What Would It Take To Clean Fire Damage at Your New London Property

3/3/2024 (Permalink)

If a fire occurs in your home, contact SERVPRO immediately. Our certified technicians are ready to help get your home back to normal.

Variety Helps Ease Fire Restoration Efforts

New London blends a rich history with modern amenities, thus serving as a great destination for visitors and a unique place to reside. Historical architecture, including Federal, Georgian, and Victorian, adds charm and character to the city. The New London County Courthouse, built in 1784, uniquely showcases Georgian architecture. Waterfront attractions such as Ocean Beach Park and a vibrant culinary scene are another great draw to the city. Some worthy establishments include Fred's Shanty Restaurant for seafood, Recovery Room Restaurant for pizza and Italian food, and Tony's Caribbean Kitchen if you love Jamaican food.

You may experience fire damage at your New London property from unattended cooking, improperly placed space heaters, grease fires, or malfunctioning dryers and ovens. Containing these fires in time saves the property but leaves a significant cleanup workload. If you have never dealt with the aftermath of a fire incident, you may have difficulty figuring out what the task would take. That is why SERVPRO® is Here To Help® whenever such an unfortunate incident affects you. We also provide valuable insights to prepare you mentally in case of such eventualities.

Cleaning a fire-damaged house requires

• Cleaning equipment and reagents
• Equipment to access different property areas
• Trash and debris collection resources
• Protective gear

Soiling from fire residues is readily identifiable since it blackens structural areas and items. What you may not tell is the corrosive or hazardous nature of such residues. Limiting exposure from skin contact or inhalation with protective gear such as safety goggles, disposable gloves, and respirators can go a long way in ensuring a safe conclusion of fire restoration.

Smoke spreads unfettered around a property, depositing soot everywhere, including hard-to-reach areas. Attempting cleanup without appropriate equipment lengthens timelines. SERVPRO IICRC-certified crews fit telescopic extension poles to cleaning-sponges, easing access to high walls and ceilings. Poles are more convenient than cumbersome ladders. In other cases, cherry pickers may be necessary. 

Fire debris ranges from powdery materials like soot to chunks of charred panels and wood framing, so you need a robust collection and disposal approach. A vacuum cleaner sweeps up fine residues. Sealable trash bags and trash cans ease debris collection and temporary storage until proper disposal is done. 

SERVPRO of New London takes all essential actions to resolve fire damage. Call (860) 443-2222.

Learning Smoke Patterns Improves New London Fire Damage Restoration

5/4/2023 (Permalink)

If you find yourself in need of assistance with fire damage remediation, call SERVPRO.

SERVPRO Reliably Manages Fire Restoration in New London

Smoke residues cause a significant portion of the damages your new London property incurs during a fire. Unfortunately, smoke effects are not uniform in every incident, and even in one incident, they vary room by room which often leads to unexpected outcomes during fire damage restoration exercises. The general tendency is for soot to settle and adhere to surfaces but with varying degrees of intensity, which varies the soiling and staining levels.

When you understand how the smoke characteristics influence fire damage restoration at your New London property, you can make the necessary adjustments to ensure a positive outcome. It’s easier to make those adjustments when SERVPRO assists you since we have unique tools and skills to tackle different challenges. 

Factors influencing smoke damage:

• Smoke and surrounding surface temperatures
• Building space arrangement
• Magnetization or ionization

These issues may likely be outside your priority when resolving fire loss. However, the SERVPRO technicians handling restoration at your property have significant experience making it easier to notice the issues. For instance, the appearance of web-like soot accumulation, especially on room corners, signifies ionization which means the fire burnt synthetic materials such as plastics. In such a case, you may remove the soot easily, but addressing the pungent odors involved may require extreme effort. 

Evaluating Smoke Temperatures

Even after the fire is put out, a trained person can tell how hot the smoke and surfaces got during the fire. Higher temperatures open up pores in materials, thus extensively embedding smoke residues and making cleaning more challenging. Our technicians check for signs such as heat lines on wall surfaces, with the upper half accumulating more residues than the lower portion. In case of such signs, we look for ways to improve cleanability. 

Ways to Improve Cleaning Processes:

• Better surface agitation
• Heating cleaning solutions
• Using specialized detergents 

SERVPRO of New London improves fire damage restoration at every stage, including residue removal. Call us at (860) 443-2222. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How a Rapid Response Helps New London Fire Damage Recovery

4/7/2023 (Permalink)

Smoke, Soot, and Fire Damage in New London homes get the SERVPRO treatment--"Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Acts Fast for Fire Damage Mitigation

 Fires are widely destructive and compromising, so it is vital to have a team of technicians willing to respond fast to help. Our centrally located facility allows us to reach all of New London County rapidly after the first notice of loss.

New London fire damage can impact a range of structures, from the homes of nearly 30,000 residents to commercial facilities like Mitchell College. We work fast to help, having various trained professionals in niches like:

• Fire Restoration (FSRT)
• Odor Control (OCT)
• Water Restoration (WRT)
• Carpet Cleaning (CCT)
• General Contracting

When Can SERVPRO Enter the Property?

In many cases, our experienced team is notified of active fire disasters as they happen and can prepare to enter the structure as soon as possible. We must wait for the work of first responders to complete and their go-ahead to enter the building. As a preferred vendor for insurance work and the urgency of fire loss scenarios, we are often prepared to enter before getting cleared.

Early Fire Damage Mitigation

Mitigation is the combination of actions taken by our SERVPRO FSRT-Certified technicians to limit damage to the house and its contents after a fire or other disaster. Emergency services combine the talents of our experienced restorers and licensed contractors to meet the initial demands of the property. Some of the most common mitigative actions taken by our professionals include:

• Temporary Board-Up - This process sees our experienced contractors sealing over structural vulnerabilities to the outside to prevent secondary damage when water or animals enter a house.
• Debris Removal - Combustion creates ash, smoke solids, charred materials, and bulk collapsed structure in a residence. Debris removal is vital to increasing restoration completion time and limiting soot and odor concentrations.
• Controlled Demolition - When the structure poses an immediate risk to the safety of responding technicians or house occupants, our licensed contractors can perform needed controlled demolition services.
• Water Removal - With the high volume of water used to extinguish the blaze, many rooms of the house could likely be overwhelmed with water damage and the effects of the fire.

Setting Up Staging and Containment

After fire damage, loss effects can spread quickly in the house. Containment barriers and filtration equipment can help establish a set perimeter of a work zone. Similarly, we can create a staging area for equipment and content management to limit cross-contamination with undamaged areas of the house.

How Has Soot Damaged the Structure?

Soot is one of the more common byproducts of structure fires generated when fuels only partially combust. This incomplete burning is widespread, so soot generation can be heavy depending on environmental conditions and other factors. The type of smoke damage ultimately influences the needed cleaning approach to help resolve the issue. Some kinds of smoke damage include:

• Wet Smoke
• Dry Smoke
• Proteins
• Furnace Puffback

Rebuilding After Fire Damage

Few fire loss events do not require some form of build-back or reconstruction. With the expected repairs necessary after restoration, having a team licensed to complete this work can be beneficial. While many are still waiting to schedule openings for vetted subcontractors, SERVPRO continues to complete the steps that make it "Like it never even happened."

Between the coordination with insurance providers and the multiple layers of needed restoration and recovery following New London fire damage, it is necessary to lean on the experience of professionals. When you contact our SERVPRO of New London team, you get the full measure of the training our FSRT-Certified technicians receive to be knowledgeable assets in the field during emergencies. Call now at (860) 443-2222.

Smoke and Fire Restoration for New London Properties

12/6/2022 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of New London fix it, Don’t stress it.

SERVPRO's 24/7 Fire Restoration Saves New London Homes

Even a non-devastating, minor fire in your New London home or business can have extensive consequences. Some issues may not be visible to the average person. To fully identify and mitigate all adverse effects after a fire, you must call professionals to begin proper fire restoration efforts. SERVPRO is available in the area, offering 24/7 response to bring your property back to pre-fire condition. "Like it never even happened."

Structural Issues

During a fire, your home or business will likely have structural damage. With fire restoration in New London, we are always cautious upon entry, taking steps to ensure floor supports are intact. We handle all structural concerns before cleaning and further restoration to care for the safety of our SERVPRO crew and anyone else who may come and go throughout the reconstruction process.

Smoke Damage

The average person might be surprised that most smoke particles only measure about .004 microns in width. Their size makes it easy to work into all nooks and crannies, including porous materials like insulation, drywall, carpeting, and furniture. Many people who attempt DIY fire cleanup fail because of the challenges of addressing all smoke odors and residues. SERVPRO's Odor Control Technicians (OCT) come armed with the best tricks of the trade, including:

• Ultra-low volume (ULV) foggers
• Odor counteractant beads, pellets, or granules
• Air scrubbers with onboard HEPA filters
• Ozone generators
• Hydroxyl equipment

What About Water Damage?

In most cases, fires bring water damage due to dousing the building with water to put out the flames. Without immediate action to dry the interior, you risk costly damage and the onset of mildew and mold. SERVPRO handles all drying along with proper reconstruction and cleanup to leave your property as it was before the fire. 

Regarding fire restoration, nobody beats the team at SERVPRO of New London. Request help online or call our offices at (860) 443-2222 to mobilize a crew to your door. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster.

When Fire Restoration Can Be a Challenge in New London Homes

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

Fire restoration for your New London home should be handled by SERVPRO. We are the choice you want.

What Slows Fire Restoration?

The restoration process after a fire should begin as soon as possible. With how quickly fire loss effects spread from the ignition point through several house rooms, mitigation is critical to contain these conditions and prevent harm to the structure and its contents. However, some circumstances can slow down the recovery process.

Are Damaged Surfaces Wet?

Fire restoration for New London homes and businesses relies on understanding affected materials and the best approach to resolve the damage. One of the obstacles to this cleanup is a damp structural element or object. Wet environmental conditions or moist materials can influence the kind of smoke damage the house combats. Wet smoke is a challenge to remove, so SERVPRO works fast to manage moisture concerns before more areas of the house are impacted.

How Hot Was the Fire?

The heat of the fire can be an influential component of the cleanability of certain surfaces and materials. High heat disasters create turbulent smoke currents, impacting many exteriors as the fire rages. Pressure is also a consideration in these conditions, as the hottest fires can propel smoke solids at vertical surfaces with high velocity.

Composition of the Material

The type of material impacted will also make a difference in how readily they can be cleaned after fire damage. Non-porous materials are consistently salvageable, making some of the easiest building elements to restore after soot damage products like:

• Concrete
• Tile
• Synthetics
• Vinyl coatings

A Material's Age

Older building materials and contents can be a factor in the washability of impacted surfaces. The older these materials are, the more corrosive soot deposits can cause irreparable harm. Aging structure and contents are part of evaluating the property's damage when SERVPRO first arrives.

Fires can be stressful, but our SERVPRO of New London team has the knowledge, equipment, and certified restorers to help. Give us a call at (860) 443-2222. 

Understanding Smoke Damage for Fire Restoration in New London

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke damage restoration is no easy task. SERVPRO will be on-site within 4 hours of the initial call.

Smoke Can Be a Formidable Fire Restoration Hurdle

Fires are universally damaging and threatening situations for homes and businesses alike. Smoke can impact the home in many ways, both during the combustion of materials in the house and after the fire gets extinguished. Our focus as an experienced restoration company is to help manage the damage that smoke can do and return your property to preloss condition.

What is Smoke?

Fire restoration for New London properties centers around the impact of smoke. But what is smoke? This is a byproduct of combustion when burning materials decompose into gas and solid particles. This combination becomes aerosolized, and the particles stay suspended in the environment until they adversely impact the residence.

What Impacts Combustion Rates?

The pace at which materials burn and the degree to which these elements get destroyed plays a part in how much smoke and related soot damage SERVPRO professionals must address. Several factors can influence the combustion rate with materials, such as accelerants being introduced during the burn or atmospheric conditions causing fire to move at a slower, smoldering pace. The event conditions change the thickness and presence of smoke and soot after extinguishment.

Types of Smoke Damage

Understanding these various smoke types can show where specific restoration and cleaning approaches are best. The same methods are not ideal from one kind to the next and, in some cases, could result in irreparable surface impact.

• Dry Smoke - Produced by high heat fires, characterized by a thin and chalky residue.
• Wet Smoke - Moist, thick residual deposits that solvents must often remove.
• Furnace Puffback - Ionized soot damage from an oil furnace that often appears like black spider webs.

After fires, restoration should begin as soon as possible to overcome the many types of smoke damage. SERVPRO of New London can help. Call us today at (860) 443-2222.

Fire Restoration of Ceilings and Walls in New London Homes

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

Soot and smoke get everywhere during a fire. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 to assess the situation and start the custom fire restoration process in your home.

Sufficient Fire Restoration for New London Homes

After damaging fire loss incidents, the upper portions of wall assemblies and ceiling systems are heavily damaged by soot and smoke deposits. Addressing these concerns means cleaning up after these thick residues after understanding why these specific areas of the property are more prone to damage than others.

Behavior of Smoke

Considering the need for fire restoration in New London properties, it is important to note where our team expects to encounter fire damage. Smoke is a turbulent and violent presence while the fire rages and forces aerosolized solids upward under pressure through convection currents. The result is smoke damage adhered to building materials but rarely loose and removable with mechanical actions like dry vacuuming or brushing. Impacted areas of this pressurized smoke damage deposit include:

• Ceilings
• Wall Surfaces
• Flooring
• Contents

Cleaning Dry Smoke Damage

Dry smoke damage results from high heat blazes where combustion is complete with many building materials, leaving a combination of a thin, chalky residue and ash on other surfaces and contents. Clearing these deposits often requires special tools from our inventory, like chemical sponges that pull soils away from the surface.

Clearing Up Wet Smoke

Wet smoke is a far more challenging byproduct of fire damage. When moist conditions exist during a fire loss incident, resulting in a slower-moving smoldering fire, thick deposits result. Wet smoke must be dissolved or pulled from the surface with chemical processes like emulsification. Our IICRC-certified technicians have several solvents, cleaners, and detergents to help, after mechanical actions remove loose debris. 

Despite how fire impacts your home or business, overcoming the smoke and soot deposits quickly and directly is necessary. Smoke damage is one of the more formidable obstacles, regardless of the residue type. Our SERVPRO of New London FSRT-Certified professionals is ready to help with the cleanup and restoration of your property needs. Call today at (860) 443-2222.

The Cleaning Challenge of Fire Restoration in New London Properties

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

Fire restoration services by SERVPROO are second to none. Call now for fast and immediate service for your home.

What SERVPRO Does to Simplify Fire Cleanup in New London Homes

Various issues arise whenever there is a property fire. Many of these are considered severe since they can cause bodily harm or require high restoration costs. Most people do not regard cleaning after a fire damage incident as one of the significantly challenging issues. However, cleaning your New London home can prove challenging since it is a labor-intensive process, and the residues are widespread or deeply embedded in materials.

The challenges fire restoration in New London homes poses depends on the resources committed to the process. That is why professionals like SERVPRO manage the process since we rely on advanced equipment to complete many tasks.

Classes of specialized cleaners:

• Immersion cleaning
• Blast cleaning
• Pressure washing

Your home may require all the classes of specialized equipment to facilitate cleaning since fire produces different types of residues. Typical fire residues include wet smoke residues, dry soot, and embedded charring. A method like pressure washing or blast cleaning is suitable for removing embedded deposits from surfaces. However, since pressure washing introduces significant moisture levels, it is better suited for outdoor areas.

How Item Types and Materials Influence Cleaning

From a restoration perspective, the materials impacted by fires have various uniqueness, including item size and component materials. These variations can influence the challenges that you face when cleaning the property. In small items such as utensils, tools, and jewelry, soot readily coats their surfaces, necessitating cleaning item by item. When our SERVPRO technicians use ultrasonic cleaning, such tediousness is eliminated by dipping fire-damaged items in a tank and cleaning them at once.

Other difficult cleaning tasks

• Unfinished wood
• Old surfaces
• Delicate materials like acoustic tiles

The primary issue with old or unfinished materials is porous exteriors, so soot penetrates their surfaces, thus making the cleaning process a challenge.

Fire restoration has many challenges, but SERVPRO of New London can effortlessly help you navigate the process. Call us at (860) 443-2222. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

West Mystic Kitchen Fires Leave Challenging Fire Restoration

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires are very hard to handle. SERVPRO fire damage restoration techs have you covered from start to finish. Call now!

In West Mystic homes, grease or cooking fires must be cleaned professionally to return preloss conditions.

Flare-ups in the kitchen can be a common callout for our fire restoration team. Despite the extinguishment happening quickly and the bulk of effects in this room, there are a few threats to efficient mitigation and restoration solutions. We work fast to inspect fire-damaged kitchens and adjoining spaces to eliminate soot, clean up after suppression, and remove health-hazardous smoke solids circulating in the environment.

Thick Residue Deposits

Many formidable challenges prevent rapid fire damage restoration in West Mystic kitchens. The first of these overwhelming loss effects is a thick soot residue. Grease and protein residues must be managed through dissolving and emulsifying soil deposits. Solvents used to dissolve stubborn residues can protect the underlying substrates of cabinets, countertops, and wall systems.

Impact on Exposed Elements

Yet another substantial obstacle for our restorers is the immediate impact of high heat fires on exposed building materials and fixtures. Cabinets can have their finish destroyed by direct fire exposure, and blistering or peeling of cabinet bases can make their restoration impossible. Often, these impacted materials must get removed and replaced rather than cleaned and refinished.

Protein Fire Odors

Odors are another concern after fire damage in the kitchen. From the burned proteins in food involved in the fire to the grease or accelerant that amplified the situation, lingering odors are a significant obstacle for restoring professionals. We have multiple strategies to combat malodorous in the property, including:

• Counteractant products
• Surface cleaning
• Air filtration
• Hydroxyl machines

Cleaning up after a fire in your home can be a significant and substantial struggle for even experienced restoration professionals, given the number of surfaces impacted and the potential for spreading to new areas. Our SERVPRO of New London team can help fast when you call (860) 443-2222.

What Type of Smoke Damage Exists After a Fire in New London Homes?

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke and fire damage restoration services by SERVPRO are the best around. We will be on-site within 4 hours of the initial call.

Understanding the type of smoke damage in New London properties focuses on restoration efforts for efficient recovery.

With so many types of fires and various materials that can be combusted during the disaster, it is natural that restorers might encounter several compositions of smoke damage on the same job. Often one type is dominant, steering much of the needed cleanup practices. Our professionals rapidly evaluate the conditions of a property after fire damage to identify needed smoke damage removal tactics. 

What Type of Smoke Damage Are You Facing? 

The type of smoke and fire damage in New London homes makes a difference in the restoration strategy used to manage the condition. Some of these include:

• Dry Smoke – High heat fires with excessive pressure produce thin soils on surfaces with a chalky texture. 
• Wet Smoke – Slow burning, smoldering fires produce thicker, heavier, moist smoke particles that heap on surfaces. 
• Other – Oil furnaces and protein fires on stovetops can each produce unique soot and smoke residue challenges. 

Removing Dry Smoke Damage

With dry smoke being thinner and more manageable, removing these deposits is often a product of vacuuming and brushing away loose debris. Whatever is left adhered to the affected surfaces is usually removed using chem sponges. 

Cleaning After Wet Smoke

Wet smoke can be a substantial threat to homes because of how thick these residues become on surfaces. Moist or oily soot residues require wet cleaning solutions to dissolve or emulsify a coating of smoke soils after loose debris is managed and eliminated with mechanical actions like compressed air, vacuuming, and brushing.

Smoke damage can be a formidable obstacle for restoration professionals to face, so our SERVPRO of New London team gathers information on the condition of a property as soon as possible. With careful evaluation and leading recovery equipment, we can quickly mitigate loss after a fire. Call today at (860) 443-2222.

SERVPRO Saves New London Homes from Lasting Effects of Fire Damage

10/17/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration services. by SERVPRO are second to none. We are here to help, no matter the size of the disaster.

Can SERVPRO Effectively Combat Odors After Fire Damage to New London Homes? 

Combating odors after fire damage to your New London home can be challenging to say the least. Only professional restorers like SERVPRO have the necessary tools and equipment to neutralize such odors. 

SERVPRO techs use different approaches to combat odors after fire damage to your New London home, depending on the extent of damage and type of odor involved. Although the odor of a fire-damaged building decreases considerably once the smoke and soot residue is removed, deodorization is necessary in most cases. The actual deodorization procedures vary depending on whether the smoke residues are light, medium, or heavy.

How do SERVPRO Techs Deal with Heavy Smoke Odor Situation During House Fire Cleanup of Your New London Home? 

When the odor is caused by heavy smoke damage, SERVPRO techs may require additional deodorization steps during restoration. Severe smoke odors in hardwood furniture can be difficult to eliminate. SERVPRO techs use dry solvent deodorizers and activated oxygen (ozone) to combat such odors.  

Combating odors in confined areas such as attics also poses a significant challenge. The insulation and rafters in the attics are particularly affected by smoke residues. After ventilating the area, SERVPRO techs spray a water-based deodorant using a ULV fogger. If the odors are too intense, techs might also have to place a layer of new insulation over the old. Restorers also use thermal fogging to deodorize attics. Other deodorization methods include running an air scrubber with an activated carbon and potassium permanganate filter to remove gases and odors.

If smoke damage is detected in the HVAC system, techs often need to seal and thoroughly clean the system before applying any deodorizers. 

Call SERVPRO of New London at (860) 443-2222; our techs are available round the clock to help and assist you.

Need Help with Fire Damage to Your New London Home? SERVPRO is Just a Call Away

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration is no easy task. Let SERVPRO handle all the work from start to finish. Call now for fast and immediate work.

SERVPRO Protects New London Homes After a Fire Damage Incidence  

Handling the aftermath of fire damage to your New London home can be overwhelming. Hiring a professional fire and smoke damage restoration company like SERVPRO can help you get a grip on the situation and take that first step towards restoring your home. 

One of the most challenging issues for SERVPRO restorers after fire damage to your New London home is to clean up the smoke and soot residue left on various surfaces. While some residues resulting from smoke damage can be dry and relatively easy to clean, others left by burning synthetic material can be oily and sticky. SERVPRO techs use several approaches to clean the residue after fire damage to restore your home “Like it never even happened.”

Cleaning Methods That SERVPRO Techs Use During House Fire Cleanup in New London

The cleaning method that SERVPRO techs use to clean smoke and soot residue from your fire-damaged home in New London varies depending on the type of residue. Dry smoke residues can be easily dislodged with mild to moderate agitation using brushes and scrubbing pads. 

The oily and greasy residues, on the other hand, can be challenging. SERVPRO techs use various solvents to loosen the bond between the soil and surface. While water-based detergent solutions can emulsify some oily soils, others might need to be dissolved with solvents before restorers can remove them. 

Some of the toughest residues need to be chemically altered before SERVPRO techs can clean them up. Enzymes and bleaching agents can help in such situations. 

Call SERVPRO of New London at (860) 443-2222 for any fire damage issues.    

How Does Professional Assistance Change Fire Damage Restoration For West Mystic Homeowners?

7/16/2021 (Permalink)

Was your home affected by a recent fire? Team SERVPRO technicians are standing by 24/7 for your emergency call to remediate the fire damage.

SERVPRO Has the Expertise to Handle Any Challenging Tasks during Fire Damage Restoration

Fire can start from any section of the house, including bedrooms and bathrooms. One common cause of fires in unlikely areas is electrical malfunctions when cables short-circuit or appliances are used incorrectly. Restoring the damage left in your West Mystic home can be more challenging than you expect.

Several aspects can complicate fire damage restoration in your West Mystic home after an electrical problem. For instance, there is a need to strip off and replace all the electrical systems in the affected sections of the structure. Cleaning surfaces to remove soot and other residues may also prove challenging because of plastics, and other synthetic materials, burnt when a fire affects appliances. SERVPRO technicians are well prepared to handle these issues. 

Specialized skills are necessary when addressing:

• Fire and smoke damage
• Smoke remediation
• Water & fire damage restorations
• House fire clean up

SERVPRO professionals strip off wall and ceiling panels to facilitate the removal of cables and other electrical systems. Our technicians are well versed with controlled demolition tasks, so they use approaches that help save any salvageable materials. 

In case the damage is localized, there might be no need for demolition. However, restoration of surfaces caked with soot residues is vital. SERVPRO professionals are well versed with the principles of cleaning, thus easing the removal of embedded residues, "Like it never even happened." The main processes include the location of residues, identification of residues and the type of surface affected, capture and removal as well as proper disposal of such residues. 

The experience SERVPRO of New London has can simplify fire damage restoration at your property. Call us at (860) 443-2222. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What Are the Basics of Professional Fire Damage Restoration in West Mystic?

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has skilled IICRC certified fire and smoke damage restoration technicians to make a West Mystic home look, "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO uses research-based best practices for your West Mystic house fire clean up

When fire damages your West Mystic home, residues from the heat, smoke, and soot pose challenges. Homeowners who try fire and smoke damage restoration and cleanup without professional help can expose their loved ones to toxins created by the fire while failing to halt the progressive deterioration of structures.

How Do SERVPRO Experts Assess and Plan for West Mystic Fire and Smoke Remediation?

SERVPRO meets or exceeds the standards developed by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The SERVPRO team comprehensively considers your West Mystic home’s crisis and devises scientifically proven interventions to make it “Like it never even happened.” To ensure fidelity to the standards, we use the principles and elements of fire damage:

Principles of Fire Damage Cleanup

• Locate smoke residues with a thorough inspection of the affected area.
• Identify the characteristics of the smoke damage residues found.
• Determine the types of surfaces coated with the residues.
• Loosen, capture, and remove residues.
• Dispose of residues following local regulations for hazardous waste.

Elements of Fire Damage Cleanup

• Temperature -- technicians adjust temperatures to increase cleaning efficiency considering the product used and the durability of the soiled surface.
• Agitation -- technicians use various tools including towels, scrapers, brushes, water or air pressure, and ultrasonic vibration to loosen the residues and distribute cleaning products.
• Chemical action -- technicians match the cleaning product chemicals to specific residues, breaking the bond between residues and surfaces through dissolving, emulsifying, bleaching, oxidizing, changing pH, or digesting. 
• Time -- technicians calculate appropriate product dwell time for safe and effective professional cleaning and deodorization.

Have confidence in the SERVPRO of New London team when seeking cleaning of fire and smoke damage. Call (860) 443-2222 for a prompt assessment and emergency services.

Fire Damage Restoration Process in New London

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of New London with any fire damage restoration needs.

A fire event can be devastating for a home or business. Even after the flames are out, you may be overwhelmed by the damages. The fire may have compromised the structure of your building, soot and smoke damage can cover your walls and furniture, and you may even face water damage from the fire-fighting efforts. 

So, where do you start once the flames are out? Well, the answer isn't always straightforward as every fire damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution. But, the general process remains the same. The steps below outline our process for the 'typical' fire damage emergency. 

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action. 

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority 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 from All Surfaces

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 and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call SERVPRO of New London to restore your property back to pre-fire condition. We're open 24/7, 365 days a year to respond to your call. 

800-734-3213

What Is A Puff Back? How Can It Damage Your Home?

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

Puff backs can make soot come through your vents and into your New London home.

A puff back is a misfire in your furnace.

The issue is that a puff back can send soot throughout your home through your vents. If you wake up one morning and find soot coming out of your vents and covering your curtains, walls, and furniture – it’s likely that you’re experiencing the consequences of a furnace puff back.

Puff backs can also occur over time without you immediately noticing.

Every time your furnace ignites and misfires, it can send a small amount of soot through your vents which may slowly accumulate in your vents and around your home.

Puff backs can damage your home because:

1) The furnace is misfiring, and needs to be serviced

2) Your home may become covered in soot – and you are breathing it in as well!

If you experience a puff back this winter, call SERVPRO of New London to clean your home of all soot.

We are open 24/7 for emergency service!

Prevent Christmas Tree Fire Damage in Your New London Home

12/19/2019 (Permalink)

Stay safe from fire damage this holiday season with our Christmas tree safety tips!

It’s fun to decorate your home for the holidays, but holiday decorations like Christmas trees and lights can increase your risk for a home fire.

Did you know:

• More than one of every four home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.
• A heat source to close to a Christmas tree causes one in every four of holiday fires.
• Nearly half of all holiday decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source.

To prevent fire damage in your home this holiday season, SERVPRO of New London recommends following these fire safety tips.

1. If buying a real tree, choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. This will lower the risk of fire due to a dry tree.
2. Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source: fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights.
3. Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit. This is a fire hazard.
4. Add water to the tree stand and be sure to add water daily. A dry, dying tree increases risk of fire.
5. Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

SERVPRO of New London hopes that you will follow these holiday fire safety tips to stay safe this season and prevent fire damage to your home!

Source: nfpa.org

Prevent Electrical Fires - 10 Tips!

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

Gadgets mean appliances like this toaster

First. if you are in doubt, call an electrician.

1) Have an electrician check the breaker panel or fuse box and fix any damaged parts.

2) Have an electrician scrutinize the wiring.
Any old wiring should be replaced.

3) Be on the lookout for broken plugs or switches.

4) Don't overburden circuits.
Limit the number of gadget you use and plug them into the right outlet.

5) Don't “abuse” connections. To many overloaded plugs are dangerous.

6) Unplug gadgets when you're not using them.

7) Use superior electrical merchandise when changing out wires or other items.

8) Do not use gadgets that are damaged.

9) Make sure to put in smoke and carbon dioxide alarms where mandatory.

10) Don't plug a lot of gadgets into 1 extension cord. Only quality authorized extension cords that are made to handle the electrical loa should be used.

Let your local experts handle this. We can be contacted at 1-800-374-3213

5 proven smoke odor removal methods

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

Molecules are the answer

Scrub the air the HEPA way
Our smoke and fire damage restoration experts use a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Arrestor) to "scrub" the air. We use HEPA equipment from the first moment to the last stage of the restoration process. They're really effective and remove 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns and larger in size. These airborne particles create smells and need to be removed.

Thermic fogging
When you "fog" using a special deodorizer released through fogging. The benefit of thermal fogging is it permeates all of the areas. It pushes into areas behind floors and walls. Thermal fogging is the discipline of aroma alteration to countercheck smells for lasting odor removal.

Vapor modification
Vapor Modification uses a fragrant material gasified from a closed container. The material is distributed in the air using a fan or blower.

Ozone
This popular process removes smoke and odor molecules from the air, even hard-to-neutralize molecules of smoke from cooking fires. Ozone is a potent oxidizer.

Hydroxyl
The hydroxyl radical was 1st discovered by scientists in 1963. It’s called a “detergent” of the troposphere. Hydroxyl reacts with numerous pollutants and assists in demolishing them.

Let your local experts handle this. We can be contacted at 1-800-374-3213

Removing the smell of smoke in 3 steps

10/19/2019 (Permalink)

Get rid of the smoke smell

Three steps to fresh air

1. Remove the origin of the smell
First, remove the source of the smell. Remove all burnt units like drywall, furniture, cabinets, and contents that you cant salvage. Also do a deep, elaborate cleaning of all the items salvaged and materials. It's important to use the proper cleaning materials.

2. Clean any air ducting
Clean the ducting in the entire residence or business. Smoke, dust, and soot carry the smells and the sensory memory of the fire because the particulate matter remains inside the ducting system. Cleaning the heating, ventilation and airconditioning system at the beginning of the restoration procedure keeps re-contamination of the cleansed areas.

3. You need to remove the airborne smell
The VOC’s and PIC’s that create the odor stay in the air, so it's important to remove them from the air in order to remove the smoke smell.

We use an assortment of special methods to complete the smoke odor removal. The goal? — The absolute removal of the offending smoke smell.

Let your local experts (IICRC trained professionals) handle this. We can be contacted at 1-800-374-3213

New London Commercial Fire Damage

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be very devastating for a business or commercial property. In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, water damage caused by firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. Every hour spent restoring your business back to pre-fire condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.

If you have fire OR water damage, you can trust our team at SERVPRO of New London to restore your property back to normal. We will respond quickly and manage the fire restoration project through to its completion—getting your property business-ready.

We are available throughout Connecticut 24 hours a day to get your business back up and running. Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage with an emphasis on commercial services.

Do you have commercial fire damage? Call us today!

Trust SERVPRO of New London.

A Timeline of Fire/Smoke Damage

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

Professional restoration technicians know that damage increases and restoration costs escalate when the fire restoration process is delayed. When homeowners prolong the restoration of their home, they extend the effects brought on by the smoke exposure. Think it can wait? Check out the timeline of the effects of fire and smoke damage on a property:

Within Minutes: Acid soot residues cause plastics to yellow; small appliances located close to the source of combustion discolor; highly porous materials (marble, alabaster) discolor permanently.

Within Hours: Acid residues stain grout in bathrooms; fiberglass bath fixtures may yellow; uncoated metals tarnish, counter tops may yellow; finishes on appliances, particularly refrigerators, may yellow; furniture finishes may discolor.

Within Days: In time, acid residues cause painted walls to yellow permanently; metal corrodes, pits and rusts; wood furniture requires refinishing; vinyl flooring requires refinishing or replace­ment; clothing becomes soot stained; upholstery stains permanently.

Within Weeks: Restoration costs escalate tremendously. Synthetic carpet fibers may yellow or discolor permanently; silver plate is corroded permanently; glass, crystal, china may require replacement due to severe etching and pitting caused by prolonged exposure to acid soot residues.

Trust SERVPRO of New London with your fire restoration needs.

Fire Damage New London Leads to Water Damage

9/30/2019 (Permalink)

When your home or commercial building experiences a fire damage emergency in New London, you may also find yourself with water damage. In fact, water damage is an incredibly common side effect of  residential and commercial fires.

Water damage after a fire is nearly always due to firefighting efforts. When firefighters use water-based extinguishers to put out the flames, gallons and gallons of water are pumped into your indoor spaces. Other times during a fire, pipes and other plumbing fixtures may burst due to heat and lead to water damage throughout your home. No matter how the water damage occurs, it is important to address it correctly.

To ensure that your fire damage and water damage problems are properly remediated, be sure to contact a restoration company that services your local area. SERVPRO of New London will be able to professionally restore your home from any water and fire damage that has occurred.

Lingering Smoke Smell?

9/30/2019 (Permalink)

Why removing the smell of smoke after a fire is one of the most difficult processes

The reason?
The human nose, on average, includes millions of sensorial neurons. Humans understand odors because thousands of extremely delicate olfactory nerve cells in the nostrils trip an event deep in the limbic system of our brain. Once tripped, the brain generates emotional reactions and memories. Exposure to the smell of smoke triggers a prompt and automated emotional event. Because the sense of smell has the most prolonged remembrance of the senses, it isn't easy to block out a response once you’ve been exposed.

What is the origin of the odor?
We smell smoke after the fire is out, but what we’re actually recognizing is the tiny specks of uncomplete burning (PIC) and volatile organic compounds (VOC). The bigger, seeable material is called “soot.” Some of the smaller PIC’s are little more than 20 microns around.

When the PIC’s and VOC’s go airborne in the fire, we inhale them into the nose and lungs initiating a reaction. The materials get in and on everything. The PIC’s creating the smell get in all regions of your residence or company. They even conceal themselves in cavities underneath floors or behind walls. They must be treated professionally because an alteration in barometric pressure or humidity can release the particles again. This created the smell of smoke months later.

Prevent Home Fires

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent Home Fires

As per U.S. fire departments respond to a home fire every 86 seconds. That’s over 30,000 fires a month. Home fires can occur for a variety of reasons, but many are preventable. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires, accounting for over half of home fires, followed by heating equipment, electrical malfunction, intentional fires and smoking materials.

Home fires are not 100% reventable. Though, you can take necessary steps today to reduce your risk of home fires. Here’s how:

• Install and maintain smoke alarms on every floor of your home and within every bedroom. Roughly 50% of home fire deaths occur during the night while people are sleeping.
• Never leave food cooking unattended, especially deep fryers and other frying equipment.
• Avoid using portable and fixed space heaters, as heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fire deaths.
• Have a fire plan that gets you out of your home in less than two minutes and practice it.
• Avoid smoking in the house.

SERVPRO of New London is a trusted leader in the restoration industry. We provide 24-hour emergency service and are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. With the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs, we’re locally owned and operated and can respond immediately to your emergency.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Have Questions? Call Us Today

BBQ Fire Damage Restoration in New London CT

6/25/2018 (Permalink)

BBQ Fire Damage Restoration in New London CT

It’s summer now. There’s nothing like outdoor grilling. It’s one of the most popular ways to cook food. But, a grill placed too close to anything that can burn is a fire hazard. They can be very hot, causing burn injuries. Follow these simple tips and you will be on the way to safe grilling.

SAFETY TIPS

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

CHARCOAL GRILLS

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
• There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

In case if you need help with fire damage restoration, we are here to help. Contact SERVPRO of New London.

Electricity Safety Checklist

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

Electricity Safety Checklist

• Call a qualified electrician or your landlord if you have: 
  Frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers
• A tingling feeling when you touch an electrical appliance
• Discolored or warm wall outlets
• A burning or rubbery smell coming from an appliance
• Flickering or dimming lights

• Sparks from an outlet q Inspect your home for hidden electrical hazards. 
• Inspect your home for hidden electrical hazards.
• 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 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.
• Be sure that the bulbs in your lights match what is safe for the lamp. There should be a sticker that indicates the maximum wattage for the light bulb — such as use maximum of a 60 watt bulb.
• Light bulbs in the living area of your home, including closets, should have a shade or globe for protection. Light bulbs can get very hot and cause a fire if something that can burn is too close.
• Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) reduce the risk of shock by shutting off an electrical circuit when the circuit could be a shock hazard. Your home should have GFCIs in the kitchen, bathroom(s), laundry, basement, garage, and outdoor areas.
• Heat producing appliances such as a toaster, coffee maker, iron or microwave oven draw a lot of electricity. Plug only one heat producing appliance in each outlet to prevent wiring from overheating.
• Buy only appliances that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
• Arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) protect against fire by monitoring the electrical current in a circuit and shutting off the circuit when unintended arcing occurs. AFCIs should be installed in your home. If not, have a qualified electrician install them for you.
• Keep ladders away from overhead power lines, including the electrical service into your home.

Fire safety at homes !

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

Fire safety at homes !

Spring is when many people decide to open up their seasonal houses, cabins, and cottages. An important part of the preparation is gearing up for fire safety. Just like permanent housing, vacation homes are vulnerable to unsafe conditions.

By the time vacationers arrive at their seasonal homes, the smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms may no longer work and chimneys could be blocked.

Here are some safety tips:

• Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Install CO alarms outside each separate sleeping area, on every level of the home, and in other locations as required by laws, codes, or standards.
• Test CO alarms at least once a month.
• Pack extra batteries for smoke alarms and CO alarms in case they need replacing.
• Make a home escape plan. Practice the plan with everyone in the household, including visitors.
• Know the telephone number of the local fire department and the address and phone number of the vacation home.
• Chimneys and vents need to be cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional at least once a year.
• If you smoke, smoke outside. Use deep, sturdy ashtrays.
• If you are renting, contact the property manager, landlord, or fire department to be sure that smoke alarms and CO alarms are installed and properly working.

Fireworks are dangerous!

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Fireworks are dangerous!

Tell your community, the best way to protect their families is to not use fireworks at home. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends attending public displays and leaving the lighting of fireworks to the professionals.

Remember, fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious burn and eye injuries. You can help us prevent fireworks-related injuries and deaths. How? By working with a national, state or local organization where you live to promote fireworks safety in your community.

Follow these safety tips when using fireworks: 

• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
• Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don't realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals.
• Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
• Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
• After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.

Fire Damage Restoration in New London

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Restoration in New London

Fire damage can be very devastating for a residential or commercial property. In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, water damage caused by firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. Every hour spent restoring your business back to pre-fire condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If you have a fire emergency, call SERVPRO because we have the training, experience, and equipment to manage your commercial fire damage emergency. We will respond quickly and manage the fire restoration project through to its completion—getting your property business-ready.

Whether your need is removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can depend on SERVPRO of New London, CT to get the job done right the first time. We’ll respond promptly and make your workspace look its very best. Learn more about our Commercial Cleaning Services.

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of new London, CT has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

We are available throughout Connecticut 24 hours a day to get your business back up and running. Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying.

Fire damage? Call SERVPRO of New London today!

No Job Is Too Large

Are you looking for assistance to help your business or community recover?

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Are you looking for assistance to help your business or community recover?

If you can answer “yes” to any of these questions, this page may be able to help you. Here we offer a list of resources that are not just for individuals. You can find links to sites that also offer assistance for businesses, local governments, and communities for different types of situations.

Visit some of the sites below to see what you can find. Your path to disaster recovery may be able to start here.

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance – This site offers a list of all federal assistance programs open to the public. Search programs offered for any of the following by type, agency, or number:

• State (and the District of Columbia), local, tribal, and U.S. territory governments
• Profit and non-profit entities
• Special groups
• Individuals

(General Services Administration)

Grants.gov – Do you want to seek a grant? If so, this site is the place to go to find and apply for federal grants from over 26 agencies. (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services)

Benefits.gov – Are you looking for assistance that fits your unique situation? Just answer some questions in the “Benefit Finder” to find programs with federal partners that may be right for you. (U.S. Department of Labor)

National Resource Network – The Network is a diverse group of private and public sector organizations. Its purpose is to help distressed cities find and apply solutions to aid their economic recovery and growth. The Network offers their assistance through three core services:

• Support for Implementing Solutions,
• Access to Peer Networks and New Ideas, and
• On-line, On-demand Access to Expertise.

(U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development)

Community Recovery Management Toolkit – The toolkit is a resource for local officials and community leaders. It aims to provide resources to help manage the complex issues of long-term, post-disaster recovery. The toolkit compiles guidance, case studies, tools, and training. The information is grouped in four sections as follows:

• Organize
• Recovery Planning
• Managing Recovery
• Core Capability-Specific Resources

(U.S. Department of Homeland Security)

U.S. Government Services and Information - View a list of government services and information that can guide you to the help you need. You can find help online, in your local community, or in your state. (USA.gov)

Local Governments - Search for information about each city and town in the U.S. by state. You can use this information to find help after a disaster. (USA.gov)

State Governments - Find your state or U.S. territory government website so you can search for services or information. You can also search the websites of Tribal Governments. (USA.gov)

U.S. Postal Service Alerts - Find out if there are any postal service problems in your area after a weather-related or other event:

• Is your post office open?
• Is there mail delivery?

You can view residential as well as business alerts. If you need to relocate, you can also do your change of address online. (U.S. Postal Service)

Alternative Fueling Station Locator - Do you have a diesel, hybrid, flexible fuel (FFV), or other vehicle that uses alternative fuel? Use this interactive map to help you find fueling stations near you. (U.S. Department of Energy)

Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program - This program helps to conserve natural resources and aid watershed recovery after natural disasters. Both public and private landowners may qualify. You can find details for both EWP and the EWP Floodplain Easement Program (FPE) on the site. (U.S. Department of Agriculture)

Community Development Resources - Get information about community development by subject. Subjects include the following:

• Downtown Revitalization
• Economic and Rural Development
• Rural Tourism
• Tribal Communities
• Rural Libraries

Source: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/

Summer fire safety

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

Summer fire safety

Summer fire safety - Campfire Safety Tips

Every year everybody look forward to summer vacations, camping, family reunions, picnics, and the Fourth of July. Summertime, however, also brings fires and injuries due to fireworks and outdoor cooking. Encourage summer fire safety in your community with these tips.

Campfire Safety Tips

If you'll be spending the summer camping or just toasting marshmallows in the back yard, it's a good idea to educate yourself about campfire safety.

Follow Area Rules

Always follow the campfire rules for the area where you are camping or living. Some parks and towns prohibit fires, and these rules are there for a reason. Check the local regulations before you build your fire.

Know to Stop, Drop, and Roll

It is important to make sure that all members of your family know to "Stop, Drop, and Roll" if an article of clothing ever catches on fire. Instead of just talking about it to young children, practice the steps together.

Check Your Surroundings

Choose a location for your campfire where it will not spread. Never build a campfire near any dry leaves or grassy areas or under overhanging tree branches. Before building a campfire, clear away all shrubbery and vegetation from the area, dig a pit for the fire, and surround it with rocks.

Be Smart About Lighter Fluid

Do not store gasoline, liquid fire starter, or any other type of flammable liquid near the campfire. It's too easy for stray flames to ignite these materials.

Keep Your Fire Away from the Tent

Do not place your campfire near the tent. It should always be placed downwind from the tent. Only use tents made from flame-retardant materials if you'll be having a campfire.

Keep It Under Control

Do not build large campfires, even if they seem impressive. It's much safer to keep fires small so they are easier to control.

Stay Nearby

Never leave a campfire lit if there is no one to attend to it. If you're going to sleep for the night, always take the time to put the fire out.

Be Prepared

Never light a campfire if you do not have the means of extinguishing it. Always keep plenty of water and a shovel near the campfire to use in an emergency and to put the campfire out when you are finished using it.

Know How to Put It Out

To extinguish a campfire douse it with water, use the shovel to bury the fire with ash and dirt. Then douse the area with water.

Source : www.ovetoknow.com

Fire Protection during the Winter

11/28/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Protection during the Winter

Although winter comes as no surprise, many of us are not ready for its arrival. If you are prepared for the hazards of winter, you will be more likely to stay safe and healthy when temperatures start to fall.

As we know, many people prefer to remain indoors in the winter, but staying inside is no guarantee of safety. Take these steps to keep your home safe and warm during the winter months.

Winter is a time when household fires occur. It is a good time to remember to:

• Buy and install smoke alarms on every floor of your home
• Test smoke alarms monthly
• Practice fire drills with your children
• Install a carbon monoxide detector outside bedrooms
• Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that could burn, and turn them off when leaving the room or sleeping.

Fire Safety on 4th of July

6/22/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Safety on 4th of July

The best way to protect yourself and your families is to not light fireworks at home. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends attending public fireworks displays and leaving the lighting to the professionals.

A study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) shows that over 200 people on average go the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the months surrounding the July 4th holiday. Fireworks are awesome and fun to watch, but sometimes can be dangerous!  Please take a few moments to review the safety tips provided for you below:

• Observe local laws.
• Keep a bucket of water handy in case of a malfunction or fire.
• Read and follow all warnings and instructions.
• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks. Never shoot a firework at or near another person.
• Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves, and flammable materials.
• Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned. Douse and soak them with water and discard in a safe manner.
• Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially in a glass or metal container.
• Keep unused fireworks away from firing areas.
• Store fireworks in a dry, cool place. Review instructions for special storage directions.

Source : www.fema.gov