Efficient Fire Damage Restoration for Tarrytown Property Owners

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

For soil and soot removal after a house fire in Tarrytown, call SERVPRO. We have skilled technicians and equipment for fire damage restoration.

Call SERVPRO’s Fire Damage Technicians for Results in Tarrytown

The work is not done once emergency services arrive at your property and extinguish the flames. House fire cleanup or commercial fire restoration calls for many working parts and experienced personnel to get results. SERVPRO offers fire mitigation and repair to help you return your property to pre-fire condition. Where DIY methods can take a lot more time and not generate the same results, professional practices show proven results and save you money. When it comes to content cleaning, moisture mitigation, charred debris removal, and reconstruction, nobody beats our proven processes here at SERVPRO.

Even the most minor fire brings on costly fire damage in Tarrytown. We understand the recovery process and the requirements to help your insurance claim go as smoothly as possible. We can ensure the budget and timeline are met. SERVPRO is a preferred vendor and well-known within the restoration industry, making it “Like it never even happened.”

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster

But what does that mean? Once you contact SERVPRO’s customer care center, we begin mobilizing a crew of IICRC-certified fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) for your project. After first responders deem your property safe to enter and the blaze gets extinguished, you can expect:

• Inspection and estimation – Our crew chief examines all areas of damage to your structure. This includes the cause of the blaze, any accelerants, materials burned, moisture present, and more. This gets done to help formulate the best course of action for drying, cleanup, and reconstruction. 
• Safety and structural integrity – For our SERVPRO team to work, all possible hazards get addressed, including the strength and integrity of all building materials and structural components. 
• Protection – The SERVPRO crew wears standard personal protective equipment (PPE) for all restoration projects. Our attire includes coveralls, rubber boots, gloves, goggles, eye protection, and respirators. We also have disposable foot coverings (booties) we wear to limit the tracking of soot and soils into unaffected areas of your Tarrytown home or business.

Can My Contents Get Restored with Fire Restoration Efforts?

Many people attempting house fire cleanup will mistakenly throw out items thinking they are unsalvageable. However, SERVPRO technicians have experience using various cleaning techniques to tackle even the most heavily soiled furnishings and contents. We make your personal belongings a priority with specialized methods that may include:

• Detailed drying approaches to handle moisture and chemicals used to douse the flames
• Soft material wash stations for thorough cleaning
• Hard contents get put into a submersion tank for immersion cleaning
• Ozone chambers help to deodorize items thoroughly

SERVPRO is Here for Local Businesses Requiring Fire Restoration

Whether you run a busy restaurant or you have a manufacturing plant that employs hundreds of area residents, we are here for all of your fire cleanup needs. SERVPRO’s scalability and access to hundreds of pieces of equipment in our warehouse mean that no job is too big for us to tackle. As large loss recovery providers, we are here to help fully restore:

• Bakeries, restaurants, bars/pubs, commercial kitchens
• Schools, daycare facilities
• Office buildings and retail spaces
• Hospitals, clinics, laboratories, assisted living and nursing home facilities
• Production, manufacturing, and industrial facilities
• Government buildings, financial institutions

Thorough Reconstruction Using Controlled Demolition

We handle charred debris and dispose of unsalvageable contents and materials following local guidelines. Building materials get replaced after structural elements get addressed by trusted area contractors and vendors. Everything gets a thorough cleaning, deodorizing, and finishing touches to bring your home or business back to pre-fire condition. 

Request help online or call SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford at (914) 358-9000 whenever you require assistance with fire damage cleanup and restoration.

Expert Fire Restoration in Tarrytown

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides expert fire damage restoration for Tarrytown residents. Call now!

SERVPRO Gets Rid of Smoke Odor and Damage

Most homeowners experience a property fire at some point during their lifetimes. While most of these incidents are controlled quickly, getting rid of the damages can often be a lengthy process without the right knowledge and equipment. SERVPRO is a registered restoration service that can restore your home quickly.

Enlisting help with fire restoration for your Tarrytown home is a smart move. Smoke damages can come in various forms and require specific actions or equipment to remove. Using the wrong actions on smoke residues can cause them to spread around, leading to further damage. Equally, the variance of materials in your home -metal, wood, and plastic- uniquely responds to cleaning products. Some materials may become damaged by chemicals, whereas others may react badly to agitative action. Our knowledgeable technicians have years of experience working with smoke damages and a solid understanding of the processes required to remove them from your home efficiently and without risking further harm. We can help you with:

• Fire debris removal
• Smoke damage
• Odor Control

Another common problem caused by a fire can be the odor. Odors are volatile particles that can penetrate surfaces or reside in small cracks and crevices of the home. Some of these odors may depart naturally or during the cleaning process. Unfortunately, many odors remain after cleaning away the visible signs of damage. Since odors can come from many places, the natural approach to odor control is applying multiple techniques. Our technicians can place odor counteractant beads in areas with pervasive odor. We can use masking agents to cover burnt odors that may emanate from soft furnishings until the odor particles disperse naturally. If there is a severe odor problem, our technicians can fumigate the property to get rid of the odor.

• Ultra Low-Volume (ULV) foggers are used to fumigate large spaces quickly to remove fire odors. 
• Solvents that are vaporized in ULV foggers are known as chemical pairing agents. These particles bond with odor particles to neutralize bad smells.
• Deodorants released in the vapor can permeate throughout the property, including in light fittings, ducting, cracks, and other hard-to-reach spaces that may cause odor.

Respond to a property fire correctly. Contact SERVPRO of Tarrytown / Elmsford for fire restoration at (914) 358-9000 today.

Assessing Fire Restoration Services in Tarrytown

5/22/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration services by SERVPRO are second to none. Call now for fast and immediate service.

Tips for Finding the Right Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Team for Your Tarrytown Home

Fire damage can happen to Tarrytown homeowners in the blink of an eye. A sudden distraction that takes you away from the kitchen or something placed by accident on a still-hot stove can cause flames to erupt within seconds. Even if the homeowner or firefighters control the flames relatively quickly, smoke and soot travel even faster, leaving an unpleasant trail behind. The minutes following the fire are critical, and calling a fire restoration technician is the top priority.

To find fire restoration services in Tarrytown, you don’t need to look further than SERVPRO. As soon as you call our 24/7 hotline, the process begins, and our fleet arrives at your home to thoroughly assess the damage. Fire often involves damage thanks to the high temperatures and burning materials and damage caused by the water used to extinguish the flames. Our team of experts excels at treating both types of damage and counteracting the smell characteristic of home fires.

If you have never interacted with a fire and smoke remediation team, you may be unsure of what to ask. Aside from finding a certified team like ours (certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification), it would help if you are looking for experts who focus on the following-

• Removing soot from surfaces with specialized equipment before treating surfaces with solvents and cleaning solutions
• Using the latest tools to apply cleaning solutions and mechanically loosen particles trapped in furniture, walls, and flooring
• Deodorizing your home with thermal foggers, ozone generators, and odor counteracting pellets that neutralize and kill smell particles

When you want a team of experts to take care of your Tarrytown home, look no further than SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford. When you call us at (914) 358-9000 and experience our level of service, you will feel “Like it never even happened.”

Recovering Dobbs Ferry Properties from Fire Damage

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

Board up, preservation, and fire damage cleanup needed in Dobbs Ferry? Call SERVPRO

House Fire Recovery in Dobbs Ferry

Picking up the pieces after a property fire can be a traumatic experience. At SERVPRO, we are here to help organize a restoration to ensure it is as efficient and causes as little disruption to your everyday life as possible. We achieve this by providing our technicians with industry-leading equipment and training. Our crew chiefs have experience dealing with properties with minor, moderate, or severe fire damage levels. The process begins with the careful examination of damages and is swiftly followed by the setting up of staging areas and delivering the equipment necessary to perform the restoration. We can help you with:

• Fire odor
• Smoke damage
• Fire restoration

Reversing fire damage in your Dobbs Ferry home is often possible without resorting to expensive replacement of materials or belongings. Restoration over replacement is a core part of a technician's remit. It can benefit homeowners because it reduces the expense and allows the return of sentimental belongings to a preloss condition. Restoration goals can include professionally washing textiles in the home or immersion cleaning for high-value items. Immersion cleaning involves submersing belongings in a tank of cleaning fluid and then using ultrasonic waves to generate pressure. The pressure works as an effective agitation method for removing microscopic soot or ash from the surface. 

• Agitative cleaning can be exceptionally effective on belongings that have high material density and, therefore, the ability to withstand aggressive action.
• Metal appliances such as stove tops or washing machines are prime candidates for agitated cleaning. They can often be finished with a proprietary polish to return them to preloss condition.
• When attempting agitative action on porous materials, they must be pre-tested on discrete areas to avoid inadvertently causing surface damage.

If a property fire damages your belongings, contact SERVPRO of Tarrytown / Elmsford for fire damage restoration at (914) 358-9000.  

Fire Damage Restoration in Tarrytown Necessitates Expert Help

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration is no easy task. Call SERVPRO for fast and immediate service for your home. 24/7 365 days a year we are here to help you.

Call SERVPRO to Perform Fire Damage Restoration in Tarrytown

I have fire damage in my residence and need assistance in removing the contamination caused by soot, toxic fumes, and smoke. Which firm can I trust to restore my home to its normal condition?

Making the right decision after a fire ensures the success of the restoration process. You can trust SERVPRO to perform fire damage restoration in your Tarrytown residence using cutting-edge procedures and equipment. Our insured and certified restoration firm can take the following steps to repair your home.

• Assessing the extent of the damage
• Protecting the property
• Debris removal
• Smoke damage clean-up
• Deodorization

Assessing the Extent of the Damage

Our SERVPRO team can inspect your property to assess the severity of fire and soot damage. We can also evaluate the destruction resulting from the water used to extinguish the flames. This enables us to discover the visible and hidden damage.

Protecting the Property

A fire can ruin the walls, roof, and windows leaving openings in your property. Our SERVPRO restoration crew can provide you with board-up and roof-tarp services to protect your property from intruders and damage from the elements of weather.

Debris Removal

We can carefully demolish the damaged materials and remove them along with other debris on your property.

Smoke Damage Clean-Up

Our SERVPRO team can use specialized products to remove soot from surfaces like floors, ceilings, walls, and personal possessions. For instance, our teas can vacuum heavy deposits of loose smoke particles and smoke webs from ceiling and wall surfaces. We can use the cleaning brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner to agitate residues from the surface.

Removing Odors

We can use powered sprayers to spray deodorizers directly onto affected surfaces. We often perform direct spraying in smoke deodorization on heavily-charred structural components or on carpets and fabrics. Direct spraying wets the surfaces we are treating. Therefore, we only use this method when discoloration is not an issue or is unlikely.

Call SERVPRO of Tarrytown / Elmsford at (914) 358-9000 to handle fire damage repairs. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Why Cleaning During Fire Damage Restoration of Tarrytown Homes Is Unique

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

For soil and soot removal after a house fire in Tarrytown, call SERVPRO. We have the skilled technicians and equipment

SERVPRO Is Prepared to Address Various Challenges When Cleaning Tarrytown Properties After Fire

One of the reasons you need to do restoration at your Tarrytown property after a fire incident is the severe soiling caused by smoke and other aspects. Therefore, even a small fire necessitates significant restorative cleaning processes to ensure the property regains its preloss condition.

The cleaning done during fire damage restoration of Tarrytown properties differs from other regular cleaning exercises. In most cases, you need help from a professional restorer like SERVPRO to manage many unique soiling challenges that develop.

Some unique soiling patterns after a fire include:

• Widespread residues even in concealed areas
• Residues adhering to surfaces
• Soils with varying chemical and physical properties
• Strong odors

Smoke is a collection of different-sized particles and aerosols, among other things. Since smoke spreads through convection currents, it deposits most of the residues all over the house on wall and ceiling surfaces and in concealed areas like the insides of closets or wall cavities. Cleaning requires lifting all the sooty residues. Our SERVPRO technicians are well prepared for this task since we combine several cleaning methods.

Common cleaning methods used against soiling from fire include:

• Vacuuming
• Dry cleaning with a special medium like chemical sponges
• Wet cleaning with detergents
• Specialized cleanings such as ultrasonic bath immersion or soda blast cleaning

Apart from reaching the widespread residues, using different cleaning methods is also beneficial in other ways. For instance, stubborn soils such as wet smoke residues are easier to manage. Wet smoke is a phenomenon that develops when the fire is not hot enough and thus smolders, producing thick, smeary residues. Better cleaning approaches also help diminish the pungent odors that fires leave in properties minimizing the work needed during the deodorization phase.

SERVPRO of Tarrytown / Elmsford puts all the necessary effort needed for successful cleaning during fire damage restoration. Call us at (914) 358-9000. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Fireplace on Valentine's Day Safety Crash Course

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

There’s something magical about the crackling sounds and dancing, the soft light of a fire on a chilly February evening.

There’s no arguing that a fireplace is the perfect romantic complement to any Valentine’s Day evening. There’s something magical about the crackling sounds and dancing, soft light of a fire on a chilly February evening. A poorly maintained fireplace can turn that sense of romance into one of terror if it causes the fire to spread. So this Valentine’s day, before you start that fire and sit by the hearth with someone special, take a moment to go over these tips to make sure your home is safe.

1. Have your fireplace cleaned and inspected regularly

According to the National Fire Protection Association, 28 percent of heating fires are caused by failing to clean equipment, especially chimneys. Over time, creosote (a sticky, flammable substance that’s released when wood’s burned) can build up in the chimney. If the creosote isn’t removed, a chimney fire can result. This is not only dangerous in itself, but it can also cause damage to the chimney, increasing the risk that flames will reach the frame of the house.

Debris such as fallen leaves and animal nests should also be removed since they can restrict airflow and cause carbon monoxide to back up into the house. 

If you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove, you should have the chimney professionally inspected at least once a year (before you use it). Ask for a Level 1 inspection, which involves a visual examination of readily accessible parts of the chimney. The inspector will ensure the chimney is sturdy and perform any necessary cleaning.

Have a gas fireplace instead of a wood-burning one? You should still get a regular inspection, as corrosive deposits can build up and prevent your fireplace from venting efficiently. Debris can block this type of chimney as well.

2. Burn only dry, seasoned wood

Properly seasoned firewood contains around 20 percent water. Freshly cut wood can contain up to 45 percent water, so it takes a lot of heat to get it to catch fire (which means less heat inside your house). Burning wet wood also creates large amounts of smoke and causes creosote to build up more rapidly.

To be properly seasoned, firewood must be cut to length and allowed to dry for at least 6 months (up to a year in damp climates) before being burned. If you’ve gathered a stockpile of wood, be sure to protect it from rain and snow. If you’re buying wood to burn, look for dark edges with visible cracks. Well-seasoned firewood’s fairly lightweight and makes a clear, sharp sound when clapped together.

Resist the temptation to toss wrapping paper, cardboard boxes, or foam containers into the fireplace. Paper and cardboard can cause flames to burn too high, while foam releases toxic smoke and particles into the air.

3. Make sure your damper’s properly adjusted

The fireplace damper is a plate or valve that controls airflow in your chimney. When the fireplace isn’t in use, keep the damper closed completely to prevent heat from escaping. When lighting the fire, open the damper wide to help create a good blaze and get smoke flowing up the chimney. Once the fire’s burning well, partially close the damper to keep in warmth while still allowing smoke to escape.

4. Install and regularly check carbon monoxide detectors

Burning wood creates carbon monoxide (a poisonous gas) — but this poses little danger if your chimney’s properly maintained and free from obstructions and if your damper’s letting smoke out. Nonetheless, it’s wise to install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors close to your fireplace as well as in your bedrooms.

In the event that you do have fire damage, it is best to know what the proper steps are to take in the situation to avoid further damage to your home. Take a look at the SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration Process:

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. When various materials burn, the soot and residue they create differ greatly and require a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

For more information on what steps you should take to begin the Fire Damage Restoration process and what SERVPRO of

Tarrytown/Elmsford can do for you, take a look at our website here. 

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call us today at (914)358-9000!

Sources:

www.SERVPROoftarrytownelmsford.com

http://blog.esurance.com/4-must-read-tips-for-fireplace-safety/#.Vri1T_krKM8 

Holiday Safety!

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Taking steps to prevent holiday fires can help reduce the risk, but there’s always a possibility of a fire. If your home suffers fire damage, SERVPRO®

The holiday season is an exciting time of the year for most families but that excitement can quickly be extinguished if a fire occurs in the home.  The U.S. Fire Administration says that almost 47,000 fires occur during winter holidays taking more than 500 lives.  The National Fire Protection Association and U.S. Fire Administration have found that 1 of every 22 home fires started by Christmas trees result in death and candle fires are four times likely to occur during the winter holidays.  These are only two of several frequent occurrences during the holiday season for too many families.  To help keep your family safe this season, below are some safety tips to follow.

Oh Christmas Tree Oh Christmas Tree…

Setting up the Christmas tree can mark the beginning of the Christmas holiday for many families. Unfortunately, if they are not properly set up and taken care of, they pose a large fire risk.

• Freshly cut trees are more resistant to ignition. So considering that while picking out the perfect tree for your home.
• Remember to constantly keep your Christmas tree watered and away from any heat source such as fireplaces, radiators, candles, or heat vents.

 Christmas lights, Christmas lights, lighting up December nights...

While holiday lights can add a fun ambiance to your home, it’s important to decorate safely. 

• Make sure to carefully inspect holiday light strings each year and discard any with frayed cords and loose connections.
• When replacing bulbs, unplug the light string and make sure you match the voltage and wattage to the original bulb.
• Be sure to remember to always turn off those beautiful holiday lights when you leave the house unattended or when you are going to bed.
• While purchasing light strings, extension cords, spotlights, electrical decorations, gas appliances, or carbon monoxide alarms, look for the certification mark of an accredited certification organization such as CSA International, UL, or ELT to ensure that the products comply with applicable standards for safety and performance.

Danger, Danger, High Voltage...

• Remember to never connect more than one extension cord together; instead you should use a single cord that is long enough to reach the outlet without stretching, but not so long that it can get easily tangled.
• Test your smoke alarms monthly to make sure they work, and be sure to install smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms on every level of your home .
• We recommend you use an outdoor timer certified by CSA International to switch lights on and off. Lights should be turned on after 7 p.m. to avoid the electricity rush hour.

Hanukkah, Oh, Hanukkah
Let's light the menorah...

If your family uses menorahs for Hanukkah, you could consider using an electric one to cut down on fire hazards. If you prefer traditional candles, just be careful.

Keep the menorah at least three feet away from flammable items, and make sure you place a non-flammable surface, like an aluminum foil-lined tray, underneath the menorah to catch the melting wax.

Hey good lookin' whatcha got cookin'....

The holidays don’t feel like the holidays without delicious food. While cooking always presents potential fire hazards, home cooking fires always spike up around the holiday season.

• When you have lots of cooks in the kitchen, it’s easy for things to get messy and confusing. However, a cluttered, chaotic kitchen is a hazardous kitchen.
• Make sure to keep flammable objects, like towels, packaging, and potholders, away from the stove.
• Communicate with everyone in the kitchen so you don’t leave the stove-top or oven on when it’s not in use.
• Wipe up spills quickly, and don’t let grease pile up around a burner.
• If a deep-fried turkey is on the menu, make sure you fry it on a flat surface outside at least 10 feet away from the house.

Try to remember…

• To help prevent CO hazards in your home, have an HVAC company perform a yearly maintenance check of your furnace and venting system, and clean or replace your furnace filter frequently during the heating seasons.
• Do not store combustible materials such as gasoline, propane, paper, chemicals, paint, rags, and cleaning products near your gas furnace. Gasoline or propane cylinders should be stored outside the home.
• The National Fire Protection Association recommends that chimneys be swept at least once a year at the beginning of the winter to remove soot and debris. 

Taking steps to prevent holiday fires can help reduce the risk, but there’s always a possibility of a fire. If your home suffers fire damage, SERVPRO® of Tarrytown/Elmsford can help.

We have the knowledge and experience to properly treat fire and smoke damage to make your home “Like it never even happened.” We offer 24/7 emergency service; call us anytime at 914-358-9000.

Tips for turkey frying during Thanksgiving

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

U.S. fire departments are responding to more than 1,000 deep fire-related incidents each year.

With the popularity of turkey frying increasing every year, people are at risk for fryer-related fires and injuries. U.S. fire departments are responding to more than 1,000 deep fire-related incidents each year. According to the National Fire Protection Association, deep fryer fires result in more than $15 million in property damage each year. Here are some rules to follow when deep-frying a turkey.

Don’t Deep Fry a Frozen Turkey Frozen turkeys are full of moisture. Make sure your turkey is completely thawed out because water and hot oil don’t mix well.

Don’t Let Oil Get Too Hot If you see your oil smoking, it is too hot. When oil gets around 400-425-degrees it can catch on fire by itself. So, when deep-frying a turkey most oils should stay around 350-degrees.

Don’t Use Too Much Oil When deep-frying a turkey a common mistake people make is putting too much cooking oil in their pot. Overfilling your pot can result in the oil spilling over into the flame on the burner. If you need to figure out how much oil you need try putting your turkey in an empty pot, fill the pot with enough water to cover the turkey. Once you remove the turkey mark the waterline.

Don’t Deep Fry Indoors You should never deep-fry a turkey in your house, garage, or deck. You should always deep fry a turkey in a yard away from anything that’s flammable.

Hopefully, this Thanksgiving will go smoothly. However, if a fire does occur and your home suffers fire damage, it can be especially devastating. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, your property may have substantial water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford has the specialized fire and water damage equipment and expertise to help you through this tough time. 

Only ONE Fire Matters to You

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

House suffered severe fire damage in Chappaqua, New York.

Did you know?

National fire statistics indicate that a residential fire occurs approximately every 90 seconds somewhere in the United States (U.S. Fire Administration). However, when you suffer a fire, only one fire matters to you.

Personal belongings are a treasure of life, and a reflection of hard work and achievements. Photographs, books, and other personal items have a value that cannot be put into words nor numbers. SERVPRO  of Tarrytown/Elmsford Professionals have the ability to help restore your belongings. 

Why do we try to restore versus replace?

• Restoration reduces claims payout and saves you money.
• In most cases, we are able to return belongings to pre loss condition.
• Many treasured belongings and keepsakes can be saved!

If your home or business suffers fire damage, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford at (914) 358-9000 immediately. 

We are working to make fire damage "Like it never even happened." 

What are grease Fires?

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

stove top

A grease fire happens when your cooking oil becomes too hot. When heating, oils first start to boil, then they'll start smoking, and then they'll catch on fire. Most vegetable oils have a smoking point around 450°F, while animal fats like lard or goose fat will start smoking around 375°F.  

In an Event Where a Grease fire occurs, here are some steps to put it out: 

Turn the Heat Off - Don't try to move the pot. You might accidentally splash yourself or your kitchen with burning oil. And that would be bad.

Cover the Pot with a Metal Lid - Fire cannot exist in the absence of oxygen. With the lid on (and the heat off), the fire should quickly consume all the oxygen and put itself out. Use a metal lid since glass will shatter.

Pour on Baking Soda - Baking soda will extinguish grease fires, but only if they're small. It takes a lot of baking soda to do the job.

Spray the Pot with a Class B Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher - This is your last resort, as fire extinguishers will contaminate your kitchen. Still, it's better than the alternative if the fire is getting out of control.

Get Out and Call 911 - If the fire does break out of control, don't try to be a hero. Get out and find a phone to call 911.

Fire Dangers and Safety Tips

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Firefighter pointing with fire behind him

Fire Dangers and Safety Tips

Want some great advice on how to keep your home safe from fire? Just follow these tips and suggestions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control's Division of Unintentional Injury Prevention:

• The most common causes of residential fires are cooking and heating equipment. When cooking, never leave food on a stove or in an oven unattended, and avoid wearing clothes with long, loose-fitting sleeves.
• Smoking is the leading cause of fire deaths and the second most common cause of residential fires. If you are a smoker, do not smoke in bed, never leave burning cigarettes unattended, do not empty smoldering ashes in a trash can, and keep ashtrays away from upholstered furniture and curtains.
• Keep matches and lighters away from children's reach. Safely store flammable substances used around the home, and never leave burning candles unattended.
• Install smoke alarms outside each separate sleeping area and on every floor of your home, including the basement.Working smoke alarms can reduce the risk of death in a residential fire by 40 to 50 percent. The CDC suggests smoke alarms with lithium-powered batteries and hush buttons. A lithium-powered battery can last up to 10 years, and a hush button allows you to quickly stop nuisance alarms that are caused by steam, oven smoke, etc.
• If 10-year, long-life smoke alarms are not available, install smoke alarms that use regular batteries and replace the batteries every year. (A useful tip to help you remember: In the fall, when you change your clocks to standard time, change your batteries!)
• Test smoke alarms every month to make sure they work properly.
• Make a family fire escape plan and practice it every six months. In the plan, discuss at least two different ways to get out of every room and designate a safe place in front of the house or apartment building for family members to meet after escaping a fire.

Who Will Put the Pieces Back?

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Entry way of the building destroyed by fire damage

SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford understand the feelings of frustration and overwhelming concern for how to properly handle a fire damage. Their priority is helping you and your customers regain control. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals also understand business closures due to fire damage don't just affect the business owner; they affect the employees, their families and the community. 

Preventative Tips: 

• Install smoke alarms outside each sleeping area on every level of a home
• Check Smoke alarms once per month and change the batteries at least once per year
• Plan an escape route and practice it at least twice a year

Pre Testing 

When a SERVPRO Franchise Professional arrives on the scene following a fire, their first step is to calm the customer's fears. The second step is to pre-test the smoke to determine what type of fire has taken place. Knowing the types of smoke and their behavior patterns is crucial 

• Wet smoke - Plastics and rubber.
• Dry Smoke - Paper and Wood. 
• Protein smoke- Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
• Fuel Oil Soot- Furnace Puff Backs. 
• Other- Tear gas, Fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue. 

Smoke and soot residue can damage carpet, upholstery and contents if not removed quickly and efficiently. In a fire-damage structure with soot on the walls and other surfaces, cleaning and restoration is less disruptive and more cost-efficient than replacement. 

Fire Damage Repair and Restoration

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Repair and Restoration

Fire Damage Repair and Restoration

There is nothing worse than a house fire. Not only are your house and belongings damaged but also there is often a risk to you and your family. Even after the fire has been dealt with, there is the aftermath of the fire to deal with. Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have specialized fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet. 

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Do you know what to do after a fire has been put out?

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

House after fire, kitchen covered in soot

Do you know what to do after a fire has been put out?

Follow the DO's below to avoid any further damage:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet. 
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.  
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Wash both sides of leaves on houseplants.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

Contact SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford for a quick emergency response. 

Thanksgiving Safety

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Pie split into percentage of home fires

We know that the kitchen is usually the heart of the home, and on Thanksgiving that is specially true. On a holiday that really brings families together in the kitchen, we want to remind you of some tips to keep in mind while you and your loved ones are busy prepping the big Thanksgiving dinner. 

10 Thanksgiving Safety Tips:

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stove top so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey, and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay three feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

Every year, fire departments respond to hundreds of home cooking fires on Thanksgiving Day and unattended cooking is the leading source of those fires. Click here to learn more about fire safety in the kitchen. Keeping these tips in mind on this joyous holiday will help you make sure you can enjoy the day with your loved ones and keep everyone in the home safe. 

We hope that everyone stays safe this Thanksgiving Day. However, if a fire does occur and your home suffers fire damage, it can be especially devastating. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, your property may have substantial water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford has the specialized fire and water damage equipment and expertise to help you through the tough times. 

Fire Safety during the Holiday Season

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

A dry Christmas Tree can erupt and consume all the oxygen in the room within 40 seconds.

With the onset of the holiday season, homeowners and business owners across the country will begin decorating their properties with festive lights, trees, candles and more. While these items can add plenty of charm and cheer, there are a few potential dangers your customers and loved ones should be aware of during the winter months. 

Candles alone cause an estimated 15,600 fires each year, causing 1,270 injuries and more than $539 million in property damage. December is the peak month for candle fires, and Christmas day is the peak day. More than half of all candle fires start because the candle is set too close to a combustible material. 

According to the U.S. Fire administration, Christmas trees account for an estimated 200 fires annually and cause more than $6 million in property damage. These fires can be easily prevented simply by keeping your live tree watered. 

Tips and statistics reproduced from NFPA's Web site. (2009)

Prevent Your Home From Fires This Halloween

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Carved pumpkin and candles

Halloween is a time for tricks and treats, but it's also a time to be cautious about fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), decorations are the first thing to ignite in more than 1,000 reported home fires each year. Here are a few things you can do this Halloween to prevent fires in your home from NFPA and the American Red Cross.

• Dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations well away from all open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters. 
• It is safest to use a flashlight or battery-operated candle in a jack-o-lantern, use long, fireplace-style matches or a utility lighter. Be sure to place lit pumpkins well away from anything that can burn and far enough out of the way of trick-or-treaters, doorsteps, walkways, and yards. 
• Remember to keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes.
• Use flashlights as alternatives to candles or torch lights when decorating walkways and yards. They are much safer for trick-or-treaters, whose costumes may brush against the lighting.
• When using a real candle to light your jack-o-lantern, make sure the candle gets blown out when you can't monitor it, especially when you leave your home.
• Always remember to turn off any running electric appliances before you leave home, blow out candles, and unplug fire hazards, such as lights, that might get too hot.

Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Week 2020

Did you know that cooking is the #1 cause of home fires and fire injuries? 

Fire Prevention week is October 4-10. This year's campaign is "Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen". The purpose of the campaign is to educate people about simple steps they can take to keep everyone in the home safe. 

Below is a cooking safety checklist you can use to make sure you and your loved ones are taking as many precautions as possible to prevent accidents:

• Does a grown-up always pay attention to things that are cooking?

• Does a grown-up watch the stovetop when he or she is frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food?

• If a grown-up must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, does he or she turns off the burner?

• Are things that can burn, such as dish towels, curtains, or paper, away from the stovetop?

• Are the stovetop, burners, and oven clean — no spilled food, grease, paper or bags?

• Are pot handles turned toward the back of the stove when a grown-up is cooking?

• Do children and pets stay out of the kid-free zone (3 feet or 1 meter from the stove) when a grown-up is cooking?

• Are containers opened slowly when removing from the microwave? Hot steam can escape from containers and cause burns.

• Does your family have working smoke alarms on every level of the home, outside all sleeping areas, and in each bedroom?

• Does your family have a home fire escape plan?

• Do you practice the plan?

To learn more about what you can do to prevent home fires and fire injuries visit firepreventionweek.org.

Fire Damage DO'S and DON'TS

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Residential house in Croton-on-Hudson suffered fire damage

SERVPRO is a Franchise company with over 38 years of leadership. Our track record of results has earned us trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon. 

SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford technicians are a team of specialists, trained to professionally clean your home and personal Belongings. 

What can you do before there is any professionals around to help? SERVPRO has some tips for you. 

Fire damage & Smoke DO'S

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Keep your hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas. 
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor. 
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures. 
• Wash both sides of leaves on house plants. 
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape Double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

 Fire damage & Smoke DON'TS

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service. 
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated) 
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage. 
• Send garments to the dry Cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor. 

These Emergency Tips will assist you in taking the proper action until your SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford arrives. 

Follow the DO's and DON'TS to reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration. Call SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford for any remediation help at (914)358-9000.

Structural Cleaning after a Fire

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford technicians are highly experienced in cleaning your structure after a fire.

Did you know?

National fire statistics indicate that a residential fire occurs approximately every 90 seconds somewhere in the United States.

A back drift of emotions often sweeps over the owners after a fire ravages a home. Fear, uncertainty, stress and doubt about the future of property can overwhelm the owner long after the flames have been extinguished and the smoke has cleared.

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. Our experienced SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford will pretest to determine the extent of damage, and then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your structure. 

If you experience fire damage, call SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford at (914) 358-9000 anytime day or night! 

Also, make sure to check out our other blogs on how to prevent fire damage. 

Tips: What to do right after a Fire or Smoke Damage?

7/17/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford

Experiencing a fire or smoke damage in your house is very stressful for the homeowner. Hopefully, you will never be put in the position of dealing with such a situation, however if you find yourself in this unfortunate position, follow some tips below to prevent further damage while awaiting the arrival of our highly trained technicians:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent further damage. 
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on carpeted traffic areas to prevent more soiling.  
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.  
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets and appliances then protect with a light coating of lubricant.
• Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting a SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford.
• Do not attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting a SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford.
• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire or water without consulting a repair service.

Fire Dangers and Safety Tips

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

House with the left side on fire

Fire Dangers and Safety Tips

Want some great advice on how to keep your home safe from fire? Just follow these tips and suggestions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control Division of Unintentional Injury Prevention:

• The most common causes of residential fires are cooking and heating equipment. When cooking, never leave food on a stove or in an oven unattended, and avoid wearing clothes with long, loose-fitting sleeves.
• Smoking is the leading cause of fire deaths and the second most common cause of residential fires. If you are a smoker, do not smoke in bed, never leave burning cigarettes unattended, do not empty smoldering ashes in a trash can, and keep ashtrays away from upholstered furniture and curtains.
• Keep matches and lighters away from children's reach. Safely store flammable substances used around the home, and never leave burning candles unattended.
• Install smoke alarms outside each separate sleeping area and on every floor of your home, including the basement.Working smoke alarms can reduce the risk of death in a residential fire by 40 to 50 percent. The CDC suggests smoke alarms with lithium-powered batteries and hush buttons. A lithium-powered battery can last up to 10 years, and a hush button allows you to quickly stop nuisance alarms that are caused by steam, oven smoke, etc.
• If 10-year, long-life smoke alarms are not available, install smoke alarms that use regular batteries and replace the batteries every year. (A useful tip to help you remember: In the fall, when you change your clocks to standard time, change your batteries!)
• Test smoke alarms every month to make sure they work properly.
• Make a family fire escape plan and practice it every six months. In the plan, discuss at least two different ways to get out of every room and designate a safe place in front of the house or apartment building for family members to meet after escaping a fire.

BBQ and Grilling Safety Tips

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

Fire and words" on average 8,900 home fires are started by grills each year"

Family cookout is always a pleasant way to kick-off the summer, but to keep your family and friends safe follow these general guidelines.

General grilling 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 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.

Propane grills

Before you use your grill:

• Check the major connection points between the gas (propane) tank hose and the regulator and cylinder, and where the hose connects to the burners. Tighten if loose.
• Check the gas (propane) tank hose for the potential (gas) leaks. To do that:
  • Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle.
  • Turn the propane tank on. If there is a gas leak, the propane will release bubbles around the hose (big enough to see).
  • If there are no bubbles, your grill is safe to use.
• If there are bubbles, turn off the tank and check connections, then have your grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
• If the leak doesn’t stop, call the fire department immediately.

When the grill is on:

• As you are cooking, if you smell gas, turn off the gas tank and burners.
• If the leak stops immediately, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
• If the smell continues, move away from the grill and call the fire department immediately. Do not move the grill.

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.

Source: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire/Cooking/Grilling/Grilling-safety-tips

Safety Tips for Burning Candles

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Red Candle burning

Safety Tips for Burning Candles

As we begin to welcome the Holiday Season, it is important that our families and homes stay safe. Published by the National Candle Association, the following are important tips to keep in mind when using candles.

• Never leave a burning candle unattended.
• Never burn a candle on or near anything that might catch fire.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.

HOW TO BURN A CANDLE SAFELY

BEFORE LIGHTING

• Before burning, always trim the wick to ¼ inch. You can use a wick trimmer, nail clippers, or scissors. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping or flaring.
• Always use a candle holder specifically designed for candle use. It should be heat resistant, sturdy, and large enough to contain any drips or melted wax.
• Burn candles in a well-ventilated room.
• Keep the wax pool clear of wick trimmings, matches and debris at all times.

WHILE BURNING

• Never touch or move a burning candle. Never move a votive or container candle when the wax is liquefied.
• Extinguish a candle if the flame becomes too high or flickers repeatedly. Let the candle cool, trim the wick, and check for unwanted drafts before re-lighting.
• Always keep the candle within your sight. If you are going to leave the room, be sure to first blow out all candles.
• Be very careful if using candles during a power outage. Flashlights and other battery-powered lights are safer sources of light during a power failure. Never use a candle during a power outage to look for things in a closet, or when fueling equipment – such as a lantern or kerosene heater.
• Never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire. Keep burning candles away from furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, paper, flammable decorations, etc.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets. Do not place lighted candles where they can be knocked over by children, pets or anyone else.

WHEN EXTINGUISHING

• Make sure the candle is completely out and the wick ember is no longer glowing before leaving the room.

 *SOURCE: HOME CANDLE FIRES, FIRE ANALYSIS AND RESEARCH DIVISION, NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION, DECEMBER 2015. BASED ON 2009-2013 ANNUAL AVERAGES"