Understanding the Common Reality of House Fires | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

8/2/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties is ready to help you have a fire-safe summer season with these helpful tips!

House fires are a significant concern for homeowners, especially in our part of Alabama. Understanding the common causes and preventive measures is essential for ensuring the safety of your home and family. In this blog, we will explore the reality of house fires, when they most commonly occur in our region, and how you can effectively prevent them.

Grill with Confidence: Outdoor Fire Safety Tips | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

6/3/2024 (Permalink)

Don't forget about fire safety! Follow these tips from SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties to ensure a fun, safe night.

Winter Fire Safety Basics | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

Fire safety is a top priority for us at SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties this winter. Keep your home safe with these helpful tips!

As winter fully sets in, it gives us the perfect excuse to curl up under a blanket and wear all the fuzzy clothes we want. Even if you aren’t a fan of the cold season, there is nothing quite as relaxing as a crackling fire in the fireplace and a warm home.

While it may be comforting, keeping our homes nice and toasty also leaves us vulnerable to potential house fires. The number of fires rises dramatically during the winter, with many of them due to the improper use of heating equipment. This doesn’t mean you can’t sit back and enjoy the glow of a fire. With a few simple safety steps, you can stay cozy all season.

The Holidays Are Holly, Safe and Jolly | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

Fire damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties on the case!

The holidays have arrived once again! No matter how you celebrate, or even when you celebrate, there is bound to be some pretty good foods involved at your gatherings. Whether you are the cook or your family and friends have politely asked you to never enter a kitchen again, the more safety you can put into your celebrations, the safer your home will stay.

The number of house fires that occur always rises during the holiday season, and a surprising amount of them start in the kitchen. Stay safe celebrating and enjoy every bit of delicious food cooked simply by adding a few safety measures to your holiday season.

Using Your Grill Safely | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Have you had a barbeque gone wrong? Call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties to get your space back in shape.

Oh, sweet summer. Is there anything better? Even if you dread the Alabama humidity, you have to appreciate the bountiful gardens and lush green atmosphere the lazy days of summer brings. Summer is also the perfect time to cook outdoors, throwing some burgers on the grill while you watch the kids run through the sprinkler.

Grilling is a pretty common thing to do here in Talladega, but it can also create a dangerous situation rather quickly. Grills are a leading cause of fire in the summer season, and it is almost always because of improper use that the fire begins in the first place. SERVPRO® of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties is here to make sure you can enjoy every moment of the summer sun without worry.

What to Do and What to Not Do With Your Outdoor Fire | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Bonfire season is upon us! SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.

It may still be pretty scorching outside, but fall is close at hand. It won’t be that long until the wind blows colder and there are colorful, crunchy leaves everywhere. Fall is so much more than pumpkin season; it is a time to take things slower and enjoy family and friends.

With cooler evenings, many of us take family and friend time outdoors and gather around the fire pit. While you toast your marshmallows and share your stories, make sure you are keeping everything safe.

SERVPRO® is here for you if things ever get out of control, but we also want to make sure you know how to prevent a fire from leaving your home damaged.

Fire Safety and Kids: Making It Not Scary | SERVPRO® of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

6/12/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties is here for you and your family if you experience a fire in your home or business.

Children can be an endless source of joy. Watching them learn and grow as they experience the world with wide eyes is a great reminder for all of us to enjoy our surroundings a little more. While it is a joy to teach them gentle lessons, some things are harder concepts to share than others.

Learning how to stay safe during a fire emergency is one of those challenging lessons that is incredibly important to teach early and often.

Fires are scary no matter how old you are, but if you practice safety lessons in a comfortable and fun way, everyone can learn how to respond appropriately and keep themselves safe.

Fire, Smoke & Soot, Oh My!

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Fire, Smoke & Soot Restoration Services

• Structural Cleaning- After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. Our experienced SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will pretest to determine the extent of damage, then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your structure. Depending on the amount of soot, your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional may even be able to reduce the cost of recovery by cleaning lighter soot deposits found on some surfaces, eliminating the expense incurred with repainting or refinishing. In other cases, SERVPRO will clean to "prepare for painting." This process deodorizes and ensures the new paint will adhere properly to the surface.

• Contents Cleaning- All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. Our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. Our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can provide wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac and much more. Finally, SERVPRO can provide an inventory list of all "to be claimed" items if requested. 

• Deodorization- Our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals provide specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. Our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out the sources of the odor and remove them. If you have questions you can ask our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

Emergency Fire Damage Process Overview

ONE HOUR:

Within one hour from notice of loss, one of our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will contact you to arrange service. You'll know help is on the way!

FOUR HOURS:

Within four hours of loss notification, one of our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage.

DETAILED EXPLANATION:

One of our trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome.

PRETESTING:

Our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.

EIGHT HOURS:

Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.

CLEANING, RESTORATION & DEODORIZATION:

Our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time.

FINAL WALK-THROUGH:

After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT FIRE, SMOKE OR SOOT RESTORATION SERVICES CALL 256-378-1319 AND WE WILL BE GLAD TO HELP!

Fire & Smoke Do's & Don'ts

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Fire & Smoke Damage

                        Do:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant. 
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Wash both sides of leaves on house plants.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or of the HVAC system.

                          DON'T:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electric shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

How You Prevent Home Fires

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

Prevent a Home Fire

The best way to survive a home fire is by preventing one from occurring. Fortunately, fire preparation tasks are straightforward.


Install enough smoke alarms in your home.


Ideally, these alarms should be located inside each bedroom, on every level of the home, at least ten feet from cooking appliances, and in the halls outside of the bedrooms. Don't forget to test the alarms every month and replace the batteries on an annual basis. Make sure that family members know how to recognize the alarm and how to exit safely.


Perform home maintenance consistently and thoroughly.


Greasy buildup in burners, lint in the dryer hose, and neglected chimneys are all cause of fire damage. Many household chores and repairs, such as repairing damaged sockets, have a significant impact on fire preparation and prevention.


Store flammable items safely.


Keep gas for the lawnmower, lighter fluid, and similar products stored in a cool location and out of reach. Additionally, consider the many other potentially combustible items. Go through the cabinets and closets of your home, watching for things such as lighters, matches, chemicals, and other flammable items.


Prepare for emergency situations.


A ten-gallon can of baking soda near the cook top quickly puts out grease fires, safely and effectively. Fire extinguishers with BC or ABC rating are best. An A rating indicates that pressurized water is in the canister and that the extinguisher is not appropriate for cooking fires.


Teach Your Family Fire Safety


In addition to teaching children not to play with matches, fire safety education should include not throwing laundry over a lamp or leaving papers near heaters. The more your children are aware of how fires start, the better they'll be at avoiding them.

Fire preparation is one of the best ways to avoid fire damage and the cost of fire damage cleanup and restoration services. If you need our services call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties @ 256-378-1319. 

What To Know About Renters Insurance

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

It is true that renters insurance is like a lot of things in life: it can seem over-complicated at first, but with a little explanation it becomes more understandable. If you rent a property, obtaining insurance is a good idea whether you own a lot of valuable items or even if you do not. That's because insurance has the ability to cover you for damage caused by a fire that affects other people and their belongings. As with all types of insurance, each policy may have unique features and it is important to understand what is covered and what might be excluded.

What Is Typically Covered

In general, the primary purpose of renters insurance is to cover your contents in the case of a residential fire or other disaster. Your clothes, furniture, jewelry, paintings and books could all be rendered useless by fire damage, and insurance is designed to cover those losses. A policy that includes replacement costs will provide bigger compensation for losses, but it may also include a higher premium than a cash value policy. Other types of coverage could include the following:

• Liability coverage in case you negligently cause a fire
• Medical payment coverage to others (though this is usually limited)
• Loss of Use coverage in case you need a place to stay while the apartment is being fixed
• Fire restoration coverage by a qualified fire mitigation company
  
  

For the best insurance, it pays to check around. Get the coverage that is suited to your needs and fits your budget.

What Might Not Be Covered
In general, a fire is a fire, and with renters insurance you should be protected. If you own an item that has a high value, such as an expensive bicycle, you could need to specifically insure that item. It always is a good idea to talk at least once a year to your insurance agent to make sure your insurance is not out of date due to changes in your lifestyle.

If you need assistance call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties @ 256-378-1319.

Know The Policy

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

What happens when you are standing on your front lawn watching the fire department attempt to save your burning house? Your first thought is: is my home salvageable? Your second thought is: will the insurance company cover this? You think to yourself that you must call your agent and a reputable company that is familiar with this type of loss, which is SERVPRO. Our professionals have worked for many years to help make fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

If your home is destroyed and uninhabitable, ensure that your homeowner’s policy has a loss clause that covers living expenses. You will need living expenses while your home is being repaired or rebuilt. Many people do not know their insurance policies well enough to advocate for themselves with their insurance company. Knowledge is the best protection. Be sure that you know what you are and are not covered for before a disaster strikes.

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph counties will not only be able to restore your home, but our knowledgeable Project Managers are well-versed in insurance coverage. SERVPRO works with all insurance companies and will communicate directly with your adjuster to ensure that you are back in your own home as quickly as possible. Our PM’s will help guide you as best they can during this extremely stressful time, and our expert and compassionate crew will get you back on your feet in no time. 

The Steps For Fire Restoration

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Today 256-378-1319

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call  SERVPRO of Wyoming County/Kingston Township, which is on call 24 hours a day. Our representative will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us dispatch our team of Professionals with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Our Professionals will 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 will 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 will use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We will clean 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.

How To Prevent A Home Fire

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Prevent a Home Fire

The best way to survive a home fire is by preventing one from occurring. Fortunately, fire preparation tasks are straightforward.


Install enough smoke alarms in your home.


Ideally, these alarms should be located inside each bedroom, on every level of the home, at least ten feet from cooking appliances, and in the halls outside of the bedrooms. Don't forget to test the alarms every month and replace the batteries on an annual basis. Make sure that family members know how to recognize the alarm and how to exit safely.


Perform home maintenance consistently and thoroughly.


Greasy buildup in burners, lint in the dryer hose, and neglected chimneys are all cause of fire damage. Many household chores and repairs, such as repairing damaged sockets, have a significant impact on fire preparation and prevention.


Store flammable items safely.


Keep gas for the lawnmower, lighter fluid, and similar products stored in a cool location and out of reach. Additionally, consider the many other potentially combustible items. Go through the cabinets and closets of your home, watching for things such as lighters, matches, chemicals, and other flammable items.


Prepare for emergency situations.


A ten-gallon can of baking soda near the cook top quickly puts out grease fires, safely and effectively. Fire extinguishers with BC or ABC rating are best. An A rating indicates that pressurized water is in the canister and that the extinguisher is not appropriate for cooking fires.


Teach Your Family Fire Safety


In addition to teaching children not to play with matches, fire safety education should include not throwing laundry over a lamp or leaving papers near heaters. The more your children are aware of how fires start, the better they'll be at avoiding them.

Fire preparation is one of the best ways to avoid fire damage and the cost of fire damage cleanup and restoration services. 

What you need to know about renters insurance

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

It is true that renters insurance is like a lot of things in life: it can seem over-complicated at first, but with a little explanation it becomes more understandable. If you rent a property, obtaining insurance is a good idea whether you own a lot of valuable items or even if you do not. That's because insurance has the ability to cover you for damage caused by a fire that affects other people and their belongings. As with all types of insurance, each policy may have unique features and it is important to understand what is covered and what might be excluded.

What Is Typically Covered

In general, the primary purpose of renters insurance is to cover your contents in the case of a residential fire or other disaster. Your clothes, furniture, jewelry, paintings and books could all be rendered useless by fire damage, and insurance is designed to cover those losses. A policy that includes replacement costs will provide bigger compensation for losses, but it may also include a higher premium than a cash value policy. Other types of coverage could include the following:

• Liability coverage in case you negligently cause a fire
• Medical payment coverage to others (though this is usually limited)
• Loss of Use coverage in case you need a place to stay while the apartment is being fixed
• Fire restoration coverage by a qualified fire mitigation company
  
  

For the best insurance, it pays to check around. Get the coverage that is suited to your needs and fits your budget.

What Might Not Be Covered
In general, a fire is a fire, and with renters insurance you should be protected. If you own an item that has a high value, such as an expensive bicycle, you could need to specifically insure that item. It always is a good idea to talk at least once a year to your insurance agent to make sure your insurance is not out of date due to changes in your lifestyle.

Know Your Policy!!

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

What happens when you are standing on your front lawn watching the fire department attempt to save your burning house? Your first thought is: is my home salvageable? Your second thought is: will the insurance company cover this? You think to yourself that you must call your agent and a reputable company that is familiar with this type of loss, which is SERVPRO. Our professionals have worked for many years to help make fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

If your home is destroyed and uninhabitable, ensure that your homeowner’s policy has a loss clause that covers living expenses. You will need living expenses while your home is being repaired or rebuilt. Many people do not know their insurance policies well enough to advocate for themselves with their insurance company. Knowledge is the best protection. Be sure that you know what you are and are not covered for before a disaster strikes.

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph counties will not only be able to restore your home, but our knowledgeable Project Managers are well-versed in insurance coverage. SERVPRO works with all insurance companies and will communicate directly with your adjuster to ensure that you are back in your own home as quickly as possible. Our PM’s will help guide you as best they can during this extremely stressful time, and our expert and compassionate crew will get you back on your feet in no time. 

Steps For Fire Restoration!!

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Today 256-378-1319

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call  SERVPRO of Wyoming County/Kingston Township, which is on call 24 hours a day. Our representative will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us dispatch our team of Professionals with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Our Professionals will 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 will 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 will use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We will clean 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.

5 Home Fire Prevention Steps

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

Greasy buildup in burners are a cause of fire damage

Prevent a Home Fire

The best way to survive a home fire is by preventing one from occurring. Fortunately, fire preparation tasks are straightforward.


Install enough smoke alarms in your home.


Ideally, these alarms should be located inside each bedroom, on every level of the home, at least ten feet from cooking appliances, and in the halls outside of the bedrooms. Don't forget to test the alarms every month and replace the batteries on an annual basis. Make sure that family members know how to recognize the alarm and how to exit safely.


Perform home maintenance consistently and thoroughly.


Greasy buildup in burners, lint in the dryer hose, and neglected chimneys are all cause of fire damage. Many household chores and repairs, such as repairing damaged sockets, have a significant impact on fire preparation and prevention.


Store flammable items safely.


Keep gas for the lawnmower, lighter fluid, and similar products stored in a cool location and out of reach. Additionally, consider the many other potentially combustible items. Go through the cabinets and closets of your home, watching for things such as lighters, matches, chemicals, and other flammable items.


Prepare for emergency situations.


A ten-gallon can of baking soda near the cook top quickly puts out grease fires, safely and effectively. Fire extinguishers with BC or ABC rating are best. An A rating indicates that pressurized water is in the canister and that the extinguisher is not appropriate for cooking fires.


Teach Your Family Fire Safety


In addition to teaching children not to play with matches, fire safety education should include not throwing laundry over a lamp or leaving papers near heaters. The more your children are aware of how fires start, the better they'll be at avoiding them.

Fire preparation is one of the best ways to avoid fire damage and the cost of fire damage cleanup and restoration services. 

What you need to know about renters insurance

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

In general, a fire is a fire, and with renters insurance, you should be protected

It is true that renters insurance is like a lot of things in life: it can seem over-complicated at first, but with a little explanation it becomes more understandable. If you rent a property, obtaining insurance is a good idea whether you own a lot of valuable items or even if you do not. That's because insurance has the ability to cover you for damage caused by a fire that affects other people and their belongings. As with all types of insurance, each policy may have unique features and it is important to understand what is covered and what might be excluded.

What Is Typically Covered

In general, the primary purpose of renters insurance is to cover your contents in the case of a residential fire or other disaster. Your clothes, furniture, jewelry, paintings and books could all be rendered useless by fire damage, and insurance is designed to cover those losses. A policy that includes replacement costs will provide bigger compensation for losses, but it may also include a higher premium than a cash value policy. Other types of coverage could include the following:

• Liability coverage in case you negligently cause a fire
• Medical payment coverage to others (though this is usually limited)
• Loss of Use coverage in case you need a place to stay while the apartment is being fixed
• Fire restoration coverage by a qualified fire mitigation company
  
  

For the best insurance, it pays to check around. Get the coverage that is suited to your needs and fits your budget.

What Might Not Be Covered
In general, a fire is a fire, and with renters insurance you should be protected. If you own an item that has a high value, such as an expensive bicycle, you could need to specifically insure that item. It always is a good idea to talk at least once a year to your insurance agent to make sure your insurance is not out of date due to changes in your lifestyle.

What To Know About Fire Sprinklers and How They Work

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

Fire sprinkler system in a business

There are a number of sprinkler systems for commercial buildings out there. If your thinking about updating your fire sprinkler system at your business then there are a few things you may want to know.

There Are Different Types

When it comes to a fire suppression system there are several different types. These include

• Dry Systems
• Wet Systems
• Pre-action Systems
• Deluge Systems
• Foaming Systems.
  
  

Knowing which system is included in your business is as important as having a suppression system as they can work in several different ways.

They Can Work Several Ways

A fire sprinkler system can work in several ways depending on the system type. Most systems are heat activated and triggered when a seal around the sprinkler head melts allowing it to release suppressant over the flames. Most systems release only over the affected area while a deluge system can release across the entire installation. Depending on system type this suppressant can be water, a chemical suppressant used in areas where water could freeze, or a foam suppressant which is useful in properties that may contain highly flammable substances. Some systems can even use multiple types of suppressant. If the sprinklers to release you can contact a local fire damage restoration service for a fire sprinkler cleanup.

Placement is Important

In most cases a sprinkler system should be located up high near or on the ceiling. This is because they are heat triggered and a high location will allow them to be set off in time to suppress the fire. It’s also important to ensure that the sprinkler heads are not obstructed by beams, trusses, security cameras, lighting, fans, or anything else.
When upgrading your company's fire sprinkler system consider which type will be best for your company. Also consider where the best place to locate each sprinkler head is. Remember, if there is an emergency and the sprinklers go off, a local restoration service can help with the cleanup.

Your Guide to Fire Preparedness in the Workplace

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

If your business has experienced a fire, call SERVPRO. We provide a full service from mitigation to restoration.

When considering the risks your business might face, competition and industry-specific problems may come to mind, but it is important to consider fires as well.

Fires in commercial buildings happen quite frequently and can be dangerous, especially if the employees on-site are not prepared in advance for what to do.

To reduce your risks and make sure your business handles an emergency scenario as efficiently as possible, preparing in advance for a fire is wise. Knowing your risks, practicing evacuations and making sure everyone is aware of various fire safety measures is key to reducing your liability and making sure your business can recover quickly after a fire occurs.

Fire Preparedness in the Workplace

Follow code guidelines and inspection schedules. Your business should be up to date on fire codes set forth by the National Fire Protection Association regarding fire equipment and testing. Make sure you know when to perform your monthly tests of alarms, as well as when to work with your local fire department for more in-depth inspections.

Identify your specific risks. Every industry will have different fire risks associated with it, and it is a wise idea to assess what your specific risk profile looks like. While for some businesses, their biggest fire hazard will simply be the staff kitchen, others may have flammable chemicals or other machinery to contend with during the fire preparedness process as well.

Create (and practice) a fire evacuation plan. Identifying multiple ways to exit your building during a fire and practicing fire safety drills with your staff will ensure everyone knows exactly what to do if a fire should break out. Panic can spread through a group quickly, especially if they are unprepared for the situation, so making sure everyone knows what to do is a wise time investment as a business owner.

Have regular fire safety seminars with staff. Hosting fire safety seminars with your employees on a regular basis will also go a long way for fire preparedness. Review items such as locations of fire extinguishers, when and how to set off the fire alarm manually, and any other industry-specific knowledge that might benefit your workers and increase safety for everyone.

If your business has experienced a fire, we’re here ²⁴⁄₇ to respond and begin restoration. Call us today to learn how we can help you.

Five Ways to Avoid Kitchen Hazards

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let a disaster in your kitchen ruin your home!

Many people love to cook, especially as the holidays approach. But even seasoned chefs sometimes make costly mistakes. Here are five helpful ways to avoid kitchen hazards such as a drain clog or grease fire.

1. Keep Your Vents Clean

It’s important to keep the vent screens above your stove clean. Otherwise grease can build up on the screen and inhibit the ventilation becoming a contributing factor in a kitchen fire. The grease build-up could even make a fire worse. 

2. Don’t Leave Pans Unattended

Most cooks know never to leave a pan unattended on the stove. The pan could be knocked over, grease can splatter, or the food can be allowed to cook too long. Each of these things can be a fire hazard.

3. Don’t Put Grease Down the Drain

When you're done cooking it may be tempting to pour the hot grease down the drain. Built up grease in drain can lead to a drain clog and sink overflow. Instead the grease can be poured into a container, allowed to cool and then placed in the trash.

4. Wipe Out Greasy Pans Before Washing

Wipe out any remaining grease and food particles before washing your pans. This can help prevent buildup that may lead to a sink clog.

5. Call a Professional to Service Appliances

If you’re having problems with your stove or drain it may be time to call a professional. They will know how to fix the problem without causing a potential electrical fire. These can come from attempting to fix a broken stove or clogged dish disposal without the correct tools. If fire or flooding does occur, then a fire and water damage restoration service may be able to help.

Following these tips can help you prevent problems like a drain clog or grease fire. Never leave your stove unattended when it’s on, don’t put grease down the drain, and call a professional if your kitchen appliances need maintenance. In the event a fire or flooding does happen in your kitchen, then a restoration professional may be able to help.

Our Experts Can Remove Foul Odors From Your Home After A Fire

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

We can make the damage appear “Like it never even happened.”

Get Effective Odor Removal After Fire Damage To Your Home

One of the most complex aspects of cleaning up smoke damage after a fire in a home is removing the odors. Few products can eliminate odors completely. Most products just mask the scent for brief periods, and it can remain in the walls, upholstery, and fabric.

The odors can reoccur, especially during damp periods. To get effective odor removal after your home has sustained a fire damage it is advisable to call the professionals at SERVPRO. Our fire damage restoration experts have the experience and equipment to remove smoke odors effectively. We can assess your home and create a restoration plan based on the type of fire. Cooking-related fires can cause odors which are problematic to deal with, but we have access to specialized cleaning supplies that can eliminate the scents.

When deodorizing a structure, we consider if the odors are light, moderate or heavy. If the odor is light, our technicians begin by removing sources of the scent followed by ventilating the area. We can then use deodorant or detergent solutions to clean the surfaces that have smoke residues. Our technicians then re-ventilate the area and determine if the scents are still present. If so, we distribute the deodorizers in several phases of odor control. We thermal fog the affected areas and check for pockets of odor in wall cavities, crawl spaces and places above ceilings.

If the odors are moderate, our SERVPRO technicians can remove most of the charred debris. If it is impossible to remove the odor-causing materials, we wrap them with polythene to prevent scents from escaping into the air. We can then use a ULV fogger to saturate the remaining charred materials with odor control, water-based cinnamon to contain the odor particles. We can also clean and seal the HVAC system to remove odors. We also use these procedures to deal with severe smoke odors, but longer periods of deodorizing activity and extra steps are often necessary. We use industry-leading technology to guarantee a hundred percent odor removal.

After a fire has damaged your home, dealing with smoke odor can be challenging. Contact SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties to help you eliminate the odors. We can make the damage appear “Like it never even happened.”

How SERVPRO Restores Fire Damage in Homes

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

Advanced SERVPRO Cleanup and Restoration Equipment for Structural Recovery in Talladega, Clay and Randolph County Homes and Businesses.

What it Took To Fix Fire Damage and Odor in a Condo

Condo fires present many challenges because flames from one unit quickly send plumes of smoke all over the property even if the blaze does not spread to the other units. In Kansas City, a fire in one of the Condo units left extensive residue damage and odor in several units on the same floor and the ones above, requiring extensive action to restore normal conditions.

The management had to find a solution to fix the fire damage and odor in the condo without creating a great deal of inconvenience to the residents in different units. When our SERVPRO team arrived at the site, we prioritized actions that would limit additional damages. By boarding up the loss site, we managed to restrict the movement of people in and out of the affected areas, which would have spread debris further around the facility, increasing the space to deodorize.

Boarding up also helped assure residents in occupied units of their safety during the restoration period. Many of the exterior surfaces blackened by soot required extensive cleaning, including aggressive agitation and chemical action. Perhaps the biggest challenge would have been accessing these areas. However, our SERVPRO teams are trained in the use of elevated platforms when performing restoration tasks. We also supply our technicians with the ladders, scaffolding, and cherry pickers necessary for fulfilling the restoration tasks.

There is a tendency for soot and other smoke residues to adhere to colder, elevated areas such as ceilings and concealed areas. It was no different in this Kansas City Condo where our team had to open up walls to remove the top layers of insulation blackened by soot and clean residues from various surfaces.

After removing areas soiled by the fire, we had to perform various deodorization steps. These techniques include spraying or using ULV foggers to deliver water-based odor counteractants on contents and surfaces. We also thermal fogged to remove deeply penetrated odors from materials since the process recreates conditions almost similar to the smoke from the fire. Ventilating the area helped remove remnants of the fog and any suspended odor particles eliminating the odors from the fire, "Like it never even happened."

The effects of fire damage can have a long-term impact on a condo. Call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties at (256) 378-1319 to help perform restoration with minimal inconvenience.

Burnt More than Just Food? Call SERVPRO for Cleanup, Restoration, and Odor Control

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Box Truck Is Almost Empty As our Team Uses the Equipment to Mitigate Fire Damage to a Area Property

Stovetop fires can be quite a hassle for homeowners to clean up after. Not only are flames dangerous, but you have to deal with residues from flames, damaged items, and the extinguishing methods used. This can be overwhelming to clean up on your own, mainly because consumer-grade cleaning products are not made to handle these types of damages easily.

If your Dallas home needs fire damage mitigation after a kitchen mishap certified SERVPRO technicians can come to you within hours of your initial call and work to restore your interiors. This team is AVAILABLE 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Whether you have a fire with a Thanksgiving turkey or another mishap in the home that leads to burnt food particles leaving residues in your kitchen, SERVPRO offers industrial-grade cleaners and equipment to remove the mess and restore your items to their preloss condition.

How to Minimize Odors After a Protein Fire
Because protein residues are colorless and hard to detect, it can be challenging to get rid of them without the right help. Here are some tips to prevent the spread of odors and protein residues throughout your home:

?    Keep your hands as clean as possible. This can prevent residues from soiling porous surfaces in your residence.
?    Place old linens on surfaces vulnerable to odors. Rugs and furniture, especially in high-traffic areas, can be vulnerable to residues.
?    Limit movement around your home. This practice minimizes exposure to protein residues.
?    Avoid using packaged or canned food and drinks that may have been near the fire. Residues can contaminate or alter sealed items.
?    Avoid cleaning or doing laundry. Household cleaners are not enough to clean protein residues, and even clothing affected by protein fires requires special techniques to remove contamination fully.

SERVPRO Removes Protein Residues
Protein fires are unique because they take more thorough cleaning to remove odors. It may take several rounds of cleaning to remove residues from your kitchen altogether. Paints and sealants may need to be reapplied to eliminate odors after such an event. However, SERVPRO technicians work carefully and professionally to remove filmy proteins from surfaces. Items in your kitchen are meticulously investigated for contamination, including appliances, canned food, and other items, to minimize risk and odors.

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties is a service that you can count on to be Faster To Any Size Disaster.  You can call (256)-378-1319 for rapid disaster cleanup.

Warm Up Wisely to Avoid a Fire in Your Home or Business

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

Too much heat at your feet can cause a fire is not done properly

With the chilly weather upon us so is the potential for families and or businesses turning to heating resources they feel might be beneficial in helping to heat a home, or business.

Statically billions are spent each year, yes, each year, on damage caused by fires.  Lives are lost, and many are injured.

• In the wintertime the rural communities will utilize portable space heaters, wood stoves, and kerosene heaters.  Unfortunately, it is a common risk taken without the complete understanding of the fire potential should any of these be used improperly. With a fire, comes water used to put out the fire.  Without proper cleanup from the fire and water, comes the potential of mold.  

Below are some winter safety tips, and general fire prevention tips to help keep you, your families, and homes safe.

• Space heaters need space---keep furniture and objects away
• Electric space heaters must be plugged directly into a wall outlet---NOT AN EXTENSION CORD
• Appliances must be plugged directly into the wall outlet, not an extension cord to avoid the potential of an electrical fire. 
• NEVER use gasoline in kerosene heaters, or camp stove oil units.
• NEVER fill a heating unit when hot
• Be sure your chimney is clean before using, and that your damper is working properly
• Use an insert or heavy screen to prevent hot embers from leaving the fireplace compartment, and keep logs from rolling out
• ALWAYS allow ashes to cool before removing, and ALWAYS place ashes inside a metal container.  Always store ash containers at least 10 feet from buildings
• NEVER leave food cooking, or candles burning unattended.
• NEVER use a grill as a heat source inside the home, or business.
• ALWAYS use portable generators outside away from doors and windows, NEVER use inside of enclosed areas of a home or buildings.
• Make sure you have working smoke alarms outside of each sleeping area, and at least one carbon monoxide alarm in the home.

If you need smoke detectors either call or stop by your local fire department and they will be happy to provide what is needed in your home at no cost.  If you are unable to install, they will be happy to assist and install for you.

  Should you have any questions or are in need of assistance please feel free to contact us.

SERVPRO IS YOUR NUMBER ONE RESOURCE FOR FIRE, WATER, AND MOLD REMEDIATION.

When You Suffer A Fire Loss Call Our Experts

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

Our professionals used state-of-the-art equipment and specialized cleaning techniques in this home to restore it to pre-damage conditions.

Fires are destructive, so when there is a fire in your home, you need to respond immediately to prevent the damage from spanning throughout the building. Once you suffer fire loss, assessment of the damage to the structure, as well as the contents of your home, gives a bigger picture of the work that is necessary. The professionals at SERVPRO can get to the heart of the matter in a timely fashion.

The fire damage in your home could be one or more of three common forms. Each type of destruction comes with its own set of issues, so it is imperative that you understand each kind and how it can impact your property.

Damage from Flames

Various levels of flame destruction can take place, depending on the cause of the fire. The damage caused by a naked flame coming from a candle or match is going to be vastly different than that of an electrical fire. Failing to restore appropriately can lead to hidden electrical issues and unseen structural damage. However, SERVPRO technicians have the necessary expertise to restore a home after any fire.

Damage from Soot and Smoke

Soot can leave long-lasting fire damage that may linger for weeks or even months after the fire is extinguished. The strong scent of smoke may also last longer on different surfaces within your home, including the walls, ceilings, flooring, and furniture. Smoke morphs into soot, which can discolor various surfaces, and stronger smoke residue might even lead to surface corrosion. To remedy this issue, SERVPRO technicians carefully wipe down plastic and painted surfaces, finished surfaces, and the tops of your furnishings. We may also employ the use of air scrubbers that work to eliminate the smoke scent from within the home. 

Damage from Third Parties

House fires may also bring about other issues, such as damage from the water used to extinguish the flames. Because the water may soak into the carpeting and drywall, our trained technicians use infrared camera technology to pinpoint areas of hidden moisture. If dry chemicals have been used by firefighters to extinguish the fire, we can work quickly to clean up the corrosive powder that may be left behind to prevent further damage.

When you suffer from a fire loss, SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph County can be there quickly to get to work. Give us a call at (256)-378-1319 to learn more about our available services.

Choose a reputable company for your restoration needs!

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Having a team on your side after a disaster can help relieve stress. SERVPRO is here to help you when disaster strikes!

There is never a bad time to make sure your fire preparedness efforts are up to par, but winter is the prime time to check in. Cooler weather brings on more fires based on the Red Cross’s data, with December and January being the most hazardous.

In the event of a fire, are you sure you would know what to do? Practice a fire safety plan with your household to ensure you know how to react, and consider the restoration company to call to find out how to restore.

Fire Restoration Methods You Can Count On

You never want to doubt that your fire restoration company will do a quality job in a reasonable time frame, which is why we want to reassure our customers every step of the way. We are here to answer the phone ²⁴⁄₇ and will perform extensive restoration once we arrive.

Here are the methods we implore after a fire to help you recover:

Structural Cleaning

Restoring your structure properly is essential to your home’s longevity. When we arrive, we will thoroughly inspect the area to determine the extent of the damage and create an action plan for restoring it. After this, the restoration process will begin, including reconstruction and soot removal from all affected areas.

Content Cleaning

The belongings you have chosen are part of what makes your house feel like home, which is why we will restore everything we are able to. Not only is this often cheaper than replacing it, but it will also make your recovery much easier. Utilizing wet and dry cleaning, we can handle most types of objects and ensure they are safe for usage.

Deodorization Services

Even after the structure and the contents of your home have been repaired, smoke and soot odors can linger. Not only can these be a nuisance, but exposure to them can lead to health issues down the road. That is why we make use of technology that can scrub the air of these harmful compounds, so you can breathe without a worry in your home.

If you’ve been affected by a fire, reach out to us right away! We are here ²⁴⁄₇ to help you recover.

Ways to Protect your business from Fire Hazards

8/19/2019 (Permalink)

Business owners have many things, including plenty of safety factors to consider, regarding risks to their business, staff, and visitors. If you are a business owner, one of those risks you need to spend a little extra time planning for and working toward preventing is a Fire!

Common Causes Of Commercial Structure Fires:

According to the National Fire Protection Association, The leading causes of structure fires in office properties include..:

1. Cooking Equipment- 29% of fires.

2. Electrical Distribution, and Lighting Equipment- 12% of fires.

3. Heating Equipment- 11% of fires

4. Intentional- 10% of fires

5. Smoking Materials- 9% of fires

6. Exposure- 4% of fires 

7. Electronic, office, or Entertainment Equipment- 3% of fires

Out of those, Namely three causes accounted for the most property damage are intentional fires, Exposure, and Electrical distribution and lighting equipment fires with 20%, 18%, and 15% respectively.

Protecting your Business:

There are many steps to follow to protect your business from the risks of fires, But focusing on fire risk assessment, Fire prevention, and Staff education, you can help reduce the chance of a fire breaking out. First you need to make sure to assess the fire hazard risks in your facility. In some areas, the local government may even provide a visit from a fire marshal who will help identify these risks and provide guidance on your fire prevention plan. You'll want to make sure that the right fire protection equipment is in place. This includes an automatic sprinkler system, smoke detectors and fire extinguishers on each floor. Most importantly, consider your employees and visitors. Creating a fire plan and reviewing it with your staff will ensure that you are making sure everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire. Conduct fire drills at least once a year to keep that fire safety protocol fresh in their minds, and take time to review evacuation plans and the location of first-aid kit.

Despite best efforts with fire prevention and safety tips, the worst could always happen at your business, if a fire has damaged your business SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties is available to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Know Your Policy Before Disaster Strikes

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

What happens when you are standing on your front lawn watching the fire department attempt to save your burning house? Your first thought is: is my home salvageable? Your second thought is: will the insurance company cover this? You think to yourself that you must call your agent and a reputable company that is familiar with this type of loss, which is SERVPRO. Our professionals have worked for many years to help make fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

If your home is destroyed and uninhabitable, ensure that your homeowner’s policy has a loss clause that covers living expenses. You will need living expenses while your home is being repaired or rebuilt. Many people do not know their insurance policies well enough to advocate for themselves with their insurance company. Knowledge is the best protection. Be sure that you know what you are and are not covered for before a disaster strikes.

SERVPRO will not only be able to restore your home, but our knowledgeable Project Managers are well-versed in insurance coverage. SERVPRO works with all insurance companies and will communicate directly with your adjuster to ensure that you are back in your own home as quickly as possible. Our PM’s will help guide you as best they can during this extremely stressful time, and our expert and compassionate crew will get you back on your feet in no time. 

Steps in Fire Restoration

7/21/2019 (Permalink)

After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Today 256-378-1319

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call  SERVPRO of Wyoming County/Kingston Township, which is on call 24 hours a day. Our representative will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us dispatch our team of Professionals with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Our Professionals will 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 will 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 will use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We will clean 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.

Do you have the right smoke detector?

7/11/2019 (Permalink)

Having a smoke detector in your home is critical to making sure you and your family are safe. You should have one in every bedroom and on every floor of your home. You probably already knew how important these little alarms are, but do you know how to make sure that your smoke detector is a good one?

Smoke detectors can come in any size and shape, and they can be as cheap as $5 or as expensive as $150, so with all of these options, how do you know what to choose? First, there are two different types of detectors: ionized and photoelectric. Some devices are a combination of these two types. Ionized smoke detectors work best when there are actual flames present. They are quick to sound the alarm when a lot of heat is produced. Photoelectric smoke detectors work well with fires that start slow and tend to smolder and create a lot of smoke. Smoldering fires like these are usually pretty silent, so people do not always notice them at first; some people will actually develop breathing problems and pass out before they realize that a fire is occurring.

Both types of alarms are designed to detect fire no matter what, and both will be sufficient to get you and your loved ones out of the house in time as long as you keep up with maintenance such as testing the alarms and replacing batteries when needed. If you feel the need, you can put a mixture of the two types of alarms throughout your house. Regardless of what type you choose, make sure you have them in the kitchen, bedrooms, and any other important places in your home.

If your house or office suffers from a fire loss, call SERVPRO® of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties at (256)-378-1319

How we handle fires at SERVPRO!

7/7/2019 (Permalink)

Typically, we are called out at all times of the day and night. We do get some who come in the door and referrals from the people we've worked with.

Usually fires have a pretty short timeline. We're first call responders. We get the fire alerts and then one of us will go out to the fire and just let the customers know that we're there to be of assistance. We get out of the way of the professionals and will hang out and give the property owner any assistance we can. We can help them get the insurance process started by calling their agent for them while they take care of their family.

A lot of the time we will send pictures to the insurance agent and help the customer communicate with their insurance agent. In the off-hours the customer has no way to contact their insurance agent, but we have most of their cell numbers, so we can text their agent and let them know about the incident. The agent appreciates it and the customers do too.

Every now and then, an agent, an adjuster or a customer will call us on a fire, but that's less common than us going out and actually seeing the fire right after it happens.

The other work we do is with water damage, mold, and bio-hazard. It comes to us through referrals, our corporate office and through good people who know us or see us through our advertising.

If you have a fire in your home SERVPRO can help you with so much more than just the restoration process. Let SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties take care of you in your time of need.

If you have any questions please call 256-378-1319

How To Eliminate the Smell of Cigarette Smoke From Your Home

7/6/2019 (Permalink)

Did you just purchase a home where the previous tenants smoked? Perhaps you’ve been a smoker yourself but recently quit. In either case, your house will have the strong odor of cigarettes. If you can’t tolerate this odor or want it gone for health reasons, there are ways to make it happen with home deodorization and other means.

The Ill Effects of Cigarette Smoke

Smoking can be a difficult habit to break, but it’s not only worth it for your well-being, but you’ll also notice a big difference in your house. Cigarette smoke can do the following:

• Poses risks for children, such as chest and nose problems
• Lingers on furniture
• Can turn walls yellow
• Settles into clothing
  
  

What Does a Deodorizer Do?

One of the most common remedies for cigarette smoke is a deodorizer. The home deodorization process can be effective at eliminating this stench and harmful particles that it introduces. Both home remedies and store-bought products are designed to absorb the bad smells and replace them with something more pleasant. Ideally, these won’t contain harmful chemicals.

What Do the Pros Say?

There are plenty of choices out there you can try, but you’ll be hard-pressed to beat what a professional smoke remediation company can provide. An expert team of technicians has the experience and skill to properly identify safe, permanent solutions to your dilemma. The best companies will not only provide options to help you remove this awful smell, but they’ll show you how you can use them yourself. 

The Ozone Approach

The smoke removal team will likely recommend the use of ozone to remove the cigarette smell. This technique is simple to use. Make sure everyone, including pets, is out of the house. Also, cover up all valuable items, and then set the timer to start the ozone device. It could take up to 24 hours or longer for the generator to do its job. The technician will let you know how long to wait to enter the home. 

Contact a professional today to get more information on the best home deodorization system. You can soon experience a fresh smell once again.

Top 3 Reasons to board your home after a fire

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Top 3 Reasons to Board Up Your Home Following a Fire

No homeowner wants to watch a house go up in smoke. Still, even if you exercise caution, you cannot completely eliminate your risk of sustaining fire damage. If your home has been through a residential fire, you must act quickly to minimize ongoing harm. Here are the top three reasons to board up your home following a fire.

1. Keep Weather Out of Your House

As you probably know, water can destroy the inside of your home. Not only does moisture affect the quality of carpeting, drywall and fixtures, but it can also promote mold growth. By relying on an emergency board up service to make your home weather-tight, you keep water from making fire damage worse. 

2. Discourage Criminal Activity

Burned homes are easy targets for thieves, vandals and other criminals. To discourage looting following a fire, board up your home. Not only does placing boards over damaged windows and doors make illegal entry more difficult, but it also blocks the view of the inside of your home. Either way, if you want to keep criminals out of your house, attaching boards is an effective strategy. 

3. Prevent Animals From Nesting

Birds, raccoons, snakes, mice and other critters love to live inside abandoned properties. While you are waiting to begin repairs on your damaged home, you must encourage animals to stay away from it. By boarding up your home, you tell animal invaders they are not welcome.

Unless a fire completely ruins your home, you probably want to repair it. As such, you must do what you can to limit ongoing damage following a fire. Since broken doors and missing windows encourage damage to continue, you probably want to place boards over the access points. With the right fire restoration service, you can be certain you are protecting your home from further damage.

Tips To Make Cleanup After a Fire Easy

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

One of the most devastating events you and your family can experience is losing your home and belongings to a fire. Dealing with finding a temporary place to live while rebuilding your life can be a stressful time, especially if there was extensive smoke damage to some or all of your belongings. You may think your possessions are a total loss following a fire and that you should throw them away, but you may be surprised by the number of items you can save through dry cleaning and other professional cleanup efforts. Consider these tips on how you can clean smoke-damaged items and possibly preserve prized family heirlooms. 

1. Inspect Your Home

After a fire, do a thorough inspection of your home and belongings to see what you can try to save. There may be some objects that have been thoroughly destroyed that will need to be tossed, but others may have simply suffered smoke or water damage.

2. Separate Objects by Damage

The type of damage your items suffered will determine how they’ll be cleaned and restored. For example, belongings ruined by water from when firefighters extinguished the fire will not be treated the same as possessions affected by smoke. 

3. Clean and Store Items

After you’ve separated your items for cleanup, you’ll want to begin the restoration . You should have higher-priority objects, such as clothing, treated first since they’re items you’re more likely to use daily. Dry cleaning your clothes can remove any smoke damage that may be present. When it comes to content cleaning, most fire remediation professionals in Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties can restore items using ultrasonic cleaning. Once your items have been restored, you’ll want to use a content storage facility to keep them safe until your home has been repaired or rebuilt. 

It’s important to begin the post-fire cleanup and restoration process as soon as possible. The sooner you’re able to get fire damage restoration professionals in your home to assess the damage and begin dry cleaning, the more belongings you’ll likely be able to save.

Grilling season is here

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

With warm weather looking to stay around for a while, this means that it's time for everyone to start planning outdoor parties and hang outs. This means that it is finally time to fire up the grill. Grilling does sound like an easy and harmless activity, it can actually be a major cause of house fires. Grilling out can cause around 8,900 house fires each year. Gas grills are the leading cause of fires rather than charcoal grills because of the gas being used near an open flame. Here are some easy grilling tips to keep you and your family safe this summer.

• Use your grill outside and away from the sides of buildings
• Ensure your grill is stable on the ground or your deck
• Keep your grill and grilling area clean at all times
• If you have a propane grill, check for propane leaks
• If the flame goes out as you start to grill, wait just a few minutes before trying to re-light it
• Use lighting fluid with caution
• Make sure to wear suitable clothing for grilling
• Be ready to put the fire out after you have finished grilling

If you experience fire damage, give SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph County a call! 

After the fire..

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Most full-service restoration specialists offer boarding-up services. Here are four reasons to board-up after a fire.

1. You need to keep out the elements. If the structure of your property has sustained extensive damage, you should try to keep the elements out. Exposure to additional water, wind, or sunlight can compound the damage caused by smoke residue and soot.

2. There is still viable stock on the premises. If products that appear viable remain in the building, you should consider boarding up. These items may require assessment and cleaning and may not be fit for sale but having them properly processed rather than stolen can be helpful for insurance purposes.

3. You want to protect electronics and other valuables. Depending on the extent of the fire damage, you may be able to restore some electronics or other valuable property to working condition. Loss can be far more expensive than restoration or covered replacement.

4. You want to limit soot damage. It is generally a good idea to reduce foot traffic on the scene of a recent fire. When soot gets embedded into carpeting or upholstery, it can be much more difficult to restore these materials to a pre-fire condition.

Your major concern is likely to be how to recover from fire damage as quickly and completely as possible. Preventing looting and exposure to the elements can make fire cleanup more successful. Here at SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties we will always put our customers first.

Smoke odors in your home? Fire clean up needed? SERVPRO!

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

Homeowners face many threats to their properties, even when they are not always top of mind. There is always the possibility of a leaky roof, a busted pipe or a natural disaster. For all the tragedies reported in the nightly news, most threats are smaller but still disruptive. Take for instance the fire damage caused by a small kitchen or garage fire that leaves your home filled with smoke and soot and your belongings charred or badly damaged. Even when the fire in your home is not part of a news segment, it is still worthy of professional attention. 

 SERVPRO is here to help when there is fire damage to your home. Even when well-wishers share their insight on how to restore your home after a kitchen fire, it is best for you to consult with professionals. Our IICRC-certified staff formally trains on the latest trends and techniques to return your home to its original condition while mitigating your loss. All you need to do is call us so our rapid response team can spring into action. Our crew is available 24/7/365 to respond to your emergency as soon as possible. 

Even when the fire in your home seems small, the consequences can be big. Call on SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties during your time of need. Just call us at (256) 378-1319 and let us leave your home "Like it never even happened."

Here Comes The Fire

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

Major Causes of Structure Fires are Cooking equipment, Heating equipment, intentional, electrical distribution & lighting equipment, smoking materials, clothes in dryer or washer, exposure to other fire, candles & playing with any kind of heat source. 

Cooking equipment is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries. More than half of all cooking fire injuries occur when people try to fight the fire themselves. 

Heating equipment is involved in one of every 5 home fire deaths. These fires are also more likely than central heating fires to result in death. 

Electrical failures are factors in 13% of home fires.

ore than one-third of home candle fires start in bedrooms. The top three days for home candle fires are Christmas, New Years Day & Christmas Eve. 

No matter what kind of fire it may be in your home it is a traumatic event no matter what the size. Do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties @ 256-378-1319 with any of your fire damage needs!

Destroy Odors with DEODORIZATION!

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized. Fire, smoke, and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems. As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard-to-reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors. With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration (IIRC), SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Cos Franchise Professionals provide specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Cos Franchise Professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the sources of the odor. If you or a customer suffer a fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services, contact SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Cos Franchise Professionals @ 256-378-1319! Whether its fire, water, or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we'll help make it "Like it never even happened."

Other Odors that may require DEODORIZATION:

• Cigarette Smoke
• Pet Odors
• Decomposition
• Mold

EXTREME HEAT

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

As summer approaches, it is time to consider safety precautions for extreme heat in the coming months. Heat affects all people, but especially the young, elderly, sick, and overweight. Urban area residents also have a greater chance of being affected than those who live in rural areas due to the heat island effect. 

According to the EPA, "the sun can heat dry, exposed urban surfaces, such as roofs and pavement, to temperatures 50-90 degrees Fahrenheit hotter than the air, while shaded or moist surfaces--often in more rural surroundings--remain close to air temperatures." These surface heat islands are strongest during the day when the sun is shining, while the atmospheric heat islands are more likely after sunset "due to the slow release of heat from urban infrastructure." Whether you are in an urban or rural area, there are several things you can do to prepare for and prevent extreme heat from affecting you. If possible, stay indoors in air conditioning. Be sure to check on your pets who may be outdoors or bring them inside. Stay hydrated and limit alcohol and caffeine intake. If you must go outside, wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, and be sure to apply sunscreen often. Pay attention to signs of heat exhaustion, which are heavy sweating; weakness; cold, pale, and clammy skin; nausea or vomiting; and fainting, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which is life threatening. Signs of heat stroke are a high body temperature (103+), rapid and strong pulse, and possible unconsciousness. If you think someone has heat stroke, call 911 immediately and move the person somewhere cool. Reduce body temperature with cool, wet cloths or a bath. Do not give a person with heat stroke fluids, and treat the situation as a serious medical emergency (CDC). If you live in humid climate, be aware of the heat index. The heat index factors in the humidity, which can make the temperature feel 15 degrees hotter. Extreme heat is a serious danger.  

Fire Damage!

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

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

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

Have A Fire or Smoke Damage Emergency? 
Call 256-378-1319!

What To Do After A Fire

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

What NOT To Do After A Fire

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

Fire Damage Process!

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have specialized fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet. 

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals

• Provide 24/7 Emergency Service
• Highly Trained Fire and Water Restoration Specialists
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises
• Preferred Vendor for Many National and Local Insurance Companies

Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today 256-378-1319!

Why Choose SERVPRO Franchise Professionals?

They’re Faster to Any Size Disaster

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are dedicated to responding immediately when you need help with a fire or water damage event. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.

 They’re Fire and Water Damage Specialists

They specialize in fire and water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have extensive training and equipment to get your property back to pre-fire condition.

• Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

They Have a Restore vs. Replace Mentality

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals clean and restore your property using specialized equipment and cleaning techniques. Their “restore first” mentality reduces interruption and gets you back to your life.

The Fire Damage Restoration Process

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals know just how devastating a fire can be. Fire and water damage can leave your house unsafe and unlivable. They’re trained to clean and restore your home with as little disruption as possible. Learn more about the fire damage restoration process.

Step1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

Step 6: Cleaning and Repair

Fire Damage Process

4/3/2018 (Permalink)

After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Cos. have the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today – (256) 378-1319

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

Important Information - Fire Damage

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

• A Nationwide Service Provider

SERVPRO is a Franchise System with over 1,350 independently owned and operated Franchises nationwide. SERVPRO Industries Inc., the Franchisor may be reached at the National Call Center at 1-800-SERVPRO. SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Co. and SERVPRO of St Clair Co may be reached at 256-378-1319.

• Work Authorization

In order to start our emergency and restoration service, you must sign the "Service Authorization Form." This allows us to take action immediately. We do no know your insurance coverage; therefore. it is impossible for us to know exactly what your insurance will cover. It is important to understand you are financially responsible for our services. Your deductible is payable before we start work. If for any reason insurance coverage cannot be verified at the time of our emergency service, an additional deposit may be required.

• References

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Co. and SERVPRO of St Clair Co. would be pleased to provide references upon request.

• How We Proceed

The following steps may be completed in the emergency service, as determined to be applicable by SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Co. and SERVPRO of St Clair Co.: 

Surveying and Pretesting

First, we will walk through the job with you to determine the areas that have been affected. Second, we will pretest the clean ability of surfaces as needed. Pretesting is a SERVPRO Franchise System process designed to identify those items that will be restorable. Third, we will make a detailed scope and inventory of each affected area. Finally, we will give you a summary of our findings and explain the best steps for restoration.

Extent of Cleaning

We will review the full extent of the smoke damage. However, you and your insurance adjuster have the final say as to the extent of cleaning to be performed. Please consult with your adjuster if you have any questions. You will be responsible for payments of anything your insurance company does not pay.

Window Cleaning

For normal smoke damage, windows will be cleaned on the inside only.

Smoke & Soot Cleanup

6/20/2017 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.

• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.

• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Fire Restoration

6/20/2017 (Permalink)

Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have specialized fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet. 

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals

• Provide 24/7 Emergency Service
• Highly Trained Fire and Water Restoration Specialists
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises

Preferred Vendor for Many National and Local Insurance Companies

If you need any Cleaning and Restoration Services call us at 256-378-1319!

Fire Fire!!

5/10/2017 (Permalink)

It's devastating to experience the chaos of a fire in your Talladega. Clay and Randolph County home. Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean up too. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority.

The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage that occurred. These can lead to corrosion, discoloration and unpleasant odor. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem. 

Take action and follow these steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire. 

1. Contact your insurance company.

2. Contact your local fire restoration company – SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties.

3. Take photographs of the damage.

4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company.

5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed.

6. Find a place to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property.

While a house fire is a trying experience, it helps to have a game plan in place. So remember these steps for the next time you or a loved one is handling the aftermath of a house fire and call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties 256-378-1319

Smoke Alarms

5/10/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms. Most of us forget we have them in our homes until the battery gets low. Most people do not even realize their homes do not have smoke alarms installed, or worse they do not have enough installed to reach critical points in the home. Our owners' sister passed from not having had working smoke alarms in the home and it was very tragic. He is very persistent about making sure people have working smoke alarms in their homes. All of us never thought about here at SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties but its truthful, having smoke alarms determines a life or death situation. You are helping someone keep from risking their life by making sure they have working smoke alarms in their home.

The Do's And Dont's!!

3/20/2017 (Permalink)

Fire & Smoke Damage

                        Do:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant. 
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Wash both sides of leaves on house plants.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or of the HVAC system.

                          DON'T:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electric shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

Fire, Smoke & Soot Restoration

3/6/2017 (Permalink)

Fire, Smoke & Soot Restoration Services

• Structural Cleaning- After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. Our experienced SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will pretest to determine the extent of damage, then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your structure. Depending on the amount of soot, your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional may even be able to reduce the cost of recovery by cleaning lighter soot deposits found on some surfaces, eliminating the expense incurred with repainting or refinishing. In other cases, SERVPRO will clean to "prepare for painting." This process deodorizes and ensures the new paint will adhere properly to the surface.


• Contents Cleaning- All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. Our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. Our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can provide wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac and much more. Finally, SERVPRO can provide an inventory list of all "to be claimed" items if requested. 


• Deodorization- Our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals provide specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. Our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out the sources of the odor and remove them. If you have questions you can ask our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

Emergency Fire Damage Process Overview

ONE HOUR:

Within one hour from notice of loss, one of our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will contact you to arrange service. You'll know help is on the way!

FOUR HOURS:

Within four hours of loss notification, one of our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage.

DETAILED EXPLANATION:

One of our trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome.

PRETESTING:

Our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.

EIGHT HOURS:

Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.

CLEANING, RESTORATION & DEODORIZATION:

Our SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time.

FINAL WALK-THROUGH:

After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT FIRE, SMOKE OR SOOT RESTORATION SERVICES CALL 256-378-1319 AND WE WILL BE GLAD TO HELP!