Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts
3 Tips to Create a Fire Escape Plan
9/16/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
Three Ideas for a Fire Escape Plan
An important part of your fire safety strategy is your fire escape plan. This is the measure that protects your employees from the dangers of a fire. Therefore, you must create a solid plan.
1. Identify Potential Hazards
Inspect your property and write down any potential hazards. These will include cooking areas like kitchens and microwaves. Look for overloaded power outlets. Take note of any mini-fridges or space heaters employees have brought in. Once you have identified these, you can make rules to limit their presence. For instance, you can ban non-essential cooking stations. You can also ban smoking on your property. Measures like this reduce your chances of a fire and your chances of having to call a remediation company.
2. Assign Emergency Roles and Responsibilities
A key aspect of any fire escape plan is to have certain employees in leadership roles. These people need to regularly attend the fire drills, lead others, and understand their responsibilities. The roles you must fill are the fire safety wardens, route guides, and floor monitors.
3. Make an Escape Plan
You can use an online template to start making a fire escape plan for your business in Midtown Mempis. Draw out each level of your building with possible routes, fire extinguishers, and first-aid kits. Be sure to include accessible routes as well. Include a meeting place that is a safe distance from your building. It must not be in the way of the fire department.
To keep your plan relevant, check your fire extinguishers regularly to make sure they are working. Also, make sure your first-aid kits are well stocked. If your building changes in any way, be sure to update your plans.
By following these tips to create an emergency escape plan, you are boosting your company's safety. This is because your employees will be prepared and able to get out of the building if a fire occurs.
Fall Brings Football and Fire Dangers
9/16/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
When fall hits, it’s football time in Midtown Memphis. Along with football, comes tailgating, cooking…and additional fire dangers.
While it might not be cool yet here in the heart of Midtown Memphis, cooler weather brings some unique fire risks. It’s worth taking the time now to learn how to protect yourself and your property.
Outdoor Fires
People like to spend more time outside in the fall after the oppressive heat of summer begins to fade. Favorite outdoor activities often involve hanging around a fire, whether it’s the grill or a fire pit.
Grilling and tailgating go together, so let’s discuss them both. The single largest cause of fire with grills involves excessive grease buildup. Regular cleaning of the grill will easily prevent fires from excessive grease.
Campfires and fire pits should also be a source of concern. Knowing where and how to build a campfire is as important as knowing how to put it out.
Use a match or lighter to set fire to dry leaves or twigs, then add dry wood and bigger sticks. Never use an accelerant like kerosene or lighter fluid.
Fires should be far away from buildings and other flammable objects. Make sure to extinguish your fire completely before leaving your campsite or fire pit. Slowly douse it with a bucket of water and make sure no embers remain—anything you leave behind can start up again with the right breeze.
Burning Leaves
After a long, hot Midtown Memphis summer, many homeowners look forward to cleaning their yards in the fall. This includes raking, and some will burn their leaves and other yard debris.
Open burning is legal in Midtown Memphis but don’t forget about the “open burning rules in Midtown Memphis
Space Heaters
Portable space heaters are one of the most frequent causes of home fires in fall and winter. While there may be no need for a heater yet here due to the outdoor temperatures, it’s worth mentioning in case ice-cold AC in the office has you reaching for a space heater.
Keep your heater away from anything flammable. Ensure it’s on a stable level surface and not near where any children may want to play. If possible, don’t use extension cords with heaters; plug them straight into the wall.
Obstacles for Efficient Fire Restoration in Midtown Memphis
9/15/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
These Factors Can Slow Fire Damage Restoration
Fire restoration requires many layers of cleaning and recovery. When occurring as part of a Large Loss project like the many office buildings in the city, several factors might produce immediate obstacles to restoration after a fire gets extinguished. Our SERVPRO team can overcome these hurdles to provide our efficient:
- Smoke damage remediation
- Odor removal
- Surface cleaning
- Water restoration
Damage to the Structure
Among the most significant obstacles to fire restoration in Midtown Memphis offices is damage to the structure. Bulk materials and compromised structural elements must often be cleared and discarded before the building's official fire restoration work can begin. To determine where controlled demolition might be needed, our SERVPRO production management reaches the residence and begins a thorough inspection of the structural elements for water, soot, and smoke damage.
Lingering Water Damages
Another concern that could slow fire cleanup getting started is overcoming water damage. Considerable volumes of water are used by firefighters and the sprinkler system of the office building to put out the flames. The extinguishment can leave behind pools of water, puddling, and other moisture pockets that must get addressed by our SERVPRO professionals before fire cleanup can start.
The Claim Approval Process
Sometimes, the condition of the building is not a factor but rather the pace of damage claim approval. Your insurance provider plays a direct role in green-lighting restoration work to begin, even when you have personally chosen SERVPRO to complete this work. While emergency services can start to prevent the situation from worsening, we must still coordinate with adjusters for the total recovery needs.
After a fire, you want to ensure that cleanup and restoration can happen as efficiently and quickly as possible. With our experience and fast response, we can provide mitigative strategies to help your office open its doors again. Call SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis at 901-454-4975
SERVPRO Gives Tips of How to Restore Fire Damage in Midtown Memphis
3/25/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
Guidelines on Handling Fire Damage in Your Slidell Home
A fire can start in your house because of inadequate wiring or electrical equipment with a frayed or loose cord. Dealing with a fire is devastating and emotionally draining. After such an incident, you must determine what to repair or replace. It hurts to sift through memories. Before making any move, you need to know the right steps to deal with fire and smoke damage.
After a fire damage in your Midtown Memphis property, the priority is returning it to its pre-accident condition quickly so you can start living normally again. You can enter your house after a fire marshal declares it is safe to do so, but beware of damaged structures that could be unstable such as stairs. Avoid leaning or putting your full weight on them. It is also crucial to wear heavy-duty gloves and respiratory protection before spending time in a fire-damaged house.
Taking images of the damages right away is also vital since they can help you and your insurance firm throughout the claims filing process. If possible, take pictures of the area where the fire started and all the affected structures and contents. It is also important to call SERVPRO franchise professionals to help you clean up your home. We offer emergency services. Our Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician (FSRT) can arrive at your property quickly when you contact us to begin the remediation process.
We assess the extent of destruction in a home by looking at how far the soot and smoke have traveled and note how badly the flames affected the walls, furniture, cabinets, and other items. By understanding the extent of the damage, our technicians can take the right steps to restore your fire damaged home.
Our technicians can prevent the destruction from worsening. For instance, if the fire burned a hole in your roof, rainwater could come through the ceiling. Our technicians can use roof tarps to prevent water from entering your property. Firefighting efforts may cause water damage to your house. The fire could also have created a pipe or water tank to burst. We can remove the water using equipment like:
Our SERVPRO technicians can also check for moisture in flooring, walls, carpeting, and your possessions using moisture meters and moisture sensors. We then can dry all items out effectively. Smoke and soot damage often causes a building to appear stained and dark. Our technicians can clean up the soot, dust, and smoke using feather dusters, vacuums, brushes, dry cleaning sponges or compressed air. We use these tools to produce friction that agitates and loosens smoke residues. We also have access to chemical cleaning additives known as counteractants, which break down smoke at the molecular level to eradicate the odor.
If a fire has occurred in your home, call SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis to help you with the clean-up efforts. We have the tools and expertise to deal with the destruction, making it appear “Like it never even happened.”
The types of smoke damages that can happen in your home
2/24/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
Some Midtown Memphis homeowners could not tell you what smoke damage can do to their homes, let alone what differences exist between various types of smoke after a fire near them. Our trained technicians have the expertise and the education to quickly access your property following a fire to make determinations such as the type of smoke damage to ensure the appropriate equipment is brought on site to restore the home quickly.
When it comes to understanding the difference between smoke types when you experience fire damage in your home won’t help you resolve the situation any quicker, but it can help to narrow it down for those experienced enough in restoration to make a significant difference fast.
Wet smoke damage produces considerable smoke, which can seep into fabrics, furniture, and other areas not directly impacted by the spread of the fire itself.
Dry smoke is often the opposite, with its cause coming from rapidly spreading fires burning at very high heat. The spread of this situation produces a thinner smoke and a powdery residue. While much of the unaffected surfaces can get cleaned with traditional solvents and detergents, these types of fires often require our SERVPRO professionals to utilize controlled demolition techniques to prepare the area for reconstruction.
Chimney Fire Damage in Midtown Memphis?
2/7/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
More fires happen in December, January, and February than at any other time of the year. SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis offers these heating equipment safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:
- Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional
- Never use your oven to heat your home
- Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters, or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions
- Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed
- Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel-burning space heaters
- Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
- Install wood-burning stoves following the manufacturer’s instructions or have a professional do the installation. All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
- Install and maintain CO alarms to avoid the risk of CO poisoning. If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not light the appliance. Leave home immediately and call your local fire department or gas company.
Call Us!
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis has a team of highly trained technicians on-call and ready to assist you with fire damage in Midtown Memphis . Call us today at 901-454-4975
Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.
Important Pet Fire Safety Tips
2/7/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
When discussing home fire safety plans most families talk about what to do and where to go as it relates to the humans in their family. This is extremely important, as the priority in the event of a fire is to get every family member out of the house as safely and quickly as possible. Establishing a family plan, and reviewing it at least twice a year, is critical to protecting your loved ones in a home fire. But what about your furry family members? Including your pets in your fire safety family plan is highly recommended.
We strongly advise for families to practice their fire escape plan and that should include pets as well. Before going over details, it is important to note that while protecting your pet is something that should be attempted, you should never delay escaping or put yourself or family members in danger in order to rescue a pet.
The American Red Cross has offered some valuable tips for pet fire safety in your home. According to the National Fire Protection Association, approximately 1,000 home fires are started accidentally by pets each year. Keep these tips in mind to prevent your pets from accidentally starting a home fire:
- Pay attention to stove knobs. We recommend covering them if leaving the house or removing them completely.
- When leaving the home, make sure that your younger pets are not near any hazards that could potentially start a fire.
- Never leave a pet unattended near an open flame.
- Be extra careful about candles. We recommend getting flameless candles for your home.
A home fire is one of the scariest things that a family can experience. While a fire is something that most people think will never happen in their home, being prepared is critical to keeping you and your loved ones safe. At SERVPRO, we have many years of experience in fire damage repair and restoration. Contact our office today for any and all fire damage restoration needs.
Fire damage?
2/7/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
The cause of these fires are primarily due to heating equipment such as space heaters. The different ways space heaters can cause a fire are:
- Lack of cleaning around space heaters and/or inside chimneys
- Placing heaters too close to combustibles
- Basic flaws in the design of the heater
- Leaks involving liquid or gas heaters
Here are some ways that you can help prevent winter fires and protect yourself and your family:
Turn off space heaters when leaving a room- Give space heaters at least 3 feet clearance all the way around from household items
- Clean around space heaters regularly, especially inside of the chimney
- Install smoke detectors
- Keep a fire extinguisher in your home and educate yourself on how to use it
Why let SERVPRO handle fire damage and odor control?
Because the longer that your home sits without restoration efforts, the more difficult it is to salvage your contents and materials. Even if some elements like your HVAC system, light fixtures, and appliances seem to be untouched, there could be soot deposits wreaking havoc.
- Once our Green Fleet arrives on the scene and the first responders give the green light for re-entry, our crew chief begins the assessment.
- All unsalvageable materials, contents, and charred debris gets safely disposed of.
- Water removal services and drying begin if any standing water or chemicals are present from fighting the fire.
- Controlled demolition gets done to replace any unsalvageable building materials with brand new materials.
- Meticulous cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing help wrap up the project, leaving your home like-new once again.
Unfortunately, even with precautions fires can still happen in your home. If you do suffer fire or smoke damage in your home, have no fear we are here to help! We have certified trained technicians that specialize in fire and smoke damage. Please call us, SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
How Does Smoke Impact Your Fire Damaged Memphis Home?
9/16/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
Certified Technicians at SERVPRO Efficiently Remediate Smoke and Smoke Residue Damage
A fire incident can potentially ruin your home. The fire can cause structural and cosmetic damage that takes a long time to restore. Apart from the flames, one of the most significant factors causing extensive damage is the smoke and soot during a fire.
The smoke residue adheres to the exposed surfaces of your home and causes discoloration and even structural damage. Understanding the behavior of smoke during a fire can help you understand the restoration process better. The temperature of the smoke itself and the temperature of the surrounding surfaces affects the extent of the fire damage.
The temperature of the smoke
Smoke rises away from the fire and is carried to different places by a process known as convection. Fire produces heat, and as a result, the air above the fire becomes hot, expands and becomes lighter. The lighter air moves up, and its place is taken by the denser cold air. The process generates air currents called convection currents. It is due to these currents that the smoke rises to the top.
Now, as the temperature of the air increases, the pressure it exerts against the surfaces increases as well. What it means is that hotter fires produce a hotter smoke that is forced against the surfaces. The smoke particles in such fires can go deeper into the surface pores and cause extensive damage. SERVPRO professionals understand the theory behind the smoke and design strategies accordingly.
The temperature of the surrounding surfaces
Hotter smoke moved toward colder surfaces. As the hot smoke migrates to the colder surfaces such as outside walls, closets, and unheated rooms, these are damaged the heaviest. It can be surprising to see how much smoke residue finds its way into drawers and closets. SERVPRO technicians can use multiple techniques to clean surfaces that are heavily damaged by smoke and soot.
A fire incident can be quite a traumatizing experience, but it is essential to seek professional help as soon as you can. Technicians have a better chance of successfully restoring your home if they can get to work before the damage becomes permanent.
Faster to Any Size Disaster in Midtown Memphis
9/16/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis has been responding to property damage emergencies in Memphis for many years. In this picture, you see a family room where the roof has collapsed due to water damage. When we arrived, we immediately assessed the situation and contacted the insurance adjuster. We tarped the roof to prevent further water damage and began the cleanup process. We bagged and removed all of the dirty and saturated insulation and the damaged drywall.
After the area was completely cleaned, we set up powerful air blowers and dryers to dry the area. We documented the drying process to ensure the area was restored to normal moisture levels. We supervised the repairs to the roof and managed the restoration through to completion.
We offer a full range of restoration services, including:
- Board Up
- Carpet Repair and Installation
- Document Drying
- Dry Cleaning
- Drywall Installation
- Drywall Removal
- Electronics Restoration
- Fine Art Restoration
- Furniture Restoration
- General Contracting
- HVAC Services
- Move Out
- Painting
- Portable Power
- Roof Tarp
- Scalable Resources
- Temporary Fencing
- Temporary Warehouse Space
- Tree Removal
Call Us Today!
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphishas a team of highly trained technicians with specialized training and experience to restore any residential or commercial property damage. Call us today at 901-454-4975 We’ll restore your property damage in Midtown Memphis , “Like it never even happened.”
Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.
Fire Damage and Your Home: How We Help
9/7/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
Fire damage affects the structure or your house and belongings. Here at SERVPRO, we understand that your family’s keepsakes, furniture, and belongings all contribute to what transforms a house to a home. Fire damage, including smoke and even soot, can quickly threaten your family’s belongings. That’s why we specialize in restoring contents damaged by fire, water, and mold. Our SERVPRO professionals have the necessary expertise to help you preserve the irreplaceable keepsakes, and save money by salvaging what items can be restored to their pre-fire states.
We use any of the following methods for cleaning your home: dry or wet cleaning, foam cleaning, abrasive cleaning, and immersion cleaning. What’s more, if your home requires more intensive restoration and cleaning, our SERVPRO professionals can additionally help plan and conduct an efficiently organized move-out, and later move-in of the home. This can allow for additional protection from damage and a quicker remodel of the home. Our services are subjective to what your insurance coverage is.
Additionally, SERVPRO can restore your electronics damaged in a fire, as they pose serious hazards from acid containing smoke residues and corrosion. Electronics should be inspected and cleaned only by a qualified technician. Please Do Not attempt to operate any electrical device subject to fire damage.
Call SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis Today 901-454-4975
Why SERVPRO is the Top Pick for Fire Restoration
3/25/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
Why SERVPRO Is the Top Pick for Fire Restoration
SERVPRO differs from other fire restoration companies by embracing a philosophy of restoring, rather than replacing, a building damaged by fire. Their team can arrive immediately after a fire to begin work. SERVPRO’s fire damage Restoration service includes:
- Building inspection to assess the extent of the damage
- Board-up and tarp service to prevent further damage
- Water removal from firefighting efforts
- Elimination of smoke and soot
- Cleaning and sanitizing with industrial scrubbers
- Restoring and repairing the building to pre- fire damage.
At SERVPRO Midtown Memphis we are always available to help you keep your business fire safe. In the event of damages sustained from fire or water, we have the experience and know how to complete a cleanup project quickly and efficiently, getting you back to work as soon as possible.
Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Home or Office
2/26/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Midtown Memphis
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.
IICRC Certified Firms must
• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry
The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.
Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.
About SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Avoiding fire in your residential or commercial property
2/12/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Midtown Memphis
A fire in your residential or commercial property can spread quickly and become a deadly fire within a few minutes. Just a few precautions taken beforehand can protect you and your apartment.
* Inspection first: Take a good look around your home to make sure all potential hazards have been identified and eliminated.
1. Use surge protectors in place of overloaded circuits or extension cords
2. Appliance cords that are frayed or cracked are replaced immediately
3. No cords are being extended under rugs or between rooms.
4. Space heaters are not being used near flammable materials, such as furniture and drapery. Make sure your space heaters are always turned off when the room is empty or everyone is going to bed.
5. No matches or lighters are in reach of children.
6. Candles and incense are never left unattended- make sure these items are far away from curtains and other flammable materials.
*Kitchen Safety:
1. Never leave food cooking on your stove unattended
2. Keep towels and potholders away from cooking areas
3. Don't wear loosely fitted sleeves while cooking
* Smoke alarms
1. Make sure there are alarms in your apartment and that they are functioning correctly.
How fire smoke can impact your home or business
2/12/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Midtown Memphis
Fire can leave your home or business devastated. Even after the fire is extinguished, soot and smoke can leave it's mark as a reminder that there was a fire. This is why it is vital that you work with your insurance company and professional restoration company.
Soot is a black powdery substance that is produced when a fire does not completely burn. Soot attaches to surfaces leaving a dirty trail. Soot can have an impact on your HVAC system, which can recirculate into the air in your home or business.
The combination of water and smoke creates a wet black substance, which can be a challenge to clean. It may spread further creating more damages to your property.
The smell of smoke is not visible. It can be trapped in your furniture, draperies, clothes, and carpets.
If your property sustains smoke or soot damages from a fire, SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis is available 24/7 to help. Call today 901-454-4975
SERVPRO can restore your stuff
2/12/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Midtown Memphis
Having to deal with a fire at your home or business is bad enough. Seeing your belongings afterward can be devastating. SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis is here to help! We aren't magicians, but we can work some magic. We can't un-melt anything, however, we are restoration specialists.
Many things considered unsalvageable can be saved! At SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis, we take care of your property and your belongings. When necessary, we are trained and equipped to pack and transport your belongings to our facility for cleaning and storage while your property is being restored. Anything that we cannot save will be boxed and labeled for your inspection. All salvageable items will be returned to you "Like it never even happened."
3 Reasons to have Fire Insurance for your business
9/16/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Midtown Memphis
Three reasons you may want to consider
When you have a business in Memphis Tn, it is important to have fire insurance policy. This type of insurance may prove beneficial in several ways after an emergency. Here are three reasons you may want to consider.
1. Insurance May Cover Restoration Costs
In many cases, a fire restoration at a place of business can include a number of costs for both structural repairs, fire cleanup, content cleaning, document restoration, and any additional services that might be recovered. That can be a lot of services you may not have initially realized may be necessary. Commercial insurance takes these types of repairs into account and may include them under your plan.
2. Insurance May Recommend a Restoration Service
Another important aspect of fire insurance is the fact that in many cases they have preferred restoration service vendors they live to work with. These are usually certified professionals who may have a number of tools that allow them to communicate and work with your insurance provider. This means you won’t have to waste time looking for a trusted team, as your insurance agent may already have their number on file.
3. Insurance May Cover Secondary Damages
If your policy includes secondary damage coverage you may find that the cost of some unexpected repairs may be covered. Secondary damages are damages that occur as a result of the initial problem. For example, the need for a smoke cleanup, or water damage repairs could occur after a fire.
Maintaining a fire insurance policy for your business can be a good idea for a number of reasons. A fire policy may be able to cover a number of costs associated with cleanup and repairs, including the services of a restoration crew. Your insurance provider may even recommend a specific team for you to work with. Additionally, depending on your policy, secondary damages may also be covered which can help with unexpected damages.
What are the Most Common reasons a home needs fire damage cleanup?
9/10/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
SERVPRO brings professional equipment to the Memphis homes for the best outcome from any type of fire loss.
The most common cause of house fires happens in the kitchen, with the most common scenario being someone cooking with oil gets distracted, and the pan overheats and catches on fire. This problem can get elevated if water gets thrown on the hot grease. The hot oil causes water to turn immediately into steam, and as it expands, it quickly feeds and spreads the flames. Other frequently seen causes in home fires include:
* Furnace malfunctions
* Smoking in bedrooms
* Faulty electrical systems
* Unattended candles
* Children playing with matches or lighters
What is the Best Cleaner used for Fire Damage?
Unfortunately, when it comes to fire damage cleanup in Memphis properties, there is not a one-cleaner-fits all solution. The residues left behind by a fire can get placed in two main categories: dry or wet. While dry is one of the easier types of smoke damage types to get off surfaces, it cannot get mixed with liquid cleaning agents or it can get driven deeper into surfaces. Wet smoke smears easily and can be difficult to remove without the use of cleaning solutions with solvents in them.
SERVPRO technicians test every surface before cleaning to ensure the right method gets chosen for both the type of corrective action needed and the surface getting wiped.
How restorable are the walls and ceilings post fire?
Seeing the walls and ceilings in your home after a fire can be disheartening. The black smoke damage can appear to coat surfaces and may look difficult to remove. SERVPRO technicians have two choices when it comes to these surfaces. First, whenever possible, they use their professional cleaning agents to lift away the smoke residues and leave the surface clean. However, in some solutions, the soot gets driven into the surface due to the hot air expanding during the fire. When that scenario occurs, the use of a sealant to seal off the odorous soot preps the walls and ceilings for priming and painting.
Soot-Covered Furnishings May Have Restoration Potential
Many factors determine whether or not hardwood furnishings can get cleaned for reuse. First and foremost, if they are actually wood. Pressed wood and other composites generally react badly to the extreme temperatures of a fire and even worse when they come into contact with the water used to extinguish it. Other considerations are:
- If there is charring or unrepairable damage to the furniture
- The length of time exposed to water
- How quickly the restoration efforts began
SERVPRO has specially formulated cleaners for all types of wood and can remove even greasy wet smoke residues from hardwood furnishings. In some cases, the item may require refinishing afterward, but the surface will be clean and prepped for it.
Can Carpet Get Restored After a Fire Loss?
Much like furnishings, the carpet may have cleaning potential. SERVPRO technicians inspect it to see evidence of fiber melting, water damage, and other problems. If the carpet has the potential for restoration and reuse, the techs can use their deep cleaning methods, such as their steam cleaning units that pull away dirt and soot without leaving cleaning residues behind.
Window Treatments and Other Fabric Items
When clothing or window treatments get affected by smoke damage, and they do not require dry cleaning, the techs have access to robust Esporta washing systems that can return the items to the food-grade level of cleanliness after just one wash. Things that have the potential to shrink or bleed when they come into contact with water will need alternative methods of cleaning.
Odor Control Methods are a Must After Fire Loss
Before any type of repairs or rebuilding can happen within the loss areas, odor control applications need to happen. The technicians may use multiple methods to ensure that any remaining fire odors within the home get eradicated. They have light modes such as time-release gel pellets for on-going odor control or stouter practices such as thermal fogging or hydroxyl generators that actually change the soot particles at the molecular level and eliminate their ability to produce odors. Thermal fogging is particularly useful when applied to objects with deeply embedded odors as the heated fog penetrates porous objects in the same manner as the hot air did during the fire. This enables the solvent to reach and neutralize odors within things.
Bonfire Fun!
3/24/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
We at SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis have a few tips as we move into the summer grilling and bonfire season.
Bonfire Tips:
1. Keep a hose or bucket of water nearby so that if an ember or spark gets outside the fire pit you can put it out.
2. NEVER leave a bonfire unattended.
3. Make sure everyone stays at least 3 feet away from the fire.
4. When you are done with the bonfire, make sure the entire fire is out. Use water to spray the area down.
5. Make sure to walk around the yard before going inside for the night. Check for any sparks or embers.
Fun times can quickly turn into a catastrophe. We hope you have a fun and safe time having bonfires this summer. As always, we at SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis are here to help you in the event you have a fire or water damage.
How Does Lightning Cause a Fire?
2/26/2020 (Permalink)
When the lightning struck the home, it blew out the wall sockets.
Most cloud- to- ground lightning strikes come from the negatively charged bottom of the cloud traveling to the positively charged ground below. These lightning strikes can cause fire and property damages. If you're the tallest object, then lighting can strike you.
During the five-year-period of 2007-2011, NFPA estimates that U.S. local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 22,600 fires started by lightning per year.
In this photo, a Memphis resident experienced just this. Lightning struck her home causing it to catch fire.
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis was called in to clean the aftermath. We understand you may be feeling confuses, stressed, and more than a little vulnerable. Our technicians will treat your family with empathy and your home with great care.
Avoiding a fire in your apartment
2/24/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
A fire in a small space, such as your apartment can spread quickly and become a deadly fire within a few minutes. Just a few precautions taken beforehand can protect you and your apartment.
* Inspection first: Take a good look around your home to make sure all potential hazards have been identified and eliminated.
1. Use surge protectors in place of overloaded circuits or extension cords
2. Appliance cords that are frayed or cracked are replaced immediately
3. No cords are being extended under rugs or between rooms.
4. Space heaters are not being used near flammable materials, such as furniture and drapery. Make sure your space heaters are always turned off when the room is empty or everyone is going to bed.
5. No matches or lighters are in reach of children.
6. Candles and incense are never left unattended- make sure these items are far away from curtains and other flammable materials.
*Kitchen Safety:
1. Never leave food cooking on your stove unattended
2. Keep towels and potholders away from cooking areas
3. Don't wear loosely fitted sleeves while cooking
* Smoke alarms
1. Make sure there are alarms in your apartment and that they are functioning correctly.
How smoke impacts your home or business
2/24/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
Fire can leave your home or business devastated. Even after the fire is extinguished, soot and smoke can leave it's mark as a reminder that there was a fire. This is why it is vital that you work with your insurance company and professional restoration company.
Soot is a black powdery substance that is produced when a fire does not completely burn. Soot attaches to surfaces leaving a dirty trail. Soot can have a impact on your HVAC system, which can recirculate into the air in your home or business.
The combination of water and smoke creates a wet black substance, which can be a challenge to clean. It may spread further creating more damages to your property.
The smell of smoke is not visible. It can be trapped in your furniture, draperies, clothes and carpets.
If your property sustains smoke or soot damages from a fire, SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis is available 24/7 to help. Call today 901-454-4975
How to Prepare Your Business for a Fire
9/9/2019 (Permalink)
Being prepared for a business fire is an essential part of any disaster preparation plan. While a fie might seem unlikely, mistakes and unexpected things do happen. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best, and if you experience the worst, there are fire remediation solutions to get you back on your feet in no time.
Fire Extinguishing Equipment
For proper fire preparation, ensure you have enough fire extinguishers around the building and make sure they are updated. They should be stamped with a date, which should be less than a year old. The extinguishers must also be mounted correctly and without any obstructions around them. If your building has a hood system, it is necessary to have it inspected twice per year. If you have a sprinkler system, the sprinklers themselves should not have anything within 18 inches of them. Fire doors must also be clear and fully functioning.
Employees
It's also important to talk about the possibilities of a business fire with your employees and make sure they are trained on what to do in potential emergency situations. Make sure they keep combustibles away from heat sources, properly use and store flammables, and know how to operate fire extinguishers and where they are located. It is not a bad idea to conduct fire drills occasionally, especially for larger businesses with many employees.
Keep your building safe
To prevent fire damage, it is also important that other parts of the building are up to code and safe to operate, as well as clutter-free for employees to safely do their jobs.
Electrical outlets should not have exposed wiring.
Extension cords should generally only be used as a temporary solution.
Electrical panels should have at least 36 inches of clearance.
Hallways should be clear of unnecessary trash or clutter.
When Fire and Water take control of your life, we help you take it back
9/4/2019 (Permalink)
Mitigation requires quick action. The faster a SERVPRO Franchise Professionals arrives on - site to perform cleanup and restoration, the better the results- including loser claim cost.
Fire, Smoke and Soot Restoration Services include-
*Structural Cleaning- After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning.
*Content Cleaning- All of the restorable contents in affected area will be professionally cleaned and deodorized
* Deodorization- SERVPRO Franchise Professionals provide specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage.
Emergency Fire Damage Process Overview
* One Hour- Within one hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis will contact you to arrange for service.
* Four Hours- Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is to respond quickly to your damage.
* Detailed Explanation- A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO Franchise Professional will walk you though the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome.
* Pretesting- SERVPRO Franchise Professional will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.
*Eight Hours- Within eight hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager
* Cleaning, Restoration & Deodorization- SERVPRO Franchise Professional will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over
* Final Walk- Through- After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction
For more information call our office at 901-454-4975
5 Most Common Places a House Fire Starts
2/23/2019 (Permalink)
Taking basic precautions can help prevent fires at these five most common locations in your home
A fire can start almost anywhere in your home, but some areas are more likely to catch fire than others. America’s 350,000 annual house fires happen for many reasons—faulty electrical wiring, overheated appliances, unattended candles and fireplaces—but taking simple precautions at these five locations may prevent a fire at your home.
Kitchen
Half of all residential fires start in the kitchen due to appliances that use heat/electricity, cooking-related incidents (such as an unattended oven or stovetop), or fabric and material (a dishcloth, for example) that's too close to heat or a flame. An oven/stovetop with baked-on grease and residue can easily cause grease fires. Never leave food cooking on a stovetop unattended.
For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
Appliances that operate with electricity, gas or heat are potential fire hazards. Appliances 15 years or older are particularly prone to fire damage, especially if they aren't regularly cleaned, inspected and maintained. It's a good idea to only run appliances when you're at home.
- Dryers: lint, fiber and dust buildup is a primary cause of a laundry room fire. Keep vents and filters clean by removing lint after each use, and at least once a year, clean the lint from the exhaust hose at the back of the dryer.
- Dishwashers: heating elements in the dishwasher can overheat and catch fire, especially in older models.
- Microwaves: although convenient, microwaves can be dangerous if you heat food or materials that are flammable, such as aluminum foil, Styrofoam or certain plastic containers.
- Toasters/Toaster Ovens: the electrical elements inside a toaster can become faulty over time and may not turn off, which could start a fire. Crumbs can accumulate and become stuck at the bottom of the toaster, so clean it regularly. Never leave these appliances unsupervised when in use.
Bedroom
There are many potential fire hazards in bedrooms: bedding, curtains, plush items, mattresses. Mattresses made after 2007 are flame-retardant and comply with higher safety standards, so if yours is older, consider purchasing a new one. Install smoke alarms in each bedroom and make a fire escape plan that includes two ways to exit the room (usually through the door and a window).
For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis
Chimneys and Fireplaces
Chimneys and fireplaces can develop structural problems over time, which can cause temperatures to burn too high or chimney liners to loosen or detach, which can allow burning embers and ash to escape to combustible areas in walls, attics and roofs. Keep chimneys and fireplaces cleaned and maintained, and have them inspected and professionally cleaned at least once a year or when there is a quarter-inch buildup of creosote or soot. Keep rugs, tapestries and other fabrics away from the fireplace, and always keep a spark screen in front of the fireplace.
Living Room
Like bedrooms, living rooms contain many potentially flammable items: electronics, drapes/curtains, furniture. Candles are among the leading fire hazards in living rooms. Never leave a burning candle unattended and place it away from flammable/combustible objects.
What to do until helps arrives at your fire damage
2/23/2019 (Permalink)
A fire can leave behind soot, smoke damage and a host of other problems. Ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need thorough professional cleaning. If your home or business suffers a fire, it is important to take the appropriate steps to prevent further damage until your local SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis arrives. The following tips may help reduce damage and increase chances of a successful restoration.
DO:
-Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
-Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork. n Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
-If electricity is off, empty freezer/ refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
-Wipe soot from chrome kitchen/ bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, 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.
-Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.
Smoke and Soot Cleanup
2/23/2019 (Permalink)
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 901-454-4975
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 allow 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 Midtown Memphis 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.
Camp Fire Safety
8/30/2018 (Permalink)
Anyone out there been camping? I love it! It is easy to get caught up in the love of nature and forget about some important details. So here are a few tips to keep your camping experience safe.
- Tip #1: Don’t build a fire under low trees.
- Tip #2: Don’t leave the fire burning without someone watching it.
- Tip #3: Put the flames and coal out completely before going to bed. Remember only you can prevent a forest fire.
About SERVPRO Midtown Memphis
SERVPRO Midtown Memphis understands the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your life and home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO Midtown Memphis specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage. SERVPRO Midtown Memphis can also mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business.
Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. With a nationwide system of qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO Midtown Memphis
If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call us today at 901-454-4975
Serving you since 1967, SERVPRO is the cleaning and restoration brand you know and trust.
Insurance and Payment Information
For a stress-free claims process, SERVPRO works with your insurance to help manage the insurance process and paperwork.
Kitchen Safety: Don't get distracted
8/7/2018 (Permalink)
A pan on fire on the stove burner
Everyday the number one cause of a house fire is from cooking. Unfortunately, fires caused by cooking can be the most smelly and difficult to mitigate.
Without a doubt the majority of fires we see at SERVPRO, started in the kitchen. We’ve got some tips to make sure that the only thing that could be burning in that kitchen is this evening’s dinner – and we can’t help you with that one.
- Before you leave the kitchen, double-check that the over and burners have all been turned off. Most fires happen because the person doing the cooking gets distracted and forgets that they are cooking.
- Keep all paper towels, pot holders and kitchen towels away from the burners.
- In the event that things do get a little out of hand be sure to have a fire extinguisher handy for most kitchen fires. If you’re dealing with a grease fire – baking soda is your best bet.
If the fire is small, cover the pan with a lid and turn off the burner. Throw lots of baking soda or salt on it. Never use flour, which can explode or make the fire worse. Smother the fire with a wet towel or other large wet cloth.
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 901-454-4975
SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
"What about your stuff"
10/31/2017 (Permalink)
Having to deal with a fire at your home or business is bad enough. Seeing your belongings afterward can be devastating. SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis is here to help! We aren't magicians, but we can work some magic. We can't un-melt anything, however, we are restoration specialists.
Many things considered unsalvageable can be saved! At SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis, we take care of your property and your belongings. When necessary, we are trained and equipped to pack and transport your belongings to our facility for cleaning and storage while your property is being restored. Anything that we cannot save will be boxed and labeled for your inspection. All salvageable items will be returned to you "Like it never even happened."
Memphis Smoke and Soot Cleanup
11/1/2016 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Midtown Memphis
Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Midtown Memphis understand your family's furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings are the very things that make a house a home.
When a fire emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. SERVPRO can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Claim Inventory Service which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings.
Our content claim inventory services include:
*Preloss list and value of contents
*Detailed and accurate report
*Better infromation to settle claims quicker
*Assistance with burden of proof for claims
*Peace of mind when you need it the most
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 Midtown Memphis 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:
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- (901)454-4975
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