Addressing Fire Damage in Your Home

7/31/2024 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be devastating, leaving your home with extensive damage and posing significant safety risks. Prompt action is crucial to mitigate the impact and begin the restoration process.

After a fire, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Avoid entering damaged areas until they have been assessed by professionals. Begin by addressing any water damage caused by firefighting efforts, as this can lead to mold growth if not managed properly.

At SERVPRO of Northwest San Antonio, we are here to help you navigate this challenging time with expert fire damage restoration services.

Our team is available 24/7 to respond quickly to your emergency. We provide comprehensive services, including smoke and soot removal, structural repairs, and odor elimination. Using advanced equipment and techniques, we work diligently to restore your home to its pre-fire condition.

Don’t face the aftermath of a fire alone. Contact (210) 521-3313 SERVPRO of Northwest San Antonio for professional fire damage restoration and get your home back to normal swiftly and efficiently.

Fire Pit Safety Tips

5/27/2022 (Permalink)

Do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio when fire damage strikes, we are always here to help!

What a great way to kick off the holiday weekend by jumping into the pool and barbecuing on the grill?

Some of us may be uncovering our fire pits and looking forward to spending time with family and friends gathering around them. Practicing fire safety is important.  Below are a few tips for fire pit safety:

The fire pit should be a minimum of 10 feet away from any structures or combustible materials as well as away from trees, fences, sheds, power lines, and telephone wires.

Burn only dry material; damp material will create excess smoke. 

Do not use lighter fluid or gasoline to start the fire, as it can burn out of control or even result in explosions. Do not burn tires, aerosols, or anything containing paint or foam to avoid toxic fumes which could also explode and cause injury.

Wear non-flammable clothing while starting, sitting near, or extinguishing the fire. 

Do not leave the fire unattended, and keep pets and children far away from the fire as they will be attracted to it.

Keep the proper fire extinguishing equipment, or at least a water hose, handy in case of an emergency.

Be safe and use good judgment while using a fire pit.  SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio cares deeply for our community and is available 24/7 if an emergency should occur.  We are here to help. Give our team of trained professionals a call, we are dedicated to helping you when disaster strikes!

How to Get Rid of Odors After a Fire

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

While some fires are a total loss not all of them are.  Fires can cause damage to the content of your home and potentially leave behind an odor.  The first thing your fire restoration company will do is to clean up all the damage and get your property looking as normal as possible.

The first steps to start with are:

• Removing and disposing of belonging that are too badly damaged and cannot be repaired
• If the carpet and flooring were damaged from the water that was used to put out the fire, and have tried to clean the carpet or dried the flooring, but the smell is still there, the best thing would remove the carpet or flooring
• Painting your walls with primer and odor resistance paint will help with removing the smoke odor

Cleaning up after a fire can be hard. SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio can help you with restoring the damages and help get rid of the odor left behind by the fire.  If the unexpected happens, know that you can count on SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Different Types of Smoke

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio, we are available 24 hours and 7 days a week!

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored to 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.

Proper Remediation Can Help Prevent Additional Damage

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Although kitchen fires generally begin on the stove, the damage can affect the entire kitchen including the walls, ceiling, air ducts, and appliances.  SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio offers a variety of services such as smoke and soot removal, deodorization, water removal, and dehumidification to help restore homes to the preloss condition when possible.  Proper remediation of fire, smoke, soot, and water damage can help prevent further damage such as lingering odors, mold growth, and permanent discoloration of items.  Electronic claims tracking provides real-time information to monitor our progress of the specific job claim.  Here are some helpful tips to follow to prevent further damage following a fire loss incident:

• Limit movement to prevent further damage
• Place clean towels or old linens on carpeted traffic areas to prevent additional soiling
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open
• Clean and protect chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets and appliances with a light coating of petroleum jelly 
  

SERVPRO of Northeast San Antoniois here to help you.  Our professionals are available 24-hours a day, 365 days of the year to help you.  When fire damage invades your home, give our team a call!

Firework Safety

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

Fireworks are one way to celebrate ringing in the New Year. However, they can cause quite a bit of damage if not used carefully. Fireworks have been responsible for many injuries and fires.  Enjoy the use of fireworks around New Year's by being responsible. If you are planning to use fireworks to celebrate your holiday festivities, first, be sure to check if fireworks are legal around your area. Safety first; follow the following tips if you plan to use fireworks to celebrate: 

• Use fireworks outdoor only 
• Ensure local weather conditions permit the use of fireworks
• Obey local laws regarding the use of fireworks
• Read the directions and warning labels on fireworks before 
• Be aware of your surroundings, including powerlines and trees
• Always have a bucket of water, hose, and/or extinguisher nearby. 
• Never aim fireworks towards people, animals, or objects
• Alcohol and fireworks do NOT mix

Fire Extinguisher: Remember PASS

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests remembering the word PASS while using the device.

Fire extinguishers can be used to help control small fires during emergency situations when used correctly.  The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests remembering the word PASS while using the device.

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

There are different classes of fire and each fire extinguisher has labels designated for the type of fire to use the extinguisher on. Become familiar with the device before a fire breaks and double check the fire extinguisher label to make sure it’s designed to fight the type of fire.

Contact SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio for your restoration needs once the fire is safely put out.  Our team is always here to help!  Give our team a call today to help with your fire restoration needs (210)653-4651. 

Electrical Fire

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week for fire emergencies!

Have you checked around your home lately for any faulty wires, electrical cords, or power strips? If not, now is a great time to do it.  Many homes have wires with insulation that has been worn off, rubbed off, or bitten off (rodents) that can lead to electrical fires. Many of these wiring issues can potentially cause a fire in your home which can result in a lot of damage to your property.  

If you have a small fire outbreak due to these types of wiring issues, give SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio a call.  Our company has trained professionals and our company is a fire restoration company that will help fix your smoke damaged homes and help salvage your property! Our team has the tools and equipment to remove soot from walls and filter out lingering smoke odors.  Don’t hesitate to give our team a call today for your smoke and fire needs. 

Chimney Fires in San Antonio

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Available 24/7 365 days, SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio is always here to help when fire disaster strikes!

January temperatures are dropping, the air is finally crisp and Texans can say winter weather has finally arrived.  As temperatures drop in San Antonio, fireplaces are being used. That means that chimney fires can become a concern for many homeowners. Chimney fires are caused by creosote, a combustible substance that is formed by gases during the burning process. This substance hardens to the chimney liner and poses a serious fire risk. Here are a few ways that can help you prevent chimney fires:

- Clean your chimney: The chimney should be inspected every year. Making sure your chimney is safe and cleaning it when it becomes a possible hazard is a great way to prevent a fire. 

- Use dry wood: If the wood is wet, it will not burn as hot as the dry wood and will produce much more smoke. This increase in smoke can lead to an increase in creosote production. 

- Use a creosote remover powder: This powder is to be placed on the wood and burned at a high temperature. This helps turn the creosote that may be forming in the chimney into powder which can reduce the buildup. 

All of these tips can reduce your chances of a chimney fire, but the most important one is the first. Always make sure your chimney is inspected and cleaned regularly to ensure the safety of your household.  If your home suffers from a fire emergency give SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio a call at (210) 653-4651.

Space Heater Safety

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Cold temperatures call for some residents to seek out other heat sources in an effort to keep living spaces comfortable.  The most common supplemental heat source is a portable space heater. Space heaters are easy to use and can quickly generate heat to warm up a home from a real cold day.  Consider the following tips to minimize the risks of a heating-related fire in your home:

• Keep it three feet away from anything that can burn
• Do not use extension cords
• Turn off the space heater when leaving the room or going to bed
• Don't use a space heater in a damp or wet area unless it's specifically made for that purpose
• Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and test monthly

If you or anyone you know experiences fire damage, give SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio a call.  Our highly trained technicians are certified and have years of experience.  We are always here to help!

Fire Loss Content Inventory

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Always here to help our community!

SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio has received calls for fire losses.  Calls came in from the larger commercial scale and others being small kitchen or garage fires.  No matter the size of the job, SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio is here to make it "Like it never even happened." 

In addition to the smoke and soot cleanup, one key component to a fire loss in the inventory process.  This requires a great deal of time in most cases due to the process involves detailed photographs taken of each item to ensure that all your items are documented and labeled to specific boxes. involved.  As our technicians being to take inventory on both what is salvageable and what is unsalvageable, unsalvageable items will be discarded and begin cleaning and boxing the salvageable items to be stored in a safe location until the restoration process has been completed.  In some cases, the restoration process in the home or business does not allow for storage of these items in which case they are brought back to the SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio office where they are stored in a climate-controlled and protected area. 

Once the inventory has been completed it is submitted to the insurance company and homeowner for review and to be processed as part of the claim. 

As soon as the restoration and reconstruction process has been completed, we will bring the stored items back to the homeowner or business owner safely and securely. 

Our trusted staff understands the importance of your belongings and will treat them with care.  SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio is committed to providing the best service to our customers.  

Remember P.A.S.S.

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers can be used to help control small fires during emergency situations when used correctly.  The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests remembering the word PASS while using the device.

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

There are different classes of fire and each fire extinguisher has labels designated for the type of fire to use the extinguisher on. Become familiar with the device before a fire breaks and double-check the fire extinguisher label to make sure it’s designed to fight the type of fire.

Contact SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio for your restoration needs once the fire is safely put out.  Our team is always here to help! 

Dryer Fires

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

Prevent dryer fires by doing a regular maintenance check!

Washing and drying clothes are common routines. But did you know that dryers are responsible for a significant number of damages and injuries? According to the United States Fire Administration, every year clothes dryer fires account for over $100 million in losses.

It is crucial to take care of your dryer and do regular maintenance. Most driers do come with lint traps or filters that catch the lint. The majority of the fires that are caused by driers occur as a result of flammable lint getting caught in the vent and overheating which leads to the fire.

Use these tips to prevent dryer fires from occurring in your home:

• Do not use the dryer without a lint filter
• Clean out lint filters before every load
• Keep the area around your dryer clear of things that can burn, like boxes, cleaning supplies and clothing
• Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional
• Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted
• Make sure the right plug and outlet are used, and that the machine is connected properly
• Do not overload the dryer
• Turn the dryer off if you leave home or when you go to bed

Call a trusted restoration company – while everything may seem to be dry, it’s the water that you don’t see that can possibly create further damages to your home. Our team here at SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio has the tools and equipment to help meet your restoration needs. Our team is faster to any water damage disaster and is able to eliminate the standing water with our effective methods. Give us a call 210-653-4651 we are available 24 hours 7 days a week!

Fireplace Safety Tips

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Stay warm but safe this holiday season!

Everyone enjoys a good fire around the fireplace when temperatures have fallen.  What’s not to enjoy about feeling cozy and warm during the winter months? Fireplaces may be used to provide warmth during this time of year.  But have you considered that this could be a potential fire hazard?   Listed below are some tips about fireplace safety to use to keep you and your family safe.

• Crack open a window while the fire is burning.
• Be sure the damper or flue is open before lighting or starting a fire, and until embers have completely stopped burning, to draw smoke out of the house.
• Check the damper by looking up into the chimney with a flashlight or mirror.
• Use smaller pieces of dry and well-aged wood for home fire safety, avoiding wet or green wood, which causes more smoke and soot buildup in the chimney.
• Have a professional check the chimney annually.
• When cleaning a fireplace, remove ashes from previous fires, keeping levels to 1 inch or less for less smoke
• Check for animal nests or other blockages that could prevent smoke from escaping.
• Make sure the area around the fireplace is clear of anything that is potentially flammable.
• Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended and be sure it’s completely out before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Home fireplace safety should include keeping a fire extinguisher on hand.

Fire damage can be devastating and SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio understands the stress that comes with it.  SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio is dedicated to helping you.  If you face any winter storm damages, give our team a call (210) 653-4651 and we’ll be there to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Holiday Cooking

12/10/2019 (Permalink)

Bring out the holiday cookies!

Tis the season!  It’s the time of year where most families and friends gather to be together.  Holiday cooking and baking is a wonderful way to gather and bring out the fun and creativity of the holiday season.  However, the kitchen may be filled with lots of cooks, things can get messy and distracting.  Communication is key while things may get hectic and cluttered, which can possibly lead to a potential fire hazard.

According to the National Fire Prevention Association, cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires each year. And because most people will be cooking their holiday traditions, many homes are at greater risk of a fire. If you plan to cook this holiday season, here are some tips to keep your home safe.

• Stay in the kitchen when cooking so you can keep a close eye on the food
• When cooking a meal that takes a long time like roasting a turkey or baking a roast, check it frequently
• DO NOT throw water on a grease fire.
• Keep a fire extinguisher close by.
• Be sure your smoke detector has good batteries in place.
• Keep things that can catch fire, such as oven mitts, wooden utensils, food wrappers, and towels away from the cooking area
• Keep children and pets away from ovens and stove-tops in use.

As you cook or bake delicious holiday goodies, remember to just be alert. By following these simple safety tips, you can enjoy your time with friends and families.  If your home suffers from fire damage, call the experts at SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio.  Our team has the knowledge and experience to properly treat smoke damage. Our company offers 24/7 emergency services, give us a call (210)653-4651

Thanksgiving Safety

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving is in just a few short days!  SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio is thankful this year and we’re excited to be preparing a holiday feast!  As our team gathers around the kitchen, it is important that we stay cautious.  According to NFPA, it is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment.

Please take a look at the following tips from Ready.gov to stay safe this Thanksgiving:

Safety Tips:

• Only use turkey fryers outdoors; away from home or building and any flammable materials.

• Keep children and pets a safe distance away from the fryer when in use and for several hours after cooking. 

• Do not leave the fryer unattended; temperature should also be monitored closely. 

• If any smoke, at all, comes from the heating pot of oil, turn the burner off immediately as oil may be overheating. 

• Cover any skin that is exposed; it is encouraged to use a pair of gloves that are designed for high heat. 

• Follow the manufacture's recommendation for the amount of oil to add.  Do not overfill the fryer.

• Be prepared - consider purchasing a fire extinguisher for safety precautions. 

SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio is available 24/7 if an emergency should occur.  We are here to help. Give our team of trained professionals a call, we are dedicated to helping you when disaster strikes!

Space Heater Safety

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

As the temperatures begin to drop during this time of year, space heaters are coming out.  To make the atmosphere a more comfortable temperature, space heaters are an easy to use a product that can quickly generate a warm space on a colder day.  But keep in mind, although space heaters are a common way to supplement heat, they can also cause quite a bit of danger.  Fire departments urge everyone to avoid plugging a space heater into a power strip.  Power strips are not designed to handle the high current flow needed for a space heater and can overheat or worst, catch fire due to the added energy flow.   

Stay safe this holiday season!   Be cautious when using a space heater or alternative heat as a supplement.  SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio is dedicated to helping the community out, give our team of trained professionals a call if you have questions about space heaters.

Fire Extinguisher and Classes of Fires

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

You can always count our crew to help you after a fire loss.

Did you know that if you encounter a fire with the wrong type of fire extinguisher you could make the fire worse? For example, use an extinguisher that contains only water on a flammable liquid fire and you’ll spread the fire and put yourself in further danger.  However, the fires are divided into five classes and fire extinguishers are specifically made to take out one or more of the fire classes. Below is a list of fire classes and the extinguishers that put them out.  Each fire extinguisher has labels designated for the type of fire to use the extinguisher on.  Double-check the extinguisher you’re about to use to make sure it’s designed to fight the type of fire. If you are unclear how to deal with the fire it is best to be safe and evacuate.  

Class of Fire: A (A in a green triangle)
Fires of ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, cardboard, most plastics, and cloth
Extinguishers to Use: Water, Foam Spray, ABC Powder, or Wet Chemical

Class of Fire: B (B in a red square)    
Fires of flammable liquids like petroleum, kerosene, grease, and others (but not alcohol or cooking oil)
Extinguishers to Use: Foam Spray, ABC Powder, or Carbon Dioxide

Class of Fire: C (C in a blue circle)    
Fires of energized electrical equipment such as appliances, wiring, circuit breakers and outlets
Extinguisher to Use: ABC Powder

Class of Fire: D (D in a yellow star)    
Fires of combustible metals like magnesium, titanium, sodium (often found in chemical laboratories).
Extinguishers to Use: ABC Powder or Carbon Dioxide

Class of Fire: K (K in a black hexagon)    
Fires of cooking oils, trans fats (often used in restaurants).
Extinguisher to Use: Wet Chemical

Fireplace Safety Tips

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

Fireplaces may be more than just the focal point of a person’s home, especially during the winter seasons.  It may be used to provide warmth during this time of year.  However, fireplaces can be potentially dangerous.  Home fire safety is essential, below are a few tips to help keep your home and family safe:  

• Crack open a window while the fire is burning.
• Be sure the damper or flue is open before lighting or starting a fire, and until embers have completely stopped burning, to draw smoke out of the house.
• Check the damper by looking up into the chimney with a flashlight or mirror.
• Use smaller pieces of dry and well-aged wood for home fire safety, avoiding wet or green wood, which causes more smoke and soot buildup in the chimney.
• Have a professional check the chimney annually.
• When cleaning a fireplace, remove ashes from previous fires, keeping levels of the to 1 inch or less for less smoke
• Check for animal nests or other blockages that could prevent smoke from escaping.
• Make sure the area around the fireplace is clear of anything that is potentially flammable.
• Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended and be sure it’s completely out before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Home fireplace safety should include keeping a fire extinguisher on hand.

Fire damage can be devastating and SERVPRO of Victoria understands the stress that comes with it.  SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio is dedicated to helping you.  If you face any winter storm damages, give our team a call (210) 653-4651 and we’ll be there to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Candle Safety Tips

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

There is something calming about candles especially during the holiday season.  They look pretty and enhance the ambiance in a room, they give off a fragrant smell that can be so luring, but they can also be the cause to a house fire.   December has been noted as the peak month of candle fires.  According to the National Fire Protection Association, 3 out of every 5 candle fires started when they were placed to something that can burn, such as furniture, bedding, or decorations.  Review the tips below to prevent any house fires this holiday season:

• Blow out candles before leaving a room or going to bed
• Keep candles one foot (30 centimeters) away from anything that can burn
• Use a sturdy candle holder, that will not tip over easily
• Put candle holders and a sturdy and unclutter surface
• Light candles carefully, keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame
• Do not let the candle burn all the way to the bottom; put it out before it gets too close to the container or holder
• You should not light a candle if oxygen is used in the home
• During a power outage, use a flashlight or battery-operated lighting instead of a candle

Although candles can add to the décor in the room, however, they can also add danger.  Remember candles are an open flame which means they can easily ignite.  Create an environment that is safe for you during this holiday season, use alternatives to prevent any candle fires in homes like using flameless candles.  As always, remember SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio is here to help!

Safety in the Kitchen during the Holiday Season

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

December is a time when family and friends gather together to celebrate the glorious time of year.   During this time of year, we are more likely to spend a lot of our time in the kitchen cooking a gourmet family feast or baking delicious cookies.  However, it is extremely important to keep safety at the top of your mind.  If you are not properly prepared in the kitchen, it may lead to being a recipe for disaster.  Kitchen fires around Christmas time are the second most frequently reported accidents right behind Thanksgiving.  To help have a safe and joyous holiday season, follow these tips to help keep your home safe.

• Stay in the kitchen while the food is cooking, Most kitchen fires occur because the food is left unattended. 
• Keep the cooking range free of clutter.  Even though you may have dishes to prepare, do not overload a cooktop with too many pots and pans.  Trying to cook all your dishes at once could cause grease to accidentally spill onto a range top and cause a fire. 
• Always keep a potholder, oven mitt and lid handy while cooking. If a small fire starts in a pan on the stove, put on a flame-resistant oven mitt and smother the flames by carefully sliding the lid over the pan.  Turn off the burner.  Don't remove the lid until the food has cooled. 
• When removing lids on hot pans, tilt them away from you to protect your face and hands from steam.  If there is an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed to prevent flames from burning your or your clothes.
• Do not wear loose fitting clothing when cooking. Long open sleeves could ignite and catch fire from a gas flame or a hot burner. 
• Keep smoke alarms connected while cooking.  Make sure smoke alarms are installed and working. 
• Unplug small appliances that aren't in use.  Not only will you save the energy, but you will also avoid potential dangers if they were to be turned on accidentally. 
• Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen in case of emergency and know how to use it.  Make sure the fire extinguisher is UL listed and rated for grease and electrical fires. 

Disasters are never planned.  But SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio is always prepared and here to help.  When disaster strikes, give our trained professionals a call (210) 653-4651! 

Are You Using Your Fireplace this Holiday Season?

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

As the temperatures drop this December, residents may be turning up the heat by using their fireplaces to keep warm.  To prevent any holiday mishaps be sure you remember a few of these tips about fireplace safety: 

Fireplace Safety Tips:

• Before starting a fire, make sure the damper or flue is open. Keeping this open will draw smoke out of the house. Using a flashlight to look up the chimney can check the damper. Never close the damper until the embers have completely stopped burning
• Use dry or aged wood in your fire. With dried wood, it burns with less smoke and burns more evenly. If you use wet or green wood, this causes more smoke and contributes to soot buildup in the chimney
  
  
• Smaller pieces of wood positioned on a grate burn faster and produce less smoke
  
  
• Make sure to clean out ashes from any previous fires. The levels of ash at the base of the fireplace should be kept to 1 inch or less. A thicker layer restricts the air supply to logs, resulting in more smoke
  
  
• You should get your chimney check annually by a professional. Even if the chimney is not due for a cleaning, it is very important to check for animal nests or any other blockages that could prevent smoke from escaping
  
  
• The area around your fireplace should be clear of anything that is potentially flammable
  
  
• Never leave the fire in your fireplace unattended. Make sure the fire is out completely before going to bed or leaving the house
  
  
• Install both a smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure to test them monthly and change the batteries at least once a year
  
  
• Keep a fire extinguisher on hand

Do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio after dealing with a fire at (210) 653-4651.  Our company has trained technicians with years of experience and certifications to get the job done.   Our team is dedicated to helping you when disaster strikes! 

Electrical Safety Tips for the Holiday

11/27/2018 (Permalink)

It is the most wonderful time of the year!  The holiday season is in full swing as we are counting down to Christmas.  As holiday preparations are underway and make your safety a priority.  Take a moment and review the electrical safety below to avoid any holiday mishap. 

• Inspect electrical decorations for damage before use
  Cracked or damaged sockets, loose or bare wires, and loose connections may cause a serious shock or start a fire.
• Do not overload electrical outlets
  Overloaded electrical outlets and faulty wires are a common cause of holiday fires. Avoid overloading outlets and plug only one high-wattage into each outlet at a time. 
• Keep trees fresh by watering daily
  Dry trees are a serious fire hazard.
• Keep combustibles at least three feet from heat sources
  A heat source that was too close to the decoration was a factor in half of the home fires that began with decorations (NFPA).
• Protect cords from damage 
  To avoid shock or fire hazards, cords should never be pinched by furniture, forced into small spaces such as doors and windows, placed under rugs, located near heat sources, or attached by nails or staples. 
• Stay in the kitchen when something is cooking 
  Unattended cooking equipment is the leading cause of home cooking fires (NFPA).
• Turn off decorations when going to sleep or leaving the house
  turn off decorative holiday lights before going to bed or leaving home. A timer can help make sure this happens.

 Each of these tips will help you prevent an electrical fire from starting in your home or business. Now, if the worst happens, and you do sustain damage from a fire, you need the help of professionals to get your home and business straightened out. Call on the fire damage restoration specialists here at SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio (210) 653-4651!

Different Types of Smoke

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored to 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.  Give us a call at (210) 653-4651!

Space Heater Safety

1/8/2018 (Permalink)

Cold temperatures call for some residents to seek out other heat sources in an effort to keep living spaces comfortable.  The most common supplemental heat source is a portable space heater. Space heaters are easy to use and can quickly generate heat to warm up a home up from a real cold day.  Consider the following these tips to minimize risks of a heating related fire in your home:

• Keep it three feet away from anything that can burn
• Do not use extension cords
• Turn off space heater when leaving the room or going to bed
• Don't use a space heater in a damp or wet area unless it's specifically made for that purpose
• Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and test monthly

Do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio (210) 653-4651.  We have highly trained technicians with years of experience and certifications to get the job done.   Our team is dedicated to help you when disaster strikes! 

Christmas Tree Safety

12/11/2017 (Permalink)

As the holiday song goes “It’s the holiday season, so whoop-de-do!”  During this holiday season, many of us have a beautifully decorated Christmas tree as part of the tradition to the season. It is important that the tree is carefully decorated to ensure a safe holiday season.  Over the years, Christmas tree fires have been responsible for property damage.  Most resulted from electrical malfunctions from Christmas tree lights such as faulty wiring, plugs, or even having the tree placed too close to a candle or fire place.  To help avoid any fire damages, follow these simple steps. 

• Ensure trees are secured and sturdy in the tree stand to prevent them from tipping over
• Use tested and UL-approved lighting when decorating trees or other holiday decorations
• Carefully check light strands for frayed, faulty or exposed wiring, broken bulbs or loose bulb connections
• Make sure to water live trees daily; dried out trees increases fire risk
• Ensure artificial trees are fire resistant
• Set up trees at least three feet away from heat sources (lamp, fire places, candles or radiators)
• Make sure tree is not blocking an exit

Your safety is important to us during the holiday season here at SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio.  If you experience any type of fire damage do not hesitate to call our team (210) 653-4651.  Our team is here to help you when disaster strikes.   

Holiday Kitchen Safety Tips

12/4/2017 (Permalink)

December is a time when family and friends gather together to celebrate the glorious time of year.   During this time of year, we are more likely to spend a lot of our time in the kitchen cooking a gourmet family feast or baking delicious cookies.  However, it is extremely important to keep safety at the top of your mind.  If you are not properly prepared in the kitchen, it may lead to be a recipe for disaster.  Kitchen fires around Christmas time is the second most frequently reported accidents right behind Thanksgiving.  To help have a safe and joyous holiday season, follow these tips to help keep your home safe.

• Stay in the kitchen while the food is cooking, Most kitchen fires occur because food is left unattended. 
• Keep the cooking range free of clutter.  Even though you may have dishes to prepare, do not overload a cook top with too many pots and pans.  Trying to cook all your dishes at once could cause grease to accidentally spill onto a range top and cause a fire. 
• Always keep a potholder, oven mitt and lid handy while cooking. If a small fire starts in a pan on the stove, put on a flame-resistant oven mitt and smother the flames by carefully sliding the lid over the pan.  Turn off the burner.  Don't remove the lid until the food has cooled. 
• When removing lids on hot pans, tilt them away from you to protect your face and hands from steam.  If there is an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed to prevent flames from burning your or your clothes.
• Do not wear loose fitting clothing when cooking. Long open sleeves could ignite and catch fire from a gas flame or a hot burner. 
• Keep smoke alarms connected while cooking.  Make sure smoke alarms are installed and working. 
• Unplug small appliances that aren't in use.  Not only will you save the energy, but you will also avoid potential dangers if they were to be turned on accidentally. 
• Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen in case of emergency and know how to use it.  Make sure the fire extinguisher is UL listed and rated for grease and electrical fires. 

Disasters are never planned.  But SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio is always prepared and here to help.  When disaster strikes, give our trained professionals a call (210) 653-4651! 

Smoke and Soot Clean Up in Northeast San Antonio, Texas

11/27/2017 (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.

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio has the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  Our crew will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (210) 653-4651

Thanksgiving Safety

11/20/2017 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving around the corner and most of America starts to prepare for one of the most important meals of the year!  Typically, the most common dishes found on a Thanksgiving table are a turkey.  Most people prepare turkeys for the big occasion.  But did you know that there can be some dangers with preparing a turkey in your own home? Cooking is the leading cause of house fires according to Ready.gov.  Be extra careful with turkey fryers. There are a few house fires that take place on Thanksgiving due to the fact that some safety precautions were not being considered.  SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio  has provided some helpful tips to use while preparing a turkey to prevent any mishaps from happening.  Below are a few key messages to follow to help ensure the safety of your home:  

• Only use turkey fryers outdoors; away from home or building and any flammable materials.

• Keep children and pets a safe distance away from the fryer when in use and for several hours after cooking. 

• Do not leave the fryer unattended; temperature should also be monitored closely. 

• If any smoke, at all, comes from the heating pot of oil, turn the burner off immediately as oil may be overheating. 

• Cover any skin that is exposed; it is encouraged to use a pair of gloves that is designed for high heat. 

• Follow the manufacture's recommendation for the amount of oil to add.  Do not over fill the fryer.

• Be prepared - consider purchasing a fire extinguisher for safety precautions. 

SERVPRO of Northeast San Antonio wishes everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!