Recent Fire Damage Posts
Why Every Home in Buena Park Should Have a Fire Extinguisher?
9/30/2024 (Permalink)
We are trained and certified to restore fire damage in Orange County.
Our local Buena Park team restores fire damage in Buena Park every year. During Residential Fire Awareness Month, it's essential to focus on the tools that can help you manage a fire before it spreads—like having a fire extinguisher in your home. Fire extinguishers are critical for controlling small fires or containing them until the fire department arrives.
There are different types of fire extinguishers designed for various kinds of fires. For home use, a multi-purpose fire extinguisher labeled ABC is the best choice, as it can be used on most fires, including those involving paper, wood, cloth, electrical equipment, and flammable liquids.
Keep at least one fire extinguisher in key areas of your home, such as the kitchen, garage, and nearby exits. This preparation can provide a sense of security and readiness in the event of a fire.
However, simply having a fire extinguisher isn't enough—you must know how to use it. The PASS method is a simple guide: Pull the pin, Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side. Please ensure everyone in your household knows where the fire extinguishers are located and how to use them properly.
This October, check that your fire extinguishers are in working order, replace expired ones, and ensure your family is prepared to use them in an emergency.
Call Us Today!
When your home or business in has fire damage, our Buena Park team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 714-523-9119.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
How to Safeguard Your La Mirada Home from Faulty Appliances Fire Hazards?
9/24/2024 (Permalink)
We have the training, equipment, and certification to restore fire damage in Orange County.
Our local Buena Park team is a leader in fire damage restoration services in La Mirada. Faulty household appliances are a common source of residential fires, but taking proactive measures can significantly reduce this risk.
Begin with regular maintenance and inspections of your appliances. Many fires are caused by appliances that have not been maintained or developed faults over time. Clean and service your appliances according to the manufacturer's recommendations to keep them in good working order.
Pay special attention to appliances that generate heat, such as ovens, dryers, and toasters. Ensure that dryer lint traps are cleaned after every use, as accumulated lint is highly flammable. Ovens and stoves should be kept clean and free of grease build-up, which can easily ignite.
Replace or repair any appliance that shows signs of malfunction, such as unusual noises, excessive heat, or electrical shorts. Avoid using damaged appliances, as they can pose significant fire hazards. It's also important to use appliances as intended and follow all safety instructions, which will keep you informed and your home secure.
Unplug small appliances when not in use to prevent overheating and potential fire risks. Additionally, consider installing an appliance safety checklist in your home to remind all household members of these safety practices.
Call Us Today!
When your home or business in La Mirada has fire damage, our Buena Park team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 714-523-9119.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Portable Air Conditioner Starts Fire in Buena Park Home?
9/17/2024 (Permalink)
We are fire damage restoration leaders in Orange County.
Our local Buena Park team responds to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Portable air conditioning units offer a convenient way to cool your home but can also pose fire risks. Here’s how:
Electrical Overload
Portable air conditioners draw significant power, and plugging them into overloaded circuits or using inappropriate extension cords can lead to overheating and fire. Plug the unit directly into a wall outlet, avoiding the use of power strips or extension cords.
Faulty Wiring
With time and usage, portable air conditioner wiring can become damaged or worn. Frayed cords, loose connections, or exposed wires can ignite surrounding materials. Regularly inspect the unit's power cord and internal wiring for any signs of wear and replace any faulty components immediately.
Blocked Vents
Portable air conditioners need proper ventilation to operate efficiently. Blocked or obstructed vents can cause the unit to overheat, posing a fire risk. The unit should be placed in a well-ventilated area with unobstructed airflow, and the exhaust hose is correctly installed.
Poor Maintenance
Accumulated dust and debris can clog an air conditioning unit's filters and internal components, causing it to overheat. Regular cleaning and maintenance, including filter replacement and internal component checks, are crucial to keeping the unit safe and efficient.
Proper Placement
Locate the air conditioner on a stable, flat surface away from flammable materials.
Call Us!
When your Buena Park home or business has fire damage, our Buena Park team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 714-523-9119.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Family Dog Causes Electrical Fire in Buena Park Home?
8/20/2024 (Permalink)
We are leaders in fire damage restoration in Orange County.
Our local Buena Park team responds to fire damage emergencies 365 days a year , 24 hours a day. The National Fire Protection Association cites electrical fires as one of the leading causes of home fires in the United States. While pets bring joy to our homes, their curiosity can sometimes lead to unforeseen dangers, such as chewing on electrical wires. This behavior not only poses a risk to the pet but also increases the likelihood of a house fire. Electrical wires chewed by pets can expose live wires, leading to short circuits or electrical arcing, both of which can ignite nearby materials.
To minimize this risk, pet owners should consider pet-proofing their homes by concealing or protecting electrical wires with cord covers or conduit. Additionally, providing pets with appropriate chew toys and keeping them supervised in areas with electrical appliances can help prevent accidents. Regularly inspecting wires for signs of damage or wear and promptly addressing any issues can also mitigate the risk of fire caused by pet-related electrical incidents.
By taking these preventive measures, pet owners can ensure a safer environment for both their pets and their homes, reducing the likelihood of a devastating fire.
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business in Buena Park sustains fire damage, our local Buena Park team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 714-523-9119.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Inspecting the Property After a Wildfire has Passed in Buena Park?
7/30/2024 (Permalink)
We restore wildfire damage in Orange County.
Our local Buena Park team is trained and certified to restore fire damage in Buena Park. After a wildfire has passed, thoroughly inspecting your property is crucial to ensure safety and begin recovery. Here are some tips for assessing the damage:
Before returning home, wait for official notification from authorities. Wildfire-affected areas can remain hazardous due to hotspots, unstable structures, and downed power lines. Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves, pants, gloves, and sturdy shoes, to guard against ash, debris, and potential toxins.
Start by surveying the exterior of your home. Check for structural damage, such as weakened walls, foundations, and roofs. Look for heat damage or charring, especially around windows, doors, and vents. Take photos for insurance purposes.
Inspect utilities carefully. Turn off the gas supply and look for damage to pipes and tanks. Check for electrical hazards like exposed wires or damaged equipment. If in doubt, have a professional inspect these systems before turning them back on.
Inside your home, look for soot and smoke damage. Clean surfaces thoroughly and use air purifiers to reduce lingering smoke odors. Be cautious of contaminated water and food supplies; dispose of any items that might have been exposed to heat or smoke.
Document all damage and keep a record of repairs for insurance claims.
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business in Buena Park has fire damage, our local Buena Park team is always Here to Help. ® Call us today at 714-523-9119.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Tips for Preventing Oven Fires in La Mirada?
7/23/2024 (Permalink)
We respond to fire damage emergencies 24/7 in Orange County.
Oven fires cause many home fires in the United States. Our local Buena Park team responds to fire damage emergencies every year in La Mirada. One of the primary causes of oven fires is food debris and grease buildup. Spills and splatters from cooking can accumulate over time and ignite when the oven is in use. Regularly cleaning the oven, including the interior walls, racks, and door, can help prevent this risk.
Using the oven’s self-cleaning feature can also reduce fire hazards. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, as the high temperatures involved can pose a risk if not used correctly. Always remove any large food debris before initiating a self-cleaning cycle.
Avoiding the use of aluminum foil on the oven’s bottom is another crucial safety measure. While some people use foil to catch spills, it can restrict airflow and cause overheating, leading to a potential fire. Instead, use oven-safe mats or liners specifically designed for this purpose.
Regularly inspecting the oven’s heating elements and wiring for signs of wear or damage is also essential. Faulty components can spark and start a fire. Professional maintenance and prompt repairs can ensure the oven operates safely. By following these tips, homeowners can minimize the risk of oven-related fires and enjoy safe cooking experiences.
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business in La Mirada needs fire damage restoration services, our local Buena Park team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 714-523-9119.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Smoke Residue and Odor Removal Services in Buena Park?
7/16/2024 (Permalink)
We are trained and certified to restore smoke damage in Orange County.
Smoke damage can be a devastating consequence of a fire, leaving homes and businesses with lasting impacts that go beyond what the eye can see. Due to the complexity and severity of the damage, professional cleaning and restoration services are essential in restoring smoke-damaged properties.
Smoke leaves behind corrosive residues and soot that can penetrate surfaces, causing discoloration, odors, and potential structural damage. Attempting to clean these residues with standard household products can spread the damage and embed harmful particles deeper into materials. Our local Buena Park team restores smoke damage using specialized equipment and techniques to thoroughly remove smoke residues.
Our technicians use advanced air filtration and deodorization techniques to remove airborne particles and neutralize odors. We can also identify and address hidden damage which might be overlooked by an untrained eye.
Time is critical in smoke damage restoration, as the longer residues remain, the more difficult they are to remove. Smoke from fire leaves behind a unique signature based on what fueled the fire. For this reason, we use a wide variety of cleaning methods and specialized equipment to restore smoke damage to preloss conditions “Like it never even happened.”
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business in Buena Park needs smoke odor and residue removal services, our local Buena Park team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 714-523-9119.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Faulty Electrical Cord Starts Fire in La Mirada Home?
3/26/2024 (Permalink)
We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in Orange County.
Our local Buena Park team responds to fire damage emergencies every year in La Mirada. Electrical fires remain one of the top causes of home fires in the United States, and in many cases, these fires could have been prevented by routine inspections. Here are some tips from The National Fire Protection Association to prevent electrical fires in your home:
- Check electrical cords to make sure the wires are not damaged, cracked, or loose. If the cords need to be repaired, take the item to a professional repair shop, hire an electrician, or replace it with a new item.
- Make sure cords are not running across doorways or under carpets. If they are, have a qualified electrician install more outlets.
- Keep children away from electric cords and outlets. Cords placed in the mouth can cause a burn and objects placed in a receptacle can cause a shock, burns, or electrocution.
- Make sure that all receptacle outlets and switches have faceplates.
- Never put more than one plug in each receptacle. An outlet may have one or more receptacles - one to receive each plug.
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business in La Mirada sustains any fire damage, our local team in Buena Park is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 714-523-9119.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Comprehensive Fire Damage Restoration Services in Buena Park?
2/13/2024 (Permalink)
We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in Orange County.
Our local Buena Park team is highly trained and certified to restore fire damage. We follow this comprehensive, seven-step process when restoring fire damage:
Step 1: Emergency Contact
Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event to help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources.
Step 2: Inspection and Assessment
Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service
We will board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.
Step 4: Water Removal and Drying
The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes most of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.
Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot
We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.
Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing
We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
Step 7: Restoration
Restoration may involve minor or major repairs, such as reconstructing various areas or rooms in a home or business.
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business in Buena Park needs fire damage restoration services, our local team in Buena Park is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 714-523-9119.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Smoke Residue and Odor Removal Services in Buena Park?
1/3/2024 (Permalink)
We are a top choice for fire damage restoration services in Orange County.
Our local Buena Park team is highly trained and certified to remove smoke residue and smoke odor from homes and businesses. Here are some examples of the equipment we use for this purpose:
Air Scrubber or Filter
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system (HVAC) air scrubber or a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) air purifier can capture larger smoke molecules. There will still be some residual odor from smaller molecules or surface residues.
Ozone Generator
An ozone generator is a fast and highly effective smoke odor restoration method. These machines emit ozone, which follows the same paths through the air as smoke and oxidizes any residual traces in the air or on surfaces.
Thermal Fogging
Thermal fogging is an intensive treatment involving fogging machines. After residents evacuate, smoke cleaning professionals fill a structure with petroleum distillates that neutralize odors and ventilate the area.
Hydroxyl Generator
A hydroxyl generator is a slower and gentler alternative to ozone. These machines rely on ultraviolet light to generate hydroxyl radicals that eliminate smoke odors. It will take about three to five days of continuous operation to achieve the same results as a single ozone treatment.
Vapor Modification
Vapor modification is another odor elimination method that relies on aromatic compounds and a blower or fan to neutralize smoke odor.
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business in Buena Park has smoke damage, our local team in Buena Park is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 714-523-9119.
SERVPRO® franchise is independently owned and operated.
Halloween Decorations Catch Fire in La Palma Home?
10/24/2023 (Permalink)
We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Orange County.
Our local Buena Park team has been restoring fire damage in La Palma for many years. This month is Residential Fire Awareness Month, and we want everyone fire-safe this Halloween. Here are some of the reasons to be extra vigilant:
Candles and Decorations: Many Halloween decorations involve candles, jack-o'-lanterns, and other flammable materials. These decorations can easily catch fire if placed near curtains, paper decorations, or other combustible items.
Costume Fabrics: Halloween costumes often incorporate synthetic fabrics, which can be highly flammable. Loose hanging or flowing costumes near open flames or candles can quickly ignite.
Flammable Props: Halloween parties might feature props such as fake cobwebs, hay, and straw. These materials can easily catch fire and spread flames if they come into contact with heat sources.
Outdoor Bonfires and Fire Pits: Bonfires and fire pits are popular during Halloween parties, especially in colder regions. Improperly managed fires, sparks, or flying embers can lead to unintentional fires.
Electrical Overload: Elaborate Halloween decorations that require numerous electrical connections can lead to overloaded circuits and electrical fires if not properly managed.
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business in La Palma suffers fire damage and you need fire damage restoration services, our local team in Buena Park is Here to Help® We’ll restore your property damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 714-523-9119.
Franchises are independently owned and operated.
Buena Park Home Damaged by Smoke from Nearby Fire?
9/19/2023 (Permalink)
We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in Orange County.
Our local Buena Park team is highly trained and certified to restore fire, smoke, and soot damage. Each fire leaves behind a unique “signature” resulting from what fueled the fire. We pretest to ensure the use of the most effective smoke removal method. Here are some examples of smoke removal equipment we use:
Air Scrubber or Filter
A heating, ventilation, air conditioning system (HVAC) air scrubber or a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) air purifier can capture larger smoke molecules. There will still be some residual odor from smaller molecules or surface residues.
Ozone Generator
An ozone generator is a fast and highly effective smoke odor restoration method. These machines emit ozone, which follows the same paths through the air as smoke and oxidizes any residual traces in the air or on surfaces.
Thermal Fogging
Thermal fogging is an intensive treatment involving fogging machines. After residents evacuate, smoke cleaning professionals fill a structure with petroleum distillates that neutralize odors and ventilate the area.
Hydroxyl Generator
A hydroxyl generator is a slower and gentler alternative to ozone. These machines rely on ultraviolet light to generate hydroxyl radicals that eliminate smoke odors. It will take about three to five days of continuous operation to achieve the same results as a single ozone treatment.
Vapor Modification
Vapor modification is another odor elimination method that relies on aromatic compounds and a blower or fan to neutralize smoke odor.
Call Us Today!
When your home or business in Buena Park has smoke damage, our local team in Buena Park is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 714-523-9119.
Franchises are independently owned and operated.
What To Do Until Help Arrives (Fire & Smoke Damage)
6/11/2021 (Permalink)
This home sustained fire and smoke damage due to a lit candle that fell onto the floor.
In the event of a fire or smoke loss in your home, here are some tips you can follow to minimize damage:
- 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.
- Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
- If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
- Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
- If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
- Wash both sides of leaves on houseplants.
- Change HVAC filter, but leave the system off until a trained professional can check the system.
- Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.
Final and easiest Tip:
Call SERVPRO of Buena Park at (714) 523-9119 to take care of the rest!
What You Should Know About Fires
7/2/2018 (Permalink)
Each fire is different, contact SERVPRO of Buena Park for proper cleanup.
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 Buena Park will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
- Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
- Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
- Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (714) 523-9119
What to do Until Help Arrives (Fire & Smoke Damage)
7/2/2018 (Permalink)
This home sustained fire and smoke damage due to a lit candle that fell onto the floor.
In the event of a fire or smoke loss in your home, here are some tips you can follow to minimize damage:
- 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.
- Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
- If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
- Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
- If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
- Wash both sides of leaves on houseplants.
- Change HVAC filter, but leave the system off until a trained professional can check the system.
- Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.
Final and easiest Tip:
Call SERVPRO of Buena Park at (714) 523-9119 to take care of the rest!
What NOT to do (Fire & Smoke Damage)
7/2/2018 (Permalink)
This home sustained fire damage due to an electrical explosion in the attic.
In our previous post, we provide suggestions on what to do until SERVPRO of Buena Park can arrive to assess fire and smoke damage. Now we would like to offer some tips on what NOT TO DO in the unfortunate event of a fire.
DON'T:
- Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Buena Park.
- Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Buena Park.
- Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
- Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water. (They may be contaminated.)
- Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
- Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.
Have questions? SERVPRO of Buena Park is just a quick phone call away! We can be reached at (714) 523-9119.
Your Fire Clean Up Experts
5/16/2018 (Permalink)
This home sustained extensive fire damage caused by an electrical malfunction.
What To Expect:
When we visit your home after a fire loss, we will scope the effected areas to determine the extent of the loss. We will always pretest affected surfaces to determine the type of smoke and which products will help us recover the area most effectively. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. If a fire has damaged your home, call us right away at (714) 523-9119 SERVPRO of Buena Park will treat you and your family with empathy and respect, and your property with care.
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 Buena Park 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.
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 – (714) 523-9119
What You Should Know about Fires
6/27/2017 (Permalink)
Each fire is different, contact SERVPRO of Buena Park for proper cleanup.
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
- Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
- Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
- The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Buena Park will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
- Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
- Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
- Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (714) 523-9119
What To Do Until Help Arrives (Fire & Smoke Damage)
6/12/2017 (Permalink)
This home sustained fire and smoke damage due to a lit candle that fell onto the floor.
In the event of a fire or smoke loss in your home, here are some tips you can follow to minimize damage:
1. Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
2. Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
3. Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
4. If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
5. Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
6. If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
7. Wash both sides of leaves on houseplants.
8. Change HVAC filter, but leave the system off until a trained professional can check the system.
9. Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.
Final and easiest Tip:
Call SERVPRO of Buena Park at (714) 523-9119 to take care of the rest!
What NOT to Do (Fire & Smoke Damage)
6/12/2017 (Permalink)
This home sustained fire damage due to an electrical explosion in the attic.
In our previous post, we provide suggestions on what to do until SERVPRO of Buena Park can arrive to assess fire and smoke damage. Now we would like to offer some tips on what NOT TO DO in the unfortunate event of a fire.
DON'T:
1. Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Buena Park.
2. Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Buena Park.
3. Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
4. Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water. (They may be contaminated.)
5. Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
6. Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.
Have questions? SERVPRO of Buena Park is just a quick phone call away! We can be reached at (714) 523-9119.
Experts in Fire Clean Up
5/1/2017 (Permalink)
This home sustained extensive fire damage caused by an electrical malfunction.
What To Expect:
When we visit your home after a fire loss, we will scope the effected areas to determine the extent of the loss. We will always pretest affected surfaces to determine the type of smoke and which products will help us recover the area most effectively. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. If a fire has damaged your home, call us right away at (714) 523-9119 SERVPRO of Buena Park will treat you and your family with empathy and respect, and your property with care.
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 Buena Park 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.
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 – (714) 523-9119
Buena Park Smoke and Soot Cleanup
6/24/2016 (Permalink)
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
- Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
- Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
- The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Buena Park will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
- Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
- Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
- Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (714) 523-9119