Enjoying the Cozy Glow: Fire Safety Tips for Your Backyard Fire Pit This Fall

Name: SERVPRO of Franklin County
Address: 2 Truman Court, Union, MO, 63084
Telephone: (636) 583-5200

10/23/2023 (Permalink)

As the leaves change color and the evenings turn cooler, there's nothing quite like gathering around a backyard fire pit to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of an open flame.

But before you light that first fire of the season, it's essential to prioritize safety. Here are some crucial fire safety tips to keep in mind as you embrace the cozy glow of your fire pit this coming fall:

1. Choose the Right Location: Select a suitable location for your fire pit, away from overhanging trees, structures, and flammable materials. Make sure it's on a level, non-combustible surface, such as concrete or gravel.

2. Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance between the fire pit and any structures or other flammable items. It's generally recommended to have at least a 10-foot clearance.

3. Invest in a Spark Screen: A spark screen or mesh cover is an excellent addition to your fire pit. It helps prevent sparks and embers from escaping, reducing the risk of nearby fires.

4. Use the Right Fuel: Stick to using seasoned hardwoods or manufactured fire logs. Avoid burning materials like treated wood, leaves, or paper products, which can release harmful chemicals and sparks.

5. Stay Attentive: Never leave your fire unattended. Ensure that someone is always responsible for supervising the fire, especially if children or pets are present.

6. Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy: Have a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand or water nearby. This can quickly control any minor flare-ups.

7. Be Mindful of Wind: Wind can cause sparks to blow in unexpected directions. Check the weather forecast before lighting your fire, and take extra precautions on windy days.

8. Safe Seating Arrangements: Arrange seating around the fire pit at a safe distance to prevent accidental burns. Ensure that seating is stable and not prone to tipping over.

9. Extinguish Thoroughly: When you're done enjoying the fire, extinguish it completely. Use water or sand, and make sure all embers are out before leaving the area.

10. Teach Fire Safety: If you have children, educate them about fire safety around the fire pit. Make sure they understand the potential risks and rules for safe behavior.

By following these fire safety tips, you can savor the warmth and beauty of your backyard fire pit this fall while keeping your loved ones and property safe. With the proper precautions in place, you can create cherished memories by the fire for years to come.

3 Things That Must Go After a Fire

9/15/2022 (Permalink)

After a fire, there are some items you may be able to salvage and restore. However, there are other items that you should throw away. If you’re not sure what is worth keeping and what you should get rid of, check out these three suggestions:

1. Makeup. After spending hundreds of dollars on the best foundations, concealers, and eyeshadow palettes, no one wants to trash some of their most valuable makeup. Unfortunately, the makeup you’d normally wear may no longer be in such good condition due to the high flame heat. Some of these products may have melted and are no longer usable.

2. Medication. If your medicine cabinet was slightly destroyed by the fire and smoke in the home, throw away the medication and talk to your physician about getting refills. Most physicians understand situations like this because it’s not safe to take medication that has been exposed to such heat in the first place.

3. Food. If food smells like smoke and soot is on it, toss it in the trash. You may not like wasting food you’ve purchased, but it’s simply not safe to eat any contaminated food due to the chemicals commonly used to put out fires. You never know if those chemicals are on certain products, such as your bread, crackers, and even your box of cereal, so don’t take any risks.

5 Prevention Tips For Fall Fires

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Keeping your family and home safe is important no matter the season. But fall brings more chances for safety to be compromised.

While autumn is a great time to light candles or build fires, there’s also an increased likelihood of a fire getting out of hand.

But, if you follow these tips, you can ensure both an enjoyable and safe fall for yourself and your loved ones.

Check Smoke Detectors and Fire Extinguishers
- The easiest way to stop a house fire is to make sure your house has preventative measures in place. Check to see if your smoke detector batteries are still working, and change them out if necessary. Also, make sure that your fire extinguishers still have liquid in them and are located in easily accessible places.
Caution With Candles
- There’s nothing like candles to put you in an autumn mood. But it’s important to be mindful when you are using them. Don’t leave candles unattended and keep them away from children, pets and flammable objects.
Fireplace/Pit Safety
- Similar to lit candles, you should never leave a fire alone. If you’re making a fire in a fireplace, use a screen to keep sparks and debris from getting out. When building an outdoor fire, be sure that the pit is on level ground. Keep the fire away from overhanging trees and close houses or buildings, and use wood that has been split and stored in a safe and dry environment for at least six months.
Safety With Space Heaters
- Space heaters should be surrounded by at least three feet of empty space. If your space heater requires venting, make sure you have vented it to the outdoors. Remember to turn space heaters off when you leave the house/building or go to bed. Review Your Safety Plan Look over your safety plan and remind your family (or co-workers in the case of an office safety plan) of the procedures to take in the event of a fire. Locate all possible exits and establish safe meeting places to head to after getting out of the house/building. To ensure greater success, practice a fire drill so that everyone is on the same page.

How To Deal With Smoke Odor.

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

Professional smoke odor removal is important not only to eliminate unpleasant smells, but because lingering smoke can pose a health hazard.

Exposure to particles caused by fires can be harmful to one’s health and should be dealt with as soon as possible.

There are a few steps homeowners can take while waiting for professional help.
• When it is safe to re-enter the house, circulate the air as much as possible. Open all windows and doors and use fans to ventilate the area.
• Mop floors and make sure everything dries thoroughly to prevent mold growth.
• Items made of brass and copper should be cleaned within 24 hours to prevent them from etching.
• Vacuum carpets to remove dirt and dust particles that trap unwanted smells.

To completely rid the house, one smoke odor removal process that is utilized is called thermal fogging, which is a procedure used by professionals.

Thermal fog is a process in which a fluid is vaporized and then condenses when it meets a cooler atmosphere temperature. The particles that are created are extremely tiny and mimic particles created by fire, heat and pressure. This technique is one treatment that is proven to eliminate odors.

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Franklin County is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors.

These odors can come from a number of sources both inside and outside a structure.
SERVPRO teaches IICRC technical classes in the proper removal of odors. Masking and other short cuts don't work when your odor problem is serious or persistent.

We have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor and determining the conditions in which it contacts any surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace.

The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call, and leave the restoration to us. 636-583-5200

Emergency Tips For Fire Damage

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

These emergency tips will assist you in taking proper action until SERVPRO of Franklin County arrives. Follow these DOs and DON’Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration.

DO:

Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into carpet and avoid tracking.
Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
Wipe soot from metal kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances.
If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
Remove soot particles from plants with a damp cloth. n 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.

DON’T:

Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Professional.
Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet, rugs or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Professional.
Don’t 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.
Don’t consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
Don’t 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.
Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

When fire and water damage take control of your life, SERVPRO® will help you take it back.

Holiday Season Is Here! Here Are Some Tips On How To Practice Safe Cooking.

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin County - Fire Damage Restoration Specialist Offers Franklin County, MO Families Tips on Cooking Up a Safe Holiday Season

Startling statistics underscore the need for caution in the kitchen.

Union, MO (Grassroots Newswire) 10/25/2018 -- Holiday party planning begins now for many families, and Jerry Alvey of SERVPRO of Franklin County, MO offers some important reminders to Union, MO residents to help ensure this season glows with the warmth of good food and good friends, and not with the glare of a devastating home fire.

“The holiday season is a time when many families plan big and elaborate meals for large groups of people,” says Alvey. “But all that cooking creates an extraordinary risk of fire. For a safe and festive holiday season, it’s important to understand that risk and take steps to minimize it.”

Cooking Fire Safety NFPA research reveals that in 2016, on average, U.S. fire departments responded to a home fire every 90 seconds. Cooking fires were the leading cause of these home fires and related home fire injuries and the second leading cause of related home fire deaths. Unattended cooking was the leading contributing factor in these fires.¹

“Union, MO families should keep these statistics in mind as the holidays approach. According to the NFPA, Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by the day before Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and Christmas Eve²,” says Alvey. “Families should also be aware that frying poses the greatest risk of fire the NFPA discourages the use of outdoor gas-fueled turkey fryers that immerse the turkey in hot oil^.3 This video graphically illustrates the danger these devices can pose.” https://youtu.be/j3rF8F0JQRQ.

Alvey offers these additional cooking safety tips from FEMA’s U.S. Fire Administration.⁴

Keep an eye on what you fry: If you see any smoke or the oil starts to boil, turn the burner off.
Stand by your pan: If you leave the kitchen, turn the burner off.
Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove so that no one can bump them or pull them over.
Wear short sleeves or pull sleeves up: 18 percent of cooking fire fatalities in 2016 were caused by ignited clothing.²
Keep a pot lid or cookie sheet nearby to cover a pan if it catches on fire.

“Taking common sense precautions like these and keeping kids and pets out of the kitchen during meal prep can help keep your holiday celebrations safe,” says Alvey. “The precautions you take could help prevent a devastating home fire, a tragic injury, or even the loss of life. While SERVPRO disaster response professionals are fire damage restoration specialists, they know how important it is to keep the focus on fire prevention because for some types of loss, there is no remediation.”

SERVPRO is an industry leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services. For more fire prevention and safety tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit www.SERVPRO.com.

Two Minutes

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

Technicians cleaning ceiling from fire damage

Fire damage? Call SERVPRO of Franklin County today.

Did you know that if a fire starts in your home, you may have just two minutes to escape?

The most effective way to protect yourself and your home from fire is to identify and remove fire hazards. 60 percent of house fire deaths occur in homes with no working smoke alarms. During a home fire, working smoke alarms and a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives.

Fire Safety Tips

If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL for help.
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
Test smoke alarms once a month, if they’re not working, change the batteries.
Talk with all household members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.

Fire and smoke damage is especially destructive. In many instances your Franklin County, MO property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts. We specialize in fire and water damage restoration; it’s the cornerstone of our business. We have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

We understand you may be feeling confused, stressed, and more than a little vulnerable. Our technicians will treat your family with empathy and your home with great care. Until help arrives, please refer to our Fire Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

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 differs greatly and requires 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.

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

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Franklin County is locally owned and operated and we are proud to be part of this community. We are also part of a national network of over 1,650 Franchises with special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large-scale fire, water, and storm disasters.

Soda Blasting: A Fire Damage Solution

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

Contents were removed from this fire damaged home. The next step in the restoration process will be soda blasting.

When you have a devastating fire in your Franklin County, MO home or business, there is much to consider. Water damage can be a concern, but smoke and soot damage will likely be throughout.

It’s important to hire a professional like SERVPRO of Franklin County when dealing with fire damage. We are certified in fire and water damage clean up and restoration and can prevent more damage from taking place.

Often affected surfaces are darkened with soot can be restored with a process called soda blasting. It is an effective cleaning solution for residential and commercial fire damage restoration projects. It uses sodium bicarbonate shot from a blaster on all affected surfaces. It removes the visible soot damage and effectively deodorizes the charred smell that lingers after a fire has been extinguished.

Soda blasting is a non-destructive cleaning method that is not abrasive and quickly removes ash and soot from walls, stone, and other materials without harming underlying surfaces.

The technique also has the following benefits:

Uses non-toxic materials – bicarbonate of soda and air – that carry no risk of exposure or form residue
Completely dry system eliminates water damage risks
Deodorizes as it cleans
Cleans quickly and completely
Portable and simple to set up
Non-reactive with many materials including metals

The negatives are few, such as shielding nearby plants. Soda blasting is a powerful took for safely restoring residential or commercial fire damage.

If your home or business has been affected by fire, smoke, or soot damage, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call 24/7. We are ready to help.

Grill Fires Can Turn Dinner into Disaster

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Our trained professionals are here to help you recover "Like it never even happened."

As the summer season approaches, local fire and disaster remediation company SERVPRO of Franklin County knows that the number of grill fires will increase, peaking in July. Charcoal and gas grills, barbeques are involved in an average of more than 5,000 structure fires each year and almost 5,000 additional outdoor fires. Beyond that, grilling accidents result in 19,700 trips to the hospital annually. Thermal burns account for 9,500 of those visits, and children under the age of five account for an average of 2,000, or 39 percent, of those burns. Families can take steps to protect their home from damage and their family from injuries and still enjoy home-grilled, summer meals.

Before you grill:

READY: Clean grill racks and grease trays. For gas grills, check the gas tank hose for leaks at the beginning of the season.
SET: Choose a safe, firm, level spot for the grill away from coolers, running children and pets, and mingling guests. Grill outside, never in a garage or under the awning on a deck, the eaves of your home, or low-hanging branches.
GO: Prepare the grill for cooking carefully. For charcoal grills, use a charcoal chimney with newspaper, a charcoal starter fluid, or an electric charcoal starter plugged into an outdoor-rated extension cord. For gas grills, open the lid before turning the grill on. If you smell gas after the grill is lit, do not try to move the grill. Get away from the grill and call the fire department.

While you grill:

SAFE ZONE: Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the hot grill, both while you are cooking and after you serve the food. Grill surfaces can remain hot for an hour or more.
SAFE TOOLS: Use long-handled grill utensils in good condition; avoid loose, flowing clothing; and wear flame-retardant mitts to adjust vents to help prevent burns.
SAFE COOKING: Keep the fire under control. Manage flareups by adjusting grill height, using grill controls, or spreading out the coal bed. Keep baking soda within reach to control grease fires. Watch for blowing embers and have a fire extinguisher, a garden hose, or a bucket of sand handy to extinguish spark triggered fires. Never attempt to move a hot grill.

Fire prevention is better than a cure. Fires and burn injuries caused by grills are not strictly a summer phenomenon. Nearly half of home grillers use their grill year-round, so it is important to keep these safety guidelines in mind all year long.

Home fires can be devastating, both financially and emotionally, because smoke and water damage often amplify the destruction to both the structure and its contents. Our trained professionals are here to help you recover "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO specializes in fire and water cleanup and restoration services and repair services, helping to remediate damage for both commercial and residential customers.

For more information visit our website or give us a call: 636-583-5200.

Fire Suppression Foam Cleanup

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

It was 9:30pm when we received the call that a small flash fire set a sprinkler off at a nearby factory. When we arrived at 10:30pm, we estimated 2”-6” of foam covering a 10,000sf area. The room was filled with non-moveable machinery and equipment. There was no actual fire damage, and the foam was non-toxic.

Normally, we would use our truck mounted and/or portable extraction equipment. However, we quickly realized that the foam was too thick, and this would not work. Using deformer chemicals did not work. We tried several methods, such as shoveling, vacuuming, and squeegeeing, but finally found that diluting the foam with water and pushing it to submersible pumps worked best. This made for a time-consuming removal. The foam kept oozing out of surfaces and under the fixed equipment. Crews worked on removing the foam all night, and by 8am it was under control. While most areas were clear it was obvious that the foam was still oozing out and would continue for some time. With approval from management, we agreed to get the foam time to finish oozing and come back to clean the remainder.

The next day we returned and spent 3-4 hours getting the remainder of foam up. The client cleaned their own equipment, had their fire suppression system recharged and checked. After a short interruption, they would be back in production with little time lost.

While this unique situation was full of challenges, we were able to help the customer get back to production quickly.

5 Winter Home Heating Safety Tips

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Be Aware of Flammable Materials

Keep anything that burns easily at least three feet away from fireplaces, wood stoves, furnaces and space heaters. Fires often spread past its origin point because the heat source was too close to something flammable. Make sure nothing is close to your heat sources to prevent a fire from spreading.

Service Your Heating System Annually

Hiring a professional to inspect and clean your heating system and chimneys can help ensure your safety. These checks should be done annually. You should also be active in checking the areas around the furnace and boiler.

Don’t Leave Space Heaters Unattended

25,000 house fires and more than 300 deaths are caused each year by space heaters. Never keep space heaters on when no one is around or while you are sleeping. Space heaters should be plugged directly into a wall, as extension cords or power strips can overheat and cause a fire.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Monthly

According to a study by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the first month of the year is the worst for carbon monoxide poisoning. House fires are also common after the holidays. It’s extremely important to regularly check that all your detectors have working batteries.

Fireplace Safety

Keep a screen over your fireplace to stop sparks from flying out. Let fire ashes cool before putting them into any covered, metal container. Also, ashes should never be kept in plastic containers. Keep all containers of ashes a safe distance away from your home.

Holiday Season or House Fire Season?

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

For many, the winter holidays are the best time of the year. With family gatherings, light displays and gift exchanges, it’s easy to see why people love it.

But did you know that December is the most likely month to have a house fire?

This holiday season, we at SERVPRO want to make sure you and your loved ones stay safe. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that the holidays will be filled with cheer instead of nightmares.

Tree Safety

According to the National Fire Protection Association, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 160 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year between 2014-2018. These fires caused an average of two deaths, 14 injuries and $10 million in direct property damage annually.

It’s important to keep your tree far away from any heat source, such as fireplaces, radiators, space heaters or candles. It’s also necessary to water your tree frequently, as a fire burns more quickly on a dry tree than a well-watered tree.

After Christmas, it’s best to get rid of your tree immediately, as there’s a greater chance of forgetting to water it once the holiday is over.
Dangerous Decorations

While we often think of Christmas trees as the biggest cause for fires as the biggest cause for fires during the holiday season, decorations can actually be more hazardous.

U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 770 home structure fires per year that began with decorations in 2014-2018, according to the NFPA. These fires caused an annual average of two civilian fire deaths, 30 civilian fire injuries and $11 million in direct property damage.

You can avoid one of these incidents by choosing flame resistant or retardant decorations.

When you’re putting up your lights, connect no more than three strands together, or a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs. If you notice any strings of lights with worn or broken cords, make sure to replace them.

After the holidays are over, bring your lights inside to avoid a potential accident and to make your bulbs last longer.
Careful Cooking

Besides Thanksgiving day, Christmas is the peak for home cooking fires. We know you don’t want to contribute to this statistic, so be sure to pay careful attention while you cook.

If you haven’t replaced your smoke detectors in a long time, remember to check your batteries. Also, be aware of where your fire extinguisher is located.
Caution With Candles

Candles caused a staggering 21 house fires per day from 2014-2018.

Candle fires take place most often in December, followed by January. Christmas is the peak day for candle fires with almost three times the daily average.

When you light candles, make sure they’re far away from anything flammable. Sixty percent of candle fires start when the candle is close to furniture, mattresses, curtains or decoration.

To reduce the risk of a fire, you can use battery-powered candles.

If your home or business experiences fire or water damage, know that SERVPRO of Franklin County is "Here to Help" even during the holidays. Give us a call 24/7: 636-583-5200.

Five Fall Fire Prevention Tips

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Keeping your family and home safe is important no matter the season. But fall brings more chances for safety to be compromised.

While autumn is a great time to light candles or build fires, there’s also an increased likelihood of a fire getting out of hand.

But, if you follow these tips, you can ensure both an enjoyable and safe fall for yourself and your loved ones.

Check Smoke Detectors and Fire Extinguishers
- The easiest way to stop a house fire is to make sure your house has preventative measures in place. Check to see if your smoke detector batteries are still working, and change them out if necessary. Also, make sure that your fire extinguishers still have liquid in them and are located in easily accessible places.
Caution With Candles
- There’s nothing like candles to put you in an autumn mood. But it’s important to be mindful when you are using them. Don’t leave candles unattended and keep them away from children, pets and flammable objects.
Fireplace/Pit Safety
- Similar to lit candles, you should never leave a fire alone. If you’re making a fire in a fireplace, use a screen to keep sparks and debris from getting out. When building an outdoor fire, be sure that the pit is on level ground. Keep the fire away from overhanging trees and close houses or buildings, and use wood that has been split and stored in a safe and dry environment for at least six months.
Safety With Space Heaters
- Space heaters should be surrounded by at least three feet of empty space. If your space heater requires venting, make sure you have vented it to the outdoors. Remember to turn space heaters off when you leave the house/building or go to bed. Review Your Safety Plan Look over your safety plan and remind your family (or co-workers in the case of an office safety plan) of the procedures to take in the event of a fire. Locate all possible exits and establish safe meeting places to head to after getting out of the house/building. To ensure greater success, practice a fire drill so that everyone is on the same page.

The Behavior of Smoke

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior of smoke. There are two different types of smoke: wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire.

SERVPRO of Franklin County professionals are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, we will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and its contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows your local SERVPRO® franchise professionals to focus on saving your precious items.

We know smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Our knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following points are additional facts you may not know about smoke.

Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Wet Smoke. (Plastic and Rubber) Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, and smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke. (Paper and Wood) Fast-burning, high temperatures; heat rises; therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue. (Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire) Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Fuel Oil Soot. (Furnace puff backs) While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, we can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.
Other Types. (Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue) Special loss situations require special care.

SERVPRO® of Franklin County professionals are trained to handle even the toughest of losses. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

SAFETY FIRST: Before the Feast

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

USING A PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER

A portable fire extinguisher can be a life and property saving tool when used correctly. To operate a fire extinguisher, the NFPA suggests remembering the word PASS.

Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
Aim low. Point the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire.
Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with them before a fire breaks out. Encourage your family members and co-workers to do the same. Remember, extinguishers do have their limitations! It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your home or facility.

SAFETY FIRST - Before the Feast
Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your happy holiday could quickly become hazardous in a blink of an eye. According to the NFPA, cooking is the main cause of home fires and injuries, with the Thanksgiving holiday being the peak day for cooking related fire emergencies.

Review the following safety tips to help ensure you can enjoy a safe holiday.

Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food. If someone must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, they should turn off the stove.
Check food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while kitchen equipment is in use. Use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on.
Keep small children away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove and oven.
Keep anything flammable like potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels away from the stove, oven, or other appliances in the kitchen that generates heat.
Do not wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease build-up.
Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen year-round. Contact the local fire department for training on the proper use of fire extinguishers if you are unsure.
Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all kitchen appliances like stoves, ovens, and toasters are turned off.
Install a smoke alarm near the kitchen, on each level of the home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside of bedrooms. Use the test button to check it is working properly every month. Replace the batteries at least once a year.

SERVPRO of Franklin County wishes you a safe and happy Thanksgiving and holiday season.

Emergency Fire Damage Tips

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

These emergency tips will assist you in taking proper action until the professionals at SERVPRO of Franklin County arrive. Follow these DOs and DON’Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration.

DO:

Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into carpet and avoid tracking.
Keep your hands clean. Soot on your hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
If electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
Wipe soot from metal kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances.
If heat is off during winter months, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
Remove soot particles from plants with a damp cloth.
Change HVAC filter, but leave it 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.

DON’T:

Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your local SERVPRO franchise professional.
Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet, rugs, or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO franchise professional.
Don’t 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.
Don’t consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water. (They may be contaminated.)
Don’t 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.
Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

Smoke Alarms are: LIFE SAVERS

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). In homes, smoke alarms should be in every bedroom and on every level, including the basement. In office and commercial environments, check your state requirements or contact your local Fire Marshall to help ensure all codes are met.

Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years. Other alarms need batteries replaced every year and the unit replaced every ten years. If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately. Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm.

Almost half of fires where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries (NFPA). In larger commercial facilities, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits such as not needing to be tested as often and activating throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).

If you need help installing, testing, or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician, or the American Red Cross. Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills.

For more information on Emergency Preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County.

Does your home or business have smoke odor?

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

Professional smoke odor removal is important not only to eliminate unpleasant smells, but because lingering smoke can pose a health hazard.

Exposure to particles caused by fires can be harmful to one’s health and should be dealt with as soon as possible.

There are a few steps homeowners can take while waiting for professional help.
When it is safe to re-enter the house, circulate the air as much as possible. Open all windows and doors and use fans to ventilate the area.
Mop floors and make sure everything dries thoroughly to prevent mold growth.
Items made of brass and copper should be cleaned within 24 hours to prevent them from etching.
Vacuum carpets to remove dirt and dust particles that trap unwanted smells.

To completely rid the house, one smoke odor removal process that is utilized is called thermal fogging, which is a procedure used by professionals.

Thermal fog is a process in which a fluid is vaporized and then condenses when it meets a cooler atmosphere temperature. The particles that are created are extremely tiny and mimic particles created by fire, heat, and pressure. This technique is one treatment that is proven to eliminate odors.

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Franklin County is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors.

These odors can come from several sources both inside and outside a structure.
SERVPRO teaches IICRC technical classes in the proper removal of odors. Masking and other short cuts do not work when your odor problem is serious or persistent.

We have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor and determining the conditions in which it contacts any surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace.

The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call, and leave the restoration to us. 636-583-5200

What to Do After Fire Damage

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be severe, but restoration is possible. Call SERVPRO of Franklin County to schedule a free estimate if you have fire damage.

Safety is a primary concern when dealing with fire damage. Returning to normal may seem impossible, but thankfully it isn’t. After calling the fire department, home and business owners should be aware that the building may be dangerous. Entering the building should be avoided since the environment could be toxic. No one should enter the house or office until the emergency responders approve that it is safe. Roofs and floors could be unsafe and could possibly cave in without notice. Smoke, soot and water are problems that need to be dealt with as soon as possible.

Home and business owners should take the following steps following a fire:

Contact local disaster relief. In some cases, relatives will open their home for their families or friends in an emergency. If that is not an option, local services can help families find shelter, food and medication
Contact the insurance company. The insurance company can help home and business owners understand what they must do in order to file a claim and receive compensation.
Utilities should not be turned on if the emergency responders have shut them off. They could be extremely hazardous and should only be used if a professional says it is safe.
Call the landlord or mortgage company and inform them about the situation
Call the police and inform them that the office or home will be vacant until the building is restored.
Receipts should be saved to provide information to the insurance company and to claim losses on income tax forms.

Fire damage can be severe, but restoration is possible. It is important to proceed with caution to prevent any further damage. With experienced restoration professionals and some time, a house or office can often be restored to its original condition.

SERVPRO of Franklin County has the specialized fire and water damage cleanup and restoration training and experience to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition. We also have specific training and equipment for odor removal and deep cleaning of upholstery and carpet.

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

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (636) 583-5200

Five stars ALL THE WAY!

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience fire or water damage in your home, give SERVPRO of Franklin County a call.

Gary and his wife arrived at their home in Union, MO. What they saw was a horrific disaster of what used to be their home. They saw water pouring out from the house and could see from outside that the interior had taken quite a lot of fire damage as well. When asked what it felt like to set eyes on that, Gary states, “Oh, I can’t explain. It’s still hard to wrap our heads around almost a year later.”

Gary explains that someone had set fire to the inside of his home. The fire damaged the full interior with fire and smoke damage, but also caused pipes to burst from the intense heat, which ruined any remaining materials. “The entire inside was destroyed. Everything was black from the fire and soot and there was water running out everywhere.”

That’s when they called the professionals to help. When asked how he and his wife came about to calling SERVPRO of Franklin County, Gary stated, “We had used SERVPRO multiple occasions for cleanings and we knew the name well. There was never a second thought on who to call.” His wife and he knew that their home was in good hands.

The SERVPRO crew began by completely gutting the interior of the home, as it was far too damaged. Gary says, “The crew took charge and the removal of smoke odor and materials was remarkable.” Once everything had been properly removed, SERVPRO began to rebuild and restore the home. Gary goes on to praise Dan, a SERVPRO carpenter who led the construction on this job, by saying, “Dan Barnes really knew what he was doing, and I was pleased with how meticulous he was with the details.”

When inquiring about their thoughts on the results of the restoration of his home Gary says, “SERVPRO made the whole transition from the disaster to a great, livable home so easy. We are very pleased with our home.”

We asked Gary if he would recommend SERVPRO of Franklin County to friends and family and he stated “Oh, absolutely! You recently helped my son with water damage in his house caused from a storm.” He even added, “We are very pleased! We give you all five stars ALL THE WAY!”

We are so thankful Gary and his wife chose SERVPRO to help them make it “Like it never even happened,” and that they’re loving their home!

Please give us a call if you experience a disaster in your home!

We are "Here to Help" 24/7: (636) 583-5200

Heating Your Home Safely

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

If you experience a fire due to heating equipment, know that SERVPRO of Franklin County is "Here to Help' restore your home 24/7.

Now that winter is here brining shorter days and lower temperatures, you will be using your heat sources more often. To keep our homes and workplaces cozy, many people use fireplaces, space heaters, and wood burning stoves.

Did you know, heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths? According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment fires cause an estimated $1 billion in direct property damage annually. Keep the following safety tips in mind to help reduce your risk of a heating-related fire.

Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or a portable space heater. Have a three foot “kid-free zone” around open fi res and space heaters.
Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
Test smoke alarms monthly.

If your property does suffer fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Franklin County. Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

We will help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Cooking Up a Safe Holiday Season

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin County responds quickly to your fire or water damage emergency.

SERVPRO of Franklin County - Fire Damage Restoration Specialist Offers Franklin County, MO Families Tips on Cooking Up a Safe Holiday Season

Startling statistics underscore the need for caution in the kitchen.

Union, MO (Grassroots Newswire) 11/06/2019 -- Holiday party planning begins now for many families, and Jerry Alvey of SERVPRO of Franklin County, MO offers some important reminders to Union, MO residents to help ensure this season glows with the warmth of good food and good friends, and not with the glare of a devastating home fire.

“The holiday season is a time when many families plan big and elaborate meals for large groups of people,” says Alvey. “But all that cooking creates an extraordinary risk of fire. For a safe and festive holiday season, it’s important to understand that risk and take steps to minimize it.”

Cooking Fire Safety NFPA research reveals that in 2016, on average, U.S. fire departments responded to a home fire every 90 seconds. Cooking fires were the leading cause of these home fires and related home fire injuries and the second leading cause of related home fire deaths. Unattended cooking was the leading contributing factor in these fires.¹

“Union, MO families should keep these statistics in mind as the holidays approach. According to the NFPA, Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by the day before Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and Christmas Eve²,” says Alvey. “Families should also be aware that frying poses the greatest risk of fire, in fact, the NFPA discourages the use of outdoor gas-fueled turkey fryers that immerse the turkey in hot oil^.3 This video graphically illustrates the danger these devices can pose.” https://youtu.be/j3rF8F0JQRQ.

Alvey offers these additional cooking safety tips from FEMA’s U.S. Fire Administration.⁴

Keep an eye on what you fry: If you see any smoke or the oil starts to boil, turn the burner off.
Stand by your pan: If you leave the kitchen, turn the burner off.
Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove so that no one can bump them or pull them over.
Wear short sleeves or pull sleeves up: 18 percent of cooking fire fatalities in 2016 were caused by ignited clothing.²
Keep a pot lid or cookie sheet nearby to cover a pan if it catches on fire.

“Taking common sense precautions like these and keeping kids and pets out of the kitchen during meal prep can help keep your holiday celebrations safe,” says Alvey. “The precautions you take could help prevent a devastating home fire, a tragic injury, or even the loss of life. While SERVPRO disaster response professionals are fire damage restoration specialists, they know how important it is to keep the focus on fire prevention, because for some types of loss, there is no remediation.”

SERVPRO is an industry leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services. For more fire prevention and fire safety tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit www.SERVPRO.com.

For more information on SERVPRO of Franklin County, please contact Jerry Alvey at 636-583-5200 or jerry@SERVPROoffranklincounty.com.

Citations

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/News-and-Research/Fire-statistics/Factsheets/FireLossFacts.pdf
https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/News-and-Research/Fire-statistics/Factsheets/CookingFactSheet.pdf
https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire/Cooking/Turkey-fryers
https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/cooking.html

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About SERVPRO® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Every Second Counts

10/4/2019 (Permalink)

A fire can happen at any time. Every second counts, so be READY and make a plan today.

Every second counts during a fire. Fire experts agree; people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late to get out.* In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared and have an escape plan in place.

A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows only 26 percent of families and businesses have developed and practiced a fire escape plan. Once a plan is developed, it is critical everyone in the home or office understands the plan.

The best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year. Increase your chance of surviving a fire by ensuring you have working smoke detectors in place, building an escape plan, and then practicing it.

The following are a few suggestions to help you develop an emergency escape plan.

Draw a map of each level of your home or business and show all the doors and windows. Find two ways to get out of each room.
Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily.
Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second and third floors. Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory. Store them near the window where they will be used.
Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they’ve escaped.
Make sure to mark the location of the meeting area on your escape plan. Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them.
Plan for everyone in your home or office, with special considerations for elderly or disabled individuals.
Practice your fire escape plan during the day and at nighttime.

*Tips and statistics provided by the American Red Cross

Keep Fall Fire Free

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Keep fall fire free with these safety tips from the NFPA.

The fall season brings cooler temperatures, beautiful colors, and an abundance of outdoor activities. Plan ahead this season to help ensure it is safe and fire-free.

Fall decorations, like dried flowers and cornstalks, are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters.
Keep emergency exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes.
Teach children to stay away from open flames. Be sure they know how to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire.
Remember safety first when choosing a Halloween costume. Consider avoiding billowing fabric. If you are making your costume, choose material that won’t easily ignite if it comes into contact with heat or a flame.
It is safest to use a flashlight or battery-operated candle in a jacko-lantern. Use extreme caution if using a real candle. Place lit pumpkins away from anything that can burn and out of the way of doorsteps, walkways, and yards.

Information provided by the National Fire Protection Association, nfpa.org. Visit their website for more information on being safe this season.

Smoke Odor? Call SERVPRO

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage and Smoke Odor Restoration