Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts
Expert Fire Damage Restoration Services with SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline
1/31/2024 (Permalink)
Our team is here to provide expert and compassionate fire damage restoration services in your home or business 24/7.
A fire in your home or business can cause overwhelming and devastating damages to your property. Even a small cooking fire can result in serious soot and smoke damage throughout your property and cause unwanted odors to linger.
No matter the scope of damages from your fire, our team at SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is ready to immediately begin the cleanup and restoration process 24/7.
Call 24/7 For Immediate Assistance - 800-734-3213
Professional Fire Damage Restoration Services
Board Ups & Roof Tarping
Complete Reconstruction Services
We Directly Bill Your Insurance
With almost two decades of experience serving Connecticut for smoke and fire damage restoration needs, you can trust that SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline has all the training, resources, and expertise to handle any size smoke or fire disaster.
Your dedicated Project Manager will guide you through the entire restoration process, keeping you informed every step along the way. Our team even handles the required documentation for your claim and bills your insurance company directly. Our in-house construction division also seamlessly takes over your restoration project, resulting in a more stress free cleanup & reconstruction process.
Smoke & Fire Restoration Process
While there will be a unique restoration plan created for your property after fire or smoke damage, the general process still remains the same and follows the below steps:
- Emergency Contact
- Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
- Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
- Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
- Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
- Cleaning and Repair
- Restoration
Call 24/7 For Immediate Assistance - 800-734-2313
Furnace Fire Cleanup in Branford, CT
1/12/2023 (Permalink)
After a furnace fire in Branford, CT, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is ready 24/7 to begin cleanup and restoration.
A home’s heating system is vital to keeping warm during the winter months, but the furnace carries with it some serious safety risks if poorly maintained.
When a furnace catches fire, it can cause extensive smoke and soot residue throughout your home that requires specialized tools and solutions to properly clean. Nobody wants to deal with the aftermath of a furnace fire, which is why it’s important to understand why they start.
Below, we’ve outlined the top causes for furnace fires in Branford, CT to help you avoid them in your own home or business.
Need Immediate Assistance? Call Us Today - 800-734-3213
What Causes Furnace Fires in Branford, CT?
1. Clogged Air Filter
The air filter inside your furnace removes unwanted debris, like dust, pollen, and pet dander, from the air entering your home. It also protects internal components against damage from the same substances.
When homeowners forget to change their air filter regularly, it can become clogged with debris. A blocked air filter forces the motor to run for longer periods of time, making it prone to overheating. If a furnace overheats, the blower motor may catch on fire.
2. High Gas Pressure
A furnace needs a precise combination of gas and air to produce the right combustion for safe and efficient heat.
A low gas pressure could cause condensation inside of the heat exchange, which could lead to corrosion. When the gas pressure is too high, however, it can lead to excessive heat production inside your furnace and may even cause flammable soot to build up inside the heat exchanger.
3. Cracked Heat Exchanger
The heat exchanger allows the heat created by your furnace to transfer itself into the air of your home that is forced through ducts and vents. During this process, any toxic exhaust gases produced by combustion are safely held inside the heat exchanger and later vented out of the home through the flue pipe.
Over time, heat exchangers can develop small cracks or holes that may allow toxic gases like carbon monoxide into your home. Because these gases are flammable, even the presence of them in small quantities can significantly increase the chances of a house fire.
4. Flame Rollout
When flammable combustion gases build up inside of the combustion chamber without enough ventilation, a flame rollout can occur.
Without the proper ventilation to provide an adequate amount of oxygen, your furnace will produce flames that can roll out to get to the oxygen outside of the furnace.
Expert Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration in Branford, CT
While a furnace fire in Branford, CT can be overwhelming, you shouldn’t wait to take action. By calling an experienced fire restoration company, your home can be back to normal in no time.
As your local damage restoration service with over 15 years of experience in smoke damage restoration in Branford, CT, you can trust SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline to handle any size fire disaster. Our IICRC Certified team has all of the training, equipment, and resources needed to address every trace of smoke and soot damage with expert and efficient service.
When you need furnace fire cleanup in Branford, CT, our team is ready 24/7 to make your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”
Get 24/7 Furnace Fire Damage Restoration in Branford - 800-734-3213
Furnace Soot Cleanup in Guilford, CT
12/20/2022 (Permalink)
Our professionals use advanced cleaning methods and solutions to provide the most expert soot cleanup in Guilford, CT.
Furnace Puffback in Guilford, CT? We’re Here To Help.
Colder weather often calls for turning on the heat to stay warm, but make sure your furnace is cleaned and working properly.
When a furnace puffback occurs, it can cause severe smoke and soot damage throughout your home or business, affecting walls, floors, furniture, and more.
As your local fire and smoke damage restoration company, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is ready to provide immediate soot removal in Guilford, CT.
Call Our Office For Immediate Assistance - 800-734-3213
Professional Soot Removal in Guilford, CT
Complete Reconstruction Services
Furnace puffbacks in Guilford, CT leave behind a sticky, black soot residue that is difficult to clean without the proper methods and solutions. That’s why you should seek expert assistance to clean and restore your property after a puffback.
As your local soot removal company in Guilford, CT with over 15 years of experience in soot cleanup near you, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is ready to handle any size disaster. Our IICRC Certified specialists have all of the training and resources needed to remove soot and smoke damage from your belongings, as well as any unwanted odors the puffback may have caused.
Our team even simplifies the insurance process by directly communicating with your carrier to submit all required paperwork, photos, estimates, and more.
When you call SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline for expert and efficient furnace soot cleanup in Guilford, CT, we’re ready to make your puffback “Like it never even happened.”
What Not To Do After a Puffback
There are several things you should avoid doing after a furnace puffback to make sure you don’t accidentally make damages worse. Some of these things include cleaning smoke and soot yourself, scrubbing walls, and using your heating system.
But why?
- Improper cleaning of soot and smoke residue will make it worse
- Scrubbing soot or smoke can embed particles further into walls, furniture, or other items
- Homeowners don’t have the proper chemicals or solutions needed to neutralize smoke and soot particles, which means that smoke odors will linger
- Using your heating system before it has been repaired can cause more soot and smoke to circulate around your home
SERVPRO Puffback Cleanup Process
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline creates a unique plan for your soot removal in Guilford, CT, but the general cleanup process stays the same.
Step 1: Inspection and Soot Damage Assessment
A Project Manager carefully inspects your property to determine the scope of the smoke and soot damage. From here, they’ll prepare an effective plan for your soot cleanup in Guilford, CT.
Step 2: Equipment Set-Up
Your local SERVPRO in Guilford, CT uses specialized HEPA filter air scrubbers to remove smoke and soot particles from the air to prevent them from settling onto more surfaces. This step also helps to remove smoke odors.
Step 3: Soot and Smoke Cleaning
Our experts use specialized techniques and solutions to remove smoke and soot residue from walls, floors, ceilings, and any other surfaces affected by your furnace puffback in Guilford, CT.
Step 4: Fabric Restoration
Since puffbacks also damage your belongings, like furniture, clothing, and bedding, our team makes sure your upholstered items are properly cleaned to remove all soot damage.
Step 5: Air Duct Cleaning
Before turning your heating system back on, it’s important to make sure that the air ducts are properly cleaned to prevent more soot and smoke particles from spreading throughout your property. This step also helps to remove all unwanted odors.
Step 6: Restoration
The final step of furnace soot cleanup in Guilford, CT is getting your home or business back to normal. During this step, our in-house construction division performs any repairs, painting, or reconstruction to restore your property to its original condition.
Get 24/7 Soot Cleanup in Guilford, CT - 800-734-3213
Electrical Fire Damage Restoration in Guilford, CT
11/29/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline has all the experience and resources needed to provide the most expert electrical fire cleanup in Guilford, CT.
Get 24/7 Help After Electrical Fires in Guilford, CT!
Did you know that malfunctioning or faulty electrical systems and wiring are one of the leading causes of house fires in the United States?
When your home sustains electrical fire damage in Guilford, CT, the soot and smoke residues can be widespread throughout your property and require specialized cleaning methods to completely address.
If you need professional electrical fire cleanup in Guilford, CT, our team at SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is Here to Help.
Call Our Office For Immediate Service - 800-734-3213
Professional Electrical Fire Cleanup in Guilford, CT
Board Ups & Roof Tarping
Complete Reconstruction Services
House fires can be devastating. That’s why your local SERVPRO in Guilford, CT takes immediate action to begin the cleanup process to get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
As your local fire damage restoration company with over 15 years of experience in electrical fire cleanup near Guilford and the surrounding areas, you can trust SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline to handle any size fire damage. Our IICRC Certified specialists are highly trained with the resources and knowledge needed to carefully address every trace of soot, smoke, and even water damage from your electrical fire in Guilford, CT.
Our team even directly communicates with your insurance company to make the process simple and stress-free. Once you file a claim, we’ll submit all required paperwork, photos, estimates, and more.
When you call SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline for electrical fire damage restoration in Guilford, CT, we work hard to make your electrical fire “Like it never even happened.”
Common Causes of Electrical Fires
- Faulty outlets
- Outdated appliances
- Light fixtures
- Extension cords
- Space heaters
- Outdated wiring
Electrical Fire Damage Repair Process
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline uses a general recovery process to create a unique plan for your electrical fire cleanup in Guilford, CT.
Step 1: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
A Project Manager meets with you on-site to determine the extent of the damage from your electrical fire in Guilford, CT. From here, they develop a comprehensive plan for your fire damage restoration services.
Step 2: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
Firefighting efforts or the heat from the fire can often cause broken windows, holes in the roof or walls, and more. If needed, our team can immediately respond to temporarily board up or tarp any gaps in the structure of your home to protect your property against further damage.
Step 3: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
If the fire department responded to your electrical fire, there will likely be standing water left behind. Our team uses powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly extract the majority of the water. We’ll then use specialized moisture detection equipment to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to draw out any remaining moisture.
Step 4: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline uses various cleaning methods to remove smoke and soot from all of the affected items and surfaces. In cases of severe fire damage, some materials may not be able to be restored and are instead disposed of.
Step 5: Cleaning and Sanitizing
Our professionals clean, repair, and disinfect all of your restorable items and structures affected by electrical fire damage in Guilford, CT. We’ll also remove smoke and other odors and provide deodorization using air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
Step 6: Restoration
The final step of your electrical fire damage restoration in Guilford, CT is getting your home back to its pre-fire condition. Depending on the severity of the damage, this step may involve relatively minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and flooring, or may entail major renovations in various rooms.
Call 24/7 After Electrical Fire Damage in Guilford, CT - 800-734-3213
House Fire Damage Restoration in East Haven, CT
10/4/2022 (Permalink)
Whatever the cause of your house fire in East Haven, CT, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is ready to begin cleanup and restoration 24/7.
House Fire in East Haven, CT? We’re Here To Help.
When a fire takes place in your home, the entire situation can be devastating and overwhelming. Even small, contained fires can cause extensive fire, smoke, and even water damages throughout your property.
After a house fire, it’s important to call a professional to properly address all of the damages. Since smoke damage is harmful and can often be difficult to see, homeowners should seek assistance for complete cleanup.
When you need house fire cleanup services in East Haven, CT, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Need Immediate Assistance? Call Us 24/7 - 800-734-3213
Professional House Fire Cleanup Services in East Haven, CT
Board Ups & Roof Tarping
Complete Reconstruction Services
As your local fire and smoke damage restoration company with over 15 years of experience in fire damage restoration near East Haven and the surrounding areas, you can trust SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline to handle any size house fire.
Our team of IICRC Certified restoration specialists have all the training, equipment, and resources needed to provide expert cleanup and restoration. We’re ready 24/7 to get your home back to its pre-fire condition.
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline understands how stressful a house fire in East Haven, CT can be. That’s why we directly communicate with your insurance company to submit all required documentation on your behalf, making the insurance process simple and straightforward.
When you call our team for house fire damage restoration in East Haven, CT, our goal is to provide expert, efficient, and compassionate service to make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”
Common Causes of House Fires
House Fire Damage Restoration Process
While your local SERVPRO in East Haven, CT creates a unique plan for your fire damage restoration services, the general process remains.
Step 1: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
One of our Project Managers will meet you on-site to determine the extent of the smoke, soot, and water damages from the fire. From here, they will prepare a specialized plan for your house fire damage restoration in East Haven, CT.
Step 2: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
Our team can help tarp or board up any broken windows, holes in your roof, and more. This step helps to protect your property against further damage from outside elements.
Step 3: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
If the fire department responded to your house fire in East Haven, CT, there will likely be standing water in your home. Our restoration team quickly begins removing the majority of the water using powerful pumps and vacuum units. To draw out any remaining traces of moisture, our crew will set commercial grade air movers and dehumidifiers.
Step 4: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline uses specialized equipment and techniques to properly remove smoke and soot residues from all affected surfaces. Depending on the severity of the damage, some materials may not be able to be restored and are instead removed.
Step 5: Cleaning and Sanitizing
Our specialists clean and disinfect restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We’re also trained to use industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment to remove smoke and other odors.
Step 6: Restoration
The final step of your house fire cleanup services in East Haven, CT is restoring your home to its preloss condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and flooring, or could entail major reconstruction of entire rooms in a home or business.
Call 24/7 For House Fire Cleanup in East Haven, CT - 800-734-3213
Electrical Fire Cleanup in North Branford, CT
9/27/2022 (Permalink)
After an electrical fire in North Branford, CT, our team provides 24/7 service to begin cleanup and restoration immediately.
Electrical Fire in North Branford, CT? Get Help Today!
Most homes and businesses are filled with different appliances, light fixtures, and more, which is why electrical fires are one of the most common types of fires.
After electrical fire damage in North Branford, CT, you want to seek assistance from a professional company with the right equipment and solutions needed to properly address the smoke, soot, and water damages.
When you need electrical fire cleanup in North Branford, CT, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Call Us 24/7 For Immediate Assistance - 800-734-3213
Professional Electrical Fire Damage Restoration in North Branford, CT
Board Ups & Roof Tarping
Complete Reconstruction Services
The damages from an electrical fire in North Branford, CT can be overwhelming and make it difficult to know where to start. In order to fully restore your property to its pre-fire condition, you want to seek help from an experienced fire damage restoration company.
With over 15 years of experience in electrical fire cleanup near North Branford and the surrounding areas, you can trust SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline to handle any size disaster with expert service. Our IICRC Certified specialists have the training, equipment, and resources needed to immediately respond to your call to begin cleanup and restoration.
Your local SERVPRO in North Branford, CT understands how stressful a home fire can be, which is why we handle the insurance process for our customers. Once you file a claim, our team will directly communicate with your insurance company to submit all required documentation on your behalf.
When you call SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline for electrical fire damage restoration in North Branford, CT, our goal is to provide expert, efficient, and compassionate service to make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”
Common Causes of Electrical Fire Damage in North Branford, CT
- Faulty outlets
- Outdated appliances
- Light fixtures
- Extension cords
- Space heaters
- Outdated wiring
Electrical Fire Damage Repair Process
While SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline develops a specialized plan for electrical fire cleanup in North Branford, CT, the general recovery process stays the same.
Step 1: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
In order to create an effective plan for your fire damage restoration services, a Project Manager will carefully determine the extent of your electrical fire damage in North Branford, CT.
Step 2: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
If the fire or fire department broke windows or made holes in the roof or walls, our team can provide emergency service to temporarily board up or tarp any damages to the structure of your home. This step is essential in protecting your property against further damage.
Step 3: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
If firefighting efforts left behind flooding or water damage, our team can quickly remove the majority of the water using powerful pumps and extraction units. Our professionals then use air movers and dehumidifiers to draw out any remaining moisture that is harder to access. If water is trapped between drywall or flooring, we may need to remove some building materials to address it.
Step 4: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
Our specialists remove all smoke and soot damage from affected items and surfaces using a variety of specialized cleaning techniques. Depending on the severity of the fire damage and materials affected, some things may not be able to be restored and are instead disposed of.
Step 5: Cleaning and Sanitizing
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline cleans and disinfects all restorable items and structures damaged by your electrical fire in North Branford, CT. We’re also trained to remove smoke and other odors using advanced air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
Step 6: Restoration
The last step of your electrical fire damage restoration in North Branford, CT is getting your home or business back to its pre-fire condition. Our in-house construction division takes over during restoration to complete any needed repairs, like replacing flooring, or major reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
Get 24/7 Cleanup After An Electrical Fire in North Branford, CT - 800-734-3213
House Fire Restoration in Guilford, CT
9/20/2022 (Permalink)
After a house fire, our team of restoration experts are here to handle the entire process and get your home in Guilford back to pre-damage conditions.
We’re Here To Help 24/7 After A House Fire in Guilford, CT
After a fire in your home, the damages can be devastating, and thinking about where to start can be overwhelming. Whether you experienced a small or large fire, there is likely extensive fire, smoke, and water damage throughout your property, requiring professional assistance to fully address.
When you need house fire cleanup services in Guilford, CT, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to take care and guide you through the entire process.
Call Us 24/7 For Immediate Assistance - 800-734-3213
Professional House Fire Damage Restoration in Guilford, CT
Board Ups & Roof Tarping
Complete Reconstruction Services
After a house fire in Guilford, CT, it’s important to seek professional assistance from a restoration company with the right equipment and techniques to properly restore your home to its pre-fire condition.
As your local disaster restoration service with over 15 years of experience in house fire damage restoration near Guilford and the surrounding areas, you can trust SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline to handle any size fire damage. Our IICRC Certified restoration specialists have all of the training, equipment, and resources needed to provide expert, efficient, and compassionate service.
Your local SERVPRO in Guilford, CT understands how overwhelming a house fire can be, which is why our team simplifies the insurance process to make it as stress-free as possible. Once you file a claim, we’ll directly communicate with your insurance company to submit all required documentation on your behalf.
When you call SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline for house fire damage restoration in Guilford, CT, we’re ready to make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”
Common Causes of House Fires
House Fire Damage Restoration Process
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline develops a unique plan for house fire cleanup services in Guilford, CT, but the overall process stays the same.
Step 1: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
A Project Manager inspects all of the smoke, soot, and water damages inside your home to create an effective plan for restoration and cleaning services.
Step 2: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
House fires in Guilford, CT, can often compromise your windows, walls, and roof. If needed, our team can immediately respond to board up or tarp any broken windows, holes in the roof, and more. This emergency response helps to protect your home against further damage.
Step 3: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
Firefighting efforts can often leave behind flooding or water damage, which is why our team quickly begins removing any standing water using powerful pumps and vacuum units. This step helps to prevent water damages from spreading to unaffected areas of your home.
Step 4: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline uses specialized cleaning equipment and techniques to remove all smoke and soot damage from affected surfaces. Depending on the severity of the damage, some materials may not be able to be cleaned and are instead removed.
Step 5: Cleaning and Sanitizing
Our professionals use several cleaning techniques to sanitize and disinfect the restorable items and structures damaged by the fire. We’re also trained to remove smoke and other odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
Step 6: Restoration
The last step of your house fire damage restoration in Guilford, CT is restoring your home to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve relatively minor repairs, like replacing drywall, or may entail major renovations, like the reconstruction of entire rooms or areas.
Get 24/7 House Fire Cleanup Services in Guilford, CT - 800-734-3213
Smoke Damage Restoration in North Branford, CT
7/12/2022 (Permalink)
When your home or business has smoke damage in North Branford, CT, we're ready to provide expert cleaning and restoration services.
Get 24/7 Smoke Restoration in North Branford, CT.
When a fire in your home or business experiences smoke damage, the entire situation can be overwhelming. Seeing the smoke and soot residues, which can cover just about every surface of your property, can make it difficult to know where to start.
If your property sustains smoke damage in North Branford, CT, it’s important to seek immediate assistance to ensure that your home or business is properly restored to its pre-fire condition.
When you need expert smoke damage cleanup in North Branford, CT, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is Here to Help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Call Our Office 24/7 For Immediate Assistance - 800-734-3213
Professional Smoke Damage Cleanup in North Branford, CT
Board Ups & Roof Tarping
Free Estimates
As your local disaster restoration company with over 15 years of experience in smoke damage restoration near North Branford and the surrounding areas, you can trust SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline to handle any size smoke damage.
Our team of IICRC Certified restoration specialists have all of the training and resources needed to respond to your call with expert smoke damage cleaning services in North Branford, CT.
Your local SERVPRO in North Branford, CT also simplifies the insurance process to make it as stress-free as possible. Our team will directly communicate with your insurance company and submit all required documentation on your behalf.
When you call us for your smoke restoration in North Branford, CT, we’re ready to make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”
Common Causes of Smoke Damage in North Branford, CT
Smoke & Fire Damage Restoration Process
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline develops a unique plan for your smoke damage restoration in North Branford, CT, but the overall process remains the same.
Step 1: Inspection and Smoke Damage Assessment
A Project Manager carefully inspects your property to determine the extent of the damages. From here, they develop a complete plan for your smoke damage cleaning services in North Branford, CT.
Step 2: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
After fire or smoke damage, it’s likely that your property may have broken windows, holes in the roof, and more. Our team provides a rapid response to immediately board up or tarp any gaps in the structure of your home to protect it from further damages.
Step 3: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
Because flooding or water damage may be left behind from firefighting efforts, our team quickly begins your smoke restoration in North Branford, CT by removing any standing water to prevent it from spreading to other areas from your home.
Step 4: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline uses specialized cleaning equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot residues from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces during your smoke damage cleanup in North Branford, CT.
Step 5: Cleaning and Sanitizing
Since smoke damage in North Branford, CT also affects your belongings, like furniture, clothing, and personal items, our professionals use a variety of cleaning techniques to sanitize your restorable items. Our team is also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
Step 6: Restoration
The final step of your smoke damage restoration in North Branford, CT is getting your home or business back to its pre-fire condition. This step could involve minor repairs, such as replacing a few drywall panels; or it may involve major repairs, such as the reconstruction of entire areas in a home or business.
Call 24/7 For Smoke Damage Cleaning Service in North Branford, CT - 800-734-3213
Kitchen Fire Damage Cleanup in Guilford, CT
6/17/2022 (Permalink)
When you have a kitchen fire in Guilford, CT, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is ready to provide expert cleanup and restoration services.
Kitchen Fire in Guilford, CT? We're Here To Help 24/7.
When your kitchen experiences a fire, you want to take quick action to remediate the damages. Kitchen fire damage in Guilford, CT requires professional cleaning techniques and equipment. Even small, contained fires leave behind smoke and soot residue that can cover just about every surface of your property.
When you need kitchen fire damage restoration near Guilford and the surrounding areas, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is ready to respond 24 hours a day.
Call Us 24/7 For Immediate Assistance - 800-734-3213
Professional Restoration Services For Kitchen Fire Damage in Guilford, CT
Advanced Cleaning Techniques
Free Estimates
When you're dealing with a kitchen fire in Guilford, CT, you want an experienced fire and smoke damage restoration service that you can trust to properly restore your property.
As your local fire restoration company with over 15 years of experience in kitchen fire damage restoration in Guilford, CT, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is ready to handle any size house fire.
Our restoration team of IICRC Certified specialists have all of the training and resources needed to fully restore your property to its pre-fire damage condition.
Your local SERVPRO in Guilford, CT understands how overwhelming a kitchen fire can be, which is why we make it as simple and stress-free as possible. Our team will directly communicate with your insurance company and submit all required documentation on your behalf.
When you need kitchen fire damage cleanup in Guilford, CT, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is ready to make your disaster "Like it never even happened."
Common Causes of Kitchen Fires
- Leaving cooking food unattended
- Electrical fires
- Leaving flammable objects near a stove or oven
- Wearing loose-fitting clothing around a stove
Kitchen Fire Damage Repair Process
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline will develop a specialized plan for complete restoration after a kitchen fire in Guilford, CT. However, the general process remains the same.
Step 1: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
A Project Manager carefully inspects all areas affected by your kitchen fire damage in Guilford, CT to create a plan for complete cleanup and restoration of your property.
Step 2: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
After a fire, it's likely that there may be damages to the structure of your home, such as broken windows, holes in your roof, and more. Our team can immediately respond to temporarily board up or tarp any gaps in the structure of your property to prevent further damages.
Step 3: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
Firefighting efforts can often leave behind flooding or water damage. Once our team arrives, they quickly begin removing any standing water using powerful pumps and vacuum units. We also use commercial grade drying equipment to address remaining areas of moisture. This step helps to minimize damages and prevent water from spreading to other areas of your home.
Step 4: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
Our restoration professionals use a number of specialized cleaning techniques to remove all smoke and soot residues from affected items and surfaces. Depending on the severity of the fire damage, some materials may not be able to be restored and are instead disposed of.
Step 5: Cleaning and Sanitizing
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline uses a variety of cleaning techniques to sanitize all restorable items and structures damaged by the fire. We also provide deodorization and remove smoke and other odors using advanced air scrubbing and fogging equipment. If mold growth is present from water damage, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline also provides mold remediation services.
Step 6: Restoration
The final step for your kitchen fire in Guilford, CT is restoring your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Our in-house construction division seamlessly takes over to complete any needed repairs or renovations. The restoration step may include relatively minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, or could involve major reconstruction of various areas in a home or business.
Call 24/7 For Help With Kitchen Fire Damage Cleanup in Guilford, CT - 800-734-3213
Electrical Fire Damage Restoration in Branford, CT
6/9/2022 (Permalink)
When you're dealing with an electrical fire in Branford, CT, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is ready to respond immediately.
Electrical Fire in Branford, CT? We're Here To Help 24/7.
An electrical fire in Branford, CT can cause serious damage to your home or business. Regardless of the cause, it's important to seek professional cleaning services to properly remove the smoke and soot residue that can cover almost every surface of your property - Not to mention the unwanted odor from the fire.
When you need emergency service for electrical fire damage in Branford, CT, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is ready to respond to your call 24 hours a day.
Call Our Office 24/7 For Immediate Assistance - 800-734-3213
Professional Electrical Fire Cleanup in Branford, CT
Board Ups & Roof Tarping
Complete Reconstruction Services
When you're dealing with an electrical house fire, you want a professional fire and smoke damage restoration company to fully restore your property to its pre-fire condition.
As your local fire damage restoration service with over 15 years of experience in electrical fire cleanup near Branford and the surrounding areas, you can trust SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline to handle any size fire.
Our team of IICRC Certified restoration specialists have all of the training and resources needed to provide expert and compassionate service for your electrical fire damage restoration in Branford, CT. We're ready to immediately respond, secure your property against further damage, address water damage from firefighting efforts, and start cleanup as soon as possible.
Your local SERVPRO in Branford, CT also works hard to simplify the insurance process for you. Our team will directly communicate with your insurance company and submit all required documentation on your behalf.
When you call SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline for electrical fire cleanup in Branford, CT, we're dedicated to making your disaster "Like it never even happened."
Common Causes of Electrical Fires in Branford, CT
- Faulty outlets
- Outdated appliances
- Light fixtures
- Extension cords
- Space heaters
- Outdated wiring
Electrical Fire Damage Repair Process
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline will create a unique plan for each electrical fire damage in Branford, CT, but the general process remains the same.
Step 1: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
A Project Manager carefully inspects all affected areas of your property to create a plan for complete electrical fire cleanup in Branford, CT.
Step 2: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
After a fire, it's likely that there may be damages to the structure of your home. Our team will immediately respond to temporarily board up or tarp any broken windows, holes in the roof, and more. This step will help maintain security and prevent further damage to your home.
Step 3: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
If flooding or water damage is left behind from firefighting efforts, our team will quickly remove any standing water using powerful pumps and vacuum units. Immediately removing excess water from your property helps to mitigate damages and prevent water from spreading to other areas of your home.
Step 4: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline uses a number of specialized cleaning techniques to remove all smoke and soot damage from affected items and surfaces. Depending on the severity of the fire damage, some materials may not be able to be restored and are instead removed.
Step 5: Cleaning and Sanitizing
Our restoration professionals use various cleaning techniques to sanitize all restorable items and structures damaged by the fire. We also use advanced air scrubbing and fogging equipment to provide deodorization and remove smoke and other odors.
Step 6: Restoration
The final step in electrical fire damage restoration in Branford, CT is restoring your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Our in-house construction division will take over to complete any needed repairs or renovations. The restoration step may be relatively minor, such as replacing drywall, or could involve major reconstruction of various areas in a home or business.
Call 24/7 For Help With Electrical Fire Damage in Branford, CT - 800-734-3213
House Fire Damage Restoration in Branford, CT
5/18/2022 (Permalink)
When a house fire is overwhelming, we're here to provide compassionate service 24/7.
After a House Fire in Branford, CT, We're Ready to Respond 24/7.
A house fire can be devastating, and any size fire can cause serious fire, smoke, soot, and even water damage. Figuring out where to start first can be overwhelming, but SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is Here to Help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
As your local fire damage restoration company, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is trained to provide immediate, expert, and compassionate help when you need house fire cleanup services in Branford, CT.
Call 24/7 For Immediate Assistance - 800-734-3213
Professional House Fire Cleanup Services in Branford, CT
Board Ups & Roof Tarping
Complete Reconstruction Services
With over 15 years of experience in fire damage restoration, you can trust SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline to handle any size house fire damage restoration near Branford or the surrounding areas.
Our team of IICRC Certified restoration specialists have the experience and resources necessary to restore your home to its pre-fire conditions. We're ready 24/7 to immediately respond to your call and take steps to secure your home and begin the cleanup and restoration process.
Your local SERVPRO in Branford, CT understands how stressful a house fire can be, so we want to make the insurance process easy for you. Our team will directly communicate with your insurance company and submit all of the required documentation to make the process as stress-free as possible.
When you need house fire damage restoration in Branford, CT, we're dedicated to making your disaster "Like it never even happened."
Common Causes of House Fires in Branford, CT
House Fire Damage Restoration Process
While SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline creates a unique plan for each house fire in Branford, CT, the general recovery process remains the same.
Step 1: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
A Project Manager carefully inspects all of the areas of your home damaged by the fire, smoke, or soot to create a plan for complete house fire cleanup services in Branford, CT.
Step 2: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
After a fire, it is likely that your home may have broken windows, holes in the roof, and more. Our team is ready to immediately respond to board up or tarp any gaps in the structure of your home to maintain security and prevent further damage from outside elements.
Step 3: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
Flooding or water damage is often left behind from firefighting efforts. When our team arrives, they quickly begin removing any standing water to minimize further water damage and prevent water from spreading to other areas of your home.
Step 4: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
Our team uses specialized cleaning equipment and techniques to remove all smoke and soot damage from the surface of your property. Depending on the severity of the damage, some materials may not be able to be cleaned and are instead removed.
Step 5: Cleaning and Sanitizing
Our restoration professionals use numerous cleaning techniques to sanitize the restorable items and structures damaged by the fire. SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline also uses advanced air scrubbing equipment and fogging devices with deodorizers to remove smoke and other odors.
Step 6: Restoration
Restoration is the final step in restoring your home or business to its pre-fire condition. This step may include minor repairs, such as drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may involve major repairs such as the reconstruction of areas or rooms in a home or business.
Call 24/7 For House Fire Damage Restoration in Branford, CT - 800-734-3213
Smoke Damage Restoration in East Haven, CT
2/1/2022 (Permalink)
After a fire, smoke damage in East Haven will require professional cleaning services to properly restore to pre-damage conditions.
Smoke Damage in East Haven, CT? Get Help Today.
After a fire, smoke and soot damage can affect every surface of your home or business. Even small fires will cause significant damages to your property.
Whatever size your fire, professional smoke restoration in East Haven, CT is required to properly clean and restore your home.
When you need immediate assistance with smoke damage restoration in East Haven, CT, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is Here to Help 24/7.
Call Our Office 24/7 For Immediate Assistance - 800-734-3213
Smoke Damage Cleaning Services in East Haven, CT
Advanced Cleaning Techniques
Free Estimates
With over 15 years of experience with soot and smoke damage cleanup in East Haven, CT, you can trust that SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is your local cleaning expert after a fire.
Our team of IICRC Certified cleaning specialists have all the training and resources to quickly restore your home or business to pre-fire conditions.
Your local SERVPRO in East Haven also simplifies the insurance process for you. Our team will submit all required paperwork, documentation, and more directly to your insurance company for you.
Our goal. is to provide expert, efficient, and compassionate service when your need smoke and soot cleanup in East Haven, CT. When we've completed the restoration process, your damage will be "Like it never even happened."
Common Smoke Damage Causes
Smoke Damage Restoration Process
Step 1: Emergency Contact
The fire and smoke damage restoration process begins when you call us. Our consultant will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand your smoke damage in East Haven, CT, determining the equipment and resources needed.
Step 2: Inspection and Smoke Damage Assessment
A Project Manager carefully inspects and tests. adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action for proper smoke restoration in East Haven, CT.
Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can provide emergency services to board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.
Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. For small fires, water damage may not be present.
Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
Using specialized cleaning products, equipment, and techniques, our team provides meticulous smoke damage cleanup in East Haven, CT. Here, we will remove smoke and soot residues from all surfaces of your home or business.
Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing
Any restorable items will be cleaned and sanitized. We’ll use a variety of specialized cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. Our professionals will also perform smoke odor removal in East Haven, CT using advanced air scrubbing equipment and fogging devices with deodorizers.
Step 7: Restoration
Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
24/7 Smoke Damage Restoration in East Haven, CT - (203) 344-7654
Smoke Damage Restoration in Branford, CT
1/4/2022 (Permalink)
After a fire, smoke damage in Branford, CT can affect your entire home or business and require professional cleaning services.
Smoke Damage in Branford, CT? Get Help Today.
After a fire in your home or business, smoke and soot damage can be overwhelming. Even small fires will cause significant soot and smoke damage to walls, ceilings, furniture, and more.
Whatever size your fire, professional smoke damage cleaning services in Branford, CT are required. This is because soot and smoke damage require specialized cleaning methods and solutions to be completely restored.
When you need immediate assistance with smoke damage restoration in Branford, CT, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is Here to Help 24/7.
Call Our Office 24/7 For Immediate Assistance - 800-734-3213
Expert Services For Smoke Restoration in Branford, CT
Advanced Cleaning Techniques
Free Estimates
With over 15 years of experience in fire and smoke damage restoration services, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is your local expert when it comes to fire and smoke damage cleanup in Branford, CT.
Our team of IICRC Certified cleaning and restoration specialists have all the training and resources required to quickly restore your property to preloss conditions.
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline also handles the insurance process for you, submitting all paperwork, documentation, and more directly to your insurance company. If you need help filing an insurance claim, our Project Managers can assist you while on site.
Our goal is to provide expert, efficient, and compassionate services when you need smoke restoration in Branford, CT. When our team completes cleaning, your smoke damage in Branford, CT is "Like it never even happened."
Common Smoke Damage Scenarios
Smoke Damage Restoration Process
Step 1: Emergency Contact
The smoke and soot restoration process begins when you call us. Our consultant will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand your smoke damage in Branford, CT, determining the equipment and resources needed.
Step 2: Inspection and Smoke Damage Assessment
We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action for smoke and soot cleanup in Branford, CT.
Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.
Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.
Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
Your property’s ceiling, walls, floors, and other surfaces will likely have smoke and soot residue. We’ll use specialized cleaning products, equipment, and techniques to provide expert smoke damage cleanup in Branford, CT.
Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing
Any restorable items will be cleaned and sanitized. We’ll use a variety of specialized cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. Our professionals will also perform smoke odor removal in Branford, CT using advanced air scrubbing equipment and fogging devices with deodorizers.
Step 7: Restoration
Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
24/7 Smoke Damage Restoration in Branford, CT - 800-734-3213
Soot & Smoke Damage Restoration in Northford, CT
12/6/2021 (Permalink)
After a fire in your home or business in Northford, our team is ready to begin the cleanup process 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
After a fire in your Northford property, the damage from smoke and soot can be overwhelming. Even small fires will cause significant smoke and soot damage to walls, ceilings, furniture, clothing, and more.
Because removing smoke and soot residues after a fire requires specialized cleaning methods and solutions, you need the help of a professional restoration service for cleanup.
When you need immediate assistance with soot and smoke restoration in Northford, CT - SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is Here to Help 24/7.
Call Our Office 24/7 For Immediate Assistance - 800-734-3213
Professional Soot & Smoke Damage Cleaning Services in Northford, CT
Advanced Cleaning Techniques
Smoke Odor Removal
Free Estimates
With over 15 years of experience in smoke and soot cleanup in Northford, CT, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is your top expert when disaster strikes.
Our team of IICRC Certified restoration specialists have all the training, experience, and resources required to fully clean and restore your property to pre-fire conditions.
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline also handles the entire insurance process for you, submitting all paperwork, documentation, and more direct to your insurance carrier. If you need help filing a claim, a Project Manager can assist you while on site.
Our goal is to provide expert, efficient, and compassionate services when you need soot and smoke damage cleanup in Northford, CT. When our team is finished, your smoke and soot damage is "Like it never even happened."
Common Smoke Damage Scenarios
Smoke Damage Restoration Process
Step 1: Emergency Contact
The smoke and soot restoration process begins when you call us. Our consultant will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand your smoke damage in Northford, CT, determining the equipment and resources needed.
Step 2: Inspection and Smoke Damage Assessment
We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.
Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.
Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.
Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
Your property’s ceiling, walls, floors, and other surfaces will likely have smoke and soot residue. We’ll use specialized cleaning products, equipment, and techniques to provide expert smoke restoration in Northford, CT.
Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing
Any restorable items will be cleaned and sanitized. We’ll use a variety of specialized cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. Our professionals will also remove smoke and other odors using advanced air scrubbing equipment and fogging devices with deodorizers.
Step 7: Restoration
Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
Smoke & Soot Damage: FAQ
Can I clean smoke and soot myself?
It is never advised for homeowners to clean soot or smoke damage in Northford, CT by themselves. This is because smoke and soot residues require specialized cleaning solutions and techniques to completely and properly remove all particles from upholstery and building materials.
When you improperly clean smoke and soot damage, it makes it harder for professional fire and smoke damage restoration specialists to handle.
How do you get rid of smoke odors?
Using specialized cleaning solutions and equipment, our team is able to remove smoke odors from your home or business after a fire. This includes using HEPA filters, ozone machines, and the proper cleaning solutions as needed.
How long does smoke damage cleanup in Northford, CT take?
This depends on the extent of your smoke and soot damage in Northford, CT. The more damage you have, the longer the process is likely to take. The cleaning process can take anywhere from 3 days to a few weeks - However, your Project Manager will inform you of your specific timeline.
Call 24 Hours A Day For Immediate Smoke Damage Restoration in Northford, CT - 800-734-3213
Smoke Damage Restoration in Guilford, CT
11/30/2021 (Permalink)
After a fire, smoke and soot damage can cover your entire property and require professional smoke damage cleaning services in Guilford, CT.
Smoke Damage in Guilford, CT? Get Help Today!
After a fire in your home, the damage from smoke and soot can be overwhelming. Even the smallest fires can cause significant smoke and soot damage to walls, ceilings, furniture, clothing, and more.
Because removing smoke and soot after a fire requires specialized cleaning methods and solutions, you need to call a professional restoration service to handle the cleanup.
When you need immediate assistance with smoke restoration in Guilford, CT - SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is Here to Help 24/7.
Call Our Office 24/7 For Immediate Assistance - 800-734-3213
Smoke Damage Cleaning Services in Guilford, CT
Advanced Cleaning Techniques
Free Estimates
With over 15 years of experience in smoke and fire damage restoration services, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is your top expert when it comes to fire and smoke damage cleanup in Guilford, CT.
Our team of IICRC Certified restoration specialists have all the training, experience, and resources needed to fully clean and restore your home or business to pre-damage conditions.
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline will also handle the entire insurance process for you, submitting all paperwork, documentation, and more directly to your insurance company. If you need help filing your claim, a Project Manager can assist you while on site.
Our goal is to provide expert, efficient, and compassionate services when you need smoke damage restoration in Guilford, CT. When our team is done, your smoke and soot damage is "Like it never even happened."
Common Smoke Damage Scenarios
Smoke Damage Restoration Process
Step 1: Emergency Contact
The smoke and soot restoration process begins when you call us. Our consultant will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand your smoke damage in Guilford, CT, determining the equipment and resources needed.
Step 2: Inspection and Smoke Damage Assessment
We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.
Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.
Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.
Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
Your property’s ceiling, walls, floors, and other surfaces will likely have smoke and soot residue. We’ll use specialized cleaning products, equipment, and techniques to provide expert smoke restoration in Guilford, CT.
Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing
Any restorable items will be cleaned and sanitized. We’ll use a variety of specialized cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. Our professionals will also remove smoke and other odors using advanced air scrubbing equipment and fogging devices with deodorizers.
Step 7: Restoration
Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
Smoke Damage: FAQ
Can I clean smoke and soot myself?
No, you should not. Smoke and soot residues require specialized cleaning solutions and techniques to completely remove all particles from upholstery and building materials. When you improperly clean smoke and soot damage, you can make the issue worse and harder for professionals to completely clean.
How do you get rid of smoke odors?
Using specialized cleaning solutions and equipment, our team is able to remove smoke odors from your home or business after a fire. This includes using HEPA filters, ozone machines, and the proper cleaning solutions as needed.
How long does smoke damage cleanup in Guilford, CT take?
This depends on the extent of your smoke and soot damage in Guilford, CT. The more damage you have, the longer the process is likely to take. The cleaning process can take anywhere from 3 days to a few weeks - However, your Project Manager will inform you of your specific timeline.
24/7 Smoke Damage Restoration in Guilford, CT - 800-734-3213
Professional Puffback Cleaning in North Branford, CT
11/2/2021 (Permalink)
Don't start puffback cleanup in North Branford by yourself - this can actually make the issue worse and harder for the professionals to clean!
When your home experiences a furnace puffback in North Branford, CT, the smoke and soot damage can be extensive.
Soot and smoke damage can affect walls, floors, carpeting, upholstery, furniture, and more. There may even be a lingering smoke odor from your furnace malfunctioning.
As your local smoke and fire damage restoration company, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline can provide professional puffback cleanup services in North Branford, CT.
For Immediate Assistance, Call Our Office 24/7 - 800-734-3213
Local Puffback Cleanup in North Branford, CT
We Work With All Insurance Companies
We Handle The Insurance Process
Free Estimates
With over 15 years of experience with puffback cleaning in North Branford, CT and the surrounding areas, you can trust SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline to return your home to pre-damage conditions.
Our IICRC Certified fire restoration specialists have all the training, experience, and equipment needed to provide expert puffback cleanup services in North Branford, CT.
Furnace puff backs actually require the same cleaning and restoration methods as a house fire, one of the top specialties for SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline.
Our team will work directly with your insurance company to submit all needed estimates, paperwork, photographs, and more. This is all in an effort to make the process easier for you.
Our goal is to quickly restore your home or business back to pre-damage conditions after a furnace puffback. When you use SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline for puffback cleanup in North Branford, CT, our team will make the damage "Like it never even happened."
What To Not Do After A Furnace Puffback in North Branford
Rather than explain what you should do after a puffback in your home, we like to focus on what not to do to prevent further damages or make the issue worse.
You should be sure to not do the following things after a furnace puffback:
- Do not use your heating system until it has been repaired by a professional
- If you have a forced air heating system, don't use it until duct cleaning has been performed
- Do not clean smoke or soot off of walls yourself as it can embed particles further into materials
- Do not spray affected areas with any cleaning solutions as they can make the issue worse
Puffback Cleanup Services in North Branford, CT
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline can handle all soot and smoke damage cleanup after a furnace puff back in your North Branford home.
When our puffback cleanup team arrives on site, they will immediately begin the following services:
- Isolation of affected areas to prevent the further spread of soot particles
- Installation of air scrubbers to remove all soot and smoke particles from the air and aid in deodorization
- Soot cleaning of walls, ceilings, and floors using dry chemical sponges and SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline's specialized cleaning solutions
- Odor removal
- Duct cleaning to remove all smoke and soot residues from the heating system
- Content cleaning and restoration services
- Painting & restoration by our construction division (As needed)
Puffback Cleanup in North Branford, CT - 800-734-3213
Puffback Cleanup Services in Northford, CT
10/26/2021 (Permalink)
When you need puffback cleaning in Northford, our team works hard to restore every inch of your home to pre-damage conditions.
A furnace puffback in Northford, CT can cause severe smoke and soot damage throughout your home.
Walls, floors, upholstery, furniture, and more can be affected by the sooty black substance produced by your malfunctioning furnace.
While you may want to start the cleaning process right away by yourself, this isn't recommended. Furnace puffback cleanup in Northford, CT should always be performed by a fire and smoke damage restoration professional. This is because improper cleaning will make the issue worse and harder to completely clean.
When you need professional puffback cleaning in Northford, CT, the fire damage restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline are Here to Help.
For Immediate Assistance, Call Our Office 24/7 - 800-734-3213
Professional Puffback Cleanup in Northford, CT
We Work With All Insurance Companies
We Handle The Insurance Process
Free Estimates
You can trust SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline to restore your property to pre-damage conditions after a furnace puffback in your Northford, CT home.
With over 15 years of experience, our IICRC Certified restoration specialists have all the training and resources needed to provide expert smoke and soot cleaning services.
In fact, furnace puffback cleanup services in Northford, CT are very similar to cleaning up after a fire, which is a major area of expertise for our team here at SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline.
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline will work directly with your insurance company to have your claim approved and processed. Our team even takes our own photos, can inventory affected items, and directly communicate with your insurance adjuster to resolve any issues or concerns.
Our goal is to quickly restore your home or business back to pre-damage conditions after a puffback. When you use SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline for puffback cleaning in Northford, CT, our team will make the damage "Like it never even happened."
What To Not Do After A Puffback in Northford
Rather than explain what you should do after a puffback in your home, we like to focus on what not to do to prevent further damages or make the issue worse.
You should be sure to not do the following things after a furnace puffback:
- Do not use your heating system until it has been repaired by a professional
- If you have a forced air heating system, don't use it until duct cleaning has been performed
- Do not clean smoke or soot off of walls yourself as it can embed particles further into materials
- Do not spray affected areas with any cleaning solutions as they can make the issue worse
Puffback Cleanup Services in Northford, CT
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline can handle all soot and smoke damage cleanup after a furnace puff back in your Northford home. When our puffback cleanup team arrives on site, they will immediately begin the following services:
- Isolation of affected areas to prevent the further spread of soot particles
- Installation of air scrubbers to remove all soot and smoke particles from the air and aid in deodorization
- Soot cleaning of walls, ceilings, and floors using dry chemical sponges and SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline's specialized cleaning solutions
- Odor removal
- Duct cleaning to remove all smoke and soot residues from the heating system
- Content cleaning and restoration services
- Painting & restoration by our construction division (As needed)
Puffback Cleanup in Northford, CT - 800-734-3213
Puffback Cleanup & Restoration in Guilford, CT
1/20/2021 (Permalink)
When smoke and soot come out of your heating vents in Guilford, you'll need furnace puffback cleanup services from SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline.
When fuel builds up in the combustion chamber of your furnace and causes a misfire that sends soot and smoke throughout your home, you're dealing with a puffback.
While you may want to begin cleaning yourself, the sticky, black soot and smoke residues are a tremendous challenge to clean.
For professional furnace puffback cleanup services in Guilford, CT call the fire and smoke damage restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline.
Call Our Office 24/7 For Immediate Assistance - 800-734-3213
Professional Puffback Cleaning in Guilford, CT
We Work With All Insurance Companies
We Handle The Insurance Process
Free Estimates
With over 15 years of experience with puffback cleanup in Guilford, CT and the surrounding areas, you can trust SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline to return your home to pre-damage conditions.
Our IICRC Certified fire damage restoration specialists have all the training, experience, and equipment needed to provide expert puffback cleanup services in Guilford, CT.
Furnace puff backs actually require the same cleaning and restoration methods as a house fire, one of the top specialties for SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline.
Our team will work directly with your insurance company to submit all needed estimates, paperwork, photographs, and more. This is all in an effort to make the restoration process easier for you.
Our goal is to quickly restore your home or business back to pre-damage conditions after a furnace puffback. When you use SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline for puffback cleanup in Guilford, CT, our team will make the damage "Like it never even happened."
Can You Clean Puffback Soot Yourself?
After a puffback occurs in your home, smoke and soot can cover virtually every surface. Many homeowners try to clean soot from a puff back themselves, but you shouldn't.
In fact, trying to cleanup smoke and soot damage yourself can make the problem worse.
- Scrubbing walls damaged by smoke and soot can embed it further
- Using improper chemicals or cleaning solutions on soot damage can make it harder for professionals to clean it later, increasing time and cost of restoration
- Without the proper materials, equipment, or techniques - Smoke and soot particles will not be taken out of the air, continuing the problem over time
- Homeowners may throw away fabrics or soft materials that could've been salvaged by a professional fire and smoke restoration service
What To Do After A Puffback
- File an insurance claim
- Contact a local HVAC professional to repair your heating system
- Call SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline for puffback cleaning services
- Do not use your heating system until it has been repaired and cleaned
Puffback Cleanup Services in Guilford
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline can handle all soot and smoke damage cleanup in Guilford after a furnace puff back in your home. When our puff back cleaning team arrives on site, they will immediately begin the following services:
- Isolate affected areas to prevent the further spread of soot particles
- Install air scrubbers to remove all soot and smoke particles from the air, aid in deodorization
- Soot cleaning of walls, ceilings, and floors using dry chemical sponges and SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline's specialized cleaning solutions
- Odor removal
- Duct cleaning to remove all smoke and soot residues from the heating system
- Content cleaning and restoration services
- Demolition (As needed)
- Painting & restoration by our construction division (As needed)
Call Today For Puffback Cleanup in Guilford, CT - 800-734-3213
Puffback Soot Cleaning Services in East Haven, CT
1/5/2021 (Permalink)
The cleaning after a furnace puffback in East Haven is a detailed process that has to be completed by professional fire restoration specialists.
You may assume the only way your home could sustain smoke damage would be in the event of a fire. But, the other leading cause of smoke and soot damage is a furnace puffback.
While you may want to start the cleanup yourself, this smoke and soot damage requires professional puffback cleanup services in East Haven, CT.
As your local fire and smoke damage restoration specialists, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline can make your furnace puffback in East Haven, CT "Like it never even happened."
Call Our Office 24/7 For Assistance - 800-734-3213
Professional Puffback Cleaning in East Haven, CT
We Work With All Insurance Companies
We Handle The Insurance Process
Free Estimates
Using our fire damage restoration cleaning methods, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline can provide thorough smoke and soot cleaning after a furnace puffback in East Haven.
Our IICRC Certified fire restoration specialists have all the training, experience, and equipment needed to provide expert puffback cleanup in East Haven, CT.
Our team will work directly with your insurance company to submit all needed estimates, paperwork, photographs, and more. This is all in an effort to make the restoration process easier for you.
Our goal is to quickly restore your home or business back to pre-damage conditions after a furnace puffback. When you use SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline for puffback cleaning in East Haven, CT, our team will make the damage "Like it never even happened."
Puffback Cleanup Services in East Haven, CT
You should always call a professional when it comes to cleaning up soot from a puffback.
Using soap, water or scrubbing your soot-covered walls can embed soot particles further and make it more difficult to clean.
In addition, without the proper chemicals or cleaning procedures, homeowners cannot completely remove all soot and smoke particles or address unwanted odors.
When you call SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline for puffback soot cleanup services, our representatives will ask a few questions:
- When did this occur?
- Is there visible soot?
- What areas of the home have been affected by smoke, soot, or odors?
- Have you tried cleaning anything yourself?
- Have you filed a claim with your insurance company?
- Is your HVAC system off?
These questions help us determine what methods and materials are required for your puffback cleanup in East Haven, CT.
When our soot cleaning and restoration teams arrive on site, they provide the following puff back soot cleaning services:
- Isolation of any affected areas to stop the further spread of soot particles
- Installation of air scrubbers to remove all soot and smoke particles from the air
- Soot cleaning of walls, ceilings, and floors using dry chemical sponges and SERVPRO cleaning solutions
- Smoke odor removal
- Duct cleaning to ensure all smoke and soot residues are removed from the heating system
- Upholstery cleaning
- Content cleaning and restoration services
- Demolition (As needed)
- Painting & restoration by our construction division (As needed)
How Do You Know A Puffback Has Occurred?
Depending on the severity of your furnace puffback, you may not be able to tell that it has happened right away.
In the case of a severe puffback, soot and smoke will leave visible black or grey stains on walls and ceilings. Areas where puffback soot deposition would be most noticeable is around your heating vents, as this is the source of soot particles being spread around your home.
For smaller furnace puff backs that occur over time, you may mistake soot for regular dust around your home. But, this dust may reappear only hours after being cleaned, and leave a dark residue on your fingers when you touch it.
Other signs of a puffback include:
- Soot 'Webs' - Soot particles cling to cobwebs or dusty areas of your home, turning them from translucent to black.
- Strong Odors - If you smell oil when your furnace or boiler kicks on, it can be a sign of a puffback.
- Soot on Your Hands - When touching walls or counters, you may notice fine, black soot on your hands.
- Streaking - If you go to regularly clean an area of your home and notice black or grey streaks form afterwards, it may be because of soot and smoke covering your walls.
Need Furnace Puffback Cleanup in East Haven, CT? Call SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline - 800-734-3213
Christmas Fire Safety Tips For Your Connecticut Home
12/2/2020 (Permalink)
While your holiday decorations fill your home with cheer, they may also fill it with fire hazards.
When holiday spirits are at a high - So are holiday fires. Your Christmas tree and decorations may transform your home into a winter wonderland, but they can also put it at a high risk of fires. In order to help prevent winter holiday fires in your Connecticut home, follow the tips we've outlined below!
Christmas Holiday Fire Safety Tips
Christmas Trees Fire Safety
Each holiday season, fire departments respond to an average of 160 Christmas tree fires each year. Out of these fires, electrical distribution (extension cords or power strips) and lighting equipment were involved 44% of the time. About three quarters of these Christmas tree fires occurred in December or January (NFPA).
To help prevent home fires started by Christmas trees, follow these tips:
- If using a real tree, pick one that has fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
- Be sure Christmas trees are at least three feet away from heat sources, fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights.
- If using a real tree, make sure to water it daily to keep it moist and lower the risk of a fire.
- Make sure the light strands on your tree are graded for indoor use.
- If your tree lights are worn or have broken cords, purchase new ones to avoid an electrical fire.
- Always turn off your Christmas tree lights before leaving the house or going to bed.
- Don't leave the tree up too long after Christmas - The older and dryer it gets, the higher the risk of a fire is.
To help prevent a fire stemming from your Christmas tree, you want to make sure it stays fresh, moist and watered, far from any objects that could light it on fire.
Christmas Decorations Fire Safety
Holiday decorations are a larger culprit of home holiday fires, with an estimated 780 home fires starting from decorations each year. Almost half of these fires were caused by decorations being placed too close to a heat source.
To prevent holiday fires started by Christmas decorations, follow these tips:
- Try and purchase decorations that are labeled as flame resistant or flame retardant.
- Use clips rather than nails to hang any holiday lights.
- Turn off any electrical decorations before leaving home or going to bed.
- Make sure to not use outdoor lights for inside.
- Be sure that your fire alarms are working in case a decoration catches fire.
Holiday Candle Fires
Did you know that more than half of all home decoration fires in the month of December are started by candles? And the top days for home candle fires are Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and New Year's Eve? (FEMA) The holidays are the top times for candle use, but also the top time for candle fires.
You can help prevent holiday candle fires by following these fire safety tips:
- Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn.
- Keep candles out of reach of children or animals, who can accidentally knock them over and start a fire.
- Do not decorate your Christmas tree with candles.
- Do not leave any candles burning unattended.
- Consider buying some battery powered candles to help lessen the likelihood of a fire.
- Make sure candles have sturdy candle holders so that they cannot fall over.
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline hopes that all of those in Connecticut have a safe, healthy, wonderful holiday season.
Furnace Puffback Cleanup in Branford, Connecticut
11/25/2020 (Permalink)
Here you can see smoke and soot residue covering the walls and ceilings of this local Branford home after a puff back.
After a puff back occurs in your Branford, Connecticut home, every surface can be covered by oily soot and smoke residues.
While you may want to start cleaning yourself, you should wait for SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline to provide professional puffback cleanup services in Branford, CT. This is because improper cleaning will make the issue worse.
When you need puffback cleaning in Branford, CT, the smoke and soot damage team at SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is Here to Help!
Call Today For Immediate Assistance - 800-734-3213
Puffback Cleanup Services in Branford, CT
We Work With All Insurance Companies
We Handle The Insurance Process
Free Estimates
While every soot cleanup project is unique and requires a specialized plan, SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline follows the same general process every time:
- Perform inspection and damage assessment - Our Project Managers will walk through your property and explain the clean up and deodorization process in detail.
- Set up equipment - SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline utilizes equipment like HEPA air scrubbers to filter particulates out of the air. This helps begin the odor removal process.
- Soot removal from all surfaces - The team at SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline will clean every inch of your property with specialized equipment to ensure all soot and smoke residues are removed.
- Restoration of fabrics - Soft goods such as furniture, clothing, or bedding may be salvageable when cleaned properly by a soot damage restoration company.
- Air duct cleaning - This step is important and is overlooked when homeowners perform cleanup themselves. The air ducts are what spread soot and smoke particles across your entire home and will do it again if not cleaned. This step is also hugely important for removing smoke odors.
- Needed restoration - Depending on the severity of your puff back, some items or areas of your home may not be able to be cleaned. Instead, these materials may have to be replaced. It is also possible that re-painting is necessary.
What is a Puffback?
A puff back is when unburned oil or gas ignites in the combustion chamber of your heating system, causing a misfire or explosion. This sends smoke and soot throughout your home through the ductwork.
Puffbacks can occur in both gas furnaces, oil furnaces, boilers, or even water heaters. However, these are more common in oil fired systems, simply because oil doesn't dissipate as easily as gas and is more likely to build up in the combustion chamber. Damage from puffbacks is also more severe in oil burning systems, as oil also produces more soot and smoke than gas when it combusts.
How Do Puffbacks Damage Your Branford, CT Property?
Puffbacks can occur in two different ways: In one large explosion, or in small, consistent misfires in your heating system. The large explosion will be quickly apparent across your home, suddenly causing smoke and black soot to cover every inch of your home.
On the other hand, the small, consistent misfires may not be noticed immediately. Rather, the soot and smoke won't be visible until it has built up for a while, likely first forming right outside heating vents and the baseboards of your home.
Regardless of whether a puffback is large or small, they similarly damage your home.
Damages from furnace puffbacks include:
- A film of soot covering walls, ceilings, cabinets, floors, rugs, furniture, bedding, clothing, food, drapes, countertops, and more
- Soot and smoke particles may force you to throw out furniture or fabrics if they cannot be restored
- Damage to heating systems
- Risk of fire from disconnected or damaged flue vent connector
- Risk of carbon monoxide leak in building
Can You Perform Puff Back Cleaning Yourself?
You should not try to perform a puffback cleanup in Branford, CT yourself. You may want to clean the sticky, smelly, black soot and smoke from your walls and ceilings as soon as it happens, but this will only make your problem worse.
Puff back cleaning should always be performed by a professional soot cleaning service. When you try and clean smoke, soot, and odors from a puffback yourself, the following can occur:
- Scrubbing walls damaged by smoke and soot can embed it further into the drywall
- Using improper chemicals or cleaning solutions on soot damage can make it harder for professionals to clean it later, increasing time and cost of restoration
- Without the proper materials, equipment, or techniques - unwanted smoke odors will be left behind
- Smoke and soot particles will not be taken out of the air, continuing the problem over time
- Homeowners may throw away fabrics or soft materials that could've been salvaged by a professional fire and smoke restoration service
After a puff back in your Branford, CT home, take the following steps:
- Call your homeowners insurance and file a claim.
- Call your local HVAC repair service to have your heating system fixed before using it again.
- Contact your local puff back cleaning service for proper smoke and soot cleanup as well as odor removal.
Need Puffback Cleanup in Branford, CT? Call SERVPRO For A Free Estimate!
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline accepts all insurance carriers and is open 24/7, 365 days a year to respond to your call. Whatever the disaster, we're ready to make it "Like it never even happened."
How To Put Out A Microwave Fire
10/21/2020 (Permalink)
Don't be overwhelmed if your microwave catches fire - Many times you will have no problem putting it out.
Most of us use our microwaves at least once a day without issue. According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), microwave fires account for only 4% of all home cooking fires every year, making it one of the safest appliances in your kitchen! Even so, it’s still possible to accidentally start a fire in your microwave (just ask the many college students making easy-mac across the country!). Knowing what to do if a fire starts in your microwave can make sure you stay safe and prevent as much fire damage as possible in your home.
What To Do If There's A Fire in The Microwave
- Immediately turn off the microwave and unplug it if the fire isn’t spreading and you can reach the cord. This will turn the fan off and stop feeding oxygen to the fire.
- Keep the microwave door CLOSED. This may cause the fire to suffocate and put itself out.
- Call the fire department if the fire has a risk of spreading or won’t go out on it’s own.
- Throw out the microwave.
Common Causes of Microwave Fires or Disasters
Preventing a microwave fire is easy if you know the top causes of them. Be sure to not to do any of the following:
- Leaving food in the microwave for too long. When you accidentally leave your popcorn in the microwave for too long and step away, you may come back to a smoky, sooty mess inside of it. Maybe you put leftovers in the microwave and entered twenty minutes rather than two minutes by mistake and walked away, not realizing the mistake until you smell something burning ten minutes in.
- Is food sparking? Most of the time this isn’t a problem - Sparks aren't a sign of microwave malfunctions and aren't very likely to start a fire.
- Putting non-microwave safe containers in the microwave. Be sure to double check whether or not a new container is safe before putting it in the microwave (Like the takeout container from last night). Cheap or styrofoam containers may melt or warp and create a mess to clean up. Microwave warnings are usually printed on the underside of the container.
- Putting things in the microwave that absolutely cannot go in it. These items are highly prone to creating a disaster to cleanup in your microwave or could even start a small fire:
- Aluminum foil
- Paper bags
- Plastic bags
- Metal travel mugs
- Metal cutlery
- Paper takeout containers with metal handles (like Chinese takeout boxes)
- Certain foods like peppers, hard boiled eggs, or other things that may explode when cooking at a high temperature.
Common Questions
Can I keep my microwave after it had a fire in it?
Keeping your microwave will depend on how large the fire was, what caught on fire, and if any components of the microwave were damaged. If you forgot to put water in an instant ramen or easy mac and were able to turn off the microwave when it started to smoke, but didn’t catch fire, you should be fine to keep it. It may smell or be discolored but work fine. If there was an actual fire in the microwave, inspect to see if it was damaged by it. In these situations, we would recommend throwing it out and buying a new one.
How do I get rid of the smell after a microwave fire?
After a microwave fire, the odor coming from it may be enough for you to want to throw it out. If you want to try and get rid of the smell to continue using it, we recommend the following:
- Microwave a bowl with 1 tablespoon of vinegar and half a cup of water for 5 minutes, then let it sit and steam for about 15 to 20 minutes. White vinegar helps to neutralize smells and remove food stains.
- Use a clean rag to clean out any burnt food or stains from the interior of the microwave.
- Leave the door open to dry.
Does insurance cover the damages from microwaves that start a house fire?
Yes, your insurance company should cover any accidental fires in your home so long as you did not start it intentionally and it was not due to lack of maintenance.
Fire, Smoke, or Odors in Your Home? Call SERVPRO - 800-734-3213
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is a 24/7 damage restoration service specializing in fire, water, mold and COVID-19 services. Whatever your damage, call SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."
How to Safely Put Out A Grease Fire
10/12/2020 (Permalink)
The aftermath of a grease fire in your kitchen can be devastating.
Even when practicing proper kitchen safety, starting a grease fire in your kitchen can happen in the blink of an eye. In fact, cooking related fires account for about 50% of all all reported home fires in the United States. Out of these kitchen fires, an unsurprising 52% were started by the ignition of cooking oil, fat, or grease. With the odds of starting a cooking fire so high - It's best to know how to stop a grease fire safely in your home.
Do's and Don'ts of Grease Fires
DO:
- Have baking soda, salt, or a Class B Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher in your kitchen in case a grease fire starts.
- Have a metal lid nearby when cooking with fats or grease to quickly cut off oxygen to the pan.
- Use the correct type of cooking oils and follow proper safety guidelines when frying foods.
DO NOT:
- Try to pour water on the fire. This will only cause it to get worse and possibly cause hot grease to spill out of the pan and spread the fire.
- Don't move the pot or pan that the fire is in. This can feed the flames and burn you.
- Do not pour flower, baking powder, or other flammable cooking powders on to the fire.
How To Put Out A Grease Fire
- Assess the situation first. If the fire is small, just started, or is clearly confined to the pan you're cooking in, you can likely put it out yourself. However, if the fire is large or rapidly spreading, immediately leave the home and call 911 to report a grease cooking fire.
- Turn off the heat. Turn off the burner as soon as you can to stop the heat source of the fire.
- Smother the fire in baking soda or salt. Even a small fire will require a large amount of these everyday kitchen items to put it out. Do not throw these on to the fire from the side - This action may cause the fire to 'leap' out of the pan and spread. Using baking soda on a grease fire is one of the most tried and true methods for putting them out.
- Cover the pot. Use a large cookie sheet or the lid to the pan. A cookie sheet may be easier to place when there is an active fire from the burning oil, since you will not have to put your hands directly above the fire.
- Wait and watch. Don't assume you're safe just yet. Wait and make sure that the fire doesn't continue, and do not move or touch the pot until you are sure it has gone out and cooled.
- When you're unsure - Call 911! It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to dealing with a grease fire.
Ways to Prevent Grease Fires
Since the likelihood of starting a grease-related kitchen fire is so high, it's best to take steps to make sure you don't start them in the first place.
- Stay in the kitchen while cooking - especially when frying or using cooking oils. Unattended cooking the leading cause of kitchen fires.
- Keep items that could catch fire away from the stove.
- Do not put frozen foods into hot grease - or you may have a frozen turkey vs. deep fryer situation on your hands!
- Use grease or oils at their labeled recommended temperatures. When you see smoking or smell burning, immediately turn off the burner and remove the pan from the heat to prevent a fire from starting.
- Gently place foods in to a frying pan to prevent splattering of hot oils.
- Be sure to clean any grease traps on your stove or grill. Buildup of fats and oils can cause fires.
What Should You Do After A Grease Fire?
Once you or the fire department have put out your fire, what are the next steps? It's likely that even with a small fire, you're struggling with unwanted odors and smoke stains covering walls or cabinets. If a fire extinguisher was used, the powder may cover your entire kitchen. It's even possible that splattered grease may be covering your cooking area as well.
Call a fire damage restoration service.
These types of services can perform all cleanup related to a grease or kitchen fire - cleaning smoke, grease, and even removing unwanted odors from your home that you may not be able to get rid of yourself. If you filed an insurance claim, these companies can also work with your carrier to have no out-of-pocket costs to you.
Need Help? Call SERVPRO 24/7 - 800-734-3213
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is a damage restoration company specializing in fire, water, mold and COVID-19 services. Whatever the damage, SERVPRO is here to make it "Like it never even happened."
What is a Furnace Puffback & How Do You Prevent Them?
10/7/2020 (Permalink)
Blackened dust or cobwebs around your house are a sign of a furnace puffback.
Moving into the colder months, your heating system will be used around the clock. With regular maintenance by HVAC professionals, it should stay running smoothly all winter long. However, if your heating system isn't working correctly and the warning signs of a puffback are ignored, you may be left with a big sooty mess to cleanup.
A puffback is an explosion or misfire inside the burner chamber of your furnace or boiler. Note: Hot-air systems use furnaces while steam/hot water systems use boilers. This explosion sends smoke and soot throughout your home and requires professional puffback cleaning.
How Do Puffbacks Occur?
Puffbacks occur when a furnace or boiler doesn't properly ignite, allowing oil or gas vapors to build up in the combustion chamber. When the built up vapors do ignite, the excess amount of fuel in the chamber explodes or combusts. This then sends soot and smoke throughout the home's heating system, and can cover every surface.
Puffbacks can occur in one large misfire, or over time with smaller more constant misfires. When there is a large explosion inside your furnace, you may immediately notice black soot coming from your heating vents along with a smell immediately. But for the smaller explosions, you may not notice they are happening until soot becomes visible to your eye months later.
While they can occur in both oil and gas-fueled systems, misfires are more common in oil furnaces or boilers. This is because oil does not dissipate as easily and is more likely to build up in the heating system. Oil furnace puffbacks are also more damaging, as oil produces more soot and smoke than gas when it combusts.
What Actually Causes A Puffback?
Accumulation of fuel in the combustion chamber is what causes misfires, but what causes it to build up? There are a few reasons for fuel buildup in gas or oil burners:
- Leaks in the fuel supply line or at the combustion chamber
- Clogged or cracked oil fuel nozzles
- Clogged exhaust
- Clogged burner
These things can cause excess oil or gas to build up in the combustion chamber and lead to a misfire when it lights.
How Can You Prevent Them?
- Have your heating system serviced once a year. Even when you feel your systems are functioning correctly, it is still important to have them maintained. An HVAC professional can clear out any buildup or replace any parts that are causing the system to not perform at high efficiency.
- Install a carbon monoxide detector. When you have a puffback in your home, the carbon monoxide levels will rise. By installing a detector, you may be able to catch these misfires in their early stages before they cause extensive smoke or soot damage.
- Know the signs that your heating system is not working properly. When it isn't, it is likely to lead to a puffback. Signs include:
- Oil leaks
- Loud ignition
- Noise that continues after the system is off
- Odors
- Noticing soot buildup around your home
- Take action immediately. When you notice any of the above warning signs or suspect there is something going on with your heating system - take action quickly. On top of creating a sooty mess of your home, misfires can also be extremely dangerous as it is an explosion within your heating system.
What Should You Do If It Happens to You?
If a puffback happens to you, it can cause cause your entire building to be covered in soot and may even damage your entire heating system. Take the following steps to help return your property back to normal and prevent more damage:
- Immediately turn off the heating system to prevent further misfires, damage, and soot from spreading around the building.
- Evacuate the building if there is risk of a fire, a large amount of smoke, or the carbon monoxide detector is going off.
- Document everything for your insurance company if you plan on making a claim. While most puffbacks are cause by lack of maintenance, it doesn't hurt to see if it will be covered.
- Contact your HVAC repair technician. They will need to inspect and repair the system before it can be used again, and they will be able to identify the cause of the puffback to help ensure it doesn't happen again.
- Contact a professional puffback cleanup service. It is likely tempting to try and undertake the cleaning yourself, but without the right materials or knowledge you can actually end up smearing soot further into the walls. It is also likely that there is much more smoke and soot affecting your property than you can see with a naked eye. Soot cleanup companies will use dry chemical sponges to get soot off of walls and show you all areas which are actually affected.
Call SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline For Puffback Cleanup - 800-734-3213
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline is a 24/7 damage restoration company specializing in fire, water, mold and COVID-19 services. Call us today to make any disaster "Like it never even happened."
Fire Damage Restoration Process in Branford
1/9/2020 (Permalink)
Fire damage can be overwhelming. Call SERVPRO of Branford when you don't know where to start.
A fire event can be devastating for a home or business in the Branford area. Even after the flames are out, you may be overwhelmed by the damages. The fire may have compromised the structure of your building, soot and smoke damage can cover your walls and furniture, and you may even face water damage from the fire-fighting efforts.
So, where do you start once the flames are out? Well, the answer isn't always straightforward as every fire damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution. But, the general process remains the same. The steps below outline our process for the 'typical' fire damage emergency.
Step 1: Emergency Contact
The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources.
Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.
Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service
Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.
Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.
Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.
Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing
We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
Step 7: Restoration
Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
Call SERVPRO of Branford / Shoreline to restore your property back to pre-fire condition. We're open 24/7, 365 days a year to respond to your call.
800-734-3213
Fireplace Safety Tips
12/26/2019 (Permalink)
Stay safe this winter with SERVPRO's fireplace safety tips!
As winter quickly approaches and the weather starts to get cold, keep these potentially lifesaving fireplace safety tips in mind.
- Only Burn Dry Wood - Wood should be dried for 8 to 12 months before burning.
- Burn Only Fire Wood - Though you may be tempted to burn other types of wood (old pallets, crates, painted wood, etc.) these woods can contain dangerous and flammable chemicals.
- Install CO2 and Fire Detectors - Though you may see or smell a fire, CO2 is a silent and odorless killer. It’s very important to have detectors for both of these things – it could save your life!
- Get Your Chimney Cleaned - Soot builds up in chimneys very quickly. If you use your chimney consistently for the cold months, make sure to get it cleaned twice a year to prevent fires.
These tips can help to save your home from a fire.
Call SERVPRO of Branford / Shoreline if you ever need fire damage restoration services.
Here for you 24/7!
Preventing Christmas Tree Fire Damage in Branford
12/19/2019 (Permalink)
Keep your family and home safe from fire damage this holiday season with our tips!
Everyone loves getting into the holiday spirit by decorating their home this time of year. But, decorations like Christmas trees and lights may pose a fire hazard to your home.
Did you know:
- More than one of every four home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.
- A heat source to close to a Christmas tree causes one in every four of holiday fires.
- Nearly half of all holiday decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source.
To prevent fire damage in your home this holiday season, SERVPRO of Branford / Shoreline recommends following these fire safety tips.
- If buying a real tree, choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. This will lower the risk of fire due to a dry tree.
- Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source: fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights.
- Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit. This is a fire hazard.
- Add water to the tree stand and be sure to add water daily. A dry, dying tree increases risk of fire.
- Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
SERVPRO of Branford / Shoreline hopes that you will follow these Christmas tree fire safety tips to stay safe this holiday season!
Source: nfpa.org
Damage After the Flames are Out
9/16/2019 (Permalink)
Fires are a scary and catastrophic event. Of course, your first step with any fire in your home or business is to call your local fire department. Once the flames are put out, the worst is over.
However, the damage after the fire can be scary too! Between charred belongings, damage to the structure of your building, broken windows, and smoke damage, the cleanup may seem impossible!
Luckily, SERVPRO of Branford / Shoreline are experts in exactly this sort of cleanup. No matter how small or large of a fire you're dealing with, you can count on our team to clean up the damage. We can make any size fire damage, "Like it never even happened." Call the team at SERVPRO of Branford / Shoreline for all of your fire damage needs.
What Happens After A Fire
9/15/2019 (Permalink)
You’ve had a fire in your Branford home, now what? Overwhelming feelings of panic and stress are normal, but they don’t have to be. There are three main steps to take after the fire has been put out in your home.
- Call The Experts
Though you might want to handle things on your own, it’s always best to leave fire restoration to the experts. Begin by calling your insurance company to let them know of the damage. Then, be sure to call in a restoration company to aid in the cleanup process. If not handled correctly, fire restoration can be a long process – call SERVPRO of Branford / Shoreline to get it done quickly.
- Board Up
After a fire, you’ll need your home to be secured to prevent any further damage from rain, debris, and even animals. Be sure to ask your restoration company for board up services to protect your property.
- Leave the Rest Alone!
The final step is to leave the rest to the experts. You might want to help out with the cleanup, but it’s always best to let your restoration company handle the next steps. Fire damage can be catastrophic – but it can be even more catastrophic if handled incorrectly. Once you have a trustworthy restoration company on site, they can handle the damage for you.
If you’re not sure which company to contact after a fire in your Branford home, give SERVPRO of Branford / Shoreline a call. Our team is locally owned and operated which means we can be out to your Branford home faster than anyone else. We take pride in being the best fire restoration experts in Branford. We can make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”
Local Firefighter Appreciation
9/12/2019 (Permalink)
Brian Levchuk with members of the New Haven Fire Department on 9/11/19
September 11th, 2001 was a day that the United States will never forget. 18 years later, the day still weighs heavy in all of our hearts.
One of the members of our team, Brian Levchuk, here at SERVPRO of Branford / Shoreline took it upon himself to go out and honor local heroes on the 18th anniversary of this tragic event. Brian spent his day stopping by local fire departments to visit, chat, and drop off supplies.
This year, and every year, our team at SERVPRO of Branford / Shoreline honors the sacrifices that first responders make for our country everyday. So, while you remember the heroes who lost their lives on 9/11, also remember to salute those who are so brave to serve our country everyday.
To all of those who were first responders on 9/11, and to all of those who are first responders today, we thank you.
Top 3 Fire Hazards in Branford Homes
9/10/2019 (Permalink)
Branford Home Fire
A fire in your home is one of the scariest things imaginable. At SERVPRO of Branford / Shoreline, we help home owners recover from the disastrous effects of fires daily. However, if you’re careful and avoid these common fire hazards, you won’t ever have to face a fire disaster on your property.
Candles
Though candles are wonderful to have around the house, they can also be quite dangerous. If you choose to burn candles in your home, make sure to keep them away from flammable items. Always be sure to put out the candles before leaving your house or going to bed.
Dryer Vents
A sneaky culprit of home fires is clogged dryer vents. Many homeowners don’t ever think to get their vents cleaned out. However, as lint gathers, the vents get clogged, heat builds and lint catches fire easily. Make sure to get your dryer vents cleaned regularly to avoid disaster.
Grease
Though many homeowners already know, grease fires are a common cause of larger kitchen fires. Grease from foods like bacon gets hot very quickly - if left alone, even for only a minute or two, a fire can quickly ignite. Be sure to watch the pan when cooking with grease and always have a fire extinguisher in your home.
Hopefully, you won’t ever have to deal with a fire in your home. If disaster strikes, call the experts at SERVPRO of Branford / Shoreline and we can make your fire disaster “Like it never even happened.”
The Invisible Dangers of Smoke Damage
9/10/2019 (Permalink)
If you look closely to the ceiling, you can see slight discoloration due to smoke damage.
Major fires lead to major damage. However, if you’ve faced a minor fire in your home, you might think you’ve avoided any damages at all. Just because you can’t see the effects of fire, doesn’t mean they’re not there.
The most common, and most dangerous effect of fires, is smoke damage. Sometimes, the damage isn’t even visible to the eye. Nonetheless, smoke damage is dangerous even when it’s not visible. Smoke damage leaves invisible and toxic gasses as contaminants in the air. Gases such as carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and phosgene can leave foul smells and contribute to health problems.
If you have smoke damage, it’s better to call the experts than to try and handle the issue yourself. SERVPRO of Branford / Shoreline has an expert team who are trained to mitigate smoke damage in your home or business. Give us a call to make your smoke disaster “Like it never even happened.”
Prevent Home Fires During this Sumner
6/4/2019 (Permalink)
Prevent Home Fires During this Sumner
As per U.S. fire departments respond to a home fire every 86 seconds. That’s over 30,000 fires a month. Home fires can occur for a variety of reasons, but many are preventable. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires, accounting for over half of home fires, followed by heating equipment, electrical malfunction, intentional fires and smoking materials.
Home fires are not 100% reventable. Though, you can take necessary steps today to reduce your risk of home fires. Here’s how:
• Install and maintain smoke alarms on every floor of your home and within every bedroom. Roughly 50% of home fire deaths occur during the night while people are sleeping.
• Never leave food cooking unattended, especially deep fryers and other frying equipment.
• Avoid using portable and fixed space heaters, as heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fire deaths.
• Have a fire plan that gets you out of your home in less than two minutes and practice it.
• Avoid smoking in the house.
Summer Fire Safety in Connecticut
7/18/2018 (Permalink)
Summer Fire Safety in Connecticut
Every year we look forward to summer vacations, camping, family reunions, picnics, and the Fourth of July. Summertime, however, also brings fires and injuries due to fireworks and outdoor cooking.
Tell your community, the best way to protect their families is to not use fireworks at home. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends attending public displays and leaving the lighting of fireworks to the professionals.
A study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission shows that over 200 people on average go the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the July 4th holiday. Fireworks are dangerous!
Know how to prevent a burn while you enjoy outdoor activity this summer.
Wear short sleeves or roll them up when cooking on the grill.
Use long-handled barbecue tools.
Keep a 3-foot safe zone around grills, fire pits and campfires.
Attend public fireworks displays; this leaves the lighting to the professionals.
Incase if you need restore fire damage, we are here to help, Contact SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline.
Hot Weather Safety
6/19/2018 (Permalink)
Hot Weather Safety
It’s summer, do you know that heat may cause illness or even death? When temperatures rise to extreme highs, reduce risks by taking the following precautions.
Stay indoors and in an air-conditioned environment as much as possible unless you're sure your body has a high tolerance for heat.
- Drink plenty of fluids but avoid beverages that contain alcohol, caffeine or a lot of sugar.
- Eat more frequently but make sure meals are balanced and light.
- Never leave any person or pet in a parked vehicle.
- Avoid dressing babies in heavy clothing or wrapping them in warm blankets.
- Check frequently on people who are elderly, ill or may need help. If you might need help, arrange to have family, friends or neighbors check in with you at least twice a day throughout warm weather periods.
- Make sure pets have plenty of water.
- Salt tablets should only be taken if specified by your doctor. If you are on a salt-restrictive diet, check with a doctor before increasing salt intake.
- If you take prescription diuretics, antihistamines, mood-altering or antispasmodic drugs, check with a doctor about the effects of sun and heat exposure.
- Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun. Awnings or louvers can reduce the heat entering a house by as much as 80 percent.
Smoking Fires Are Preventable!!
6/15/2018 (Permalink)
Smoking Fires Are Preventable!!
The place where we feel safest — at home — is where most smoking-materials structure fires, deaths, and injuries occur. Smoking materials are the leading cause of fire deaths. Smoking material fires are preventable.
Smoking Safety
- If you smoke, use only fire-safe cigarettes.
- If you smoke, smoke outside. Most deaths result from fires that started in living rooms, family rooms and dens or in bedrooms.
- Keep cigarettes, lighters, matches, and other smoking materials up high out of the reach of children, in a locked cabinet.
Make Sure
- Use a deep, sturdy ashtray. Place it away from anything that can burn.
- Do not discard cigarettes in vegetation such as mulch, potted plants or landscaping, peat moss, dried grasses, leaves or other things that could ignite easily.
- Before you throw away butts and ashes, make sure they are out, and dousing in water or sand is the best way to do that.
Smoking and Medical Oxygen
Never smoke and never allow anyone to smoke where medical oxygen is used. Medical oxygen can cause materials to ignite more easily and make fires burn at a faster rate than normal. It can make an existing fire burn faster and hotter.
Fire Restoration Service in North Branford CT
6/8/2018 (Permalink)
Fire Restoration Service in North Branford CT
When fire damages your property in Branford, Connecticut, the situation that results is often heartbreaking and overwhelming to deal with.
The main causes of a house fire can range from food left unattended on the stove, candles, burdened electrical connections, cigarettes or cigars or lighting and appliance malfunctions.
From the moment, a fire starts to the point where the structure is fully engulfed is usually less than two minutes, which is why it is so important for occupants to get out of the home as quickly as possible and not try to put out a large fire themselves. One of the most common misconceptions about house fires is that the emergency services will provide a fire damage restoration service. Unfortunately, this is not the case. You’re bound to have damage from fire, smoke, and water from the fire-fighter’s efforts. For all of this, you need to undergo a restoration process with a reputable fire restoration company in North Branford, CT? Call SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline today.
Always Get a Fire Restoration Service after a House Fire
You might think that the damage from a fire is not a big deal, but what lurks behind can do serious harm to your body. Don’t risk getting sick and hire professional fire restoration company to clean up after you. This way, you can make your house a home again as quickly as possible.
Fire Damage Restoration Emergency Response Team in East Haven, CT
6/8/2018 (Permalink)
Fire Damage Restoration Emergency Response Team in East Haven, CT
Smoke and fire damage is dependent on several factors which all impact on the fire damage restoration process.
The temperature of the fire and smoke movement determines what damage occurs, and predominately where the most damage occurs. Smoke can penetrate the smallest areas; so it is common in fire and smoke damaged houses are areas that weren’t affected first hand by the fire. It is critical to ensure the fire damage restoration begins as soon as possible.
As smoke is acidic, moisture and humidity are a catalyst to the corrosive dilapidation of finishes and fixtures in the premises. It is hard to imagine a situation more traumatising and unwanted than a fire in your home. Even a small fire can cause extensive damage and impact on your family’s sense of security.
At SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline, our Fire Damage Restoration emergency response team are knowledgeable and sympathetic to your situation and should be the first step towards putting your life back together. Securing your home to prevent further damage or deterioration is our number one priority.
SERVPRO of Branford/Shoreline, CT’s tried and tested fire restoration methods mean we are able to save many building components and valuable personal items. Even if the damage looks severe, items can often be remediated to the pre-damage condition. From furniture to appliances, computers and even family heirlooms, our team of Fire Damage Restoration specialists have developed methods to successfully remediate your personal belongings, saving you from more heartache in this unfortunate event.
Electricity Safety Checklist
5/25/2018 (Permalink)
Electricity Safety Checklist
- Call a qualified electrician or your landlord if you have:
Frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers - A tingling feeling when you touch an electrical appliance
- Discolored or warm wall outlets
- A burning or rubbery smell coming from an appliance
- Flickering or dimming lights
- Sparks from an outlet q Inspect your home for hidden electrical hazards.
- Inspect your home for hidden electrical hazards.
- Check electrical cords to make sure the wires are not damaged, cracked or loose. If the cords need to be repaired, take the item to a professional repair shop, hire an electrician or replace with a new item.
- Make sure cords are not running across doorways or under carpets. If they are, have a qualified electrician install more outlets.
- Keep children away from electric cords and outlets. Cords placed in the mouth can cause a burn and objects placed in a receptacle can cause a shock, burns or electrocution.
- Make sure that all receptacle outlets and switches have faceplates.
- Never put more than one plug in each receptacle. An outlet may have one or more receptacles — one to receive each plug.
- Be sure that the bulbs in your lights match what is safe for the lamp. There should be a sticker that indicates the maximum wattage for the light bulb — such as use maximum of a 60 watt bulb.
- Light bulbs in the living area of your home, including closets, should have a shade or globe for protection. Light bulbs can get very hot and cause a fire if something that can burn is too close.
- Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) reduce the risk of shock by shutting off an electrical circuit when the circuit could be a shock hazard. Your home should have GFCIs in the kitchen, bathroom(s), laundry, basement, garage, and outdoor areas.
- Heat producing appliances such as a toaster, coffee maker, iron or microwave oven draw a lot of electricity. Plug only one heat producing appliance in each outlet to prevent wiring from overheating.
- Buy only appliances that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
- Arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) protect against fire by monitoring the electrical current in a circuit and shutting off the circuit when unintended arcing occurs. AFCIs should be installed in your home. If not, have a qualified electrician install them for you.
- Keep ladders away from overhead power lines, including the electrical service into your home.
The Facts About Chimney Fires
5/14/2018 (Permalink)
The Facts About Chimney Fires
Your chimney–and the flue that lines it–adds architectural interest to your home, but its real function is to carry dangerous flue gases from your fireplace, wood stove or furnace safely out of your home.
As you relax in front of your fireplace or bask in the warmth of your wood stove, the last thing you are likely to be thinking about is the condition of your chimney. However, if you don’t give some thought to it before you light those winter fires, your enjoyment may be very short-lived.
Why?
Dirty chimneys can cause chimney fires, which damage structures, destroy homes and injure or kill people.
Indications of a chimney fire have been described as creating:
- loud cracking and popping noise
- a lot of dense smoke, and
- an intense, hot smell
Chimney fires can burn explosively – noisy and dramatic enough to be detected by neighbors or people passing by. Flames or dense smoke may shoot from the top of the chimney. Homeowners report being startled by a low rumbling sound that reminds them of a freight train or a low flying airplane. However, those are only the chimney fires you know about.
SERVPRO of Branford / Shoreline specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.
Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.
Fire Damage from Power cords
11/3/2017 (Permalink)
Fire Damage from Power cords
Power cords on electrical appliances that are moved frequently receive a lot of abuse. These include vacuum cleaners, floor polishers, power tools and other portable appliances. Often, the damage occurs at the plug (i.e., a missing ground prong on a three pronged grounded plug).
Damaged and ungrounded power cords pose serious hazards to users of the appliance including electrical shock and risk of fire. Missing ground prongs on power cord plugs usually result from users pulling on the cord to remove the plug from the outlet instead of handling the plug directly.
In some cases, the plug may be pulled from the wire covering, exposing the inner wires to damage. Power cords can become frayed or damaged from heavy use, age, or excessive current flow through the wiring.
When a power cord is damaged, the appliance should be removed from service and the cord replaced as soon as possible to reduce the risk of electrical shock, electrocution or fire. Cord damage can also result when the cord is pinched, caught between or punctured by heavy objects such as legs on a desk. This damage could lead to a short circuit and result in a fire. Also, cords placed under stress, such as when a heavy appliance is hung by its cord, could eventually cause damage to the cord or plug.
For greater detail on power cords, please see www.compliance.gov.
What to Do When the Fire Alarm Sounds?
7/11/2017 (Permalink)
What to Do When the Fire Alarm Sounds? SERVPRO or Branford CT
A smoke detector will emit its shrill warning if a fire breaks out at your home. You’ve heard that sound in fire and life safety drills. You flash back to tips you picked up as kids. You recall those fire protection pamphlets and those things you read while surfing the web. These are some of the things that might roll through your mind in the first few seconds after hearing that sound. The adrenaline is flowing and you know you must act fast.
Alarms don’t just happen. Always assume a fire alarm is the real thing. Fire alarm systems and smoke detectors are sensitive and effective. Yeah, sure, some prankster could have pulled a fire alarm box. Maybe someone heating up a snack in the break room got careless and smoke set off a smoke detector. Perhaps you’ve neglected something on the stove or in the oven. These thoughts might come to mind too, but now is not the time for second guesses. This is the time for immediate fire protection action.
Regardless of where you are, home or work, stay alert and action-oriented. Do not panic! Get ready to evacuate. If your keys, purse and cell phone are handy, grab them. If at work, don’t worry about those knickknacks and photos in your work area; don’t think about taking time to deal with your computer. Your building is probably equipped with sprinkler systems. These will minimize damage. If you are in a multi-story building look for that exit sign and head for the stairway, forget about the elevator. If you are at home, get out as soon as possible. Things are replaceable, your life isn’t.
In case of a fire in your home, get outside quickly and move safely as far away from your home as possible. In any environment you are likely to be surrounded by highly flammable objects. Fire is fast.
Regardless of where you are fire and safety services professionals will arrive quickly. Stay out of their way; do not attempt to assist them. They are well trained professionals, fighting fires and saving lives is their business and they are very good at what they do. Listen to what they say, follow their instructions.
No one wants to think they may become the victim of a fire but fire can happen anywhere, anytime. Prevention and preparation are your best weapons. Use them well!
Friend us on FACEBOOK
Storage of Flammable Materials
6/7/2017 (Permalink)
Storage of Flammable Materials
Extra packing boxes stored in the wrong place, close to ignition sources, are combustibles. Chemicals stored near work areas are also an extremely dangerous situation as the probability of a flammable occurrence is increased. Explosion resistant drums and cabinets are also combustibles.
While it is easier to store bottles of cleaners and chemicals close to work sites, it is a dangerous practice. It is also dangerous to store flammable containers, and reactive and explosive chemicals in shipping cartons unless the containers or cartons are flame-resistant.Storage boxes are inexpensive but carry a higher risk of flammable situations. It is recommended to use storage cabinets, they can get expensive however, the price of a fire is much more costly.
To effectively reduce the risk of a potential fire, we suggest keeping extra inventory of flammables to a minimum. Less storage space is needed, and potential fuel sources for a fire are decreased.
Fire Prevention!!
5/17/2017 (Permalink)
Fire Prevention-SERVPRO of Branford
Did you know that if a fire starts in your home you may have as little as two minutes to escape? During a fire, early warning from a working smoke alarm plus a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives. Learn what else to do to keep your loved ones safe!
- Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
- Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, change the batteries.
- Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.
- If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone.
Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Have Questions? Call Us Today – (203) 488-8881
Maintain a Survivable Space - "Things You Can Do Today"
5/11/2017 (Permalink)
Fire Damage - "Things You Can Do Today"
- Clean roof surfaces and gutters of pine needs, leaves, branches, etc., regularly to avoid accumulation of flammable materials.
- Remove portions of any tree extending within 10 feet of the flue opening of any stove or chimney.
- Maintain a screen constructed of non-flammable material over the flue opening of every chimney or stovepipe. Mesh openings of the screen should not exceed 1/2 inch.
- Landscape vegetation should be spaced so that fire can not be carried to the structure or surrounding vegetation.
- Remove branches from trees to height of 15 feet.
- A fuel break should be maintained around all structures.
- Dispose of stove or fireplace ashes and charcoal briquettes only after soaking them in a metal pail of water.
- Store gasoline in an approved safety can away from occupied buildings.
- Propane tanks should be far enough away from buildings for valves to be shut off in case of fire. Keep area clear of flammable vegetation.
- All combustibles such as firewood, picnic tables, boats, etc. should be kept away from structures.
- Garden hose should be connected to outlet.
- Addressing should be indicated at all intersections and on structures.
- All roads and driveways should be at least 16 feet in width.
- Have fire tools handy such as: ladder long enough to reach the roof, shovel, rake and bucket for water.
- Each home should have at least two different entrance and exit routes.
Source
www.nifc.gov
24/7 Emergency Service