Recent Fire Damage Posts
The Do's And Don'ts of Fire Damage Restoration | SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley
9/26/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley is your trusted choice for fire damage restoration in Overland and Cool Valley, Missouri
Fire damage in your home or business is a devastating event that leaves behind not only physical destruction but also emotional turmoil.
When the flames are extinguished, and the smoke clears, the path to recovery begins with fire damage restoration. In this extensive guide, we will delve into the do's and don'ts of fire damage repair and restoration. Whether you're dealing with fire damage, smoke damage, soot cleanup, or smoke odor removal, this comprehensive resource will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and protect your Overland, Missouri and Cool Valley, Missouri property.
The Do's of Fire Damage Restoration
1. Do Contact Professionals Immediately: As soon as the fire is extinguished and authorities declare it safe to enter the premises, reach out to a reputable fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley. Swift action can mitigate further damage and reduce restoration costs.
2. Do Prioritize Safety: Safety should always be your top concern. Do not enter the fire-damaged property until authorities confirm it's safe. Once inside, exercise caution due to potential structural instability, electrical hazards, and toxic soot and smoke residue.
3. Do Document the Damage: Take photographs and videos of the fire damage for insurance purposes. Visual evidence is invaluable and can expedite the claims process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
4. Do Secure the Property: If authorities allow you to enter, secure the property to prevent unauthorized access, potential theft, or vandalism.
5. Do Notify Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company promptly to initiate the claims process. SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley can collaborate directly with your insurance provider to streamline the restoration process.
6. Do Address Water Damage: Firefighting efforts often lead to water damage. It's crucial to address this issue promptly to prevent mold growth and further structural damage.
7. Do Allow Professionals to Assess Smoke Damage: Smoke and soot can cause extensive damage beyond what's visible. Allow professionals like SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley to assess the full extent of the smoke damage and develop a comprehensive restoration plan.
8. Do Secure Temporary Shelter: If your home is uninhabitable, secure temporary shelter for yourself and your family. Your safety and well-being should remain a top priority throughout the restoration process.
The Don'ts of Fire Damage Restoration
1. Don't Attempt DIY Cleanup: Fire damage restoration is a complex process requiring specialized knowledge and equipment. Attempting do it yourself cleanup can exacerbate the damage and pose safety risks.
2. Don't Discard Valuables Prematurely: Avoid disposing of damaged items without consulting professionals. SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley's fire damage restoration services emphasize content cleaning and restoration, potentially salvaging items you thought were lost.
3. Don't Overlook Smoke Odor: Smoke odor can persist long after the fire is extinguished. Neglecting smoke odor removal can compromise indoor air quality and your comfort in the restored space.
4. Don't Delay Restoration: Time is of the essence in fire damage restoration. Delaying the process can lead to further damage, increased restoration costs, and potential health hazards due to mold and soot exposure.
5. Don't Skip Professional Assessment: Even if visible damage appears minimal, do not skip a professional assessment. Smoke and soot can infiltrate hidden spaces, jeopardizing the structural integrity of your property.
6. Don't Assume Items Are Unsalvageable: Fire-damaged belongings may appear beyond repair, but professional restoration experts have the knowledge and techniques to salvage many items, including sentimental possessions.
Why Choose SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley for Fire Damage Restoration
SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley is the undisputed choice for fire damage restoration for a multitude of reasons, including:
Experience and Expertise: With years of experience, SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley's technicians are highly trained in fire damage restoration, smoke odor removal, soot cleanup, and more.
Advanced Equipment: SERVPRO employs state-of-the-art equipment and techniques for a thorough and efficient restoration process.
Comprehensive Services: From water damage mitigation to content cleaning and restoration, SERVPRO offers a complete range of fire damage restoration services.
24/7 Emergency Response: Fires can occur at any time. SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley provides round-the-clock emergency response to address your immediate needs.
Insurance Collaboration: SERVPRO works closely with insurance companies to expedite claims processing, easing the burden on you during this challenging time.
Community Commitment: SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley is not just a restoration company; it is a part of the Overland and Cool Valley, Missouri community. They understand the unique needs of local residents and businesses.
Reputation for Excellence: SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley has built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional service and results. Their commitment to customer satisfaction sets them apart.
The Road to Recovery
While fire damage can be emotionally and physically devastating, it's essential to remember that recovery is possible. With the right professionals by your side, your property can be restored to its pre-fire condition, and your life can regain a sense of normalcy.
Assessment and Planning: The fire damage restoration process typically begins with a comprehensive assessment of the damage and the development of a restoration plan. SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley's experts will work closely with you to ensure your needs are met.
Content Cleaning and Restoration: Professional restoration companies like SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley have advanced techniques for cleaning and restoring your belongings. Many items you thought were lost can be salvaged.
Structural Repairs: Extensive structural damage may require repairs and reconstruction. Experienced restoration teams can handle everything from minor repairs to major renovations.
Smoke Odor Removal: Smoke odor can linger long after the fire is extinguished. SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley employs specialized techniques and equipment to eliminate smoke odors, ensuring your space is comfortable and odor-free.
Thorough Cleaning: Every surface affected by fire and smoke damage will be meticulously cleaned to remove soot and residues. This includes walls, ceilings, floors, and personal belongings.
Restoring Indoor Air Quality: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration systems and air scrubbers may be used to improve indoor air quality, removing particles and odors caused by the fire.
Rebuilding and Reconstruction: Once the restoration is complete, SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley can handle any necessary reconstruction to return your property to its pre-fire condition.
Preventing Future Fire Damage
After successfully restoring your property from fire damage, it's imperative to implement preventive measures to reduce the risk of future fires. Here are some strategies to maintain a fire-resistant environment:
Install Smoke Alarms: Ensure smoke alarms are installed on every level of your property and test them regularly.
Fire Extinguishers: Have fire extinguishers readily accessible in key areas, and educate occupants on their use.
Electrical Safety: Regularly inspect electrical systems for faults or signs of wear. Avoid overloading circuits and ensure safe usage of extension cords.
Kitchen Safety: Exercise caution when cooking, and never leave cooking unattended. Keep flammable items away from stovetops.
Proper Storage: Store flammable materials, chemicals, and fuels in safe, designated areas away from potential ignition sources.
Chimney and Fireplace Maintenance: If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, ensure they are properly maintained and cleaned regularly.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Once the fire damage restoration process is complete and your property is returned to its pre-fire condition, it's time to move forward with confidence. While the experience may have been harrowing, it can also serve as a catalyst for positive change. Here are some ways to embrace a brighter future:
Fire Safety Education: Use your experience as an opportunity to educate yourself and others about fire safety. Share your knowledge with friends, family, and neighbors to prevent future incidents.
Emergency Preparedness: Develop an emergency plan for your family or business, including evacuation routes, communication strategies, and emergency contacts.
Community Involvement: Consider becoming involved in community organizations or activities related to fire safety and recovery support. Your experience can be a valuable asset to others facing similar challenges.
Conclusion
While the aftermath of a fire can be emotionally and physically overwhelming, it's essential to remember that recovery is possible. The dos and don'ts of fire damage restoration provide a roadmap to navigate this challenging journey, and choosing the right professionals like SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley can make all the difference.
SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley not only possesses the experience, expertise, and state-of-the-art equipment needed for effective fire damage restoration but also understands the emotional toll such events can take on individuals and communities. Their commitment to customer satisfaction, collaboration with insurance companies, and dedication to community involvement make them the preferred choice for fire restoration services.
SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley is here to help with your fire damage restoration needs. We have 24/7 emergency services and are always available when you need us. Call us any time at (314) 279-5600.
We Are Ready if Fire Damage Strikes | SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley
5/25/2023 (Permalink)
Our team is ready to serve businesses and families in the Overland/Cool Valley area.
While cases where fire consumes an entire home in the Overland/Cool Valley area, there are many times in which the fire damage is minor. However, soot and smoke can damage the entire home, making even a small fire a disaster. You may feel hopeless and without options, but that’s not the case.
Involving a professional is the best way to reduce costs and prevent secondary damage. Depending on the type of fire, and the way it is fueled, may require different techniques. SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley is IICRC certified and has the experience to tackle difficult problems. The level and type of damage will likely require a unique response.
Minor damages typically involve mostly smoke residue damage. The deposits are light to moderate, and restoration mostly involves a deep cleaning of the affected surfaces and fabrics. There are different techniques that are technicians use to remove the smoke odor and residue from your home. In this type, almost all the cleaning would be done onsite.
In more moderate damage situations, there will be smoke and heat damage on different surfaces. Your cabinets, drywall, and contents may have heat damage. Odors will likely be stronger at this damage degree as well. Our technicians will use varying techniques to remove items that are heavily damaged and determine what can be cleaned or will need to be replaced.
In majorly fire damaged homes, there is more severe heat damage throughout the home. Usually this is close to where the fire started, but this can leave parts of the structures framing charred. This often involves making structural repairs and gutting the heavily damaged parts of the home. Smoke damage is often heavy throughout. This requires extensive cleanup and removal of debris from the structure. Content cleaning for majorly damaged homes will need to be completed offsite.
Each fire damage situation is unique, and the process may vary depending on our customers' needs. We will explain the restoration process that is unique to your home upon onsite inspection. We are happy to answer any questions and make the process as stress free as possible.
We also provide board up services to help protect your home from additional damage during extended repair.
As soon as the fire trucks leave, give SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley a call. We will arrive onsite and help determine what your next step will be to reduce damage and work with your insurance company.
Our team is trained to address small and large fire damage projects. Our team is ready to serve businesses and families in the community.
Make Sure Your Fall Is Fire-Safe | SERVPRO® of Overland/Cool Valley
11/15/2021 (Permalink)
Be mindful about the fall fire safety. Always remember that SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley is the trusted leader in the restoration industry.
Temperatures are finally dropping, local trees are showing off their array of colors and the Tigers are back on the field on Saturdays. That can only mean that fall is finally here.
The season beloved by so many as the perfect time for camping, hiking and of course the beginning of spooky season is full of fun—but remember as you camp, celebrate or decorate that fire safety should always play a part. Let’s review a few things you’ll want to note.
Campfire Safety
The cooler temperatures of autumn make camping ideal, but it’s vitally important that you know how to properly and safely build and extinguish any campfires you create. So before you break out the s’mores…
Start your fire safely away from any buildings or tents—at least 25 feet. Stick to the tried-and-true method of kindling and matches or a lighter; never use an accelerant like kerosene or lighter fluid because they can cause a fire to get out of hand quickly.
The tiniest ember can reignite or be blown away by a stiff breeze, creating the risk of wildfire with any unattended flame. Don’t walk away until your fire is safely doused with water, down to the very last ember. When the ash is cool to the touch, you’re cool to head out.
Leaf Burning
Burning of leaves in Overland is actually illegal, but certain unincorporated St. Louis County areas do allow open burning with proper permits and supervision.
Any leaf burning should be done at least 50 feet from the home, in an open area and in a burn barrel if one is available. Anything besides organic, non-processed material is prohibited—this includes building wood and household trash.
Halloween
Always be respectful of the potential fire danger from candles. Any decorations or flammable material should be kept three feet from a flame, and nothing should hang over a candle.
Consider electric tea lights for jack-o-lanterns as well. Hanging lights can also create a hazard, so use them sparingly, avoid using extension cords and unplug them anytime you’re not using them.
If a fire hazard should turn from potential to reality in your home, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry and contact SERVPRO to get your property fully restored right down to the smell of smoke.
What's Causing Home Fires?
11/12/2021 (Permalink)
Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley are here for you if your home is affected by fire.
Fires at home are still a problem, despite years, nay decades, of constant education, advances in technology and regular ad campaigns to try and help us put them to an end. You’d think with so much invested in our homes, and their centrality in our daily lives, we’d be doing more to protect them.
Yet somehow a quarter of all reported fires, and more than 75% of all civilian fire fatalities happen in the home.
How can it be that one out of every four fires starts at home? Let’s look at what’s causing these fires, and the specific things making them spark.
Cooking. This is by far the leading cause of home fires and injuries (but interestingly, not fatalities). Some 49% of all home fires start in the kitchen, and the No. 1 reason is unattended cooking. That’s right, the single best thing you can do to avoid a fire at home? Pay attention while you cook.
Heating equipment. Approximately 14% of all house fires in the U.S. begin with heaters. Portable space heaters lead the charge, aided by equipment malfunctions and fires that start because clothing or furniture are left too close to heating elements.
Electrical fires. Modern homes use a lot of electricity, and some older homes don’t have wiring systems equipped to handle it. This leads to short circuits and overloads. Other causes include excess use of extension cords, over-powering lighting elements, faulty wiring, loose outlets and more.
Intentional fires. It’s hard to imagine, but there are some 28,000 intentional home fires each year in the United States. These are fires that began with the intention of burning something, not simply fires set for some other reason that got out of hand.
Smoking materials. Anytime you’re dealing with hot ash or combustible materials indoors, you run the risk of fire. Cigarettes and smoking paraphernalia are often left burning as individuals fall asleep, leading to 5% of home fires, and sadly, almost a quarter of all civilian home fire casualties.
Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO is here for you if your home is affected by fire. Contact SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley - 314-279-5600 to see how we can help.
Smoke and Soot Damage
8/5/2020 (Permalink)
Fire Damage in St. Ann, MO
Smoke and soot from a fire is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home or business causing hidden damage and odor. SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley’s smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure
Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor
The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. The professionals at SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley – 314-279-5600
Fire Safety Education
5/28/2020 (Permalink)
You may know what to do during a fire, but do your children? SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley has faced countless losses in homes and businesses due to fire damage so we want families to be prepared. It is important to make sure your children are educated on fire safety. You never want to leave your children home alone without the proper fire safety education and since you can't predict a fire emergency, fire safety education is key. Here are some important items to remember:
Make sure that you educate your children on what a smoke alarm looks and sounds like. Make sure they can recognize when a fire alarm has gone off and what to do when an alarm has sound. Know two or more routes to exit your home during a fire as well as a meeting point away from the location a safe distance from the fire. The American Red Cross suggests "Practice your fire escape plan at least twice a year and at different times of the day. Practice waking up to smoke alarms, low crawling, and meeting outside." It is crucial your children also know how to dial 9-1-1.
When making sure your home is up to fire safety standards, make sure to have escape ladders on the upper levels so that you can escape from windows to safety. The American Red Cross also suggests "use quick-release devices on barred windows and doors. Security bars without release devices can trap you in a deadly fire. If you have security bars on your windows, be sure one window in each sleeping room has a release device." It is important to make your children aware of which windows have quick releases on them and how to use them properly. Also have fire extinguishers readily available, and up-to-date and, at minimum, in the kitchen, garage and on the upper levels.
It is never too soon to start teaching your children how to be prepared during an emergency, including fires, as they often occur in the home. SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley is open 24/7 in case a disaster strikes. We are dedicated to helping restore your residence to pre-disaster conditions, making it “Like it never even happened.” 314-279-5600
Smoke Alarms : Life Savers
5/5/2020 (Permalink)
We’ve all heard the low, quiet, annoying beeping sound from inside the house that feels like it never beeps when you are standing next to it. Yes, you know what we are talking about, the smoke alarm. Did you know that the beeping sound is a reminder to change the batteries and perform a quick service to ensure it is working properly? The question is, do you know how to service your smoke alarms? We found some tips from NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) about how to maintain your smoke alarms.
- Smoke alarms should be maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
- Make sure everyone in the home understands the sound of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond.
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning to keep smoke alarms working well. The instructions are included in the package or can be found on the internet.
- Smoke alarms with non-replaceable 10-year batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.
- Smoke alarms with any other type of battery need a new battery at least once a year. If that alarm chirps, warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away.
- When replacing a battery, follow the manufacturer’s list of batteries on the back of the alarm or manufacturer’s instructions. The manufacturer’s instructions are specific to the batteries (brand and model) that must be used. The smoke alarm may not work properly if a different kind of battery is used.
In the case of a fire emergency in your home or commercial business, SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley has the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home. Why should you trust us? Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property as an IICRC-Certified Firmed.
We are always here to help!! 314-279-5900
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