Recent Fire Damage Posts
Mitigating Fire Damage in Florida with SERVPRO Team Robertson
3/14/2024 (Permalink)
Florida residents face various fire risks, from electrical malfunctions to kitchen accidents. Despite the state's numerous benefits, fires can cause significant damage to homes. However, SERVPRO offers effective solutions to restore properties affected by fire damage swiftly and efficiently.
Fire Risks in Florida:
Florida's warm climate and frequent thunderstorms increase the likelihood of fires, especially during lightning strikes. Additionally, cooking accidents, faulty wiring, and outdoor grilling mishaps are common causes of house fires.
SERVPRO's Fire Damage Restoration:
SERVPRO specializes in fire damage restoration and responds promptly to minimize damage. Our trained professionals use advanced equipment and techniques to clean smoke residue, repair structural damage, and eliminate odors.
Making Fire Damage Disappear:
SERVPRO's goal is to restore homes and belongings to their pre-fire condition swiftly. Using specialized cleaning solutions and advanced deodorization methods, we ensure that fire damage is virtually undetectable.
SERVPRO Team Robertson provides prompt and professional fire damage restoration services to Florida homeowners. With our expertise, properties affected by fire damage can be restored quickly and efficiently. If you've experienced a fire, contact SERVPRO for swift restoration assistance.
Hire a Professional to Clean Up Fire Damage
3/6/2023 (Permalink)
It only takes a few seconds for a fire to wreak havoc on your in West Brevard, FL.
It only takes a few seconds for a fire to wreak havoc on a commercial property or home. The first thing you will want to do if there is a fire is call the fire department to extinguish the fire. Many people believe that they can re-enter the property and begin restoring it after a fire. However, there are still threats that linger for the property. Due to those threats, it is best to hire a professional West Brevard fire restoration company.
The Aftermath Of A Fire
Many people believe that once the fire has been put out, the danger is no longer present. However, fire leaves behind remnants that can cause serious damage to the property. The smoke and ash that is left behind cause discoloration, etching and an unpleasant odor. The building will be less likely to suffer those problems if you call SERVPRO of West Brevard.
The Sooner You Call, The Better
It is best to contact a fire restoration company, like SERVPRO, as soon as possible in order to restore the West Brevard fire damages. Ash is one of the major concerns. It can discolor just about anything that it comes in contact with. Discoloration can begin just a few hours after the fire. Fiberglass, plastic and other finishes can turn yellowish. Metals will start to tarnish. You will have to replace or refinish certain items in your home after a few days because the damage will be permanent.
Hiring A Fire Restoration Contractor
If you have hired a certified and trained professional from SERVPRO, then they will be at your home in a short amount of time. They will assess the home in order to see the type of damage that is done. They will also perform a thorough cleaning in order to remove the ash, smoke and West Brevard fire damage. Items that are beyond repair will be removed, and specialized cleaning supplies will be used to neutralize odors.
Do-it-yourself techniques typically do not remove the smoke and ash that is left behind by a fire. You may cause further damage and contamination to your home if the correct techniques are not used. That is it is best to contact SERVPRO so that they can perform fire damage restoration.
Locally Owned Company with National Resources
SERVPRO of West Brevard is locally owned and operated and we are proud to be part of this community. We are also part of a national network of over 1,650 Franchises with special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large-scale fire, water, and storm disasters.
Wildfire Danger Index
7/7/2022 (Permalink)
Wildfires are rapidly taking over our state of Florida. The lack of rain this spring is fueling wildfires across Florida, making 2017 fire season the most active fire season since 2011. So far this year over 2,000 wildfires have consumed more than 150,000 Florida acres.
With wildfires being so active, staying informed and being safe is of the up most importance. The state of Florida provides its’ residents with a Fire Danger Index (FDI), which is a continuous reference scale for estimating the potential for a fire to start and require suppression action on any given day. The Fire Danger Indices are classified as Low, Moderate, High, Very High, or Extreme, and represented by a color. Below is a description of each fire warning level and the specific actions that should be taken.
LOW: Green
(FDI: 0-11) Easy for fires to be controlled, and there is little to no risk for life or property damage. Monitor the situation for changes and know where to get additional information
MODERATE: Yellow
(FDI: 12-24) Fires can be controlled. Expect embers to blown away, which can cause small fires around main fire. It is unlikely for loss of life, and there will be minimal property damage. Be well prepared and to defend home in case of wind speed or direction change.
HIGH: Orange
(FDI: 25-49) Fires may be difficult to control. Embers will blow ahead of fire, causing tree tops to burn and spot fires that can be up to 2 km from main fire. Some home and business could be affected, but there is a low chance for loss of life or injuries. Only stay at your residents if you’re well prepared and can actively defend it.
VERY HIGH: Red
(FDI: 50-74) Fires will be uncontrollable, move quickly, and flames may exceed the tree tops. Embers will blow around and cause spot fires that can be up to 4 km from main fire. Buildings may be damaged or destroyed, and there is a chance for loss of life or injuries. For insured survival, leaving your residents early is the safest option. Only stay if you’re well prepared and you can actively defend your home.
EXTREME: Purple
(FDI: 75-100+) Fires will be uncontrollable, unpredictable, and fast-moving. Flames will be higher than the tree tops, and embers will be blowing by the thousands. Spot fires will be forming in all directions and fast-moving. Anything that comes in the path of the fire will be affected. Hundreds of homes and businesses will be destroyed. Leaving is the best and safest option for survival.
If you spot a forest fire, remain calm, go to the nearest telephone and dial 911 to report the fire as quickly as possible to your local fire department. Calmly tell the emergency dispatcher when and where you saw it. Stay on the telephone until the dispatcher tells you to hang up.
How To Safely Use Candles in Your Home
3/2/2022 (Permalink)
Candles can add a beautiful smell to a home, but you need to be careful.
While candles may be commonplace in homes across the country, they frequently cause house fires with an average of 23 home candle fires reported every day. Fortunately, there are many ways you can prevent a candle fire from ever occurring in your home.
Top Causes of Candles Fires
There are many reasons a candle fire can occur. One third of fires begin in bedrooms and the top three days they occur are Christmas, New Year’s Day, and New Year’s Eve. Those most common situations that lead to candle fires include:
Candles being left too close to flammable materials
Forgetting to extinguish candles before leaving the home
Leaving a candle burning while sleeping
What To Do if a Fire Starts
If a candle fire ever happens in your home in [City, State], you need to know how to properly extinguish it. When putting out a candle fire, you should never use water, which causes it to spread. If the wax inside the candle catches fire, grab a cover to remove oxygen from the candle. If the flames spread to other parts of your home and get out of control, quickly contact the fire department and evacuate your home. If any fire damage occurs or your home is need of smoke cleanup services, a fire damage cleanup company can help restore your home back to its original condition.
Candle Alternatives
The best way to prevent candles from causing a fire in your home is to keep them out of your house entirely. There are many candle alternatives to consider including:
Incense
Flameless candle
Essential oil diffuser
Wax warmer
Oil warmer
Stick diffuser
While candles are often used for giving off a warm, romantic light and an appealing aroma, they can cause a candle fire if used incorrectly. It is important to always use candles responsibly or to try out any of the candle alternatives listed in this guide. Visit https://www.SERVPROwestbrevard.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration for more information on fire loss.
Smoke Alarm Safety Tips
2/23/2022 (Permalink)
Smoke alarms are life savers, and these tips can help you.
Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, reduces the risk of fire injury in half. It is recommended that smoke alarms are installed in every bedroom on every level of the house. Business owners should ensure that their space is up to building codes and smoke detector requirements are met. If owners are unsure about the building, be sure to consult with your local Fire Marshall. It works the best when pairing the smoke alarms with a fire escape plan. In an emergency situation, a plan will allow your family, employees, or clients escape quickly and safely. Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance.
Tips for Smoke Alarms
- 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.
SERVPRO of West Brevard, is locally owned and operated so we are part of the Viera, Florida community,too. When you have a fire, flooding or water emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help.
As fire and water damage specialists, we have the experience, the expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property restored quickly and thoroughly.
Please call (321) 953-8600
Fire Survival Tips
2/3/2022 (Permalink)
This house fire started by leaving a candle unattended.
Fire preparedness is one of the most commonly overlooked aspects of disaster preparation. Preparation is key to minimize the size and speed in which a fire can grow, allowing time to escape or wait for the fire department to come to the rescue.
Did you know that if a fire starts in your home you may have as little as two minutes to escape?
Are you prepared in case a fire?
Here are safety tips that everyone sure know:
Preparation:
-Never leave heating appliances unattended in your home.
-Frequently check that all smoke alarms within your home are properly working.
- Take note of flammable items in and around your home.
- Remove pine needles, leaves, and broken branches from around your house.
- Pine shrubs can quickly catch on fire; so think carefully before planting them close to your house.
-During dry seasons, use your garden hose and spray the roof and side walls of your home.
-Store fuel away from your house and in approved containers.
-Learn basic firefighter skills by taking a fire course. This can prepare you to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to protect your family and home when fire disasters strike.
Escape:
-Obtain a complete floor plan of your residence.
-Identify all available exits, especially basements and attics.
-If there is an upstairs exit, make sure there are emergency ladders available and all windows/doors open easily.
-Plan several exit routes in case the fire does not allow you to use a certain exit.
-Identify a meeting location after you have exited the building.
- Once the escape routes are planned, test out the routes before an emergency and make sure they work efficiently.
Resources to extinguish fires:
ABC Fire Extinguishers – A popular active fire protection device to control small fires, not intended to be used in an out-of-control situation.
Fire Extinguisher Ball – A light weight ball that can be thrown into a fire causing it to self-activate releasing chemicals to suppress the fire.
Indian Pack - A portable water pouch with a hose, which can allow you to put out small brush or wildfires around your home.
Baking Soda- Use baking soda to smother a small fire before it can spread by sprinkling over the fire. This is great to use for grease fires.
Chimfex Fire Extinguisher - Fire suppressant used for chimneys and fireplaces.
Salvaging Items After a Fire
1/10/2022 (Permalink)
Fire damaged appliances and other Household items.
A fire can be life altering event potentially costing you and your family both financially and sentimentally valuable items. If a fire does occur in your home, you should immediately contact the IICRC-certified professionals at SERVPRO to handle the cleanup and restoration ensuring you can save as many items as possible. However, there are things that you can do to save some of your items.
Clothing
Sometimes it’s not the fire that causes damage to your clothes but smoke odor and soot. You can sometimes rid these from your clothes by washing them. If the clothes you’re looking to save can be bleached, you can use the formula of four to six teaspoons of trisodium phosphate that can be purchased at paint stores, one cup of Lysol or any other household chlorine bleach, and one gallon of warm water. To wash the clothes, mix this formula together well, add your clothes, rinse them with clean water, and dry them well.
To remove mildew from your clothes, wash the fresh stain with soap and water. Then rinse and dry in the sun. If the stain remains, use a mixture of lemon juice and salt or a diluted solution of household chlorine bleach to handle the stain.
Cooking Utensils
If smoke and soot causes damage to your pots, pans, flatware, or any other kitchen utensils, wash the items with soapy water. Rinse the items off then polish the copper and brass with a special polish, salt sprinkled on a piece of lemon, or salt sprinkled on a cloth saturated with vinegar.
Electrical Appliances
If any electrical appliances have been exposed to water or steam, refrain from using those appliances until you’re able to have a service representative to check them. This is especially important for electrical appliances. While wet appliances can cause electric shock, steam has the ability to remove the lubricant from some of the moving parts of the appliance.
If the fire department turned off your gas or electric in the process of extinguishing the fire, you should contact the electric or gas company to restore service rather than attempting to do so yourself. Often a licensed plumber or electrician must make the repairs before service can be restored.
Rugs and Carpets
If rugs or carpets have become wet during the process of extinguishing the fire, they should be allowed to dry thoroughly. For throw rugs that have become damaged by smoke or soot, you can clean them by beating, sweeping, or vacuuming and then shampooing. Once the rugs have been cleaned, they should be dried as quickly as possible by being laid flat and exposing them to a circulation of warm, dry air. Turning on fans and facing them toward the rugs will speed up the drying process. It’s important to remember that while the surface of the rug may seem dry, there’s usually moisture at the base of the tufts that can quickly cause the rug to rot.
Leather and Books
If you have leather items that have been damaged during the fire, wipe the leather down with a damp cloth. Then use a dry cloth to dry the leather. If the items in question are purses or shoes, stuff newspaper into them which will help the items retain their shape. Leave any suitcases open to allow to dry. To dry any leather items, do so away from heat and sun. Once they’re dry, clean them with saddle soap. For suede items, use steel wool or a suede brush on the items. For any leather or suede jackets, rinse the leather in cold water and then allow them to dry away from heat and sun.
For books that have been damaged by water during the extinguishing of the fire, dry them by placing them on end with the pages separated. After the pages dry, pile or press the books to prevent the pages from crinkling. To prevent mildew from forming on the books, alternate drying and pressing until the books are thoroughly dry. If the pages of the book are very damp, you can sprinkle cornstarch or talc between the pages to help the process along. Leave the pages be for several hours to allow it to work, then brush off the cornstarch or talc. Turning fans on the book will also help it to dry quicker.
Photographs
For many people, photographs are some of the most valuable items they own. Therefore, preserving these items are of the utmost importance following a fire, flood, or other disaster. If the photographs have not been destroyed by the fire, they can usually be saved. It might be tempting to attempt to peel the pages that have been stuck together apart but you should never do this. To separate photos that have been stuck together, soak them in clear, clean water and rinse carefully and thoroughly. Then let the stuck photographs separate on their own. It’s important to dry the photos quickly because if the photographs remain damp, mold could form and damage the photos.
If you suffer fire damage in your home, it’s imperative that you contact the IICRC-certified professionals at SERVPRO to clean up and remediate the structure. While they’ll fully restore your home, there are some items that you can restore yourself. These tips will help you to save some of your most valuable items.
4 Important Steps To Recovering From a Merritt Island Fire
11/26/2021 (Permalink)
If you have a fire incident in your home, time is of the essence when it comes to the fire damage restoration process.
If you have a fire incident in your home, time is of the essence when it comes to the fire damage restoration process. Certain steps should be taken immediately to prevent the damage from getting worse, and to lead you on a smooth and fast path to recovery.
Notify Your Insurance Provider
Because an insurance adjuster needs to assess the fire damage and take a valid inventory, contact your provider right away, and don't throw away any items, even if they seem beyond repair, until the adjuster has taken note of them.
Contact the Fire Damage Restoration Company
Merritt Island fire damage can spread to further areas of the house if not taken care of properly, so contact the fire restoration company as soon as you can. The company is open every day and can provide emergency services as well to ensure that your possessions are restored quickly from fire, vandalism, water, or smoke.
Water Removal
While you may breathe a sigh of relief once the firefighters water beats back the last flame, the unfortunate result is that you now have potential water damage on your hands. When soaked into flooring, furniture, walls and more, the moisture quickly turns into mold and mildew, as well as rusting appliances and rotting wood. A wet-dry vacuum, air-moving machine, or even just leaving your windows open can help alleviate some of the damage, but a water restoration company, like SERVPRO of West Brevard, will remove up to 95 percent. They use advanced extractor equipment without disturbing your possessions or lifting the carpet.
Odor Removal
Prolonged exposure to smoke can cause a variety of lung and health problems, and simply opening the window won't be effective in the long run. Smoke particles can cling to everything in your house: furniture, ceilings, walls, etc. One major smoke target is your HVAC system, especially the air ducts, which can release the particles back into your rooms long after the fire is gone. A professional company, like SERVPRO, is required to get rid of the odor, and they do so by using an ozone machine that breaks down all the smoke particles.
Final Thoughts
As a homeowner, you want what's best for your home. By utilizing Merritt Island fire damage restoration experts, you can rest assured that your home will be as close to its original pre-fire state as quickly and efficiently as possible.
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.
Fire Safety Equipment: Five Pieces You Need for Your Home
6/23/2021 (Permalink)
Our homes may be our sanctuaries, but they also present multiple opportunities for fire danger. An unattended stovetop can result in a kitchen fire, while electrical systems and appliances can overheat. Fireplaces, candles, flammable liquids, and outdoor grills — to name just a few — all add to the risk.
Having the correct fire safety equipment in your house is essential to keep your family safe and your home protected. This article highlights the five most important pieces of equipment needed to safeguard your home and loved ones. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re prepared is worth the time, effort, and expense involved.
Smoke Alarms
This is your first line of defense. According to the Red Cross, the National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) requires all new homes to have inter-connected hard-wired smoke alarms with battery backup. If you don’t have an interconnected system, battery-powered alarms are easily installed. Both types of alarms need to be located on every level of the home with one inside each bedroom.
Fire Extinguishers
Since most home fires start in the kitchen, you’ll want to put a fire extinguisher in there, at a minimum. But it’s recommended to place them in multiple locations around the house. Since extinguishers from various makers all work differently, it’s a good idea for the adults in the household to get training from the local fire department. Extinguishers should be installed near exits, away from heat sources, and up high enough that kids can’t reach them.
Sprinkler Systems
While a smoke alarm will detect smoke, an automatic sprinkler system gives you a way of dealing with flames immediately. While you’re waiting on the fire department to arrive, sprinklers can help slow a fire’s progress or can even douse it completely. Moreover, a sprinkler system can prevent deadly gases and smoke from affecting your family and could also extinguish a fire that breaks out while you’re away from home.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms
There’s a good reason carbon monoxide (CO) is called the “silent killer.” This deadly gas is invisible, odorless, and colorless and even a small amount can be fatal if inhaled for long enough. Install carbon monoxide alarms on each level of your home and outside bedrooms. If the alarm emits its high-pitched warning, get outside as quickly as possible or open windows and doors and take deep breaths of fresh air. CO poisoning can cause headaches, nausea, and tiredness and can be mistaken for flu.
Fire Escape Ladders
If your home has more than one floor, collapsible fire ladders should be a part of your fire-safety arsenal. Place a ladder where it’s easy to access in every upper-level room in case your evacuation route gets cut off by smoke or fire. Then, have the entire family rehearse the steps they would take to get the ladders out and attached to open windows.
No one wants to dwell on the possibility of their family being in danger or their home being consumed by flames, but this is one situation where being properly prepared could save lives and property. If you haven’t already done so, make an escape plan and go over it with your family. And check your homeowner’s insurance to make sure your policy is up to date with adequate coverage.
Heating Your Home
12/15/2020 (Permalink)
If you have a fire in your home, SERVPRO is there to help. But we also want to help you prevent fires in your home.
Did you know that heating equipment is the leading cause of home fire deaths, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)? Cold temperatures during these winter months have led to people frequently using their heaters. Half of these heating equipment fires predictably take place in the winter months of December, January, and February when heating equipment is used the most.
Abiding by the following safety measures will keep yourself and your family safe from any potential dangers of using heaters in your home.
Stay Three Feet Away
One way to stay safe when heating your home is to keep flammable items at least three feet away from heating equipment. That includes a furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.
Enforce a Three-Foot Rule for Children
The curiosity of children can cause a problem if they focus their attention on one of these heating options. Wanting to explore the equipment, the child could accidentally catch on fire or start a fire in the house. Therefore it’s a good idea to have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around all open fires and space heaters.
Don’t Use Your Oven As a Heater
Never attempt to use your oven to heat your home. The inefficacy of an oven as it pertains to heating could cause it to go out or not burn well which could potentially lead to carbon monoxide poisoning endangering the lives of your whole family.
Use Only Qualified Professionals When Installing Heating Equipment
Make sure a qualified professional install your heating equipment. An inexperienced person installing your space heater, water heater, or central heating equipment could lead to serious mistakes that could potentially cause a fire. Hiring qualified professionals will ensure that the person installing your equipment adheres to local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
Get Your Annual Chimney Inspection
It’s important to have your heating equipment or chimney cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional. In early 2000, the NFPA set a new standard that ensures that inspections include a thorough inspection and cleaning. Based on the purpose of the inspection (annual inspection, system change or real estate transaction, potential hazard) the inspector will inspect on one of three levels. The thoroughness of the inspection will increase at each level of the inspection.
Never Leave Portable Heaters On When Leaving a Room
Always turn off and unplug portable heaters when leaving a room or going to bed. Portable heaters can short out while you’re away and start a fire before you return.
Make Sure to Use Correct Fuel
Use the right kind of fuel when using fuel-burning space heaters. The manufacturer will specify which fuel that specific space heater will need. Using the wrong kind of fuel could cause the fuel to burn hotter than the equipment was designed for and could cause a fire in your home.
Use a Fireplace Screen
It’s important to make sure that your fireplace has a screen in front of it. Without a screen, sparks could fly into the room and start a fire. Also, if you plan to dispose of ashes in a metal container, ashes should be cooled prior to entering a metal container. The container should also be kept a safe distance away from your home.
Test Smoke Alarms Monthly
If a fire starts in your home in Viera, FL, a smoke alarm can save your life. Smoke spreads quickly and a properly working smoke alarm will give you enough time to get out. So make sure you test your smoke alarms each month. Also, make sure to replace your smoke detectors once every ten years.
Use Ventilation
When burning anything larger than a candle, make sure to provide good ventilation. You can do this by opening windows, doors, or fireplace fumes. Good ventilation will substantially reduce the amount of smoke that can be harmful to those in the home.
On cold days heating is a must. But without the use of certain precautions, it can be a very dangerous decision. By following the safety measures highlighted by the NFPA, you can ensure that you will be warm and safe during the cold winter months.
#heatersafety #spaceheater #righttempforhome #heatertips #SERVPROofwestbrevard
Preventing Christmas Tree Fires
12/2/2020 (Permalink)
Christmas is just around the corner and many people love having a Christmas tree up.
But did you know?
- Between 2013-2017, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 160 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. These fires caused an average of three deaths, 15 injuries, and $10 million in direct property damage annually.
- On average, one of every 52 reported home fires that began with a Christmas tree resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 135 total reported home fires.
- Electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in 44% of home Christmas tree fires.
- In one-quarter (25%) of the Christmas tree fires, some type of heat sources, such as a candle or equipment, were too close to the tree.
- One-fifth (21%) of Christmas tree fires were intentional.
- Roughly three-quarters of Christmas tree fires occurred in December or January.
- Two of every five (39%) home Christmas tree fires started in the living room.
A live Christmas tree burn conducted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) shows just how quickly a dried-out Christmas tree fire burns, with flashover occurring in less than one minute, as compared to a well-watered tree, which burns at a much slower rate.
Holiday decorations
- U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 780 home structure fires per year that began with decorations, excluding Christmas trees, in 2013-2017. These fires caused an annual average of three civilian fire deaths, 34 civilian fire injuries, and $12 million in direct property damage.
- Nine percent of decoration fires were intentional.
- The decoration was too close to a heat source such as a candle or equipment in more than two of every five (44%) fires.
- One-fifth (21%) of the decoration fires started in the kitchen. Sixteen percent started in the living room, family room or den.
- One-fifth (20%) of the home decoration fires occurred in December.
Candles
- On average, 22 home candle fires were reported each day between 2013-2017.
- Three of every five (60%) candle fires started when something that could burn, such as furniture, mattresses or bedding, curtains, or decorations, was too close to the candle.
- Candle fires peak in December. January ranked second. Eighteen percent of December candle fires started in the living room and 8% started in the dining room compared to 14% and 3% for those areas during the rest of the year.
- The two peak days for candle fires were Christmas and Christmas Eve.
Holiday cooking
Fireworks
- Ten percent of fireworks fires occur during the period from December 30 through January 3, with the peak on New Year's Day.
National Fire Protection Association - Christmas Fire Stats
Some tips on how to prevent a fire or damage during the holidays.
- Pick a fresh-looking tree.
- Keep the tree watered.
- Keep the tree away from heat.
- Shake the tree often to remove dried pines.
- Check the tree's lights look for burned bulbs.
- Turn off your tree's lights when sleeping or not at home.
- Get rid of your tree soon after the holidays.
We at SERVPRO of West Brevard are here to help.
#christmastreefire #christmaslightfire #electricalfire #holidayfire #SERVPROwestbrevard
Careful Frying that Turkey!
11/24/2020 (Permalink)
With Thanksgiving around the corner and spending time with our families, many people like to deep fry their turkeys. Did you know that each year there are over 15 million dollars in loss due to fires caused by turkey deep fryers?
Some Tips:
- Always check your fire extinguisher and make sure it is up to date and full. Keep the fryer at least 10 feet from your home.
- Make sure the turkey is thawed and there are no ice crystals.
- Make use of the propane tank that is far from the fryer.
- Have your phone handy and charged in case of emergency.
- If you have a fire happen, Call 911.
- Use extinguisher if possible.
After the fire is out, check your damages and call SERVPRO of West Brevard and our professional teams will be available 24/7.
https://youtu.be/WF9Y0PYiuFI
Is your dryer vent clean?
11/9/2020 (Permalink)
Outside dryer vent full of lint!
So, what are the signs your vent needs cleaning?
As a homeowner in West Brevard, you're probably very diligent about fire safety. You may have a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors on every floor, but have you checked your dryer vent lately? Many homes are damaged each year as the result of a lint fire. If the vent isn't cleaned out regularly, a dryer fire can result.
- Clothes Are Taking Too Long To Dry
If your vent is blocked, your clothes can take up to two or three times as long to dry. You may find that the clothes you put in for a regular drying time are still a little damp when the cycle is over. This is happening because the blocked vent isn't allowing the moisture to be released to the outside.
- Hot Dryer and Clothes
A blocked vent can also cause excess heat. If your laundry feels unusually hot when you take it out, and the outside of the dryer feels very hot when you touch it, this could be the problem.
- Burning Smell
If you smell something burning inside the dryer, that's a sure sign of trouble. The drum casing, exhaust tube, and trap can get clogged, which makes it easy for a lint fire to start. If you're smelling smoke, turn off the dryer immediately and call a professional right away to inspect it.
- No Regular Inspections
Your dryer vent should be inspected at least once a year by a vent cleaning specialist. A do-it-yourself job is certainly an option, but hiring a professional can ensure that the job is done thoroughly. These technicians are well acquainted with all the various brands of dryers and have the proper equipment to efficiently clean out the vent.
A lint fire can be a dangerous situation and cause a great deal of damage. But you can easily prevent a fire from happening by looking out for the signs outlined above.
#ventfires #dryerfire #SERVPROfirecleanup
Home Electrical Fires
9/21/2020 (Permalink)
Melted plug caused by faulty wiring.
When a fire in a home happens we always blame it on a item we forgot to turn off. Did you know most of the time that is not the case. Here are some facts about home electrical fires.
Electrical Fire Facts
- In 2014-2018, electrical distribution or lighting equipment, such as wiring, lighting, cords, and plugs, was involved in an estimated average of roughly 34,000 (10%) reported home structure fires per year. These incidents caused an average of 470 (18%) civilian deaths, 1,100 civilian injuries (10%), and $1.4 billion (19%) in direct property damage annually.
- Electrical distribution or lighting equipment ranked first in direct property damage, and third among the major fire causes in the number of home fires, fourth in home fire deaths, and tied for third in home fire injuries.
- Wiring and related equipment accounted for 7 percent of all home fires and nine percent of all home fire deaths.
- Cords or plugs were involved in only one percent of home fires but seven percent of the deaths. Extension cords dominated the cord or plug category.
Source: NFPA's Applied Research Department
NFPA- Fire Prevention
If you had a home electrical fire call SERVPRO of West Brevard.
Our professional teams can help you feel "Like it never even happened."
#SERVPROofWestBrevard #electricalfirefacts #nfpa #firecleanupandrestoration
4 Steps To Take After a Fire
6/23/2020 (Permalink)
Contact a professional restoration service in your area
4 Steps To Take After a Fire
After a fire, your South Patrick, FL, home will likely require fire restoration to return it to its previous condition. If you have homeowners or renters insurance, this process will often be covered by your policy. Here are a few things you should do after a fire to ensure that the claims process goes well.
1. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the first things you should do after any damage to your home occurs is to call your insurance agent. Contacting him or her right away will allow you to get the process started quickly. Because a fire insurance claim may take a while, you will want to begin as soon as possible.
2. Contact a Professional Restoration Service
In some cases, your insurance company or agent may give you a list of restoration services that they recommend. You should arrange to have these professionals come in as soon as you can. They will perform smoke cleaning as well as any necessary repairs to the building. They may be able to salvage some of your damaged belongings as well.
3. Take Photos of Affected Areas and Belongings
While you are waiting for the fire restoration company, it is a good idea to take pictures of any areas of your home that have been damaged in the fire. The insurance company will use these to help determine the amount of your claim. The restoration company may also take pictures before they begin working.
4. Prevent Further Damage
Sometimes, your insurance company will require remediation to prevent damage from worsening. You can start on this before the professionals arrive, moving smaller items to safer locations and blocking off areas that haven’t been affected. The restoration company, however, will include mitigation and remediation in their services.
Because fire restoration can be a lengthy and costly process, you should do what you can to ensure your insurance company approves your claim. Acting quickly and contacting them right away is a good place to start.
When Do You Need To Clean Your Dryer Vent?
6/23/2020 (Permalink)
A lint fire can be a dangerous situation and cause a great deal of damage
So, What Are the Signs That Your Vent Needs Cleaning?
As a homeowner in West Brevard, you're probably very diligent about fire safety. You may have a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors on every floor, but have you checked your dryer vent lately? Many homes are damaged each year as the result of a lint fire. If the vent isn't cleaned out regularly, a dryer fire can result.
- Clothes Are Taking Too Long To Dry
If your vent is blocked, your clothes can take up to two or three times as long to dry. You may find that the clothes you put in for a regular drying time are still a little damp when the cycle is over. This is happening because the blocked vent isn't allowing the moisture to be released to the outside.
- Hot Dryer and Clothes
A blocked vent can also cause excess heat. If your laundry feels unusually hot when you take it out, and the outside of the dryer feels very hot when you touch it, this could be the problem.
- Burning Smell
If you smell something burning inside the dryer, that's a sure sign of trouble. The drum casing, exhaust tube, and trap can get clogged, which makes it easy for a lint fire to start. If you're smelling smoke, turn off the dryer immediately and call a professional right away to inspect it.
- No Regular Inspections
Your dryer vent should be inspected at least once a year by a vent cleaning specialist. A do-it-yourself job is certainly an option, but hiring a professional can ensure that the job is done thoroughly. These technicians are well acquainted with all the various brands of dryers and have the proper equipment to efficiently clean out the vent.
A lint fire can be a dangerous situation and cause a great deal of damage. But you can easily prevent a fire from happening by looking out for the signs outlined above.
Escaping a Fire
4/21/2020 (Permalink)
Causing more than 2,500 deaths and 12,600 injuries each year in the United States, house fires are extremely dangerous for those that are unprepared for the event. But they are preventable.
To be prepared should a fire occur in your home, it’s important to know what to do:
To ensure that your family remains safe throughout the ordeal.
It takes just two minutes for a fire to become life-threatening and just five minutes for a residence to become consumed by a fire. While the flames are what most people fear, that’s not what’s most dangerous as the heat and smoke do most of the damage. This is because the inhalation of extremely hot air can sear the lungs. A fire also has the ability to produce poisonous gases that can make you disoriented and drowsy making them all the more dangerous. In fact, the leading cause of fire deaths is asphyxiation which exceeds burns by a three to one ratio.
Preparing for a Fire
To make sure you’re prepared in the event of a fire, there are certain precautionary measures that must be taken to ensure your safety. The most important step is to create an evacuation plan for your family. Every second counts when a home is filling up with smoke so you need to know the fastest way out. Creating a plan and going over it with each member of your family will ensure that everyone can get out safely.
When developing your evacuation plan, make sure that you have two routes to escape each room in case one is blocked. Once your plan is formed, you should practice the plan at least twice a year. Being prepared for a potential fire means making sure that windows aren’t locked, screens can be taken out quickly, and that security bars can be opened. You should also have your family practice feeling around in the dark with their eyes closed replicating the environment they’ll be in if there’s a fire and teach the children not to hide from firefighters who are there to help.
The most important device to making sure you can safety escape a fire is a smoke alarm. Having working smoke alarms will significantly increase your chances of surviving the fire. To make sure that your smoke alarm will alert you of a fire in the home, test the batteries monthly, replace the batteries at least once a year, and replace the smoke alarm every eight to 10 years.
How to Escape a Fire
If a fire does occur in your home, you should escape the building as quickly as possible. However, there are some things you need to remember to safety evacuate. The first step is to get to the floor and crawl to the exit as heavy, toxic smoke and poisonous gases gather initially at the ceiling. When you get to a door, feel the doorknob and door before opening it. If either the doorknob or door is hot, you should leave it closed and go to your alternate way out. You should also leave the door closed if smoke is coming from around it. If you are able to open the door, do so slowly and be ready to shut it quickly should heavy smoke or fire be on the other side.
But what happens if you can’t get out? If the event occurs where you’re trapped in a room, cover the vents and cracks around any doors with cloth or tape to keep any smoke out. Then call the fire department and tell them where you are. You can use a light colored cloth or flashlight to get the attention of the firefighters. If you catch on fire yourself, simply stop, drop, and roll with your hands over your face to put yourself out.
What to Do After a Fire
If you’ve suffered a fire in your home rendering it uninhabitable and you have nowhere to go, contact your local disaster relief service like The Red Cross. If you have fire insurance, call the insurance company for details on protecting your property. You also should contact the professionals at SERVPRO of West Bevard to remediate the situation as soon as possible. The sooner they begin the restoration process, the more of your home and possessions will be salvaged.
A house fire is a devastating event that can lead to serious injury or death if you’re not properly prepared. These tips will ensure that you’re prepared for a fire and that you and your family can escape safely.
What Happens During a Fire Assessment?
1/22/2020 (Permalink)
Suffering a fire in your home is one of the most traumatic occurrences for a homeowner.
Suffering a fire in your Palm Shores, FL home is one of the most traumatic occurrences for a homeowner. You can potentially lose not only your home, but also your treasured possessions. To ensure that as many of your possessions can be saved as possible, you need to immediately contact the professionals at SERVPRO to restore the home.
The first step in restoring any home that has suffered from fire damage will be an inspection and fire assessment. This assessment is done often by both the insurance company and restoration company. They do an inspection to determine how severe the damage is and whether or not it is safe to reenter the home. For the restoration company, it will determine what materials and equipment they will need to begin the restoration process. There are three steps that take place during the fire assessment process; an inspection of outdoor damage, an inspection of indoor damage, then the restoration of the home.
Inspecting Outside Damage
The first step during the fire assessment process that will be taken is an inspection of the outside of the home. During this inspection, the professional inspectors will be looking for any melted objects, damaged chimneys, missing roof shingles, or any other damage that has occurred to the outside of the home. Depending on the severity of the fire, they may also take a look around any surrounding yards, take a closer look at the roof, and look at any other exterior surfaces that might have incurred damage during the fire. The purpose of this inspection is to see whether or not there is any damage from the outside that is in need of repair.
Inspecting Inside Damage
Once the inspector has surveyed outside for any exterior damage, they will move inside to see what damage has been incurred inside the home, likely where the fire occurred. During this part of the inspection, the inspector will walk through the building looking for any visible damage. The main areas that are inspected are the walls, roof, floors, ceilings, ducts, vents, bathtubs, windows, and sinks. Every room of the building must be inspected to make sure that all damage has been identified before the restoration process begins.
The main point of inspecting the inside of the house is to see what parts of the house are still intact and which parts of the house are falling apart due to the damage. During the inspection, the foundation, walls, and ceilings will be paid close attention as these are the parts of the home that can require the most significant restoration. This is because these parts of the house are largely responsible for the structural stability of the building.
Restoring the Home
Once the fire assessment has finished, the SERVPRO team will know the extent of the damage and what materials and equipment they need to complete the restoration process. The quicker the restoration of the building starts, the more of your possessions and the more of the building will be able to be restored.
One of the issues regarding fire damage restoration is water damage. When water is used to put out the fire, this creates water damage around the house. If the water is not properly cleaned up by professionals, mold and mildew are just some of the problems that can arise. By immediately performing fire and water restoration, the professionals from SERVPRO will be able to salvage most of what could be lost if much more time is wasted. In the end, the goal of the process is to minimize the possibility of there being further damage.
When a fire occurs in your Viera, FL home, it’s important to immediately call the professionals at SERVPRO to restore the building. With the damage caused by the fire and the water damage caused by the water that puts out the fire, time is of the essence to avoid even worse damage being caused. The first step in the fire restoration process is a fire assessment, where the team will examine the inside and outside of the home to see how much damage has been caused and what materials and equipment will be needed in order to fully restore the home. So if you suffer from a fire in your home, call the professionals at SERVPRO for a full restoration.
Restoring a Home After Smoke Damage
1/9/2020 (Permalink)
Fire and smoke damage can be devastating to your personal property and the structure of your home.
If you’ve suffered a fire in your South Patrick Shores, FL home, regardless of the size, you’ll have smoke damage to restore. If the fire was a small one, smoke may cause more damage than the fire itself. Letting this smoke damage sit for weeks, days, or even hours can leave irreparable effects.
Fire and smoke damage can be devastating to your personal property and the structure of your home. The only way you can minimize the damage to your home and property is to act quickly.
The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a globally recognized organization whose overall goal is to establish a higher standard within the industry. Firms such as SERVPRO that are certified by the IICRC provide faster and better service than those that are not certified.
If restoration is not done properly and efficiently, the cost of restoration will increase and the damages will escalate. Quickly hiring an IICRC certified company will give them the opportunity to stop and minimize the damage so that repairs can begin.
Based on how long you wait to bring in IICRC certified professionals and begin the clean up and restoration process, the permanent damage can be minimal or substantial. The following is what can happen based on how long you wait.
Within minutes of disaster
Once the fire has been put out, soot residue begins to settle into the property. Porous materials that have discolored due to the fire and smoke can become permanent. There are other discolored surfaces where the discoloration may be removed if the items are cleaned properly. But if not treated quickly, the acidic soot will begin to stain different surfaces throughout the house.
Within hours of disaster
If the damage done is not quickly attended to the damage will increase. Wood furniture may get to the point where it will require refinishing. Metal objects will begin to rust, pit, and corrode. Walls that have been painted will begin to yellow. Clothing that has been damaged can become permanently stained. And by this point, flooring may require either refinishing or possibly replacement.
Within weeks of disaster
If the damage goes untreated for weeks, the restoration will take longer and cost more than if it’s done the day of the fire. The prolonged soot exposure will permanently harm all surfaces of the home and become embedded in the fibers. At this point, replacing property may be your best or only option. And if the home is not properly restored, the structure may continue to deteriorate as time goes on.
If you would like to get a jump start on the cleaning process before the professionals arrive, the IICRC has suggestions.
Safety First
Cleaning up after fire or smoke damage can be dangerous if certain precautions are not taken. You shouldn’t enter the property without the proper work gloves and appropriate respiratory protection. Exposure to soot residue can cause respiratory distress in addition to other medical emergencies.
Use Box Fans
Once you’ve entered the property having taken the suggested safety precautions, open all the windows and put box fans in. This will force out the contaminated air or dust that may be inside that could cause medical problems. Opening the windows and putting box fans in them will allow for proper ventilation to prevent further smoke damage and will reduce the risk of injury to people in the home.
Clean Everything with Soap and Water
To get as much of the smoke and dust off objects around the house as possible, clean everything with soap and water. When doing this, start with the ceiling and work your way down to the floor. Make sure you get everything when scrubbing down the house including the inside of cabinets and cupboards.
Use High Efficiency Vacuum with HEPA
If you have a high efficiency vacuum cleaner with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA), use that on upholstery and carpeting. A good filtration system on a high efficiency vacuum will prevent soot from being blown back into the space you’ve already cleaned. If you have a high efficiency vacuum for this purpose, make sure to clean and charge the vacuum regularly.
Launder Washable Materials
To clean washable materials that have been damaged, use an alkaline cleaner which will neutralize the acid that is found in soot. Use this on materials such as bedding, clothes, curtains, and other washable materials. If you have fine materials that have been damaged, they should be professionally dry-cleaned by a dry-cleaner that has experience handling smoke damaged items.
Clean Exterior Walls
To clean the exterior walls and eaves of your home, use a water hose that is attached to a proper cleaner. This will agitate and loosen the soot that is stuck on it. If this isn’t done quickly after the damage has been done, the smoke damage will continue to worsen until it is removed.
Regardless of how large or small the damage is, you should have an IICRC certified technician that has the training and experience necessary to restore the property. If structural distortion or warping has occurred, you may need to call a general contractor. If you bring in an IICRC certified firm to handle the restoration in your Viera, FL home, most insurance companies will cover the cost of the restoration and you’ll pay less of a deductible.
How to Avoid a House Fire
1/9/2020 (Permalink)
A house fire can be a traumatizing event but there are ways to prevent them.
A house fire can be a devastating event for your home in Satellite Beach, FL. You could potentially lose many of your possessions in addition to your home. While it may seem that some of these fires are unavoidable, there are ways that you can prevent these events from occurring. These are six of the most common causes of house fires and how you can prevent them.
1. Candles
A NFPA study found that between 2012-2016, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 8,200 home structure fires that were started by candles per year. They stated that these fires caused an annual average of 80 deaths, 770 injuries and $264 million in direct property damage.
There are several causes of candle-related house fires. More than half of the fires that were started in the bedroom were because open flames were left too close to flammable items. Other causes of these fires include leaving the room unattended, someone playing with the candles, and the candle knocking over when someone or a pet bumps the table.
To avoid candle related house fires, keep any candles 12 inches away from any flammable items, never leave a candle lit in a child’s room or an unoccupied room, make sure the candle fits securely into the candle holder so it won’t tip over, and blow out any candles before leaving a room or going to sleep.
Smoking
According the NFPA, 17,600 house fires are a result of smoking. That’s resulted in 490 deaths and more than $516 million in property damage. In 2013, the NFPA found that there had been a 73 percent drop in smoking-related house fires from 2008-2011 mostly due to a decrease in the number of smokers. Also helping the drop in smoking-related house fires were new regulations creating non-flammable mattresses, clothing, and furnishings.
The causes of these types of fires are usually ashes or cigarette butts not being completely put out, smoking near a medical oxygen tank, or lacking attention to the cigarette due to falling asleep, drinking, or taking medication while the cigarette is lit.
To avoid causing a smoking-related house fire, smoke outside, use wide and sturdy ashtrays to catch all butts and ashes, and be aware of any cigarettes that may have fallen under furniture or between seat cushions. Also make sure that there are no lit butts that have fallen where they can’t be seen.
Electrical and Lighting
The NFPA reports that in 2011, approximately 47,700 house fires were caused by an electrical failure or malfunction of some sort. These types of fires resulted in 418 deaths, 1,570 injuries, and caused $1.4 billion worth of property damage.
Causes of electrical and lighting fires include equipment malfunction, an overloaded circuit or extension cord, an overheated light bulb, a space heater, a washer, and a dryer. Of all the fires caused by electrical and lighting between 2007-2011, 63 percent were due to wiring problems.
Ways that you can avoid starting an electrical or lighting fire include not overloading outlets or electrical cords, ensuring you’re using the right cords (inside cord for inside and heavy duty or outside cord for outside), not leaving Christmas equipment (lights and trees) on overnight or when you’re not home, and having an electrician perform an annual checkup on the home’s wiring.
Dryer and Washing Machines
The NFPA found that 16,800 house fires in 2010 were caused by dryers and washing machines resulting in more than $236 million worth of property damage. Of the fires started by dryers, 29 percent were caused by lint or dust and 28 percent were caused by clothing. For washer-related fires, 26 percent were caused by wire or cable insulation, 21 percent caused by appliance housing, and 15 percent were caused by the drive belt.
Tips to avoiding these types of fires include cleaning the lint screen frequently, ensure there are no leaks in the lines in gas or propane dryers, ensuring the dryer is vented to the outside of the house so that nothing blocks the vent pipe, clean the vent pipe and area where the screen is housed, and keep the area around the dryer free of combustible materials.
Lightning
The NFPA says that from 2007-2011, an average of 22,600 house fires were started annually from lightning. These fires are different than the others on this list as they were primarily started during the summer months of June, July, and August rather than December and January.
To avoid lightning-related fires, stay away from doors or windows during an electrical storm, don’t use corded electrical equipment during storms, unplug major electronics when lightning is close by, and avoid plumbing fixtures like sinks or baths during a thunderstorm.
Cooking
Nearly 40 percent of all house fires are started from cooking. That 156,000 house fires per year and they have caused $853 million worth of property damage. Two-thirds of these fires start due to food or other materials catching fire with 57 percent of these fires starting on a range and 16 percent of these fires being caused by an oven. These fires are typically started either when grease is left unattended or when frying something.
To prevent the possibility of a house fire when cooking, don’t leave your food unattended, don’t attempt to put out a grease fire with water instead putting a lid on the pan to smother it, keep flammable items away from the heat source, and make sure your smoke detectors work and there is a fire extinguisher nearby. If a fire occurs in the oven, shut the door and wait for it to extinguish itself.
A house fire in your Suntree, FL home can be a traumatizing event but there are ways to prevent them. By knowing what causes these fires and understanding safety measures, you can ensure you won’t suffer this fate. If you do suffer a house fire, call SERVPRO to remediate the problem.
Kitchen Cautions During the Holidays
12/12/2019 (Permalink)
Don't let the small task of staying attentive in the kitchen, take time away from spending joyful times with your friends and family this year.
Thanksgiving was the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve. Any idea what the leading cause of the fires could be? It’s leaving the cooking food unattended. (Source: National Fire Protection Association)
It’s important to be alert while cooking to prevent fires. Would you know what to do if a fire broke out in your kitchen?
If you have a cooking fire, consider the following safety protocol to help keep you and your family safe.
- Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
- Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
- For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
- If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
- Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smoother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stove top. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled
Your local SERVPRO of West Brevard wishes you a safe and happy holiday season.
Fireplace Safety Tips
12/12/2019 (Permalink)
The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make a difference between restoring versus replacing damaged property and personal belongings.
A warm fire sure can be cozy, especially on those cold Florida nights. We know as Floridians; those nights are numbered. Nonetheless, taking the time to know these 5 simple safety tips will help you and your family stay safe while keeping warm this Florida winter. Be safe this season with our fireplace safety tips.
- Burn only dry, split firewood. Avoid chemically treated wood.
- Install a chimney cap in your fireplace.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home or business.
- Close damper when fireplace is not in use.
- Schedule a yearly fireplace and chimney inspection.
About Our Fire Remediation Services
SERVPRO of West Brevard specializes in fire, smoke, and soot cleanup and restoration. Our technicians are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your fire problem quickly and safely. We service the residents of Melbourne, Suntree, Viera, and Rockledge. Don’t hesitate to contact our office staff if you have experienced a house fire, small or large. Schedule a Fire Assessment at 321-953-8600
5 Dangers of Deep Frying a Turkey
11/11/2019 (Permalink)
60% of house fire originate in the kitchen. Take every safety precaution while cooking, especially during the upcoming holidays around the corner.
A deep-fried turkey is delicious, but is it worth the risk? If you have seen any of the numerous videos of turkey fryer explosions and fires online, you may have asked yourself this question before. Running the risk of bodily injury or property damage is something to consider when menu planning this holiday season.
- Turkey fryers can easily tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.
- An overfilled cooking pot will cause cooking oil to spill when the turkey is put in, and a partially frozen turkey will cause cooking oil to splatter when put in the pot.
- Even a small amount of cooking oil spilling on a hot burner can cause a large fire.
- Without thermostat controls, deep fryers can overheat the oil to the point of starting a fire.
- The sides of the cooking pot, lid, and pot handles can get dangerously hot.
Best Practices for Safe Grilling
10/13/2019 (Permalink)
Cook at least ten feet away from a home, garage or vehicle
Grilling is one of the most enjoyable activities of the summer. It is also a great way to cook some of the tastiest food possible. Anytime you have a fire going with gas or charcoal it is important to follow a number of safety precautions. A grill fire is a real possibility. Quite frequently, grilling is done close to a home, and the danger is that if things get out of control the home can be affected too. If this happens in Satellite Beach, FL makes sure you know who to call in an emergency. After the fire is out, it may be a good idea to call in fire damage cleanup experts to get your home back in shape quickly.
Tips To Avoid a Barbecue Fire
With a few simple precautions, it should be relatively easy to avoid a grill fire. Most of these tips are basic common sense. Here are several good practices to follow when grilling:
- Set up the grill on stable, flat ground
- Cook at least ten feet away from home, garage, or vehicle
- Make sure no flammable materials are nearby
- Do not leave the grill unattended
- Do not allow children or pets to come near the grill when it is on
- Clean a buildup of oils or grease from the grill surface
It is also important to check that the hose and gas connections on the grill are in good shape. If a new tank has been installed, make sure there are no gas leaks. If you are using charcoal, take extra care with lighter fluid, and do not spray fluid on hot coats.
The Keys to a Fire Cleanup
A fire in the home can create soot damage and smoke damage that should be cleaned up by a professional company in Satellite Beach, FL. The company will have the knowledge and the equipment to bring your home back to good condition, and make a grill fire "Like it never even happened."
#preventbbqfire #bbqsafetytips #SERVPROsafetytips
3 Ways To Decorate With Fire-Safe Candle Alternatives
8/28/2019 (Permalink)
LED candles are a great alternative.
Candles are popular decorative home accents and lighting sources, but any open flame can increase the risk of a house fire. Find out about three ways to use candle alternatives to achieve the look you want while celebrating the holidays, serving dinner or considering new lighting solutions for your home in Viera, FL.
Walkway and Window Lighting
Flameless LED candles and interior and exterior lighting are ideal for accentuating windows or illuminating walkways around your home. Choose from battery-powered or solar-powered lighting solutions to achieve looks that might otherwise require open flames. LED lights are bright, efficient and much less likely to cause a fire than an unattended open flame on a windowsill with flammable blinds or curtains or in paper bags along the sidewalk or other paths.
Magical Lighting Effects
You’re probably familiar with string lighting from Christmas tree decorations, but did you know that these small, efficient lights are ideal candle alternatives for decorating inside and outside all year round. Add a special touch to bushes or trees for special events outdoors or use glow-in-the-dark decals or fairy lights to achieve decorative effects perfect for the bedroom of a child or teen.
Safely Spread Scents
There’s no need to sacrifice the scents you love for the sake of fire safety. If you’ve stocked up on your favorite fragrances in the form of wax candles with wicks, try a battery-powered or plug-in candle warmer to release the fragrance. Other home deodorization options include scented LED candles, reed diffusers and plug-in attachments.
From LED candles to string lighting and flameless scent diffusion methods, you can choose from a variety of candle alternatives. No matter how you have used candles to decorate in the past, you can find ways to achieve similar effects without the risk of starting a candle fire that calls for fire and smoke damage mitigation and restoration.
Avoiding Thanksgiving Kitchen Fires
11/15/2017 (Permalink)
Avoid kitchen fires this Thanksgiving by staying alert while cooking and knowing safety protocols if a fire does breakout.
Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. Cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and house injuries. The leading cause of fires in kitchens is unattended cooking.
Stay Alert While Cooking
- Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop.
- Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
- If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
- Keep anything that can catch fire away from the stovetop such as oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains.
Safety Protocols for Cooking Fires
- Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
- Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
- For an over fires, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
- If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
- Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires.
Locally Owned & Operated
SERVPRO of South Brevard is locally owned and operated so we are part of the Melbourne Beach, Florida community too. When you have a fire, flooding or water emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help.
As fire and water damage specialists, we have the experience, the expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property restored quickly and thoroughly. Please call (321) 953-8600
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