The Impact of Fire Damage on Insulation: What You Need to Know

12/12/2024 (Permalink)

When a fire occurs in a home or commercial property, the visible damage to walls, furniture, and flooring is often the first concern. However, hidden damage, particularly to insulation, can also have a significant impact on a building's structure, safety, and energy efficiency. Understanding how fire affects insulation and knowing when to seek professional restoration services is essential for full recovery.

How Fire Damages Insulation

Insulation is designed to keep your home comfortable by regulating temperature and energy usage. Common types of insulation include fiberglass, cellulose, and foam, each of which can respond differently to fire. Here’s how fire can affect them:

• Fiberglass Insulation: While fiberglass itself is not highly flammable, it can still suffer heat damage. The outer paper or foil facings used in fiberglass insulation are often combustible, and the extreme heat from a fire can melt or degrade the fiberglass fibers, diminishing its effectiveness.
• Cellulose Insulation: This type of insulation is made from recycled paper materials and is treated with fire retardants. However, in the event of a fire, the intense heat can overwhelm these retardants, causing the insulation to smolder and burn slowly, potentially leading to unseen hotspots within walls or attics. Even if it doesn’t ignite, the exposure to smoke can leave behind residues that reduce its insulation capacity.
• Foam Insulation: Rigid foam boards and spray foam insulation are typically more resistant to fire but can melt or release toxic fumes when exposed to high temperatures. Fire-damaged foam insulation can lose its shape and sealing properties, leading to gaps and a reduction in thermal performance.

Hidden Consequences of Fire-Damaged Insulation

Beyond the visible burn marks or melted insulation, there are several hidden consequences that homeowners and business owners should be aware of:

• Loss of Insulation Effectiveness: Even if insulation appears undamaged on the surface, the inner layers could have been compromised by heat. Once damaged, insulation no longer effectively regulates temperatures, causing heating and cooling systems to work harder and increasing energy bills.
• Smoke and Odor Absorption: Insulation materials, particularly porous ones like fiberglass and cellulose, can absorb smoke and odors during a fire. This not only diminishes air quality but also makes the home or building uncomfortable long after the fire is extinguished.
• Mold Growth: Fire damage often leads to the use of water during firefighting efforts. Water can saturate insulation materials, and if not properly dried, can become a breeding ground for mold. This can lead to additional structural damage and require costly remediation.

Why Professional Restoration is Necessary

Addressing fire damage to insulation is not just about replacing the visible damage. It requires professional assessment to determine the full extent of the harm. SERVPRO of East Memphis offers comprehensive fire damage restoration services, including the inspection and replacement of damaged insulation. Their teams have the experience and tools needed to ensure that all compromised insulation is removed and that the home or building is properly restored to prevent future issues.

Additionally, SERVPRO’s use of advanced techniques, such as thermal imaging, can detect heat damage or hidden pockets of smoldering insulation that might otherwise go unnoticed. This prevents further damage and ensures that the property is safe and energy-efficient once repairs are complete.

Fire damage goes far beyond what is visible. Insulation, hidden within walls and attics, is often overlooked but can suffer severe consequences from fire, heat, and smoke. Recognizing the signs of damaged insulation and working with professional restoration services like SERVPRO of East Memphis can ensure that your property is properly restored, energy-efficient, and safe from potential future hazards.

From Ashes to Freshness: The Importance of Cleaning Upholstery After a House Fire

8/13/2024 (Permalink)

A house fire can be a traumatic event, leaving behind significant damage to your property and belongings. Among the most affected are the upholstery and fabrics within your home, which can absorb smoke, soot, and odors, making professional cleaning a necessity. In this blog, we will discuss why cleaning upholstery after a house fire is crucial and how professional services can help restore your home to its preloss condition.

The Impact of Fire on Upholstery

Smoke and Soot Contamination

Upholstery fabrics are highly absorbent, meaning they can easily soak up smoke and soot particles. This not only damages the fabric itself but also leaves behind a lingering odor that can permeate the entire room.

Odor Retention

Smoke odors are stubborn and can be difficult to remove with conventional cleaning methods. Upholstery that has been exposed to smoke can continue to emit odors long after the fire has been extinguished, affecting the comfort and livability of your home.

Staining

Soot particles from the fire can cause staining on upholstery, especially on lighter fabrics. These stains can be difficult to remove without professional cleaning, often requiring specialized cleaning agents and techniques.

The Importance of Professional Upholstery Cleaning

Thorough Cleaning

Professional upholstery cleaning services use advanced techniques and equipment to thoroughly clean upholstery fabrics. This ensures that smoke residues and odors are effectively removed, restoring the fabric to its original condition.

Odor Elimination

Professionals have access to specialized odor removal techniques, such as ozone treatments, thermal fogging, and deodorizing agents, which are essential for eliminating persistent smoke odors from upholstery.

Preventing Further Damage

Cleaning upholstery promptly after a fire prevents soot and smoke residues from causing further damage to the fabric. Professionals can also apply protective treatments to help prevent future stains and damage.

Preserving the Lifespan of Upholstery

Regular professional cleaning can help extend the lifespan of your upholstery by preventing wear and tear caused by soot and smoke damage. It also maintains the appearance of your furniture, keeping it looking new and clean.

SERVPRO’s Upholstery Cleaning Services

SERVPRO® technicians are trained in the specific needs of cleaning upholstery after fire damage. Their expertise ensures that all fabrics are treated with the appropriate cleaning methods to achieve the best results. SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment and cleaning agents designed to effectively remove soot, smoke residues, and odors from upholstery without damaging the fabric.

SERVPRO's services include a comprehensive assessment of your upholstery to determine the best cleaning approach. They also address other aspects of fire damage restoration to ensure that your home is fully restored. In addition to cleaning, SERVPRO provides deodorization services to remove smoke odors from upholstery and other areas of your home.

Cleaning upholstery after a house fire is essential for restoring the comfort, safety, and appearance of your home. If you've experienced a house fire, consider contacting SERVPRO of East Memphis for professional upholstery cleaning and comprehensive fire damage restoration services.

Understanding Fire Safety Codes and Regulations

4/17/2024 (Permalink)

In this blog, we will explore the importance of fire safety codes and regulations for residential and commercial buildings.

Fire safety is a critical aspect of protecting both residential and commercial properties. Understanding and complying with fire safety codes and regulations is essential for safeguarding lives, minimizing property damage, and ensuring a secure environment. In this blog, we will explore the importance of fire safety codes and regulations for residential and commercial buildings, highlighting the key elements that property owners and managers need to consider to ensure compliance and minimize the risk of fire damage.

Residential Fire Safety Codes

Residential fire safety codes outline the requirements and guidelines necessary to enhance fire prevention and response in homes. These codes often cover aspects such as:

1. Smoke alarms and detectors: The installation, location, and maintenance of smoke alarms are crucial for the early detection of fires. Codes specify the minimum number and placement of smoke alarms within residential properties.
2. Fire extinguishers: Codes may mandate the presence of portable fire extinguishers to provide residents with the means to combat small fires before they escalate.
3. Escape routes and egress: Fire safety codes commonly address the importance of clear and accessible escape routes, including properly sized and maintained windows and doors in bedrooms, satisfying egress requirements.

Compliance with residential fire safety codes is essential for ensuring the safety of occupants and minimizing the risk of fire damage.

Commercial Building Fire Safety Codes

Commercial building fire safety codes are more complex and comprehensive due to the larger scale, higher occupancy, and diverse uses of these premises. Some crucial elements addressed within these codes include:

• Fire suppression systems: Commercial buildings often require the installation and maintenance of fire suppression systems, such as sprinkler systems and fire suppression extinguishing systems, to control or extinguish fires quickly.
• Exit and emergency lighting: Adequate exit signage and emergency lighting are vital for directing occupants to safe exit routes during emergencies.
• Fire alarm systems: Commercial buildings typically require a comprehensive fire alarm system covering various areas, including manual pull stations, smoke detectors, heat detectors, and fire alarm control panels.
• Fire-rated construction: Codes may specify requirements for fire-rated walls, doors, and other building elements to limit the spread of fire and smoke within the building and provide safe evacuation paths.

Importance of Compliance

Complying with fire safety codes and regulations is not only a legal requirement but also a crucial part of responsible property ownership and management. Failure to adhere to these codes can lead to severe consequences, such as fines, penalties, liability issues, and increased risk of fire damage. Non-compliance may also result in difficulties with insurance coverage, as certain policies require adherence to fire safety codes.

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

To ensure ongoing compliance with fire safety codes, regular inspections and maintenance are essential. Property owners and managers should schedule inspections by qualified professionals to identify potential fire hazards, assess the condition of fire protection systems, and ensure compliance with relevant codes. Additionally, regular maintenance of fire safety equipment, including extinguishers, alarms, and sprinkler systems, is crucial to ensure optimal functionality.

Navigating Fire Damage Restoration

In the unfortunate event of a fire, prompt fire damage restoration is vital for minimizing further damage and restoring the property to its pre-fire condition. Working with professionals experienced in fire restoration is crucial to ensure comprehensive cleaning, deodorization, and restoration of the affected areas, complying with industry standards and regulations.

Understanding fire safety codes and regulations is crucial for protecting residential and commercial properties from fire hazards and minimizing the risk of fire damage. Compliance with these codes ensures the safety and well-being of occupants, provides peace of mind, and helps mitigate potential legal and financial repercussions. Regular inspections, maintenance, and prompt restoration by experienced professionals are instrumental in maintaining compliance and ensuring a safe environment. If your property has experienced fire damage, contact fire restoration specialists like SERVPRO® for professional fire restoration services that adhere to industry standards and fire safety regulations.

How To Provide First Aid for Burns

6/21/2023 (Permalink)

Whether a fire is severe enough to cause fire damage, occupants of a commercial building may still suffer burns. It is essential to keep first aid supplies on site. Here are four steps to care for burns in the workplace. 

1. Determine the Severity

Assess the severity of a burn before attempting to provide first aid. Call for emergency assistance if a burn is severe, deep, or covers an area larger than three inches in diameter. While you wait for help to arrive, make sure that the person who has suffered the burn is safe. You may cover the affected area with a cool, moist bandage or clean cloth. It is possible to treat most minor burns on site.

2. Cool the Burn

If it is a minor burn and the skin is unbroken, run cool water to relieve pain and limit cellular damage. You can also apply a damp compress. There is no need to immerse a burn in water. If the skin is broken, do not run cool water over it.

3. Moisturize and Bandage

It is good to have an emergency kit with burn cream in a commercial property in case of fire damage. Apply this ointment or another gentle moisturizer to a burn to prevent drying. Some formulas contain analgesics that help to relieve pain. Bandage the burn by loosely wrapping sterile gauze around the affected area. This material can safely cover delicate, blistered skin.

4. Avoid Breaking Blisters

Blisters form to protect burned areas from infection. Do not intentionally break these blisters. If a blister does break, cleanse the area with water. You can also use mild soap. Apply antibiotic ointment and re-bandage the burn.

Take these burn first aid measures to treat injuries in the workplace. Call for medical help if burns are severe or extensive. If the incident that caused burns has also resulted in fire damage, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Is Your Business Prepared for a Fire?

5/22/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Preparedness Means More Than Simply Owning a Fire Extinguisher

A fire is every business owner’s nightmare. Your insurance policy will ensure you can rebuild in the event of a fire. But what about protecting your most important assets: your life and the lives of your employees? To avoid the unspeakable tragedy of losing employees in a fire, it’s necessary to build a fire escape plan.

Tips for Your Business’ Emergency Fire Plan

1. Ensure your business has the proper number of smoke alarms. In newer homes, the National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) requires hard-wired, interconnected smoke alarms with battery backup on every building level, outside each work area, and inside each office. If your building is older and smoke alarms are not already in place, install them on every level and outside each work area at a minimum. Test your alarms once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
   
   
2. Teach employees what smoke alarms look and sound like. If your smoke alarm has a test feature, set aside time for a training in which you or a professional teach your employees the fire escape plan and include a smoke alarm test. If it does not have a test feature, there are videos online which provide demonstrations of what smoke alarms sound and look like. Teaching employees to recognize an alarm and know the plan of action ahead of time will give employees more confidence to remain calm during the emergency.
   
   
3. Ensure everyone in the building knows two ways to escape from every room. It may not be an ideal route, but knowing a second exit from a room is advisable. It is also essential to establish a meeting spot outside the building to ensure everyone's arrival to safety. Depending on the size of the building, this may require a customized escape diagram.
   
   
4. Establish an emergency communications plan. As part of your building’s fire escape plan, make sure everyone knows who and how to contact in the event of an emergency.
   
   
5. Practice escaping from your building at least twice a year. This may seem excessive, but fire drills can save lives in the event of a real fire. Employees come and go, so frequently performing this drill makes sure all employees know what to do.

Call SERVPRO of East Memphis if your business suffers commercial fire damage at (901) 645-1285. 

Yes, Your Open-Concept House Design is More Flammable

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Eliminates Soot and Smoke Residues After a House Fire

Your home was not intended to stop fires before they spread to other areas of the house. Most of the materials used for constructing your home are flammable and actually fuel the spread throughout the structure. Further, the “open-concept” design that has become popularized thanks to HGTV personalities is a fire-spreading hazard. Flames and smoke can quickly move throughout the home because there is less fuel to burn, i.e. less walls, doors, etc. Building designs that have individual rooms with doors are more likely to have a slower spread since the fire can be temporarily isolated by the closing of doors. In any case, if your property catches on fire, it can incur extensive damage—and fast! 

Working to clean up the mess after the incident is over is no easy task. Most often, the substantial effects that stand out are smoke and soot damages. These are common versions of fire damage in homes, and they can often prove to be challenging to remove without the right equipment. 

Fortunately, our SERVPRO fire restoration professionals have the tools and expertise to help you through often widespread soot damages throughout your household. While the most concentrated of this effect can be found around the fire's originating point, where it burned the longest, this is not always the case. This matted debris and film from the combustion leave a dark, often black residue on surfaces, furniture, flooring, and other materials. 

Removing this residue requires multiple approaches.

Soot Damages

Soot is most concentrated where it burned longest, but matted debris and film from the combustion leave a dark or black residue on surfaces, furniture, flooring, and other materials, too. Removing this residue requires multiple approaches. For wall surfaces, scrubbing with wet and dry sponges can often remove the bulk of the film. Confined spaces like ductwork require high powered vacuums. 

Smoke Damages

Smoke damage often presents itself in the form of a harsh odor lingering in fabrics, carpeting, and open spaces throughout affected areas of your house. Removal of this odor typically requires thermal fogging, a process that releases an unscented chemical compound into the environment and contents of the room to break apart odor molecules and leave no discernible scent behind. 

The Right Solution

Unfortunately, this causes a bigger mess than most people are equipped to handle. Fire damage proves to be challenging to remove without the right equipment. We always suggest hiring a professional fire cleanup and restoration expert. We may be biased, but SERVPRO is just that. We have the experience, tools, and techniques to help you through widespread fire, smoke, and soot damages. 

When you face the effects after a house fire, SERVPRO of East Memphis responds quickly to get your home back to preloss conditions, as soon as possible. Give us a call at (901) 382-0900.

Charcoal Grill Fire Safety

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

Follow These Tips to Avoid a Barbecue Fire

Spring is upon us! The arrival of nice weather calls for grilling out with friends and family. Unfortunately, a grill fire is a real safety hazard in the right combination of circumstances. A fun get-together can turn into a disaster in a hurry. You can avoid a barbecue fire by following these tips:

1. Keep the Grill in a Safe Location 

Keep the grill outside on a level surface at least 10 feet from buildings and other flammable objects. Never grill under an overhang or in an enclosed area. Be sure to monitor it closely until it cools.

1. Keep Children and Pets at a Distance

Children and pets should stay at least three feet away from the grill. Ensure that pets on tie-downs cannot reach the grill; they can wrap their line around the grill and pull it over. It will keep them at a safe distance if a grill fire occurs. 

1. Be Mindful of Loose Clothing

Make sure that you wear appropriate attire when you grill. You can tie back everything with an apron. For added safety, use long tongs and spatulas and wear heat resistant grill gloves.

1. Use a Chimney Starter

A chimney starter is a much safer option than lighter fluid. It will also light the coals more evenly. 

1. Practice the Two-Zone Method

This simple, versatile method creates a much safer grilling experience. Put the hot charcoal on one side of the grill and leave the other side empty. If a flare-up occurs, move the food to the other side until the flame subsides, then move it back to continue cooking. The two-zone method can improve your food quality because it creates a searing side and another side for flame-free slow cooking.

Keep a fire extinguisher near. Do NOT use water; it can make a grease fire flare-up. Instead, close the grill lid until the outbreak subsides. If your house sustains fire damage or smoke damage from a grill fire, SERVPRO of East Memphis can return it to its original state.

Dry Techniques for Cleaning Fire Damaged Home

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

Our experienced and trained SERVPRO team knows that mitigating fire damage includes a variety of replacing, restoring, and cleaning techniques.

Fire Damage Cleanup Restored Using Dry Cleaning Methods

When our SERVPRO technicians work with hard surfaces, we can use water based-detergents and other wet cleaning methods. 

For porous surfaces, wet techniques could cause the soot to soak deeper into the material. Dry cleaning methods that use agitation can prove useful in these cases.

Heat can burn flammable materials inside a structure, forcing removal and replacement of those materials, but the smoke coming from the blaze can also cause soils, soot residues, and intense aromas. 

4 Types of Smoke and Soils

A professional will know to use different chemicals and techniques when removing residues left behind, based on the smoke type. In most situations, smoke and the soils it leaves behind can be classified into one of four categories of smoke and soot damage: wet, dry, protein residue, and fuel oil soot. Knowing what type of smoke was present helps the technician pick the best method to remove soot residues on the various surfaces of your building materials and contents. 

Dry Techniques for Cleaning Fire Damaged Home

Various fire residues adhere to each surface in your home differently, and we can help with it all. Some of the most effective techniques are dry techniques. Dry techniques are not suited to all material types, but they work well on materials that might otherwise be damaged from a more intense cleaning process. 

Light Agitation

SERVPRO of East Memphis conducts the dry cleaning agitation technique with softer tools such as dusters or brushes. Special vacuums are also useful when removing some soot residues and using compressed air to blow off the soot. Light agitation is used for delicate or lightly soiled items that don’t require further scrubbing.

Medium Agitation

Residues that adhere to some of your contents and building surface materials could work better in medium agitation cleaning techniques. Dry sponges are an example of a medium agitation method, and they can be useful when removing soot residues from drywall. Dusting cloths or crumbling cleaners that work like a pencil eraser are also useful.

It's What We Do

Our experienced and trained SERVPRO team knows that mitigating fire damage includes a variety of replacing, restoring, and cleaning techniques. When mitigating smoke-related problems inside your home, it is invaluable to have the necessary knowledge. For professional assistance after a fire, call SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 382-0900, 24/7. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster®.

Rug Cleaning for Fire Damaged High-Quality Carpet and Upholstery

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

Protect your high-quality carpet and upholstery investment. For professional assistance after a fire, call us at (901) 382-0900, 24/7.

Rug Cleaning for High-Quality Carpet and Upholstery After a Fire

The highest-quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling over time, especially after experiencing fire damage. These pieces of functional decor can be priceless, timeless, and a large investment. Protect your investment by having your Persian rugs maintained by a professional service.

SERVPRO of East Memphis offers several cleaning options to match any type of carpet and upholstery:

• Bonnet Cleaning, a less aggressive method for short pile carpets
• Hot Water Extraction, a more in-depth cleaning method for all carpet types
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse, to restore deeply soiled areas
• Showcase Premier Cleaning, the most thorough cleaning method in the industry
• Dry Cleaning, used when color-fastness is an issue

After a fire, more than carpets and upholstery are damaged. That is why, as cleaning professionals, we have equipment to clean varieties of surfaces and materials.

Cleaning vs. Replacing

Heat can burn flammable materials inside a structure, forcing removal and replacement of those materials, but the smoke coming from the blaze can also cause soils, soot residues, and intense aromas that are easier to restore. 

Our experienced and trained SERVPRO team knows that mitigating fire damage includes a variety of replacing, restoring, and cleaning techniques. Various fire residues adhere to each surface in your home differently, and we can help with it all.

Dry Smoke

Most fires go through stages of creating both wet and dry smoke. However, usually fires will have more of one type than the other. Dry smoke is created by fast-burning, oxygen-rich burns. Dry smoke is also usually created when organic materials like wood, paper, or natural fabrics burn.

Wet Smoke

Whether a fire produces a majority of wet or dry smoke depends on the amount of oxygen present, the combustion rate, and the type of substance that is burning. When the fire is starved of oxygen and burns at a lower temperature, it produces wet smoke. Wet smoke is also created when synthetic materials such as rubber or plastic burn. Wet smoke usually adheres strongly to surfaces and is difficult to remove. 

Cleaning Techniques

When our SERVPRO technicians work with hard surfaces, we can use water based-detergents and other wet cleaning methods. However, for porous surfaces, wet techniques could cause the soot to soak deeper into the material. Dry cleaning methods that use agitation can prove useful in these cases.

Dry Cleaning: Light Agitation

SERVPRO conducts the dry cleaning agitation technique with softer tools such as dusters or brushes. Special vacuums are also useful when removing some soot residues and using compressed air to blow off the soot.

Dry Cleaning: Medium Agitation

Residues that adhere to some of your contents and building surface materials could work better in medium agitation cleaning techniques. Dry sponges are an example of a medium agitation method, and they can be useful when removing soot residues from drywall. Dusting cloths or crumbling cleaners that work like a pencil eraser are also useful.

Future Preventative Maintenance

Carpets act as a filter, trapping dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils. All carpet manufacturers agree on actions you can take between carpet cleanings to increase the lifespan of your carpet.

IICRC states that 79% of soil in carpet is dry soil. Vacuuming is a key component to proper care and maintenance of carpet.

Preventative maintenance actions include: 

• Regular vacuuming
• Spot removal
• Pilating the carpet to prevent matting
• Moving furniture to change traffic patterns
• Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet

SERVPRO has the necessary tools, techniques and knowledge to save your rugs after fire damage. Protect your high-quality carpet and upholstery investment. For professional assistance after a fire, call us at (901) 382-0900, 24/7.

Fire Prevention: Save Your Home and Family

5/8/2022 (Permalink)

Fire prevention can save your home and your life.

You protect your family by locking doors at night, monitoring who they spend time with and where they go. But do you consider fire prevention and preparedness tips?

As a homeowner, the thought of a fire breaking out in your house is a nightmare scenario. It puts your family’s safety at risk, and you could lose many possessions including your home itself. Avoid this frightful scenario and potentially save lives by reducing the risk of fire.

Maintain Smoke Alarms

All homes should have smoke alarms to alert you to fire danger. One or two alarm devices are not enough if you have multiple levels or a larger property. Your home should have a working smoke alarm in every bedroom and an additional alarm per floor. Maintain your smoke alarms to ensure they are effective in the unfortunate incident of a fire.

• Test your smoke alarm once per month by pressing their tester button.
• Change the batteries in your smoke alarm at least once per year.
• Never disconnect your smoke alarm.

Practice an Evacuation Plan

It is a wise idea to explain rules for safely exiting the home. Putting together a simple to understand plan for all family members is an easy way to make sure you and your family are on the same page in the event of a fire emergency.

Something as simple as identifying a meeting location outside, explaining how to open tricky windows, or showing how to remove cut window screens is a great start for teaching young children safe fire evacuation. Teaching administration of tools like the fire extinguisher and its location can prevent small kitchen fires from forming catastrophes.

Keep an Eye on the Dryer

Of major appliances, the dryer is perhaps the most significant potential culprit for starting a fire apart from countertop ovens and griddles. Check the filter and remove lint buildup after every load. Doing this also helps dry time, so it’s a win-win! We also recommend inspecting the outside vent and the hose leading from the dryer to the vent for proper ventilation. There are many YouTube tutorials that explain the ins and outs of dryers and their filters—those videos may be useful for extra, seasonal, deep cleanings.

Inspect Outlets

Being aware of electrical problems is an important fire precaution. Never overload your outlets. Also, be mindful when you use power strips, especially with computers and TVs. If an outlet looks dingy, it could be blown which indicates hidden problems. Outlet inspection is especially necessary for rental apartments or townhomes. Take precaution and call a professional electrician or property maintenance for help. We do not recommend fixing electrical problems. This is not a DIY project. 

Be Careful When You Cook

Because there are many silent heat sources in a kitchen, fire prevention is most likely and therefore most important here. Make sure your oven is clean and functioning correctly. If the oven emits an unusual amount of heat when closed and cooking, there may be problems with the seal or heating mechanism. It does not hurt to have a professional look at the appliance to ensure the temperature regulation mechanisms are working properly.

If all is functioning, it is wise to use the self-clean setting when your oven looks particularly grimey. This will heat the inside of the oven to a high temperature, burning stuck-on residue. When the self-cleaning is done, the food particles inside will be ash and can be easily wiped out. This is a simple and effective way to clean an oven. However, do not leave your oven unattended while this process is happening.

In fact, never leave any kitchen appliance unattended, especially food on the stove. A good rule of thumb is to store items off and away from the stove—you may not know when a child messes with the dials or an adult forgetfully leaves a burner on. In this age, stoves have smart locks that prevent accidental dial clicks. Regardless, putting items away ASAP as opposed to leaving them on the stove is a good, safe practice.

You can have peace of mind when you follow these fire prevention guidelines. We, at SERVPRO, want you to help prepare you. Still, accidents happen. In the event of an unfortunate situation, we offer fire damage services like Fire & Smoke Restoration, soot and odor removal and contents cleaning. If you have fire damage, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 382-0900.

The 3 Types of Smart Smoke Detectors

5/8/2022 (Permalink)

Although classic smoke detectors haven't changed much over the past few decades, they have seen a few minor upgrades.

The 3 Types of Smart Smoke Detectors

Wait…there’s more than one type of smoke detector? Yes! That old smoke detector you grew up with is outdated. Although classic smoke detectors haven't changed much over the past few decades, they have seen a few minor upgrades.

Today's homeowner often opts for smart devices for added convenience. Perhaps it's time to consider adding your smoke alarm to the list of smart devices for your home. Take a look at three primary smart smoke detector options before choosing to upgrade:

1. Smart Battery

This is the most basic type of fire safety smart device available. Smart batteries have a short list of responsibilities, only notifying you, via push notifications, when your alarm goes off or when the batteries are about to expire. Batteries typically last for about five years, so you likely won't be receiving that type of alert all too often.

2. Smart Smoke Detector

The classic smart smoke alarm is a natural step up from the smart batteries. The primary difference between these alarms and classic detectors is that smart detectors connect to your internet. This allows you to receive notifications when the batteries are low or when the alarm goes off. This device also gives you the capability to silence incoming alarms from your mobile device.

3. Listener

If you're reluctant to replace your entire alarm, you can always opt for a listening device. These gadgets are intended to listen for alarms and alert you when one goes off. They're ideal if you have several alarms in your house and only want to install one device per floor, as opposed to replacing the smoke detectors in every room.

Replacing your smoke alarm with a smart device can help you stay vigilant. You can have the added ease of being able to deactivate alarms using your smartphone, and you won't have to put up with annoying low battery chirps. Contact fire remediation experts, like the local fire department, before you attempt to tamper with the alarms in your home.

Space Heater Safety and Fire Prevention Tips

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Stay safe when using a space heater and remember, all heaters need space.

Cold temperatures inevitably make us want to cozy up under a blanket and crank up the heat, but before you bring the space heater up from the basement to get extra toasty, consider these safety and fire prevention tips. According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment is the leading cause of all house fires. 

Space Heater Safety First! 

SERVPRO of East Memphis has compiled some space heater safety and fire prevention tips to help you stay warm, but most of all, to keep you and your home or office safe from fire damage. 

• Keep 3 feet of distance between your space heater and anything that can burn, including people!
• Never plug your space heater into a power strip; always plug it directly into the wall. 
• Turn off and unplug the heater whenever you leave the room, especially when leaving for the day or going to bed. 
• Always place your heater on a flat surface, away from foot traffic. 
• Educate your family and coworkers about the dangers of space heaters.
• Keep the heater away from wet areas. This includes bathrooms, basements, and even wet hands and materials. 

Buy the Right Heater 

• Check to see if your heater has a seal marking that it’s been tested by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory. 
• Purchase a space heater that is suitable for the size of the room you would like to heat. Use small heaters for small spaces, and large heaters only for big, open spaces. Using a small heater in a large space will cause the heater to overwork and reduce its lifespan.
• Know your heater’s wattage. Higher wattage = higher energy output. Low wattage = less energy. 
• Choose a heater with an automatic shut-off that engages if the heater is knocked over or overheats. 
• Know about the different types of space heaters: oil or water-filled radiator heaters, fan-forced heaters, ceramic heaters, and infrared heaters. 

Using these space heater safety and fire prevention tips will help prevent fire damage in the home and workplace. If you have any questions about fire prevention or if your property experiences smoke or fire damage to your home, call your local professionals at SERVPRO of East Memphis for assistance. We’re available 24/7 at (901) 754-9061. 

Understanding the Fire Damage Restoration Process

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire tragedy such as an electrical fire or a utility room fire, there's confusion among the afflicted parties, and it is hard to figure what to expect. In such a scenario, a professional commercial fire damage specialist can ensure that the building occupants get back to their normal lives. Every afflicted party must begin the process. Most people take a long time to start the fire restoration after the fire truck has left the premises. This causes soot damage to take a toll on the building and its contents further after firefighters have completed the fire suppression process.

Emergency Fire Damage Contacts

Any fire damage restoration company understands that the longer it takes to begin the fire restoration process, the harder it becomes to rectify soot and smoke damage. Most commercial building managers have emergency contacts for a firetruck.

Commercial fire damage experts and companies have emergency contacts, and they operate 24/7. They are prompt in their response, and property owners and managers must save their contacts.

For information regarding SERVPRO of East Memphis fire damage restoration process call (901) 754-9061.

Containing the Costs of Fire Damage Restoration

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

When faced with a fire, you have several crucial issues that need to address in your Memphis, Tennessee, property. Underpinning issues is the matter of undertaking fire damage restoration cost-effectively. There're key tactics you can employ when it comes to addressing fire damage in a cost-effective manner.

Select a Comprehensive Restoration Company 

An essential step to take when containing fire damage restoration costs is gathering information regarding restoration companies that provide comprehensive services. You need a restoration company after a fire that provides a range of services. When dealing with residential and commercial fire damage remediation, a comprehensive master plan for addressing fire damage is crucial in containing overall costs.

Quick Recovery Response

Another factor with the cost associated with fire damage is a quick response from the company. The reality is that fire damage is best addressed, and associated costs are best contained when a professional restoration company can provide a rapid response. Look for fire damage restoration services that can provide an immediate response to a residential or commercial damage situation. A quick response must include proper board-up. This allows minimization and protection of the property.

Reliable Cost Estimate 

Accurate, reliable, and thorough estimates are also fundamental factors when determining cost. You need to select a company that will provide an accurate, reliable estimate. Keep in mind that some fire cleanup and remediation services will guarantee estimates to a fire remediation matter. With a proper estimate, available insurance can allocate more effectively in the overall process of undertaking thorough remediation of residential and commercial fire damage.

Experienced Specialists 

Another cost factor is if the company has a professional team of experienced specialists. The company must have specialists trained in all aspects of post-fire remediation. This includes dealing with board-up and fire cleanup to complete smoke, soot, and odor removal. Also, specialists of the company should be licensed, bonded, and insured. Consider these elements when determining the cost of a company to deal with your property's fire remediation.

Best Equipment 

Lastly, a company using the right, most up-to-date techniques and equipment for tasks dealing with fire remediation plays a primary role in the effectiveness and cost. When hiring a company, you need to obtain basic information on the equipment they use throughout the remediation process. Also, you need to examine the types of chemicals and related methods used in the remediation process.

These factors help determine the overall costs associated with fire remediation. For fire-related questions, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Steps to Take After a Fire Destroys Your Home

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of East Memphis today!

Saying a home suffered from water damage after a fire sounds crazy; however, think of the number of water firefighters use to put out a fire. Sadly, in addition to having to deal with fire damage, homeowners must also contend with damage caused by the fire hose. If you've experienced a house fire and are unsure where to begin your remediation efforts, consider the following tips from your Memphis, Tennessee, SERVPRO of East Memphis fire restoration specialist.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Immediately after a fire has destroyed your home, reach out to your insurance provider to see what, if any, of the damage the company will cover. If your policy does cover fire damage, an agent can help you fill out forms and file your claim to speed up the time it takes to recover the compensation you need for the restoration.

Call a Fire Restoration Team 

While it may be tempting to clean up and repair your home yourself, doing so can be extremely dangerous. Fire damage, combined with water damage, has likely made your home's structure weak. Additionally, you never know what objects may still be smoldering, and if you attempt to move objects, you risk getting second-or third-degree burns.

Clean Up Debris

Once hired, a fire restoration team will begin the slow but steady cleanup process. They will first remove all debris and items that are not salvageable and then move whatever items are salvageable to a safe area outside of the home to dry. Water extraction tools can be used to remove water from the carpet, floorboards, walls, and any damaged materials—doors, floorboards, window casings, etc.—will be removed.

Restore Your Home

When the home is clean and dry, your fire restoration team can get to work restoring your home to pre-fire conditions. Doing so may take time and considerable effort; however, with SERVPRO of East Memphis, it won't be long before you're back in your home. Water and fire damage often go hand in hand.

If your Memphis, Tennessee, property experienced fire damage, turn to your local disaster remediation team for help today! For additional information, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Overcoming Residential Fire Damage

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

A fire can happen anywhere in Memphis, Tennessee, and it's important to know what to do next after the fire is out. Professional fire damage restoration encompasses many aspects. Knowing what's involving and how to receive help is key to overcoming residential or commercial fire damage.

Board-Up

Board-up is the first step of fire damage restoration. While there will be a restoration company working, the crew won't be there all day. Without boarded windows and doors, people can trespass on the property.

Tools & Techniques 

One of the top reasons to call a restoration company is because they have tools and techniques to help with the various aspects of residential and commercial fire damage, including fire cleanup, smoke odor, smoke damage, and soot damage. Contacting a restoration company ensures that homeowners or business owners can focus on other aspects, not fire damage.

Document Residential and Commercial Fire Damage

An insurance agency often handles fire damage. For insurance to cover a claim, the fire damage needs to be identified. Cleanups can't begin until after photos are taken. The restoration company can document what happened after a fire in a home or business. In other instances, an adjuster comes to record the smoke damage, soot damage, and everything else before the fire cleanup takes place. Owners who have had a fire in a business or home should be ready to file a claim. By working with professionals, they can learn the proper procedures. It will make it easier to get everything done, including removing the lingering smoke odor.

Fire Damage Addressed Quickly 

Cleaning up the damages should be done quickly; smoke damage makes it hard to breathe. Soot damage might lead to permanent interior damage. There might be issues with building stability because of weakened structures. By working with a restoration company immediately following a fire, it's possible to work on smoke damage, soot damage, and the smoke odor without having to worry about long-term damage. Every home and business owner should know what will happen in case of a fire. It's not just calling emergency services to get a fire truck out. A mess occurs when a sprinkler system or fire extinguishers are used. Depending on the fire situation, there might be water, foam, powder, or other elements covering everything. As such, this needs to be cleaned up before it's possible to identify the full level of damage.

It's impossible to do everything on one's own. This is why you should contact a restoration company that specializes in fire damage. They ensure owners get the help they need every step of the way without waiting for an extended amount of time. For additional information contact, SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 754-9061.

Fire Damage Restoration

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Memphis is here to help!

Immediately after a fire, you should contact SERVPRO of East Memphis, fire damage specialists. Below are steps to help get you started getting your home back to normal and the fire damage restoration process.

Step 1

Contact a restoration company immediately; the sooner, the better.

Step 2

Assess the extent of the damage to your property. Many times, the soot, water, and smoke damage is more extensive than visually apparent.

Step 3

Prevent damage from getting worse by using tarps, plastic sheets, sealing services, and industrial fans. You need to keep ash and soot contained and dry any areas suffering from water damage.

Step 4

Start the cleanup process. Professionals have the chemicals and equipment necessary to remove soot, ash, smoke, and water. Smoke cleaning requires special equipment and devices.

Step 5

Repair and renovate any parts of your home that received extensive fire damage. You may need new walls or flooring or to rebuild entire rooms.

Smoke Damage

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

After you've experienced a fire at your Memphis, Tennessee, property, you need to act fast and contact fire damage specialists.

The longer you allow smoke and odors to linger, the deeper they soak into walls, furniture, and carpets. You should ventilate your house as quickly as possible and turn off your heating and air and replace the air filters. Additionally, your HVAC system could make the problem worse by spreading smoke, soot, and ashes throughout your home. Heavily damaged items may need disposal. Consider throwing away food items that weren't sealed in airtight containers that came in contact with smoke damage.

Don't let a fire ruin your life. The devastation can be disheartening. React quickly. The faster you start the smoke cleaning process, the less extensive the damage will be. Contact SERVPRO of East Memphis today at (901) 754-9061.