Risks of Poor Fire Cleanup

9/18/2023 (Permalink)

structural fire damage

It is very important to take proper steps in cleanup after a fire loss. Trying to clean yourself or hire an unexperienced professional can cause more damage to your home. 

Damages are not always visible

Not all damage is visible to the naked eye. 

Smoke damage can cause significant damage to your home . Structure damage includes walls, ceilings and floors. It can cause odor problems from mold growth caused by moisture trapped in porous materials like drywall or wood paneling and furniture.

Professional help

Smoke Contains harmful chemicals.  If you don't know how to clean up after a fire yourself, hire a professional who does know how to do so safely.

If the smoke is not cleaned up correctly, it can become permanent. Smoke odor damages property value by devaluing homes on the market.

Poor fire damage clean up jobs can result in long-lasting damage

The first step in restoring your home after a fire is removing the smoke odor. The second step is removing any fire damage that may have occurred to your property, including drywall and other building materials. The third step involves making sure there's no mold growth on or around anything that was damaged by water or smoke during cleanup efforts. Finally, you need to make sure all of your belongings are safe and secure while they're being cleaned up by professional contractors who know what they're doing

Not taking the proper steps will cause potential more damage and additional costs in repairs to you as the homeowner. 

If you are suffering from a fire loss our professionals at SERVPRO of Kingston, Pittston City and Wyoming County are here to help. Our trained professionals will assist you and ensure proper measures are taken to restore you home. We are available 24/7 at 570-714-3828

Fire Tips

9/7/2023 (Permalink)

Fire Damage prevention tips

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (570) 714-3828

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake is available 24/7 for your emergency needs. 

Emergency Board Ups Following a Fire in West Hazleton

8/19/2022 (Permalink)

Here to help following a fire

Following a residential or commercial fire, a home or business owner is already dealing with the stress that comes from a situation like this. 

The key is to minimize any further damage to the structure and begin the restoration process as quick as possible. An Emergency Board Up is an important step in the restoration process. 

Why an Emergency Board Up?

1. Prevent Further Damage from entrance

Leaving the structure as is without boarding up can cause further damage to the building. Allowing foot traffic through can cause soot from the fire to deepen into carpeting making it more difficult to restore. Board ups can also keep outdoor animals from entering the building and causing more damage. 

2. Keeps Out Intruders 

When a structure is left open, it can attract intruders. If valuable belongings, salvageable items or electronics are still within the building, completing a board up will ensure these items are safe from burglary. 

3. Prevent Further Damage from Weather

Depending on the weather, the sun/wind/rain can also cause further damage to a building not boarded up.

Following a Fire, the emergency board up is an important first step in the Fire Restoration Process.

Have questions about the Emergency Board Up? - 570-714-3828

Commercial Fire in Hazleton

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

Following a commercial fire, we can help.

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are pre-qualified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size fire.

Every large fire loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely restoration. 

A commercial fire can cost a great deal of time and money. At SERVPRO of Hazleton/ Dallas/ Harvey's Lake the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. Let SERVPRO help your business be better prepared. Get the professionals, call SERVPRO of Hazleton/ Dallas/ Harvey's Lake at (570) 714-3828 for your commercial fire cleanup.

Fire danger awareness

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO was called to mitigate this fire in a residential home bathroom

Exhaust fans are a hidden fire hazard in our properties that could cause devastating outcomes for simple mistakes. Not only can exhaust fans cause fires that could result in thousands of dollars in property damage, but also risk the lives of our loved ones.

Exhaust fans are in many residences and properties to avoid damp walls and floors, as well as unwanted odors. Unfortunately, these fans can also be a fire hazard if they are not properly maintained. If not cleaned routinely, bathroom exhaust fans can collect dust and lint that can cause the motor to overheat. This can cause a fire that will quickly ignite not only the plastic blades of the fan but the surrounding structure. If left on for too long, even a small amount of lint build up could be fatal.

SERVPRO of Hazleton, Dallas, Harvey's Lake is available 24/7 for your emergency needs. We have trained professionals to restore your home. Call us today at 570-714-3828

Fire Damage in Hazleton

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Here to Help following a fire in Hazleton

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 a fire emergency, call SERVPRO of Hazleton, Dallas and Harvey's Lake. 

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
•  Faster to Any Size Disaster
•  A Trusted Leader in the Fire and Water Restoration Industry with over 1,800 Franchises
•  Highly Trained Fire and Water Damage Restoration Specialists

Commercial Fire Damage? Call Us Today 570-714-3828

Commercial Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

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. 

• Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

House Fire in Dallas

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

House fires are tragic. We can help restore your home back to pre fire condition.

House fires are tragic. They cause serious interruption to the life of the victims and many times relocation to a temporary residence is required while the home is being repaired.

SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake understands the stress, worry and disruption that comes from being a victim of a house fire. We work alongside your insurance company to help facilitate the claims process through the mitigation, restoration and rebuilding process.

There is a science behind the mitigation and restoration process of cleaning a house fire. We are an IICRC certified company with trained fire restoration technicians. It takes specialized equipment and training to ensure that your home is restored back to preloss condition.

In choosing SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake as your fire cleanup company you are getting a brand you know, a company you can trust and one with the knowledge and expertise to restore your home. 

Removing Odor after a Fire in Hazleton

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Making Fire Damage "Like it never even happened."

Restoring fires takes specialized skill. It's not as easy as simply cleaning and repairing. Soot and smoke permeate every inch of the affected area including all soft goods and porous materials. Once the odor gets trapped it will remain and remnants of smoke will continue to be noticeable.

The goal of any restoration company is to restore the property back to preloss condition. That means eliminating all the effects of the fire damage including odors. Walls, ceiling, floors, all furniture, contents (including electronics) and clothing must be addressed or risk having a lingering odor. 

Depending on the type of fire, cleaning it improperly will only embed the soot into porous areas causing further damage. All these are reasons to hire a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake. We have certified fire restoration technicians and the specialized equipment to restore your property back to preloss condition. - 570-714-3828

Emergency Board Ups Following a Fire in West Hazleton

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Call us for Emergency Board Ups.

During a fire at your home or business, windows and doors are commonly knocked out to fight the fire or damaged by the fire. In order to keep your property safe it's important to call a professional to complete your emergency board up. Below are the important reasons you should never leave your property not boarded up following a fire. 

1. More damage to your property from weather/outside sources. 

2. Theft 

3. Prevent unauthorized access to the building

4. Vandalism 

5. Keep animals out of the property 

Following a fire you may be feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Don't forget to call a professional to ensure your property is kept safe following a fire - 570-714-3828

HVAC Cleaning following a fire in Dallas

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Don't forget to have your HVAC System cleaned when restoring your property after a fire.

Following a fire at you commercial or residential property in Dallas, your HVAC system can potentially collect a number of particles including; smoke residue, soot, emissions from the fire and other contaminates common during building fires. HVAC systems can still collect these particles, even if the system is not in use. Your HVAC system can be greatly affected by these foreign materials. The performance and overall cleanliness of your HVAC system should become a priority following a fire. An HVAC cleaning should be completed as a priority following a commercial or residential fire. 

At SERVPRO of Hazleton, Dallas and Harvey's Lake, we can inspect the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC) following a fire. Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment. This can in turn save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe, especially following a fire.

Need your HVAC System Cleaned? - 570-714-3828

Fire Damage Restoration

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

demolition and debris removal preparing for restoration

SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake’s #1 goal is to restore your home or business to its pre-fire condition. 

There are several steps in this process to restore your property "Like it never even happened."

1) A restoration plan must be formulated 

2) The home or Business must be secured

3) Water must be extracted

4) Demolition must take place along with debris removal

5) Smoke damage mitigation and soot removal

6) Repairs and Restoration 

7) Renovation

SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's lake can be your single point of contact to oversee both the mitigation and Reconstruction for you.

Call us today at 570-714-3828

Commercial building fire damage

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damaged in local commercial nail salon

A fire broke out in a local nail salon. This picture shows the damage it has left behind.

SERVPRO of Hazleton, Dallas, Harvey's Lake was called and responded to assist. 

Beyond just the fire damage, smoke and soot can be toxic. Even if you contain a fire the smoke and soot can travel throughout a structure. 

At SERVPRO we have highly trained professionals with knowledge and tools to clean up fire and smoke damage. Our goal is always to mitigate the damage and best possible and restore your property to its pre-fire condition. 

We are available 24/7 at 570-714-3828 and here to help. 

Fire Damage

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hazleton, Dallas, Harvey's Lake called to customer fire

SERVPRO of Hazleton, Dallas, Harvey’s Lake was called to help a commercial customer with a fire loss. This can be devastating an often times overwhelming at the steps that need to be taken.  We are here to partner with you are committed to getting your business back up and running as soon as possible. 

We can assist you with mitigation the damage but can also assist with the reconstruction so you can have a single point of contact to get your business on track again. 

Call us today at 570-714-3828 24/7 with any questions or emergency needs. Our goal is to ensure customer satisfaction and to open your doors again "Like it never even happened."

Fire Damage in your Hazleton Residence

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

Kitchen is the most common room in a house a fire starts

Home fires can be devastating. Following some basic and simple fire prevention tips and being aware of some common house fire causes can help reduce the risk of a fire in your home. 

1) Be sure to install smoke alarms on all levels of your home or building structure. Smoke alarms should be tested monthly and if not working should have the batteries changed. 

2) One of the most common areas fires begin in a home is in the kitchen. It is important to be sure you do not leave anything flammable near or on your stove. Do not rest any cookbooks or towels on top of your stove. 

3) Another common cause of a house fire is caused by home space heaters and baseboard heaters.  It is important to never leave items too close while the heaters are running. Always follow the instructions for each heating device.

4) Candles should never be left unattended. Keep all matches and lighters away for children's reach. 

5) Do not overload extension cords and power strips

6) You and your family should make and practice a fire escape plan. Clear all clutter that can become an obstacle to escape. 

Should you find yourself in a situation with a home fire it is important to get out and stay out of the house!

SERVPRO Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey’s Lake is here to help with your mitigation and fire damage. We are available 24/7 for your emergency needs. Call us today at 570-714-3828  

Fire Damage in Hazleton

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Fire & Water Cleanup

A house fire can be terrifying. Big or small a fire requires work to clean and restore your home.  This can be an incredibly stressful time; however, it is important to take care of the damage and repairs timely to avoid structural damage.  It is important to have a trusted Restoration company who can be onsite quickly and start making repairs to your home.

SERVPRO Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake technicians have the specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call SERVPRO Hazleton/Dallas/ Harvey's Lake 570-714-3828

Grilling Safety Tips in Lehman

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Grill safely this Season!

After a very active Winter, it's so exciting to think about the idea of grilling outside. As the weather breaks and we have the opportunity to get outside to grill, please keep in mind these safety tips below. 

1. Grill outside and away from any structures

Charcoal and gas grills are designed for outdoor use only. However, NFPA reports that more than one-quarter (27%) of home fires started by outdoor grills began in a courtyard, terrace or patio, and 29% started on an exterior balcony or open porch. Pay attention to overhanging tree branches when you set up your grill.

2. Make sure your grill is stable

Only set up your grill on a flat surface and make sure the grill can’t be tipped over. Consider using a grill pad or splatter mat underneath your grill to protect your deck or patio.

3. Keep your grill clean

Remove grease or fat buildup from both the grill and the tray below the grill. If you are using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to completely cool off before disposing of them in a metal container.

4. Check for propane leaks on your gas grill

Before the season’s first barbecue, check the gas tank hose for leaks by applying a light soap and water solution to the hose and then turning on the gas. If there is a propane leak, the solution will bubble. Other signs of a propane leak include the smell of gas near the barbecue or a flame that won’t light.

5. If the flame goes out, wait to re-light

If you are using a gas grill and the flame goes out, turn the grill and the gas off, then wait at least five minutes to re-light it.

6. Take care around the grill

Never leave a lit grill unattended. Don’t allow kids or pets to play near the grill. Never try to move a lit or hot grill, and remember the grill will stay hot for at least an hour after use.

7. Be careful with charcoal starter fluid

If you use a charcoal grill, only use charcoal starter fluid. If the fire starts to go out, don’t add any starter fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire. Consider using a charcoal chimney starter, which uses newspaper to start the fire instead of starter fluid.

8. Wear the right clothing

Clothing can easily catch fire, so be sure your shirt tails, sleeves or apron strings don’t dangle over the grill.

9. Be ready to put out the fire

Have baking soda on hand to control a grease fire and a fire extinguisher nearby for other fires. If you don’t have a fire extinguisher, keep a bucket of sand next to the grill. Never use water to put out grease fire.

These easy-to-follow tips will help you and your family to enjoy a safe Spring/Summer barbecuing season. 

Source: Nationwide

Preventing Fires in Conyngham

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Here to Help after a fire.

Fires can cause a significant amount of stress and vulnerability in a home owner's life. At SERVPRO of Hazleton, Dallas and Harvey's Lake, we will go above and beyond to treat a home owner, their home and belongings with the utmost care. 

Our team of course can assist following a fire to provide restoration services, but it's important to take steps to prevent fires as well. 

1. Install Smoke Detectors 

2. Keep Space Heaters away from furniture, draperies and other objects.

3. Never leave a stove or candle unattended.

4. Never leave an outdoor grill unattended.

5. Keep an eye on electrical work over time. Always make sure your electric panels are up to date and not faulty. 

6. Water your Christmas Tree. 

7. Check on your dryer vent. 

8. Properly store flammable products. 

9. Maintain all electrical cords. 

10. Do not smoke inside. 

It's important to practice Fire Safety to prevent fires. Keep you, your family and home safe. 

SERVPRO is always Here to Help. 

Cooking Fire in Hazleton

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

The most common type of fire in the U.S. is the kitchen fire.

The weather has been cold this Winter, so many are doing some comfort food cooking. Whether you're a pro or new to the kitchen, it's important to remember fire safety. Emergencies can happen to anyone. Below are some steps to ensure safety while cooking this season. 

What you should know about home cooking safety

• Be on alert! If you are tired, don’t use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
• Call us at 570-714-3828 for fire damage restoration services. 

Source: NFPA

Here to Help following a fire.

Cleaning your HVAC System after a Fire

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Following a fire, don't forget to have your HVAC system cleaned.

Your HVAC system needs to be cleaned after a fire damage event even if it was switched off during the fire. The movement of air will carry smoke into the air duct system, causing soot to the ducts. Smoke is corrosive and debris will be absorbed into the HVAC system as soon as smoke enters the ducts.

Left alone, the HVAC system can distribute throughout the house and affect air quality. That is why it is so important to call in a professional to clean, as they know how and what to do to completely get rid of even trace amounts of soot and smoke damage in the HVAC system.

Importance of Cleaning your HVAC System 

• Most of the allergy-aggravating contaminants will be removed from your system
• Your HVAC will operate more efficiently and effectively
  • Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
  • May help to eliminate offensive odors.
  • Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.
  • Recognition from guests a very clean environment.
  • Eliminates soot in the HVAC system from pumping through your home.

NADCA’s rule of thumb for consumers is that “if your air ducts look dirty, they probably are,” and that dirty HVAC systems should be inspected by a reputable, certified HVAC professional. Without question, they are very dirty following a fire. 

We can quickly and efficiently clean your HVAC System

For more information on HVAC and air duct cleaning, call us today, 570-714-3828.

Emergency Service Fire Damage

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

Emergency board-up service for this homeowner.

Once the soot has settled and the initial shock wears off, the initial step of most insurance claims is the board-up process. This is part of the emergency services provided by SERVPRO. Firefighters will sometimes be forced to break windows to help air out the property from all the smoke, not to mention that the heat from the fire will also cause the glass to break.The board-up is completed in order to secure the property from theft and liability. It also helps ensure that the fire scene remains unadulterated until the fire inspector and insurance adjusters clear it.This home in Lackawanna County suffered heavy smoke, fire and water damaged and SERVPRO was called to secure the property before the work of restoring it back to preloss condition. Thank goodness the homeowner was able to escape but his home of close to 45 years suffered severe damage. SERVPRO has the expertise and specialized equipment to help this homeowner return to the house he loves. We serve the area with 24/7 service. If your property needs emergency service call Northeastern Pa. premier smoke, fire and water cleanup and restoration company at (570) 235-1646 for 24/7 assistance.

Unrestorable

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Several of these ornate features of this home cannot be restored.

Fire damage is a traumatic event. The loss of personal belongings, mementos and an overall sense of well-being that the damage brings is a very difficult situation to go through. As a professional restoration company our job is to help restore some of these losses.
Sometimes based on the amount of damage it is impossible to restore certain items. Older homes with ornate fixtures and specialized construction are at times the most difficult to restore. This home is a perfect example. It suffered smoke, fire and water damage and its restoration will be very unlikely. Its a unfortunate situation to lose the architectural and construction work throughout this home.
SERVPRO works off the restore instead of re-place principle but if replacement is required our construction crew can still help make it "Like it never even happened." Call the areas leader in smoke, fire and water cleanup and restoration at (570) 235-1646.

How To Put Out a Grease Fire

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

A grease fire which was extinguished by a chemical fire extinguisher. We did the cleanup and restoration.

The best way to avoid a grease fire is to not have one. While you are cooking, keep an eye on the oil as it’s heating. The oil won’t immediately catch fire once it starts smoking, but smoke is a danger sign that it’s well on its way to getting there.

If the worst happens and your oil does catch on fire, use the following tips:

1. If the fire is still small enough and contained in one pot, it is safe to put it out yourself. If it is already spreading to other parts of the kitchen, evacuate.

2. Turn off the source of the heat on the stove. Do not try to move the pot because you don’t want to accidentally spill or splash the burning oil.

3. Do NOT pour water on the fire! Since oil and water do not mix, pouring water can cause the oil to splash and spread the fire even worse. In fact, the vaporizing water can also carry grease particles in it, which can also spread the fire.

4. Remove all oxygen from the flame. You can cover with another pot or pan. Do not cover it with a glass lid because the glass lid may shatter.

5. If you can’t cover it, dump lots of baking soda on it.

6. Use a chemical fire extinguisher on the grease fire. There are different kinds of extinguishers. Not all can be used on a grease fire, but the ABC dry chemical extinguisher is best.

Hopefully you’ll never be in a situation where you have to actually use this advice, but if you are remember to smother the fire with a pot or baking soda and never use water!

http://safety.smart911.com/what's-best-way-safely-put-grease-fire/

Chimney And Wood burning Fireplace Safety

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Inspect your chimney often; have the chimney cleaned if there is 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch of creosote on the walls or lining.

A night by the fireplace will keep your heating bill lower and keep you nice and toasty. But wood burning appliances have become the largest source of heating-related fires in U.S. homes, so it’s important to understand how to safely maintain your chimney and fireplace.

Take the time to learn just what kind of chimney and fireplace you have. If you have a freestanding wood burner with a factory-built metal chimney, make sure to have a professional install it or follow the manufacturer’s specific guidelines, as those have been created using the appropriate national standards. Also, be aware of the proper placement of a fireplace in a room. Always have a floor protector below it, and have it extend at least 18 inches on all sides. You don’t want a loose piece of wood to pop out of the fire and end up on the nearby carpet or wall.

With a masonry chimney, always close the screen once the fire is lit. Be especially cautious with your young children, and don’t let them within three feet of any kind of fireplace. Stoke your fire with the poker and andirons, not other pieces of wood. And keep the chimney flue open to ensure that the fire is properly ventilation.

The most significant thing to consider in regards to chimney safety is creosote. This is a black tar-like residue that collects in the chimney flue from past fires. Creosote is highly combustible, and over time can accumulate thickly enough to start a chimney fire. For this reason, you’ll want to call a chimney sweep at least once a year before the heating season for a professional cleaning.
The sweep should fix any cracks, blockages, or leaks in the masonry or lining of your chimney that could present a future hazard. 

You can take precautions to avoid further creosote buildup. Only burn seasoned wood. Not all firewood is created equal. You’ll want wood that was cut the previous year and has been stored away since that time. This wood is dark or gray compared to freshly cut, unseasoned “green wood.” It is brittle, has cracks running through each piece, and is quite dry. It will produce the most heat and least amount of creosote.
Avoid slow, smoldering fires. Having more smoke than flame in your fireplace is never good. Reduce the smokiness by not burning newspapers or cardboard for kindling. Cut wood into thin sticks to get the fire going. Also, don’t use lighter fluid because it burns up quickly, leading to more smoke.
Burn everything up. Use a highly efficient fireplace that fully burns all the combustibles and turns everything to dust.

Removing Odors Following a Fire

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

Pictured is a hydroxyl generator which literally zaps the odor molecules and is used as an aide in eliminating smoke odors following a fire.

Restoring fires takes specialized skill. It's not as easy as simply cleaning and repairing. Soot and smoke permeate every inch of the affected area including all soft goods and porous materials. Once the odor gets trapped it will remain and remnants of smoke will continue to be noticeable.

The goal of any restoration company is to restore the property back to preloss conditions. That means eliminating all the effects of the fire damage including odors. Walls, ceiling, floors, all furniture, contents (including electronics) and clothing must be addressed or risk having a lingering odor. 

Depending on the type of fire, cleaning it improperly will only embed the soot into porous areas causing further damage. All these are reasons to hire a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Hazleton/ Dallas/ Harvey's Lake. We have certified fire restoration technicians and the specialized equipment to restore your property back to preloss conditions.

Don't attempt to restore your property. Hire a professional to ensure the job gets done properly. 

Don't Clean Soot Damage Improperly

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

This homeowner attempted to clean this ceiling with soap and water only to make matters worse. Grease fires require specialized equipment.

Following a small fire, many homeowners want to clean the damage themselves. While this is understandable, it is not recommended. 

Different types of fires require different types of cleaning. For instance, a protein (grease/kitchen) fire cannot simply be wiped clean. (see below) The soot will smear and embedded itself into any porous surfaces including wood and sheetrock making the damage worse. Soot sponges and specialized cleaning chemicals are required.

To make matters worse, as the homeowner you are responsible to reduce any secondary damage let alone damage caused by improper cleaning. in the event, you experience fire, smoke or soot damage always call a professional mitigation company to ensure your home gets restored a preloss condition. Contact SERVPRO's IICRC certified fire restoration technicians to properly clean your home following any fire disaster.

Fire Clean Up

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

A basket of muffins was left on a stove top which caused smoke damage throughout the house.

Accidents happen! That why we all purchase insurance. When a basket of home made muffins was left on a stove top oven, the result was this kitchen fire in Shickshinny. The homeowners were working and luckily, the neighbors heard the smoke detectors and were able to extinguish the fire before it spread and caused further damage. 

The homeowners insurance company called SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake to help return the property back to pre-fire condition. In this instance, the fire was relatively small but because it was not caught immediately the entire home suffered smoke damage. Restoration companies are called due to their skill in removing soot and odor from every nook and cranny of the home.

Cleaning a smoke damaged home requires specialized training, materials and equipment to properly restore the home and therefore insurance companies entrust restoration companies like SERVPRO of Hazleton/ Dallas/ Harvey's Lake. If your home experiences a kitchen fire like this one, call a professional at SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake and let us help you make it "Like it never even happened".

Board Up and Tarp Services

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

Secured the structure following a house fire. Board ups help reduce theft and reduce homeowner liability.

Following a fire, your home may need to be secured. The firefighters in the course of extinguishing the fire may have broken some windows for ventilation purposes or needed to bust the door down to do their job. It's possible the fire ripped through the roof leaving a void. 

As the homeowner, you are responsible to have the home secured. Theft is unfortunately not uncommon following a fire and should someone break in and hurt themselves, it falls back to you.

For all these reasons, SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake offers board up and tarping services to fire victims on an emergency services basis. We can secure the property and prevent any possible secondary damage immediately following the fire. 

Pictured below was a large scale tarping we completed for a homeowner in Dallas following a chimney fire. By securing the windows, doors and roof the homeowner was able to safely leave the property and work on securing a temporary residence while the home was being reconstructed.

Chimney and Wood Burner Fire Safety

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

A night by the fireplace will keep your heating bill lower and keep you nice and toasty. But wood burning appliances have become the largest source of heating-related fires in U.S. homes, so it’s important to understand how to safely maintain your chimney and fireplace.

Know Your Hearth
Take the time to learn just what kind of chimney and fireplace you have. If you have a freestanding wood burner with a factory-built metal chimney, make sure to have a professional install it or follow the manufacturer’s specific guidelines, as those have been created using the appropriate national standards. Also, be aware of the proper placement of a fireplace in a room. Always have a floor protector below it, and have it extend at least 18 inches on all sides. You don’t want a loose piece of wood to pop out of the fire and end up on the nearby carpet or wall.

With a masonry chimney, always close the screen once the fire is lit. Be especially cautious with your young children, and don’t let them within three feet of any kind of fireplace. Stoke your fire with the poker and andirons, not other pieces of wood. And keep the chimney flue open to ensure that the fire is properly ventilation.

Know Your Creosote: 

The most significant thing to consider in regards to chimney safety is creosote. This is a black tar-like residue that collects in the chimney flue from past fires. Creosote is highly combustible, and over time can accumulate thickly enough to start a chimney fire. For this reason, you’ll want to call a chimney sweep at least once a year before the heating season for a professional cleaning.
The sweep should fix any cracks, blockages, or leaks in the masonry or lining of your chimney that could present a future hazard. Inspect your chimney often; a good rule of thumb is to have the chimney cleaned if there is 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch of creosote on the walls or lining. In the meantime you can take precautions to avoid further creosote buildup. Only burn seasoned wood. Not all firewood is created equal. You’ll want wood that was cut the previous year and has been stored away since that time. This wood is dark or gray compared to freshly cut, unseasoned “green wood.” It is brittle, has cracks running through each piece, and is quite dry. It will produce the most heat and least amount of creosote.
Avoid slow, smoldering fires. Having more smoke than flame in your fireplace is never good. Reduce the smokiness by not burning newspapers or cardboard for kindling. Cut wood into thin sticks to get the fire going. Also, don’t use lighter fluid because it burns up quickly, leading to more smoke.
Burn everything up. Use a highly efficient fireplace that fully burns all the combustibles and turns everything to dust.

SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake, Northeastern Pennsylvania premier specialty cleaning company is proud of our relationship with State Farm insurance and is pleased to provide these safety tips. SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake proudly serves all of the Back Mountain/Western Luzerne County.

Dryer Fires- Lint Traps

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

Lint builds-up causing excessive heat and fire. Clean your lint traps after every use.

Did you know dryer lint is one of the leading causes of dryer failure and house fires? "How is this possible if you are clearing the lint from the filter between uses," might be a question you're asking. That is a great practice to follow, but by no means the only maintenance you can perform to keep your drying running smoothly. We are in the habit of making sure your home remains a safe haven for you and your family, especially concerning fire, as our recent campaign with the American Red Cross attests. So here are a few tips and reasons to go the extra mile when cleaning your dryer.

Yes, removing the lint from your dryer between uses is a great place to start. But did you know fabric softener can affect the usefulness of your lint filter? The next time you finish a load of laundry, remove the lint filter and clean it as you normally would. Next, run water over the filter and see if the water pools. If it does, your filter runs the risk of still clogging despite your efforts. It is an easy enough fix though so don't fret. Use a brush and warm soapy water and gently clean the filter. Try the water technique again until the water runs unimpeded. You are already much safer when running your dryer so congratulations!

Next, unplug your dryer and disconnect the vent hose / line from the dryer. This is where the majority of fires begin - in the exhaust duct. The buildup is usually higher in flexible hoses because of the potential for excess lint to get caught in the ridges. If you can switch from a flexible duct to rigid, we highly recommend you do. Your dryer and home will thank you! Depending on how often you run the dryer, we recommend cleaning at least once a year, but have clients who clean it every season. You can measure your needs based on how much lint you find when you clean, but back to the cleaning! Take your extendable brush and gently extend it into the vent and brush the lint back towards you - pushing it further just makes it harder to reach!

Ensuring the ducts are clean and clear of obstruction is an important step and checking the dryer drum is as well. This one requires a bit more DIY so if you are not comfortable, please call a licensed handyman. Removing the top or front from the dryer (based on where the lint filter is) requires removing a few screws. Once the panel is removed, you can brush and vacuum the drum, being careful around sensitive electrical parts. Make sure to get the lint under, around and behind the unit after cleaning.

Odor Removal After a Fire

12/24/2018 (Permalink)

Hydroxyl Generator uses ultra-violet light to eliminate odor molecules thus the smoke smell.

Restoring fires takes specialized skill. It's not as easy as simply cleaning and repairing. Soot and smoke permeate every inch of the affected area including all soft goods and porous materials. Once the odor gets trapped it will remain and remnants of smoke will continue to be noticeable.

The goal of any restoration company is to restore the property back to preloss condition. That means eliminating all the effects of the fire damage including odors. Walls, ceiling, floors, all furniture, contents (including electronics) and clothing must be addressed or risk having a lingering odor. 

Depending on the type of fire, cleaning it improperly will only embed the soot into porous areas causing further damage. All these are reasons to hire a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake. We have certified fire restoration technicians and the specialized equipment to restore your property back to preloss condition.

Don't attempt to restore your property. Hire a professional to ensure 

Home Fires are Tragic

12/24/2018 (Permalink)

A recent house fire in Hazleton. Fires are always tragic but around the holidays they become worse.

House fires are tragic! They cause serious interruption to the life of the victims and many times relocation to a temporary residence is required while the home is being repaired.

SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake understands the stress, worry and disruption that comes from being a victim of a house fire. We work alongside your insurance company to help facilitate the claims process through the mitigation, restoration and rebuilding process.

There is a science behind the mitigation and restoration process of cleaning a house fire. We are an IICRC certified company with trained fire restoration technicians. It takes specialized equipment and training to ensure that your home is restored back to preloss condition.

In choosing SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake as your fire cleanup company you are getting a brand you know, a company you can trust and one with the knowledge and expertise to restore your home. 

Proper Soot Cleaning

12/24/2018 (Permalink)

Soot on a kitchen ceiling following a grease fire. Proper cleaning ensures restoration to preloss condition.

Following a small fire, many homeowners want to clean the damage themselves. While this is understandable, it is not recommended. 

Different types of fires require different types of cleaning. For instance, a protein (grease/kitchen) fire cannot simply be wiped clean. (see below) The soot will smear and embedded itself into any porous surfaces including wood and sheet rock making the damage worse. Soot sponges and specialized cleaning chemicals are required.

To make matters worse, as the homeowner you are responsible to reduce any secondary damage let alone damage caused by improper cleaning. in the event, you experience fire, smoke or soot damage always call a professional mitigation company to ensure your home gets restored a preloss condition. SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake employees IICRC certified fire restoration technicians to properly clean your home following any fire disaster.

Board up and Tarp Services

12/21/2018 (Permalink)

Securing the structure following this house fire in Hazleton. Board ups help reduce theft and reduce homeowner liability.

Following a fire, your home may need to be secured. The firefighters in the course of extinguishing the fire may have broken some windows for ventilation purposes or needed to bust the door down to do their job. It's possible the fire ripped through the roof leaving a void. 

As the homeowner, you are responsible to have the home secured. Theft is unfortunately not uncommon following a fire and should someone break in and hurt themselves, it falls back to you.

For all these reasons, SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake offers board up and tarping services to fire victims on an emergency services basis. We can secure the property and prevent any possible secondary damage immediately following the fire. 

Pictured below was a large scale tarping we completed for a homeowner in Dallas following a chimney fire. By securing the windows, doors and roof the homeowner was able to safely leave the property and work on securing a temporary residence while the home was being reconstructed.

Christmas Tree Fires

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

This video from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) shows just how quickly this holiday season can turn from festive to tragic. A Christmas tree fire can turn devastating and deadly within seconds.

SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake believes being prepared is the key in avoiding disasters and we are pleased to share this information. We want everyone to have a joyous holiday season and avoid unnecessary disasters, so ensure your Christmas tree is properly hydrated.

However, if your home or business does experience a smoke, fire or water emergency know we are available 24/7, even on the holidays. SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake is the Back Mountains area's premier emergency services company proudly serving all of Luzerne County.

Please be cautious this holiday season and water your tree.

https://lnkd.in/ddEPgVf

Chimney and Wood Burner Fire Safety

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Chimney And Wood burning Fireplace Safety:

A night by the fireplace will keep your heating bill lower and keep you nice and toasty. But wood burning appliances have become the largest source of heating-related fires in U.S. homes, so it’s important to understand how to safely maintain your chimney and fireplace.

Know Your Hearth
Take the time to learn just what kind of chimney and fireplace you have. If you have a freestanding wood burner with a factory-built metal chimney, make sure to have a professional install it or follow the manufacturer’s specific guidelines, as those have been created using the appropriate national standards. Also, be aware of the proper placement of a fireplace in a room. Always have a floor protector below it, and have it extend at least 18 inches on all sides. You don’t want a loose piece of wood to pop out of the fire and end up on the nearby carpet or wall.

With a masonry chimney, always close the screen once the fire is lit. Be especially cautious with your young children, and don’t let them within three feet of any kind of fireplace. Stoke your fire with the poker and andirons, not other pieces of wood. And keep the chimney flue open to ensure that the fire is properly ventilation.

Know Your CreosoteThe most significant thing to consider in regards to chimney safety is creosote. This is a black tar-like residue that collects in the chimney flue from past fires. Creosote is highly combustible, and over time can accumulate thickly enough to start a chimney fire. For this reason, you’ll want to call a chimney sweep at least once a year before the heating season for a professional cleaning.
The sweep should fix any cracks, blockages, or leaks in the masonry or lining of your chimney that could present a future hazard. Inspect your chimney often; a good rule of thumb is to have the chimney cleaned if there is 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch of creosote on the walls or lining. In the meantimeYou can take precautions to avoid further creosote buildup. Only burn seasoned wood. Not all firewood is created equal. You’ll want wood that was cut the previous year and has been stored away since that time. This wood is dark or gray compared to freshly cut, unseasoned “green wood.” It is brittle, has cracks running through each piece, and is quite dry. It will produce the most heat and least amount of creosote.
Avoid slow, smoldering fires. Having more smoke than flame in your fireplace is never good. Reduce the smokiness by not burning newspapers or cardboard for kindling. Cut wood into thin sticks to get the fire going. Also, don’t use lighter fluid because it burns up quickly, leading to more smoke.
Burn everything up. Use a highly efficient fireplace that fully burns all the combustibles and turns everything to dust.
http://learningcenter.statefarm.com/safety-2/home-1/chimney-and-woodburning-fireplace-safety/#sthash.qAbgxA4d.dpuf

SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake, Northeastern Pennsylvania premier specialty cleaning company is proud of our relationship with State Farm insurance and is pleased to provide these safety tips. 

Are You Prepared for Heating Season?

10/2/2018 (Permalink)

This is an example of improper cleaning when the homeowner inadvertently embedded the soot into the sheetrock causing permanent damage.

Living in Northeastern Pennsylvania, when most of think of winter we think snow, ice and cold and all three of these weather phenomenons translate to heating bills. ChaChing!

Nonetheless a well functioning furnace will not only be more effective and save us money, it will also reduce the chance that it malfunctions and causes a puffback. I got my furnace services yesterday and would recommend that everyone do the same. It's the old adage that "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure".

A puff back occurs when a furnace misfires causing soot to expel from the floorboards (baseboard heat) or radiators (steam heat) covering everything in its path. Whether your furnace be powered by oil or gas it causes a mess. Oily clothes, furniture, childrens toys and kitchen utensils. 

A puffback is normally a covered loss and should be cleaned by a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake  because it requires specialized training and equipment. I can't tell you the amount of times a homeowner in good faith has attempted to clean his or her home with over the counter cleaning products only to make it worse. Don't make it worse and possible cause damage which is irreversible, call the professionals.

SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake has the specialized training and resources to safely clean your soot damaged home following a puffback. We are Lackawanna Counties leader in smoke, fire and water cleanup. 

Fire Smoke Cleanup -Shickshinny, Pa

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

A basket of muffins was left on a stovetop which caused smoke damage throughout the house.

Accidents happen! That why we all purchase insurance. When a basket of home made muffins was left on a stove top oven, the result was this kitchen fire in Shickshinny. The homeowners were working and luckily, the neighbors heard the smoke detectors and were able to extinguish the fire before it spread and caused further damage. 

The homeowners insurance company called SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harveys Lake to help return the property back to pre-fire condition. In this instance, the fire was relatively small but because it was not caught immediately the entire home suffered smoke damage. Restoration companies are called due to their skill in removing soot and odor from every nook and cranny of the home.

Cleaning a smoke damaged home requires specialized training, materials and equipment to properly restore the home and therefore insurance companies entrust restoration companies like SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harveys Lake. If your home experiences a smoky kitchen fire like this one, call a professional restoration like SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harveys Lake and let us help you make it "Like it never even happened".

Fire Restoration is an Extensive Process

12/14/2017 (Permalink)

Soot damage from a single apartment fire. Secondary damage is commonplace and is one reason fire mitigation is a costly process.

Fires are tragic. However when they occur around the holidays they become even more so. They disrupt the lives of homeowners, tenants and businesses and can causes thousands of dollars in damage.
One reason, that mitigating fire damage is so timely and costly is that usually there is smoke, soot and water damage resulting from the fire. Here you can see the amount of soot which gathered in the lobby of this apartment highrise after it suffered an apartment fire. Ironically, the actual fire was contained to a single unit but secondary damage to the building was extensive. If this is the damage in the lobby you can image what the adjacent hallways looked like.
Smoke and soot will permeate every nook and cranny of the affected area and without professional mitigation, completely removing the odor might be difficult. Restoration companies like SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harveys Lake have certified fire technicians who understand the properties of smoke, soot and odor and are able to come up with the proper remedy. We have the specialized equipment to manpower to handle a fire disaster that affects a large area. the cleanup process is extensive because every floor, wall, ceiling and items within the affected area need to be "touched".
Having the specialized equipment and trained personnel is just one reason SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harveys Lake is Luzerne Counties leader in smoke, fire and water cleanup and restoration. 

Board Up and Tarping Services

12/5/2017 (Permalink)

A large scale tarp up to secure this Dallas home following a fire.

Following a fire, your home may need to be secured. The firefighters in the course of extinguishing the fire may have broken some windows for ventilation purposes or needed to bust the door down to do their job. It's possible the fire ripped through the roof leaving avoid. 

As the homeowner, you are responsible to have the home secured. Theft is unfortunately not uncommon following a fire and should someone break in and hurt themselves, it falls back to you.

For all these reason, SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harveys Lake offers board up and tarping services to fire victims on an emergency services basis. We can secure the property and prevent any possible secondary damage immediately following the fire. 

Pictured below was a large scale tarping we completed for a homeowner in Dallas following a chimney fire. By securing the windows, doors and roof the homeowner was able to safely leave the property and work on securing a temporary residence while the home was being reconstructed.

Don't Clean Soot Damage Imporoperly

12/3/2017 (Permalink)

This homeowner attempted to clean this ceiling with soap and water only to make matters worse. Grease fires require specialized equipment to properly

Following a small fire, many homeowners want to clean the damage themselves. While this is understandable, it is not recommended. 

Different types of fires require different types of cleaning. For instance, a protein (grease/kitchen) fire cannot simply be wiped clean. (see below) The soot will smear and embedded itself into any porous surfaces including wood and sheetrock making the damage worse. Soot sponges and specialized cleaning chemicals are required.

To make matters worse, as the homeowner you are responsible to reduce any secondary damage let alone damage caused by improper cleaning. in the event, you experience fire, smoke or soot damage always call a professional mitigation company to ensure your home gets restored a preloss condition. SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/harveys Lake employes IICRC certified fire restoration technicians to properly clean your home following any fire disaster.