.
6. Be careful when using candles - Keep candles at least one foot from anything that can burn. Blow them out before you leave the room or go to sleep.
7. Have a fire escape plan - Make a fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year.
8. Install smoke alarms - Install alarms on every level of your of ooffice or home and inside bedrooms. Interconnect them so they all sound at once.
9. Test smoke alarms - Test alarms once per month. Replace batteries once per year or as needed.
10. Install sprinklers - Sprinklers can help maintain and sometimes even extinguish fires, giving your local fire department a better chance of saving your property.
And always remember SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County is available 24/7. (219)947-9931
Who Do I Call AFTER a Fire?
6/23/2020 (Permalink)
After the fire trucks are gone, your home and belongings likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County has the specialized fire and water damage cleanup and restoration training and experience to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition. We also have specific training and equipment for odor removal and deep cleaning of upholstery and carpet.
Fire damage can be devastating for you and your family. Feelings of confusion and stress are common, and you need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We always treat your family with the greatest empathy and respect, and we’ll treat your property with great care.
Call SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County (219) 947-9931
Lake County Smoke and Soot Cleanup
6/3/2020 (Permalink)
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
- Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
- Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
- The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
- Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
- Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
- Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 947-9931
Emergency Fire Damage Tips
4/15/2020 (Permalink)
Nobody expects a fire in their home or business. But SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County wants to provide some quick tips that could prevent further damage to your property.
- Limit movement if possible
- Place dry towels or old linens on high traffic carpet areas to prevent more soiling
- If the electricity is off, make sure to empty the refrigerator and freezer and prop open
- Wipe soot from chrome on any faucets and appliances then wipe with a light coating of lubricant
- DO NOT attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without contacting SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County
- Do not shampoo carpet or furniture
- Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire or water without consulting a repair service.
Call SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County at 947-9931 if you experience a fire in your home of business
4th of July Safety Tips
6/14/2019 (Permalink)
With the 4th of July quickly approaching we wanted to increase awareness about fire safety and burn injuries. Every year, thousands of people are injured using consumer fireworks and they start an average of 18,500 fires resulting in property damage. All of us at SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County want you to enjoy your Independence Day, and we hope you do so SAFELY. Here are a few tips that we like to follow:
- Obey local laws
- Keep spectators a safe distance from the fireworks
- Make sure all fireworks are supervised by an adult
- Do not point or throw fireworks at another person
- Avoid lighting fireworks in a residential area
- Follow the directions on all fireworks
- NEVER use homemade fireworks
- Keep appropriate fire prevention tools on hand
- Use common sense
It is never too early to think about safety measures for your 4th of July celebration. These tips about holiday safety only scratch the surface, but you can learn more by visiting the National Council on Firework Safety.
Fire Damage? Call us.
6/14/2019 (Permalink)
If you experience a fire in your home or business, give us a call and we will help you immediately. SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County knows how devastating a fire can be, so here is a quick look at our process so you can have a little piece of mind before we start on your property.
SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County will contact you within one hour to arrange a technician or manager to come out for service.
Within four hours, our trained Professional will arrive to assess the damage or begin emergency mitigation services.
All questions and concerns will be addressed and our technician will review the damage site with you.
We will begin our pretesting process to see what we can restore. We want to save as much of property as possible.
Within eight business hours SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County will be in contact with your adjuster if a claim has been filed.
We will then clean and restore your contents and structure.
Once the work is complete, we will conduct a final walk through to help ensure you are 100% satisfied.
Fire Restoration Safety
6/10/2019 (Permalink)
After a fire, our technicians want to get to work right away to help get your home to its pre-fire condition. But safety for our technicians and anyone else that will be on site is our main concern. Safety hazards are present at every fire damage work site. We need to take safety concerns seriously and need to address them properly before starting. Every fire damage is different so our highly trained technicians will take time to identify and resolve safety hazards before proceeding with the project. Doing restoration work in fire-damaged buildings is potentially dangerous. Some hazards that call for technicians to exercise special precaution are:
- Electrical Hazards
- Fire-damaged work sites are frequently wet if water was used to extinguish the fire. Mixing water and electricity is extremely dangerous!
- Structural Hazards
- Fire often causes damage to the structure of the building. The technicians will be cautious of loose or falling debris.
- Slip, Trip, and Fall
- Slip or fall accidents are a common cause of injuries. These can be avoided by following some simple preventative measures.
SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County technicians are highly trained for fire restoration. They will plan ahead for a safe work process. This may take a little extra time and we appreciate your patience during this difficult situation.
Smoke Damage
6/3/2019 (Permalink)
A fire damage in your home is devastating. Whether it’s big or small, the smoke may damage a large part of your home and belongings. Smoke damage can do more damage than the actual fire. SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County technicians are highly trained in Fire Cleanup and Restoration. Performing fire damage restoration involves both removing the smoke residues and also deodorizing smoke odors. The odors in a smoke-damaged building will be considerably decreased once the affected materials are demolished and removed or cleaned. The actual cleaning and deodorization procedures will vary depending on whether the smoke residues are light, medium, or heavy. Our technicians will assess the situation and go from there. We want to make this fire damage like it never even happened.
If you have experienced a fire in your home, please call SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County at -219-947-9931.
We proudly serve Hobart, Lake Station, Gary, Merrillville, Crown Point and surrounding areas.
Fire Damage To Your Business
4/15/2019 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County we know that your business is your number 1 priority. Any type of damage to your business can be critical. Especially a fire. Not only does a fire destroy with its flames but the smoke and heat also are huge factors. Fire is not the only thing that destroys your business, the fire fighting materials will also do some major damage. Firefighters use water, powders and foam to put out the fire.
We are so very thankful for all of the first responders hard work and appreciate everything they do for us. They pave the way for us to come in and get you back into your business as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County is highly trained in fire and water cleanup and restoration. We understand that your business being affected by a fire will result in lost revenue and productivity. We will take care of you and your business and get you back to pre-fire condition.
Call Us For Fire Cleanup
6/15/2018 (Permalink)
Fire damage can be devastating to your home or business. Once the fire is out, your property will likely suffer from smoke damage along with water damage and flooding from the firefighter's hard work. That is where SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County come in. We use our specialized fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home. We will also remove the smoke odor and soot from upholstery and carpet.
SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County:
- 24/7 Emergency Service
- Fast Response Time
- Specialize in Fire and Water Damage Restoration
- Restore vs. Replace Mentality
- HIGHLY Trained Technicians
If your home or business is affected by a fire call us right away wo we can come out and get started!! 219-947-9931
Fire Safety For The Workplace
6/14/2018 (Permalink)
Running a successful business takes a lot of time and effort. SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County wants to make it a little easier for you! We want to give you a few tips for fire safety in your workplace. A little preparation can go a long way and save you a headache in the long run.
Here are a few fire safety tips for the workplace:
- Make sure your property has a clear and accessible escape route
- Have fire extinguishers available throughout the entire property
- Have your fire alarms tested regularly
- Make sure you fire extinguishers are replaced on a regular basis
Having a plan and being prepared can save your business!
And always make sure to call SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County if experience any fire or smoke damage in your business. We are available 24/7. 219-947-9931
Safety Tips To Prevent Kitchen Fires
6/4/2018 (Permalink)
Cooking fires are the most common cause of home fires. We see many fire damages that start in the kitchen. House fires are extremely dangerous to you and your family, so SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County wants to give you some tips to keep your family safe!
- Never leave your pan unattended-if you need to leave the kitchen, turn the burner off
- Turn your pot/pan handles toward the back of the stove-nobody can bump or pull on them
- Watch your clothes-get a well fitted apron and avoid loose clothing
- Be cautious of items around the stovetop-dish towels, oven mitts, and curtains can easily catch fire when near a hot burner
- Keep a pan lid or baking sheet close by-you can use it to cover a pan if it catches fire to put it out
- Keep a fire extinguisher near your kitchen-make sure you know how to use it
And always make sure to call SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County if experience any fire or smoke damage. We are available 24/7. 219-947-9931
We Know Fire Cleanup
4/24/2018 (Permalink)
We know that a fire is devastating. We know you want to start cleaning it up right away, but a house with any kind of fire damage is not safe to enter. So you need to leave the fire cleanup to the professionals of SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County.
Smoke and Ash that is left untreated can cause you problems down the road. It can cause permanent odors, corrosion, and discoloration. Soot can cause severe medical problems and possibly even death if inhaled. It is imperative to call a trained fire cleanup specialist. SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County can prevent further damage to your Lake County home! We are trained to make your fire damage, "Like it never even happened." So act quickly and call us right away!
(219) 947-9931
We Can Help After A Fire!
6/14/2017 (Permalink)
After the fire trucks are gone, your home and belongings likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County has the specialized fire and water damage cleanup and restoration training and experience to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition. We also have specific training and equipment for odor removal and deep cleaning of upholstery and carpet.
Fire damage can be devastating for you and your family. Feelings of confusion and stress are common, and you need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We always treat your family with the greatest empathy and respect, and we’ll treat your property with great care.
Call SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County (219) 947-9931
Fire Damage Emergency Tips
6/14/2017 (Permalink)
After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:
Is it safe to stay in the house?
Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!
Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (219) 947-9931
What To Do After A Fire
- Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
- Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
- Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
- If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
- Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
- Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
- Change HVAC filter.
- Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.
What NOT To Do After A Fire
- Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
- Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
- Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
- Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
- Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.
10 Key Fire Safety Tips
6/6/2017 (Permalink)
According to statistical data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in 2012 an estimated 1,375,500 res were responded to in the United States. These blazes caused 2,855 deaths and 16,500 civilian injuries while costing more than $12.4 billion in damage.
Though some fires are unavoidable acts of nature or unpredictable accidents, many fires in the home and workplace are avoidable. The following tips, courtesy of the NFPA, can help reduce the likelihood of a fire in your business or home.
1. Watch your cooking - Stay in the kitchen if you are frying, grilling or broiling food. Never allow young children around the stove or oven, especially if they are not closely attended.
2. Give space heaters space - Keep space heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn.
3. Smoke outside - If you must smoke inside, have a sturdy, deep ashtray. Never smoke in bed.
4. Keep matches and lighters out of reach - Keep matches and lighters in high cabinets, preferably under a child lock.
5. Inspect electrical cords - Replace cords that are cracked, damaged, have broken plugs or have loose connections.
6. Be careful when using candles - Keep candles at least one foot from anything that can burn. Blow them out before you leave the room or go to sleep.
7. Have a fire escape plan - Make a fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year.
8. Install smoke alarms - Install alarms on every level of your of ooffice or home and inside bedrooms. Interconnect them so they all sound at once.
9. Test smoke alarms - Test alarms once per month. Replace batteries once per year or as needed.
10. Install sprinklers - Sprinklers can help maintain and sometimes even extinguish fires, giving your local fire department a better chance of saving your property.
And always remember SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County is available 24/7. (219)947-9931
Smoke and Soot Odor Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Home.
4/21/2017 (Permalink)
Smoke and soot damage in a Crown Point, Indiana home.
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action in your Lake County home.
Smoke and soot facts:
Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Eastern Lake County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (219)947-9931