4 Tips for Preparing Your Home and Family for a Fire

12/8/2022 (Permalink)

Practice your escape routes

4 Tips for Preparing Your Home and Family for a Fire

House fires are a scary reality for many families, but there are a number of ways you can be prepared. By planning and practicing your escape routes, installing the right number of smoke alarms, and teaching household members how to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire, you'll be much more likely to make it out safely.

1. Plan and Practice Your Escape Routes

Everyone needs to be on the same page about how you’re getting out of the house. That means you and your family need to have a plan, and you need to practice that plan at least twice a year.

If children are old enough, they can participate in this preparation by helping with planning and practicing their escape routes with their parents—and they should definitely do so! If they’re not old enough (or if you don’t want them included), that’s OK. You can still make sure they know where they should go when there is danger or an emergency occurring in your home.

You should also have an alternative escape route in case your primary one is blocked by fire or smoke during an evacuation attempt. For example, if everyone is escaping through a window out onto the roof, but finds that it's too hot for anyone else to follow suit without getting injured or burned (or worse), then secondary exits from another room may be necessary as well.

2. Use and Test Smoke Alarms

While there is no single rule of thumb for how many smoke alarms you should have, there are some basic guidelines. The National Fire Protection Association recommends that you install one smoke alarm in each bedroom, plus one additional alarm on every level of your home. While this may seem like a lot, it's important to remember that even if you don't have children or pets living with you right now—or even if they're asleep when the fire starts—you never know who will be in the house later on.

If your home isn't currently equipped with any working smoke detectors, it's time to get started! You can purchase a do-it-yourself home protection kit from Amazon or another retailer (just search for "smoke detector"). Follow the installation instructions carefully and choose an area where it won't be obstructed by furniture or other household items. Remember: Smoke alarms should never be placed near sources of heat (such as ovens) or hazardous chemicals such as cleaning supplies.

3. Teach STOP, DROP and ROLL

There are several things to keep in mind when it comes to teaching your children the STOP, DROP and ROLL technique.

• Make sure they understand that if their clothes catch on fire, they should stop what they're doing immediately and run away from the flames.
• Give them examples of how this would work with different kinds of clothing (e.g., if you were running around in circles while wearing jeans or shorts).
• Remind them that they should not try to put out the flames themselves because doing so could cause burns on their hands or arms—it's best to get away from the flames as quickly as possible and hope someone else is there who can help.

4. Act Quickly

In a house fire, you don’t have time to think. You need to react quickly and get out as fast as possible. When seconds count, the difference between life and death could be one small decision: Do I stay or do I go?

Firefighters say that 90% of home fires are caused by human error—accidents like leaving stoves on or cigarettes unattended. But when a fire starts in your home, it can spread rapidly because many materials burn quickly and release toxic fumes that can make you dizzy or unconscious within minutes. Like all emergencies, it's important for everyone in your family to know what to do when there is a fire in the house:

Although your family will never be truly prepared for a house fire, these four simple steps can help you stay safe. If a fire does occur and you are able to escape safely, remember that there are many other resources available to assist you in the aftermath of such an incident. Your local fire department will have information about what steps must be taken next if your home catches on fire or is damaged by smoke damage from an off-site source (such as another building). You may also want to contact an insurance agent who specializes in property casualty insurance claims related to residential losses.

If your Miami home is struck by a fire, give SERVPRO of Miami Lakes a call! We will be there quickly to help you get back to normal. 

Get Quick Cleanup To Avoid Additional Damage After a Fire

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

Soot removal in a Miami Lakes, FL building.

Ways To Avoid Additional Damage After A Fire

A commercial fire is a frightening event for business owners. Not only does it put lives at risk, but it also can cause massive property damage in a short time. Once the fire has been put out, though, there are still a number of dangers to your business in Miami Lakes, FL. For starters, the facility structure is likely to be unstable, increasing the risks for slips and falls as well as the falling of heavy materials. The danger of soot inhalation is also present right after a fire. Professional fire cleanup can address these issues.

The Need To Secure the Building
Even a small fire can result in damage to windows, doors and the roofing system. This makes your building vulnerable to many sources of additional damage:

• Bad weather
• Wild animals
• Insect pests
• Vandals and thieves

Cleanup should begin with securing the building against these dangers. A professional team assesses the situation and implements tarp services if needed. This protects your building from the possibility of rains or high winds. The professionals also may board up the building in certain spots to keep people and animals out.

The Need To Work With Experts
Fire cleanup at a business calls for the services of an experienced fire restoration company. Not only can certified technicians handle all aspects of the cleanup, but they can also do it in a safe and efficient manner. They have the necessary equipment to deal with such concerns as a roof repair and to remove soot and smoke damage from your building.

In the aftermath of a fire, trained technicians can develop a plan to restore your building to its original condition. They can do this as quickly as possible while keeping an eye on doing it in an economically responsible manner. Securing the building prevents any additional damage as workers do fire cleanup and restore your building.

Developing an Effective Fire Response Plan in Your Office

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

As part of your overall contingency plan in the event of a fire, make sure everyone in your building is aware of all possible exits.

Creating A Fire-Response Plan That Works In Your Office

Are you prepared to handle emergency situations at work? You hope nothing dangerous ever arises, but it’s vital that you have plans in place to properly react when people’s lives are in danger. You need a contingency plan if a fire starts in your office. With some time and preparation, you can safely evacuate employees and even help prevent fires from starting.

Preliminary Steps

As a leader in your Miami Gardens, FL, organization, you must take safety seriously. You can never completely prevent all mishaps and disasters, but you reduce the likelihood of workplace injuries and emergencies. Consider starting with the following actions:

• Ensure you have functioning fire alarms and fire extinguishers.
  
• Ensure the electrical wiring and heating systems are up to code.
  
• Develop an evacuation plan in the event of a fire or other emergency.

Identify Exits

As part of your overall contingency plan in the event of a fire, make sure everyone in your building is aware of all possible exits, particularly those nearest to their offices and workstations. Remember, in a fire, it’s not safe to take an elevator, so stairwells and fire escape stairs are critical.

Assign Roles

It’s human nature to panic when one feels threatened and when peril ensues. It’s crucial that people remain calm and orderly proceed out of the building. To help minimize confusion and chaos, give people in your organization a job during an emergency. You need someone to guide people out of the building, someone to take a count to ensure everyone gets out of the building, a person to sweep the building to look for stragglers, and someone to call the fire department.

Have a Gathering Place

All employees in your building should know where to go once they leave the building. Designate a nearby area where everyone will gather. Be sure this is a familiar place, safely away from fire and smoke.

If you need assistance coming up with a contingency plan, expert disaster professionals are available. With the right planning, you can avoid tragedy.

How to Clean Electronics After a Fire

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

We are the masters of not only home or office restoration, but restoring belongings from fire as well. Call SERVPRO when you need it!

After A Fire, How To Clean Electronics

There’s a lot to worry about during and after a fire in your office. Next to the safety and well-being of your staff, you have concerns about the extent of damage to your equipment and supplies. Whether an electrical fire or other type of fire damaged your electronics, there are ways to minimize the problems and even restore the items.

What Can Happen?

Even minor fires in your Hialeah, FL, office can threaten your sensitive equipment. You want to act quickly to evaluate the damage. Fire and smoke damage can harm electronics in the following ways:

• Soot. Smoke will leave behind a layer of soot, which carries acidic properties. High concentrations of acid can ruin computers, printers, and other equipment.
• Smoke causes magnetic charges. You don’t want a magnetic charge to come into contact with any electric item. This can destroy circuits on any device.
  
• Overheating. Smoke can bring a nasty black film, which will settle on electronics. This can lead to overheating issues, reducing an electronic item’s life.

What Can You Do?

Your first step after an electrical fire is to unplug all electrical devices and leave them off. No matter what, don’t plug them back in or try to start them up again. This can cause further damage. Before you try to handle any of the clean-up yourself, call a trained professional. Expert fire and smoke cleanup companies can take care of damage effectively and in a timely manner.

Why Call the Pros

A professional has both the knowledge and equipment to properly handle computer cleanup. The team will use specialized methods to prevent further problems and will give you the best chance of using your computers, printers, televisions, and other devices once again.

No one wants to deal with an electrical fire. If you face this daunting task, make sure you let a competent specialist employ the right skills and training to help you out.

3 Ways To Limit Revenue Loss After a Fire

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

A fire damage restoration company can complete cleanup in less time than non-professional cleaners. Contact SERVPRO!

Three Ways To Minimize Revenue Loss Following A Fire

The damage caused by a fire and the inability of a business to operate during the restoration process can halt revenue streams. Interruption insurance coverage can compensate for lost income and cover expenses until a business is ready to reopen. Here are three ways to limit the amount of revenue lost during a business interruption due to fire.

1. Temporarily Relocate

If a business can operate out of another part of a damaged structure or a temporary location, this may limit lost revenue and get around the need to file an interruption claim. Relocation may not be possible if an enterprise relies on specialized equipment that has sustained damage in a fire or that cannot be moved.

2. File a Business Interruption Claim

If there is no way for a business to operate during fire cleanup and restoration, the owner or named insured should file an interruption insurance claim. It is a good idea to perform a business impact analysis ahead of time to ensure that the amount of coverage will be sufficient. It can take 48 to 72 hours for interruption coverage to begin. Extensions may be available in 30-day increments up to 720 days with optional endorsements.

3. Hire Fire Restoration Professionals

A fire damage restoration company can complete cleanup in less time than non-professional cleaners. Even though these services may be more expensive, they are likely to be more efficient and result in fewer persistent problems. Commercial property insurance companies also prefer to cover claims for damage that will handled by experienced professionals.

These methods can limit the amount of revenue a business loses after a fire. An interruption insurance claim may not be necessary if a business can operate out of a temporary location. If not, a claim can compensate for losses. Rely on restoration professionals to clean and rebuild a commercial property in Palm Springs North, FL

Keep Your Kids Safe - Teach Them How To Escape a Home Fire

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

Teaching your kids safety practices in case a fire erupts is one of the basics and should be done early and often.

Teach Your Children How To Escape A House Fire To Keep Them Safe.

As a parent, your number one concern is your kids’ safety. Their lives are filled with opportunity and adventures where you help plan for their protection. Why should your home be any different? Have you got an exit plan or survival plan in the event of a home fire? Have you got a plan in place for reconnecting in Miami Lakes, FL , if you get separated?

Teaching your kids safety practices in case a fire erupts is one of the basics and should be done early and often. Do it in a serious manner but try not to scare them. Make a game of it, so it becomes second nature when they are too scared to think.

Fire Safety Basics

•Teach them the basic drop, tuck and roll, and fire crawl techniques to stay low to the ground and avoid smoke inhalation.

•Practice exit routes, including how to get out of windows as a fire escape plan if there is a fire in the hallway or on the stairs.

•Teach them how to feel doors and knobs with the back of their hand to check for heat.

•Children should know not to go back inside a burning structure, no matter what - or who - got left inside.

Caring Means Preparing

Hopefully, your children will be trained well enough to be able to make a safe escape from your home, should a fire break out. If a fire does happen, get some help from professional restoration services in Miami Lakes, FL, to return your home to its pre-fire condition and help your kids feel safe again. Smoke cleaning and content cleaning can make your home feel clean and fresh again.

When it comes to your kids’ safety, you can’t be too careful. Attention to training and practicing fire drills at home can help keep them safer in a fire. Help them to learn the importance of obeying what they have been taught in an emergency situation. Make sure you have fire alarms installed and a plan for getting back together. You will all feel safer when you are better prepared.

Fire Damage: Cleaning Porous Items After a Fire

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Here we have one of our crew members working hard on a fire and smoke damage restoration project. If you need help with this, call SERVPRO.

After A Fire, How To Clean Porous Items

When you experience a fire in your business, it can be hard to assess what is salvageable. Smoke and water damage can make everything appear irreparable. You may even question if content cleaning is possible, if specialty services, like dry-cleaning, can actually make a difference. Fortunately, for your business’ bottom line, they can.

1. Carpets and Furniture

Flooring, like carpeting, and other furniture, like fabric chairs, will likely require rigorous shampooing with an industrial floor scrubber. As smoke odors are extremely strong, you may have to perform this task several times before everything begins to look and smell normal. Soaking the fabrics in a cleaning solution can speed up the process, but that depends on the severity of the damage.

2. Rugs and Clothing

Items that are removable, like area rugs, clothing or other fabric merchandise, can be taken in for dry-cleaning. There are several dry-cleaners that specialize in smoke damaged materials. The process involves steam cleaning the materials to remove the odor.

3. Walls and Other Surfaces

It may be necessary to replace drywall and other surfaces if the fire and smoke damage are too great, but some areas may be cleaned with appropriate solutions and disinfectants. It is necessary to avoid using water alone because it can spread smoke residue and soot, making the surface filtheir than before.

4. Professional Cleaners and Preventative Measures

As soot and smoke residue are finicky, hiring an emergency restoration service in the Miami Lakes, FL, area may be a better option for your business. These companies specialize in fire damage and will have access to the appropriate tools and chemicals needed for cleanup. Beyond cleanup, they can also offer advice on fireproof content storage, deciding this now will prevent damage to important documents later.

While things may seem dire, and your merchandise and business may seem irrecoverable, a proper cleanup can help boost your spirits. Dry-cleaning and floor scrubbing may prove that the damage to your property is not as terrible as you thought. Pick up that washcloth or that phone and scrub that worry away.

What Type of Smoke Alarm Is Best for My Home?

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

While some fire alarms pick up heat, the effectiveness of these models can pale in comparison to a smoke detector.

What Is The Best Type Of Smoke Alarm For My Home?

There are few more frightening experiences than a house fire. While this is the last event Palm Springs North, FL, residents likely want to think about, it is nevertheless a vital consideration. Protecting your home and the lives of everyone in the household is top priority, so look to the following different types of equipment to choose the best smoke alarm for your home.

While some fire alarms pick up heat, the effectiveness of these models can pale in comparison to a smoke detector. There are three basic types of such detectors to choose between:

• Ionization Alarms
  
  An ionized detector is generally cheaper than other types of alarms. These alarms use miniscule amounts of radioactive material to ionize the air in a small chamber in the device, allowing the air to carry an electric charge. When smoke passes through this chamber, it causes a disruption in this electrical current, which then sets off the alarm.
• Photoelectric Alarms
  
  According to most smoke alarm experts, photoelectric alarms have a smaller chance of making false alarms than their ionization counterparts. This type of fire safety device uses a light beam and a photoelectric sensor to detect smoke. While ionized alarms are usually better for spotting fast fires, photoelectric alarms typically best detect smoldering fires.
• Smart Alarms
  
  Most smart alarms use photoelectric sensors, and some even have a split-spectrum sensor for greater accuracy. Although identical to non-smart detectors in terms of basic function, a smart detector has more customized options and can send alerts directly to phones and tablets.

If you're like most homeowners in Palm Springs North, FL, you've probably wondered which device is best for your space. Whether you're well-versed in the world of smoke detectors or are just getting started, expanding your knowledge on product options is never a bad idea. Once you've chosen the proper spots in your home for a smoke alarm, you can install the right ones to protect your living space.

Tips for Cleaning After a House Fire

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

Safety is always your first priority. Do not go inside of your house until it is safe.

Cleaning After A House Fire

The good news is that you and your family are safe. The bad news is that your home in Miramar,FL suffered a blaze that caused fire, soot and smoke damage. It smells like a bonfire you cannot escape. What actions do you take next? First, go outside, take a deep breath of fresh air and relax. Your home is going to return to its previous state, but it takes time and effort. Follow these tips after a fire to start the process of recovery.

Immediately After the Fire

• Safety is always your first priority. Do not go inside of your house until it is safe. Be aware of the dangers of standing water and electricity, structural damage and risk of slipping on wetness and debris.
• Once clear to enter, be careful not to touch or walk on soiled areas. Rather, lay down clean towels to absorb the soot damage. Change the filter on your HVAC if accessible.
• Do not attempt smoke cleaning on your own, as improper techniques may set stains and odors. Fire restoration specialists are trained and have the equipment necessary to correctly clean your home and belongings.

The Cleanup Process

• Smoke damage professionals arrive quickly to assess the damage, typically in four hours or less.
• First, the structural components of your home are properly cleaned. This can include walls, ceilings, flooring and carpets. The walls are prepared for painting so that the soot damage does not retain its odor.
• Your belongings are cleaned and deodorized using a combination of specialized wet and dry cleaning. This can include furniture, electronics, rugs and other personal items.
• Sources of odors are identified and eliminated, leaving your home truly deodorized.

The combination of fire and smoke damage can wreak havoc on your home in Miramar, FL. Fortunately, with the proper steps and professional help, your home and possessions can be revitalized and restored to pre-fire condition.

Candle Tips and Alternatives for Homeowners

7/10/2021 (Permalink)

Why Do Candles Commonly Cause Fires?

Prevent a Candle Fire

Candles often cause fires in homes. To fully restore a home that has been affected by a house fire often requires time and the help of smoke cleanup and fire restoration professionals. This type of fire is more likely to occur under certain circumstances:

• Lit candles are left unattended.
• Candles aren't placed on a durable surface.
• Flammable items are positioned too close to a candle.
  
  

How Do You Safely Use a Candle in Your Home?
There are several ways you can lower the risk of a candle fire in your home:

• Make sure that flammable items are not placed near the candle.
• Ensure the candle is not within reach of children or pets.
• Blow out the candle before going to sleep or when leaving the room.
  
  

What Are Alternatives to Candles?
There are several safe candle alternatives available. If you love the scent of candles, you may like using room sprays or wax warmers. Room sprays are quick and easy to use, and wax warmers are often appealing because you can enjoy the scent of your favorite candle by placing wax from the candle into the warmer.

If you enjoy the warm glow candles give off, then you can try battery-powered candles or LED string lights. These both emit a soft glow that can create a cozy atmosphere in your home.

Consider the most effective ways to keep your home safe if you use candles there. Knowing why candles often cause fires, how to safely use a candle in your home and what are the alternatives to candles can help you to decrease the risk of a candle fire.  

Dos and Don'ts of Containing a Grease Fire

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

A grease fire in a Pembroke Pines, FL home

Dos and Don'ts of Containing a Grease Fire

A grease fire in your home in Pembroke Pines, FL, can be terrifying but it is important to remain calm to get it under control. These types of fires are very common but some typical fire safety tips do not apply in this case. Here are some of the dos and don'ts of getting it under control.

Don't Use Water
You should never use water to attempt to douse a kitchen fire. Water and oil do not mix and this will result in:

• Water sinking below the oil
  
• The heat from the fire flash-boiling the water
  
• Boiling water forcefully exploding the oil outwards
  
  

This could result in spreading the fire much further as well as severe injury to yourself.

Do Turn Off the Heat Source
A grease fire needs heat in order to continue to burn. As soon as you are safely able to, turn off the heat to the burner or stove. This will not immediately extinguish the fire but should slow it down.

Don't Move It
A fire of this nature is easily spread and you should never attempt to move it to a sink or outside. As you move it, you may splatter grease and fire around your home. There is also a potential to spill the oil onto yourself resulting in burns.

Do Try To Smother It
Fire needs oxygen to burn, so if you can remove the source of it, the fire will smother quickly. If your flames are contained in a pot or pan, attempt to get the lid on or cover it completely with a cookie sheet. If you have time, put on oven mitts to protect your hands while you do so.
When you experience a grease fire in your home, be sure to follow these tips to safely extinguish it. Afterward, seek out a fire damage assessment from a professional to help with fire cleanup.

How to Treat a Burn Injury at an Office

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

If an employee is burned in an office fire, understanding burn first aid is vital.

Tips On Treating Burn Injuries At An Office

Fire damage doesn’t just affect the structure of a building. A building fire in Hialeah, FL could injure employees, too. Any injury which occurs at the workplace should be addressed as soon as possible. If a burn injury is sustained at the workplace, it is critical to know how to treat the burn, so that an employee has the best chance at a quick and full recovery. Here are several tips for how to treat a burn injury at an office.

1. Assess the Degree of the Burn
If an employee is burned in an office fire, understanding burn first aid is vital. The first step should be to evaluate the extent and the degree of the burn. If a worker is severely burned, calling emergency services or taking the employee to a hospital should be a priority. A severe burn is one that is very deep and typically covers a large area. This type of burn requires immediate medical attention.

2. Run Cool Water Over the Burn Area
If a burn is determined to be minor, running cool water over the affected area may help calm and cool the injury. Running water over the area for approximately five minutes may be beneficial. It is important to note that ice-cold water could cause more damage to a burn due to the constriction of blood vessels. Therefore, ensure that the water being used is cool, but not freezing cold.

3. Utilize a First Aid Kit
Any sort of fire damage that occurs – whether it is to the building or an individual inside of the office – should be treated urgently. For an injury experienced by a person in a fire, a first aid kit at a workplace may be very helpful. A kit that contains bandages and special burn cream can help alleviate pain and facilitate healing. (If a building is damaged in a fire, professionals who specialize in fire restoration can help.)
Fire damage at an office is a serious issue, and this is especially true if a burn injury is sustained. However, following these steps may help an individual – and a business – to recover quickly.

Using Candle Alternatives To Reduce the Risk of Fire

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

These candle alternatives eliminate the risk of a candle fire due to their lack of flame

With an abundance of fragrances on the market, candles have become quite popular for home use in Miramar, FL. Whether you love the smell of baked goods, trees, or ocean air, you are likely to find a candle to match the scent. However, despite their calm glow and warm ambience, candles can put your home at risk of a fire if they are not under constant supervision. If you are worried about accidentally setting your home on fire, you should consider using candle alternatives.

Choosing a Substitute for Open Flame

There are plenty of great options available, including:

• Wax warmers
  
• Oil diffusers
  
• Reed diffusers
  
• Room sprays
  
  

These candle alternatives eliminate the risk of a candle fire due to their lack of flame. The open flame on a burning candle can ignite objects nearby if placed too closely and left unattended. The soft glowing light can turn loose papers or curtains into a much larger flame than you bargained for in a matter of seconds. Not only are these fires dangerous, but they can be extremely costly as well.
The alternatives listed above can be purchased at most home decorating stores, specialty shops, and spas. Their variety of fragrances is equally as abundant as their candle counterparts. If you prefer the simple lighting of unscented candles, you can opt to mimic the soft lighting with strategically placed lamps or use flameless candles with a simple on-off switch.

Restoring Your Home After a Fire
A fire can destroy your home, or at the very least, leave you with expensive repairs. Rebuilding your home and restoring it to its pre-fire condition can be very time-consuming. You will also need to call a professional fire restoration and repair service to ensure that your home is restored safely and damaged items are removed and replaced.
Candle alternatives are a great option to have in your home, and they provide many of the same fragrance and lighting benefits as candles can, with the added benefit of safety. If you can assume the responsibility of monitoring a lit candle through its lit duration, feel free to enjoy its warmth and ambience. Otherwise, keep your home and property safe with these simple substitutes.

4 Things To Look for in a Fire Restoration Company

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial soot damage

Things To Consider When Hiring A Commercial Fire Remediation Franchise

If your business in Hialeah Gardens, FL, experiences a fire, you will be in need of some quality fire damage restoration. The cleanup after a fire requires a high level of training and current knowledge of restoration techniques. In addition to destroying wood, plastic, upholstery and other materials, a commercial fire often causes soot, smoke and water damage. Here are the most important things to consider when hiring a commercial fire remediation franchise.

1. The Willingness To Help
The motto of SERVPRO professionals is they are Here to Help. You can feel confident that the company will come to your building and do what it takes to get your business back on its feet again. These experts have the ability to handle comprehensive fire damage restoration.

2. The Ability To Handle Jobs Big and Small
Every fire situation is different. Sometimes your building could be in need of a little smoke cleanup, while other times you may need a major restoration. A versatile team is able to handle both ends of the spectrum. A company with corporate resources can even bring in outside help if it is needed for a large job.

3. The Speed To Act Fast
A fire requires a rapid response. A local remediation team can get to your property and start to work in a matter of hours. Professionals will quickly make sure the building is safe by looking out for hazards such as an unstable structure and electrical dangers. They can do an inspection and assessment of the property and determine the best course of action.

4. The Knowledge To Make Things Better
Fire damage restoration is not an easy job. It demands knowledge about structural matters, electrical systems, heating and cooling systems and more. A professional team makes sure its employees are trained in the latest techniques and methods to bring your company back to its pre-fire condition. A quality franchise can handle all aspects of a restoration.

Make a Clean Gas Range Part of Kitchen Safety

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Clean your gas stovetop

If you are fortunate and own a gas range in Miramar, FL, then you know how much more enjoyable it is to cook on an open flame over an electric coil. However, keeping your gas stovetop clean is important. It could present danger if you allow grease to build up.

How To Clean Your Gas Stovetop

Range cleaning takes a little time, but it's fairly simple. Fill your sink with hot soapy water and mix one part water to one part vinegar in a spray bottle. Follow these steps:

• Place your grates in the soapy water.
  
• Spray your stovetop with the vinegar mixture and let it sit for a few minutes.
  
• Wipe down the stovetop with a rag.
  
• For old grease that's resistant, scrub it with a brush and soap.
  
• Drop the burner caps in the soapy water and scrub them and the grates clean.
  
• Remove the burner grates and clean them, too.
  
• When everything is dry, replace the parts and admire your clean range.
  
  

The Dangers of Grease Buildup
If you allow grease to build up on your stovetop, it's possible a grease fire could occur. With a gas range, it's important to know how you would respond if there was a grease fire. Never throw water on such a conflagration, as it will only make the fire worse and potentially cause more damage.
The best way to respond to a grease fire is to get everyone out of the house as quickly as possible and then call for help. A fire can grow out of control in a matter of seconds, so you likely don't have time to figure out a way to stop it. After a fire, never attempt cleanup on your own, as hazards may have become exposed. There are fire restoration professionals who can get your kitchen back to its pre-fire state.
Keep your gas range clean to keep your kitchen a safe place to enjoy cooking. If there's a smoke smell when you turn on your oven, you know it's time to clean it as well.

Fire Extinguisher Training for Your Employees

7/3/2020 (Permalink)

It’s your responsibility to properly train your employees to use a fire extinguisher

As the owner or manager of a Palm Springs North, FL, business, you have the responsibility to keep your employees safe while on the job. All businesses have the potential to be impacted by fire; therefore, it’s wise to conduct emergency training with your employees each year. In addition to providing a fire extinguisher, it’s your job to ensure that your employees know how to use it and how to otherwise respond safely. Here are some tips to help your employees effectively manage a fire emergency in the workplace.

Emergency Response Team

First, it’s imperative that you designate an emergency response team thoroughly trained to respond to potential fires. This team should be trained in the following areas:

• First aid
  
• Chemical spills
  
• Hazardous materials
  
• Search and rescue procedures
  
• Use of fire extinguishers
  
  

The emergency response team should also have contact with a clean up and restoration company. A professional company will have the knowledge, skills, and proper equipment to assist with fire damage cleanup.

Early-Stage Actions
In the case of a kitchen fire in a breakroom, there are actions that should be taken to reduce the likelihood of smoke damage. First, sound the fire alarm and call the fire department. Before approaching the fire with a fire extinguisher, identify an evacuation path should the need arise.
Next, select the appropriate extinguisher and use the P.A.S.S. technique to try to extinguish the fire. After discharging the extinguisher, back away in case of flames flare up again. Finally, evacuate immediately if the fire won’t extinguish or your extinguisher is empty.

P.A.S.S. Technique
The P.A.S.S. technique is a proven method to safely use extinguishers:

• Pull the pin
  
• Aim low and point the nozzle towards the bottom of the fire
  
• Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing substance
  
• Sweep the extinguisher from one side of the fire to the other while aiming towards the base of the fire
  
  

Steps two through four can be repeated until the fire is extinguished. However, if you or any of your employees don’t feel safe fighting the fire, evacuate immediately.
It’s your responsibility to properly train your employees to use a fire extinguisher. Adequate training will reduce the probability of harm and fire damage.

Three House Fire Prevention Tips

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

Working smoke alarms are one of the most critical components of a fire safety plan

Three House Fire Prevention Tips

You can not eliminate your risk of having a house fire, but proper fire preparation can substantially reduce that risk. These three house fire prevention tips can help you avoid a fire.

1. Install and Test Smoke Alarms
Working smoke alarms are one of the most critical components of a fire safety plan. If you do not already have smoke alarms installed, it is wise to install them. If you do, it is recommended to test them once a month. If you hear chirping sounds coming from your detectors, it is probably time to change the batteries. Most detectors need to be replaced after ten years of use.

2. Equip Your Kitchen for Safety
According to the National Fire Protection Agency, about half of all house fires start in the kitchen. Fire preparation steps you can take in the kitchen include installing a smoke detector and a fire extinguisher. Do not store flammable items, such as towels, curtains, cleaning rags, and chemicals near your stove or any other cooking appliance. Avoid leaving food unattended on the stove whenever possible.

3. Do Not Smoke or Smoke Outside
The NFA has listed smoking as the number one cause of house fire-related deaths. If you smoke, you can reduce your home fire risk by smoking outside your home and always completely putting out your cigarette and disposing of it safely, before you go back inside. Soaking your cigarette butt in water can help ensure that it is completely out. If you can not smoke outside, avoid smoking near upholstered furniture, or in bed. If someone in your home uses an oxygen tank, smoking near oxygen can be an explosion risk.
These fire preparation steps can help you avoid a house fire. However, if a fire does occur, you may wish to seek assistance from a professional fire cleanup crew in Miramar, FL, to restore your home to its previous condition.

5 Tips for Cleaning a Gas Range

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

Clean your stovetop

Five Steps In Properly Maintaining Your Stove

Having your own place in Pembroke Pines, FL comes with many opportunities for fun and freedom, but it also requires a few important responsibilities. To be safe and healthy, proper maintenance of appliances is a necessity. While a gas range does not demand a lot of attention, it is still a good practice to keep it clean and sanitary. These five steps will go a long way towards properly maintaining your stove.

Clean the Grates. This is perhaps the most basic level of range cleaning. The grates accumulate oil and grease that could catch fire, so they should be cleaned periodically. The easiest method is to take them off the range top and soak them in soap and hot water.
Clean the Stove Stop. Remove any loose crumbs or food particles with a brush or a wet dish towel. These items could catch fire and spread to more flammable items such as paper towels or curtains.
Spray With Vinegar and Water. For a more thorough cleaning of your gas range, use a mixture of vinegar and water on the range top. Let it sit, and then wipe clean. At this time, clean the stove controls and the front of the appliance.
Clean With a Small Brush. The burners and the area right next to them can get encrusted with materials. From time to time it makes sense to spend a little extra effort and take a small brush and gently work near the burners to remove debris.
Use a Vacuum. With the brush attachment, vacuum up crumbs on the range top and beneath it. This will remove any remaining debris and could reduce on smoke smell originating from leftover food.

A clean gas range will keep your kitchen clean and safe from a fire. If a fire does occur, remember to keep calm and make sure everyone is safe. If a cleanup is needed, call in a professional fire remediation team for expert services.

3 Ways To Stop Your Fire Alarm From Beeping

12/28/2019 (Permalink)

This is also an excellent opportunity to replace the battery, if necessary.

The fire alarm is an excellent asset to your home in Miami Lakes, FL. It can detect smoke and prevent fire damage from taking place. However, its useful beeping can sometimes be activated unprovoked and at inconvenient times. A result of a glitch or other mistakes, the noise is not only an annoyance, but it also reduces the device's ability to combat fires. There are certain actions you can take to stop the alarm from beeping unnecessarily and ensure its effectiveness.

Battery Change

The most common cause behind extra beeping in smoke alarms is a drained battery. This is the way the device warns you to change it. As a rule of thumb, you should replace the battery every six months, as anything longer than that can deplete it, causing the consistent chirps. Make sure to look inside the detector to see the battery type and requirements.

Eliminate Nearby Dust

While the fire alarm is meant to detect smoke damage to alert you, there are other nearby factors that can activate it. When you inspect the alarm, take a closer look at anything in the environment that could trigger it, such as the following:

Dust
Debris
Insects and arachnids
Spider webs

Use tools such as an air blower or a duster to eliminate these elements. If left alone, they will continue to activate the device or damage it, which is dangerous in case of an actual fire.

Reset the Device

A simple technique to use on any malfunctioning device, including a smoke detector, is resetting it. You can accomplish this by turning off the power to the alarm and removing the battery and power supply. Then, remove the battery and hold the test button for at least 15 seconds before putting everything back in its place and checking for beeping. 

The constant noise of your fire alarm is not only bothersome, but it can also interfere with fire prevention, leading to evacuation and residential fire cleanup. Find the reason why the device chirps incorrectly, and fix it to prolong its life.

How to Keep Your Beloved Pets Safe if Your Home Catches on Fire

10/13/2019 (Permalink)

Remember to include your pet in your fire escape plan

In a fire emergency, you’re going to be seriously pressed for time and will be under about as much stress as is possible. When you realize an active fire is in your home, having a plan and thoroughly practicing it can be the difference between life and death for you and your family – including your pets. With a few simple steps, you can dramatically increase pet safety and give them an excellent chance of surviving the fire in Palm Springs North, FL.

Think About Being Ready Now, While There’s No Pressure

With some pet preparation and a plan in place, the risks of serious injury to your pets drops considerably. Here’s what you should do in advance:

• Have all pet vaccinations and ownership records in your fire safe or safety deposit box.
  
• Include all your pets in your family plan.
  
• Practice your escape plan with your entire family, including the pets.
  
• Learn where your pets like to sleep and hide.
  
• Get your pets used to crating.
  
  
  

Your Family Plan

From the time the smoke detectors go off, you may have as little as one or two minutes to escape – every second is a jewel beyond price in a fire emergency. With plenty of smoke alarms – especially newer ones that are wirelessly linked – you can raise your time to get out. Either way, follow the National Fire Protection Association’s recommendations to create a family plan, know all the escape routes and designate a meeting place for your family.

Practice that Plan!

Animals like fire even less than people. Practice the plan, get your pets used to it with plenty of treats, and make a game of it. If you know where a stressed pet is likely to hide, you can quickly scoop them up and get out. If you have time, get them into crates.

Hopefully, everyone is safe, and your home has survived the fire emergency. Once the fire is out, contact an experienced restoration company in Palm Springs North, FL, to board up the house and begin the fire damage cleanup, so you can get your home back to its previous condition.

How To Test Home Fire Alarms

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

Periodic testing increases the likelihood that safety equipment will operate as intended in the event of a fire.

A residential fire safety plan should factor in the number and placement of fire alarm devices in a home. Follow these three steps to test fire alarms at your home in Hialeah, FL, and determine whether additional equipment could increase occupant safety and reduce the risk of major fire damage.

Step 1: Check Alarm Count
Residences should have a fire alarm on each floor. The National Fire Protection Agency also recommends installing an alarm outside of each bedroom or sleeping area. A two-story home with two bedrooms or sleeping areas would need two to four fire alarms. It is also a good idea to install and maintain alarms in basements or attics.
Step 2: Press the Test Button
Whether you rely on battery-powered or hardwired alarms or smoke detector designs, these safety devices come with test features. If the device or system does not emit sound, it may be necessary to replace batteries or check wiring.
Step 3: Confirm Alarm Locations
While an alarm is beeping, you can check the range of the sound. If you cannot hear a sleeping area alarm in your bedroom, another smoke alarm or a connected hardwired or smart system that activates all of the alarms at once may be helpful for promoting safety.

By taking these steps, you can make sure that your home has the amount of alarms recommended by the NFPA and other fire safety authorities. Situating alarms in critical locations or upgrading to a hardwired or smart fire alarm system may allow more time for evacuation or extinguishing efforts. A blaze may still break out and cause fire and smoke damage or a total loss. For an expert opinion and accurate all-in-one estimate, consult with damage mitigation and restoration specialists in Hialeah, FL. Visit https://www.SERVPROmiamilakes.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration for more information on fire tips.