What You Can Expect from A Professional Fire Damage Restoration?

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

Your home or business is one of your significant investments, which is why one has to be extra cautious about these properties. To rebuild these things, you will need to hire a Fire Restoration Company in Saratoga Springs to guide you through the recovery process.

Since this disaster could strike at any time, it is better to be safe than sorry. Therefore, as a certified restoration company, we suggest that you take a professional fire restoration service.

Fire damage restoration professionals perform a variety of tasks to assure that fire-stricken homes return to a safe, healthy, and normal, or even better condition. Below are things you can expect from SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort during the cleaning and restoration process:

• Use of a professional vacuum cleaner to completely remove the last particles of chemicals, soot, smoke, and ash.
  
  
• Use deodorizers to properly contain smoke, chemical agents, and combustible substances such as plastic, wood, and foam.
  
  
• Completely discard the water used to put out fires to prevent mold growth and further harm to your home's structures.
  
  
• Identification and safe disposal of salvageable items.
  
  
• Repair, replace, or restore your property's structures, such as drywall, ceilings, floors, windowpane, and studs.

All these points lay stress on the importance of having a fire damage expert by your side when a fire damages your home. Always consider the risks and challenges of cleaning your home after a fire.

Let a professional Fire Restoration Company in Saratoga Springs like SERVPRO take care of everything from cleaning it to handling your insurance claims to rebuilding your home. Our team of experts is here to offer a better service. Contact us today at (518) 580-1111 to learn more about our Restoration services.

3 Ways the Pros Will Remove the Smoke Smell From Your Home

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

Ozone machines help to clean out the air.

Three Ways To Remove Smoke Odor From Your Home

Even after the flame has been extinguished and the charred remains of your belongings have been removed, you'll notice that the smell of smoke lingers in your Saratoga Springs, NY, home. Instead of using masking agents, such as air fresheners, to cover up the smell, the professionals cleaning your home will follow a strict protocol to keep the smell at bay. Here are three ways they will eliminate the smoke smell from your home. 

1. Remove Smoke Damage Residue
The first step in smoke cleaning is to remove the damage. This damage includes items burned in the fire and soot and smoke left on the walls. The cleaners will use a special vacuum to ensure that all traces of soot are removed from all surfaces. They will then use a specialized cleaner to remove the soot off the walls, which helps keep the smell from returning. 

2. Filter the Air
Even though you may not see it, there will be many soot and smoke particles in the air, which will cause the smoke odor to return over time if not treated properly. The odor removal professionals will use air filtration devices to clean and filter the air circulating throughout your home. If the smell remains after filtering the air, they will also use ozone machines to help clean the air, ensuring that the smoke cleaning process is successful. 

3. Seal the Surfaces
As the final step of the cleaning process, the cleaners will seal the surfaces in your home damaged by smoke. The specialized sealing agent will prevent any smoke particles from seeping through and can be painted over so there won't be any evidence of the fire left. 
Doing a thorough smoke cleaning can take some time and patience. However, when you trust the professionals to do it, you can rest assured knowing it's done correctly and that the smells won't return. 

Kinds of Fire Damage Cleanup

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

Fire and its aftermath are never easy to deal with. After a fire, it is imperative to have a professional fire damage cleanup attend to your property at the soonest possible time to lessen the incurred damages. If your property is within Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort, make sure to contact us today!

Here are the three usual fire damage cleanup scenarios your fire damage restoration company will likely encounter:

Soot Removal

Soot is produced when the fuel source of fire is not completely consumed. It later ionizes and sticks to the surfaces including your HVAC system. If soot is not removed after a fire, it will be pumped back into circulation as soon as you turn on the system. To solve this problem even before it causes more inconvenience, hire an experienced fire damage cleanup company to help with solutions to soot.

2. Ozone Treatment For Stench

Textiles smelling like burned or smoked is to be expected in case of fire. These have to undergo oxidization so they can be deodorized. To do this, your fire damage company will utilize the ozone generator inside a tent to properly cleanse the textiles of stench. Remember to have your clothing and other fabrics deodorized before attempting to wash them so the stench does not set in the fabric.

3. Thermal Fogging For Stench

When a fire occurs, the structure of your home gets soaked with the stench of smoke. This is because the ports in the wallboards open and become filled with smoke. As the temperatures go down, the smoke becomes trapped within the boards. By thermal fogging, your chosen fire damage cleanup company reopens the pores to deodorize the stench.     

To properly deodorize and restore your damaged home, have a go-to company to call whenever these emergencies happen. This way, you can contact them faster to handle the fire damage. For your fire damage cleanup needs, contact SERVPRO today!

Fire Pit Safety Tips

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

Summer is truly here in New York and that can typically mean enjoying fire pits in the backyard. Many of us are looking forward to spending time gathering around them to enjoy time with family and friends. Before you start dreaming of movies on the lawn, moonlit nights, and s’mores, take a moment to check out some of these tips from Allstate to remember.

Backyard Fire Pit Safety Tips:

• Whether you prefer a built-in or portable fire pit, choose one that is not too large for the area. The pit should be a minimum of 10 feet away from any structures or combustible materials as well as away from trees, fences, sheds, power lines, and telephone wires.
• Make certain that the seating area is large enough and properly placed for comfort and ventilation.
• Check wind direction before lighting a fire.
• Don’t use flammable fluids (gasoline, lighter fluid, etc.) to light or relight fires.
• To start the fire, use a lighter to ignite crumpled pieces of paper covered with small sticks. Then, add larger sticks and a log or two to keep it burning. 
• Burn only dry material. Damp material will create excess smoke. 
• Don’t wear flammable clothing (like nylon) or any loose-fitting clothing.
• Never leave the fire unattended and keep pets and children far away from the fire as they will be attracted to it.
• Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose, or bucket of water nearby.
• As the fire dies down, use a shovel, and spread out the ashes to allow them to cool down. Then slowly pour water over those ashes and watch them closely to be sure that no burning embers remain or reignite. Put the cooled ashes in a specially designated ash storage metal can. 

One Cleanup and Restoration Team Is Best for Full Fire Damage Recovery

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

When your property is affected by fire and soot, it's crucial that recovery and restoration work begin immediately to lessen the fire damage. Within a short period of time, the acidic qualities of soot and the penetrating qualities of smoke can leave permanent scarring. An experienced fire mitigation team quickly and thoroughly puts a stop to damage and completes the recovery process to get your company back into business.

Long-Term Fire Damage Begins With Initial Cleanup

One of the best reasons to work with fire cleanup and reconstruction experts for your full recovery is that lasting results begin as soon as the fire department leaves. The smoke and soot particles left in the air penetrate quickly into surfaces. Water from the fire department hoses is rapidly absorbed into carpeting, fabrics, wood, and structural elements. Technicians working toward full recovery perform many actions during their first trips to your property:

• Board up the building to prevent secondary damage and to improve security.
• Assess structural damage and stabilize the property as necessary.
• Determine what can be saved, cleaned, refurbished, and restored.
• Document damages for the insurance adjuster.
• Provide an estimate of the project, the costs, and the time frame.
• Discard unsalvageable items and store other belongings.

These initial steps provide an environment where the rest of the recovery process can be undertaken safely and efficiently.

Specialized Equipment Removes Smoke Damage

The main goal of the fire damage cleanup and recovery team is restoring your property and getting you back to work. Specialized scrubbers are used to eliminate smoke odors and soot stains. These tools are used on exterior and interior surfaces, including walls, ceilings, windows, patios, and sidewalks. Inside your building, cleansers and sanitizers are used to treat the same surfaces, as well as floors, the basement, and furnishings. Professional equipment, including ozone machines, are used to neutralize lingering particles and odors.

Water Damage Is Addressed Through Ventilation and Powerful Cleansers

Of course, there's a significant risk of water damage, so professionals must also get to work removing water from the building. This involves shutting off electricity, testing the integrity of structural elements, and monitoring levels of humidity. With high-powered fans and dehumidifiers, technicians dry the building and remove floating contaminants.

Progress Moves Forward Without Delays

When multiple recovery companies are hired to aid in the recovery of your property, there's a risk that mold growth will go unnoticed. Mold prevention begins with the tarping and boarding step, right after the fire department has left. This step continues as water-logged furnishings are removed from the building and as ventilation throughout the property is increased. During water extraction, further steps are taken to neutralize and remove any remaining mold particles.

A Speedy Recovery Matters

Recovering from fire damage doesn't have to take a long time. When you choose one experienced restoration team, each step is completed smoothly and without unnecessary delays. Each point of the process moves forward seamlessly. When a speedy recovery is essential to your company, contact a cleanup and restoration crew to see you through from beginning to end.

Fire Restoration and Cleanup in Saratoga

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Fire Restoration, Cleanup, and Repairs in Saratoga

Even a small fire in your Saratoga home can cause extensive damage. The fire causes damage. Water and chemicals are used to quell the blaze that also causes damage. In addition, smoke residues and odors may extend throughout the entire home or commercial building. Many clients assume everything must be replaced!

SERVPRO provides fire restoration services to our clients in Saratoga Springs and the surrounding areas. Our team is available to respond 24/7. We believe a great deal of secondary damage can be mitigated if our team members begin the cleanup as soon as the fire department leaves the site. Removal of fire-damaged materials reduces the odor. Fast removal of water and chemicals minimizes the opportunity for porous materials to absorb moisture, swell and become permanently damaged.

One of our team managers assesses the situation and identifies those items that can be cleaned and restored vs. those that must be removed and replaced. Our emphasis is on removing the soot, and cleaning. Our smoke residue experts review the following characteristics to help in deciding what can be cleaned and restored vs. replaced:

• Locate the residues relative to the location of the fire.
• Determine the type of residues – oily, light, fluffy, etc.
• Surface type – porous and non-porous, fabrics, etc.
• Cleaning process – We use different cleaning processes based on residue, surface, and concentration. These processes include:

• Temperature application
• Agitation
• Chemical action
• Dwell time

We use all of these different cleaning approaches in many fire situations. We base the decision on the type of fire, the material burned, the distribution of smoke residues and odors to the rest of the dwelling. Let the experts at SERVPRO restore your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort and nearby areas for assistance with fire restoration. We can help 24/7. Call (518) 580-1111.

Why do Saratoga Homeowners Trust SERVPRO for Fire Damage Restoration?

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

Hiring SERVPRO for Fire Damage Restoration Can Save Saratoga Residents Time and Money

Cleaning and restoration after fire damage is a complex task that requires expertise and professional tools. SERVPRO uses various cleaning techniques during fire damage restoration of your Saratoga home, depending on the type of surface involved. The goal is to restore the structure to a preloss condition as quickly as possible. 

Before the fire damage restoration of your Saratoga home can begin, the SERVPRO techs categorize the affected materials into the following categories-

• Washable: These materials can be wet cleaned, and the application of a water-based cleaning product does not damage them.
• Non-washable: These are materials that can't be wet cleaned. The application of a water-based cleaning agent might cause damage to such materials. 

How do SERVPRO Techs Use Soda Blasting During House Fire Cleanup in Saratoga?

Soda blasting is an abrasion cleaning technique that SERVPRO techs sometimes use to remove soot and smoke particles from your fire-damaged home in Saratoga. The method involves propelling baking soda crystals (Sodium bicarbonate) against a fire-damaged surface with the help of equipment called a soda blaster. As the crystals impact the surface, they shatter, dislodging the smoke and soot particles in the process. 

Soda blasting is a safe process that does not involve harsh cleaning agents and chemicals that might cause damage to the surfaces. It is a quick process that is highly effective in cleaning smoke and soot residues from various surfaces, including metal, concrete, and wood. 

Another potential advantage of soda blasting is that the soda blast media (sodium bicarbonate) used during the process can also absorb odor-causing particles and help in the deodorization process.

Call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 580-1111. We are available round-the-clock to help you with any size disaster.

Can Fire Damage Affect a Saratoga Home’s HVAC?

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Fire Remediation Includes Duct Cleaning, Repair, and Restoration in Saratoga

After a home structure fire, Saratoga residents may be more focused on the immediately visible damages to walls, floors, and contents than on their ventilation systems. However, smoke residues travel through vents and settle inside ducts, where they can spread malodors and affect indoor air quality. This issue is compounded by fire suppression with water, which can eventually create conditions for mold growth and turn soot acidic, which can corrode metals.

SERVPRO fire damage technicians in Saratoga are equipped to mitigate smoke residues and soil moisture from fire suppression. Remediation services are performed to return the property to a clean, pre-fire condition and include necessary structural repairs.

How Smoke and Soot Damage Impact Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality

Even small-scale home fires can leave smoke residues and other burnt particles in ventilation systems. These contaminants can affect ventilation in the following ways:

• Smoke particles stick to ductwork, which can accumulate dust and other contaminants that impact air quality and odors
• Soot odors and particles can get recirculated throughout the home, spreading odors and residues. This accumulation can also damage air ducts and impact their ability to circulate air effectively
• Soot also collects in air filters and clogs them up quickly, which impacts HVAC performance
• If water extinguished the fire, this moisture could make soot acidic. This acid can corrode metals or etch into ceramics and glass and can also impact indoor air quality

HVAC is especially likely to need thorough cleaning if it was operating when the fire happened. The return air vents, in particular, are likely to have the most contamination. Even passive air movement after a fire can help spread soot and smoke odors throughout the property. In cases of more severe contamination, portions of the ductwork may require sealing during cleanup.

SERVPRO’s Ductwork Cleaning Process Post-Fire Damage

Fire restoration techs at SERVPRO can inspect and clean HVAC systems. Duct cleaning is not typically necessary with lighter damages. In moderate to heavy fire damage situations, ventilation is also often affected. This step is essential to prevent smoke and soot from recirculating in a restored property after completing other cleanup tasks.

HVAC inspection includes the examination of such parts as:

• Filters 
• The cooling coil
• Mixing boxes
• Dampers
• Turning vanes

The materials the ducts are made of also matters. Flex duct, for example, is typically more cost-effective to replace than repair due to the number of pleats in the material that can entrap soot. Sheet metal and duct board, meanwhile, are often salvageable. If there is insulation around the vents, this may also necessitate removal as it can carry odors. Its efficacy also diminishes after fire exposure.

SERVPRO professionals can clean vent registers and intakes, and reusable filters. HEPA-filter vacuums remove loose soot and debris from vents. Techs can wash duct surfaces with an EPA-registered detergent solution for more in-depth cleaning. HVAC cleanup includes the restoration of soot-covered mechanical components where needed.

After cleaning, technicians place cheesecloth over ventilation outlets before fogging the ducts. An ultra-low volume (ULV) fogger can deploy duct sealers and deodorizers with the help of the plenum and central blower. After deodorizing, technicians run the central blower until the interior is dry before replacing vent covers and deploying odor counteractant beads to decrease malodors further.

When homeowners need service that makes a disaster seem “Like it never even happened,” they can call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 580-1111.

Clothes Dryer Safety Tips to Prevent Fires

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Keep Your Home Safe From a Dryer Fire

Clothes dryers are involved in thousands of house fires each year, and the highest number of these occurs in fall and winter. The majority of these fires start because the dryer is not cleaned and maintained properly. Luckily, there are some simple tips available to help keep your home safe from a dryer fire.

1. Installation

Using the correct electrical outlet and plug to hook up your dryer is essential. To ensure that installation is completed properly and safely, consider calling a professional to connect your dryer. Like all electrical appliances, dryers come with warnings and instructions from the manufacturers, and you should read over these carefully.

2. Cleaning

The lint trap should be cleaned between all loads of laundry. The back of the dryer should also be cleared, as lint can build up in this area. Every few months, the vent pipe or exhaust should be emptied using a plumber’s snake in order to avoid a lint fire.

3. Proper Use

Using your dryer properly can also protect your home from a dryer fire. Avoid overloading your dryer with too much clothing at once. Do not dry items with rubber, foam, or plastic, such as bathroom mats with rubber backing. Never place clothing with oil, gas, alcohol, or any other flammable chemical in your dryer. Always turn the dryer off before going to bed or leaving your residence.

4. Maintenance

Routinely inspect equipment parts, such as the venting system, to ensure that there is no damage or build-up of lint. Keep the area around the dryer clean and free of anything flammable. Check outside venting for blockages, such as birds' nests. Unplug or disconnect the dryer if you will be away for an extended period.

A dryer or lint fire is almost completely preventable, but homeowners must take proper precautions. If your residence has been damaged in a dryer fire, don’t hesitate to reach out to a fire restoration service today.

Electric Heater Safety-Preventing a Fire

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

It is that time of year again when we pull out our space/electric heaters for added warmth. It's important to be cautious when using these devices though, so as to not start a fire in your home or business. We want you to be happy and safe this winter so here are a few simple safety tips while using an electric heater:

1. Only plug these heaters directly into a wall outlet. Do NOT use: extension cords, surge protectors, plug timers or G.F.C.I outlets.

2. Keep the heater on the floor, preferably not a rugged floor. Putting it on any furniture, table or other fixture increases the risk of it falling over or overheating possibly causing a fire.

3. Make sure the heater is always 3 feet away from any flammable object. This includes furniture, papers, curtains, pillows/bedding and even paint that is potentially flammable.

4. Though this happens way too often; Do NOT leave your heater on when no one is home. Consider this especially if you have pets that could possibly knock the heater over causing it to catch fire while you are out.

My Saratoga House Smells Like Smoke, What Can I Do?

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort Can Help You Remove the Smell of Fire Damage!

One of the worst feelings a Saratoga homeowner can face is the aftermath of fire damage. You may feel hopeless and like you have lost so much, but never give up. There is help nearby, and the damage may not be as bad as it seems.

Imagine a scenario where, after extensive fire damage restoration, your Saratoga home finally looks like it did before everything happened. However, what can you do if it still smells like smoke, even weeks later? Sometimes restorations are not as thorough as they should be but don't worry. We're here for you at SERVPRO.

Why Does My House Still Smell Like Fire?

The malodor of burning plastics, wood, and other materials can linger in the air for weeks after a fire, and it could happen because:

• The malodor was not dealt with on a particle level, using advanced equipment
• Putrid smells linger behind on the walls, and sealant paint is needed
• Bits of greasy soot may have been missed, trapping the odor

Here at SERVPRO, we're committed to removing all the signs of fire damage that we can. It is always our goal to leave your home feeling like it did before the fire happened. Our Institution of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration-certified technicians can identify problem areas and use advanced equipment to remediate the damage.

What Can SERVPRO Do That The Previous Company Didn't?

Our technicians have access to advanced equipment that can help reduce and remove lingering odors. We can:

• Use hydroxyl generators to eliminate volatile organic compounds from the air
• Use thermal foggers to trap scent-causing particles and neutralize them
• Set up air scrubbers with HEPA filters to filter the malodor out of the particles in the air and trap them
• Use sealant paints

Here at SERVPRO, we want to help you make your home feel like it did before the fire.

If your home still smells like fire damage even weeks later, give us a call today! Dial (518) 580-1111 to speak with a representative of SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort. We're ready to help.

Top 3 causes of Electrical Fires

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

When living in Saratoga Springs, NY, we want you to make sure you know what electrical fires are and the top causes for them, so you can protect your home in the future.

Cords and Electrical circuit overloads

The most common one is cords and electrical circuit overloads. It is common to have many cord strips around the house and most of those cord strips have all 5-6 outlets with a cord plugged into them. This is why it is important to make the effort to never overload your outlets.

Light fixture

Another cause is lighting fixtures, both caused by the light bulb or by items near the light fixture. One thing that causes light bulb fires is when you install the wrong light bulb or watt size. The other cause is when putting materials such as fabrics or cloth near a lamp causing overheating.

Space heaters

As we roll into winter, many people have a space heater they use in their Saratoga home. Be conscious of where you place your space heater and watch its surroundings, also make sure the cord isn't plugged into a cord strip as well.

5 Ways To Eliminate Smoke Odor

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Ozone machines can remove smoke odor quickly.

Smoke Cleaning Methods

Smoke odors are persistent. Methods such as air filtration, ventilation, or wiping residue off of surfaces are not likely to be sufficient. Particles of smoke drift into air ducts, nooks and crannies, and porous materials such as carpeting, drapery, and furniture. The only way to completely eliminate smoke odor is to permanently neutralize the presence of these particles. Here are five smoke cleaning methods suitable for smoke damage restoration.

1. Ozone Machines

Ozone machines release molecules that follow the same path as smoke particles and oxidize these sources of odor. This method is popular because it works quickly, but all occupants, pets, and plants must be temporarily evacuated.

2. Hydroxyl Generators

Hydroxyl generators destroy smoke particles with radicals generated by ultraviolet light. This method does not require evacuation, but may take anywhere from three to five times as long as an ozone machine.

3. HVAC Air Scrubbers

These scrubbers connect to the central air system to circulate air and filter out smoke particles. As these systems do not neutralize odor molecules, a faint smoke odor may linger. Some odor mitigation professionals may combine an air scrubber with another smoke cleaning method.

4. Thermal Foggers

Thermal foggers fill a home with fog for approximately 30 minutes before the residence is ventilated and allowed to dry. This highly effective odor elimination method also calls for evacuation and workers must wear respirators.

5. Vapor Modification

Vapor modification neutralizes odors by dispersing an aromatic compound in a mineral oil base with the assistance of a blower or fan. There is no need to evacuate during this treatment.

Out of these five methods, only two – ozone machines and thermal foggers – require evacuation. The other three methods can be pursued while you remain at home. A smoke cleaning service can work with you to determine which treatment options are right for a residence in Saratoga Springs, NY.

Fire Restoration for Your Saratoga Springs Home

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Get Professional Fire Damage Cleanup in Saratoga Springs for Items that Require Special Care

House fires are destructive and can start because of faulty electrical wiring or equipment. Even after extinguishing a fire, damage to your property and possessions continues. It is therefore, critical to prevent further destruction by calling professionals who have expertise in dealing with smoke, soot, and odor.

You can call SERVPRO to assist you in cleaning up your fire damaged residence. We can assess the destruction that the flames, smoke, soot, or water has caused. Once we determine the amount of damage, we can come up with an estimate for cleaning up and restoring your house. A fire can ruin your home in many ways, including the following:

· Smoke may discolor the walls in a few minutes.

· Finishes on kitchen appliances may discolor within a few hours.

· Smoke can tarnish metal or cause etching in the glass after a short time.

· Smoke and ash can continue causing corrosion to materials the flames did not ruin.

Our technicians can remove smoke, soot, ash, and other residues that could have built up on different surfaces before they spread. We can also use deodorization products to remove unpleasant odors from curtains, carpets, and upholstered furniture. During the cleanup process, some items such as clothes, toys, jewelry, and food require special care. We use special cleaning procedures when cleaning such things.

Most clothes are made of artificial fibers and therefore smoke odor molecules, and smoke particles can bond with fabrics if you do not clean them quickly. To organize garment restoration, we recommend that you make three groups of clothes, namely:

· The clothes you need immediately

· The clothes you need at a later date

· Seasonal clothes

We inventory clothes before removing them from the fire damaged worksite. We take multiple steps to clean and deodorize clothing items, including removing them from metal hangers to prevent oxidization, eliminating loose, dry residues from fabrics, and spraying the garments with solvent-based odor counteracts.

When restoring toys, we do our best to ensure that we return them to a condition that is safe for children to play with them. We clean and sanitize toys, and if we have any doubts about their safety, we dispose of them.

The flames and heat of a fire can ruin foods, making them unsafe to consume. Our technicians dispose of food items that heat damage or smoke particles have ruined. We also evaluate canned foods to determine if they were too close to smoke and heat. We recommend disposing of food items that have discolored or scorched labels after you have inventoried them. Our SERVPRO technicians can also help you file your insurance claim using our contents claim inventory service (CCIS). The process involves identifying the salvageable and unsalvageable items and showing their value for easier settlements.

If you need fire damage cleanup services for items requiring special care, call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort at (518) 580-1111. We are dedicated to professionalism and can meet your needs in Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort, and neighboring areas. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How to Prevent Fires in Your Gansevoort Home

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

In the United States, it is reported that a home fire is put on record every 24 seconds according to the NFPA.

Smoke alarms are a great tool for house fire prevention, but they are not the only way to lessen your risk.

The Numbers Behind House Fires

In the United States, it is reported that a home fire is put on record every 24 seconds according to the NFPA. That works out to nearly 8,600 house fires a day.

Though the vast majority of house fires are cooking-related, malfunctioning appliances, frayed wiring or cords, and carelessness with open flames are also often to blame. Because fires spread rapidly and can quickly consume an entire home, it is essential to be vigilant in prevention for the safety of your household.

House Fire Prevention Tips

Being proactive is the best defense against house fires. By keeping these fire prevention tips in mind, you can minimize your risk and keep your family and home safer:

Maintain smoke detectors. Maintain your smoke detectors by testing them once a month and replacing them every 10 years.

Clean the dryer. After each load of laundry is dried, make a point to clear the  lint from the tray. Lint build up can become a fire hazard when the dryer is warming up.

Keep an eye on open flames. Fires can start and spread faster than you think, which is why it is never wise to leave the room when there is an open flame. Whether it is a candle, cooking flame or fireplace, always keep an eye on them.

Maintain electrical cords. Cords and electrical wires should be checked often for frayed spots and immediately replaced if they are present. Never run electrical cords under rugs or behind furniture, as they can produce heat and catch fire.

Read product labels. Chemicals in household products can be highly flammable, and so can products that come in aerosol cans. Keep these away from sunlight or heat sources.

If your home has suffered damage from a house fire, give us a call. We are certified in fire and soot remediation, and here to help ²⁴⁄₇.

SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort 518-580-1111

Sorting Through Fire Damage in a Saratoga Home is Overwhelming

12/4/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO’s Fire Restoration Team Serves Saratoga Springs Area Homeowners

Keeping your home in Saratoga in good shape requires vigilance and fixing problems before they escalate. It is even more important when fire damage is involved, as the soot and debris left behind can cause bigger issues if left unattended. When an emergency requires a professional team that understands the impact of fire damage, making the call as quickly as possible is essential.

The call to make in Saratoga Springs for fire damage restoration is to our SERVPRO offices. Available around the clock, we dispatch our staff as soon as possible and begin an assessment of fire damage, along with plans for fire and smoke damage restoration. From the get-go, we coordinate with relevant parties to protect the safety of all involved and avoid cross-contamination throughout the home.

Our SERVPRO clients often worry about replacing furniture, carpets, and personal items at a sizable cost. Our staff helps guide you through the process and focuses on mitigating your loss. Even though some things may be a total loss, we may be able to restore others by applying the latest techniques available to the fire damage restoration industry.  

Homeowners frequently toss items because they smell smoke. Before taking that step, let our staff use deodorizing tools such as-

• Air scrubbers
• Ozone generators
• Charcoal-activated HEPA filters

Along with traditional odor counteractant pellets and deodorizing solutions, the above help neutralize and eliminate the stench left behind by the flames.

SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs/Gansevoort is just a phone call away. Reach us at (518) 580-1111 and let our staff work diligently to leave your home “Like it never even happened.”

The Essential Tools of Professional Smoke Cleaning

11/13/2021 (Permalink)

The Essential Tools of Professional Smoke Cleaning

If your home in Saratoga Springs, requires smoke cleaning, it is critical that the job is performed professionally. The smells of smoke are notoriously difficult to remove. They bind with fabrics and other materials and can persist for months. A company that takes shortcuts might use techniques that only mask the odors; inevitably, the unpleasant smoke odor will return, often in as little as a few days. True experts in deodorization use the best practices established by the cleaning and restoration industry. Technicians have specialized training that helps them identify and eliminate offensive smells in your home.

Specialized Equipment for Smoke Cleaning
In addition to effective and safe cleaning agents, a smoke remediation company has access to some powerful tools. The following state-of-the-art devices for combating odors are often used after a fire or in other cases of smoke saturation:

• Air filtration devices
• Ozone machines
• Thermal foggers

An odor control technician understands the science behind persistent smells and can therefore utilize the most effective techniques and equipment. The right actions can remove smoke damage and odors without a trace. An upholstery and fabric cleaning technician specialize in removing smells from carpeting, curtains, furniture and clothing.

A Proven Process for Fire Restoration
After a fire, it is important to act quickly to minimize damage and expenses to your home. A professional team such as SERVPRO will arrive Faster to Any Size Disaster. Workers will begin an inspection and damage assessment and then move on to the most pressing issues. If needed, they will engage in water removal and drying, and then proceed with the removal of soot and smoke from all surfaces. This will be followed by cleaning and repair and then the restoration of damaged areas. Smoke cleaning is a vital step to getting your home back in good condition again. When done correctly, the smoke smells will not return.

Fire Preparedness

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

You hope to never experience a fire in your Saratoga Springs, NY, workplace, but the knowledge and preparation can give you peace of mind.

You probably remember being in school and going through periodic drills to get ready for the possibility of a fire. The information and practice are valuable. As a business leader, holding fire drills is a good idea. You hope to never experience a fire in your Saratoga Springs, NY, workplace, but the knowledge and preparation can give you peace of mind.

Map Out The Building

Regardless of the size of your office, you and everyone at work need to be aware of the layout and design. Study the map and determine the most effective and the safest exit routes from every floor and from every portion of the facility during an emergency.

Assign Roles

A fire drill should definitely not be a free-for-all where everyone rushes out of the building without order. There are critical responsibilities that people should play in this scenario. These include the following:

1. Team lead or floor warden, who is responsible for making sure everyone gets out safely
2. Communication specialist, who can teach employees about the drill steps and what to do in an emergency
3. Design specialist, who can come up with the physical or digital representation of the escape route and meeting place.

Talk About It

Before having a drill, it is essential that all employees in the organization understand what will take place and what they will do once it begins. In groups meetings or in a company gathering, discuss the critical components of your drill, including where to meet and the importance of leaving promptly but calmly.

Practice

Have a drill at least once a year. This will benefit newer employees and refresh the memories of more seasoned workers. Afterward, discuss with the group what went well and what improvements are necessary.

Practice makes perfect, but even after doing all of these things, a fire can still happen. If it does, call the experts at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 508-1111.  We will make it, "Like it never even happened."

Fire Alarms

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

Your property should be outfitted with multiple alarms so that you are made immediately aware if there is a fire.

When a fire starts in your commercial or residential property time is not on your side. You only have so much time to leave the premises and call for help. Every second counts. If you encounter a fire, you will be thankful to have a fire alarm that gives you a head start. Your property should be outfitted with multiple alarms so that you are made immediately aware of the situation, no matter where the fire begins.

How Many Alarms Do You Need

There is no exact number of alarms to have on hand, as everything depends on the size and layout of your property. In general, it is recommended that you have at least one alarm on each floor. You are also advised to place alarms inside or nearby the following rooms:

Residential

1. Bedrooms
2. Basements
3. Garages
4. Attics

Commercial

1. Inside office rooms
2. In hallways
3. On every floor

It is not possible to have too many alarms, and it is far better to ensure that your property is highly protected in order to avoid the devastating effects of fire. The sooner you know about a fire, the more quickly you can get assistance and avoid severe fire damage. 

What Should I Do After a Fire

Though alarms are an important source of protection, they cannot always keep your property free of fire or smoke damage. If your commercial or residential property is severely damaged after a fire, then a professional fire restoration team can make repairs and even remove smoke smells from your carpet. 

Having smoke and fire alarms is necessary, but the reality is, even after doing all of these things, a fire can still happen. If it does, call the experts at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 508-1111.  We will make it, "Like it never even happened." 

How To Safely Put Out A Grease Fire

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

A grease fire is one of the most concerning types of fires you could encounter at home.

While it's true that a fire can start anywhere in your home, the kitchen is one of the most common places. There are a lot of hazards in this room, so you need to be cautious when you're cooking on the stove or using the oven. A grease fire is one of the most concerning types of fires you could encounter at home. Extinguishing these fires is not the same as most kinds.

What Causes Grease Fires?

If you're like most people, you probably use your fair share of cooking oil on the stove. Whether it's frying up bacon or sausage for breakfast or grilling up something else delicious on the stove or griddle, you may frequently contend with grease. The common reasons a grease fire may start include:

• Putting too much oil in the pan
• Leaving the room while something is frying or grilling on the stove
• Leaving panhandles away from the stove where other people can bump into them
  
  

Smother It Quickly

If a grease fire starts in the kitchen, don't panic. Your first job is to smother the flames and remove the fire's oxygen source. You can do this by grabbing a metal lid and covering the pan or burner.

Remove The Heat

You need to next kill the heat source. Turn off the stove or unplug the electric griddle.

Try Some Baking Soda

If the fire is still going, dump a liberal amount of baking soda on the flames. This should do enough to smother the flames and control the fire. It may require some fire cleanup, but you can control the damage.

What NOT To Do

Your first reaction to putting out a fire may be to dump water on the source. With grease, this won't work; it will only spread the flames. Never put water on these types of fires.

By following these pointers, you can stay away from these disasters. 

We Are Here For You

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort have specialized training and experience in fire restoration services. Call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at (518) 580-1111 if fire damage strikes your property. We will make it "Like it never even happened."

After A Fire Fix Your Roof First

7/25/2021 (Permalink)

Calling a fire damage and restoration expert that is Faster to Any Size Disaster is the first step in ensuring speedy and professional repairs!

The aftermath of even a small or partial-loss fire at your residential or commercial property can have lingering effects. While the first concern may be the fire cleanup, the potential for further issues to occur should also be a top priority if the roof was damaged. As you wait for the roof repair to take place, leaving it exposed means opening the building up to potential problems.

Roof Damage Woes

Fire cleanup doesn’t happen overnight. Calling a fire damage and restoration expert that is Faster to Any Size Disaster is the first step in ensuring speedy and professional repairs. In the interim, whether the hole was caused by the fire, or firefighters had to create an opening for ventilation, it leaves the structure vulnerable to non-fire losses or worries:

1. Cost – The longer the roof is exposed, the higher the potential for further environmental damage that can quickly increase repair costs.
2. Vandalism – While it depends on the extent of the roof destruction, the gap could create an access point for vandals or thieves.
3. Pests – Animals and insects can easily find their way in through the smallest spaces.
4. Safety – If the damage isn’t severe, you may be able to continue operating out of the business structure, but that could mean a potential safety hazard for anyone in the building.

Temporary Covering

Although not a permanent fix, using a tarp is an ideal way to minimize secondary damage or other issues. An expert will properly affix boards and tarps to keep debris and precipitation from entering through the ruined areas. Regardless of the type of roof, they will have the know-how to securely seal off entry points and create an insulation barrier to help minimize costly repairs while determining whether the roof needs to be fixed or replaced.

We Are Here For You

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort have specialized training and experience in fire restoration services. Call us at (518) 508-1111 if fire damage strikes your property. We will make it "Like it never even happened."

The Behavior of Smoke

7/3/2021 (Permalink)

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior of smoke.

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior of smoke. There are two different types of smoke: wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire.

The professionals of SERVPRO® of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, the professionals of SERVPRO® of Worcester will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and its contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows your local SERVPRO® of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort professionals to focus on saving your precious items.

Our professionals know smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following points are additional facts you may not know about smoke.

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

Types of Smoke

• Wet Smoke. (Plastic and Rubber) Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, and smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

• Dry Smoke. (Paper and Wood) Fast-burning, high temperatures; heat rises, therefore smoke rises.

• Protein Fire Residue. (Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire) Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

• Fuel Oil Soot. (Furnace puff backs) While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners,

• Other Types. (Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue) Special loss situations require special care.

The professionals of SERVPRO® of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort are trained to handle even the toughest of losses and can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact us to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

5 Common Causes of Fires (and How to Prevent Them)

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

It's important to remember that fires are preventable so long as you know the risks!

Hundreds of thousands of fires each year destroy homes, cause harm and disrupt people's lives. Most of them are preventable.

Cooking Fires

Cooking is the number one cause of preventable home fires! You should not cook when you're tired, if it's the middle of the night, or if you just got home from a late night. If you do cook under any of these circumstances, you need to be extra careful.

You also should not cook while you're drinking, especially if you've been drinking more than one or two glasses of wine, because your full attention won’t be where it needs to be and can lead to something dangerous. 

Oftentimes in the event of a grease fire, the first instinct is going to be to get some water to put the fire out. Do not do this - this may cause the grease to splatter and can cause the fire to spread. Instead of that, cover the fire with a pan. Starved of oxygen, it will go out on its own. You can also use baking soda on some occasions.

However, if the fire becomes too much to handle or out of control and you start to get worried for your own safety, get out as quickly as possible and call 9-1-1! 

Heating Fires

Of course, in the winter, you need to keep your home warm, especially in Saratoga Springs. But heating elements like fireplaces or space heaters can be major causes of residential and commercial fires.

You should keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from that heating source. You should also turn the heater off when you're leaving the room or if you're going to sleep. While it’s always nice to go to bed toasty, it's not safe to do so!

Electrical Fires

Electrical fires are also all too common, but they can be avoided with a bit of common sense.

You should only plug in one heat-producing appliance at a time. For major appliances like refrigerators, plug those directly into outlets - don't use extension cords or power strips. Finally, use light bulbs with the right number of watts. Those watts are listed on the sticker on the side in most cases

Smoking Fires

Smoking is less common than it used to be, but it's still a major cause of preventable fires. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, over 17,000 home fires per year were caused by smoking.

Store cigarettes and lighters high up or in locked cabinets so children cannot access them.

Put out your cigarette in a deep sturdy ash tray when you're done. Make sure it's away from anything that could burn.

Candle Fires

Candles can be a major cause of home fires, causing over 7,000 fires per year, especially over the holidays. You should ensure that candles are at least one foot away from anything that could possibly burn. Finally, blow your candles out before you leave the room or go to bed. Everybody likes a bit of ambiance, but it's not safe.

It's important to remember that fires are preventable so long as you know the risks. Still, it's important to be prepared for the worst case scenario, so take a look at developing an emergency response plan. And remember if you do have a fire, call SERVPRO of Saratoga Springs, Gansevoort at 518-580-1111.