Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts
Microwave Safety Tips to Prevent Fire Damage: A Message from Your Local Durango SERVPRO® Team
1/2/2024 (Permalink)
Microwaves have become indispensable in simplifying our lives, offering convenience in defrosting and reheating meals. However, occasional malfunctions can lead to fire damage. Our local SERVPRO® team in Durango responds to fire damage emergencies, partnering with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to provide essential microwave safety tips for your home.
Microwave Safety Tips:
Purchase a Certified Microwave:
- Ensure your microwave oven is listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
- Complete and return the product registration card to stay informed about potential recalls.
Direct Wall Outlet Connection:
- Plug the microwave directly into the wall outlet, avoiding the use of extension cords.
Safe Placement:
- Ensure the microwave is at a safe height, within easy reach of all users.
Caution While Opening:
- Open food containers slowly, away from the face to prevent burns from hot steam or food.
Even Heating Awareness:
- Recognize that food heats unevenly in microwaves; stir and test before consuming or serving to children.
Avoid Microwaving Baby Bottles:
- Never heat a baby bottle in the microwave due to uneven heating that may cause hot pockets and result in burns. Opt for safer methods such as warming in a bowl of warm water or under a tap.
Call Us Today: When unfortunate fire damage occurs in your Durango home or business, our local SERVPRO® team is Here to Help.® Reach out to us today for swift and efficient restoration services.
Note: Franchises are independently owned and operated.
Microwave Safety Tips to Prevent Fire Damage: A Message from Your Local Durango SERVPRO® Team
1/2/2024 (Permalink)
Microwaves have become indispensable in simplifying our lives, offering convenience in defrosting and reheating meals. However, occasional malfunctions can lead to fire damage. Our local SERVPRO® team in Durango responds to fire damage emergencies, partnering with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to provide essential microwave safety tips for your home.
Microwave Safety Tips:
Purchase a Certified Microwave:
- Ensure your microwave oven is listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
- Complete and return the product registration card to stay informed about potential recalls.
Direct Wall Outlet Connection:
- Plug the microwave directly into the wall outlet, avoiding the use of extension cords.
Safe Placement:
- Ensure the microwave is at a safe height, within easy reach of all users.
Caution While Opening:
- Open food containers slowly, away from the face to prevent burns from hot steam or food.
Even Heating Awareness:
- Recognize that food heats unevenly in microwaves; stir and test before consuming or serving to children.
Avoid Microwaving Baby Bottles:
- Never heat a baby bottle in the microwave due to uneven heating that may cause hot pockets and result in burns. Opt for safer methods such as warming in a bowl of warm water or under a tap.
Call Us Today: When unfortunate fire damage occurs in your Durango home or business, our local SERVPRO® team is Here to Help.® Reach out to us today for swift and efficient restoration services.
Note: Franchises are independently owned and operated.
Fire Safety and Emergency Preparedness in Durango: Tips from Your Local SERVPRO® Team
1/2/2024 (Permalink)
In Durango, where fire damage emergencies are a yearly concern, our local SERVPRO® teams are always ready to respond. Understanding the leading causes of residential fires—cooking, heating equipment, electrical distribution and lighting equipment, intentional, and smoking materials—we emphasize the importance of fire escape planning. Here are crucial tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to help keep your Durango home safe.
Fire Escape Planning Tips:
Create a Home Escape Plan:
- Draw a map of your home, marking all doors and windows.
- Discuss the escape plan with everyone in your household.
Identify Two Ways Out:
- Know at least two ways out of every room, ensuring all doors and windows leading outside open easily.
Designate a Meeting Place:
- Establish a designated meeting place a safe distance from the house (e.g., tree, mailbox, light pole) where everyone should gather after evacuating.
Practice Regularly:
- Conduct home fire drills at night and during the day, practicing at least twice a year with all members of your household.
- Practice using different exit routes to enhance preparedness.
Teach Children to Escape:
- Educate children on how to escape on their own in case assistance is not immediately available.
Close Doors During Evacuation:
- Close doors behind you as you leave to help slow the spread of fire and smoke.
Call Us Today: When fire damage strikes your Durango home or business, remember that our local SERVPRO® team is Here to Help.® Contact us today for prompt and efficient restoration services. We'll work tirelessly to restore your property "Like it never even happened."
Fire damage near me, Fire damage in Durango Colorado, Fire damage restoration companies near me,
7/4/2022 (Permalink)
Fire damage and smoke damage occurred
Residential Fire damage and Commercial Fire Damage Restoration, and Smoke Damage, can occur at Any time.
Our SERVPRO of Durango, Colorado Team, can Solve this Problem for You.
In attached Picture, fire damage and Smoke Damage occurred. These incidents can lead to Secondary Damages, if not Inspected Properly.
***For an Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-259-6184
Our Services include Fire Water Mold Biohazard Termite Remediation and Reconstruction
If you suffer a disaster from Fire Damage, Smoke Damage, Soot Damage, Water Damage, Mold Remediation, and Moisture Damage/Dehumidification, call us right away at 970-259-6184
We are available 24/7, 365 days a year!
For more detailed information about our services, you can visit us on our Website:
https://www.SERVPROdurango.com/
Check out our many 5 Star Google Reviews:
https://g.co/kgs/PYvdfc
Certifications
- AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
- ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
- CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
- CMT - Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician
- CRT - Color Repair Technician
- ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
- FCT - Floor Care (Hard Surfaces) Technician
- FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
- HST - Health and safety Technician
- IICRC Certified Firm
- LCT - Leather Cleaning Technician
- MSI - Marble and Stone Inspector
- OCT - Odor Control Technician
- OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
- OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
- OSHA - Other Training
- RCT - Rug Cleaning Technician
- RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
- RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
- SMT - Stone, Masonry and Ceramic Tile Cleaning Technician
- UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
- WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
Affiliations
- American Red Cross Disaster Responder program
- Eco Friendly
- FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
- IICRC
- Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration
- Restoration Industry Association
Awards
- Certified Graduate Builder (CGB) Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) Graduate Master Builder (GMB)
- FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
- IICRC Applied Structural Drying
SERVPRO of Durango, Colorado
***For an Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-259-6184
Serving Durango, Colorado and Surrounding areas.
Tips For Removing Fire Damage
5/23/2022 (Permalink)
Removing Fire Damage - can be challenging, that's why you leave it to the experts
Fire can strike at a moment’s notice and cause a tremendous amount of damage. It can be devastating to deal with the aftermath but it’s important to know how to proceed if you want to handle restoration properly.
When it comes to removing fire damage Durango has been relying on one name for years. SERVPRO makes it our business to help you put the pieces together again and get back to enjoying life.
From local breweries to gourmet delights, there is plenty for foodies to love in Durango. At one time, Durango was known as the city with more restaurants per capita than San Francisco, which is no small feat.
Ska Brewing serves up local beers and the Durango Diner, located on historic Main Avenue, sells its Green Chili and Southwest Salsa in stores across the country. These are just a few of the many businesses that attract visitors and residents alike.
Unfortunately, even this beautiful part of the country isn’t immune to the devastation of fire, which is why SERVPRO stands ready with the latest techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to tackle any kind of fire damage.
When Fire Strikes Call The Professionals
Of course, the first and best tip whenever fire strikes is to always leave the repair and restoration to the professionals. It may be tempting to try and clean up on your own but if it’s not done right you could end up causing even more damage. At times like these, your first call should be to SERVPRO, the trusted name for removing fire damage Durango relies on.
We’re ready to answer your call 24/7 and we’ll send a technician to your location within four hours of that call to assess the extent of damage and write up a thorough plan for addressing it. Then, we’ll pre-test any damaged surfaces to determine whether they can be restored and make sure to explain everything to you at each step along the way so you know exactly what to expect.
We’ll begin the restoration by employing our professional training and equipment to remove soot, smoke and standing water, completely dry out any water damaged surfaces and thoroughly clean and sanitize everything.
We also use industrial air scrubbers and foggers to make sure the air is clean and breathable and we will perform a complete mold remediation
At SERVPRO our goal is always to make your property look “Like it never even happened”, which is why we go the extra mile by replacing drywall, painting, installing new carpeting and even rebuilding damaged rooms.
We’ll never sign off on a job until we know you’re satisfied. We’ll even work with you to you take a full inventory to help make the process of filing an insurance claim less stressful.
Restoring Your Property and Your Peace of Mind
When it comes to removing fire damage Durango is in good hands with SERVPRO. We don’t stop at restoring your property; we also want to restore your peace of mind.
As part of the local community ourselves, nothing is more important than reaching out to our neighbors and that’s why we treat every property as if it was our own.
With over 1,700 franchises nationwide and a reputation for professional quality work, SERVPRO is the name to turn to for fire damage cleanup and restoration. We have the training and equipment to handle the job and a caring response when you need it most.
Don’t face fire damage alone, call the professionals at SERVPRO and let us get you on the road to healing
When Does my Fire Extinguisher Expire?
5/20/2022 (Permalink)
Fire extinguishers do not last forever. No matter what type of fire extinguisher you have, the manufacturing date should be featured somewhere on the canister. It might be printed on the extinguisher label or stamped into the cylinder body. If you don't readily see a date stamp, check under the plastic ring around the neck of the extinguisher or beneath the rubber boot at the base of the cylinder. If the paint has obscured the numbers, remove it with emery cloth so you can read the date.
Different types of fire extinguishers exist. For example, those using compressed gas can progressively lose contents as their seals deteriorate, while those using ammonium phosphate can freeze over time, rendering the device useless. By asking this question, you're being proactive and putting your safety first, and the answers could be the difference between successfully reacting to an emergency and getting caught empty-handed.
Fighting Residential Fire Damage in Durango
5/17/2022 (Permalink)
Fire Damage can be a disaster but we can help get things back together
Nothing is quite as devastating as the aftermath of a fire. Seeing your home destroyed by smoke, soot and water can leave you reeling and unsure of where to turn for help.
When it comes to repairing residential fire damage Durango has been relying on the professionals of SERVPRO to provide support in their time of need. Residents here know that the key to repairing fire damage is acting quickly and using the right approach and nobody does that better than SERVPRO.
There’s no wonder why Durango is the most populous municipality in La Plata County. There is so much that this community has to offer, from its breathtaking natural beauty to its rich historic heritage.
It’s even attracted the attention of Hollywood, serving as the setting for more than 30 films over the years, including the iconic scene when Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid plunged into the waters of the Animas River off of nearby Baker’s Bridge.
With all of that natural beauty surrounding us, it’s hard to imagine the devastation of fire intruding but unfortunately it can sometimes happen. Those are the times when SERVPRO can make all the difference by responding faster to any disaster and helping to make you whole again.
Know What To Expect When Fire Strikes
Fire damage can take many forms and it’s important to understand them all so that you can be sure you’re taking the right approach to restoration.
The most obvious effect is from flames, which can reduce wood and other materials to cinders and weaken structural supports. Smoke permeates surfaces and leaves behind noxious odors.
As it sinks deeper under the surface it will require industrial strength cleaning materials and techniques to be completely removed. Soot can cover every exposed surface and even seep into the tiniest of cracks and crevices.
Even worse, it can also become airborne, making it a serious health concern if it’s inhaled.
While water is essential to help put the fire out, it can cause its own damage, from weakening already damaged structures to producing potentially hazardous mold infestation.
A thorough, professional restoration will address all of these potential sources of damage so that your property can be completely restored to its previous state.
Trust the Professionals of SERVPRO
When it comes to handling residential fire damage Durango has been relying on SERVPRO for years and with good reason. Not only do we have the training and equipment to handle any size job properly, but we’re also members of the community, so we go the extra mile to treat your property as if it were our own. That’s an approach you just can’t get anywhere else and it’s what makes us the name you can trust.
Our unique SERVPRO touch begins with your initial call. We have someone ready to answer 24/7 so that we can begin the restoration process as quickly as possible.
We’ll have someone at your location within four hours of that call to assess the damage and draw up a comprehensive plan of action and we’ll go over that plan with you, step by step, so you know exactly what to expect.
Next we’ll thoroughly pre-test all surfaces and items so we can determine what can be restored and what is damaged beyond repair.
We’ll employ the latest techniques using state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that your restoration job is done right.
Our technicians undergo extensive training and receive IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration) Certification so you know they’re prepared to handle any job. We make the extra effort to ensure that our technicians are properly trained so that you can rest easy knowing you’re getting the best possible service.
Using specialized equipment including industrial vacuums outfitted with HEPA filters, we can properly address any kind of damage.
We’ll clean away built up soot, remove hazardous odors from all sorts of surfaces, get rid of standing water, thoroughly dry all surfaces and perform a complete mold remediation.
We’ll even employ specialized techniques to treat everything from carpets, drapes and wallpaper to electronics, clothing and works of art. If there is anything that we deem unsalvageable we’ll put it aside for you to make a final decision.
We’ll never throw anything out without your permission. Once the work is done we’ll perform a complete walkthrough of the property with you to make sure you’re completely satisfied.
We understand how upsetting this process is for you and how important it is to get your life back to normal, which is why we won’t sign off on any job until we know you’re pleased with the results.
We’ll even help you to file an insurance claim so that you can get all the compensation you deserve.
We’re In This Together
As important as it is to treat each job professionally, we never want to lose sight of the human aspect of our job. As a local franchise, we are part of this community too and we understand the devastating effect that fires can have on the residents of Durango.
We would want our own property treated with care and we’ll do no less for our customers. Acting quickly and taking the proper steps to repair the damage is all part of the healing process and that’s what SERVPRO is all about.
When it comes to dealing with residential fire damage Durango and its residents are in good hands with SERVPRO.
We use professional grade equipment and employ specially trained technicians to help make your property look “like it never even happened”, so that you and your family can stop hurting and begin to heal.
At SERVPRO we are ready to respond faster to any disaster and we’re prepared to handle any job, large or small. When fire strikes, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.
Call on the one company with a national reputation and a local touch. SERVPRO is ready to respond and help you put the pieces of your life back together again.
Common Causes of Fires in your Cortez Home
3/8/2022 (Permalink)
House on fire
An accidental fire can ignite frightening unpredictability, spread uncontrollably in seconds, and decimate a home within minutes. House fires endanger everyone in the home, and even small fires that are put out quickly often result in thousands of dollars of damage. In all the leading causes of house fires in the U.S., property owners, manufacturers, and other parties can be liable if someone is injured or killed in a house fire.
List of the most common causes of house fires in the Durango
Heating Equipment
Space heaters can cause fires when placed too close to other items. Anything that is combustible or can catch fire should not be anywhere near a space heater. Space heaters should not be left unattended. Always follow the instructions on any heating device you use, and inspect it regularly to ensure it is in good condition.
Cooking
Cooking fires are among the most common house fires, causing around 49 percent of all residential fires.
Tools and food can catch on fire and spread quickly. If someone is not in the kitchen to extinguish the fire, it spreads rapidly through the house. Portable cooking appliances can also source fires, such as toasters and electric grills. Never leave these portable appliances unsupervised, and make sure they are cool to the touch before storing them away. Every kitchen should have a fire extinguisher that is rated for kitchen fires.
Smoking Materials
Smoking causes thousands of houses fires each year. House fires can start from a lit cigarette or a lighter. Accidentally fires from cigarette butts dropped on carpeting, furniture, or other flammable materials can quickly spread through the entire house. Smoking outside of the home is the most effective way to reduce the risk of house fires caused by smoking materials.
Christmas Tree Fires
Christmas tree fires are another leading cause of house fires. Christmas tree fires also caused about $14.8 million in property damage each year. Never leave Christmas tree lights plugged in when you are not at home or sleeping, no matter if the tree is natural or artificial. Also, the lights left turned on cause the tree to overheat and catch fire.
Appliances
Leaving appliances unattended and misusing appliances are also common causes of home appliance fires. Appliances result in thousands of houses fires each year. Fires started by an appliance can quickly spread to other rooms in the house. Defective appliances can cause a spark, which ignites a fire.
Candles
Candles should never be left unattended. Keep matches and lighters locked in a secure place if you have kids. You can reduce the risk of fires caused by candles by trimming the wicks each time you use the candle. Electric and battery-operated candles can also help reduce the risk of house fires caused by candles.
In the unfortunate event that a Residential building in the Durango area does catch fire, rest assured that SERVPRO of Durango is prepared to help clean up any fire damage the building/area has sustained. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 970-259-6184
What to Do After Fire in your Silverton House
3/8/2022 (Permalink)
kitchen after a fire
In 2020, fire departments in the United States responded to a fire every 23 seconds on average. Death in a fire occurs every two hours and 31 minutes. Even home fires that don’t result in death can cause injuries and leave thousands of dollars of damage behind.
SERVPRO of Durango understands that lives, cherished belongings, and memories are beyond priceless. It is natural to clean your property and get life back to normal. Quick action can be great, but improper or delayed action can risk restoration and cause even more damage.
Remember, SERVPRO of Durango is ready to assist you after a fire with fire damage restoration and help you get back to normal. Our number one priority is getting your home or business back to preloss condition as quickly as possible. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 970-259-6184
If you experience fire or smoke damage in your home, here are some steps you can follow until the SERVPRO team arrives.
- Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from embedded into upholstery and carpet.
- Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
- Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
- If electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator, and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
- Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
- If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
- Remove pets to a clean environment.
- Wash houseplants thoroughly.
- Change the HVAC filter but leave the system off until a trained professional check the system.
Taking Care Of Your Oily Rags This Summer
7/26/2021 (Permalink)
This innocent rag could add much unneeded stress to your household projects this summer.
The higher temperatures and clear weather make for a great time to work around the house or in the yard. Among these common activities, re-staining a deck is certainly one of them. Both easy and cost-effective, staining a deck is a great way to add to the look of your new paint job or revive a decades-old deck that has been through one too many Durango area winters. But what if staining your deck could lead to you losing everything you own? It's possible-- and those oily rags you have piled nearby could be the unlikely culprit.
Oil-based stains are very common and can be found in thousands of stores across the country. Though something that is so common, and under normal circumstances very safe, can also become a massive fire danger if not stored properly while working outside. These oily rags can auto-ignite if they become too hot, leaving your deck and the home it's attached to in danger of going up in flames. To help you make sure this never happens, here is a list of things you can do to keep your outdoor staining projects safe this summer:
1)Never store oily rags in a pile.
2)Store the rags in an airtight, metal container.
3) Always read the manufacturer's warnings on the product itself.
4) If you must set a rag down, never let it sit too long.
5)For disposal, always contact your local waste management before simply throwing the rags away.
In this situation, as in many others, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Do not wait until you have experienced a fire to take these easy steps and continue to enjoy your summer free of fire!
SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.
Please call us at 970-259-6184
Smoke Behavior
5/3/2021 (Permalink)
If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO® of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties to help make it “Like
The professionals of SERVPRO® of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, we will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and its contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows us to focus on saving your precious items.
We know smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following points are additional facts you may not know about smoke.
- Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
- Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
- The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Types of Smoke
- Wet Smoke. (Plastic and Rubber) Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, and smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
- Dry Smoke. (Paper and Wood) Fast-burning, high temperatures; heat rises, therefore smoke rises.
- Protein Fire Residue. (Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire) Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
- Fuel Oil Soot. (Furnace puff backs) While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners,
SERVPRO® franchise professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.
- Other Types. (Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue) Special loss situations require special care.
SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.
Please call us at 970-259-6184
What to do after the fire trucks leave
12/8/2020 (Permalink)
What to do when the fire trucks leave? It starts out as fire but after the truck leaves you really left with a lot of different types of damage.
Fire, water, soot and odor is left.
SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties is an expert in all of these areas of cleaning and more.
Here are some tips while waiting for help.
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 your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
- 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 the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
- Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.
SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.
Please call us at 970-259-6184
Dryer Machines Can Cause a Fire
12/8/2020 (Permalink)
It is essential to maintain a clothes dryer. The lint filter and dryer vents can be one of the most neglected areas we don't pay much attention to. Taking precautions to maintain the clothes dryer of your home or business can help prevent a catastrophe.
A few tips that can help prevent a fire in your dryer machine:
- Clean the lint screen often, lint can build up in the trap.
- Check the back of the dryer for lint buildup.
- Check for any damages to the venting system of the dryer.
- Dyer machines should be installed and maintained by a certified professional.
In the result of any fire or smoke damage, SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties is a phone call away. We are prepared to take the training and state of the art equipment we have to assist in the cleanup and restoration of a fire or smoke damaged home or business.
SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.
Please call us at 970-259-6184
Fire Safety - Preparing Your Children
7/27/2020 (Permalink)
Holding regular conversation with your children regarding fire safety is a great learning tool for both you and those young minds! Discussing the dangers of fire, how they can start and what to avoid that might accidentally cause a fire, are all great starting points. In school, your children practice fire drills; they learn what to listen for, where to go and how to exit the building safely. Practicing a fire drill at home can become part of your regular routine to ensure your children know how to detect a fire, and most importantly, how to get out safely.
Test your fire alarms monthly to make sure the batteries have not gone bad. This also familiarizes your children with the high-pitched noise or beep it makes, alerting them to a fire.
Create an exit plan – draw a map of your home for each child from their bedroom that takes them to the closest exit.
If you live in a home with multiple stories, consider a fire ladder that hangs from a window to help you escape. Store it in a visible location, and let everyone know where it is.
Children often want to re-enter a home during a fire if they’ve left a prized possession, pet or other cherished item. Teach and remind them to “get out, stay out”. Only professional firefighters should enter a building that is on fire.
Check windows for proper function. A window that is painted shut or unable to open could limit the number of exits your family has.
Teach and practice STOP, DROP and ROLL if your children’s clothes were to catch on fire this method could save their lives.
Fire education can certainly be fun, but more importantly, can save the lives of your family members. Never assume anyone in your home will know what to do in the event of an emergency. Hold a family meeting and organize your thoughts together, that way everyone is on the same page with the plan.
SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.
Please call us at 970-259-6184
3 Things You Should Throw Away After a House Fire
3/31/2020 (Permalink)
Dispose of all cosmetics after a fire
3 Things You Should Throw Away After a House Fire
One of the most difficult parts of recovering from a house fire in Pagosa Springs, CO is usually identifying things that can be salvaged versus those that need to be thrown away. Sentimental items can be hard to dispose of, and there’s always been the confusion about keeping or dumping canned foods.
Here are things you should throw away after a fire, no matter what:
- Perishable and non-perishable (canned) food
- Cosmetics
- Medications
- All Food That Remains After the Fire
When food gets exposed to high heat it can cause health problems, including respiratory issues and food poisoning. While that is obvious for anything that was in permeable packaging during the blaze, edibles that were in sealed jars and cans should also be tossed. The heat triggers bacterial contamination and gives the food a bad taste.
- Cosmetics
Dispose of all the cosmetics after a fire to avoid health implications. Heat changes the chemical composition in most of these products, increasing health risks when used. Heat-exposed creams run the risk of skin infection that can cost more than simply replacing the cosmetics. For that reason, do not use any beauty products or toiletries that survived the house fire, even if they have no signs of burns or soot damage.
- Medication
Medicines tend to lose potency after exposure to extreme heat. They can also get contaminated by firefighting chemicals and other products that might be near them. There may be no signs of fire damage or soot on the packaging, but many medications change their chemical form under hot conditions. That is why it is important to dispose of them and get all new prescriptions after a house fire.
Discarding items that survived the high heat situation might seem like a waste of money, especially after losing so much. However, using these items threatens your & your family’s well-being and your wallet as well.
SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.
Please call us at 970-259-6184
Backyard Fire Tips
8/1/2019 (Permalink)
Who doesn't love sitting outside in the summer and enjoying an outdoor fire?
Those lazy night of summer can be fun but don't get lazy when it comes to the fire.
When you are building a fire pit. Make sure it's downwind of your camp site or any backyard items.
ideally you should clear out a 10 foot radius of space around your pit. Make sure there isn't any tree limbs hanging down as well.
Before you build the fire make sure the weather conditions are in the safe zone. Dry, windy weather for example can be a bad time to have an outdoor fire.
When you have finished enjoying the fire make sure it's out. Even if the embers are gray it doesn't mean it's safe.
Pour water on the fire and then stir it with a shovel to test for any hot spots
Summertime is a great time to be lazy but not when it comes to the fire.
SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.
Please call us at 970-259-6184
What is Fire Legal Liability?
10/16/2018 (Permalink)
A common kitchen fire can be devastating. Call the professionals at SERVPRO to make it like it never even happened.
Liability is a legal term used to describe responsibility. Here, liability refers to who will pay for fire damage.
Fire damage liability is included in most commercial general liability policies. It’s required in most cases. However, these policies only pay if the business is at fault for the damage.
There are limitations to fire legal liability coverage. Limitations may include low coverage limits; limited or no coverage for damaged property contents; or no coverage for auxiliary damages (e.g., water damage), which is common after a fire.
Lease agreements can stipulate that tenants are responsible for fire-related property damage regardless of how the fire damage occurs.
In cases were limitations apply, business owners could be on the hook for the total or remaining costs to repair damaged property.
Depending on your business and coverage needs, getting the right insurance can make all the difference after a major property disaster.
Find the Right Coverage
Fire damage legal liability is often overlooked in commercial general liability policies. Moreover, depending on how much space is rented (e.g., one office or an entire building) will help inform how much coverage is needed.
Businesses and individuals renting commercial space should purchase a general policy that covers liability due to any type of negligence that results in a fire or causes damage to another’s property.
Moreover, lease agreements should be reviewed carefully. The insurance clause defines the rights and obligations of each party and who purchases insurance, what coverage is required, financial limits, and so on.
How Can a Company like SERVPRO Help?
It’s in the best interest of a landlord or tenant to contact a professional restoration company after a fire.
First, fire damage leaves behind contaminants like soot and smoke smells, which can result in irritation or respiratory issues for some people. A fire damage repair company will have the tools and experience required to clean, sanitize, and rebuild damaged property to like-new condition.
Second, fire-damaged properties are easy targets for criminals. Security features are often damaged or destroyed, leaving a property vulnerable to vandalism and theft. If the property is dangerous and someone gets injured, property owners could face further legal problems.
Securing the property is faster and easier with a professional restoration team. They’ll board up entrance points, provide on-site power if needed, and erect temporary fencing to secure a perimeter.
Lastly, documentation is very important following property damage of any kind. Fire-damage experts work with insurance companies regularly and know what they’re looking for when compiling damage reports.
In some cases, the insurance company will pressure claimants to use an insurance-preferred vendor for cleanup and restoration.
However, these vendors don’t work for you, they work for the insurance company. This can be problematic after major fire damage.
By selecting your own restoration company, property owners can ensure they’re being represented fairly and accurately.
SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.
Please call us at 970-259-6184
How to Deal With Smoke Odor in Your Durango Home
10/16/2018 (Permalink)
Need help dealing with smoke odor in your home? Perhaps you had a small fire in your kitchen, or some Christmas lights caught on fire and you are now left with a smoky smell inside your home. Well that is what I aim to help you out with, addressing the main points you need to know in effectively dealing with and eliminating smoke odor. Proper smoke odor removal will entail a combination of tactics including cleaning, deodorizing, and sealing of materials.
The 4 steps to removing smoke odor in your home are:
Step 1 – Remove any and all burnt materials from your home (or area you are trying to rid smoke smell from). So long as the source of the smell (in this case burnt materials) is present, you will have a difficult time removing the smoky odor. If burnt areas or items can’t be removed (such as structural materials) then you may need to apply a sealant to the area which will lock in the odors.
Step 2 – Install an AFD (air filtration device) unit with carbon activated filters. An AFD unit with a HEPA filter is not enough and will not be efficient at removing smoke odors. Make sure you are equipping the AFD unit with carbon filters as these are what will absorb and trap the gases and odors.
Step 3- Clean all affected areas. This means all areas near and around the fire incident, including the actual area the fire took place in (do not use any water or wet cleaning in this step). In this process you want to get rid of all surface soot and dusts, depending on the type of fire you could vacuum some of it away. After you have tried vacuuming the larger particles you should then do some dry-chem sponge cleaning (you should be able to pick up these up at your local Home-Depot). The sponge will absorb remaining soot and smoke (working almost like an eraser) as opposed to smearing them, which is what wet cleaning would do.
Step 4 – Spray Deodorizers to all smoke affected areas. In this step the aim is to penetrate the surface pores of affected areas with a deodorizing agent. You should be using a deodorizing agent geared towards smoke damage; Follow the instructions on how to mix up the chemical, get a spray bottle and spray all surfaces with it including walls and carpets (obviously do not spray it on water sensitive areas like electronics etc.) Let the solution sit and soak while it does its job. As the chemical dries you should be able to assess the situation and see if the smell is gone or if it needs another spray application. If this is not working effectively then it is likely because the fire was of a larger size and or higher heat, which may require a thermal fogging treatment. Thermal fogging replicates the heat like attributes of the fire which opens up the pores of building materials even more, however this should be reserved for the professionals.
There you have it, the 4 steps in dealing with smoke odors in your home. These steps should work well in situations where the severity of the smoke smell is low-medium. Again, for larger more severe type jobs you should be contracting a local property restoration company to take over the job and restore your home to its preloss condition.
SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm damage and restoration issue.
Please call us at 970-259-6184
Personal Possessions' Pack Out After Fire Damage in Durango
8/9/2018 (Permalink)
Durango Area Wildfires Can Damage Houses--Call SERVPRO for Cleanup and Restoration
Durango Homes Benefit from SERVPRO Professional Cleanup and Restoration Services After a House Fire
When a fire disaster affects your Durango home, three major types of property suffer damage. The structural components of your house include framing, walls, floors, ceilings, stairs, roof, windows, and doors. Fixtures are “fixed” or semi-permanently attached to one or more of the structural components. Examples are cabinets, carpeting, paneling, sinks, toilets, lighting, and so on. Usually, these two categories of property remain on-site after fire damage, and we use strategies to clean and restore them in place.
A vast number of other possessions in your Durango home show signs of soiling or charring after fire damage. Books, documents, clothing, toys, bedding, window coverings, furnishings, exercise equipment, electronics, small appliances, dishes, utensils, pots, and pans are just some of the items commonly exposed to fire residues. Most of the articles on this list can be moved out of your home during the restoration process. Assessment, cleaning, and restoration takes place at our production facility or elsewhere on your property, This benefits the efforts made by the crews charged with the responsibility of restoring the house, opening up space and reducing concerns about contaminating the movable objects during structural cleanup.
We inventory all items moved off-site with labels or barcodes, useful for both insurance and chain of custody purposes. SERVPRO production facility specialists review the damage and work with you and your carrier to sort personal property, assigning each piece to a cleaning and restoring technique or disposal if too damaged or unwanted.
Clothing and other washable or dry cleanable fabrics are cleaned following smoke contamination protocols. Handling this without the proper cleaners and methods can set the smoky odors permanently. SERVPRO employees use a broad range of strategies mastered during the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training to remove soot residues and tarnish without harming the underlying materials. The approach changes with the type of material and the degree of heat and damage.
Many of your possessions might also have water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO technicians are proficient in water damage remediation as well, extracting the moisture and setting up contained drying and deodorization chambers for efficiency and better success. Even papers and books have excellent outcomes with innovative techniques like a vacuum freeze-drying process. Salvaging documents are probably the most challenging recovery to achieve, but we strive for restoration whenever feasible.
After your home is ready, the cleaned, dried, sanitized, and deodorized items packed out are then returned. SERVPRO employees help move the articles to their rightful places, “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties is just a call away at (970) 259-6184. Contact us immediately after you have clearance to begin cleanup in your fire-damaged home. We have solutions for all aspects of the devastation.
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Why Hire Durango Fire Damage Specialists
7/30/2018 (Permalink)
Fire damage can be tricky to clean up and you may create more problems when you don't bring in the professionals immediately. Call SERVPRO right away.
SERVPRO Technicians Understand That You Have to Grasp How Different Materials Burn in Order to Cleanup Effectively After a Fire
It can be hard to invite a cleaning contractor into your Durango home if you pride yourself on handling your affairs. Some circumstances affecting your property are not advisable to clean up yourself, however, and fire damage is one of them for a variety of reasons. Engage our services for professional assistance to restore your home after a fire.
Fire damage in your Durango home is not comparable to any other catastrophe. Unlike the ordinary dust and food crumbs that have been seen when too long has gone between regular sweeping and vacuuming sessions, the residues left by fire are made up of incompletely combusted materials burned in flames. They range from food and grease to plastics, wiring, textiles, and wood, and many other substances. The material's composition changes at the molecular level during the fire. The soiling left behind is toxic and dangerous to disturb without specialized training or personal protective gear. Our fire damage teams have the equipment and the expertise needed.
The residues from a fire are also corrosive, quickly damaging the structural components and personal belongings in a home that survived the initial blaze. Speed is essential, as the damage is progressive and must be halted by cleaning and restoring techniques matched to the type of soot. Rapidly sorting, evaluating, and then choosing the correct strategy to clean every item and surface is a job requiring many hands. Even SERVPRO crews often decide to pack out some belongings to our production facility so that the home’s structure gets a thorough cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing without being sidetracked by the number of portable possessions also damaged.
You may believe that you save money and limit disturbance to your life by handling the cleanup yourself. The reality is that without training and experience it is unlikely that either vision happens. SERVPRO works with your insurance company, documenting the damage and the efforts made to recover your home and personal property, ensuring that your claims under your contract are paid. We emphasize restoration over disposal and replacement, a clearer path for us than a homeowner because of the familiarity we have with what can be accomplished with innovative methods and cutting-edge equipment.
SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties invest in efficient and adequate equipment and supports the continuous training of our technicians to carry out the fire damage restoration industry's best practices. Call (970) 259-6184 to schedule a consultation so we can show you what we can offer.
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Fire Investigation Assistance
10/5/2017 (Permalink)
A fire investigation team scours the remains of a home fire near Durango, Colorado to determine the source of the blaze.
SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties is often contracted to provide support services for private fire investigation teams.
After a large fire loss many questions need to be answered such as:
- What was the source of the fire?
- Were there any fire accelerants present?
- Was there negligence or arson activity?
- Was it a mechanical/structural issue or human error?
Local fire departments, private insurance companies, gas and power company representatives and many others are called upon to investigate the scene of the fire and do their best to answer these and many other questions. This process can take from a few days to several weeks.
SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties will set up a containment fence around the perimeter of the property and install any needed wind and/or erosion control barriers. We will bring on site portable restrooms and any heavy equipment such as excavators, backhoes and skid steers that are requested by the investigation team. We provide the investigators with a mobile office, generators for power, lights and computers, hard hats, gloves, respirators, eye protection, water, coffee and miscellaneous office supplies.
Providing the fire investigation team with all the resources necessary to accurately and quickly determine the cause of the fire, helps streamline the entire insurance claims process, ensuring the reconstruction is started sooner for the property owners, so they can get back to living Like It Never Even Happened.
SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties is here to help with all fire damage and remediation issues. Please call us anytime at 970-259-6184
How to Get Smoke Odor Out of Fabric
9/26/2017 (Permalink)
After experiencing a fire loss in your home, there may be a lingering smell of smoke, especially in any upholstery items. The harder, nonporous surfaces can have the smoke odors easily removed with simple, everyday cleaning solutions. However, removing smoke odors from more porous surfaces like fabric couches, rugs, draperies, and clothing becomes much more difficult. So, how does one remove these smoke odors from porous surfaces from your home?
The Baking Soda Method
Using baking soda to eliminate smoke odors seems to be a popular method. The idea is to sprinkle baking soda onto the surface and the baking soda will absorb the odors. While this may work with surface odors, this doesn't work well to get deep-seated smoke odors out of the foam cushions of sofas and the carpet pads under carpets.
Airing It Out
Another popular remedy to get the smoke out is to set the furniture or rug out in the fresh air. While this may work for a rug or thin fabric, it most likely won't help with thicker upholstery items like sofas and fabric furniture. Also, due to the chemical nature of smoke, airing it out won't cause the odorous smoke particles to break down and dissipate.
The Best Way to Remove Smoke Odor
If you are looking for the most effective way to remove smoke odor from fabrics and porous surfaces, then you will want to call a professional fire remediation company like SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Counties. We have specialized equipment, like our ozone generators, which are able to oxidize the particles residing in porous surfaces causing residual odor. An ozone generator creates a high level of ozone, which contains three atoms of oxygen, rather than the naturally occurring two atoms we normally breathe. Ozone is a powerful sterilizer, able to destroy the particulates in bacteria, viruses, and odors, utilizing its short life cycle and unstable composition. When the ozone is released into a contaminated environment, the odorous particles connect with the extra oxygen atom and, through oxidation, become completely destroyed and consumed, leaving only non-odorous (and breathable) oxygen behind. Our highly trained SERVPRO® technicians are certified and trained to safely operate all of our specialized mitigation equipment as well as utilize our industry specific cleaning products.
Please call today for any odor removal needs!
SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties
24/7/365 at 970-259-6184.
Fire Damage Essentials
9/25/2017 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan counties responds to commercial, multi-tenant and single family home fires.
When a fire loss occurs, immediate assistance from a profession fire damage restoration company is essential. Any delay in getting professional help could result in further damage and the need for costly repairs.
After a residential or commercial fire damage, the probability of further damage due to standing water or excessive moisture is higher. It is imperative that you protect your investment by acting fast to get professional help.
Smoke is a byproduct of fire and because it is acidic, it is capable of causing corrosion and staining of surfaces such as counters and walls. In some cases, there is extensive smoke and soot damage, which need to be addressed appropriately.
The methods used to extinguish fires in homes and businesses leads to excess water in the affected area. Fire cleanup professionals, like SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties, provide fast services for smoke and soot damage, as well as get rid of the lingering smoke smell.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:
- Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties
- Open all the windows to get air moving to decrease the smoke smell
- Move kids and pets to a smoke-free area. Move them to a relative's or friend's home until the fire cleanup or restoration is complete
- Inventory your belongings. Make a list of the contents of your home or business that need replacing. Taking pictures of the affected items or damage is a good idea. You will need these for insurance claims purposes, and for your own records.
THE INITIAL ASSESSMENT:
Fire cleanup professionals enter the property to conduct the necessary assessment and determine how to approach the situation. During the assessment, they will be able to provide an approximate estimate for the fire cleanup.
FILING THE INSURANCE CLAIM:
SERVPRO fire damage restoration teams can also help to you through the insurance claims process. They will be able to provide much needed communication and details about your home or commercial fire damage to your insurance adjuster. This gives you immediate access to money to pay for fire damage restoration services. They will answer your questions, address your concerns, and explain the entire process to you. They get everything taken care of so you can get back to your normal life.
WATER REMOVAL:
The most important step for remediation is removing all water left in the home or business. Standing water increases the risk of weakening the framing and support. Fire damage restoration professionals use state-of-the-art vacuums and high powered dryers to remove all water and moisture from the area.
ELIMINATING DAMAGED MATERIALS:
Our fire cleanup experts at SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Counties will remove all damaged materials and lingering smoke smell using appropriate protocol. They wear protective clothing and remove the materials prior to beginning the fire cleanup efforts. A thorough cleaning of all areas of your property affected by the fire, smoke damage, soot damage and any remaining smoke smell will be performed in order to make it Like it Never Even Happened.
REPUTABLE FIRE DAMAGE TEAM:
Dealing with a fire in your business or home is something most property owners have never had to experience. Restoration teams deal with this type of crisis often and know exactly how to handle the situation. It is crucial that a highly experienced and dedicated restoration team of professionals can get in quickly to provide the fire cleaning service. Experienced technicians have great expertise in mitigating the damage created after a fire.
SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan counties is here to help 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issues. Please call us at 970-259-6184.
Large Manufacturing Plant Fire in Mancos, CO
9/6/2017 (Permalink)
Large excavation equipment begin demolition after severe fire damage to a manufacturing plant in Mancos, Colorado.
No job is too big for SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties!
A large manufacturing plant in Mancos, CO recently suffered a devastating fire incident. No injuries were reported as 10 different fire departments within a 90-mile radius arrived to battle the blaze which continued to smolder for several weeks. The vast majority of structures were severely damaged and unsalvageable. Asbestos testing required by Colorado Reg 8 was performed and a licensed Asbestos Abatement Contractor was brought onsite to safely remove and dispose of all materials that tested positive. The site required full demolition and all scrap material/debris hauled off to be disposed of properly.
SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties was able to obtain all the proper permits and mobilize all the resources necessary to complete the project:
- Skilled Labor
- Heavy Equipment Operators
- Multiple Heavy Track Excavators
- Rock Crusher
- Large Trash Roll Offs
- Large Hauling Trucks
The SERVPRO team is taking care to recycle materials whenever possible. Steel beams, panels and production equipment are being hauled to a metal recycling company. The concrete foundations, floors and slabs will be crushed onsite into rubble for road base material to be used in future construction at the plant.
SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties is excited to take on this high-profile project and be a part of restoring the vitality of the Mancos, CO community after this catastrophic fire.
We will post additional Blogs with status updates as this large-scale project progresses.
We are here to help with any fire damage incident you may have. Please call us anytime at 970-259-6184.
Rescuing the Unsalvageable
7/1/2017 (Permalink)
The true hero from the recent fire in Pagosa being restored to its' loveable state!
In our busy lives, we easily become consumed in our daily routine, often losing sight of what is truly important. It can sometimes take a significant event to bring us back into focus. That is why SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co’s appreciate the moments that make us pause, allowing us to recognize how we can truly make a difference.
Recently, the town of Pagosa Springs suffered a major fire loss. This commercial structure housed a number of businesses, all of which were displaced—some temporarily closing, and some fortunately relocating other facilities. SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co’s were contacted to help with the clean-up. Initially, we were focused on the processes involved with the mitigation: from the numerous levels of asbestos testing, the required state approval before ANY movement of debris, to the coordination of the machinery and drivers needed to transport debris to the disposal site.
In the midst of this process, a man, Lee, approached the Owner of SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co’s saying that on that particular day, we were moving the debris where his office used to be. Lee explained that he was a counselor who worked mainly with children, and had an item of significance that he was hoping had survived the fire—a big stuffed bear that offered comfort and security as he guided these children through their troubles. Always more than willing to help, Owner, Keith Harlan, guided Lee through the debris field, digging in search of this much needed object. Eventually, the bear surfaced—covered in soot, black, dirty and far from the soft, white, fluffy bear it once was. Lee’s disappointment was evident, thinking it unsalvageable and soon to be discarded.
However, SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co’s always accepts a challenge and offered to bring the bear to our shop for some much needed TLC. Keith delivered the bear to our Content Specialist, Jennifer Nix, who went straight to work after hearing the story, excited to use some of her magic for such a special purpose. After some scrubbing with specialty SERVPRO cleaning products and a cycle through our commercial grade Esporta Wash System, the results were amazing!! We were honored to help restore this bear—contributing to the vital purpose of providing much needed love, support, and comfort in difficult times.
Thank you, Lee, for reminding us of what is truly important—it was our privilege to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
Call us today for whatever disaster that may happen – (970) 259-6184 – We are here to help!!
Smoke Alarms DO Save Lives in Southwest Colorado
9/23/2016 (Permalink)
Make sure YOUR smoke alarm is effectively operating on a regular basis!
Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives and, when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.*
The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house. Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.
Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees, or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation.
Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance. For more on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's.
- Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement
- Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance
- Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button
- Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm "chirps," the battery is low and should be replaced right away
- Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old
JUST THE FACTS:
- Three out of five fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or when the alarms are not working
- Smoke alarm failures usually result from missing, disconnected, or dead batteries
- More than one-third (37 percent) of home fire deaths result from fires in which no smoke alarms are present
- The risk of dying in a home fire is cut in half in homes with working smoke alarms
Even if a fire should occur in your Southwest Colorado home, call SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's for any assistance you may need - (970) 259-6184
*Statistics and tips provided by National Fire Prevention Association
Durango Area Smoke and Soot Cleanup
5/20/2016 (Permalink)
Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your La Plata County 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.
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 Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's 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 – (970) 259-6184
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