Fires even the Small are a Big Deal!

9/9/2024 (Permalink)

A Small Fire Can Be A Big Deal

A fire inside your home or business is never good, but what if it is a just a small kitchen fire that was extinguished quickly, or a shorted out electrical outlet that only burned for a few minutes? The damage caused by a small fire can still be a huge problem. Smoke and soot travel quickly, especially through air vents, and sometimes it can be difficult to know what other areas of your home or business have been affected.

      There are actually different types of smoke and soot that must be cleaned using solutions that are specifically designed to target the type of damage you have, and the kind of surface it has settled on. SERVPRO of Columbus has specially trained and certified technicians that know where to look, and perform tests to determine what type of smoke or soot your home and belongings have been affected by. They know exactly what solutions are used on particular surfaces and materials to restore them while preventing further damage that can be caused by using chemicals or cleaners not designed for your specific type of damage.

 So, before you wipe down that antique table that your grandmother gave you with “furniture cleaner”, or spray your curtains with that blue bottle from under the sink, call SERVPRO of Columbus at 706.568.1934 any time, day or night

Fall Fire Safety Tips

9/18/2023 (Permalink)

As the leaves change color and the temperature drops, it’s easy to get lost in the excitement of the fall season. However, it’s important to prioritize fire safety during this time. With decorations going up for Halloween and the use of heating devices on the rise, there are a few crucial fall fire safety tips to keep in mind. Remember, a little extra caution can go a long way in ensuring a happy and healthy fall for everyone.

Fall Fire Safety Tips

• Change Smoke/Carbon Detector Batteries and Test the Alarms. Changing your smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries is a big part of fall fire safety. This ensures the alarms don’t fail when you turn the heat on in your home. Don’t forget to test the smoke alarms after inserting the new batteries. Check that all fire extinguishers in your home are also in working order.
• ThoroughlyCheck and Service Your Heating Units:
  • Have your HVAC system inspected, cleaned, and serviced by a certified HVAC contractor. Check and replace furnace filters with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. 
  • If you use space heaters, keep at least three feet of space around them. Don’t place fabrics on space heaters to dry, as they are flammable and can spark a fire. Always turn the heaters off when going to bed. 
  • Prefer to rely on your fireplace instead? Hire a professional chimney sweep to inspect and clean your chimney before starting the season’s first fire. Keep flammable objects at least three feet away from the fireplace and place a mesh metal screen around it. If children and pets are in your household, ensure they don’t get too close to the fireplace.

Fire Prevention in Your Home: Safety Tips and Best Practices

8/30/2023 (Permalink)

This damage was due to a grease fire that was quickly put out leaving shattered debris scattered throughout the kitchen.

A house fire is one of the most devastating events a family can experience. It can result in loss of property, injury, or even death. However, many house fires are preventable through simple safety measures and awareness. In this blog, we will discuss essential fire prevention tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe in your home.

1. Install Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms are your first line of defense against house fires. Install them in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home. Test them monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year, or as soon as you hear a low-battery chirp. Smoke alarms save lives by providing early warning of a fire.

2. Have a Fire Escape Plan

Create a fire escape plan and practice it regularly with your family. Make sure everyone knows two ways to escape from every room in your home. Designate a meeting place outside, away from the house, where everyone can gather after escaping. This plan can be a lifesaver in the event of a fire.

3. Fire Extinguishers

Keep fire extinguishers in key areas of your home, such as the kitchen and garage. Learn how to use them and ensure they are in good working order. Remember the PASS technique: Pull the pin, Aim the nozzle, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side. If a fire is too large to handle with a fire extinguisher, evacuate immediately and call 911.

4. Kitchen Safety

The kitchen is a common location for house fires due to cooking mishaps. To prevent kitchen fires:

• Never leave cooking unattended, especially when frying, broiling, or grilling.
• Keep flammable items like dish towels and paper towels away from stovetops.
• Turn pot handles inward to prevent accidental spills.
• Keep a fire extinguisher within reach.
• Regularly clean the oven, stovetop, and exhaust fan to prevent grease buildup.

5. Electrical Safety

Electrical issues are another leading cause of house fires. To reduce the risk:

• Replace damaged or frayed cords and avoid overloading outlets.
• Install surge protectors to safeguard electronics.
• Have a qualified electrician inspect your home's wiring if you experience frequent electrical problems.
• Unplug appliances when not in use, especially those with heating elements.

6. Heating Safety

During the colder months, heating equipment can pose fire hazards. Follow these precautions:

• Keep space heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials.
• Inspect and clean chimneys and flues regularly.
• Use screens in front of fireplaces and wood-burning stoves.
• Don't leave heating equipment unattended.

7. Smoking Safety

If you or a family member smokes, be extra cautious:

• Smoke outside and use deep, sturdy ashtrays.
• Ensure cigarette butts and ashes are completely extinguished before disposal.
• Don't smoke in bed or when drowsy.

8. Flammable Materials

Store flammable materials like gasoline, propane, and chemicals in approved containers and away from the house. Keep them in a well-ventilated area and away from ignition sources.

Preventing a house fire starts with awareness and simple safety measures. By following the tips mentioned in this blog, you can significantly reduce the risk of a fire in your home. Remember, fire prevention is a shared responsibility, and it's crucial to educate your family members about fire safety and regularly review your fire escape plan. Taking these precautions can save lives and protect your home from the devastating effects of a fire.

Smoke or Soot

9/29/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Columbus will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 706.568.1934

Fire Extinguisher Clean Up!

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

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

Kitchen Fires - Did you use a Fire Extinguisher to put the fire out? Was it a Commercial Loss? Is  there now Dust everywhere? No Worries... call SERVPRO of Columbus, GA we can handle the clean up for you. 

Helpful Resources

• Water: Class A fires (solid combustibles such as wood, paper and textiles). ...
• AFFF foam: Class A and B (flammable liquids). ...
• Carbon dioxide (CO2): Class B and electrical equipment.
• ABC powder: Class A, B, C (flammable gases) and electrical equipment.

Foam extinguishers are ideal for premises which have multiple fire risks including offices, factories, warehouses and hotels. CO2 fire extinguishers can be identified by a black label reading “CO2”. CO2 fire extinguishers are safe for use on flammable liquid and electrical fires.

SMOKE ODOR REMOVAL

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

How to Remove Smoke Odor

The lingering smells of smoke from cigarettes and cigars are irritating for many. Candles, kitchen stoves, toasters, fireplaces and the dreaded unintentional fires also emit smoke odors that waft through a home, leaving homeowners scratching their heads for effective methods to cleanse the inside air.

Tips for Removing Smoke Odor

Smoke particles cause the unpleasant smell of smoke. When left unchecked, the smoke particles remain in place, continuously unleashing the smoke odors. To effectively remove the smell of smoke, the smoke particles must be dislodged. Simply masking the odors with scented products does little to resolve the underlying odor issue.

When homeowners spend 90 percent of their time indoors, improving the air quality is an important task. An ozone generator is a homeowner’s most effective tool, as it removes the actual smoke particles that cause the smoke odors. Ozone generators can be rented, which leads to hefty expenses.

Here is how to remove smoke odor from your home using a variety of methods:

Vinegar

Vinegar is a common household product with many functional uses. Place bowls of white vinegar throughout the home. The vinegar will absorb odors over the span of several days, leaving the rooms with a fresh scent. Homeowners also have the option of wiping down the walls, floors, and other areas affected by smoke with white vinegar.

Baking Soda

Another product frequently found within the home is baking soda, and homeowners have easy access to the powerful cleansing effects of this natural odor reducer. Similar to the odor absorption powers of white vinegar, baking soda can be placed in bowls around the home. The baking soda will absorb the smoke odors. Homeowners can also sprinkle generous amounts of baking soda along carpets and furniture, leaving the baking soda to sit for a few hours, then vacuuming.

Ventilation

Bust open the doors and windows on a fine summer day. The gusts of clean outside air will gradually thin out the smoky odors. Smoke smells will blow away in the wind, leaving your home with improved air quality.

Charcoal

The charcoal grillers use on their grill is an effective odor absorber. An air purifier that features a charcoal filter is an excellent way to combat smoke odors. Homeowners can also place bowls of charcoal around the home to eliminate smoke smells. The charcoal absorbs smoke odors, in the same vein as vinegar and baking soda.

Smokers who smoke inside the home can put a bowl of charcoal close to the ashtray to instantly absorb the smoke. Prevent recurring smoke odors by not permitting smoking indoors.

Newspapers

When you’re done reading the comics, scrunch up the newspaper into a ball. Leave the newspaper around the home and experience its gradual, odor-eating abilities. Newspapers are excellent odor absorbers, though the effects may take 48 hours to materialize.

Borax

Grab a rag and wash down the walls with Borax. The Borax works to remove the actual smoke particles stuck to the walls or flooring, so it is a far better method than absorption. Wipe down your walls with 2 gallons of water combined with a half cup of Borax and a half teaspoon of dishwashing liquid. Rinse away the solution with clean water. The smoke particles and the resulting odors will be washed down the drain.

Steam Cleaner

Smoke particles that have become lodged into carpets, upholstery and curtains can be effectively eliminated by a powerful steam cleaner. While most homeowners are not likely to have a steam cleaner sitting around the house, one can be inexpensively rented from a local hardware store. Use this gadget to deep clean every fabric surface.

Febreeze

Another odor absorber, Febreeze works because it contains a chemical compound known as cyclodextrin, which grips odors. Spray Febreeze generously around the home to reduce the smells of smoke.

Professional Smoke Odor Removal Services

The most effective way to eliminate smoke odors is to hire a professional smoke damage restoration company. The technicians will zap away the smoke particles with advanced technology, leaving your home, its furnishings and all surfaces free from the overpowering elements of smoke.

ServiceMaster of North Texas is a reputable fire and smoke damage restoration service provider. Our specialists are trained and experienced in resolving odor issues related to smoke, soot and fire. Every household item the smoke particles have settled into, from stainless steel, marble and tile to upholstery and carpeting, will be thoroughly cleansed.

Our skilled technicians are experts in smoke odor mitigation. Advanced technology is utilized as a powerful means of odor elimination. SERVPRO of Columbus, Ga professionals use hydroxyl and ozone deodorization to dislodge all smoke particles and the resulting odors. Our technicians will also pinpoint the source of the smoke odors and remove it immediately.

Smoke odor is a messy matter. When left alone, smoke can permanently damage household furnishings and structural elements of a home. Swift and proper cleaning will ensure the affected property within a home is restored.

SERVPRO of Columbus, reliably serves the Columbus, Ga, communities of homes and businesses. We are available 24 hours a day to take emergency calls.

Fire Damage Cleanup & Repairs

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Ceiling rafters and soot damaged walls.

Fire damage disaster can happen at any moment of the day, wreaking havoc on families and businesses. Common causes of fire damage include appliance malfunctions, faulty electrical work, negligence, and natural disasters, all of which are unpredictable. When a fire damage disaster occurs the number one consideration is the safety and security of you and your loved ones. Once everyone is safe and out of harm’s reach it is important to start the fire damage restoration process as soon as possible to limit your losses and protect your property.

The first 24-48 hours after a fire damage disaster is the most critical time for the restoration process, but we understand that this is also the most emotional and stressful time. 

At SERVPRO of Columbus, S. Muscogee/Chattahoochee County,  we will treat you and your property with respect and dignity. We will help guide you through this difficult time, easing your burden by taking care of your home or business.

Call our office at 706-568-1934 24/7, 365-days a year! 

Smoke and Soot Facts

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot 

is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, “SERVPRO of Columbus & S. Muscogee/Chattahoochee County ”will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Call our office for your next structure cleaning related to fire. 706-568-1934

Fires Related to Candles

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Recently, our surrounding area has been seeing a spike in Fires to homes. An unexpected fire was related to a candle that was left burning during a recent power outage. 

Key Points:

-Keep candles away from loose fabric materials

-Windows

-Keep candles away from walls & cabinets 

-Candles should be placed in the center of a surface and should not be left unattended for long periods of times.  

The Columbus residence was thankfully able to put of the fire. There was structure damage throughout the home and to her personal property.  

SERVPRO of Columbus, was able to assist the owner, with securing the structure, packing & cleaning contents, cleaning the structure and are now in the process of repairs. 

Call our office for your next fire. 706-568-1934

Spider Webs or Smoke Webs

9/29/2021 (Permalink)

Fire strangeness we all know that but did you know that the flames themselves might not be the greatest risk as far as health dangerous and property damage? Fire smoke is the leading cause of fire death exceeding birds by a 3-1 percent ratio. 

Smoke from any type of fire it's compressed of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and sit. Depending on what's burning, many other harmful chemicals also into the air, and are inhaled into your lungs or latch onto walls, furniture, clothing, duck work, and other areas.

Smoke webs can form on all surfaces. Once your property has experienced any form of smoke damage call your local SERVPRO for assistance in cleaning the areas. We will work with you and your insurance company.

Fire Restoration Services

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

Title: Muscogee County Smoke and Soot Cleanup

Category: Fire Damage

Photo Caption: Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Home.

Body:

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Columbus will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 706.568.1934

Smoke Alarms

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.* The National Fire Protection Association

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation.  Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshal to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

SMOKE ALARM SAFETY TIPS:

-Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement according to alarm instructions.  Larger homes may need more smoke alarms.

-Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen and at least 10 feet away from a cooking appliance to prevent false alarms.

-Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.

-Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm “chirps,” the battery is low and should be replaced right away.

-Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

*Tips and statistics provided by the National Fire Protection Association.

Chimney Cleaning

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Are you thinking about having your chimney cleaned prior to the upcoming holidays? 

Fireplaces need to be cleaned on a regular basis for the safety of you and your home. Chimney build up can cause smoke or fire related damages. SERVPRO of Columbus can assist with the services of cleaning or rebuilding your home after these losses take place. However, in order to help prevent these, then below are some steps that you can follow.

If you have never cleaned a chimney or a fireplace before, it might be a good idea to hire a professional for an inspection. 

Check out the following link on helpful tips on how to properly clean your chimney prior to this holiday season. 

https://learn.compactappliance.com/fireplace-cleaning-tips/

What Not to do when you have Soot Damage

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

A fire can leave behind soot, smoke damage and a host of other problems. Ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough professional cleaning. If your home or business suffers a fire, first contact SERVPRO of Columbus/S. Muscogee/Chattahoochee Counties before attempting to clean yourself. It is important NOT to do the following even though you think it might help the situation: 

• Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces. 
• Do not attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture. 
• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TVs, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water. 
• Do not consume any foods or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water as they may be contaminated. 
• If ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fans. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage. 
• Do not send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor 

Call Us Today at 706-568-1934.  

We specialize in fire and water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. We’re dedicated to responding immediately when you need help. A fast response helps lessen the damage, limits secondary damage, and reduces cost. 

Securing Your Property After a Fire

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Protect Your Property From Further Damage

After a fire at your Columbus, GA property, you may feel overwhelmed with getting the insurance straightened out, repairing the property and handling everything else you have to do. Safety measures may be the last thing on your mind.  However, it is important to protect your property from further damage, which can take many forms.

1. Prevention of a Second Fire

If the fire department was called to the scene, the firefighters will make sure the fire is completely out. If you put the fire out yourself, it is up to you to ensure the fire is fully extinguished. Make sure to check for any lingering flames or still-smoldering embers, as these could quickly turn into a full-blown blaze. If an appliance is to blame for the fire, make sure to turn it off. In the case of an electrical fire, be sure to turn off the electricity until an electrician does an inspection and repairs any faulty wiring.

2. Protection From Unwanted Visitors

Unfortunately, some people consider fire-damaged buildings to be ideal targets for burglary. Your security system may have been damaged in the fire, and vandals are likely able to cut through tarps and plywood. Luckily, a security fence can add an additional layer of protection. Not only can a fence help prevent burglaries; it also keeps out curious people who may injure themselves on your property and hold you liable.

3. Protection Against Mother Nature

Make sure to board up or tarp over any holes in the structure, including windows that the fire department may have broken in order to release smoke. Doing so prevents rainwater and wildlife from further harming your building and its contents.

The first step of the fire restoration process is preventing further damage. A certified restoration team can determine if you need tarps, plywood, a security fence or some combination of these and other protective measures to keep your building safe from after-fire dangers.

Fire Restoration Services

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Columbus/S. Musocgee/Chattahoochee County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 706.568.1934

Grease Fires

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Happy Thanksgiving! We here at SERVPRO of Columbus want to remind our customers that this holiday season is not only about celebrating with family around the dinner table but it's also about watching out for Grease Fires or property damages that can occur while preparing for your holiday meal. 

• Rember if you are frying a turkey to keep the fryer away from the home and not under your carport.
• Make sure to have a plan ready in case of an emergency does occur. 
• Place the fryer on a level surface, and avoid moving it once it's in use.
• Leave 2 feet between the tank and the burner when using a propane-powered fryer.
• Skip the stuffing when frying turkey, and avoid water-based marinades.
• Keep children and pets away from the fryer at all times.
• Once finished, carefully remove the pot from the burner, place it on a level surface and cover to let the oil cool overnight before disposing of.

Happy Turkey Day from our SERVPRO family to yours. 

Columbus, Ga Smoke and Soot Cleanup

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Columbus will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 706.568.1934

Holiday Fire Prevention

11/18/2016 (Permalink)

For most, the kitchen is the heart of the home, especially during the holidays. From testing family recipes to decorating cakes and cookies, everyone enjoys being part of the preparations. So keeping fire safety top of mind in the kitchen during this joyous but hectic time is important, especially when there’s a lot of activity and people at home. As you start preparing your holiday schedule and organizing that large feast, remember, by following a few simple safety tips you can enjoy time with your loved ones and keep yourself and your family safer from fire.

Thanksgiving is a peak holiday for cooking fires, and the fire department responds to four times the amount of fires compared to every other day. One of the main contributors to this fire increase is leaving the kitchen while food is still cooking. Therefore, leaving the food unattended and able to cause more damage faster. The second leading factor is cooking equipment, so please be sure to make sure you are using the correct cooking utensils.

Safety tips

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

Thank you to NFPA for safety tips.

SERVPRO of Columbus wants to be sure you are aware on how to prevent these unfortunate situations, but if a fire were to happen we are there for you 24/7 even on holidays. Of course, always making it like it never even happened.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

10/25/2016 (Permalink)

Title: Muscogee County Smoke and Soot Cleanup

Category: Fire Damage

Photo Caption: Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Home.

Body:

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Columbus will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 706.568.1934