After a fire causes damage to your home, we understand that you want to restore everything from your home to your possessions to "normal" as soon as possible. Here are some active steps you can and can't take following a fire
DO make sure everyone in your family is safe, including all beloved pets.
DON'T enter the fire-damaged structure until the fire department deems it safe.
DO document the damage with pictures once you have permission to reenter the home.
DON'T turn on gas, water or electric utilities until a professional has deemed them safe.
DO call insurance and utility providers to inform them of the fire.
DON'T wash smoke-damaged clothing yourself. This can set the smoke odors or stains and ruin them. Smoke-damaged clothing should quickly be taken to the dry cleaner.
DO Call SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha: If you experience fire damage, call the cleaning and restoration pros at SERVPRO to restore your home to its normal as soon as possible.
After a fire causes damage to your home, we understand that you want to restore everything from your home to your possessions to "normal" as soon as possible. Here are some active steps you can and can't take following a fire
DO make sure everyone in your family is safe, including all beloved pets.
DON'T enter the fire-damaged structure until the fire department deems it safe.
DO document the damage with pictures once you have permission to reenter the home.
DON'T turn on gas, water or electric utilities until a professional has deemed them safe.
DO call insurance and utility providers to inform them of the fire.
DON'T wash smoke-damaged clothing yourself. This can set the smoke odors or stains and ruin them. Smoke-damaged clothing should quickly be taken to the dry cleaner.
DO Call SERVPRO: If you experience fire damage, call the cleaning and restoration pros at SERVPRO to restore your home to its normal as soon as possible.
Extension cords are one of the most commonly misused items in a home and at the office. To ensure safety use these following tips when using extension cords.
Determine the correct wattage required to power the device and be sure to select the correct size of the extension cord. If connecting two or more devices, add together the wattage rating for all devices to prevent overload.
Select the appropriate extension cord for using devices indoor or outdoor.
Do not use extension cords that are cut or damaged. Touching the exposed strand of wire can give someone electric shock or burn.
Be sure to unplug extension cords when finished using due to the cord will still conduct electricity until it is unplugged.
Running a cord under carpet or across a doorway is unsafe.
If you have any questions regarding fire damage please call SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County at (262) 542-0900.
A fire can be 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 of Southwest Waukesha County has 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.
Board-ups - In some cases firefighters may break windows and cut holes in the roof in order to vent the fire. It is extremely important to secure openings to your home or structure using sturdy, durable materials designed to protect it from both weather intrusion and intrusion by outsiders.
After a fire causes damage to your home, we understand that you want to restore everything from your home to your possessions to "normal" as soon as possible. Here are some active steps you can and can't take following a fire
DO make sure everyone in your family is safe, including all beloved pets.
DON'T enter the fire-damaged structure until the fire department deems it safe.
DO document the damage with pictures once you have permission to reenter the home.
DON'T turn on gas, water or electric utilities until a professional has deemed them safe.
DO call insurance and utility providers to inform them of the fire.
DON'T wash smoke-damaged clothing yourself. This can set the smoke odors or stains and ruin them. Smoke-damaged clothing should quickly be taken to the dry cleaner.
DO Call SERVPRO: If you experience fire damage, call the cleaning and restoration pros at SERVPRO to restore your home to its normal as soon as possible.
The first 48 hours after fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and belongings. SERVPRO Professionals are here to help prevent lasting problems with a timely response. Until help arrives, here are some ways to minimize damage caused by a fire.
Limit movement in the house to prevent soot particles from spreading and causing additional damage.
Lay down towels or linens over high traffic areas in your house.
Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and we carpet.
Do not wash walls or painted surfaces.
Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery.
Do not clean electrical equipment.
Do not send clothing to a drycleaners, improper cleaning may set smoke odor.
And remember, SERVPRO professionals are here to restore your property and possessions to their preloss condition.
SERVPRO professionals can help restore carpet damaged by fire and soot.
If your carpet has been soiled and damaged by soot in a fire, don't hesitate to give your local SERVPRO a call. SERVPRO professionals use state-of-the-art cleaning equipment to remove soiling and odors from fire and soot from deep within your carpet's pile and backing.
We offer many carpet care and cleaning options, from light Bonnet Cleaning, to deep restorative Hot Water Cleaning, to Deluxe Precondition and Rinse, but the most effective cleaning method for treating fire damaged carpet is Showcase Premier Cleaning. This cleaning method uses a two-step process - shampooing the carpet and then rinsing and extracting the carpet for deep cleaning - to thoroughly remove stains and odors the way other methods may not. It is the most thorough cleaning method and will restore your carpet to it's pre-damaged condition.
It is the holiday season. Some of us love to decorate our home or business with lights. Decorations can be like Clark Griswold or just a Christmas tree with lights. Understanding some essential safety tips can keep you and your family safe this holiday season.
Turn off the lights. If you’re leaving your home to run errands or even going to bed, it’s a good idea to turn off your lights. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 40% of Christmas tree fires are caused by the lights. It is a good idea to use timers, remotes, and smart outlets to make turning off your lights easier.
Buy the proper lights. Check if the lights can be used indoors, outdoors, or both. One important tip is never to use indoor lights outside. Winter weather can cause damage and lead to an increased risk of fire. If you have lights older than five years, it is a good idea to buy new lights.
Extension Cord. Like your lights, extension cords are rated for indoor or outdoor use. Indoor cords should never be used outside. Please be sure to secure cords by using staples to keep cords in place. Inside make sure to tape them down, so they are not a tripping hazard. Another essential tip is to watch your pet around cords. Make sure they are not chewing the electrical cords.
Don’t be like Clark Griswold. Too many strings plugged into one outlet could cause them to overheat. Using a power strip with a circuit breaker is a good idea. The power strip’s circuit breaker can detect heat and will shut down. Plugging outdoor lights into a GFCI outlet is essential. The outlet can detect wet conditions and shut off to prevent electrical shock. Keep your outdoor lights dry as well with a protective plastic cover. GFCI outlets are also found inside your home, usually in a kitchen, laundry room, and bathroom.
Take them down. Usually, in January, we experience a slight increase in the temperate. Use this to your advantage and take down your lights. Lights left up for a significant period can be damaged by inclement weather.
Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County – (262) 542-0900 Fire Damage Emergency Tips - What you can do until help arrives
Keeping Outdoor Pets and Your Home Safe This Winter
As winter approaches, temperatures are dropping rapidly! As we all know, humans aren’t the only ones who need warmth. As we head into the holiday season, many homeowners throughout the area may need to be sure that their outdoor fluffy pals can live comfortably. This can include the use of heat lamps or other heating sources. Our production crew worked on a home fire this past spring which was caused by a chicken coop heat lamp that shorted out and eventually burned up a portion of a home. SERVPRO was called and on site ready to help restore their home to a living condition. Here are some tips to remember to keep your home and your animals safe and warm this winter.
Ensure if extension cords are needed that any grounds are not disconnected, falling apart, or too old
Inspect all heating equipment for any frayed, kinked or worn out wires
If possible, make sure there is enough separation from the home to the heated area incase of a fire to avoid spreading of the fire to the home
If using a space heater or heat lamp, avoid placing dry wood, hay, straw, rope or any other flammable item directly in front of it. These heating machines must have at least 3 feet of space between it and anything that could potentially spark a fire
Do not leave the heated area without supervision for extended periods of time
Maintain and monitor your heated area to avoid any potential fire hazards as listed above
Contact SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County for all your fire and smoke damage clean up needs. 262-542-0900 or 920-674-3002.
Follow Fire Safety Tips To Prevent This Type of Damage
Every October the National Fire Protection Association recognizes the second week of the month as Fire Prevention Week. The goal of this week is to raise awareness for fire safety and educate families.
This is the perfect time to talk with your family about your fire escape plan. These escape plans should include how to get out of each room in the house and a meeting location in a safe area for the entire family, this should be at least 75 feet from the building. This plan should be practiced regularly, during both the day and at night with everyone in your household, including children and people with disabilities.
This is also a great time to also test your smoke alarms and ensure they are less than 10 years old.
Along with checking your smoke alarms, you should also check your fire extinguisher. These fire extinguishers should have an ABC rating, as this type can be used to put out most fires. It is also important to note that these types of extinguishers do have a lifespan and should be replaced every 6 years.
Hopefully, you take time this coming week to think about how you can improve your fire safety. Remember, every second counts in the event of a fire, so you and your family must always be prepared.
If you have fire damage, call the certified fire and smoke restoration technicians at SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County at 262-542-0900.
The best way to handle a fire is to prevent it. By knowing the risks of common fire hazards, you can more effectively prevent fires. These are the top 5 most common causes of fires:
1. Cooking
2. Heating Appliances
3. Electrical
4. Smoking
5. Candles
Each of these hazards can be minimized by using care when handling flammable materials, reading instructions on appliances, and remembering to put out candles, matches and cigarettes.
A little care and caution can go a long way in preventing fires.
Frayed wires such as this one can cause electrical fires which are responsible for nearly 25% of all house fires.
October is fire prevention month. Here are 7 tips to ensure that you and your family are prepared in the case of a fire:
Install and maintain smoke detectors- Smoke detectors can alert you to a fire even if you are sleeping or in another room of the house. Installing smoke detectors on each level of your house and checking them monthly is a great step to ensure that your family is alerted immediately if there is a fire.
Keep fire extinguishers on hand- having fire extinguishers at the ready and familiarizing family members with how to use them can prevent a small fire from turning into a huge problem.
Have a fire escape plan- Meet with your family members or roommates and decide what to do if a fire were to occur. Locate all exits and be prepared by keeping fire ladders on upper floors in case exits are obstructed.
Use caution when cooking- Don’t leave cooking food unattended. Check that stovetops, burners and oven are turned off when you are done cooking.
Lighters are tools not toys- Keep lighters, matches, and other potential fire hazards away from children. Watch children around open flames such as candles and stovetop burners.
Open flames aren’t the only fire hazards- Almost a quarter of house fires are electrical. If an electrical appliance sparks, smokes or has an unusual smell it could indicate an issue that could easily become a fire hazard. In this situation, unplug the appliance and get it fixed before using again and proactively prevent fires by replacing frayed electrical cords.
Remember: stop, drop, and roll- In the case of a fire if your clothes catch fire stop where you are, drop to the ground, cover your face and roll to smother the flames.
Remember, in the case of a fire, the best thing to do is be prepared. By practicing good fire prevention habits you can minimize the risk of fires and be ready in if one were to occur. In the case of a past fire, call SERVPRO for your fire clean up and restoration needs.
Many of the people working at SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County and SERVPRO Jefferson County/Oconomowoc enjoy riding ATV's and UTV's on our free time. What a great way to enjoy the outdoors of Wisconsin and spending quality time with family and friends.
The following is an article about protecting ourselves and the environment while riding ATV's and UTV's during a drought.
Riding during drought season. What to know.
Recent drought conditions across the country require us to sharpen our focus on challenges for off-roaders.
To protect yourself, the environment, and the trails we all share, we've gathered some important information we should all keep in mind as we seek out summer's great adventure. KEEP THE FUEL CANS AT HOME AND PLAN YOUR FUEL STOPS
For your safety and the safety of the environment, do not carry reserves that could combust. This applies every time you ride throughout the year. Failure to follow this instruction could lead to serious injuries.
PARK IT IN RED FLAG CONDITIONSA red flag warning means conditions are ripe for a wildfire, so consider taking a break from riding until the risk has passed. Be sure to check conditions and flag warnings in your area by visiting your state's natural resources department or weather.gov
RIDE WITH A FIRE EXTINGUISHER
Be prepared for the unexpected by keeping safety close at hand, even after the dry season by carrying a fire extinguisher in your vehicle. Use a fire extinguisher holder, mounted directly inside your cab frame to keep a fire extinguisher within reach.
KEEP IT CLEANMinimize fire risk by removing all grass, weeds and brush that may have collected on or around the exhaust system. Be sure to wait until the exhaust system cools down before removing brush to prevent burns and always keep family and friends away from the hot metal.
OUTDOOR TEMPERATURE
As a final reminder, when it's hot out, it’s best to ride early in the morning or late at night to avoid the worst of the conditions and always bring along extra water to stay hydrated. If you’d like more off-road safety tips, follow the link below.
Ground Fireworks Typically Considered Legal in Wisconsin
Every year in the United States there are about 19,000 fires that are related to fireworks. Please plan accordingly and follow these safety tips to keep your property and your loved ones safe this upcoming Independence Day. Most important, ALWAYS follow local law in regards to what fireworks are legal in your area
Never allow young children to handle fireworks
Older children should use them only under close adult supervision
Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol
Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear
Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands
Never light them indoors
Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material
Never point or throw fireworks at another person
Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting
Never ignite devices in a container
Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding
Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire
Never use illegal fireworks
Verify that conditions in the environment are appropriate for fireworks use. Do not use during a drought.
In the event that your property should experience fire damage, please call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County to assess the damage and help you get back to celebrating safely. 262-542-0900.
Over 90% of the state is experiencing abnormally dry conditions.
After our abnormally snowy winter Wisconsin is currently experiencing a drought after a very dry March. According to WISN Channel 12 we saw over 10.1" more snow than normal from December to February; however, we have seen -1.43" less precipitation than normal in the month of March. This lack of precipitation in the month of March has left the state as a whole abnormally dry. According to Drought.gov 90% of Wisconsin is currently experiencing abnormally dry conditions. These conditions can lead to an increased chance of fires as well as a burn ban in areas experiencing extreme dryness. We recommend all remain cautious and while working with fires.
If you or anyone you know have been affected by a fire call SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County at (262) 542-0900
The American Burn Association Provides Help and Prevention Tips
The first full week in February is recognized as Burn Awareness Week. This is an opportunity for organizations to mobilize burn, fire and life safety educators to unite in sharing a common burn awareness and prevention message in our communities.
Learn more about Burn Awareness Week by clicking on the following link provided by the American Burn Association.
By visiting this website you can learn more about the following:
Opportunities for burn care organizations, burn survivor support groups, public safety, and injury prevention professionals to increase awareness among the general population of the frequency and causes of burn injury in America
Advances in and sources of burn care available today. You can also learn about ways to prevent contact burns with safety fact sheets.
SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County is here to help. We recognize that when fires occur and people get hurt, resources are needed to heal both the physical and the mental wounds.
If you had a residential or commercial fire and help is needed to clean up the mess, please call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County at 262-542-0900 and speak with a trained fire, smoke restoration technician. We can and will help.
This damaged Wisconsin home was the result of a faulty electrical wire connected to the wood deck. Notice the extent of the fire damage; the vinyl siding has melted away and soot and charring are present on the wood framing. Even though the wiring was outside, it still can cause damage to the home and lead to an interior fire. The technicians at SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County used a very powerful air compressor and sodium bicarbonate to remove the black charring.
This method of media blasting also helps in deodorization after the fire. This process helped save thousands of dollars in repair on this claim because the materials were able to be salvaged. SERVPRO has used this method on numerous fire jobs throughout the country so our expertise is helpful in restoring property.
For all your fire and smoke related issues, call on SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County to help make it "Like it never even happened." Call us at 262-542-0900.
Safely Hung Plywood to Protects Contents and Structure From Outdoor Elements
A recent fire in the City of Waukesha, WI started when a tenant in an apartment building was smoking on his wood balcony. The fire completely burned the exterior door and sections of the interior wall in the bedroom. In order for the flames to be put out, the fire firefighters had to quickly tear down the door frame and header and remove sections of drywall to access the insulation.
By the time the fire was out, the inside of this room was completely exposes to the outdoor elements. An emergency board-up was needed in order to prevent moisture from outside (rain/snow) and animals from entering the building. The property owner called on SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County to assist her. The after photo shows the same door way with a sheet of playwood safely hung in place to help protect the building. This is an important service to provide when your personal belongings are at risk.
For all your emergency board-up needs and fire mitgation cleanup services, call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County and talk with professionals who have many years of experience dealing with fire and smoke damage. 262-542-0900
Ceiling Tiles Affected From Neighboring Business Fire
A local business that had a fire caused significant smoke damage to a neighboring business, the local United States Post Office. The roof-top furnace was on at the time of the fire and sucked in large amounts of smoke and fumes, leaving the post office dirty and smelly. This before photo shows the ceiling register and the black soot surrounding it.
SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County was called in to clean up the mess. This job required technicians to clean and deodorize the structure and contents. Imagine cleaning every individual P.O. Box and each individual mail slot? Significant time and labor was needed to accomplish this task. The postal carriers were very happy with our services and impressed with how quickly the job was completed. SERVPRO also provided ductwork/HVAC cleaning and deodorization to eliminate that smoke odor.
For all your fire and smoke damage mitigation needs, call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County at 262-542-0900. We will make it "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO of S.W. Waukesha County sees lots of fire and water damaged properties. Don't hesitate to call!
SERVPRO of S.W. Waukesha County sees a lot of water damage and a lot of fire damage. Sometimes these two go hand in hand. The fire department using water to put out a house fire, or a sprinkler system being triggered by a fire. Obviously, the fire department shows up and uses firetrucks/fire hydrants for water. So, how do sprinkler systems work?
Most sprinkler heads feature a glass bulb filled with a glycerin-based liquid. This liquid expands when it meets air heated to between 135 and 165 degrees. When the liquid expands, it shatters its glass confines, and the sprinkler head activates.
Each sprinkler head is attached to a pipe that connects to a reliable water source outside the building. When heat activates a sprinkler head, a valve opens, allowing pressurized water from the pipe system to flow out and trigger the rest of the sprinkler heard on the building.
Call SERVPRO of S.W. Waukesha County with any fire, water, mold, or cleaning needs! 262-542-0900
During the holidays, many people try to fit as many lights and other electrical devices to accommodate holiday lighting, decorations and cooking appliances, unknowingly increasing the potential for electrical fires and outages, says Joel Worthington, president of Mr. Electric, a Neighborly company which is one of the nation’s leading residential and commercial electrical service providers. Since 25 percent of Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems, always follow this checklist.
Inspect lights first. Before plugging in a strand of lights, examine the cord for damage. Throw away any frayed, kinked or worn light strands.
Turn off all lights and decorations before leaving the house or going to bed. To avoid braving the cold every night, install a timer to automatically turn on the lights at dusk and turn them back off at dawn (or earlier if you prefer).
Keep your tree hydrated. Just two or three days without water could be enough to dry out a Christmas tree, so water it every day. Once a tree is dry, it can catch fire easily so it should be discarded.
Candles may provide a festive ambiance and delightful fragrance, as well as providing a count down to Christmas with your Advent wreaths, but they’re also responsible for starting two out of every five home decoration structure fires each year. This is especially true during the holidays when the top three days for home candle fires are Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Christmas Eve.
Get flame without the fire. Consider replacing traditional candles with flameless, battery-operated types, but don't forget to turn them off when leaving the house as LED lights do get hot.
Don't leave the room. Never leave a candle burning unattended and, if you're going to be stepping away from the candle for several minutes, it's safer to blow it out rather than risk a potential hazard.
Use caution when decorating with candles. Always use a sturdy candle holder to keep it from tipping over or touching flammable surfaces. When decorating, keep candles at least 12 inches away from all flammable items.
According to a 2016 report from the National Fire Protection Association, a leading factor contributing to home heating fires was the failure to clean chimneys. Since this chore involves more than sweeping soot, it’s best to hire a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep, says Ashley Eldridge, education director for Chimney Safety Institute of America.
Fireplaces and chimneys should be inspected by a professional chimney sweep every year — and again halfway through the season for new wood-burning installations, such as fireplaces or wood-burning stoves.
Take great care as well with your decorations around the fireplace. Make sure that all decorations are clear of the fireplace in order to avoid your stockings or Christmas wreaths catching fire.
Finally, clear out the debris and ash from your fire pit to ensure for a safe and controlled fire.
SERVPRO wants everyone to have a happy holiday season no matter how you celebrate!
During this holiday season, SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County wants all families in all communities to stay safe. This blog will give tips on staying safe while using a menorah for your celebrations. If your family celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, or anything in-between SERVPRO cares about your family and safety. Please keep the following tips in mind while you celebrate!
No matter how beautiful your child’s or grandchild’s “arts and crafts” menorah may be, please do not use it. These menorahs are not suitable for lighting and may burn down when used.
Never leave a lit menorah unattended.
The menorah should be made of non-flammable material only.
Never place the menorah near or under flammable material such as papers, curtains or books.
Do not walk around while holding a lit candle.
Put out candles before you leave a room and before you go to bed
Keep matches and lighters away from children - out of reach.
Supervise any child that lights a menorah. Place their menorah close to the child so they don't have to reach over another menorah.
SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County wants you to be as safe as possible, but in the event of a fire give us a call at (262) 542-0900.
Best wishes this holiday season from the team here at SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County
Preventing a Fire During The Cold Wisconsin Winters
SERVPRO was called out to this fire caused by a space heater. As the temperature drops, make sure to follow all instructions on space heaters.
House fires are extremely dangerous and can cause expensive damages. The following are fire prevention tips.
Install and regularly test and maintain smoke alarms. Monthly tests should be performed and replace the smoke detector every 10 years.
Clean the dryer. Dryer lint is the perfect combustible material when combined with the heat from the dryer. The lint tray should be cleared after each load to avoid a build-up of lint.
Watch open flames. Candles, cooking, and fireplaces are just some of the reasons most people are exposed to open flames. Never leave them unattended.
Maintain wiring. Household wires and cables can become a fire hazard if they are used when frayed or otherwise compromised. Check them often and replace once they become worn.
Store household chemical in proper locations. Keep these products protected from sunlight or heat to avoid combustion.
Make sure to follow instructions on space heaters closely. Failing to follow proper care and operation instructions on space heaters can create very large scale fires.
Get in touch with SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County with any questions, or in the unfortunate circumstance of a fire. 262-452-0900
SERVPRO wants to help keep you and your family safe this holiday season. Follow these turkey tips for a safe Thanksgiving.
The Holiday Season, in particular turkey frying season, is a time to think about fire safety. SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County wants to remind everyone on the dangers of frying a turkey. Deep frying a turkey is very delicious, but it can be very dangerous for many reasons, including the high risk of fire. The oil used to fry the turkey is highly flammable and can lead to large fires, even with small amounts of oil. There is also a risk of tipping the fryer over, possibly causing fires and injuries.
Please follow proper safety procedures if you are planning on frying a turkey this Thanksgiving.
TURKEY FRYING SAFETY TIPS
Do not fry your turkey in an enclosed area.
Keep a fire extinguisher near the fryer. Be sure it is an all-purpose extinguisher that can handle fires from the heat source and from the grease.
Never leave the fryer unattended.
Don’t let children or pets near the fryer, even after you are done cooking as the oil could still be hot hours later.
Use proper safety equipment when frying, like potholders/oven mitts, wear long sleeves, and safety goggles to protect yourself from oil splatter.
If a fire does start, call 911 right away.
For all your fire damage questions call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County. 262-542-0900
Have you ever tried fixing your own electronics and appliances and ended up with extra parts? In the beginning of my career, I probably broke more electronic equipment than I ever repaired, but over the years I developed the skills needed to properly disassemble electronics and appliances as well as restore them to preloss condition. Also, along the way I learned a thing or two about the hidden hazards of fire soot.
According to the insurance industry, about one in 325 insured homes has a property damage claim related to fire and lightning, and on average, Americans own approximately 25 electronic products per home. Although most of the time electronics can be restored by a professional after a fire and returned to the home afterwards, there are a lot of hidden hazards of smoke and soot damage that are commonly misunderstood and pose certain health risks when not handled properly.
A typical structure (residential home or business) contains various materials such as plastics, elastomers, foams, polymers, adhesives, fabrics, wood products and asbestos containing materials. The incomplete combustion of these materials as a result of fire can produce an array of toxic organic compounds such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), semi-volatile organic compounds (SOVCs), and polycyclic aromatic compounds (PAHs).
Exposure to these compounds during a fire may exhibit both acute and chronic toxicity. Some of the other chemicals and gases found in smoke are carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, water vapor, hydrogen cyanide, carbon particles, aldehydes, nitrogen oxide, benzene, toluene, styrene, metals, and dioxins. The size, quantity, character, and type of particles, gases, and chemicals in smoke varies depending on what is burning and whether it was complete or incomplete combustion.
When different types of items burn, various types of soot residue and smoke are produced including wet smoke, dry smoke, plastic or rubber smoke, protein smoke, furnace soot, and candle smoke. When restoring or cleaning electronics, it is important to be able to recognize the difference in various types of soot and smoke as they pose different risks and implications.
Wet smoke is thick, smeary, sticky, has a pungent odor, and is prone to discoloration. It is very difficult to clean and requires specialized products and techniques. Wet smoke must be addressed quickly.
Dry smoke typically involves smaller, non-smeary particles, and is usually a result of hot, fast burning fires. The odor is usually not as strong as wet smoke.
Burning Plastic, foam, rubber, and polymers produce plastic or rubber smoke and burn with high energy at low temperatures. The particles produced have a high degree of ionization, therefore are attracted to other materials and form smoke webs. The smoke produced can potentially be acidic, if it is not addressed soon enough or treated properly with specialized products, bare metal surfaces can corrode and pit.
Protein smoke residue is a result of slow burning food such as meat and poultry. The particles are usually invisible and have a particularly strong pungent odor. A slow burn allows the protein to disperse and attach to everything, tends to stain painted and varnished surfaces, and is typically very difficult to clean.
Furnace soot or puff-backs result from the misfiring in a furnace or when an older furnace is replaced with a newer, high efficiency furnace. The ventilation system will aid in the distribution of the soot and can send it throughout the entire home, covering drapes, bedding, furniture, cabinets, walls, and everything in between. It is possible that before the malfunction occurred, the furnace may have been emitting small quantities of soot over an extended length of time. When this occurs, the soot bonds to the surfaces making it more difficult to clean.
Candle soot residue, AKA “dirty house syndrome” is visible residue without a recognizable fire source. Studies show that it is very possible to be a result of burning cheap scented decorative candles. Candle soot production normally begins when the particulate matter produced reaches .06 to 0.1 microns in size. Because the particles are so fine, they lodge in irregular surfaces and are held by electrostatic bonds requiring complete disassembly of the item.
Smoke aids in the distribution of soot and travels to cooler areas and continues until the fire is extinguished, thereby causing soot to be distributed everywhere in its path.
When it comes to restoration, electronics are very sensitive and when compromised by smoke and soot, become a safety hazard. Damage from smoke and soot primarily stems from increased resistance in circuits and connections by corrosive metal loss, short circuiting caused by current leakage, and overheating. Cleaning smoke and soot damage on electronics and appliances requires learned skill sets, professional cleaning products, and techniques. It is important to take the complexity of effective electronics restoration into consideration before letting just anyone disassemble a computer or flat screen TV and hope for the best.
If you ever experience a fire or soot/smoke damage, be sure to call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County at 262-542-0900.
Source
Copeland, James. “Recognizing Hidden Hazards of Fire Soot on Electronics.” Restoration Remediation Magazine RSS, Restoration & Remediation Magazine, 24 Oct. 2019, www.randrmagonline.com/articles/88660-recognizing-hidden-hazards-of-fire-soot-on-electronics?oly_enc_id=5235J0800912E7Y.
Danger Still Exists Even After The Fire Is Extinguished
After a structure fire, restoration contractors are often on scene within hours to perform emergency services. This usually begins with boarding up windows and doors and covering holes in the roof cut by the fire department. This is intended to protect properties from further damage as well as prevent unauthorized entry, theft, or spoiling of evidence. However, what many people may not realize is that boarding-up a fire damaged structure can create an extremely hazardous environment.
Although the flames have been extinguished, the smoke has cleared, and the fire department removed the yellow tape, the fire scene isn’t as safe as one might think. Toxic volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) created by the vast array of materials and products that, after being burned, are now in a state of off-gassing, saturating the indoor air with poisonous gases and particulates. The combination of the lack of ventilation after a board-up and the toxicity of the combustion byproducts created classifies this environment as immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH). The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) states that a respiratory hazard exists when a toxic contaminant is present in the air at a sufficient concentration to cause harm when inhaled. The damage may occur immediately, or it may take days, weeks, months, or years for effects to surface.
The types and quantities of materials and products that combust, their chemical reactions, heat, time, and other factors, make each post-fire environment unique. The vast array of toxic chemicals, VOC’s, and particulates are limitless and exposure to them can have immediate and/or long-term health effects. Fire investigators know all too well the dangers of post-fire environments and many are sickened.
One example of this occurred when a fire chief in California walked through a residential fire to assess the damage. A short time later, as he was returning to the fire station, he became ill and his aide transported him to a local hospital. The hazardous material response team was called to the scene and located several glass containers of a substance later identified as liquid sodium cyanide. The chief was subsequently transported to a medical facility equipped with a hyperbaric chamber for treatment and fully recovered. Physicians and investigators eventually determined that he had inhaled near-lethal doses of sodium cyanide from a jewelry refinishing business that was operated from the home. (1)
Restoration contractors face similar dangers in structure fire settings, where they may spend days performing emergency services, mucking out debris, estimating, and inventorying personal property.
Smoke, Toxic Gasses, & Chemicals
Considering that cigarette smoke alone contains over 7,000 chemicals, with 70 identified as cancer-causing, the products and materials that burn in a structure fire produce innumerable toxins. These products may include plastics, fiberglass, fabrics, fire retardants, electronics, pesticides, cleaning solutions, automotive fluids, solvents, chemicals used to manufacture illicit drugs and a host of others.
Currently, the EPA has over 85,000 chemicals registered in its inventory of substances that fall under the Toxic Substances Control Act and approximately 2,000 new chemicals are introduced each year.(2) The Chemical Abstracts Service is the world’s authority on chemical information and it has over 100 million registered chemical substances in its registry.(3) These chemicals are combined in more than 7 million mixtures formulations that are found in homes and buildings across the U.S.(4) The majority of the chemicals currently in commercial use haven’t been evaluated.(5)
Some of the most toxic chemicals and gases found in smoke include: hydrogen cyanide, phosgene, dioxins, furans, sulfur dioxide, PCB’s, hydrochloric and sulfuric acid, and arsenic. Other toxins may include benzene, lead, chromium, and other metals, toluene, acrolein, mercury, formaldehyde, phenol, styrene, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
To give you an idea of how toxic some of these chemicals are, phosgene and hydrogen cyanide were used in World War I as chemical warfare agents, resulting in thousands of casualties. Both hydrogen cyanide and phosgene are commonly found in structure fire smoke.
Dioxins – The Worst of the Worst
Restorers are well aware of hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead, and mold, but few realize how toxic smoke particulates and soot can be. The dioxin named 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) has been called the most toxic man-made compound on Earth.(6) Scientists say it is exceeded in toxicity only by radioactive waste.(7) Dioxins are formed when products containing carbon and chlorine are burned, such as plastics containing PVC. (11)
Particulate Exposure
Particle exposure leads to around 20,000 premature deaths in America each year. Inhaled particles that are less than 5 microns travel to the lower lung where the gas exchange occurs in the alveoli. The particle size of soot is approximately 2.5 microns or less and to offer some perspective on the size of these particles, a red blood cell is approximately 7 microns in size.
The smallest ultrafine particles are so minute they behave like gases, passing through the lungs and directly into the bloodstream. Ultrafine particles also travel up through the nose and, rather than passing down into the lungs, they are delivered directly into the brain and central nervous system via the olfactory nerve, bypassing the body’s protective blood/brain barrier.
Safety Considerations
The importance of wearing proper protective equipment when working in or around fire debris or a fire damaged structure cannot be understated. Restorers should consider the following safety tips:
Establish a safety and site assessment protocol to determine what type of PPE should be worn. The highest level of respiratory protection should be considered.
Have all workers fit tested to ensure their respirators function properly.
Ventilate enclosed areas unless doing so will expose others to health hazards.
If workers experience any adverse health symptoms from exposure to smoke odors or soot, seek medical attention immediately.
IF you experience a fire, let the certified and trained professionals handle the cleanup and deodorization. Please feel free to call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County with any fire or water needs. 262-542-0900.
References
FIRE SCENE INVESTIGATION: A “CAUSE” FOR CONCERN? http://www.fireengineering.com/articles/print/volume-157/issue-6/features/fire-scene-investigation-a-cause-for-concern.html
It could take centuries for EPA to test all the unregulated chemicals under a new landmark bill By Mark Scialla: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/science/it-could-take-centuries-for-epa-to-test-all-the-unregulated-chemicals-under-a-new-landmark-bill
Characterization of fire Investigators Exposure During Fire Scene Examination By: Dennis L. Rogers – DuPage County Arson Task Force (page 19)
July 4th Celebration Leads To Small Fire In Dumpster
A hot fireworks shell from a Waukesha, WI July 4th Celebration, that the homeowner thought was cooled off, was placed into a plastic dumpster inside the garage. Unknowing to the home owner, the shell was still hot enough and ignited rags and debris inside the plastic dumpster. This photo shows the remaining portion of the dumpster and the melting that occurred during the fire.
SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County was called by the home owner to help them clean up the mess this small fire caused in their garage. The owner was happy that we could get the mess cleaned up quickly since she was having a party the following weekend. This was to celebrate their brand new home, which they just moved into the previous month.
For all your emergency fire and smoke damage, call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County. 262-542-0900
SERVPRO Uses Ozone To Deodorize After Cigarette Odor
Ozone is one of the most effective ways at neutralizing smoke odor. When we are asked to clean and deodorize after cigarette/cigar odor, or after a fire, we we will use an ozone generator.
Ozone is a colorless gas with a pungent odor and powerful oxidizing properties, formed from oxygen by electrical discharges or ultraviolet light. It differs from normal oxygen (O2) in having three atoms in its molecule (O3).
Ozone has existed on Earth for as long as oxygen has been here- about 500 million years. It has existed in our universe for billions of years. Wherever oxygen comes into contact with an electric arc, such as lightning and/or a particular wavelength of ultraviolet rays, like those from the sun around which the planet orbits, ozone will be created.
How is ozone generated?
During an electrical storm, bolts of lightning in the atmosphere rip oxygen molecules apart, leaving single oxygen atoms in their wake. These single atoms quickly bond with surrounding O2 molecules, creating O3, or ozone.
This is why the air smells so fresh right after a lightning storm. Lightning is nature’s air purifier.
The ozone layer in the lower stratosphere is also generated by molecular fission and fusion, but by the sun’s short wave ultraviolet rays rather than by electricity. Coincidentally, it’s this ozone layer- created by short UV waves, that protects life on our planet from the longer UV waves within the spectrum.
Ozone generators manufacture ozone by applying either of these same two principles:
1. Corona Discharge
Ozone generators that utilize the electric arc method of generating ozone are referred to as corona discharge ozone generators. High voltage (2,000 volts and up) is passed through a dielectric material (material that transmits electrical force without conduction), while being fed and cooled by ambient air supplied by a fan located at the rear of the unit.
This sustained electric arc is what severs the O2 molecules, resulting in the manufacture of ozone.
2. Ultraviolet Light
Waves of ultraviolet (UV) light are what ‘slice’ O2 molecules in half in UV ozone generators. UV bulbs are mounted inside the generator which emit certain wavelengths of ultraviolet light which, in turn, separate the atoms of passing O2 molecules. This is how our sun creates and maintains the protective ozone layer between the troposphere and stratosphere.
UV is much less effective at generating ozone than corona discharge. Generators of this type typically have a much lower ozone output as a result.
How does ozone destroy odors?
Ozone reacts with odor molecules by transferring the “extra” oxygen atom of the ozone molecule to the odor molecule, changing its composition so it no longer has the same chemical makeup. This chemical reaction is called oxidation.
In a nutshell, through the oxidation process, what was formerly an odor-causing molecule is now an entirely different compound, and therefore does not possess the odor of its preceding form. A simple example of this molecular restructuring is the addition of an oxygen atom to a molecule of H2O to form H2O2 (which is the conversion of water to hydrogen peroxide).
Is Ozone Dangerous?
The most important thing to remember when generating ozone in a space is to evacuate the premises during the treatment. This includes the removal of humans, pets, fish (as there is oxygen in the water) and in the case of high levels generated over a period of several hours, removal of houseplants is suggested. It’s a good idea to post “Do Not Enter- Ozone Area” (or similar message) signs on all entrances of a space as well.
After the treatment time is complete, either enough time should pass for the ozone to revert to oxygen (O2), or the space should be circulated/vented with fresh air before people and animals are reintroduced.
And here’s one of the most beautiful things about using ozone in the restoration industry - the only residue resulting from the generation of ozone is oxygen (O2). When used properly and a few simple rules are followed, ozone can be a safe and effective tool.
In this photo, you will see an ozone generator on top of the ladder. We purposely put the generator up high because ozone is heavier than oxygen and it falls to the ground. Also, you will see 3 fans pushing air/ozone back up toward the ceiling. Because ozone is heavier than oxygen, the fans are used to re-circulate the ozone to make the deodorization process more efficient.
For all your nicotine odor and other deodorization needs, call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County. 262-542-0900
Spider Webs or Cob Webs or Soot Tags: What is the Difference?
As fire restoration specialists, we have seen a lot of fire damaged homes and businesses over the years in various parts of Wisconsin. Sometimes the extent of the damage is very obvious especially when the damage is on the walls and ceilings of homes and personal contents. Other times the most damage is in the attics, or trapped between walls where it is unseen until we dig in with our inspection.
One of the most common visible forms of fire damage are the black "spider webs" that seem to spring out of nowhere after a fire. These spider webs are actually called “Soot Tags” and actually don’t have anything to do with spider webs. Many times are customers are embarrassed because they feel these soot tags makes it look like spider webs and they feel like they did not keep their home clean. So don't you worry because your house cleaning skills were not the cause.
Soot Tags form in areas of low circulation when petroleum/synthetic based sources burn. In a fire, the heat of the fire moves into colder areas since the air seeks to create equilibrium. Since that soot is riding the air with that heat, soot particles follow the air into those colder areas with low circulation and are able to concentrate in certain areas. Since that soot is a product of combustion, the particles themselves are charged which makes it quite easy for them to create long chains of soot or soot tags. So while it looks like a lot of soot got stuck on pre-existing spider webs, it is actually a whole new structure. Spiders did not leave them.
Cob webs and spider webs are defined the same: Noun. a web spun by a spider to entrap its prey. A single thread spun by a spider. Something resembling a cobweb; anything finespun, flimsy, or insubstantial.
Spider webs are called cobwebs because the old English word for spider was coppe. ... Spider webs do not all look the same, there are orb, sheet, tangle, funnel, lace, radial and purse.
If your home of business in Wisconsin is affected by smoke or fire damage give us a call so we can start making it “Like it never even happened.” Our certified fire & smoke restoration technicians are here to help. 262-542-0900.
Commercial Fire Leads to Multi Million Dollars of Damage
SERVPRO Is Here To Help With The Smallest of Fires Or Large Fires Like This One
A hot glue gun at the end of the shift sparked a flame in this local commercial building. The heat was so intense that it actually bent some of the I-beams used to support the roof. In this photo that was taken two days after the fire, you can see how the ceiling insulation is damaged and many sections where the roof had caved in.
SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County was called by the building owner and was onsite while the fire department was still present. SERVPRO was not there to get in the way, but rather to answer questions that the owner had about what to do with filing an insurance claim and what to expect.
SERVPRO was there for the clean-up and deodorization needs. But we can also be there as a consultant to help guide you when you are so overwhelmed that you just don't know where to begin.
The fire & smoke restoration technicians are certified and experienced to help in situations like these. Call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County with your emergency fire damage needs. 262-542-0900
Commercial Fire In Jefferson County Causes Over Million Dollar Damage
Jefferson County Commercial Building Owner Calls In SERVPRO of Jefferson County/Oconomowoc For Help
A hot glue gun at the end of the shift sparked a flame in this Jefferson County commercial building. The heat was so intense that it actually bent some of the I-beams used to support the roof. In this photo, that was taken two days after the fire, you can see how the ceiling insulation is damaged and all the sections where the roof had caved in and exposed the electrical wiring.
SERVPRO of Jefferson County/Oconomowoc was called by the building owner and was onsite while the fire department was still present. SERVPRO was not there to get in the way, but rather to answer questions that the owner had about what to do with filing an insurance claim and what to expect.
SERVPRO was there for the clean-up and deodorization needs. But we can also be there as a consultant to help guide you when you are so overwhelmed that you just don't know where to begin.
The fire & smoke restoration technicians are certified and experienced to help in situations like these. Call SERVPRO of Jefferson County/Oconomowoc with your emergency fire damage needs. 920-674-3002
Most Electronics Can be Salvaged After Fire & Smoke Damage Occurs
There’s nothing like outdoor grilling. It’s one of the most popular ways to cook food. But, a grill placed too close to anything that can burn is a fire hazard. They can be very hot, causing burn injuries. Follow these simple tips and you will be on the way to safe grilling.
Safety Tips:
Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
Keep children and pets 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.
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 of in a metal container.
Propane Grills:
Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department. If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.
Facts:
In 2004–2008 fire departments responded to an average of 7,700 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbecues, including 4,500 outside fires and 3,200 structure fires.
July was the peak month for grill fires in 2004–2008.
More than half of home grill structure fires begin on either a courtyard terrace or patio, or an exterior balcony or open porch.
For all your fire damage and clean-up needs, call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County and speak with a certified fire and smoke restoration technician. 262-542-0900
A fire can wreak havoc on practically any building—including your workplace. And because fires can develop at such a rapid pace, failure to follow effective prevention and response techniques can further exacerbate the spread of the flames, resulting in employee injuries and—in some instances—death.
That’s why it’s vital for workers like you to play your part in promoting proper fire safety measures on the job. Be sure to utilize these tips to help prevent workplace fires and mitigate the damages in the event that one does occur:
· Stay informed—Make sure you pay attention during any workplace fire safety training. This might include fire drills, instructions on when to pull the fire alarm or best practices for using a fire extinguisher. In addition, regularly review any written resources, such as the building’s emergency evacuation plan or the company smoking policy.
· Keep it clean—Cluttered work areas create fire hazards for multiple reasons. First, workplace clutter (e.g., extra papers, empty containers or overflowing garbage cans) can easily add extra fuel to an existing fire. Second, excess clutter can restrict or block emergency exits, making it difficult for employees like you to escape in the event of a fire. With this in mind, try to keep your work area as clean and organized as possible. Encourage your co-workers to do the same.
· Reduce electrical risks—Electrical issues are another common fire hazard, especially in workplaces that rely heavily on various forms of technology (e.g., computers, printers and copy machines). As such, make sure you avoid overloading electrical outlets in the workplace and report any damaged wiring or technology malfunction issues immediately. Doing so will allow electrical hazards to be fixed before they become severe.
· Beware of equipment hazards—Equipment breakdown incidents are also key workplace fire hazards. To reduce the risk of equipment-related fires, follow inspection and maintenance requirements for all equipment, and inform your supervisor if you notice any concerns. Never use damaged equipment.
· Know how to respond—In the event that a fire does occur in the workplace, be sure to follow the building’s emergency evacuation plan. Stay calm and listen to your supervisor for further instructions.
For more workplace fire safety guidance, talk to your supervisor.
For all your workplace (or residential) fire damage clean-up needs, call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County. Then you will speak with a trained and certified fire & smoke restoration technician who has the appropriate experience cleaning and deodorizing after a fire, plus experience dealing with your insurance company.
SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County at 262-542-0900. "Like it never even happened."
Burning Candles Can Cause Damage: How to Prevent and Cleanup After
Soot From Burning Candles Can Cause Damage, But Is Preventable
So, you’ve got some candle soot on your walls? The good news is that it's probably manageable. Any kind of candle can leave soot on a wall if it's too close, left burning for too long or in the direct line of a draft. The scented candles are the real culprits because the oil used to scent them can create an oilier soot, which can be a little more difficult to remove. In any case the following bulleted lists should help you remove, or get started on removing, candle soot.
Things to keep in mind about burning candles:
If there is soot viable on surfaces, there’s probably soot in the duct work. Keep a high-quality filter in your HVAC system to minimize the amount of soot, among other things, getting into your ducts. You may consider getting your air ducts professionally cleaned and duct cleaning is a service that SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County offers.
Some people have sensitivities to candle scents so be careful when burning scented candles with guests over.
Heat from candles can peel paint under the right circumstances. Make sure you’re keeping any flames far enough away from painted surfaces to avoid that.
Avoiding candle soot on walls:
Don’t place candles too close to walls.
Trim the wicks of candles before burning them. The wick should be about ¼ inch long. This is a good habit to be in anyway because candles with wicks that are too long are fire hazards.
Don’t place candles near a draft.
Try placing the candles in a fireplace if you have one.
Removing candle soot from walls
Vacuum off the wall before applying anything to the area. Try vacuuming with an upholstery attachment to avoid causing further damage to the wall.
Before you wet the paint, which can cause more damage, try using a dry sponge to remove as much of the soot as possible. Soot can be oily, which is another reason getting the area wet should be a last resort. Whenever applying anything wet to a wall you should be prepared for further damage to occur, in which case the wall will need to be repainted.
If the dry sponge doesn’t work, you can try the following method:
Dish soap and warm water can be used with a rag. Remember that getting certain paints wet can cause damage, so be careful using this method. Place many drops of dish soap in a quart of water. Don’t dip the dirty rag back into the clean water to clean it off, instead rinse it under a faucet. This helps keep the water clean and avoids spreading the mess further and should be done any time you’re using a bucket and rag to clean. Work in small areas to avoid spreading the soot further and rinse the rag often.
Hopefully you have a better idea of how to take care of soot on walls. It's not a perfect process and can cause further damage even if done properly. It's always recommended that soot be cleaned from a wall before it is repainted because the smell can seep through new paint. So, the damage you could potentially cause is more than likely worth it in the long run.
Contact SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County for all your cleaning and duct cleaning needs. 262-542-0900.
Soot From Neighbor's Fire Settles On Piano Down The Block
Many times people think of a fire as only affecting the building owner or the tenants or people living or working in that structure. People do not realize that fires can cause smoke damage to neighboring structures.
A recent commercial fire caused smoke damage to the neighboring house. This damage was created by the wind. During the actual fire, the winds were quite significant and caused the smoke to flow directly at the neighbors house. The soot then settled on all the horizontal surfaces within the structure. This photo shows how the soot settled on their piano and by using a white paper towel, one can see the layer of soot that was left behind.
SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County was called to clean and disinfect the entire structure. We are the professionals who specialize in fire and smoke damage cleanup and restoration. The damage caused by the neighbor's fire meant that all countertops, tables, chairs, desks, toilets, etc., had to be cleaned. SERVPRO even cleaned all carpet and other flooring surfaces.
If your neighbor experiences a structure fire, please keep an eye on your property because you may be directly impacted by the damage.
For all your emergency fire damage cleaning and deodorization needs, please call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County at 262-542-0900.
This fire was started by hot fireworks being put into a plastic garbage container. The garbage container was then put into a garage.
With summer events and fireworks being canceled more people will be putting on their own display. In this blog there are tips to remember before you light that fuse.
According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), fireworks big and small, pose risks. A report shows children under fifteen years old make up approximately 40 percent of estimated injuries. Please keep your family safe and don't assume child friendly fireworks should be in their hands.
CPSC gives these tips to those who decide to purchase legal fireworks:
Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don't realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals.
Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha has cleaned up after a fire loss due to fireworks. People will put hot fireworks into a plastic garbage container that sits next to their home or garage. Overnight a fire can occur because the fireworks were still hot and will melt plastic. Please remember to put used fireworks into water before putting them into the garbage. Also think about using a metal garbage can to put the fireworks in.
This microwave had a fire and had caused soot damage to an entire home.
SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha was called in to cleanup after a microwave above a stove had caught fire. In this scenario, there was heavy damage to the cabinetry and structure closest to the source. After the fire is inspected and cleared, SERVPRO was able to get started with the cleanup.
Fires can cause damage to an entire home even if it doesn't look like it. From the fire extinguishers or water used to put out the flames to the soot that was created during the loss, it all needs to be cleaned properly in order to ensure the structure and contents are safe and odor free. In some cases the material can be wiped down, but most of the time removing the affected material or content is the safest and most effective way to cleanup after a fire.
Call us at 262-542-0900 with any questions or concerns regarding fire damage cleanup today!
A stove fire caused this damage to cabinets, walls, and contents in the nearby cabinets.
SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha was called out to cleanup after a stove fire that affected the lower level and required the surrounding rooms and content to be cleaned. This photo shows the cabinets and walls above the stove and how they were affected. The cause of loss, the stove, was removed and will be replaced. Walls and cabinets were cleaned, patched up, and repainted. When assessing a fire loss, the soot not only needs to be cleaned up were it's visible, but the all the surrounding content and adjacent rooms need to be checked as well. Soot can travel throughout a home and can be hard to see.
Call SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha for any questions about fire damage, cleanup, or assistance today! (262)542-0900.
Heat damage to dryer outlet was identified as a potential fire hazard.
The certified professionals at SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha take pride in their ability to help our customers with any issues that may come up during our time at the job site.
One example is shown here when an electric dryer plug was removed, a safety hazard was identified. Our SERVPRO crew chief had asked the homeowner if they had an available electric dryer or stove outlet in which to use to gain more power to run our drying equipment. This question was asked in order to provide power for a larger than average amount of drying equipment needed for this particular loss. After the homeowner unplugged the dryer, this heat damage was visible. This plug and wall outlet damage was a severe fire hazard that our crew chief recommended calling a licensed electrician to inspect both the outlet and the plug as soon as possible to prevent any electrical issues in the future.
SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha often finds issues that wouldn't normally be discovered. However, due to the nature of our business, we are trained to look for certain hazards. A thorough walk through can make all the difference. In this case, it just might have prevented a fire.
For all your water and fire damage questions, concerns or needs, call SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha at (262)542-0900. At SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha, our customers' safety is the TOP priority.
Life isn't always easy, but we are always here to help. #SERVPROsouthwestwaukeshacounty
Despite their size, any fire can affect your life and derail your sense of normalcy. You may even end up settling on choices that affect your well-being and your finances. It is difficult to know whether you are settling on the correct decision. Stress, fear, anxiety, and depression may even set in. One of the first things you will need to do is call your insurance agent and discuss the situation. They are the only person that can translate your policy and aid you in understanding how to get back on track.
Once it is determined that help is needed, an essential step is picking between complete replacement of your belongings or hiring a professional restoration company. In theory, an expert restoration group will demonstrate to be more cost effective than replacing all your furniture, cabinets, flooring, etc. as well as your personal belongings. Insurance carriers will usually recommend restoration over replacement.
If this cautionary tale applies to your Waukesha County home, you are not the only one. SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha is your local, family owned resource to work delicately in between you and your insurance company to aid in making a proactive decision. The goal being to restore and reestablish your livelihood, and to get things back to normal as quickly as possible.
Our goal, like yours, is to restore as much as possible before suggesting that you replace an item. This approach helps you save time and money in the aftermath of a fire.
At the point when you enroll the services of an expert group like SERVPRO Southwest Waukesha, you can believe that we apply all of our years of experience and care in restoring your property.
Remember, when firefighters extinguish the last flame, take a deep breath, and consider your next step carefully. Call SERVPRO Southwest Waukesha (262)542-0900, we will make sure you are taken care of.
In the event that you experience fire, smoke or soot damage, call the certified fire restoration technicians at SERVPRO Southwest Waukesha County!
If you are like us, you live in Wisconsin. Which tend to be cold, snowy and icy. Electric space heaters are generally more expensive to operate than combustion space heaters, but they are the only unvented space heaters that are safe to operate inside your home. Although electric space heaters avoid indoor air quality concerns, they still pose burn and fire hazards and should be used with caution. These wonderful devices that we love so much, actually cause thousands of fires per year totaling millions of dollars worth of damage.
Always Inspect your heater for cracked, broken, or loose plug connections before each use. If frayed, worn or damaged, do not use the heater. If you have pets and children at home, make sure to keep your heater in a safe space away from them.
Truly, these machines are only meant to provide supplemental heat and should never be used to warm bedding, cook food, dry clothing or thaw pipes. It may sound crazy, but yes, these are the types of actions that lead to fires.. and people do them all the time.
Keep in mind the placement of space heater. Heaters must be kept at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including papers, clothing and rugs. Always plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. Do not use an extension cord or power strip, which could overheat and result in a fire.
Please don’t ever place heaters on cabinets, tables, furniture, or carpet, which can overheat and start a fire. And most importantly, when winter is over and you are getting ready to store away all of your things, allow proper cool time for your heater before putting it away.
In the event that you experience fire, smoke or soot damage, call the certified fire and smoke restoration technicians at SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County (262) 542 -0900.
If you decide that you need help with the fire damage clean-up, call SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha at (262)-542-0900 as we are here to help
Christmas trees are so beautiful and can bring families together this time of year. We all have our own unique way of decorating, and no two are alike. Its one peiece of the puzzle, the Holidays just cannot be without. However, we want you to celebrate and enjoy your Christmas tree safely.
Luckily, Christmas tree fires are not that common. As you can imagine, they usually cause serious and costly damage. Between 20014 and 2018, about 230 home fires per year were responded to by U.S. fire departments, killing an average of four people each year and injuring many more. Eighteen percent of these fires were caused by a heat source too close to the tree.
As a preveyor of safety precations we recommend to always Choose a fresh tree over cheaper and drier trees. The fresher the tree, the less likely it will pose a fire hazard. Look for flexible needles that don't break, and a trunk with sap. Over watering is the perfect recipie, so Keep the water coming. The tree stand should contain a continuous source of water and be sturdy enough to resist toppling from children running around or crazy cats climbing on them. Don't choke the cord, and make sure to attach only three maximum strings of lights to any one extension cord, then place cords along walls to prevent a tripping hazard. Trees don't need warmth. Keep the tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces, candles and even a TV. Not any lights will do. Use low energy, safe lighting that's been certified by a safety testing lab. Don't use damaged or frayed cords. Replace bulbs as nessisary. Shut off the lights. Never leave the lights on overnight. Same goes for any appliances not in use when you are home or away.
In the event of a fire, CALL 9-1-1.
If you decide that you need help with the fire damage clean-up, call SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha at (262)-542-0900 as we are here to help. Call and speak with a certified Fire and Soot Restoration Technician.
Call SERVPRO Southwest Waukesha for all of your Fire Restoration needs! A local family owned business you can trust! (262)-542-0900
During the Holiday Season, candles are so festive, smell wonderful and will enhance the décor of your Holiday event. However, you must be very careful when using candles. As you can imagine, December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. On average, 11% of home candle fires begin with, yep you guessed it, holiday decorations.
From 2012-2016, U.S. fire departments responded to around 9,100 house fires started by candles alone. These fires caused an annual rate of 80 deaths, 770 injuries and $264 million in direct property damage.
Candle Fires Statistics: 2012-2016
· Candles caused 3% of reported home fires, 3% of home fire deaths, 7% of home fire injuries, and 5% of the direct property damage in home fires.
· Roughly one-third of these fires started in bedrooms.
· Falling asleep was a factor in 11% percent of the home candle fires and 30% of the associated deaths.
· More than half of home candle fires occurred when some form of combustible material was left or came too close to the candle.
Candle Safety Tips
· Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
· Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface.
· Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage.
· Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn.
· Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame.
AND.. most importantly......
· Keep out of reach of any small children.
SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha would like to give our warm Holiday Greetings to all and wish everyone a safe and merry season!
If you find yourself in a fire situation first call 911, and when you are ready call SERVPRO Southwest Waukesha (262) 542-0900 to handle the rest!
The Holiday Season, in partiular turkey frying season, is a time to think about fire safety. SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County wants to remind everyone on the dangers of frying a turkey. Deep frying a turkey is very delicious, but it can be very dangerous for many reasons, including the high risk of fire. The oil used to fry the turkey is highly flammable and can lead to large fires, even with small amounts of oil. There is also a risk of tipping the fryer over, possibly causing fires and injuries.
Please follow proper safety procedures if you are planning on frying a turkey this Thanksgiving.
TURKEY FRYING SAFETY TIPS
Do not fry your turkey in an enclosed area.
Keep a fire extinguisher near the fryer. Be sure it is an all-purpose extinguisher that can handle fires from the heat source and from the grease.
Never leave the fryer unattended.
Don’t let children or pets near the fryer, even after you are done cooking as the oil could still be hot hours later.
Use proper safety equipment when frying, like potholders/oven mitts, wear long sleeves, and safety goggles to protect yourself from oil splatter.
If a fire does start, call 911 right away.
For all your fire damage questions call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County. (262) 542-0900
Tips On Fire Prevention from SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County
Residential Sprinklers Will Help Prevent or Minimize Fire Damage
LIFE SAFETY INFORMATION
There can be no doubt, “Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Save Lives”.
Smoke and CO alarms in working order and placed properly give precious time to escape the structure.
NEVER, return into the structure during a fire!
The smoke in dwelling fires is deadly and highly toxic.
The worst gas created—HCN (hydrogen cyanide)! It interferes with the normal use of oxygen by nearly every organ of the human body. Exposure to HCN can be rapidly fatal.
That would be because of a lot of the plastics, carpet, glues, resins, on and on, that are now used in every modern residential dwelling.
Additional Life Saver, “Fire Sprinkler System”.
In-Home or residential dwelling fire sprinklers can usually extinguish a fire with the activation of a single sprinkler head! One sprinkler head! The future residential dwellings will have fire sprinklers.
Call 262-542-0900 for all your home and business fire damage questions and needs. We will send certified fire and smoke restoration technicians who are trained to handle your fire damage.
Fire Prevention Tips From SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County
House fires are extremely dangerous and can cause expensive damages. The following are fire prevention tips.
1. Install and regularly test and maintain smoke alarms. Monthly tests should be performed and replace the smoke detector every 10 years.
2. Clean the dryer. Dryer lint is the perfect combustible material when combined with the heat from the dryer. The lint tray should be cleared after each load to avoid a build-up of lint.
3. Watch open flames. Candles, cooking and fireplaces are just some of the reasons most people are exposed to open flames. Never leave them unattended.
4. Maintain wiring. Household wires and cables can become a fire hazard if they are used when frayed or otherwise compromised. Check them often and replace once they become worn.
5. Store household chemical in proper locations. Keep these products protected from sunlight or heat to avoid combustion.
Contact SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County if your home or business has suffered fire damage. We have certified fire and smoke restoration technicians on staff to help. Call us at 262-542-0900
There are over 2,000 different types of Beanie Babies in the world today.
We were called out to an apartment complex that had a fire. The fire originated in one unit but then spread to common areas. During the initial walk through, one of the condo owners asked us to check out her unit as well. She did have minor soot damage but the majority of the problem was the strong smoke odor.
Upon walking into this unit, I instantly knew that this was going to be a job that required an insurance adjuster. This was a hoarder situation, but luckily for us, this person was actually a very clean and organized hoarder.
This person collected Beanie Babies. There were Beanie Babies from wall to wall. They were in bags on the stairs, in kitchen cabinets, in drawers, on the couch, anywhere you can envision, they were there.
I called the adjuster out to make sure that this type of cleaning was truly was covered. Once I described the situation, the adjuster agreed to come out personally to view the damage. Within the next day or two, we met onsite. When he walked in and saw the hoard of contents, he was shocked. But, to our delightful surprise; because the tenant had the proper insurance, she was fully covered. So we got to work.
SERVPRO was tasked with doing a full pack-out. In addition to the pack-out, we also had to clean and deodorize each Beanie Baby that was in that unit. As these Beanie Babies are considered “collectors items,” they all had that heart-shaped tag still attached to them. Because of that cardboard tag being attached, we were unable to clean them with water and detergent. As a result, we had to hand-clean each individual piece…..approximately 75,000 Beanie Babies.
This is not an exaggeration.
If, on average, each stuffed animal was $6 to purchase, the value of her total collection was around $450,000. That is almost one-half of a million dollars.
This was probably one of the most time consuming and detailed jobs that we have ever experienced, as it took us over a month to complete. Though the satisfaction of a job well done, will always be incomparable.
SERVPRO is pleased to announce our partnership with HomesighT home inspection services.
We prefer using HomesighT because just like us, they have got you covered! From partial inspections, to specialty inspections and everything in between. ALSO, included with every Inspection they give mold protection, sewer line protection, warranties and more. We believe our clients will benefit from this partnership as our conjoined models align beautifully. With a focus on providing home owners with the right people and tools, they guarantee “Quality coverage and a Piece of Mind everyone deserves.”
Hillcrest Apartments Lightning Fire September 2019
Firefighters believe lightning sparked a fire at the Hillcrest Apartments on East Main Street at Shepherd Court in Waukesha, WI a few weeks ago. This is one of the largest fires our city as seen this year. This tragic event, happened so quickly, without a moment to prepare.
It wasn't shortly after, that we received a call about the disaster. This building was severely damaged on the 3rd floor and it caused over 300 residents to be displaced from their homes.
Less than 20% of the tenants had renters insurance.
Renter’s insurance is very inexpensive and worth every penny. You may trust yourself not to cause an accident. You may be one of the most careful tenants out there. But it is the unknown or the neighbors that can cause these types of issues right when you are least expecting it. You will be the one forced to deal with the aftermath, so why not retrieve coverage before its too late.
If a disaster occurs and you do not have renter’s insurance, it will be your financial responsibility to box and move everything out, clean and deodorize the items, pay for temporary storage, and then move your items back in. The stress alone can be daunting.
The Red Cross has opened a shelter at Elmbrook Church for these displaced residents, and Goodwill is also assisting.
Our hearts pour out to these families, as we keep them in our prayers and we ask you to do the same.
Fire Damage Can be Extensive But We’re Here to Help!
Smoke and Soot Damaged bathroom
#SERVPROsouthwestwaukeshacounty
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our 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 Southwest Waukesha County 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. We 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 Us Today – (262) 542-0900
Recent fire damage where a water heater overheated and caused a fire.
SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County has seen some fire damage this past month, so we thought it would be beneficial to share facts about smoke and soot.
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our 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 Southwest Waukesha 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. We 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 Us Today – 262-542-0900
Photo of a house burning; it was a 90% loss due to a gaming device being plugged into an extension cord.
Extension cords are one of the most commonly misused items in a home and at the office. To ensure safety use these following tips when using extension cords.
Determine the correct wattage required to power the device and be sure to select the correct size of the extension cord. If connecting two or more devices, add together the wattage rating for all devices to prevent overload.
Select the appropriate extension cord for using devices indoor or outdoor.
Do not use extension cords that are cut or damaged. Touching the exposed strand of wire can give someone electric shock or burn.
Be sure to unplug extension cords when finished using due to the cord will still conduct electricity until it is unplugged.
Running a cord under carpet or across a doorway is unsafe.
If you have any questions regarding fire damage please call SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County at (262) 542-0900.
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