Helping to Keep Your Holiday Safe from Cooking Fires and Some Tips

11/20/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is "Here to Help" 24/7, 365.

The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and delicious feasts shared with loved ones. However, it's also a time when the risk of cooking fires can significantly increase due to the elaborate meals prepared during these festivities. To ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season, it's essential to be aware of potential fire hazards and take preventive measures. In this blog, we'll share some valuable tips for keeping your holiday celebrations safe and enjoyable.

1. Stay in the Kitchen:

One of the leading causes of cooking fires is leaving the kitchen unattended while preparing a meal. Whether you're roasting a turkey, frying latkes, or baking cookies, it's essential to stay in the kitchen at all times while cooking. Assign someone the role of "kitchen monitor" to keep an eye on what's on the stove or in the oven.

2. Keep Flammable Items Away:

Ensure that flammable items such as kitchen towels, oven mitts, and wooden utensils are kept away from the stovetop and other hot surfaces. It's easy for these items to catch fire if they accidentally come into contact with a burner.

3. Have a Fire Extinguisher Handy:

Make sure you have a fire extinguisher rated for kitchen fires within easy reach. Familiarize yourself with how to use it and be ready to act quickly if a fire does break out.

4. Test Smoke Alarms:

Before the holiday season kicks into high gear, test your home's smoke alarms to make sure they're functioning correctly. Replace batteries if needed and ensure they can provide early warning in case of a fire.

5. Don't Overcrowd the Oven:

While preparing large holiday meals, it can be tempting to maximize oven space. However, overcrowding the oven can lead to uneven cooking and potential fire hazards. Follow your recipe's guidelines for oven spacing and temperature.

6. Keep Kids and Pets Safe:

Ensure that children and pets are kept a safe distance from the cooking area. Hot pots and pans, sharp utensils, and open flames can pose dangers to curious youngsters and pets.

7. SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle Can Help:

In the unfortunate event of a cooking fire or any other fire-related incident during the holidays, you can count on the professional fire damage restoration services provided by SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle. Their experienced team is available 24/7 to help with fire damage cleanup and restoration, ensuring that your home is quickly and effectively restored to its pre-fire condition.

Remember, a little caution and preparedness can go a long way in preventing cooking fires and ensuring a safe, enjoyable holiday season. By following these tips, you can help keep your holiday celebrations filled with warmth and happiness, rather than the heat of a cooking fire.

Wishing you a safe and joyful holiday season from SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle!

Safe Grilling Tips for a Flavorful Labor Day Weekend – SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle

9/26/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle is "Here to Help" after your holiday barbecue if you need us.

Labor Day weekend is just around the corner, and for many of us, that means firing up the grill for a delicious outdoor feast. As you prepare to celebrate the end of summer with family and friends, it's essential to prioritize safety while enjoying your favorite grilled dishes. Here are some valuable tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable grilling experience this Labor Day weekend, brought to you by SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle:

Inspect Your Grill: Before you start grilling, take a moment to inspect your grill for any signs of wear and tear. Ensure that all the parts are in good condition, the gas lines are secure, and there are no leaks. A well-maintained grill is a safe grill.

Choose the Right Location: Set up your grill in a well-ventilated outdoor area, away from structures, overhanging branches, or anything flammable. Keep a safe distance from your home, garage, and other outdoor equipment.

Keep Children and Pets Away: Create a safe zone around the grill and make sure children and pets are aware of it. They should be kept at least three feet away to avoid accidents and burns.

Use Proper Grilling Tools: Invest in high-quality grilling utensils, including long-handled tongs and spatulas, to keep your hands safe from the heat. Avoid using makeshift tools that might not provide the necessary control.

Practice Food Safety: Always marinate and store meat in the refrigerator, not at room temperature. Ensure that meat is cooked to the recommended internal temperature to kill harmful bacteria. Use a food thermometer for accuracy.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy: It's better to be prepared for emergencies. Have a fire extinguisher nearby, and make sure you and your guests know how to use it.

Don't Leave the Grill Unattended: Stay by the grill while cooking, especially if you're grilling with an open flame. Fires can spread quickly, so it's crucial to be vigilant.

Clean Your Grill: After your Labor Day barbecue, take the time to clean your grill thoroughly. Grease buildup can lead to flare-ups and potential accidents.

Properly Store Propane Tanks: If you use a propane grill, store the tank in an upright position, and never store it indoors. Check for any leaks before use.

Enjoy Responsibly: Remember that alcohol and grilling can be a dangerous combination. If you're drinking, do so responsibly, and avoid becoming distracted from your grill duties.

Now that you're armed with these safety tips, you can focus on what really matters this Labor Day weekend—enjoying delicious grilled food and quality time with loved ones. If, despite your best efforts, you encounter any grilling mishaps or emergencies, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle for professional help. Your safety is our priority, and we're here to assist 24/7.

Here's to a safe, flavorful, and memorable Labor Day weekend!

Cleaning Your Grill: A Crucial Step in Preventing Fires – SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle

9/26/2023 (Permalink)

As grilling season comes to an end, SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle is "Here to Help" with any disaster that strikes.

Grilling season is in full swing, and there's nothing quite like the sizzle of burgers or the aroma of barbecue filling the air. But before you fire up that grill for your next cookout, let's talk about a critical aspect of grilling safety: grill maintenance and cleaning. Regularly cleaning your grill not only ensures better-tasting food but also plays a vital role in preventing dangerous fires. Here's why it's crucial and how to do it effectively, brought to you by SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle:

The Importance of Grill Cleaning:

Reducing Fire Risk: Over time, grease and food residue accumulate on the grates, burners, and inside the grill. This buildup becomes a significant fire hazard, as it can ignite during cooking and lead to uncontrolled flames.

Enhancing Food Quality: A dirty grill can impart unpleasant flavors to your food and hinder proper cooking. Cleaning the grill grates ensures that your dishes retain their delicious taste.

Extending Grill Life: Regular cleaning can prolong the life of your grill. Grease and residue can corrode the grill's components, leading to costly repairs or replacements.

Effective Grill Cleaning Steps

Safety First: Before you begin, make sure the grill is cool and disconnected from the gas source (if applicable). Always wear protective gloves and eye protection.

Scrape the Grates: Start by scraping the grill grates with a grill brush or scraper. This removes any loose debris and residue. For stubborn, stuck-on grime, use a grill stone or a ball of aluminum foil.

Remove Grates and Burners: If possible, remove the grates and burners for a thorough cleaning. Scrub them with warm, soapy water and a brush. Rinse and dry thoroughly before reassembling.

Clean the Inside: Wipe down the interior of the grill with a mixture of warm, soapy water. Pay attention to corners and crevices where grease can accumulate. Rinse and dry.

Empty the Drip Tray: The drip tray can collect a significant amount of grease. Empty and clean it regularly to prevent flare-ups.

Check for Gas Leaks: If you have a gas grill, inspect the gas lines and connections for leaks. A soapy water solution can help identify any bubbles forming, indicating a leak. Address any issues immediately.

Regular Maintenance: Make grill cleaning part of your regular routine, either before or after each use. This will prevent grease buildup and potential fire hazards.

Remember that a clean grill is a safe grill. By taking the time to clean and maintain your grill, you not only reduce the risk of fires but also ensure that your outdoor cooking experiences are enjoyable and trouble-free. If you ever need assistance with fire damage cleanup or restoration services, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle. We're here to help keep your home safe and your grilling adventures worry-free.

Enjoy your grilling season and stay safe!

The Most Common Fire Threats in the Home | SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle

7/28/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is here for your family and business if you have a fire disaster occurs.

House fires are certainly scary experiences no matter how large or destructive they get. Watching your home and possessions go up in flames is not only overwhelming, but it can also create a dangerous situation for you in a matter of minutes. Did you know that over 350,000 homes suffer some degree of fire damage every year in the United States?

House fires can start for all kinds of reasons, but there are definitely some reasons that are more common than others. By learning about the different fire threats around your home, you can help change up some of your lifestyle choices to reduce your risk of experiencing a house fire. Read on as our SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle team explains more!

Lower Your Fire Cleanup Costs After A Fire

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle prioritizes restoring your structure and belongings over replacement after a loss, saving you both time and money.

A loss due to fire is terrible enough as it is without factoring in how much it can cost to restore the damage done to your home. As is the case with most types of loss, quick and immediate action through emergency mitigation services can save you money in the long run by minimizing further damage to both your structure and belongings.

Saving Fire Damaged Possessions

At first glance after the loss many of your personal belonging affected by the flames and smoke may look like they are beyond repair but in reality, they are often recoverable. Don’t give up too easily on saving your family heirlooms as a fire restoration company like SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is trained to identify when items can be salvaged, and when they aren’t able be to be restored to preloss condition, we will reach out to you on whether you would like to still keep the heirloom/belonging regardless of condition. The most important thing you can do is call us quickly to service your belongings, because certain items in your home like drapes, furniture, carpet, walls, and ceilings can absorb smoke. If too much time elapses between the fire damage and fire cleanup, the effects of smoke damage can last for months or longer.

Time Can Cost You Many Possessions

By not securing a restoration company immediately after your fire loss, the amount of damage to property and structure as well as the cost to service them will increase. Less belongings will be salvageable which means they will need to be replaced which is more costly. Some of the items that decrease the chances of restoration with time include your clothing, leather, photographs, books, furniture, kitchen items, and many other things. However, we do not in any way handle firearms and ammunition

Restored To Pre-Loss Condition

As mentioned before, our goal is getting your damaged belongings to back to their preloss condition as it is usually more affordable to restore items than to replace them. That means you shouldn’t throw anything out until you know for sure that it will need to be replaced. Some of the additional services that are associated with fire loss include boarding up your property for security measures, inventorying all salvageable and unsalvageable items, packing and moving your belonging to our facility for cleaning and storage, and moving back your items when you are ready.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle?

As a leader in fire and water cleanup and restoration, SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, our proven system of professionals have sensitively and efficiently handled all sizes and types of losses. We are locally owned and operated, and serve Bear, New Castle, Glasgow, Christiana, Delaware City, St. Georges, Corbit, Wilmington Manor, Minquadale, and the surrounding New Castle County communities.

Battery Safety in Your Bear, DE Home

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle can handle fire damage of any size. We can also service any water loss or mold remediation, so call us at 302-392-6000 now!

It’s National Battery Day! Nowadays, it’s hard to imagine where our lives would be without the day-to-day use of batteries. Despite the ease and comfort batteries bring us, there is serious danger when not properly taking care of them. Even commonly used batteries such as AA and AAA can cause a fire under the right conditions, so it’s crucial to be educated on how to properly handle them.

Important Battery Tips

• Do not store old and new batteries together; they could react and cause the newer ones to lose voltage faster.
• Do not store batteries in a metal container – either keep them in their original packaging or plastic/wood containers.
• Keep batteries away from humid environments.
• Do not puncture or damage batteries.
• Alkaline, manganese, and carbon-zinc can be trashed.
• Store them in a cool place (not fridge) to slow down the internal chemical reaction. Freezing or refrigerating will create condensation on the batteries and cause rust.
• Expiration date only means that the battery power is reducing, they still work!

Be Emergency Ready

Don’t let a crisis or disaster catch you off guard. When taking steps to be prepared, make sure you have reliable batteries for the following items so you can stay safe and informed:

• Flashlights
• Power bank for phone
• Backup battery for computer
• Smoke & Carbon Monoxide detector
• Portable generator
• Emergency radio
• WiFi hotspot
• Solar panel charger

Also consider purchasing as many of these items that share the same type of battery as possible; that way you switch the batteries between the items as needed.

Types of Batteries

Familiarize yourself which which type of batteries you can reuse over and over versus which ones are for one time use

Rechargable

• Lithium-ion
• Nickel-Cadium
• Nickel Metal Hydride

Non- Rechargeable

• Alkaline & Zinc Carbon
• Lithium
• Silver Oxide
• Zinc Air

Don’t forget that most batteries can be recycled, Delaware currently doesn’t have state laws to regulate the recycling of batteries, but you can read up on the federal requirements here. You can also use the Call 2 Recycle website to find the nearest drop-off location to you. It’s amazing to think that all the components of your old batteries can be recycled down and made into brand new batteries!

Why SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle?

Even the most minor fire can leave extensive damage in its wake and become overwhelming to deal with. That’s where we come in. SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle will evaluate the damage to determine what the next steps are, which can range from boarding up and securing your home to mitigating water damage caused by the loss to packing your affected belongings so they can be later restored in our facility. If you want to take some action yourself, read our fire damage emergency tips to learn what you can do before SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle arrives to the scene.

Space Heater Safety Tips for Newark, DE Homes

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is here to minimize the effects of fire damage on both your home and your life.

Portable electric space heaters can be a convenient source of supplemental heat for your home in cold weather. Unfortunately, they can pose significant fire hazards if not used properly. Fire hazards can be caused by space heaters without adequate safety features, space heaters placed near combustibles, or space heaters that are improperly plugged in.
 
Safety should always be a top consideration when using space heaters. Here are some tips for keeping your home safe and warm when it’s cold outside:

• Make sure your space heater has the label showing that it is listed by a recognized testing laboratory.
• Before using any space heater, read the manufacturer’s instructions and warning labels carefully.
• Inspect heaters for cracked or broken plugs or loose connections before each use. If frayed, worn or damaged, do not use the heater.
• Never leave a space heater unattended. Turn it off when you're leaving a room or going to sleep, and don't let pets or children play too close to a space heater.
• Space heaters are only meant to provide supplemental heat and should never be used to warm bedding, cook food, dry clothing or thaw pipes.
• Install smoke alarms on every floor of your home and outside all sleeping areas and test them once a month.
• Proper placement of space heaters is critical. Heaters must be kept at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including papers, clothing and rugs.
• Locate space heaters out of high traffic areas and doorways where they may pose a tripping hazard.
• 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. Do not plug any other electrical devices into the same outlet as the heater.
• Place space heaters on level, flat surfaces. Never place heaters on cabinets, tables, furniture, or carpet, which can overheat and start a fire.
• Always unplug and safely store the heater when it is not in use.

If a Space Heater Has Caused Fire, Smoke or Soot Damage to Your Property Call SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle at (302) 392-6000

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

Heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires in the United States. More than 65,000 home fires are attributed to heating equipment each year. These fire result in hundreds of deaths, thousands of injuries and millions of dollars in property damage. 

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is here to minimize the effects of a fire on both your home and your life. Our certified professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with specialized equipment, expertise, and empathy to get you through this crisis.

Important Fire Safety Tips to Note

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle has fire and smoke specialists trained to help you in your time of need.

When considering the frequency of house fires, it brings into perspective how important fire safety is. House fires not only result in a loss of property and objects of sentimental value, but they can also cause injuries and fatalities that could often be prevented.

There are many fire safety tips to be found online, but it is typically difficult to find the most relevant ones all together—which is exactly why we have made an overview of the most pertinent tips for fire safety for your ease of reference.

An Overview of Fire Safety

Frequently Check Smoke Detectors. Smoke detectors are extremely important to fire safety and should be installed in every bedroom and on every floor. Individuals should also do a routine monthly check to ensure they are operational and replace them every 10 years or as directed by the manufacturer.

Have a Fire Escape Plan. Creating an evacuation plan for the event of a house fire starting is a great way to ensure everyone in your household will know exactly what to do and can act efficiently if a fire starts. Plan out exit routes, meeting places, and for any special provisions your family members may need.

Know How to Operate a Fire Extinguisher. There are many types of fire extinguishers to choose from, so it is advised to get the type you think will be most suited to your needs. Make sure you fully understand how to use it and share the information with your family members as well.

Never Leave Flames Unattended. Because open flames are so common in the household, many people forget the extreme dangers they can pose. Whether it is from a cooktop or candle, a flame can spread to other surfaces in an instant, which is why it is vital to never leave one unattended for any length of time.

Keep a Closed-Door Policy. Nighttime is a common time for house fires to break out, which is why even sleeping with safety in mind is advised. Closing bedroom doors at night can significantly decrease the amount of time a fire takes to spread, giving everyone more reaction time once the flames are detected.

If you’d like to learn more about protecting yourself from a house fire and how SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle’s restoration services can help you recover, get in touch today, to learn more (302) 392-6000

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is locally owned and operated, and serves Bear, New Castle, Glasgow, Christiana, Delaware City, St. Georges, Corbit, Wilmington Manor, Minquadale, and the surrounding New Castle County communities.

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster. Providing emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

What Happens During and After A Fire In Your Home?

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is here to minimize the effects of a fire on both your home and your life.

Fire damage can be a devastating experience for any property owner. A fire can destroy your property and its contents. Understanding the theory of fire can help you work through this unfortunate event.

Three components can wreak havoc on your property during and after a fire incident—fire, smoke, and heat. All of these components can cause a different type of damage, and the restorability depends on which component has caused the most damage.

Fire and Heat

Fire and heat are the most devastating component of a house fire. The heat generated during the fire can cause extensive damage to the non-combustible material in your home as well. In many cases, the material that is entirely or partially damaged in a fire needs to be replaced during the restoration process.

Smoke and Soot Residues 

Smoke and soot arise if there is an imbalance in the three ingredients (fuel, oxygen, and heat) required for burning. In an ideal situation, the burning material combines with the oxygen to generate heat and carbon dioxide, and there is no smoke or soot residue. However, during a house fire, the conditions are far from ideal. As the oxygen supply is not optimal during a house fire—and as the types of fuel available vary greatly—the material burns incompletely and generates smoke.

Smoke contains a variety of components, including suspended particles, gasses, and aerosols. As the smoke particles are microscopic (about 0.1 to 4 microns in size), they can penetrate porous surfaces such as drywall and fabric and cause discoloration and odors. Once these particles settle on surfaces, it is called soot, which can be challenging to clean and can cause extensive damage to your house and belongings. SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle technicians are IICRC certified and have years of experience in handling almost any type of smoke and soot residue. Hydroxyl generators, ozone machines, thermal foggers, and HEPA and carbon-filter air scrubbers are key weapons in our arsenal to combat odors and floating particulates.

Fire Damage Restoration

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same.

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

Fire damage restoration is a job for the professionals at SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle. We have all the equipment and expertise to get your home back to its original condition as soon as possible, "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle today at (302) 392-6000 for your fire and smoke damage cleanup and restoration services.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is locally owned and operated, and serves Bear, New Castle, Glasgow, Christiana, Delaware City, St. Georges, Corbit, Wilmington Manor, Minquadale, and the surrounding New Castle County communities.

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster. Providing emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

How to Get a Quote for Fire Restoration Services

12/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is here to minimize the effects of a fire on both your home and your life.

When a fire damages your property, you want to know how much the repairs will cost. Restoration costs are determined by the extent of the damage. Expenses will increase depending on several factors.

• The amount of damaged building materials and contents
• Materials or contents that can be cleaned
• Materials or contents that must be replaced

Work with Your Insurance Provider
Typically, fire damage restoration is covered under most insurance policies. You should contact your insurance provider to review your coverage and policy limits for fire cleanup and restoration services. Your insurance provider will also be able to recommend a certified fire restoration company.

Get Professional Help
SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle’s professionals have the training, experience, and equipment to handle residential and commercial fire damage emergencies.  After carefully inspecting and testing adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage, SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle will provide you with a detailed scope of work as well as the estimate cost of these recommended services. If you work with a novice or try to make the repairs yourself, you may not follow fire codes, which can cost you more in the long run. In addition, professionals often get better prices on building materials and get the job done faster.

Need a Fire Restoration Estimate?  Call Us Today – (302) 392-6000

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

When a fire emergency happens, you need fire repair and restoration professionals to help you recover from the devastation and minimize further financial and material loss. We understand that the hours and days following a fire emergency can leave you feeling vulnerable, and know that the damage left by a fire often extends beyond the structure itself. SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is here to minimize the effects of a fire on both your home and your life. Our certified professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with specialized equipment, expertise, and empathy to get you through this crisis.

Common Causes of Oven Fires

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle specializes in fire and water damage restoration.

Household fires can be absolutely devastating, particularly if they aren’t contained or dealt with swiftly. The most common place for a blaze to begin is in the kitchen. Your stove and oven are two big potential fire sources, because they generate heat with gas or electricity. Here are contributing factors that can trigger a kitchen fire.

Technical Malfunctions

Ovens can malfunction and start a fire, especially if they are old, poorly maintained, or damaged in some way.

Electric ovens have heating elements that can spark a blaze. Turn off your electric oven if you see sparks or if it is not working properly.

Gas ovens may develop leaks that can lead to explosions. Immediately call the utility company if you smell gas; the odor indicates a leak around your oven or stove.

Cleanliness

Oven fires often happen due to a buildup of grease and other cooking byproducts, from not clean regularly or thoroughly. Even dust can trigger an oven blaze if it gets thick enough.  Clean your oven regularly, especially if you spill something or food boils over inside of it. Only use appropriate cleaning products.

Forgetfulness

Never leave something cooking in the oven without monitoring it regularly. Many fires happen when someone turns on the appliance, leaves something to cook and leaves the room, or even the house, for an extended period. Turn off the oven if you cannot keep an eye on the item while it is baking, and finish cooking it later.

Improper Use

Ovens are meant to cook food, and using them for other purposes can lead to fires. Bake only with cookware approved for use in an oven and never use your oven for:

• Heating your home if your furnace is not working.
• Drying combustible materials.
• Store flammable items when you are not cooking.
• Storage for items, such as pots, pans, and bakeware, when using the oven.

What to Do if You Notice Flames

• Never open the oven door if you see a fire The flames could burn you, ignite your clothing, or spread outside of the appliance.
• Turn off the heat and see if the fire dies out on its own.
• Use a fire extinguisher if the flames spread outside of the oven through the top, sides, or bottom.
• Get out of the house and call the fire department if you do not have an extinguisher or cannot put out the spreading fire
• Always have a repair person evaluate your oven after a fire, as the oven will likely need repairs or replacement.
• Contact SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle at (302) 392-6000 is you are in need of smoke and soot cleanup.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment needed to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

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

Your Belongings and Fire Damage

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is here to minimize the effects of a fire on both your home and your life.

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle  understands your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings make your house more than a structure; they make it home.

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle specializes in restoring contents damaged by fire, water or mold. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition. We use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

Dry Cleaning:                     Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.

Wet Cleaning:                   An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.

Spray and Wipe:              Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.

Foam Cleaning:                Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.

Immersion Cleaning:      Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

Abrasive Cleaning:          Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. Move-out will provide several benefits, including:

• Protecting contents from further on-site damage
• Protecting items from potential damage
• A quicker remodeling process

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

Contents Claim Inventory Service

When a fire emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. We can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings. We take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding.

Document / Photograph Drying

When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water or fire, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the fire damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-fire damage condition, SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. 

Depending on the type of documents and the level of fire, smoke, or soot damage, they have five options for the restoration of documents:

• Air Drying
• Dehumidification
• Freezer Drying
• Vacuum Freeze Drying
• Vacuum Thermal Drying

Electronic Cleanup

Fire damaged electronics can present a serious hazard. Do not attempt to turn on or operate any electrical device that you suspect has been damaged by fire. Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces. If the residues are not removed, corrosion causes electronic failure in the device. We will coordinate the restoration of your electronics.

The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. Electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician.

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (302) 392-6000

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

When a fire emergency happens, you need fire repair and restoration professionals to help you recover from the devastation and minimize further financial and material loss. SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is here to minimize the effects of a fire on both your home and your life. Our certified professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with specialized equipment, expertise, and empathy to get you through this crisis

Home Heating Fires

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle is dedicated to responding immediately to your Bear fire damage emergency.

Facts on Home Heating Fires

• Heating fires are the second leading cause of home fires.
• Fixed and portable space heaters, including wood stoves, are involved in 74 percent of fire-related deaths.
• Nearly half of American families use alternative heating sources such as space heaters, fireplaces, or wood/coal stoves to stay warm.
• Each year over 200 people die from carbon monoxide produced by fuel burning appliances in the home including furnaces, ranges, water heaters and room heaters.
• The number of home fires the American Red Cross has responded to has risen 10% since 2000.
• Only 26 percent of families have actually developed and practiced a home fire escape plan.
• Eighty percent of Americans don’t realize that home fires are the single most common disaster across the nation.
• Having a working smoke alarm reduces one’s chances of dying in a fire by nearly half.

Home Heating Fire Prevention Tips

• Keep all potential sources of fuel like paper, clothing, bedding or rugs at least three feet away from space heaters, stoves, or fireplaces.
• Portable heaters and fireplaces should never be left unattended. Turn off space heaters and make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before going to bed or leaving home.
• If you must use a space heater, place it on a level, hard and nonflammable surface (such as ceramic tile floor), not on rugs or carpets or near bedding or drapes. Keep children and pets away from space heaters.
• When buying a space heater, look for models that shut off automatically if the heater falls over as another safety measure.
• Never use a cooking range or oven to heat your home.
• Keep fire in your fireplace by using a glass or metal fire screen large enough to catch sparks and rolling logs.
• Have wood and coal stoves, fireplaces, chimneys, and furnaces professionally inspected and cleaned once a year.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

When a fire emergency happens, you need fire repair and restoration professionals to help you recover from the devastation and minimize further financial and material loss. We understand that the hours and days following a fire emergency can leave you feeling vulnerable, and know that the damage left by a fire often extends beyond the structure itself. SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle is here to minimize the effects of a fire on both your home and your life. 

Cooking Fire Safety Tips You Can Be Thankful For

12/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle can make a holiday cooking fire "Like it never even happened"

Thanksgiving is the nation’s leading day for cooking fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the number of cooking fires on Thanksgiving is three times as high as on any other day of the year.

In addition to the hazards posed by stovetops, turkey fryers and candles contribute to the elevated fire risk. When following a few basic precautions, preventing a cooking fires is simple. Remember, while you should always have a fire-extinguisher nearby and know how to use it, don’t delay calling 9-1-1. Ideally, use the extinguisher immediately, as someone else calls 9-1-1.

Stovetops and Ovens

It’s easy to become distracted when preparing several dishes at once while also trying to entertain guests. Cooking fires can easily be prevented by following a few simple precautions:

• Clean your stove and oven. Remove food and grease buildup from burners, stovetop and oven.
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop.
• Stay in the home when cooking a turkey, set a timer, and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove.
• Have a flame-resistant oven mitt, potholder or lid nearby to smother any flames.
• If you have an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the oven door closed.
• Check to make sure your smoke alarms are working properly and have an escape plan that the entire family knows if there is a fire.

Turkey Fryers

Never use a turkey fryer indoors, in the garage or on a covered patio because of the fire hazard. Many turkey fires occur while the oil is being heated. Fryers can easily tip over, spilling scalding hot oil, leading to fires, burns or other injuries. Since most fryers do not have automatic thermostatic controls, oil may heat until it catches fire. The sides, lids, and handles get extremely hot and may cause burns.

Turkey Frying Safety Tips:

• Read and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
• Completely thaw the turkey.
• Do not overfill the fryer with oil. Before filling the fryer with oil, test it out with water. Place the turkey inside and then fill it with water until the bird is submerged. Mark the water line on the fryer so you will know how much oil to put in the fryer.
• Never leave the fryer unattended.
• Keep children and pets away from the fryer.
• Only use the oil recommended by the manufacturer.
• Allow at least two feet of space between the liquid propane tank and the fryer burner.
• Potholders or oven mitts should be well-insulated; wear safety goggles to protect eyes from oil splatter.
• If oil begins to smoke, immediately turn OFF the gas supply.
• Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher nearby.
• Never use water to extinguish a grease fire.

Candles

Candles are responsible for an estimated 15,600 residential fires a year, causing 150 deaths, 1,270 injuries, and $539 million in property damage. More than half of candle fires are a result of a candle being placed too close to flammable holiday decorations. Always keep children in mind when decorating.

Cooking Fire Putting A Damper On Your Holiday Fun? Call SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle – (302) 392-6000

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is here to minimize the effects of a fire on both your home and your life. Our certified professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with specialized equipment, expertise, and empathy to get you through this crisis.

National Burn Awareness Week

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

2020 National Burn Awareness Week

Each year, over 450,000 individuals are seen in emergency departments, clinics, or physician’s offices for the treatment of a burn injury in the United States and Canada. In 2014 alone, there were 3,275 recorded deaths from fire and smoke inhalation injuries. The majority of these injuries are preventable. The American Burn Association strives bring awareness to the causes of such devastating and costly injuries and encourages everyone to make simple environmental and behavioral changes that can save lives.

The following facts and tips are meant to be shared and we hope you will use them and pass them on to help spread the word on the dangers that exist and what can be done to decrease the risk.

Contact Burns

A contact burn is a burn caused by touching a hot object.

FACTS

• Roughly 70,000 people went to the hospital emergency department because of contact burns in 2018 (National Electronic Injury Surveillance System- NEISS).
• About one-third of the patients were children under the age of five (5).

TIPS ON AVOIDING A CONTACT BURN

• Supervise children around hot objects at all times.
• Stand at least 3 feet away from hot outdoor objects. Keep area clear of trip hazards. Limit alcohol consumption.
• Protect your feet from hot objects by wearing shoes when walking on hot pavement or sand. Keep pets off hot pavement too.
• Turn heating pads and blankets off before sleep.
• Have hot pads available whenever cooking. Long oven mitts are best when needing to reach in or over hot surfaces, such in an oven or over a grill. Assume all pots and pans are hot.
• Remember to treat items coming from the microwave as you would items from the oven. Limit microwave use by children.
• Unplug tools such as these when not in use, and always treat as if they are still hot. Keep out of reach of children

Non-Fire Cooking Burns

Most burns associated with cooking in 2013-2017 were caused by contact with a hot object or liquid rather than by fire or flame.

FACTS

• Children under five face a higher risk of non-fire cooking burns. These young children account for 6% of the population but much larger percentages of non-fire burn injuries from cooking equipment, tableware such as bowls and cups, and cookware such as pots and pans.
• In contrast to the non-fire burn estimate, reported home structure fires caused by cooking killed 530 people and injured 5,270 people. This was a fraction of total burn injuries caused by cooking, hot food, or hot drinks. Children under five accounted for only 6% of home cooking fire deaths and 3% of home cooking fire injuries. Cooking was still the leading cause of home fire injuries in the under 5 age group.

Non-Fire Cooking Burns Seen at Emergency Rooms 2013-2017 Annual Averages

1. Contact with hot range or oven - 15,700
2. Cookware scald – 13,500
3. Tableware scald – 9,900
4. Contact with hot cookware – 9,400
5. Contact with hot grill – 5,200
6. Microwave oven scald – 5,200
7. Range or oven scald – 3,900

Percent of Non-Fire Cooking-Related Burns Seen at Emergency Rooms 2013-2017 by Children Under 5

1. Tableware Scald – 55%
2. Contact with hot range or oven – 34%
3. Contact with hot grill – 22%
4. Microwave oven scald – 20%
5. Cookware scald – 12%
6. Range or Oven scald – 9%

TIPS

• Ranges or ovens were the most common cooking equipment involved in non-fire cooking burns. Only 14% of thermal burns involving ranges or ovens were due to fire or flame.
• Although tableware is not itself used for cooking, it often holds very hot food, soups or drinks, and may itself be very hot.
• Keep hot foods and liquids away from table and counter edges.
• Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet (1 meter) around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.
• Never hold a child while you are cooking, drinking a hot liquid, or carrying hot foods or liquids.

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is here to minimize the effects of a fire on both your home and your life. Our certified professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with specialized equipment, expertise, and empathy to get you through this crisis.

Your Belongings and Fire Damage

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle is dedicated to responding immediately to your Bear fire damage emergency.

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle  understands your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings make your house more than a structure; they make it home.

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition. We use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

Dry Cleaning: Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.

Wet Cleaning: An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.

Spray and Wipe: Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.

Foam Cleaning: Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.

Immersion Cleaning: Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

Abrasive Cleaning: Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. Move-out will provide several benefits, including:

• Protecting contents from further on-site damage
• Protecting items from potential damage
• A quicker remodeling process

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

Contents Claim Inventory Service

When a fire emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. We can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings. We take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding.

Document / Photograph Drying

When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water or fire, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the fire damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-fire damage condition, SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. 

Depending on the type of documents and the level of fire, smoke, or soot damage, they have five options for the restoration of documents:

• Air Drying
• Dehumidification
• Freezer Drying
• Vacuum Freeze Drying
• Vacuum Thermal Drying

Electronic Cleanup

Fire damaged electronics can present a serious hazard. Do not attempt to turn on or operate any electrical device that you suspect has been damaged by fire. Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces. If the residues are not removed, corrosion causes electronic failure in the device. We will coordinate the restoration of your electronics.

The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. Electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician.

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle Today – (302) 392-6000

Why Do You Need Professional Fire Damage Restoration After A Fire?

5/4/2019 (Permalink)

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today – (302) 392-6000

Fire damage to your home can be traumatic. In addition to the destruction from heat, your property and belongings can be damaged by smoke and soot. Smoke particles can coat walls, ceilings, and almost any surface and cause permanent damage if not cleaned quickly and efficiently.
 
The particles in the smoke contain unburned carbon that can be difficult to remove after a fire. Furthermore, not all particles are alike, and it takes a multi-step process to eliminate them. It’s a job for professionals who have years of training and expertise in fire damage restoration. Here are some strategies that professionals use get rid of smoke and soot damage from your property. 

Strategies are developed based on the type of residue

Here at SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, our expert team evaluates the type of smoke residue and prepares a plan accordingly. Dry smoke residue is easier to clean than wet smoke residue. As dry smoke residue does not stain the surface as intensely as wet smoke residue, it is easier to remove by wiping. In these cases, our IICRC certified technicians use less aggressive methods to clean surfaces.

Wet smoke residues, on the other hand, are significantly harder to clean. The heat streams during a fire can drive these smoke particulates deep into cracks, crevices, and porous surfaces, further exacerbating the difficulty of cleanup. SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle technicians use a variety of methods such as wet cleaning, foam cleaning, and abrasive cleaning to mitigate the damage caused by wet smoke residues.

Deodorizing

Smoke and soot pose another challenge during the restoration process—the odor. If proper precautions are not used during restoration, the odor can linger long after the fire. SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle technicians use Ultra Low Volume (ULV) foggers, heat foggers, deodorizing beads, and other methods to combat odors. Our technicians have years of experience in managing odors after fires of all sizes. We get your home smelling like home again in no time. 

Call SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle at (302) 392-6000 today to talk to one of our fire restoration experts.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is locally owned and operated, and serves Bear, New Castle, Glasgow, Christiana, Delaware City, St. Georges, Corbit, Wilmington Manor, Minquadale, and the surrounding New Castle County communities.

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster. Providing emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

Fire Damage Restoration Service - Water Damage Restoration Service - Water Removal - Flood Damage Service - Sewage Damage & Sewage Removal Service - Mold Remediation Service - Bio-hazard Cleanup - Suicide & Crime Cleanup - Board-up and Roof Tarping

Fire Damage Emergency Tips

4/21/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle is here to minimize the effects of a fire on both your home and your life.

What You Can Do Until Help Arrives

Fire and smoke damage is especially destructive. In many instances your property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts. We specialize in fire and water damage restoration; it’s the cornerstone of our business.

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

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

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

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (302) 392-6000

What to Do After a Fire

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

What NOT To Do After A Fire

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

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is locally owned and operated, and serves Bear, New Castle, Glasgow, Christiana, Delaware City, St. Georges, Corbit, Wilmington Manor, Minquadale, and the surrounding New Castle County communities.

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster. Providing emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

24/7 Fire Damage Restoration Service - 24/7 Water Damage Restoration Service - 24/7 Flood Damage Service - 24/7 Sewage Damage & Sewage Removal Service - 24/7 Mold Remediation Service - 24/7 Bio-hazard Cleanup - 24/7 Suicide & Crime Cleanup - 24/7 Board-up and Roof Tarping

Dangerous Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Space Heater

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle is dedicated to responding immediately to your Bear fire damage emergency.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, space heaters cause 43 percent of home heating fires each year, which are the second leading cause of fire-related deaths. In addition to the risk of fire, space heaters that use kerosene, propane, and natural gas pose an additional risk of releasing carbon dioxide (CO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen dioxide into the air if they aren't properly vented, which can lead to serious health problems and even death.

According to Consumer Reports, electric space heaters might be a safer choice for indoor use, as they don't emit carbon monoxide or other pollutants, but they can still pose a risk of fire if you operate them near flammable materials (like curtains, bedding, or furniture), overload an electrical circuit, or leave them unattended.

Dangerous Mistakes to Avoid

Leaving Them On Unattended

According to the NFPA, space heaters cause 43 percent of home heating fires and 85 percent of home heating fire-related deaths each year. One common mistake that many people make is to leave heaters on unattended, which includes while they are sleeping. This also makes them a dangerous choice for heating a nursery or child's room.

Using Gas or Kerosene Indoors

As Iowa State University notes, gas and kerosene space heaters are inexpensive and portable, which make them popular this time of year. But because they aren't vented to the outside, like your gas or propane furnace or fireplace, they can release harmful gases into the air like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide, which can cause symptoms like headaches, coughing, sleepiness, and even death. If you do use one of these heaters you should ventilate your home, as directed by the owner's manual, and using a carbon monoxide detector.

Letting Your Kids Nearby

This might seem like common sense, but Consumer Reports warns parents to keep their kids away from space heaters. This means you shouldn't let them touch them at all, play with the buttons, or move them, even if you are around to supervise. Instead, it's best to not use one if you can't keep your kids a safe distance away.

Placing Them Up High

According to Consumer Reports, you should never place a space heater on top of a dresser, table, or other piece of furniture. While it may seem like an ideal way to keep them out of your kids' reach, they could fall or be pulled off and start a fire, become unplugged, or result in burns or other injuries. The NFPA adds that you should use gates to create a "safe zone" of at least three feet around your space heater, to keep kids and pets a safe distance away.

Overloading a Circuit

According to Consumer Reports, space heaters can pose a risk of electrical fires, too. If you use one you should be careful to not overload your circuits by plugging directly into the wall, using a three-prong extension cord or a using a power strip with a surge protector.

Placing Them Near Flammable Items

According to the NFPA, operating a portable space heater near items that caught fire (like furniture, curtains, or bedding), or where flammable items like clothing or towels could fall on them, resulted in 53 percent of home-heating related fire deaths between 2010 and 2015. Consumer Reports adds that as tempting as it might be, you should never use a space heater to dry or warm up clothing or shoes, as that can also pose a fire risk.

Forgetting About Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

According to the NFPA, the best way to keep your family safe from home-heating dangers during the winter months is to install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. They recommend installing interconnected smoke alarms — which will all go off at the same time — inside and outside each bedroom on every level of your home, and to test them monthly. They also advise avoiding gas and propane heaters that don't vent to the outside, and installing carbon monoxide detectors to alert you to this danger that you can't see or smell.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is locally owned and operated, and serves Bear, New Castle, Glasgow, Christiana, Delaware City, St. Georges, Corbit, Wilmington Manor, Minquadale, and the surrounding New Castle County communities.

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster. Providing emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

24/7 Fire Damage Restoration Service - 24/7 Water Damage Restoration Service - 24/7 Flood Damage Service - 24/7 Sewage Damage & Sewage Removal Service - 24/7 Mold Remediation Service - 24/7 Bio-hazard Cleanup - 24/7 Suicide & Crime Cleanup - 24/7 Board-up and Roof Tarping

Your Belongings and Fire Damage

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle is dedicated to responding immediately to your Bear fire damage emergency.

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle  understands your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings make your house more than a structure; they make it home.

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition. We use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

Dry Cleaning: Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.

Wet Cleaning: An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.

Spray and Wipe: Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.

Foam Cleaning: Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.

Abrasive Cleaning: Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.

Immersion Cleaning: Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. Move-out will provide several benefits, including:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

Electronic Cleanup

Fire damaged electronics can present a serious hazard. Do not attempt to turn on or operate any electrical device that you suspect has been damaged by fire. Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces. If the residues are not removed, corrosion causes electronic failure in the device. We will coordinate the restoration of your electronics, including:

• Television sets
• DVD players
• Computers
• And more

The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. Electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician.

Document / Photograph Drying

When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water or fire, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the fire damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-fire damage condition, SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. 

Depending on the type of documents and the level of fire, smoke, or soot damage, they have five options for the restoration of documents:

• Air Drying
• Dehumidification
• Freezer Drying
• Vacuum Freeze Drying
• Vacuum Thermal Drying

Contents Claim Inventory Service

When a fire emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. We can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings. We take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding.

• Our Contents Claim Inventory Service:
• Preloss list and value of contents
• Detailed and accurate report
• Better information to settle claims quicker
• Assistance with burden of proof for claim.

Peace of mind when you need it most!

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle Today – (302) 392-6000

Know Your Fire Facts!

11/14/2018 (Permalink)

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle (302) 392-6000.

Below are important facts provided by the National Fire Protection Association to help you understand how common and dangerous home fires can be!

Home Fires

• U.S. fire departments respond to an average of one home fire every 86 seconds.
• Between 2011 and 2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 358,500 home structure fires each year. These fires caused 12,300 civilian injuries, 2,510 civilian deaths, and $6.7 billion in direct damage.
• On average, seven people per day die in U.S. home fires.
• Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries.
• For decades, smoking has been the leading cause of home fire deaths.
• Heating equipment is involved in one in every five home-fire deaths

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is locally owned and operated, and serves Bear, New Castle, Glasgow, Christiana, Delaware City, St. Georges, Corbit, Wilmington Manor, Minquadale, and the surrounding New Castle County communities.

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster. Providing emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

24/7 Fire Damage Restoration Service - 24/7 Water Damage Restoration Service - 24/7 Flood Damage Service - 24/7 Sewage Damage & Sewage Removal Service - 24/7 Mold Remediation Service - 24/7 Bio-hazard Cleanup - 24/7 Suicide & Crime Cleanup - 24/7 Board-up and Roof Tarping

6 Fire Damage Restoration Tips

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle specializes in fire and water damage restoration.

To DIY or Not to DIY, That is the Question

Fire damage restoration is tough work. People call SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle frequently to ask for advice on how to clean up after a fire. In this article, we’re sharing seven of the best tips we give people who ask about fire damage restoration.

Most people can put these tips into practice. But remember that fire damage restoration takes time, work, and skill. Realistically consider whether you want to try these ideas on your own or whether you’d be better off hiring a certified cleaning and restoration specialist.

Remove Smoke Damage

With any fire you’ll have a degree of smoke damage to your walls, wallpaper, and paint. If the smoke damage is not too serious, you should be able to scrub it clean with detergents and bleach. Soot from smoke damage is greasy stuff, so always try to dust as much of it off from a surface before trying to scrub the surface clean. Often, you’ll want to repaint, but make sure all surfaces are clean and dry before you paint.

Limit Activity and Other Simple Fire Damage Restoration Steps

Until your house is restored, limit your activity and movement in the house. This helps prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets. Keep people’s hands clean so you don’t further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork. Protect your things by placing clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas. Before you clean, know the best cleaning method for that particular cleaning job (for example, you can clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.) Wash both sides of the leaves on your houseplants. Change your HVAC filter and tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

Get Rid of Mold and Mildew

Firefighters are great. They save many lives and many homes. But they do introduce mold and mildew into houses when they must use water to extinguish a fire. SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle highly recommends you hire fire damage restoration professionals to deal with mold and mildew. Mold and mildew can cause serious health problems. It’s difficult for a nonprofessional to know for certain if he has thoroughly cleaned up all the areas affected by mold and mildew. And mold and mildew can contaminate your furniture, carpets, clothing, mattresses, walls, and vents. The best thing you can do immediately is to air out every room and clean out all vents and filters.

Replace Carpets. Clean and Dry Your Floors.

Your floors and carpets end up absorbing the worst of the damage from the water used to put out a fire. In almost every case, SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle recommends that you pull up any carpets that have water damage and replace them. Water can also seep underneath vinyl flooring and into the cracks in hardwood. You must address this. If you have experience with flooring, you can lift it up and clean under it. But you may want to call a professional fire damage restoration company to assist you.

Avoid Smearing Soot Into Clothing

Cleaning smoke damage from clothing is one of the biggest jobs you’ll have after a fire. Make sure you don’t smear the greasy soot into your clothing or just throw the smoky clothes into the wash. Oftentimes dry cleaning is the best bet; look for a dry cleaner that has experience with post-fire laundry. Removing smoke odor is another issue, which we’ve covered it in another blog post.

Scrub, Soak, and Clean Dishes

You should thoroughly clean your dishes after a fire, because they will be in contact with your food. Scrub all dishes well, let them soak in a solution of bleach and water (2 tablespoons of bleach per gallon) for at least 20 minutes, and scrub some more for safety. When in doubt, if a dish, pot, or pan won’t come clean, cut your losses and throw it out—especially rubber or wooden dishes that absorb smoke.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

- 24/7 Fire Damage Restoration Service - 24/7 Water Damage Restoration Service - 24/7 Flood Damage Service - 24/7 Sewage Damage & Sewage Removal Service - 24/7 Mold Remediation Service - 24/7 Bio-hazard Cleanup - 24/7 Suicide & Crime Cleanup - 24/7 Board-up and Roof Tarping

What to Expect During the Fire Cleanup Process

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

The restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle

Every fire damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same.

If your home has recently sustained smoke damage or soot damage, it’s important to call fire restoration experts. Unless you have professional tools and expertise at your disposal, it can be nearly impossible to effectively get rid of the damage and odor on your own. Wondering what happens during the typical smoke cleaning process? Here’s what you can expect.

Thorough Inspection

Before cleanup and restoration begins, professional fire restoration experts will first thoroughly inspect the damage and make an assessment. Then they create a plan of action. 

Board-Up Services

 
Fire damage frequently breaks or damages windows, doors, walls, and roofs. When these crucial exterior elements are damaged, they expose the interior of the home to the elements. During the professional smoke restoration process, board-up services are provided as needed to maintain security and prevent further damage. 

Water Removal 

If the fire in your home was put out with water, your home probably still has residual moisture. Fire restoration services remove excess water and dry the area with professional-grade air movers and dehumidifiers to minimize water damage. 

Smoke Removal

Smoke damage can be stubborn and pervasive. Fortunately, fire restoration professionals have specialized equipment that can remove soot and smoke from various surfaces in the home. 

Cleaning

Once water and smoke have been removed, professional cleaning services can be performed. During this process, indoor structures and belongings are cleaned with various techniques and products. Even odors are removed with the help of industrial fogging equipment and air scrubbers. 

Restoration

The final step to restoring smoke and fire damage is restoring all areas that need it. As part of the restoration process, new carpet may be installed and drywall may be replaced. 

As you can see, it would be practically impossible for a homeowner to do all these steps alone. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by smoke damage in your home, take some of the burden off your shoulders by letting the professional fire restoration experts at SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle repair the damage. Learn more about our fire restoration process.

Call SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE at (302) 392-6000 for all your cleaning, water damage, fire damage, and mold remediation needs! 

What to Expect After a Fire in Your Bear Home

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle specializes in fire and water damage restoration

Apart from the threat of physical harm, fire accidents also damage your property. Smoke and soot are the major culprits when it comes to property damage. So, what happens when you experience fire damage—do you buy a new home, or do you move out? These alternatives are costly and unnecessary. A professional fire damage restoration company can make your home as good as new.

What Happens After a Fire Accident?

A lot of smoke and soot is produced from the items in your house that burn up. As smoke and soot linger in the air, they are deposited on various surfaces in your home. Walls, carpets, appliances, and ceilings begin to yellow and absorb odor. With prolonged exposure to these elements, it becomes harder to remove them.

Handling the aftermath of fire damage might seem a simple task to you, but it is a lot more involved than you think. Hiring a professional will help ensure quick and efficient restoration.

What Does Fire Damage Restoration Involve?

The focus of a fire damage restoration company is to take your home back to its original state. They take a series of steps guaranteed to leave your home free from any smoke damage or soot. Here are the steps:

Post-damage Inspection

The specialist inspects the structure to determine the extent of damage. Your premises are checked for smoke damage and any structural damage. The aim of inspection is to understand the extent of the damage and determine the proper cleaning method.

Protection of Unaffected Areas

There may be items in your home that were not touched by the fire. The specialist separates the items that can be salvaged and covers them to prevent further losses.

The Restoration Process

It’s up to the specialist to determine the type of restoration to use in your home. The specialist then removes any damaged materials and debris that resulted from the fire. After removal, extensively damaged structural elements are replaced.

During the fire incident, firefighters use a lot of water to put out the fire. The specialist performs water extraction to remove any excess moisture. Afterwards, the specialist removes soot and ash and performs any remaining, necessary steps for successful restoration. The process culminates in a new paint job.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is locally owned and operated, and serves Bear, New Castle, Glasgow, Christiana, Delaware City, St. Georges, Corbit, Wilmington Manor, Minquadale, and the surrounding New Castle County communities.

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster. Providing emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

- 24/7 Fire Damage Restoration Service - 24/7 Water Damage Restoration Service - 24/7 Flood Damage Service - 24/7 Sewage Damage & Sewage Removal Service - 24/7 Mold Remediation Service - 24/7 Bio-hazard Cleanup - 24/7 Suicide & Crime Cleanup - 24/7 Board-up and Roof Tarping

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle: Fire Damage Cleanup

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

You may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis

The Details of Fire Damage and Smoke Damage Cleanup 

Unlike the flames of a house fire, the smoke that is produced is almost impossible to contain. It can pollute areas of your home that were never burned, and its odor can linger for years if not properly remediated. Smoke can contain pollutants, toxic chemicals that can cause serious illness and even death. While the cleanup after fire damage may appear to be a simple process, the average homeowner will simply not be prepared for what this task entails. 

About Smoke and Fire Damage

The nature of smoke will differ depending on the material that produces it. For example, when wood is combusted, the type of smoke it produces is different from plastics that have been combusted. Each type of smoke leaves its own kind of residue, and the different types of residue may react differently to cleaning chemicals. Anyone cleaning up smoke and fire damage should know which chemicals to use, or they risk worsening the property damage. The wrong chemicals can seal the smell into carpets, walls, and ceilings instead of deodorizing the home. This kind of damage often occurs when homeowners attempt to clean up their fire-damaged home on their own. The damaged items will not be restorable; they will need to be discarded and replaced. 

Benefits of Professional Smoke and Fire Damage Cleanup

Correct Equipment

Equipment like ozone generators can be used to get rid of the smoke odor in your fire-damaged home, and restoration professionals will have access to these machines along with the expertise to use them safely. Note that ozone gas can be dangerous if it is used incorrectly.

Effective Soot Removal Methods

Soot is one of the byproducts of smoke. It is oil based and can be a magnet for dirt when it gets into carpets, curtains, and upholstered furniture. One of the most important first steps when cleaning up smoke damage is to remove the soot, which can be difficult. Special methods and tools are needed to avoid grinding it even further into the fabric. Use of a standard household vacuum cleaner may make the problem worse. A professional restoration company will have the equipment and training to perform effective soot removal and to restore your belongings to their preloss condition. 

Safety Gear

Restoration professionals are aware of the risks associated with smoke. They have protective clothing and equipment to protect them from toxic residue that may include carcinogens like benzene and formaldehyde. 

Cleaning up smoke and fire damage is not something you should try to handle yourself. While you may be able rent some of the tools needed, they will be very different from those used by professionals. In addition, you might not follow all the necessary steps for smoke damage restoration to be performed successfully. To learn more about restoration after a fire or get recommendations on a restoration company to use, your insurance agent can help. 

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is locally owned and operated, and serves Bear, New Castle, Glasgow, Christiana, Delaware City, St. Georges, Corbit, Wilmington Manor, Minquadale, and the surrounding New Castle County communities.

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster. Providing emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

- 24/7 Fire Damage Restoration Service - 24/7 Water Damage Restoration Service - 24/7 Flood Damage Service - 24/7 Sewage Damage & Sewage Removal Service - 24/7 Mold Remediation Service - 24/7 Bio-hazard Cleanup - 24/7 Suicide & Crime Cleanup - 24/7 Board-up and Roof Tarping

What's the Best Way to Get a Quote for Commercial Fire Restoration?

8/17/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle has the knowledge and the specialized equipment to get your property back to pre-fire condition.

When a fire damages your commercial building, you want to know how much the repairs will cost. This type of estimate relies on a variety of factors, including:

• Who does the repairs
• How long the fire burned
• What fueled the fire
• How long the restoration takes

Although so many elements affect the price, you may be able to get a quote if you work with the right people.

Work with Your Insurance Provider

Chances are that some of the fire damage restoration will be covered by your insurance policy. While you probably have some idea of what your coverage is, you may not know exactly how much the policy pays for. You can call your insurance provider to find out what parts of the fire cleanup are fully or partially covered. For example, your insurance may help pay for the cleanup, structure repairs, belonging restoration and/or replacement, or building restoration.

Working with your insurance provider will also help you find professionals in your network. Some providers may only want you to work with licensed contractors to do the repairs. Learning about these requirements will make filing your claim easier.

Get Professional Help

If you want to know how much you’ll have to pay after a commercial fire, you need to work with a team of certified fire restoration specialist. SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle’s professionals have the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies.  After carefully inspecting and testing adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage, SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle will provide you with a detailed scope of work as well as the estimate cost of these recommended services. If you work with a novice or try to make the repairs yourself, you may not follow fire codes, which can cost you more in the long run. In addition, professionals often get better prices on building materials and get the job done faster.

Many repairs need to be made after a fire, and you may want to get an estimate before committing to a specific fire restoration team. Learn more about the professional team at SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle?

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is locally owned and operated, and serves Bear, New Castle, Glasgow, Christiana, Delaware City, St. Georges, Corbit, Wilmington Manor, Minquadale, and the surrounding New Castle County communities.

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialist are faster to any size disaster. Providing emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

- 24/7 Fire Damage Restoration Service - 24/7 Water Damage Restoration Service - 24/7 Flood Damage Service - 24/7 Sewage Damage & Sewage Removal Service - 24/7 Mold Remediation Service - 24/7 Bio-hazard Cleanup - 24/7 Suicide & Crime Cleanup - 24/7 Board-up and Roof Tarping

Household Items That Can Survive a House Fire

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear / New Castle specializes in restoring contents damaged by fire, smoke, water or mold.

Items That Are Often Found Intact Underneath Rubble After a House Fire

Suffering a house fire is a devastating experience. When the damage is severe, countless precious belongings are lost. However, in many cases, there are a few items that withstand the inferno. The average house fire burns at about 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit, which isn’t hot enough to destroy most metals and earthly-made substances. And if an item is well placed and small in size, its chances of survival increase drastically. Below is a list of items that are often found intact underneath rubble after a house fire.

Jewelry

Although they may endure superficial damage when they’re engulfed by flames, most jewelry maintains its composition amid high heat.

• Diamonds, which are formed below the earth’s surface under intense heat and pressure, melt at about 6,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Gold melts at a much cooler temperature, about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. But that’s enough to survive most house fires.

• Platinum jewelry is the priciest, so it’s a good thing that the metal’s melting point is just higher than 3,200 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Sapphire and ruby stones also possess extremely high melting points.

Silver Coins

Coin collectors who own many silver coins might find them to be their most durable possessions.

• Silver’s melting point is just below 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit.

Filing Cabinets

Steel filing cabinets are built to last so that important documents won’t be destroyed during a fire. Their steel composition and safe placement within a home, often away from the kitchen or fireplace, give them a high survival rate.

Tools

You might not have to repurchase your tools after a fire. Steel tools are extremely durable.

• Carbon steel’s melting point is between 2,600 and 2,800 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Stainless steel’s melting point is roughly 2,700 degrees Fahrenheit.

Silverware

Most forks, knives, and spoons are composed of stainless steel, are small in size, and are placed in a confined space. These factors often enable them to take the heat.

Cookware

Cookware is built to endure extremely high temperatures. Most pots and pans are made of steel and iron, the latter of which melts at just below 2,800 degrees Fahrenheit. Like silverware, their placement within confined spaces helps them survive the not-so-severe fires.

Barbecue Grill

An item made for fireside cooking can outlast a fire. Most grills are composed of steel or iron, which allows them to last for decades. Most are kept in the backyard away from the worst of the inferno. But they still may have to endure falling debris.

Stone Table

The oldest rocks on this plant have survived billions of years of wear and tear, so it’s no surprise that a stone table could outlast a simple house fire. It took thousands of degrees of heat to make the rocks, and it’ll take thousands of degrees of heat to melt them.

Fire Safe

The steel composition of a fire safe allows it endure 1,700-degree infernos.

Your Belongings and Fire Damage

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle understands your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings make your house more than a structure; they make it your home.

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition.

CallSERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DEat(302) 392-6000for all your contents restoration, water damage, fire damage, sewage cleanup and mold remediation needs!

14 Bad Habits That Could Burn Down Your House

11/22/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Bad Habits You Should Break

House fires are more common than you may realize, with potential fire starters like light bulbs, laptops, and lint traps hiding in plain sight throughout your home, disguised as harmless, everyday necessities. Are you guilty of these bad habits that could burn your house down?

Piling Up Dirty Rags

A pile of chemical-soaked rags could trigger the perfect storm: Left unattended, these rags are a very real fire hazard, as they could oxidize and spontaneously combust, causing a house fire. To dispose of soiled rags properly, place them in a metal can that's been filled with water, and cover it with a tight-fitting lid, or lay them flat outside to dry. 

Misusing Electric Blankets

An electric blanket poses a potential fire hazard if used improperly. Never allow pets to snuggle up on top, and don't pile extra covers over the electric blanket, because excessive heat buildup may lead to fire. Keep your electric blanket at its lowest setting, never bend the coils, and always turn it off in the morning.

Neglecting Appliance Recalls

Home appliances cause an estimated 150,000 fires each year, and a significant number of these were caused by defective appliances. To keep on top of recalls and prevent disaster in your home, register your appliance with the manufacturer or go to www.recalls.gov to find out if any of your models are on the list.

Lingering Dryer Lint

Emptying the lint screen increases your dryer’s efficiency, but did you know that lint is also flammable? Mixing excessive heat with lint buildup is a recipe for disaster. Clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct regularly, as well as the interior of the dryer frame, to clear away lint and clogs, and reduce the risk of fire.

Letting Your Laptop Overheat

When you leave your laptop on your bed, couch, rug, or other soft, flammable surface, you run the risk of restricting airflow through the cooling vents, which can cause your laptop to overheat and possibly catch fire. To prevent fires, keep your laptop on a desk or table instead. 

Choosing the Wrong Wattage

Using a 60-watt bulb in a 40-watt socket puts your home at risk. Installing a light bulb with a wattage that is too high for a lamp or light fixture is a leading cause of electrical fires. Always check the light fixture’s maximum wattage, and never go over the recommended rating.

Using Too Many Extension Cords

Extension cords are meant to be a temporary response to a lack of electrical outlets, not a permanent solution. Connecting a large number of cords for a significant amount of time can cause an overload that leads to a short circuit, which could ignite a fire. If you need additional outlets, hire a qualified electrician to install them, and you'll avoid this problem altogether. 

Performing DIYs You're Not Qualified to Do

Jobs involving electrical wiring, plumbing, and HVAC units should never be completed without a qualified professional. Gas leaks and electrical sparks resulting from the improper installation are a common cause of house fires. Don't put your home and your family at risk by attempting these dangerous DIYs on your own—hire a licensed professional instead. 

Disregarding Dust

Built-up dust can be a fire hazard if it collects in and around electronics, electrical sockets, and even floor heaters. By vacuuming on a regular basis, especially behind your electronics, you’ll significantly reduce the likelihood that particles of dust will catch fire due to prolonged exposure to heat sources.

Storing Batteries Improperly

If you store 9-volt batteries in your kitchen junk drawer, you may be putting your home at risk. When loose batteries roll around with other metals, such as screws or paper clips, the two terminals could short out and generate enough heat to ignite nearby flammables. Put a piece of electrical tape over the terminals, or store the batteries in their original packaging to prevent this possibility. 

Ignoring Uninvited Pesky Guests

Mice and other rodents like to gnaw on electrical wires. Over time, they can remove the sheathing, leaving the wires exposed. Unfortunately, the electric current that travels through the wire generates heat, and in the absence of sheathing this could lead to sparks caused by short circuits, which in turn could ignite the surrounding surfaces. If you suspect a rodent infestation, call a professional exterminator immediately.

Forgetting the Chimney Sweep

Dead birds, raccoon nests, cracked mortar, and built-up creosote are all common causes of chimney fires. The National Fire Protection Association recommends scheduling a professional chimney sweep at least once a year to ensure the safe operation of the chimney. And when you're building a fire in your fireplace, always light it with an approved fire starter—never kerosene. The consequences could be disastrous.  

Overlooking the Range Hood

While ovens and cooktops are the most common sources of kitchen fires, range hoods also pose a potential threat. Over time, grease that has built up on the vent hood filter can drip down onto the cooktop, possibly igniting a fire. From there, the flames could easily reach your cabinets, and before you know it, your kitchen could be consumed by fire. Don't let this happen to you! Regularly clean and maintain your range hood to keep your kitchen out of harm's way. 

Arranging Furniture Unwisely

If your furniture is too close to your wood stove, it could spontaneously ignite. Pyrolysis, a chemical decomposition of a combustible item, occurs when an object (say, a sofa) is continually exposed to a heat source (a wood stove) and eventually dries out. This leading yet seldom-considered cause of structural fires does not require a direct flame; all it takes is heat and time for ignition to occur.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (302) 392-6000

Why Choose SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle?

As fire and water restoration specialists, we have the training, experience and specialized equipment necessary to restore your home or business. We are committed to providing superior service while restoring your property back to pre-fire condition.

What You Can Do Until Help Arrives

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

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

How TO’s & Quick Tips

• Fire Tips
• Water Tips
• Biohazard Tips
• Mold Tips
• Cleaning Tips

Halloween Fire Safety Tips

10/26/2017 (Permalink)

Have a Safe & Happy Halloween from SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE

How Avoid Potential Fire Damage In Delaware City, DE

For each year from 2011 to 2013, an estimated 10,300 fires were reported to fire departments in the United States over a three-day period around Halloween and caused an estimated 25 deaths, 125 injuries and $83 million in property loss. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) nearly half of decoration fires in homes occurred because the decorations were too close to a heat source.

Don't let these statistics scare you away from celebrating Halloween to the fullest! The vast majority of these fires are easily preventable. Here are a few safety tips to help ensure the holiday remains festive and fun.

• Keep decorations far away from open flames and other heat sources like lights and heaters. Remember to keep all of your home's exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes.

• Try a battery-operated candle or glow stick in jack-o'-lanterns. If you want to use real candles, be extremely careful. In this case, use long, fireplace-style matches or a utility lighter when lighting them inside jack-o'-lanterns. If there are children around, make sure they are watched at all times when candles are lit. Place the lit pumpkins well away from anything that can burn and far away from driveways, doorsteps, walkways and yards -- anyplace where trick-or-treaters may walk.

• Use flashlights as alternatives to candles or torch lights when decorating walkways and yards. They are much safer for trick-or-treaters whose costumes may brush up against the lighting as they walk to from your door.

• Choose costumes that don't require long-trailing fabric. If your child is wearing a mask, make sure the eye holes are large enough so they can clearly see where he is walking to prevent trips or falls near dangerous or flammable items.

• Talk to your children and remind them to stay away from open flames, including jack-o'-lanterns with candles inside. Provide them with flashlights or glow sticks to carry for lighting as part of their costume.

Source: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE provides these Halloween safety tips so you can have a safe and fun Halloween. If during the holiday season your home is harmed by water damage, fire damage, or damage from a late season storm, call on us to start the cleanup process. We are available 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays. 

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (302) 392-6000

Electrical Fires: Safety Tips to Reduce Your Risk

10/26/2017 (Permalink)

Call the trained fire damage professionals at SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE – (302) 392-6000.

Reducing the Risk of Electrical Fires in Your Bear, DE Home Can Be Simple

With technology and electronic accessories being an inescapable part of day-to-day activities, it means that electricity is in high-demand and is working around the clock in the home setting. Undoubtedly, homes today are generating a tremendous amount of electricity, and the greater the electric load, the greater the risk of electric-related fires.

Below are safety measures one can take to reduce the risk of electrical fires in your home:

• Inspect your home for loose, shorted and faulty wires that increase the risk of potential electrical fires, as electric wiring eventually needs to be replaced. Signs that faulty wiring is a pressing issue can include flickering lamps, buzzing outlets, or outlets that spark when an electronic device is plugged into it.
• Utilize safety measures with electric cords. This includes replacing cords that are loose, frayed or contain cracks. Never place cords in areas that receive a large volume of foot traffic, such as under mats or carpeting. Avoid tacking cords to surfaces with nails or staples.
• Only use the correct wattage light bulbs in all fixtures. If the wattage is higher than the requirement noted on the lamp or appliance, replace the bulbs immediately. Firmly secure light bulbs in the socket to safeguard them from overheating.
• Use a surge protector to guard appliances and other electronics in your home. It is important that homeowners use a surge protector that is equivalent to the equipment one has while keeping in mind that they only protect the items that are directly plugged into them.
• As the average daily temperature declines, portable space heaters run a high risk of electrical fires. Other risks include lamps, blow dryers, hair straighteners, and clothing irons. Any object made of fabric, such as towels and bath mats, can quickly ignite and spread fire rapidly.

Reducing the risk of electrical fires in your home is relatively simple, but the safety benefits are worth a great deal of peace-of-mind. 

What To Do After a Fire

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

What NOT To Do After a Fire

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

We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster 

When fire and water damage strikes, a fast response is critical. We’re dedicated to responding immediately, day or night, to your Bear, DE home or business. A faster response helps to prevent secondary damage and to reduce cost.

Call SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE at (302) 392-6000 for all your cleaning, water damage, fire damage and mold remediation needs! 

What Is A Puff Back?

10/12/2017 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE to take care of the cleaning of the soot and chemicals.302-392-6000

How Can SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle Help You After A Puff Back In Your Bear, DE Home?

Is Your Furnace Ready for Winter? 
It doesn't get much worse than finally giving into turning on your furnace for the next few months and having it blow a whole bunch of soot back out through your entire home. 

What is a Puff Back? 
The term "Puff Back" refers to the sudden explosion of soot into your home or business caused by a malfunction in the heating system. This soot is usually a sticky, greasy, grimy mess that can present a sever health hazard. All of those minuscule, oil based particles embed themselves in your curtains, carpets, and clothing while contaminating the air with known carcinogens. 

How Can I Know if I had a Puff Back?
Puff Backs are characterized by the oily black soot left behind, often appearing like spider webs. The soot and other debris from the explosion can easily be carried throughout your home by the exhaust and heating systems meaning that every room in your home has the potential to be damaged.   

You might be tempted to try and clean up this mess by yourself, but running a vacuum over the soot only grinds it deeper and creates stains that will never come out. Wiping the soot from walls and ceilings creates a place where paint will no longer stick, and unless the soot is quickly and professionally removed, it can cause corrosion of metal on doorknobs, faucets, and even electronic equipment in the home. Because every inch of the home is affected, a puff back is an overwhelming job to clean properly. 

Here are some helpful tips on what you should do, should a puff back occur in your home:

1. Assess the situation and the amount of damage that was done.
2. Wash all affected clothing and fabrics in the house - some may require professional cleaning.
3. Throw away all exposed foods.
4. Call a repairman to fix the malfunctioning furnace.
5. Call SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE to take care of the cleaning of the soot and chemicals.

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE has highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding to any size disaster with 24-hour emergency response.

Contact us today, at 302-392-600, to see what SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE can do to help you! 

Do You Have The Correct Type Of Fire Extinguisher In Your New Castle, DE Property

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – (302) 392-6000

5 Types of Fire Extinguishers    

Portable fire extinguishers can save lives and property when a small, contained fire breaks out in your New Castle County, DE home or business. Different types of fire extinguishers fight different types of fire  and using the wrong one may make the fire worse. Would you know which to use? The following information can help you be better prepared in case of a fire.

Use The Correct Fire Extinguisher For The Fire

There are five classes of fire, each involving a different material. Determine what type of fire extinguisher you own by looking for the symbol on the label and matching it to one of the descriptions below. 

Many homes and businesses use multipurpose fire extinguishers that are good for three classes of fires – A, B and C. If you already own a fire extinguisher, check the label to see what class of fire it is good for. Be on the lookout for these standard symbols. If you see a red slash through a picture, it means that the extinguisher should not be used on that class of fire. 

CLASS A: ORDINARY COMUSTIBLES

Fire extinguishers marked with the “A” Symbol should be used to contain fires involving ordinary combustibles, including paper, wood, cloth, trash, rubber and plastic.

CLASS B: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS

Fire extinguishers marked with the “B” Symbol should be used to contain fires involving flammable liquid – oil, grease, gasoline, paint, solvents and tar.

CLASS C: ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

Fire extinguishers marked with the “C” Symbol should be used to contain fires involving electrical equipment including wiring, fuse boxes, circuit breakers, machinery and appliances that have electricity running through them. It’s important to use this extinguisher because its contents do not conduct electricity, while the others do.

CLASS D: COMBUSTIBLE METALS

Fire extinguishers marked with the “D” Symbol should be used to contain fires involving combustible metals like magnesium, titanium, zirconium,. Sodium, lithium and potassium.

CLASS K: COMUSTIBLE COOKING

Fire extinguishers marked with the “K” Symbol should be used to contain fires involving combustible cooking – kitchen fires involving large amounts of heating grease  including paper, wood, cloth, trash, rubber and plastic.

Fight or Flee

Once you know what type of fire extinguisher to use, you will need to understand when and how to use it. You may only have moments since small fires can grow into large ones in a matter of seconds. If you are not sure whether it is safe to fight the fire, you should leave the scene, call 911 and let the fire department control it.

Fire extinguishers, correctly used on the type of fire they are intended for, can have a large role in stopping major fire damage and dollar losses. When walking by a fire extinguisher, you'll know that all of the letters and numbers have specific meanings and why it is located where it is.

If your business experiences a fire loss, call the fire and water damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE and we’ll respond immediately to get you back to business.

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Fire and Water Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises
• Highly Trained Fire and Water Damage Restoration Specialists

Until help arrives, please refer to our Fire Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (302) 392-6000

National Home Fire Drill Day - October 14, 2017: New Castle County, DE

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

A home fire happens every 86 seconds, yet half of parents say their kids wouldn’t know what to do if their smoke alarm went off

Practice Your Home Fire Drill - Practice Makes Perfect!

Practice your home fire escape plan twice a year, making the drill as realistic as possible.

Allow children to master fire escape planning and practice before holding a fire drill at night when they are sleeping. The objective is to practice, not to frighten, so telling children there will be a drill before they go to bed can be as effective as a surprise drill.

It's important to determine during the drill whether children and others can readily waken to the sound of the smoke alarm. If they fail to awaken, make sure that someone is assigned to wake them up as part of the drill and in a real emergency situation.

If your home has two floors, every family member (including children) must be able to escape from the second floor rooms. Escape ladders can be placed in or near windows to provide an additional escape route. Review the manufacturer's instructions carefully so you'll be able to use a safety ladder in an emergency. Practice setting up the ladder from a first floor window to make sure you can do it correctly and quickly. Children should only practice with a grown-up, and only from a first-story window. Store the ladder near the window, in an easily accessible location. You don't want to have to search for it during a fire.”

When you practice make it fun, see who can get out of the house the safest & quickest, don't just walk, but low crawl to simulate smoke conditions.

Don't forget to practice "Stop, Drop & Roll." Keep practicing until everyone can get out of the house within 2 minutes.

Call 911 - Once everyone is safely out of the house, be sure to call 911. You may not have a cell phone with you when you are evacuating, so get to a neighbor's house and make the call.

There is nothing more important than the safety of you and your family. So be sure to create a plan and practice the plan.

Once it has been determined that it is safe to return to your home and the time has come to begin the cleanup, remember we are here to help.

3 Basic Steps To A Home Fire Drill

STEP 1.  KNOW WHERE TO GO

• Pick a safety spot that’s near your home and a safe distance away.
• Explain to your kids that when the smoke alarm beeps, they need to get out of the house quickly and meet at that safety spot.

STEP 2.  CHECK YOUR SMOKE ALARMS

• Test your smoke alarms with your kids so they know the sound.
• Make sure there’s a smoke alarm on every level of your home, and one in each bedroom.

STEP 3.  DO THE DRILL

• Have kids head to their bedrooms and wait for the drill to begin.
• Got kids under 6? Assign adults to help anyone who’ll need it.
• Put one adult in charge of sounding the smoke alarm and running the drill.
• Next, sound the smoke alarm, start the timer and have everyone book it to the safety spot.
• Once everyone gets to the safety spot, stop the timer. If you all made it in under two minutes, you each get an imaginary gold medal. If not, give it another try.
• In a real fire, get to the safety spot, then call 911 and keep everyone close until firefighters arrive.

For More Information and Home Fire Drill Games Visit http://homefiredrillday.makesafehappen.com

For more fire prevention tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE online or join us on face book at https://www.facebook.com/SERVPRObearde

Residential and Commercial Restoration and Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE is a trusted leader in the restoration industry. We provide 24-hour emergency service and are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. With the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs, we’re locally owned and operated and can respond immediately to your emergency.

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (302) 392-6000

Smoke and Soot Cleanup After a Fire in Your Bear, DE Home or Business

8/3/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke & Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your New Castle County, DE Home. Call SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your New Castle County, DE Home.

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 Bear/New Castle, DE 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.

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE  understands the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your life and in your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial properties after a fire damage, smoke damage, water damage and/or mold contamination, as well as provides trauma cleanup, vandalism cleanup, carpet cleaning and duct cleaning services for your home or business.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge and experience to restore your property. With a nationwide system of qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE.

If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call us at (302) 392-6000 today!

Visit us online to meet our team and learn more about our services.

Website: www.SERVPRObearnewcastle.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPRObearde

FIRE & SMOKE DAMAGE, DO'S & DON'TS

12/15/2015 (Permalink)

Ever wonder what to do before help arrives after you suffer a fire or smoke damage? 

Check out these emergency tips will assist you in taking the proper action until your SERVPRO Franchise Professional arrives.  To reduce the chance of damage and increase the chances of successful restoration, make sure you follow these Do’s and Don’ts.

DO:

 DON’T:

SERVPRO of Upper Darby, PA & SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE, proudly serves those in need!  We will be on site quickly and our staff will give you the personalized attention you deserve.  We specialize in the cleanup of water damage, fire damage, smoke damage, mold removal, trauma cleanup, vandalism cleanup, carpet cleaning and duct cleaning.  Let us help you make it, “Like it Never Even Happened!”  Visit either of our websites for assistance.  Pennsylvania customers visit –www.SERVPROofupperdarby.com or www.SERVPROofbearnewcastle.com if you’re located in Delaware.  To speak to a qualified team member, call 1-877-352-0700.

FIRE SAFETY TIPS FOR CANDLES AND CHRISTMAS TREES

12/11/2015 (Permalink)

Facts about home holiday fires:

·  One in every three home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.

·  Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious. On average, one of every 31 reported home structure Christmas tree fires result in a death, compared to an average of one death per 144 total reported home structure fires.

·  A heat source too close to the tree causes roughly one in every four of Christmas tree fires.

·  Candles can be dangerous too

More than half (56 percent) of home candle fires occur when something that can catch on fire is too close to the candle.

·  December is the peak time of year for home candle fires.

Source: National Fire Protection Association

Please visit:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/statistics/holiday_infographic.pdf to download the fun, info-graphic poster from FEMA to learn how to put a FREEZE on winter holiday fires.

DON'T FORGET TO WATER YOUR LIVE CHRISTMAS TREES!!!!!

Ever wondered how much more flammable a dry Christmas tree was compared to one that's watered regularly? Click this link and let the National Fire Protection Agency show you!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNjO3wZDVlA

SERVPRO of Upper Darby, PA & SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE, proudly serves those in need!  We will be on site quickly and our staff will give you the personalized attention you deserve.  We specialize in the cleanup of water damage, fire damage, smoke damage, mold removal, trauma cleanup, vandalism cleanup, carpet cleaning and duct cleaning.  Let us help you make it, “Like it Never Even Happened!”  Visit either of our websites for assistance.  Pennsylvania customers visit –www.SERVPROofupperdarby.com or www.SERVPROofbearnewcastle.com if you’re located in Delaware.  To speak to a qualified team member, call 1-877-352-0700.

ELECTRICAL FIRE TIPS

12/7/2015 (Permalink)

A previous report from the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) shows that electrical fires occurring in homes claim the lives of many Americans each year, and injure even more. Many electrical fires in the home or workplace are caused by overloaded circuits and extension cords.

 December and January are peak months for electrical fires. The USFA states that fires occur more often during these months due to the increased time spent indoors, which also increases the use of electrical items such as lighting, heating and appliances. Many electrical fires can be avoided when basic safety precautions are taken.

Follow these safety tips to reduce your risk of an electrical fire:

• Routinely check your electrical appliances and wiring.
• Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged cords immediately.
• Replace any electrical tool or appliance if it overheats, shorts out, gives off smoke or sparks, or causes even small electrical shocks.
• If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
• Use electrical extension cords wisely - never overload extension cords or wall sockets.

 Information provided by U.S. Fire Administration

SERVPRO of Upper Darby, PA & SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE, proudly serves those in need!  We will be on site quickly and our staff will give you the personalized attention you deserve.  We specialize in the cleanup of water damage, fire damage, smoke damage, mold removal, trauma cleanup, vandalism cleanup, carpet cleaning and duct cleaning.  Let us help you make it, “Like it Never Even Happened!”  Visit either of our websites for assistance.  Pennsylvania customers visit –www.SERVPROofupperdarby.com or www.SERVPROofbearnewcastle.com if you’re located in Delaware.  To speak to a qualified team member, call 1-877-352-0700.

DON'T LET TOO MANY HOLIDAY LIGHTS LEAD TO HOLIDAY FIRES!

12/3/2015 (Permalink)

Don’t let too many holiday lights lead to holiday fires by overloading circuits.

Many electrical problems or electrical fires could occur simply because the outlet(s) may be overloaded. Although it’s often tempting to plug a great number of appliances, lights or gadgets into one outlet, it’s a practice that should definitely be avoided, even around the holidays!

According to the U.S Fire Administration (USFA), December and January are peak months for fires to occur, with many of them caused by overloaded extension cords and circuits.  By doing this, one may be unintentionally creating an unsafe environment, increasing the risk of a fire to occur, when an extension box or power strip is used to increase the quantity of items that can be plugged into a wall outlet. A wall outlet that is intended for just two items plugged in can wind up having at least six or more, while using the assistance of extension cords and/or power strips, which could lead to preventable fires.

Occasionally, if one is lucky, they may simply just blow a fuse, or trip a breaker as a result of overloading a wall outlet; however, in some cases, an electrical fire could ultimately be the result. Nonetheless, should such a tragedy strike, one should not try to tackle the cleanup of damage caused by an electrical fire damage themselves (or any type of fire or soot damage).  If you should find yourself dealing with a fire, call the leading experts - your local SERVPRO team, SERVPRO of Upper Darby, PA & SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE, to handle the cleanup for you. 

SERVPRO of Upper Darby, PA & SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE, proudly serves those in need!  We will be on site quickly and our staff will give you the personalized attention you deserve.  We specialize in the cleanup of water damage, fire damage, smoke damage, mold removal, trauma cleanup, vandalism cleanup, carpet cleaning and duct cleaning.  Let us help you make it, “Like it Never Even Happened!”  Visit either of our websites for assistance.  Pennsylvania customers visit –www.SERVPROofupperdarby.com or www.SERVPROofbearnewcastle.com if you’re located in Delaware.  To speak to a qualified team member, call 1-877-352-0700.

BEWARE OF HOME FIRES DURING THE HOLIDAYS

11/25/2015 (Permalink)

As you’re decorating your home for the holidays and hosting large gatherings of friends and family, be extra careful when it comes to fire. Home fire risk peaks during the holiday season. Consider these sobering statistics from the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA):

These statistics are a serious reminder of how the excitement of holiday entertaining can quickly turn into a life-altering fire or a tragedy. While glowing candles and elaborate meals make for a great holiday get-together, take extra care in controlling the dangerous potential for fires.

According to the NFPA, unattended cooking is by far the leading cause of home cooking fires, with frying posing the greatest fire risk and electric ranges posing a higher risk than gas ranges. Range top cooking in general starts most home cooking fires.

Candles are also a top-10 cause of U.S. home fires, according to the NFPA. The most common cause of candle fires is placing the candle too close to something that can burn, like curtains, decorations, or furniture.

A moment’s inattention at the stove—or a guest repositioning a candle on a tabletop—may be all it takes to turn your festivities into a fight to save property and lives. While our business is fire and water damage restoration, and we stand ready to help at a moment’s notice if disaster strikes, we truly hope you’ll enjoy a fire-free and festive holiday season.

SERVPRO of Upper Darby, PA & SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE, proudly serves those in need!  We will be on site quickly and our staff will give you the personalized attention you deserve.  We specialize in the cleanup of water damage, fire damage, smoke damage, mold removal, trauma cleanup, vandalism cleanup, carpet cleaning and duct cleaning.  Let us help you make it, “Like it Never Even Happened!”  Visit either of our websites for assistance.  Pennsylvania customers visit –www.SERVPROofupperdarby.com or www.SERVPROofbearnewcastle.com if you’re located in Delaware.  To speak to a qualified team member, call 1-877-352-0700.

HELPING TO KEEP YOUR HOLIDAY SAFE FROM COOKING FIRES AND SOME TIPS!

11/24/2015 (Permalink)

HELPING TO KEEP YOUR HOLIDAY SAFE FROM COOKING FIRES AND SOME TIPS!

Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don't practice safe cooking habits, your happy holiday could become hazardous very quickly due to fire.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking is the main cause for home fires and injuries.  With Thanksgiving being the peak day for cooking-related fires, review the following safety tips to ensure you can enjoy a safe holiday.

1) Never leave cooking food unattended.  Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If someone must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, they turn off the stove.

2) Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a "kid-free zone" and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.

3) Keep anything flammable such as pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging and towels-away from the stove, oven or any other appliance in the
kitchen that generates heat.

4) Do not wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.

5) Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease build-up.

6) Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen.

7) Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens and small appliances are turned off.

8) Install a smoke alarm near the kitchen, on each level of the home, near sleeping areas and inside and outside bedrooms.

A fire loss can result in complex damages because of the unique behavior of smoke.

Here are some facts you may not know about smoke and how it moves through your home:

1. Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
2. Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to
   go from floor to floor.
3. The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

There are primarily two different types of smoke- wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire.

Before restoration begins, one of the SERVPRO Franchise Professionals from SERVPRO of Upper Darby, PA or SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE 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 regarding the various types of smoke.

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.

Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace Puff Backs)                                                                                              

While "puff backs" can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO of Upper Darby, PA or SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.

Other Types (Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue)

Certain loss situations require special care. Our teams of SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are trained to handle even the toughest losses.

SERVPRO of Upper Darby, PA & SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE, proudly serves those in need!  We will be on site quickly and our staff will give you the personalized attention you deserve.  We specialize in the cleanup of water damage, fire damage, smoke damage, mold removal, trauma cleanup, vandalism cleanup, carpet cleaning and duct cleaning.  Let us help you make it, “Like it Never Even Happened!”  Visit either of our websites for assistance.  Pennsylvania customers visit –www.SERVPROofupperdarby.com or www.SERVPROofbearnewcastle.com if you’re located in Delaware.  To speak to a qualified team member, call 1-877-352-0700.