Surviving the Blaze: Your Ultimate Guide to Fire Safety in the Big Apple

8/2/2023 (Permalink)

Firefighters battling a blaze amidst the iconic NYC skyline.

New York City, the city that never sleeps, is renowned for its towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and diverse cultures. While living in this vibrant city is an incredible experience, it's also essential to be prepared for any disasters that can strike, including fires. Whether you're residing in a brownstone in Brooklyn, an apartment in Manhattan, or a condo in Queens, being fire-savvy is paramount. 

Understanding Fire Risks in NYC

In the urban jungle of NYC, fire risks are often higher due to the proximity of buildings and the sheer population density. While the FDNY is well-equipped and prompt, it's crucial for you as a resident to know how to prevent fires and react swiftly should one occur.

Fire Safety Tips 

1. Install and Maintain Smoke Alarms: 

Smoke alarms are your first line of defense against fires. Install them in every room and make sure to check the batteries at least twice a year.

2. Be Kitchen Conscious:

Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires. Always stay in the kitchen while cooking, particularly when using high heat. If a grease fire occurs, remember never to use water to extinguish it - cover the pan with a lid instead.

3. Mind Your Appliances: 

Keep your appliances in good working order and unplug them when not in use. Look out for frayed cords or overloaded outlets and circuits.

4. Implement a Fire Escape Plan: 

Every NYC household should have a fire escape plan that every member of the family understands. Practice it regularly so that everyone knows what to do and where to meet outside if a fire occurs.

After the Blaze - Recovery and Restoration

In the unfortunate event of a fire, recovery can feel overwhelming. Fire damage is often extensive, encompassing smoke, soot, and water damage from firefighting efforts. That's where SERVPRO Team Holmes comes in.

Available 24/7, our professionals are highly trained in fire damage cleanup and restoration. We offer a range of services, including soot and smoke removal, deodorization, water removal, and restoration of damaged areas. Our goal is to make the recovery process less stressful for you and return your home to its pre-fire condition as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Remember, Be Prepared and Stay Safe!

While nobody likes to think about the possibility of a fire, preparation is the key to safety. Stay fire-smart, NYC! And if you find yourself facing fire damage, don't hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO Team Holmes. We're here to help you recover and restore your peace of mind. 

Want to learn more about our fire recovery and restoration services or how you can protect your home from fire? Call us today at 212-768-9400. No matter the hour, SERVPRO Team Holmes is here for you, providing expert service to the NYC community when you need it most.

Preventing Fires in Your NYC Apartment

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

Soot on the walls from a fire

How to prevent Apartment Fires-

Fires are frightening for everyone, but living in an apartment the fear can be greater and the risks are more present due to many factors. Living in close proximity to others it is impossible to control what they are doing, but there are steps you can take to make yourself more prepared. Below we have listed a few ways to keep yourself safe living in your NYC apartment. 

Test fire alarms and change fire alarm batteries frequently- press the test button on your fire alarms monthly to ensure they are working properly. If you cannot replace them yourself contact your landlord or super as soon as possible.

Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen- most fires begin in the kitchen, make sure to keep an up to date fire extinguisher rated for grease and kitchen fires. 

Blow out candles- never leave a lit candle unattended, always blow them out before leaving even for a few minutes. 

Keep it clean- make sure you avoid clutter in the way of exits as well as near any heat sources as this can feed a potential fire

Do not overload outlets- make sure you do not have too many things plugged into your outlets. Electrical fires can happen while you are not home and cause serious fires.

Plan how to get out- make an escape plan for you and anyone else living in your apartment, plan ahead to get you and your family out. 

Be aware- finally, if you smell smoke coming from another unit call your landlord or super immediately, and if necessary dial 911

Extension Cord Safety

1/12/2022 (Permalink)

Why choosing the right extension cord is important-

Extension cords are a common and convenient way to bring power to electrical devices when outlets are not nearby. However, when used without proper care and caution, they can become fire hazards and pose serious risks to your safety.

Follow these tips below to help keep your home safe when using extension cords:

Selecting extension cords

• Only buy cords that have been approved by an independent testing laboratory.
• For outdoor projects, use only extension cords marked for outdoor use.
• Read instructions for information about the cord's correct use and the amount of power it draws.
• Select cords that are rated to handle the correct wattage of the devices with which they'll be used. 
• Consider the length you'll need, longer cords can't handle as much current as shorter cords of the same gauge.
• Choose cords with polarized or three-prong plugs.
• For use with larger appliances, choose thick, round, low-gauge extension cords. For smaller appliances and electronics, you can use thin or flat cords.

Using extension cords

• Never remove an extension cord's grounding pin in order to fit it into a two-prong outlet.
• Avoid powering multiple appliances with one cord.
• Never use indoor extension cords outdoors.
• Don't plug more than one cord together.
• Don't run extension cords under a rug or furniture.
• Don't bend or coil cords when they're in use.
• Cover cord receptacles with childproof covers when not in use.
• Never use extension cords that feel hot to the touch.

Caring for extension cords

• Always store cords inside where they can remain dry.
• Unplug extension cords that are not in use.
• Throw away damaged cords immediately.
• Pull the plug, not the cord, when disconnecting from the outlet.
• Remember, extension cords are intended to be temporary wiring solutions. If you find you're using them on a permanent basis, this can create an unnecessary risk in your home.

Keeping Warm and Staying SafeKeeping Warm and Staying Safe

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Want to stay warm, make sure you are staying safe too-

Over half of all home fires related to heating, these resulted from fires that started when heating equipment was placed close to things that are flammable. These are things such as: upholstered furniture, clothing, mattresses or bedding. Space heaters should be placed a minimum of three feet away from anything that can burn, and need to be turned off when people leave the room or go to sleep.

Here are some tips to keep your home safe this winter while staying warm-

• Have a three foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• Hire a qualified professional to install a stationary space heater, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a professional.
• Always use the correct kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a safety screen to stop sparks from flying into the room.
• Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. 
• All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
• Install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms to avoid the risk of poisoning. 
• If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not light the appliance. Leave the home immediately and call your local fire department or gas company.
• Don’t use your oven to heat your home.

Dealing with the Cleanup After a Fire

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

What's next?

Few things are as devastating to any homeowners as a house fire. If your home catches fire, our team at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan works to aid you in the process of rebuilding. However, there are a few things you must do after a fire has occurred that applies to homeowners anywhere in Manhattan, or anywhere else. 

Give Your Insurance Adjuster a Call

You must call your insurance company promptly after. Your agent will help you figure out what happens after the fire has been put out, and they will walk you through the process of finding the proper contractors. Your adjuster should assist you in finding a place to stay in New York while your home is no longer livable, and they can help you figure out the financial situation you are now in. 

Calling in the Restoration Specialists

SERVPRO is a restoration company that helps people with their homes following a fire throughout the US. What makes a restoration company imperative is that you cannot just head back into your home after there has been a fire. There are numerous hazards that must be cleaned, boarded, and a variety of other issues that must be handled first. For example, the water used to put out the fire can cause water damage, a whole other problem to add to the list following a fire. 

Sort Your Property 

Once you have a restoration specialist handle the details inside your home and you’re cleared to enter, it’s time to sort your property out from what can be saved and what you must part with. There may be undamaged items in your home that you can salvage. There are many more that are unsalvageable, and those items will need to be sorted and disposed of. 

Being the victim of a house fire is heartbreaking. It’s also a scary process to deal with, but you are not required to go through this alone. The people you hire at SERVPRO are there to help you with your new needs, we are here to make sure you know what to expect and how to handle it!

Christmas Fires- No Thanks! Some advice on how to stay safe!

12/24/2021 (Permalink)

Play it safe this Christmas season

It was found that between 2015 and 2019, United States fire departments responded to an average 160 home fires that started from Christmas trees per year. And from that these fires caused an average of two deaths, 12 injuries and $10 million in direct property damage annually. You definitely do not want to add to those numbers this year. At SERVPRO we do fire cleanups and restorations frequently, seeing the toll it can have is the reason we want to share some advice to stay safe this winter.

Here are some tips we have below:

• Get a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. 
• Cut 2" from the base of the trunk before placing it down. 
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators or lights. 
• Add water to the tree stand daily so it does not dry out. 
• Use lights that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Don't use anything that gets warm.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to sleep.

Thankgiving Deep Frying Dangers

11/25/2021 (Permalink)

Dangers of Deep Frying
With Thanksgiving right around the corner make sure you are staying safe if you choose to deep fry your bird! Deep frying oil can reach temperatures of over 400 °F. When cooking at this temperature, extreme safety measures must be taken to prevent burning oneself or starting a fire. Like other oils, cooking oil is a highly flammable liquid. To prevent flare-ups and house fires, avoid letting oil contact direct flames. Because of this hazard, it is highly recommended to have a kitchen fire extinguisher available when deep-frying.

Water is a very dangerous liquid when deep frying. When water encounters very hot oil (about 350 °F) water vaporizes instantaneously turning into super-heated steam. It expands quickly, which can cause oil to splatter and risk bodily injury. Do not let water get into the hot fat or use water to cool, or clean the appliance while food is deep-frying.

In the event of a grease fire, never use water to put out the fire. 

Using water can cause flaming oil to splatter and spread. A kitchen fire extinguisher or covering the fryer with a metal lid is the best way to put out a grease fire. Call 911 immediately if a grease fire occurs.

Preparing the Fryer

• If you do not own a fryer, use a deep, heavy skillet to fry. However, avoid using cast iron as it breaks down oil faster than other metals. If you have a deep fryer, read the directions in the owner's manual before using the appliance.
• Purchase and prepare all the ingredients you plan to deep fry.
• Have a grease fire rated extinguisher nearby.
• Before filling the deep fat fryer with oil, make sure the fryer is turned off, away from water sources and wiped dry.

Dealing With Fire and Smoke Damage

7/31/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot

A fire in your home or business is a devastating experience that comes with extensive damage throughout the area. The smoke and soot damage is hard to identify at times and still leaves behind linger smells and irritants. Our experts at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan will survey the site and determine the damage done from the fire and whatever was used to put it out. Using state of the art machines to detect the areas that have been affected. The visible soot may be able to be wiped off at first but the damages normally run deeper than you expect. 

What we do

Our crew will come out and use the latest technology and equipment to clean up the entirety of the affected area. We clean up and restore your place to its original condition  and much more hygienic and clean then it has ever been. Using things like air scrubbers and specialized chemicals we will get to remove the soot that is stuck to walls and items, and clean the smell from these items as well. Nothing is worse than your lingering smoke smells after a disaster. Do not suffer, give us a call today and let us handle smoke and fire related damages so they get done right. 

Fire Restoration in Manhattan

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

Save our Phone Number so you're better prepared in the case of any fire: 212-768-9400

Whether you have experienced them first-hand or not, fires can be extremely destructive. When out of control, they can completely destroy everything in their path, including your prized possessions, clothes, photos, and more. They can leave behind negative effects not only on buildings but your emotions as well. In the New York City area, many homes and businesses have become victims to fire and smoke damage. These events can be catastrophic and can cause you to feel as if there is no bringing your life back to normal. However, with SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan’s 24-emergency service, you can be certain that fire damage restoration is easily within reach. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan’s professionals specialize in Manhattan neighborhoods like Hell's Kitchen, Chelsea, Murray Hill, Kips Bay, Turtle Bay, and Gramercy Park if damages occur from fire, water and smoke.

Do not attempt to clean up from disasters on your own. Our professionals possess the expertise and resources to strategically restore your building or structure to its original condition, if not better. Let a professional service take away your stress and confusion. We empathize with you as we are skilled in this arena. We also possess the proper certification and equipment to effectively and thoroughly conduct a full restoration of the property. We carefully treat your space with attention and professionalism. 

Fires can spread rapidly so it is essential to enlist with using a professional restoration service immediately. We can respond quickly and greatly reduce more damage and costs you may have to pay for continued structural damages. Fire damage can also induce other damages such as water, odor and smoke. A skilled technician can help you with restoring damages associated with:

• Offensive Odors
• Fire
• Smoke
• Water
• Upholstery and Fabrics

These situations can accrue even more damage to your building costing you more time and money over time. You have the ability to remedy these issues by contacting a professional disaster recovery team near you; SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, 212-768-9400. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan helps cleanup and restore spaces to help you get back to “Like it never even happened.” 

Fire Safety: Space Heater Edition

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Don't take a chance with your space heater, New Yorkers! Use these tips to practice fire safety.

In the colder months of the year, New Yorkers look for ways to make chilly areas warm and comfortable. While space heaters can be useful to keep small areas warm, it’s very important to use them with caution. Using a space heater can be safe if you follow these simple recommendations.

Heating

• Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• Supervise children when a fireplace, fire pit, or other space heater is being used. Use a sturdy, metal screen to prevent contact burns, which are even more common than flame burns.
• All heaters need space. Keep things that can burn, such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.
• Use heating equipment that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• Never use your oven for heating.
• Install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment, according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
• Install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms to avoid risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.

Portable electric space heaters

• Turn heaters off when you go to bed or leave the room.
• Use and purchase portable space heaters with an automatic shut off so if they’re tipped over they will shut off.
• Place space heater on solid, flat surface.
• Plug power cords directly into outlets and never into an extension cord.
• Inspect for cracked or damaged, broken plugs or loose connections. Replace before using.

Fuel burning space heaters

• Always use the proper fuel as specified by the manufacturer.
• When refueling, allow the appliance to cool and refuel outside or in a well-ventilated area.
• When using the heater, open a window to ensure proper ventilation.
• In portable kerosene or other liquid-fueled space heaters, always use the proper grade of the proper fuel.
• All new unvented gas-fired space heaters have an oxygen depletion sensor that detects a reduced level of oxygen in the area where the heater is operating and shuts off the heater before a hazardous level of carbon monoxide accumulates. If you have an older heater without this feature, replace it.
• If the pilot light of your gas heater goes out, allow 5 minutes or more for the gas to go away before trying again, do not allow gas to accumulate, and light the match before you turn on the gas to the pilot to avoid risk of flashback.
• If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not attempt to light the appliance. Turn off all the controls and open doors and window. 

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is here to help you recover from any fire.  Our trained technicians will remove the smoke and soot from your home. Call us at 212-768-9400 for any fire restoration needs!

How to Put Out An Electrical Fire

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

An electrical fire can be devastating! Follow these tips to make sure that you and your loved ones stay safe!

Winter in New York means spending more time indoors where it's warm and using more electricity – to heat our homes, power devices that keep us entertained and light up our houses indoors and out during the holidays. 

Electricity is a hidden danger to the residents in your community. Because it is so frequently used, most people tend to underestimate the risk potential and dangers that come with electrical fires. 

In fact, one-third of all home structure fires stem from an electrical source, and because they tend to be difficult to identify, they are usually much more dangerous and destructive than other types of fires. Here at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, we want to share what you should do if an electrical fire starts in your home.

IF AN ELECTRICAL FIRE STARTS

1. Cut off the electricity. If the device that is causing the electrical fire is found, and you can reach the cord and outlet safely, unplug it. 

2. Add sodium bicarbonate. If the fire is small, you may put it out by smothering it with baking soda.

3. Remove the oxygen source. It may also be put out by removing the oxygen source with clothing or a heavy blanket if the fire is small and it is safe to do so.

4. Don’t use water to put it out. Water is a natural conductor of electricity and if you throw water on an electrical fire, you can get shocked or electrocuted. Also, water may enable to fire to spread by conducting electricity throughout the room and potentially igniting flammable materials.

5. Check your fire extinguisher. Electrical fires are a Class C fire, which means that you will need an extinguisher that is appropriate for this type of fire. Most residential fire extinguishers are multi-purpose and labeled ABC, but it is crucial to verify this before using it on an electrical fire. 

Keep These Tips Handy

In an effort to keep you and your loved ones safe, please keep these tips handy for combatting an electrical fire in the event of an emergency Knowing how to respond quickly could be the difference between a small fire and a devastating disaster. For fire restoration, call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan at 212-768-9400.

Boarding Up After A Fire

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

If your home or business has experienced fire damage, you may need to board up the premises for safety precautions.

In New York City, fires occur more heavily in the colder, winter months. It's important for New Yorkers to learn and prepare for what to do in case of a fire in their home or business--- and how to safely board up their home afterwards if needed.

After a fire occurs, buildings likely have windows or doors that are no longer secure. By boarding up, owners make sure that the building is secure.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan Professionals  can help with the board up. Our team of trained technicians will have both the tools and supplies to make your fire damage and your boarding up as easy and seamless as possible.

Assessing Damage

The first step after a commercial or residential fire loss is to have the damage has to be assessed by professionals. Whether there has been a fire in a home or in a business, owners need to take note of any and all damages that occurred. By calling a professional and keeping as much documentation as possible, it allows for your insurance company to cover your claim better and respond effectively.

Depending on the scope of the fire, the damage may be contained in one area or it may have throughout into multiple rooms. In assessing the building, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan technicians are able to note what has been damaged-- as well as structure stability of the building.

Focus on Fire Cleanup

Soot and smoke, damaged items that need to be cleared out or restored. Once a fire has come through your home, the results can be time-consuming and widely varies due to the scope of the fire and the method to which the fire was put out: foam, powder, water, etc. can determine how SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan professionals will proceed in cleaning up.

A major area of concern for New York City Property Managers, Tenants, and Homeowners are getting rid of the smoke scent and soot damage. If not taken care of right away by a restoration company like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, the smoke scent can linger and ruin your quality of life and the value of the property.

Call Us at 212-768-9400

Dealing with fire damage is difficult, which is why it's important to work with professionals who specialize in fire damage restoration. Call our office to schedule or to answer any questions you may have about fires.

How To Prevent Grease Fires

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Grease Fires are common and difficult to put out. Give us a call at 212-768-9400 for any fire restoration needs!

New York City is home to countless restaurants and cafes that deliver delicious meals and bites to New Yorkers everywhere. Unfortunately, a common type of fire known as a Grease Fire can occur and create extensive fire damage that can plague restaurant owners and those cooking at home.

Often beginning in the kitchen, a grease fire can quickly become a big disaster. Notoriously difficult to put out, grease fires can present themselves as a difficult issue.

The first reaction to a fire is to pour water on it, which for grease fires, can actually spread the fire and make it worse.

How do I put out a Grease Fire?

1. Turn off the heat. Make sure to not pick up the pan. Picking up the pan can cause the fire to quickly spread to you or spill onto other surfaces in the kitchen.
2. Put a lid on the pan to cut off oxygen to the fire. Once it has sufficiently cooled down, you will be to move and clean it.
3. If the fire gets out of hand, make sure to call 911 to get assistance right away from the FDNY.
4. NEVER pour water on an active grease fire or fan the fire. Both of these actions will only spread the fire.
5. Do NOT fan the fire with a dry or wet cloth, it can make it worse and spread the fire.
6. If all else fails, use a fire extinguisher to put out the flame.

How to Prevent A Grease Fire

1. Never leave your cooking unattended, always keep an eye on any pots or pans.
2. Make sure that you have a sufficiently sized lid for all of your cooking ware.
3. Heat the oils in your pans slowly, don't put your stove on the highest setting right off the bat.
4. Turn the heat off if you think your pans are getting too hot.

Due to the nature of a grease fire, it is highly recommended that you seek out the help of a professional like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan for fire restoration help. In addition to cleaning up any damage such as burned materials, soot, or grease, a professional can help your kitchen rid itself of the smoke scent.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan has the knowledge and decades of experience to help you quickly and effectively repair damage from a grease fire.

We hope these tips will help you prevent grease fires from occurring and practice fire safety in the kitchen. In case of any emergency, it's important to have the phone number of a fire damage restoration company on hand. Please call us SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan at (212) 768-9400.

Smoke Damage After A Fire

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Dealing with Fire Damage? Leave it to SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan!

A fire in your home can be devastating and lead to an enormous mess of soot, smoke, and debris. In some cases of a minor fire in the home, many people attempt to clean up the damage themselves. Unfortunately, that is never a good idea. Cleaning up smoke and soot damage requires professionals like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan to do the job.

Any home, apartment, or house that has been burned in a fire is typically not safe to enter or spend time in until cleanup occurs. Besides the danger of inhaling the smoke/soot, there can be structural damage. The integrity of walls and floors may have been damaged along with other hazards. That's why it's very important not to enter the home until professionals tell you it is safe to do so.

After the firefighters leave, it's important to quickly call a fire restoration company like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan right away. Ash and smoke, if left untreated, will cause corrosion, discoloration and a lingering powerful and offensive odor. Ash, specifically, will start causing damage and discoloration almost immediately and the damage may be permanent and irreversible. Anything that was made of plastic will begin discoloring within minutes. Metals will easily tarnish and corrode and fiberglass will begin to yellow.

If you get fire damage restoration professionals in soon enough after a house fire, they can mitigate or eliminate the smoke and ash damage from the fire and prevent further damage to your property. Unfortunately, if you don’t get the pros in early, the damage becomes worse and worse and the costs to repair will begin to skyrocket within just a few weeks!

Know Who to Hire

Many companies claim to be fire damage restoration specialists, but they may not actually have the proper training and certification to do the job. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the primary oversight agency for the industry. Companies recognized, registered and certified by the IICRC will have taken extensive coursework to earn their certification.

What a Trained and Certified Fire Damage Restoration Professional Does

A trained and certified fire damage restoration professional will first identify all affected materials and the source of odors, if possible. They will be extremely thorough. They will identify what can be salvaged and cleaned and what cannot be and must be completely replaced. They will then begin the clean-up process by removing built-up ash residue. Once the ash is cleaned, they can better identify the sources of odors, which they will treat with special detergents made to neutralize the odors. Once fire damaged materials are treated, they will be sealed to prevent future odors from emitting into your home.

For fire restoration services, call us at 212-768-9400 for immediate scheduling and service to your property.

Fire Safety: Candle Edition

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Candles are a beautiful, yet potentially dangerous edition to any home. Here's why!

While candles are beautiful and a wonderful edition to any apartment, a lit candle is also an open flame. Candles are a potential fire hazard if not carefully monitored when lit. In fact, an estimated 8,200 home fires are started by candles each year according to the National Fire Protection Association.

A study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests that 85 percent of candle fires could be avoided if consumers followed three basic safety rules:

• Never leave a burning candle unattended.
• Never burn a candle on or near anything that might catch fire.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
• Never use water to extinguish a candle. 
• Never use a candle as a night light or while you may fall asleep.

Those are our candle fire safety tips! Despite taking caution and being careful, mistakes can happen. If you do experience fire damage, give us a call at 212-768-9400.

Fire Safety: Space Heater Edition

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Here are some safety tips for your space heater so you can stay safe and warm this winter!

In the colder months of the year, New Yorkers look for ways to make chilly areas warm and comfortable. While space heaters can be useful to keep small areas warm, it’s very important to use them with caution. Using a space heater can be safe if you follow these simple recommendations.

Heating

• Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• Supervise children when a fireplace, fire pit, or other space heater is being used. Use a sturdy, metal screen to prevent contact burns, which are even more common than flame burns.
• All heaters need space. Keep things that can burn, such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.
• Use heating equipment that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• Never use your oven for heating.
• Install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment, according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
• Install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms to avoid risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.

Portable electric space heaters

• Turn heaters off when you go to bed or leave the room.
• Use and purchase portable space heaters with an automatic shut off so if they’re tipped over they will shut off.
• Place space heater on solid, flat surface.
• Plug power cords directly into outlets and never into an extension cord.
• Inspect for cracked or damaged, broken plugs or loose connections. Replace before using.

Fuel burning space heaters

• Always use the proper fuel as specified by the manufacturer.
• When refueling, allow the appliance to cool and refuel outside or in a well-ventilated area.
• When using the heater, open a window to ensure proper ventilation.
• In portable kerosene or other liquid-fueled space heaters, always use the proper grade of the proper fuel.
• All new unvented gas-fired space heaters have an oxygen depletion sensor that detects a reduced level of oxygen in the area where the heater is operating and shuts off the heater before a hazardous level of carbon monoxide accumulates. If you have an older heater without this feature, replace it.
• If the pilot light of your gas heater goes out, allow 5 minutes or more for the gas to go away before trying again, do not allow gas to accumulate, and light the match before you turn on the gas to the pilot to avoid risk of flashback.
• If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not attempt to light the appliance. Turn off all the controls and open doors and window. 

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is here to help you recover from any fire.  Our trained technicians will remove the smoke and soot from your home. Call us at 212-768-9400 for any fire restoration needs!

Cleaning Up Smoke and Soot After Home Fire

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

Call (212) 768-9400 for any and all fire restoration needs in the NYC area

In the aftermath of a fire comes the cleanup process. A fire in your home or apartment is already traumatizing and mired in fear and frustration. A part of that cleanup process is removing the resulting smoke and soot.

While smoke removal may seem like a straight-forward process, but removing smoke damage from anything can be tricky. Every surface affected by the fire can retain that strong, stale smoke. Difficult to remove and very nauseating for those having to be in the room, leaving headaches or other health issues.

Not to worry, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan has a lot of experience in fire restoration, so we would like to share our methods to cleaning up smoke damage after a home fire.

Cleaning Smoke Damage

After a fire, there can be a lingering odor in your home. This scent cannot be masked with air fresheners or perfumes. Before beginning the fire damage cleanup and restoration process, you can begin with the following:

• Stop the soot and ashes from spreading by shutting off the A/C and opening all doors and windows to allow the fresh air to circulate throughout the home.
• Set up an air purifier. Allow it to run throughout the entire process to protect the air quality in your home.

If you haven’t already reached out to your local fire damage cleanup company, like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, then give us a call at 212-768-9400 and setup an appointment to scope your home and begin restoration.

Signs You're In Good Hands

Choose a certified fire restoration company to ensure your home is taken care of as soon as possible. This company should have well-trained and IICRC-certified techs that have a lot of experience, like SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan.

Call the Smoke Damage Cleanup Experts

Often times, most people find the process to completely eliminate smoke odor after a home fire is just too time consuming and tedious. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is here to help and with our advanced, state of the art equipment, we get it done right the first time.

What's more, our highly skilled techs are sympathetic to the tragedy of a house fire and understand that communicating effectively with you is important. We also work with your insurance company from start to finish, to ensure peace of mind for all parties. Don't wait! Give us a call today at (212) 768-9400!

Electrical fire risk for NYC residential buildings

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

Warning sign of a potential electrical fire

Residential building electrical fires are a real threat in uncertain times. Many residents of NYC have left their apartments and vacated the city due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Some residents are planning to return after the summer months in the fall and others are looking to stay away from high-rise living completely.  Those who have left their apartments in residential buildings have the added stress of worrying their belongings will stay safe without their supervision. 

Nothing can be quite as devastating to your home as fire damage of any kind. The key is prevention and attention to detail when at home or before leaving your home for an extended period of time. In many cases the start of an electrical fire can be prevented with simple checklist and attention to some key warning signs:

Prevention 

• make sure to unplug appliances and turn off all lights 
• check all outlets for burn marks or any form of discoloration around the socket or light fixtures 
• make sure you don’t smell any burning 

Warning Signs 

• If the appliance is plugged in and feels hot it might be a sign, don’t ignore it 
• If you feel any kind of shock when you are plugging something in 
• If a light fixture is flickering 

Severe weather can be just as much of an electrical fire starter as man made electrical hazard fires that are caused by poorly managed extension cords, hair tools, light fixtures, light bulbs with the wattage too high, faulty outlets or old and outdated appliances. Although nearly half of all electrical fires occur between the winter month span of December through March, there is still high risk in the summer months when the temperature is extremely high.

Currently, NYC is experiencing another heat wave with temperatures soaring as high as 97 degrees with a high humidity to boot. High temperatures can easily cause electrical problems as there is a lot more strain on the power grid. Power outages are likely to occur, most commonly known as brown outs. Since every resident in a building is looking to stay cool there is an excessive use of air-conditioners which require a lot of power and causes a strain on the transmission lines.  Overheating can likely occur and cause damage to the circuit components and can cause a fire.  The best defense is an offense. Check your local weather report and stay ahead of the heat wave. If you know one is on the way don’t use certain appliances that day such as dishwashers, ovens, dryers to avoid heating up your apartment. 

However careful you are and as many checklists as you may perform a fire may still break out. We at SERVPRO specialize in fire damage. We are also experts in removing smoke oder and deep-clean soot from carpet and upholstery, we use industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment among other vital cleaning techniques to illuminate any trace of damage. We pride ourselves in clean up and sanitation upon completion of any job that we do.  We understand the kind of trauma it can cause to have fire or water damage to you household, we want to ensure that we restore as much of your property as possible but also leave you feeling at ease knowing that job was done to your satisfaction and your home was brought back as close to normal as it can be. 

Since Covid-19 is still a very prominent threat in our community that we care for so much for, we are now offering Certified: SERVPRO Cleaning. It is a proactive viral pathogen cleaning with approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions and decontamination standards set by the CDC.  We are dedicated to making the transition back to normal or the “new normal” as smooth as possible by mitigating as much risk as possible. We are fast and efficient and whether its an electrical fire in your building or certified: SERVPRO cleaning to make you feel safe to return, we are available 24 hours a day 7 day a week. 

We are committed to serving our community and its residents to the best of our ability. When it comes to fire damage and floods we have 5 decades of experience that shows how effectively and efficiently our operation runs. We are the leading experts in unprecedented disasters. The current pandemic falls under that category and we are at the forefront of ensuring that we are proactive in making NYC residence feel safe to return home. 

Leave it to the Professionals

7/10/2020 (Permalink)

The best decision you can make when your home is exposed to fire is to rely on an expert for the safest cleanup methods. Certain tools and knowledge are required in taking the necessary precautions to get your home back to its original condition post fire. 

Walls may need proper cleaning, prior to repainting. Sometimes they may need to be replaced completely along with the floors. Let’s not forget any additional damage possibly caused by the attempts from firefighters to extinguish the fire, all of which in most cases requires a professional’s skills. Otherwise, it is highly likely one can unknowingly cause secondary damage to their property. SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan strictly adheres to IICRC guidelines and takes all necessary precautions to restore your home or property after a fire. With the restoration methods you need, we can get your property looking "Like it never even happened." 

We are here to help and assist you in the event our mitigation services are needed. We are committed to servicing you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days out of the year. Feel free to reach out to us if and when the need arises at 212-768-9400.

What to do after a Fire:

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

The first and most important step to take after a fire is to make sure that you and your loved ones are safe. Should anyone feel at all ill, it is imperative that you seek medical attention.

The next step is having the Fire Marshall assess whether or not it is safe to be in or near the building in which the fire or smoke damage occurred. Once again, the top priority after a fire is to maintain safety through the entire restoration process. Electrical hazards are common occurrences after a fire and can be extremely dangerous. As well as possible electrical hazards, there are water hazards. The water used to put out the fire creates a prime location for slipping and falling.

As soon as the Fire Marshall declares the building safe then you as well as your highly trained SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan professionals can begin restoration. We maintain the restore versus replace mentality to preserve the items that hold sentimental value, as well as saving you money! The following is a list of what to-do and not-to-do after a fire.

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 the 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 your SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan Professional.
• 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 the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may leave a smoke odor.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan offers the following services after a fire to make your house a home again.

Contents Restoration: We can dry clean, wet clean, spray and wipe, foam clean, abrasive clean, or immerse clean after we pretest your belongings to see what can be restored to pre-fire conditions.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs: We offer an organized and efficient move out to provide you with a quicker remodeling process as well as protecting items from further damage.

Electronic Cleanup: We want to protect you from the possibility of hazardous electronics by offering restoration to remove residue and prevent further damage.

Document / Photograph Drying: We can air dry, dehumidify, freeze-dry, vacuum freeze-dry, or vacuum thermal dry your documents to prevent their destruction. We understand that documents are often irreplaceable and we want to provide you with their swift restoration.

Contents Claim Inventory Service: We can provide you with a Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) which encompasses a pre loss list and value of contents, detailed reports, information to settle claims, assistance with the burden of proof for claims, and most importantly peace of mind.

Safe Disposal Options for Smoke Detectors:

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, the leading professional, for your Restoration needs today! 212-768-9400.

The radioactive material in a smoke detector can become a problem, if the detector is not properly disposed. Smoke detectors placed in the trash or burned will release their radioactive material into the environment. This holds true for any chemical or potentially hazardous material, which is why proper disposal is very important.

The life expectancy of smoke detectors is about 10 years, after this their sensors can begin to lose sensitivity. You can find the manufacturer date on the back of your smoke detector. Be sure to remove the smoke detector from the wall or ceiling to check the date of manufacture. Replace the smoke alarm with a new one if the unit is more than 10 years old or the test alarm does not work.

You can return your old or unneeded smoke detector to the original manufacturer for disposal as hazardous waste. The brand name and/or address can be found on the back of the device or in the user’s manual. After removing the battery, return the entire unit intact with a note indicating that the device is intended for disposal. Detectors should be mailed by surface mail or UPS Ground so they don’t travel by airplane.

How Long is Too Long to Wait to Call SERVPRO...

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Fire got you down, call your local SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan. Leave it to the professionals, call us today at 212-768-9400!

How does SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan determine how to handle smoke damaged items?

Temperature, whether the fire is smoldering or blazing, as well as materials burned, each affect necessary cleanup measures differently. To make matters worse smoke particles can easily penetrate any crack and crevice. When not handled properly, particles will leave a smoke odor behind that lasts months after a fire. Proper ventilation, consistent debris removal, proper cleaning and immediate odor neutralizing efforts are critical to saving as many of your belongings as possible. However, timing is THE most crucial component of successful smoke remediation.  

Are you running out of time?

The IIRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification), a globally recognized leader in all types of remediation, identifies these time windows:

• Within minutes
  Porous materials and synthetics must be immediately addressed to prevent permanent discoloration.
• Within hours to days
  Wooden furniture, flooring, painted walls, and clothing can become permanently stained if not addressed within hours to days of damage, and metal surfaces will at this point begin to rust, pit, and corrode, requiring refinishing or replacement.
• Within weeks
  Prolonged soot exposure will embed itself in the fibers and surfaces, resulting in a longer, more costly restoration with a higher likelihood of replacement.

Don't leave your Christmas tree up too late after Christmas

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan specializes in Fire and Smoke Restoration, don't hesitate to contact us at 212-768-9400.

This family had planned to remove their Christmas tree from the house the day after the fire. Instead, wiring beneath the dried-out tree fueled a fire that spread so quickly, the family couldn't escape.

The NFPA and several fire departments in the New York City area recommend the following safety tips: 

• Make sure string lights have no loose connections, cracked lamps or frayed cords.
• Use only a single extension cord that can reach your home's outlet without being too long and being tangled.
• Use UL-approved lights and cords.
• Make sure lights are off when you go out and before you turn in for the night.
• Make sure all outdoor light connectors are away from metal rain gutters and off the ground.
• Never use candles to light or decorate a tree.
• To lessen the chance of a fire hazard, purchase a freshly cut tree.
• Make sure to keep your tree at least three feet away from any heat source.
• Water the tree every day, and remove it from your home after Christmas or once it becomes dry. 
• Don't burn Christmas tree branches or wrapping paper in your fireplace.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that could burn. 

Christmas trees aren't the only item you'll need to be careful with. Two out of every five home decoration fires are started by candles. The four most common days for candle fires are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, police report. 

Remember: 3 Feet from the Heat

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

More than 25,000 residential fires are caused each year by space heaters. Don't delay call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan now at 212-768-9400

More than half of all home heating fire deaths resulted from fires that began when heating equipment was too close to things that can burn, such as upholstered furniture, clothing, mattresses or bedding. Space heaters should be placed a minimum of three feet away from anything that can burn, and must be turned off when people leave the room or go to sleep.

• Have a three foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
• Install wood burning stoves following manufacturer’s instructions or have a professional do the installation. All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
• Install and maintain CO alarms to avoid the risk of CO poisoning. If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not light the appliance. Leave the home immediately and call your local fire department or gas company.

Never use your oven to heat your home.

Fire Loss Cleanup in Home

12/13/2019 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage done to a local home

House fires can be one of the most traumatic events a person can endure. Your home not only holds your most prized possessions but also is a place where your loved ones reside.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is proud of the work we do to restore homes back to the state they were originally in. Our crew of highly trained technicians will restore your home as thoroughly and rapidly as possible.

Our crew will work hard to make sure your home is returned to a safe and healthy environment. We know that home fires can be extremely stressful for a homeowner.

We promise to try and make the restoration process as stress-free as possible. When disaster strikes call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan and we promise to make it “Like it never even happened.”

How to Deal With an Electrical Fire

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

Faulty wiring and poor maintenance of your electrical systems can result in a dangerous fire. In the case of such an event it is crucial you handle it correctly before and after. If you see the start of a fire you must shut off power from the breaker box, it is important you do not pull out anything plugged in as it could be electrically charged and result in harm to yourself. Do not use water to extinguish an electrical fire, nor a standard fire extinguisher if the power is still connected. A class C fire extinguisher is required for these types of fires, but if the power is cut then a class A extinguisher should be used. Once you have put out the fire completely the results will be damage to some extent and the lasting odor of a fire. SERVPRO is able to handle this clean up and before you know it, the fires damage will disappear. It is important to deal with an issue like this immediately and the longer you wait, the more lasting damage.  

Why you should leave fire cleanup to the professionals

7/11/2019 (Permalink)

When any type of fire occurs in your home, it's probably smartest to rely on experts to instruct you on the safest cleanup methods. After a fire has damaged any part of your home or property, there are certain precautions that one must take in restoring the area. More often then not, certain tools and knowledge is required. 

For many property owners, walls or floors must be entirely replaced, and this requires professional assistance. Because without the proper methods, it is very possible to cause further damage without realizing. You want your property to be restored properly so you can once again live or work properly in the area. 

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is more than willing to come assist you in any situation like this. We operate in the midtown area and will respond to the scene as soon as we can.

how to prevent fire damages

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

How to Prevent Fire DamageFire is a scary thing, especially when it happens in your neighborhood or in your same building, let alone your own home in New York. Knowing that you are affected by it because of an accident or anything that happens in life. In NYC living so close from each other, you can't help, but think about the damages. 

SERVPRO, can help you out with the whole process of fire damage. From what needs to be restored inspecting the damages to your belongings like your personal items. 

In New York, you can feel safe even though it's an overwhelming and devastating feeling about any damage. SERVPRO is there to take care of it for you for whatever happens, from floods, mold, sewage and smoke. All a one stop, to get your life back. We need to keep nyc protected for any emergency. 

SERVPRO are trained specialist, that they know what your going through and know what they are doing. Having a mental state of "restore first" puts your mind at ease that they are serious. Which gives you a peace of mind to go back to your New York lives. 

Tips on being safe until help arrives: 

• Is it safe to be in your home or building?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazard some frequent concern.
• Do activities that are safe to perform.
• Be carefull!!! Wet materials VERY heavy.

What Business Owners Should Do Right After A Fire Has Damaged Their Premises

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

What Business Owners Should Do Right After A Fire Has Damaged Their Premises

An event that every business owner dreads is having a fire occur on their premises. A major fire can take a company out of business until the property is restored. It's for this reason among others that business owners want to get the damage restored as quickly as possible. 
The first thing a business owner should do in the event of a fire is to prevent further damage from occurring. The fire department will help the business owner secure the property which helps prevent the elements from getting in and stops thieves from entering the property. The next step is to contact the business' insurance company so that they can get right to work on the claim including sending out an adjuster to assess the damage. 
The go-to property damage restoration firm in the New York City area is SERVPRO. This locally owned franchise has a team of experts who can fix the fire and smoke damage that has occurred. They can also repair any water damage that was caused by water used to put out the flames. They work directly with insurance company claims adjusters so that the property is restored as quickly as possible. 
SERVPRO of NYC is available 24/7 so that they can swiftly respond to emergency situations. This fast response helps prevent secondary damage from occurring and reduces the cost of repairs. They have the expertise and tools it takes to handle all the damage in the business and restore it to the condition it was in before the fire occurred.

Common Causes of Fire Damage

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

Common Causes of Fire Damage

Fire damage is disastrous for property owners and residents. Dealing with a fire can be a hazard to your health, causing respiratory problems and possible varying degrees of burns to the skin. Learning and understanding fire safety and prevention is vital to the public’s well being. 

People go about their day-to-day activities without thinking about some of the things they take part in that may contribute to causing a fire. In the unfortunate event you may experience a fire, SERVPRO of new york is there to help. They can get you on the path to recovery from any damage that has occurred. 

The number one cause of fires is smoking. Smoking in your house is dangerous due to fabrics and materials it can ignite. Some may fall asleep with a lit cigarette and their couch or chair will start to burn. Someone may toss a cigarette into the trash thinking it is out, when it actually is not, and a fire will start. 

Cooking is another daily activity where fires can start. Being mindful of keeping flammable objects away from your stove can aid in fire prevention. Do not place paper products, such as napkins and paper towels on the stove where they can easily catch fire. Be careful of plastic cooking utensils and your clothing being too close to the fire. Should a fire erupt, information on what and what not to do after a fire can be provided from SERVPRO in nyc to New York residents. 

In today’s society, most homes are filled with electrical appliances and products. It is best to use a surge strip when plugging in cords, but it is important not to overload them. Overloading may cause an electrical fire. Portable heaters should be monitored closely during winter months, as they have been known to cause fires. If New York residents experience the traumatic event of a home fire, SERVPRO in nyc provides emergency service around the clock. 

Sometimes no matter how careful we are, we may not be able to prevent fires. Being more diligent in checking outlets, making sure smoke detectors are working properly and having an emergency plan for our households is a step in the right direction for prevention.

How to approach smoke damage

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

How to approach smoke damage

When fires occur in a home or office, they cause more damage than many people realize. From fire damage to smoke damage to water damage, there is so much most people learn in the hours following a fire that they didn’t know before. This influx of knowledge and information is often overwhelming, and it leaves many property owners unsure of what to do next. SERVPRO works in NYC, Manhattan, and other areas of New York to ensure property owners have help with things like water and smoke damage following a fire. 

No matter where you are in New York, smoke damage is sometimes worse than fire damage. Fires might be put out after being confined to a small area, but the smoke from the fire can carry throughout a property anywhere in NYC. Before your Manhattan townhome or apartment suffers further damage, calling a company such as SERVPRO is a wise decision. 

Smoke damage affects much more than just your lungs if you’re present during a fire. It’s tremendously acidic, which means it begins destroying anything it touches within hours of a fire. Essentially, even the items in your home not damaged by the actual fire can be destroyed quickly when you don’t approach smoke damage efficiently. 

A restoration company such as SERVPRO prioritizes your needs by responding to your call immediately. They work to remove smoke damage, manage water damage, and prepare your home for you to re-enter as quickly as possible. These professionals understand that time is of the essence following a fire, and they work to make sure you get as much of their time as quickly as possible. Don’t allow your home to become further damaged by failing to understand just how much damage can be done following a fire. Call the professionals for help.

What to Do After a Kitchen Fire

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

It has happened to many people. Something goes wrong in the kitchen. This results in a kitchen fire. Do you know what to do after a kitchen fire happens? There's tons of cleaning involved. 

The first thing you are going to want to do is clean the area itself. This includes the walls, the ceilings, as well as the counters and other ares you might find soot. You'll need to open windows to air out some of the smoke smell. A fan can be beneficial for this. 

The pots and pans and other cooking utensils you use will need to be cleaned as well. This is easy enough to do with your typical dish detergent. You will need to be thorough though when cleaning them. 

The furniture in the kitchen will also need to be cleaned. Some things might have to go if they have been damaged too much. Again, just as you have with everything else, you will want to be sure your cleaning is thorough as the soot and smoke might be hard to get rid of. 

If you are having too much of a hard time figuring out how to get everything cleaned, then you are in luck. There are places who specialize in this. SERVPRO is one such place in New York. Call them if you are in the NYC area as they are experts in this industry and have all the useful and powerful tools to get the work done.

Fire Safety in the Big Apple During the Holidays

12/14/2018 (Permalink)

Holiday Home Fire Dangers & Restoration
The holiday season may have many homes and businesses in Manhattan, New York, decked out with holiday lights, candles, and the Christmas tree to bring out the holiday spirit, but this time of year is one where all should exercise additional caution. Many of the beautiful holiday decorations in homes and businesses in Manhattan can become a fire hazard.

The typical NYC home, apartment, and storefront often faces limited space. These tight quarters can easily be cause for a fire when holiday decorations are placed near flammable materials and objects.

According to a report from the National Fire Protection Association, the U.S. fire departments responded to an average 170 home fires per year that started with Christmas trees. So, extra caution is necessary especially around the holidays in NYC. A holiday fire to the home or business can cause damage that will require a property damage restoration firm like SERVPRO in New York to help with restoration and cleaning.

There may be water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, and general cleaning service required to help residents and owners proceed in getting their property habitual again. In addition to water removal, smoke and soot removal, cleaning, repair, and restoration, there's also the need to begin the claim process with insurance. Property damage restoration firms like SERVPRO can help with all of these matters during this difficult time.

Highly trained fire and water damage restoration specialists help to restore the home or business front to pre-fire condition, and they will do so in a quick manner to get customers back to their normal ways of life.

Smoke and Fire Damage Restoration Services

1/23/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damages could be the most devastating incident you can ever experience. Being a stressful time for you, we believe that all you need is a professional service to help you recover to your usual self again. Our restoration company will always be here to meet all your needs as regards any incident related to the fire. We will always empathize with you, hence provide you with services that will give you satisfaction.

Our restoration company in Manhattan has competent staff who are thoroughly trained to meet any of your need. We have the most modern and specialized fire restoration equipment and techniques that will always meet the needs of your home at any time of the year.

Our specialized services are tailored to meet any smoke and fire damages in your home. We, therefore provide various cleaning procedures for the multiple materials burnt.

Our restoration process includes:

• Emergency Contact
• Inspection of the related incident
• Fire Damage Assessment
• Board and Roof tarp services (if any)
• In cases where water damage has been experienced, we provide water removal and drying services
• Cleaning off smoke and soot off all affected surfaces
• Overall cleaning and repair services
• Finally, we give restoration service

Why You Need Us?

• We've always cared for our client's property like our own.
• We ensure convenient services all through the yea; 24/7
• We act quicker to any fire-related incident; to lessen and limit further damages and reduces potential loses as well
• We can deal with any size of fire and smoke incident experienced
• Our company is specialized in fire and water-related damages; hence we assure you the most reliable and quality services
• Our fire and smoke restoration technicians have the required skills and capacity to meet your needs.
• We have odor our control technicians
• Our fabric cleaning technicians provide satisfaction
• Our Restoration technicians are qualified to meet all your concerns

Fire Damage Restoration Process

12/27/2017 (Permalink)

Having fire damage in your residential or commercial property can be upsetting and shocking. When you experience such losses, you get reassurance from getting clear support and guidance in rescuing as much as possible from the fire damage. We are here to help you get your property back to its prior state before the damage. Our crew of technicians is experienced and trained to help you get back your home or commercial property as fast possible. We can fix any imaginable kind of fire damage. Fire damage comes in different forms and causes which include;

• Kitchen grease and stove burners fire
• Electrical fires probably due to overloaded electrical outlets and faulty wiring
• Accidental fire ignitions such as from flammables like propane and gasoline

These are just a few of the many probable causes of fire at your home or business property. If you experience such tragedies in New York City, we are here to help you by;

Identifying the source of the fire

This helps us to come up with the best solution possible for restoration. We evaluate the degree of the loss so that we can determine the best approach to start the restoration.

Assessing the damage

In this process, we evaluate to see if there are further damages like water damages that might have resulted from the firefighting process. We then deal with the water damage if there is any.

Removal of items from the building

We will need to vacate the building to ensure that all parts are touched during the restoration process.

Structural restoration

This involves the cleanup of charred contents, evaluation of floor coverings and carpets that may need removal, inspecting the house for safety, disinfection and treatment of the areas and smoke odor removal.

Returning the items

We help you get the items back to their location assisting you to restore your normal life.

Fire damage in Manhattan is at times an inevitable tragedy, and we are here to see things get easier for you. Contact us for help. We are available 24/7 to offer you help whenever you need us.

Manhattan Fire Damage

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

If you have fire damage in your apartment or business in Manhattan, it's important to act quickly in order to avoid permanent damage.

Call the Professionals

Unfortunately, the difficult process usually requires specialized equipment. If you try to simply vacuum the soot and debris, you can ruin your vacuum without completing the task. Timing is critical in clean-up efforts related to fire and smoke damage. So, it's often best to leave the restoration efforts to the professionals.

While you are dealing with the insurance company and securing temporary housing, rely on the services of a certified New York fire restoration company to salvage as many of your belongings as possible. They have the expertise required to evaluate the damage and restore salvageable belongings versus those that should be replaced or discarded.

Points to Keep in Mind

Here are a few reasons you need a professional company to begin clean-up efforts right away.

• Minutes after the fire department has put out the blaze, acidic soot discolors plastics. Marble and alabaster are often permanently damaged.
• Within hours soot can cause fixtures and counters to turn yellow. Metal tarnishes and furniture and appliances scar or discolor.
• Excess water can cause mold to grow in your walls or on wood and other surfaces. Mold can become a big health concern unless properly cleaned.

Selecting a Restoration Company

Select a Manhattan restoration company that has a reputation for effective fire damage clean-up. Ask for credentials such as licensing and insurance information as well as references from previous clients. The firm you choose should be able to provide before and after photos of completed projects.

In addition, the company's or technician's health and safety certificates should be in order. Ideally, the candidate should possess vast experience in a variety of restoration skills, and be able to provide proof of professional licenses as well as applicable insurance.

Dealing with Smoke Damage Problems

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke damage leaves your property with black marks which can be unpleasing to look at. It destroys the appearance and structure of everything in it. This includes walls, ceiling, furniture and any other item in the affected room. It also leaves the building with an unpleasant odor that is hard to eliminate unless you turn to professionals like us for assistance. We are here to assist any smoke damage victims in New York City by offering friendly yet professional services to deal with the disturbing issue and restore your home or business property to its previous state.

We use our experience and high-tech equipment to make sure that we clean and deodorize the building making it a comfortable place to live in. Smoke, due to its nature, can easily seep through the smallest cracks. It is, therefore, hard for you to notice it and this could lead to substantial damages when the issue gets out of hand.

Our team is qualified and has knowledge about how smoke works. This makes us the best option for you. We offer complete cleanup and odor removal in Manhattan. We do this by following simple yet effective steps as follows;

Removing soot from the household

This is the residue left behind after the smoke damage. It is the action taken after assessing the level of the damage and marking the affected areas.

Determining and getting rid of the source of odor

The smoke smell remains in carpets, upholstered furniture and clothing unless it is eliminated before the cleaning process. We use high-quality additives and chemicals to help break the molecules and get rid of the smell.

Cleaning the room

After deodorizing, it is time to eliminate the smoke spots by doing a thorough cleaning of the walls, carpets and the washable clothes ensuring that they are all left immaculately clean.

If you are having a smoke damage issue in Manhattan, NY, we are the right solution for you as;

• We are experienced
• Have the right equipment
• Certified to do the job
• We offer emergency restoration services

Do not think twice about trusting us to do the job for you and you will not regret your decision.

Convenient Smoke and Soot Damage Restoration

10/9/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot damage leads to black marks that discolor your walls and ceiling. Soot is the remains left by smoke. Eliminate the stink in your home by turning to us for smoke odor and smoke damage removal service. We are among the top smoke restoration companies in New York City and Manhattan, and we provide you with friendly and convenient smoke removal services to restore your home back to its former state.

With the help of our quality equipment and techniques, we efficiently clean and deodorize your building. Smoke has a different nature from the path of fires. Smoke can easily seep through crevices, cracks and other hidden areas and this could damage areas that you cannot think of.

Our experts understand how smoke work and they can offer you a complete smoke odor removal for your property in New York City or Manhattan. It takes you more than just a freshener and filters to get rid of smoke smell after the fire. The best way to do this is to be systematic. Some of the reasons why you should choose us include;

• We are experienced
• We are certified
• We are insured
• We have the right tools and types of equipment for the job

Before starting the smoke restoration process, our experts start by locating the source of the smell and treat it with detergents which are specifically designed to neutralize the smoke odor. We also understand that different types of fire produce different kinds of smoke; for example, a fast burning fire leaves a powder ash while a smoldering fire leaves a sticky residue. Allow our team to do the smoke odor removal task for you and you will love the results.

Soot is also messy, and nobody enjoys its presence at home. Let your licensed and certified team do the residue removal for you. We remove all kinds of soot from ceilings, walls, and any other surfaces.

You do not have to go through the problem of smoke and soot damage alone. Contact us today and book an appointment with us and get started.

Professional smoke damage cleaning in New York

9/11/2017 (Permalink)

Midtown Manhattan Smoke Damage

Smoke causes massive damage to homes and businesses, and most people think they can easily clean the soot by themselves. As easy as it may seem, the opposite is true. You require professionals to clean the house and halt any further damages properly. If left unattended, smoke has been known to continue causing discoloration and damage to surfaces. Smoke as the uncanny ability to settle in the weirdest of places including cracks, ceilings, floors, and corners. Even clothes in a locked closet are not spared from smoke damage. Smoke damage should not be a DIY process, as its going to cost you more in the end. You are encouraged to hire professional cleaners in the event of fire and smoke damages.

Cleaning process

Smoke always leaves a lingering smell, a wicked reminder which most people find nauseating. Your best bet is with well trained and competent cleaning team. They are most likely to have had similar experiences and will know how to go about it. They know how to neutralize smoke to stop it from further creeping up all over the house. In New York, the cleaners will have the equipment to carry out the job efficiently. They first have to assess to determine the extent of the damage and advise the home or business owner on the cleaning procedures.

Smoke damages walls, floors, furniture, clothes, upholstery, and anything that it comes into contact with. Affected space must be cleaned thoroughly with soap and water and should include any cabinets, closets, floors, walls, and ceilings. Properly vacuum the area as well. Use the right detergents to neutralize smoke damage on clothes. Apart from bringing shine to your house or business, professional cleaners also keep you healthy. Smoke is harmful especially if inhaled for an extended period. If left lingering in a house it will cause respiratory problems to the occupants.

What next after fire damage in Manhattan?

9/4/2017 (Permalink)

Midtown Manhattan Fire Damage

Once in a while lady luck goes against us and we are struck by calamities such as fire. Fire can be caused by:

• Human errors such as forgotten candles
• Electrical faults
• Cigarettes
• Home appliances
• Gases and chemicals
• Heating
• Arson

Even with smoke detectors in place, fire can raze down an entire building or parts of the building leaving considerable damage in its trail. Long after the firefighters have left the question on most house owners minds is what next? The damage is both financially and emotionally draining. Loss of personal property and disruption of regular life is frustrating. It may involve moving out to a new home while the damages are repaired and for business, it leads to an immediate loss of income.

Restoration

Once you have met with your insurance provider, you then seek a firm that specializes in restoration. You need a company that has an excellent reputation and will help rebuild your house. Not everybody that promises to bring back your premises' lost glory will deliver. When contracting a restoration company in Manhattan consider the following:

Speed

Restoration should be carried out as quickly as possible. You want to restore normalcy within the shortest time possible. If it's business, it should be up and running within a relatively short period. You don't want to work with someone that will drag the repairs for months. Speed does not mean poor maintenance. It is possible to achieve good quality renovation in a short period using the right staff and equipment.

Professional

Ensure the firm you select has experienced and qualified staff. The staff should also be trustworthy; your belongings should remain safe even as you open your home or business to 'strangers.' They should possess modern and efficient equipment to be used in renovation and cleaning. State of the art equipment ensures a thorough cleaning and does not leave any traces behind. The staff should show empathy to their clients as they are going through a rough time.

Why you need a professional to clean smoke damage in your home or business

6/16/2017 (Permalink)

After a fire, your house is left with lingering smoke that can be harmful to your health and property. The best thing to do in such a situation is to clean smoke immediately because if you ignore it, the smoke will cause massive damage on your property which will require more money to clean than if you had cleaned it soon enough. If the smoke is not cleaned as soon as possible, the items that will be mostly affected by smoke are drapes, carpets, upholstery and walls because they will become permanently discolored. Glass will become extremely etched, and metals will tarnish which will require replacement.

You might think that you can do a good job at cleaning smoke by yourself without any basic knowledge and skills on how to go about it but this can lead to you causing further damage on the items. The best thing to do will be to hire experienced professionals from a reputable company to do the cleaning and restore the home to the state it was in before the fire disaster struck.

One of the advantages of using experts to clean soot is that they have specialized tools which are crucial in eliminating smoke. These are tools such as extractors, rotary scrubbers, and wet cleaning tools. Another advantage is that they have a lot of experience in doing such work; therefore, they will know the right steps to take in cleaning hour home and preventing further damage on your property.

When they come to your home, the first thing they will do is to assess the extent of the damage and determine where the odors are coming from. They will then vacuum the whole house to remove any traces of soot. Soot is dangerous because it can cause breathing complications besides damaging property. After they finish vacuuming, they will cover the carpets and furniture to prevent more dirt from settling on them. They will also identify what can and cannot be replaced and advise you accordingly. Once they find the source of the odor they will use specialized detergents to treat it and eliminate the smell completely.

Indeed, bringing in a professional on site will save you a lot of headaches and ensure that you get rid of the smoke efficiently. If you live in New York City or Manhattan, contact us for reliable smoke removal services at an affordable cost. For more information visit our website at http://www.SERVPROmidtownmanhattan.com/ .

Creating a Fire Safety Exit Plan for your New York City Apartment

4/7/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan wants you to be safe and prepared in case of a fire emergency in your New York City apartment. We have created a fire safety exit plan for you and your family or roommates. Fire safety is imperative in New York City due to the close proximity of everyone’s living space.

1. Take note of your primary and alternative exits. Your primary exit is your primary entrance that leads to the hallway of your building. Your alternative exit will either be an additional stairway from the hallway of your building or an outdoor fire-escape. Please remember to never use an elevator in case of an emergency because the elevator can become compromised.
2. Check your building for their specific fire safety plan. New York City apartments are required by law to provide each apartment with a fire safety plan.
3. Maintain clear primary and alternative exits in case of an emergency. This means not using them for storage. Safety is priority!
4. When exiting your apartment during a fire it is important to remember the following:
   1. A closed door that is emitting heat should not be opened, if you feel any heat you should exit using your alternative exit.
   2. If the door is closed and not emitting heat, you should open it slowly with your shoulder pushed against the door in case flames and/or smoke are on the other side.
   3. If there is smoke along the exit route, you and your family should crawl on the floor with mouths and noses covered to avoid smoke inhalation.
5. Check with your build to see if you live in a non-fireproof or fireproof building.
   • . If you live in a fireproof building and you do not have a safe way of exiting your building, it is suggested to stay inside your apartment with your door closed and seal your door. You can seal your door with sheets, towels, or duct tape. Also if there is not any fire or smoke near your window, crack the window for ventilation.

1. If you live in a non-fireproof building then you must leave the building immediately regardless of the fire being in your apartment or not.

6. Pick an incase of emergency location such as a street corner or a store near your apartment. Share this meeting spot with your family or roommates. Call 911 as soon as you are physically safe.
7. Do not enter your apartment until emergency services as cleared it safe for entry and if there is any damage from fire, water, or smoke call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan 212- 768-9400 for your cleanup and restoration needs.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan is Faster to Any Size Disaster but more importantly wants to help you be prepared for an emergency. This Fire Safety Exit Plan is a simple and quick list to help you prepare in case of an emergency. Your premier cleanup and restoration company wants you to remember that safety is top priority!

Choosing the Right Help for Fire Damage Restoration

2/14/2017 (Permalink)

ou never planned on dealing with the after effects of a fire, but suddenly you are in a situation where you have a mess on your hands and you need help with that. Your New York City home is in need of help, and you have to find someone who will assess the damage and take care of it for you in a professional way. We are here to give you the assistance that you need.

It is important that you find the best help for your home, and you need to look for a company that will give you the fire damage restoration services that are right for you. We offer all of the help that you need.

• 24 Hour Service. We are here for you at all hours of the day and night, so that you can get help with your problem as soon as you need that. If there is an emergency that you need to have handled right away, we are available to step in and take care of it.
• Locally Owned and Operated. You want to know that the company that you turn to is one that you can trust. You are looking for a company that is local to New York City. We are that company.
• Trained and Ready to Work. We have employees working for us who know just what it is that they need to do in order to get your home back in shape after a fire.

Your home is too important to be left in the hands of those who do not know what they are doing. When you are looking for help with fire damage restoration work in New York City, you can rely on the services that we offer.

Midtown Manhattan Fire Damage Restoration

2/14/2017 (Permalink)

In the unfortunate event of a fire, you will need the immediate assistance of knowledgeable, experienced professionals to help restore your New York City property to pre-fire condition. You will likely experience stress and confusion during this devastating time, and the caring, supportive experts at SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan will be able to guide you through this crisis and clean up.

Aside from the obvious fire and smoke damage, you will likely have water damage from the efforts taken to extinguish the fire, leading to mold damage which can spread in as little as 48 hours. Mold can trigger allergy and asthma symptoms, and even cause skin irritation. If left untreated, it can cause permanent damage and leave your home uninhabitable. Consult an expert as soon as possible to avoid compounding the damage from the fire.

While some companies immediately suggest that you replace damaged property, our goal is to help you get back to normal as soon as possible. With a restore vs. replace mentality, we use our specialized equipment and expertise to help minimize the disruption of your tragedy. It is critical that you choose a professional specialist committed to providing you with the following:

• Immediate, compassionate responses in your time of need
• Quality inspection and assessment of damage to your property
• Help to reduce the cost of restoration with minimal interruption of your life
• Trained specialists with extensive experience in fire, water, smoke, and mold damage and remediation

Have Questions? We can help; Call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan today – (212) 768-9400!

Professional Fire Damage Cleanup Service In New York City

6/19/2016 (Permalink)

Image of a Manhattan Smoke Damage

Damage after a fire can be extremely detrimental to properties. Smoke damage, for example, can be particularly hazardous. This type of damage can sometimes be permanent, too. If you fail to address smoke damage in a rapid manner, there could be enduring consequences that aren't exactly pleasant.

Soot & Smoke Damage Cleanup Manhattan

Soot, smoke, intense smells and strong heat can access areas all throughout properties and therefore can be threatening to their structures and foundations. If you want to keep your property safe and intact after a fire, contacting a trained professional for fire damage cleanup service is imperative. People should always be as cautious as possible when dealing with fires. You can never be too safe or too careful about fires and fire damage.

Clean Furniture After a Fire

Furniture needs deep cleaning after fires. If you have upholstery, deep cleaning is an absolute must. Neglecting deep cleaning furniture often results in permanent harm. HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters can also be extremely helpful after fires. These filters can be excellent for people who want to do away with unpleasant smoke odors.

Professional Fire Damage Cleanup

If you need professional fire damage cleanup anywhere in New York City, call SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan. We provide reliable and extensive fire damage services to NYC residents and businesses. 

Recovering from Fire Damage

5/27/2016 (Permalink)

A small spark can result in a major disaster.

While earthquakes and floods are uncommon in New York City residences, fire damage isn't. Even a stray spark can result in fire damage and smoke damage, costing you family members, your home and irreplaceable keepsakes.

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan focuses on restoring New York City residences after a traumatic blaze. Here are some tips to remember if a fire affects you:

* Don't re-enter the site until the fire department clears it; the area may be structurally unsound or susceptible to flare-ups. Contact your family and your insurance company; they'll help with the recovery process.

* Replace any paperwork you believe was lost in the blaze.

* Take thorough recordings of all fire and smoke damage. The insurance company will use them in their evaluation.

In the event of a catastrophic fire, your options may be to either remodel, rebuild or restore. These sorts of issues are where SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan can offer our expertise. Whether it's a simple rebuild or just purging the area of smoke's insidious stench, our technicians know how to make things "Like it never even happened".

Professional Smoke and Fire Restoration Services

1/4/2016 (Permalink)

Don’t let your dreams go up in smoke … practice fire safety.

Where does the restoration start for a building that has been razed by fire? Do you start with the structure, the smoke, the soot or the contents of the premises? These are just a few of the questions to consider when you have gone through a fire calamity. It is important that to avoid more duress, you leave everything to the large loss restoration professionals. Believe me, restoration is harder than re-building everything.

Fire is a very serious calamity. When it happens, it causes economical, emotional, physical and health damages to the victims and their dependents. Some fires are as result of carelessness and they can be prevented while others are beyond our awareness and/or control. Once a fire disaster occurs, there will be the direct and indirect effects that need to be addressed as soon as possible so that life can continue. If you had insured your property against fire, you will be compensated. However, it is obvious that not all items can be compensated. Additionally, there is no compensation for emotional damages resulting from fire and smoke accidents.

The only way to overcome the effects of fire calamities is to get smoke and fire restoration services from an approved service provider. This way, you will be able to determine what can be cleaned and be re-used and what needs to be replaced. Additionally, you are able to determine the effect of the fire and smoke and how much compensation you need to return back to your previous position before the occurrence of the fire. With a service provider doing the restoration for you, you will have enough time to recover emotionally and face reality positively for a quicker recovery.

The effects of fire to your home and property

Fire and smoke have immense destructive effects to your home and property. The magnitude of the destruction is determined by the extent and intensity of the fire and smoke. The first thing that fire does to your home is that it brings it down. It consumes anything that can burn. If the fire is huge, you are going to lose your house or part of it.

Another major destruction caused by fire is loss of property. You can definitely lose property. Additionally, fire is likely to destroy your valuable items such as important documents, electronics, furniture, clothes and other items that can burn.

Fires can also cause physical injuries to your family members and pets. Again, this depends on the magnitude of the fire. Sometimes, fire can cause death of your family members or your lovely pets.

The effect of smoke to your home and property

Whenever there is fire, smoke actually causes the most damage to the home itself and to the contents. One of the major destructive effects of smoke is the never ending odor, that even using the best cleaning products will still linger, never mind that you leave the doors and windows open. That intense smoky odor will linger for a long time. It is worth noting that a fire may be small but smoke can be devastating.

Other than the odor, smoke darkens your house making it unworthy for living. The walls and ceiling are darkened making them look ugly. Your property also gets damaged by the smoke. They become dull and cannot be used if not properly treated. Smoke also causes irritation to you, your family members and your pets. Sometimes it can cause death.

The emotional effects of fire and smoke

After a fire, there will be loss of property but above all, the main reason why you need to restore your home to its condition prior to the fire is that it will help heal the trauma faster. The good thing is that large loss restoration companies will be able to restore it back to its prior condition in a short time.

Everyone is emotionally damaged whenever his or her house is destroyed by fire and smoke. You suffer from a deep stress and worry of losing your house and property again. Truth be told, you will never feel 100% secure again, but don’t worry, a little fear is not bad as it makes you extra cautious.

The expenses associated with losing property are so immense that you sometime require a counselor to help you recover. You are mentally disturbed as you wonder how much you have lost as a result of the fire. Generally, fire and smoke are not good for the mind. It could even disrupt the life of a child. The first place to begin is to hire the restoration professionals to hasten the recovery.

How to clean your house from fire and smoke

When your home is damaged by fire and smoke, you need to have your house cleaned by professionals so that you can go back to your initial position before the fire and smoke incidence. It is worth noting the damages and the dirt/stains and soot caused by fire and smoke can be poisonous. For example, soot is very bad for the respiratory system if it is inhaled. It is always advisable to let experts clean your house. Professionals will always restore your house perfectly after a fire incident.

Cleaning your house from fire and smoke takes place in two stages, the assessment stage and the restoration stage. The first stage entails the evaluation and determination of the extent of the damage. At this stage, experts determine what can be restored and what needs to be replaced. The equipment to be used during the restoration process are also determined. The second stage involves the actual cleaning and restoration of your house to its previous condition before the accident.

The importance of having your house cleaned after a fire incidence

There are several reasons why you should have your house thoroughly cleaned after a fire incidence.

·        Avoid losing more items as you do the cleaning yourself. After a fire incidence, most of the items can be restored if the recovery process is done by professionals. This also lowers the cost of replacing items after a fire incidence, especially if your house was insured.

·        The damage caused by fire may appear small but it could be huge and very dangerous when accessed by professionals.

·        Some of the remains from a fire accident may be a health hazard to you and your family. It is therefore important to have your house cleaned by experts to avoid more harm to you and your family.

Having your house cleaned after a fire incidence, also gives your home a new look and make it a safe and clean place once again.

Additionally, once you have your home cleaned up, you eliminate the chances of other fire related accidents to happen. Generally, by cleaning your home, you contribute towards the emotional recovery after a fire incident.

“Don’t Let Your Thanksgiving Get Wrecked, Here’s How to Protect”

11/18/2015 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving Day is the when the most kitchen fires occur during the year. The following is a list of tips and tricks to help you and your family have

“Stand by Your Pan”

Fires often start when items cooking are left unattended, so always stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, baking or broiling food. If you must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the oven or stove.

“Dress to Impress”

Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking. Loose clothing can easily catch fire if it comes in contact with a gas flame or electric burner.

“Keep the Scene Clean”

Be sure your stove top and oven are free of grease, which can easily catch fire. Additionally, keep all combustible cooking accessories, such as pot holders, oven mitts and wooden utensils, away from the stove top.

“Stay on the Safe Side, Keep the Kids Occupied”

Be sure your stove top and oven are free of grease, which can easily catch fire. Additionally, keep all combustible cooking accessories, such as pot holders, oven mitts and wooden utensils, away from the stove top.

“In the Heat of the Moment”

There’s an endless amount of things to do and people to see on Thanksgiving, use timers to help you remember to check on each dish in the oven or on the stovetop.

“Do It Right, Keep It in Sight”

Store fire extinguishers in plain sight and near an exit - not under the sink, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Because fires can double every five to 10 seconds - and can consume a room in just one minute - call 911 first.

“You’ll Only Make it Hotter If You Use Water”

Do NOT put water on a grease fire. Turn off the source heat and attempt to remove all oxygen from the flame. You can cover with another pot, or baking pan. If you cannot cover the fire, dump lots and lots of baking soda on it.

“If You Want Your Bird Fried, Do It Outside” 

Frying must be done outside, away from any structure, and preferably on a concrete slab or other level, non-slip, non-wooden surface. Hot oil is dangerous; take all precautions.

How to Minimize the Damage Caused by Fire and Smoke

11/12/2015 (Permalink)

The first and most important step to take after a fire is to make sure that you and your loved ones are safe. Should anyone feel at all ill, it is imperative that you receive medical attention.

The next step is having the Fire Marshall in order for them to assess whether or not it is safe to be in or near the building in which the fire or smoke damage occurred. Once again, the top priority after a fire is to maintain safety through the entire restoration process. Electrical hazards are common occurrences after a fire and can be extremely dangerous. As well as possible electrical hazards, there are water hazards. The water used to put out the fire creates a prime location for slipping and falling.

As soon as the Fire Marshall declares the building safe then you as well as your highly trained SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan professionals can begin restoration. We maintain the restore versus replace mentality in order to preserve the items that hold sentimental value, as well as saving you money! The following is a list of to-do’s and to-do-not’s after a fire.

What To Do After A Fire

What NOT To Do After A Fire 

SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan offers the following services after a fire in order to make your house a home again.

Contents Restoration: SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan can dry clean, wet clean, spray and wipe, foam clean, abrasive clean, or immerse clean after we pretest your belongings in order to see what can be restored to pre-fire conditions.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs: SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan offers organized and efficient move out in order to provide you with a quicker remodeling process as well as protecting items from further damage.

Electronic Cleanup: SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan wants to protect you from the possibility of hazardous electronics by offering restoration in order to remove residue and prevent further damage.

Document / Photograph Drying: SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan can air dry, dehumidify, freeze dry, vacuum freeze dry, or vacuum thermal dry your documents in order to prevent their destruction. We understand that documents are often irreplaceable and we want to provide you with their swift restoration.

Contents Claim Inventory Service: SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan can provide you with a Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) which encompasses a pre loss list and value of contents, detailed report, information to settle claims, assistance with burden of proof for claims, and most importantly peace of mind.