Protect Your Home From Brush Fires

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

Protect your home from brush fires by creating a defensible space around your home.

SERVPRO of Scottsdale is here to remind you that fire damage caused by brush fires are a very real danger during the hot summer months. According to the City of Phoenix, “brush fires consume hundreds of homes in the Brush/Urban Interface” Many factors can contribute to brush fires occurring such as people throwing cigarettes on the ground, sparks from vehicles, and lightning strikes. As a homeowner or businessowner, it’s better to be safe by taking into account any dry vegetation near your property by creating a defensible space around your property and having a plan in place. Here are a few tips to consider:

• Keep vegetation such as grass, tress, bushes maintained by regularly trimming and mowing.
• Remove any dead vegetation or overgrowth.
• Maintain an area of about 15 feet around your home.
• Do not park your vehicles on dead brush.
• If you smoke, do not throw lighted cigarettes on the ground.

Maintaining a defensible space around your home can help safeguard your home if a brush fire were to occur nearby.  Be sure to stay informed by monitoring community news or social media so you are well aware of news relevant to your community.

July 4th Firework Safety

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Practice firework safety this July 4th!

Outdoor barbecues, sparklers, fireworks and good ol’ family time are just some of the activities many Americans will be taking part in for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday. It is a time where many families will celebrate our country’s independence and partake in colorful firework displays that will light up the sky and dazzle the eyes of many.

According to the National Safety Council, “fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires each year, including 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires and nearly 17,000 other fires” (nsc.org). When it comes to fireworks, Scottsdale residents must heed caution as Arizona law states that “the only legal fireworks are actually firecrackers and ground explosives.” Fireworks being used in a hot and dry desert climate are dangerous as dry brush can easily catch on fire and threaten nearby homes and businesses. Here are some firework safety tips that Arizona residents should exercise this July 4^th holiday.

Firework Safety Tips

• Have a fire extinguisher or water on hand.
• Never use illegal fireworks.
• Supervise children when they are handling fireworks.
• Do not use fireworks if you are impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• Do not light fireworks indoors.
• Use fireworks in a safe location that is away from your home and any flammable material.
• Never point or throw lighted fireworks at anyone.
• If a firework is not working, do not attempt trying to relight it.

Safety Tips For Outdoor Grilling

5/27/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Scottsdale would like to wish you a Happy Memorial Day weekend.

Memorial Day is next Monday, May 30^th which means many Americans and their families will be commemorating the holiday weekend. Memorial Day is a day for many to remember and honor military personnel who’ve lost their lives. During this time, many will be spending time with their loved ones. SERVPRO of Scottsdale would like to provide you with some grilling safety tips. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA.org), the United States averages about 8,700 grill and BBQ fires per year.

Grilling Safety Tips

• Place your grill on an area that is flat and stable and at least 10 feet away from your home.
• Make sure there is no dead brush or grass around your grilling area.
• Be sure to have a fire extinguisher on hand and you know to properly use it.
• Use a grill brush to clean off any excess grease and food buildup.
• If you are using a gas grill, check for any gas leaks by applying a soap and water mixture to the hose that connects the propane tank to the grill. When doing this, look for any bubbles which could indicate wear and tear and require a replacement.
• Use caution when using lighter fluid and don’t go overboard when using it.
• Do not leave the grill unattended to, be sure that someone is always nearby.

We hope that by applying these simple steps to your weekend barbecuing, you can avoid a potential fire from occurring. 

Water Damage From Fire

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help make it "Like it never even happened."

Have you ever dealt with fire damage on your residential or commercial property? No matter the size, a fire on your property is devastating. From smoke damage to blackened and damaged walls and belongings, you can be left to wonder what to do next, especially when you’re left with unexpected water damage that is left behind once the fire department leaves.

Depending on the size of the fire, lots of water can be required to make sure the flames are fully extinguished. This can leave water everywhere, soaking your property and belongings. When this happens, give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call.

SERVPRO can deal with fully drying out the moisture left behind once the fire department leaves as well as beginning the fire damage cleanup. 

SERVPRO of Scottsdale is always here to help! Give us a call at 480-998-7989 to learn more

Deep Fryer Turkey Safety

11/23/2021 (Permalink)

Be safe this Thanksgiving when it comes to deep frying a turkey.

When you think of Thanksgiving, what’s the first thing that crosses your mind? Turkey? We think so too! Each year, families gather around the table with turkey and other delicious foods to celebrate a day of thanks with cherished loved ones. Thanksgiving is just a few short days away which means it’s a great time to review safety when it comes to deep frying a turkey. According to the National Fire Protection Association, “deep fryer fires cause an average of 5 deaths, 60 injuries and more than $15 million in property damage each year” (nfpa.org). Here are some tips to remember when it comes to frying a turkey for the dinner table.

Safety Tips

• Only use a turkey fryer outdoors and make sure it is a safe distance away from your home as well as other building structures and flammable items such as trees and shrubbery.
• Do not allow children or pets near the fryer.
• Never leave the fryer unattended.
• Do not overfill the fryer with oil.
• Use heat resistant gloves when handling the fryer to avoid any burns.
• Make sure the turkey is completely thawed out. Putting a frozen turkey in hot oil cam cause oil to spillover and could potentially start a fire.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

Candle Safety 101

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

Use caution when using candles this fall season.

September 22^nd marks the first day of fall and you know what that means! It’s time to change it up a little and give your home a nice and cozy autumn ambiance to welcome the changing season. Candles are a hit as they can add a nice decorative touch to your living space as well as adding a nice autumn scent to make for a calming atmosphere. Candles can add a nice touch to your space but using them requires attention as well as knowledge of the potential dangers that they can pose.

Here are some tips SERVPRO of Scottsdale has put together for you to consider when using candles in your home.

• Never leave a lit candle unattended. Always make sure you are in the same room. If you must leave a room, it’s better to be safe than sorry by putting out the flame.
• Place the candle on a secure surface so that it the candle won’t easily topple over or be knocked down.
• Situate the candle away from any flammable objects such as curtains, paper or any flammable liquids.
• Watch your children and pets when a candle is being used to prevent it from being knocked over.
• Do not touch or move a candle when it is lit as the candle itself can be hot to the touch causing you to accidentally drop.
• Always know where your fire extinguishers are located and know how to use it. You also want to make sure that you test your smoke alarms regularly to ensure that they are working properly.

Brush Fire In Scottsdale

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

Take care of the areas around your home to protect from brush fires that can occur nearby.

Wildfire season is here in Arizona. As of July 27^th, there are 16 active fires in Arizona according to the U.S. Forest Service. It only takes one spark, a cigarette butt thrown out of a car window, or a dragging chain from a vehicle, for a flame to ignite among dry brush. High winds can add fuel to a brush fire and cause devastation by spreading rapidly and destroying everything in its path. Last month, a brush fire that occurred overnight in Avondale, threatened nearby homes forcing many families to flee their homes as a safety precaution. Luckily, this brush fire was put out by the fire department before it caused any structural damage.

SERVPRO Scottsdale provided some brush fire readiness tips below:

• Maintain a 30 foot safety area around your home.
• Take care of the outside area surrounding your home by trimming trees and shrubs and remove any dead vegetation and dry overgrowth.
• Keep you’re your lawn mowed and maintained.
• Be mindful of where you park your vehicle as a parked vehicle near dry brush can cause a spark.
• Have a plan in place with your family that includes escape routes and safe meeting locations in the event of a brush fire.
• Be alert and stay informed by monitoring the news, social media, and having emergency alerts on your phone so you can be aware of when it is time to evacuate your home.

National Safety Month - Fire

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

June is National Safety Month! Practice safety while cooking to prevent a fire from occurring.

June is National Safety Month. As a homeowner, it is important to recognize and minimize your risks when it comes to fires. Cooking is among the leading causes of home fires so you want to do all you can to minimize the risks in your home. Here are some tips to consider adding into your cooking routine.

• Use extra caution or avoid using the stove or oven if you are overly tired or if you have consumed a few alcoholic beverages.
• Do not leave the kitchen unattended while you are cooking. It only takes a few seconds for a spark to turn into flames that can quickly spread.
• While using the oven, check the food frequently as grease or oil splatters from the food can lead to a grease fire in your oven.
• Keep easily flammable items away from the hot oven and stovetop such as towels, dish cloths and pot holders.

As a homeowner, you want to do your absolute best to minimize the risks when it comes to home fires because what can start as a small grease fire can quickly spread and destroy your home. According to the National Safety Council, “over the past several decades, deaths from home fires in the U.S have steadily gone down – from 5,200 in 1980 to 2,820 in 2018.” Although this is great news, one death is still too many so do all you can to practice safety when it comes to cooking.

Memorial Day 2021

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Avoid a potential fire from occurring by following these grilling safety tips!

Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day is just around the corner and you know what that means! Backyard bbq’s and gathering with friends and family. After a whirlwind of a year due to Covid-19 and with vaccines being available to the general population, people are now starting to reconnect and socialize with their loved ones after a tumultuous year of lockdowns and social distancing guidelines. SERVPRO of Scottsdale would like for you to practice grilling safety with these simple tips.

Grilling Safety Tips

• Make sure you place your grill outside and far away from your home or any overhead structures.
• Choose a spot that is flat and stable.
• Make sure there are no weeds, trees or shrubbery around your grilling area. It only takes a tiny spark for flames to spread among dry weeds.
• If you’re using a gas grill, check the gas tank for any leaks in the gas tank hose. This is done by applying a light mixture of soap and water over the hose and looking for any areas where the mixture may be bubbling up. Also be aware of any smells as this could also indicate a leak.
• Clean the grill by using a grill brush to clean off any grease build up to prevent a grease fire from occurring.
• Have a fire extinguisher on hand just in case. Baking soda is useful as well in the event of a grease fire.
• If you are using a charcoal grill, do not apply lighter fluid to open flames. When using lighter fluid, apply it to the charcoal before it is lit.
• Never leave the grill unattended.
• Always watch your pets and children around a grill to avoid accidentally knocking the grill over.
• If you are using a charcoal grill, make sure you are nearby to ensure that the charcoal cools down before disposing of it properly.

We Can Help With Fire Damage Cleanup

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

Do you need fire and smoke damage cleanup in your home? Give us a call at 480-998-7989 to learn about how we can help you.

Your home is your sanctuary, a place that houses your precious keepsakes and memories, as well as providing a safe space for you and your loved ones. It is a place where you can kick off your shoes and relax after a long day at work and where family gathers around the table for dinner, conversation, and laughs. But when a home fire takes place, this disrupts everything

Dealing with a fire in your home can be a very scary and traumatic experience when your living space is affected, and you face the unknown of what lies ahead. SERVPRO of Scottsdale is here to guide you along the way and to help you with the fire damage cleanup and restoration process so that you begin the process of moving forward and restoring your home.

Give us a call at 480-998-7989 if your home is in need of fire and smoke damage cleanup.    

Fire Damage Also Means Water Damage

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

After the fire trucks leave, call the company that is the industry leader in fire and water restoration

Fire And Water Damage 

Fires big and small can create severe fire damage to your North Scottsdale, AZ, business. Along with charred belongings, soot-covered walls and lingering smoke odors, there is another issue that will need to be addressed: water damage.

Damage Expectations
Depending on their size, extinguishing those flames may require a fire hose shooting out hundreds of gallons of water. While it’s vital to get the fire out, that water will saturate your property and belonings. Recovering from both issues means an extensive cleanup. After the flames are out and your insurance provider is called, below are potential requirements that may be needed to get things back to normal.

Mold Mitigation – Mold spores can begin to grow and spread within 48 hours.
Wood Damage – Porous materials will absorb the water, which could result in floors or furniture warping and buckling.
Ceiling and Drywall Issues – Both the water and fire can damage ceiling tiles and drywall, potentially creating a perfect location for hidden mold to grow.
Electrical Integrity – Wiring, outlets and electronics exposed to water could pose another fire risk.
Dry Time – Air circulation will be key to drying out any water-logged belongings and structural components.

Professional Help
The combination of water and fire damage may feel overwhelming, especially when getting operations going again is vital to the success of your business. Instead of tackling everything on your home, let a fire, water and mold damage restoration professional handle the situation. As a one-stop shop for all forms of damage, they will have certified technicians that have the expertise and tools to properly complete the needed repairs. Along with repairs, they have advanced techniques to clean and salvage many items, including documents, furniture, textiles and furniture.
The effects of fire damage can hurt a business’s bottom line. Get help that is Faster to Any Size Disaster to address all the issues and ease the process.

Reasons To Board Up a Home With Fire Damage

9/24/2020 (Permalink)

Board up services to a home in Scottsdale, AZ after fire damage

A home ravaged by flames is in need of quick-fire restoration services. No matter how efficiently technicians work, however, they can't be present all the time. Board up services offer several protections during the mitigation process.

Protection From Additional Damage

After a fire, your home in Scottsdale, AZ, probably has a few gaping holes in areas that are typically covered. Leaving these holes open exposes your home to several risks:

• Weather elements
  
• Vandalism
  
• Animal invasion
  
• Theft
  
  

When you leave your home vulnerable to these potential problems, you may soon have more damage that needs repair. If people with nefarious intentions get into your home, they could steal or destroy anything from personal belongings to your pipes or wires. Emergency board up services can keep you from suffering a greater loss than you already have.

Protection of Insurance Coverage
Insurance is designed to cover losses that are outside your control. Your homeowner's policy likely covers most if not all of the fire damage to your home. If you do not board up your house, however, any additional issues that result from that decision are unlikely to be covered by your policy. Insurance providers usually view such omissions as negligence because taking the appropriate measures to protect your home could have prevented the subsequent damage.

Protection From Liability
You may not think that anyone would try to enter a home that is clearly damaged and thus possibly unsafe, but passersby may see the open spaces in your home as an invitation. If people do enter your home through an opening that you left unobstructed, they may get hurt. They can then sue you for damages and possibly even win their case because you did nothing to keep them out. Boarding up your home minimizes this risk.
There are several reasons to use professional board up services when your home is damaged by a fire. Remembering this step can protect you, your home and others.

Understanding How a Fire Can Affect Your Building's Roof

7/8/2020 (Permalink)

Roof collapsed due to fire damage in a building in Scottsdale, AZ

If a fire in your business in Scottsdale, AZ  has caused extensive damage to the roof of your building in Scottsdale, AZ, immediate action must be taken to keep everyone safe and to prevent further damage to your building and everyone inside. While any harm caused by a fire required professional attention, structural damage to your building creates a hazardous situation for anyone located nearby and should be addressed by a fire cleanup specialist who can take the right steps to create a secure environment and mitigate the damage.

How a Fire Can Damage Your Building’s Roof

There are several factors that can cause extensive damage to your roof, causing roofing materials to warp due to heat or leading to large holes. Smoke, soot, extreme heat, and flames can all cause harm, requiring the need for either a roof repair or a complete replacement. In more severe fires, it is also common for firefighters to create a hole in the roof to help ventilate the building.

What To Do If Your Roof Is Damaged
After a fire, if you observe obvious damage to your building’s roof, take the following steps right away:

Evacuate: In case pieces of debris fall or the entire roof collapses, make sure everyone gets out of the building and no one returns until a fire cleanup professional says it is safe to do so.
Call for Help: Lingering smoke, soot, and water damage can take an already bad situation and make it increasingly worse. In the case of a damaged roof, tarp services are needed before any repairs can be made.
Contact Your Insurance: As soon as you know help is on the way, call your insurance company to receive further instructions and learn what remediation services are covered.

While a burnt roof can be a scary situation for business owners, a fire cleanup crew can secure your roof and help make your building like new again. Always be cautious in this situation and place the safety of you, your staff, and your customers first.

Types of Smoke Detectors and Where to Put Them

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

This type of smoke alarm quickly takes flaming fires

A small fire can quickly grow and spread, making it vital to be alerted to the problem as quickly as possible. Protecting your family and North Scottsdale, AZ, home means ensuring you have the right type of smoke alarm in the right location. As the first line of defense regarding fire safety, it is important to understand alarm basics.

Types of Alarms

There are different kinds of fires, which means you may need a different type of smoke detector in certain areas of the home.

Ionization: This type quickly takes flaming fires. A minute amount of radioactive material sits between two electrically charged plates. This creates a current between the plates. If smoke enters it, the electric flow is disrupted, which activates the alarm. Since these are sensitive to smoke, that can be accidentally set off if placed while cooking.
Photoelectric: Best-suited for smoldering fires, they have a sensing chamber that has a light source aimed away from the actual sensors. Once smoke enters the chamber, light is reflected and triggers the alarm. These more quickly detect smoke, making them suitable for kitchen placement.
Combination: Some alarms are available that feature both technologies, which makes them a great choice for bedrooms.
Smart Alarms: Technology has allowed for the three types of alarms to be interconnected and easily accessed through an app, along with other high-tech perks.

Alarm Placement
So, where should a smoke alarm be placed? It is recommended that one be located on each floor of the home, as well as inside each bedroom. There should also be one in the attic, basement, and garage. They should be at least 10 feet from cooking appliances, as well as away from windows, doors, and air ducts. The size of your home should also be considered. In general, a smoke alarm covers a radius of 21 feet and approximately 1,385 square feet.
When an emergency arises, quick action and detection is imperative for everyone’s safety. Ensuring you have a smoke alarm in recommended locations boosts the safety factor. Once everyone is safe, you can leave the property damage to a fire and smoke restoration expert.

What to Know About Salvaging Belongings After a Fire

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

House fires can be devastating. Not only do you have to deal with the fire damage, but many possessions and furniture can be ruined by soot and smoke. Luckily, dry-cleaning, as well as other types of cleaning methods, can restore many of your belongings.

A few things to know about the content cleaning process.

Damaged Content Must Be Thoroughly Cleaned

Soot can be toxic and harm your respiratory system, if inhaled. Other materials that are exposed to flames can release harmful chemicals into the air that can be detrimental to your health. So, don’t just throw soot-covered clothing into the washing machine. Clothing and other possessions must be treated properly to eliminate all soot and smoke. It’s best to go to professionals who can help you by dry-cleaning or properly washing your valuables.

Act Quickly

Smoke can cause permanent damage to valuables in as soon as 24 hours. If you have items of sentimental value, you should get those cleaned and restored as soon as possible to reduce the amount of damage. Documenting and cataloging everything that was damaged can help you prioritize valuables and get them cleaned quickly. Then, you can take care of content storage at the same time.

Proceed Wisely

After such a disaster has occurred, you might feel the need to help professionals in Scottsdale, AZ in any way possible.

Some steps you can take might include:

* Giving the experts any information that they might need

* Ventilating your home

* Covering soot-free carpets or furniture with plastic to prevent damage during the restoration process

House fires are scary, but the fire damage and content cleaning can be taken care of when you have the right information and expert help available. Valuables and belongings can be repaired through dry-cleaning, vacuuming, and professional restoration. By being aware of what needs to be done, you can salvage many of your possessions. 

What Happens To Your Home’s Contents After a Fire

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen cabinet fire loss in North Scottsdale, AZ

When a family suffers the trauma of a home fire, life can feel very chaotic. The sense of urgency and danger may soon give way to despair and concern as you see the burned and water ravaged interior of your once clean and organized home. What will become of all of you belongings? Will life ever be the same? From dry-cleaning to disinfecting, there may be hope for many of the items damaged.

How Can Your Contents be Saved?

Along with fire and water damage, you may notice a good deal of smoke odor and sooty residue. There are experts in fire and water salvage and restoration in North Scottsdale, AZ, that can help you sort through and rescue whatever can be cleaned. The following may explain better how this is done.

Many fabrics, such as clothing, curtains, etc., can be salvaged through dry-cleaning, which contains solvents that can remove stains and odor
Non-porous items may be cleaned and disinfected if they are not melted or significantly damaged by the heat
Electronics exposed only to smoke may possibly be cleaned and repaired

Upholstered furnishings, carpets and other porous and items that cannot be dry-cleaned may need to be discarded and replaced. Decisions will need to be made on a case-by-case basis. All contents possible will be salvaged. It is likely that many structural materials will need to be replaced.

What Happens to Items That Have Been Cleaned?
Once content cleaning has been undergone, the items can be put into content storage while the home repairs are taking place. This allows items that have been cleaned and disinfected to be placed where they can be free from re-contamination. This may be a gradual process, but it gives a safe and secure location for your possessions until your home is livable again.
A house fire is never a pleasant experience and can leave people quite unsettled. It might provide some comfort to displaced family members, however to know that through dry-cleaning and other processes, many of their items could be saved.

How To Put Out a Grease Fire

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Grease fire can spread quickly, keep your stove tops clean

That home-cooked meal may taste good; however, it could put your property at risk, especially during times when oil is involved. After all, when hot, this liquid has the tendency to fly, burning the chef and possibly starting flames. If this happens, you'll need to react quickly and understand appropriate safety protocols. Grease fire, in fact, requires special care; therefore, homeowners in Scottsdale, AZ, should know the proper steps to smother it.

1. Be Prepared

Oil and water don't mix, and this combination does not help put out blaze. Instead, stock your home with a fire extinguisher designed to halt the combustion. Three are three types of devices: A, B and C. Usually level B, contains chemicals to end oil fires. Check the label on the canister, ensuring you have purchased the correct one. Then, locate a spot to store it, thinking about ease of use. You want to be able to grab it quickly. Also, as you cook, think prevention. Don't keep towels or other cloth items within the vicinity of the stove. You don't want sparks to land on it.

2. React Quickly

At the first sign of a problem, seek ways to cut off the oxygen supply. Without the gas, the flames cannot build. Turn off the burner or oven. Then, grab a metal cover and place it on top, hoping to eliminate the situation. Grease fire may also be stopped with baking soda and salt. Be careful with this attempt though. The wrong ingredient could make it worse. If these early attempts fail, try the extinguisher, remembering to pull the pin and aim low, moving it from side to side.

3. Get Help

If you cannot handle the situation, then leave the room and call 911 for help. Next, call a fire restoration company, and have them evaluate kitchen, determining the extent of fire cleanup and needs for repairs. The specialists have equipment to remove smoke and soot, as well as deodorize the room. In addition, they can assist in salvaging some valuables.

Be proactive. Grease fire can spread quickly. Understand what can extinguish the flames and know how to proceed.

How To Prevent a Home Fire

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Having the right number of smoke alarms for your house size is important

How To Prevent a Home Fire

Being a homeowner in Rio Verde, AZ, comes with many benefits as well as significant responsibilities, especially regarding your family’s safety and well-being. It’s important to keep the house updated structurally to ensure it maintains its value, while also putting fire safety infrastructure in place or developing simple habits which help to avoid costly damage or disasters such as a home fire.
There are many things you and your family can do in regard to fire preparation, so you can have a little extra peace of mind.

Smoke Alarms: Having the right number of smoke alarms for your house size is important. Some people suggest installing one in each room, plus one outside of the bedrooms and on each floor of the home. It is also critical that you test them regularly to ensure they are working and replace the batteries each year.

Cook Safely: Kitchen fire preparation is essential in any home. Keep an eye on food when using the stove and stay inside when using the oven or any other heat-producing cooking appliance. Make sure pets will not jump onto cooking surfaces and keep flammable items a safe distance away. If a small fire starts in a pan with oil, use a lid to cover it and turn the burner off, and do not use water.

Appliances: Keep all your appliances in good working order, especially heaters and furnaces. Make sure wiring and extension cords are in good shape as well and be careful not to overload them.

In the worst-case scenario, if your fire preparation falls short, plan an emergency route out of the house. Especially for families with young children, it is a great learning opportunity to teach them what it means when a fire alarm goes off and how to leave the house if there is an emergency. Setup a planned escape route and determine a meeting area outside the house, then practice twice each year. You might even consider having essential supplies easily accessible to grab on the way out the door.
If your home goes through some fire damage, contact a professional fire restoration company to put your home back to the way it was and to restore as many of your belongings as possible.

Smell Natural Gas? These Tips May Save Your Life

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

A gas fire can be extremely dangerous

Many people assume that natural gas explosions are a thing of the past, back when regulations weren't as strict as they are today. However, the truth is that gas fires continue to occur at an alarming rate and, sadly, they often result in much more dire consequences than fire damage. You can prevent a gas fire by recognizing the signs of a gas leak.

Determine if Your Home Utilizes Natural Gas

Before you learn the signs of a gas leak, you should determine which aspects of your home use natural gasses. You may be at risk for a gas leak if any of the following appliances use the natural commodity:

• Your oven
  
• Your hot water heater
  
• Your AC unit
  
• Your fireplace
  
• Your clothes dryer
  
• Your heating system
  
  

If any of your appliances run on gas, invest in gas detectors and remain vigilant for signs of a gas leak.
What To Do If You Suspect a Gas Leak
A gas leak can quickly lead to a gas fire which can quickly lead to a gas explosion. For this reason, it is imperative that you recognize the signs of a leak and take proper measures to prevent disaster:

1. Check the Stove: If it's safe to do so, walk over to your stove to make sure all the burners are off.
   Open the Doors and Windows: If you cannot find the source of the leak, open all the doors and windows to help the gasses escape.
   
2. Don't Flip Any Switches: A light switch can cause a spark, which can cause an explosion. Keep all the lights off if you suspect a gas leak.
   
3. Shut Off Your Gas Meter: If you don't know where your gas meter is located, now's the time to find it. If you smell gasses, locate the meter and turn it off.
   
   

A gas fire can be extremely dangerous. For this reason, the best thing you can do if you suspect a gas leak is to leave your home ASAP and call 911. If a fire does occur, a North Scottsdale,AZ, fire damage cleanup crew can help with the restoration process.

3 Reasons Your Business Needs Fire Insurance

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Fires are very common source of damage and can come from faulty wiring

3 Reasons Your Business Needs Fire Insurance

While it may be tempting to save a bit of money by not purchasing fire insurance for your company in Rio Verde, AZ, this could end up costing you big in the long run. In case of an emergency, you want to have as much financial protection as you can. If you are leaning toward skipping this policy, here are a few things that might change your mind.

1. Fires Are a Common Cause of Property Damage

You may think that you are careful enough to avoid causing a fire in your building, but being careful is not always enough. Fires are a very common source of damage to both homes and commercial buildings and can come from a variety of sources, from candles to faulty wiring to old or damaged equipment. Because of this, fire insurance is a great investment for any business owner.

2. Repairs Can Be Extensive

Because they can spread quickly, fires can cause quite a bit of damage to your company’s building. Not only can it weaken, and sometimes destroy, portions of the structure, it can ruin the property inside as well. It can cost a lot of money to repair and replace these items along with restoring the building. Fire insurance can cover most, if not all, of these costs.

3. You May Lose Business

During the fire and smoke cleanup process, you may not be able to use your building to conduct business. Because you cannot operate as you usually would, you can lose valuable business time and profits. Having insurance will keep you from losing even more money and will help you to have repairs finished more quickly.
If you experience a fire in your building, contact a fire restoration company as soon as possible. They will be able to perform any necessary cleanup and repairs to return your business to its prior condition, so you can get back to work quickly.

The 6 Steps of the Fire Damage Restoration Process

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot damage in a North Scottsdale, AZ bedroom

Steps the Restoration Specialists Will Take After You Contact Them

After a home fire, you might feel as if there is no hope for recovery when you see the damage that has occurred to your home and belongings. Fortunately, a house fire isn’t always the end of line for your home. By calling a fire restoration company, your home in North Scottsdale, AZ, and many of your belongings can be restored to their pre-fire condition. Here are the steps the restoration specialists will take after you contact them.

1. Home Inspection

The fire damage restoration specialist will begin by entering your home and assessing how much damage has occurred. They will then be able to determine exactly what needs to be done to restore your home.

2. Board-Up and Roof-Tarp

Before the restoration team can safely begin working on your home, they will to board up any missing doors and windows and place tarp on any damaged portions of your roof.

3. Water Removal

Firefighters use a lot of water to put out large house fires, and extremely hot temperatures can cause pipes to burst and flood your home. Before addressing any fire damage that has occurred, the fire restoration specialists will use special equipment to remove any remaining water.

4. Smoke and Soot Removal

Lingering smoke and soot can continue to damage the structure of your home and your belongings if not quickly addressed. To prevent further smoke damage, the restoration team will remove all signs of smoke and soot.

5. Damage Cleaning

Once all water and smoke has been removed from your home, the restoration specialists will sanitize surfaces and structures in your home and clean any of your salvageable belongings. They’ll also completely deodorize your house.

6. Restoration

Lastly, the restoration specialists will make any necessary repairs, large or small, to restore your home to its pre-fire condition.

With the help of fire restoration specialists, you’ll be able to return to your home with many of your treasured belongings in no time.

Five Tips for Safely Using Candles in Your Home

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Don´t leave candles unattended in your Scottsdale, AZ home

Five Tips for Safely Using Candles in Your Home

Candles can provide a warm and cozy atmosphere in your Scottsdale, AZ home, but they can also be the cause of significant damage. A candle fire can easily become an emergency, so keep these tips in mind when using them in your home.

1. Keep Candles Away From Flammable Objects
When you are burning a candle, be sure not to use it too close to anything that could catch fire. You should place candles at least a foot away from curtains, bedding, papers, and other flammable objects. You should be especially cautious of highly flammable liquids.

2. Don’t Leave Burning Candles Unattended
While it may seem like a hassle to extinguish the candle every time you may leave the room, it is unsafe to leave it burning unattended. If a fire were to start while you were out of the room, it could spread quickly before you return.

3. Keep Pets and Children Away From Lit Candles
If you have children and pets in your household, it is important to keep them away from any lit candles. As well as injuring themselves, a young child or pet might cause a candle fire by accidentally knocking it over.

4. Only Place Candles in Containers Specifically Made for This Use
You should never use a candle in a container that was not made to be used with them. A container that is not heat resistant could melt or burst, resulting in a fire.

5. Consider Using Candle Alternatives
Because fire can be devastating to your home and smoke cleanup can be difficult, using a candle alternative can be a great choice. Instead of using candles during a power outage, you should use a flashlight or other battery-operated light. For daily use, there are battery-powered candles that can give you the same ambiance as a burning candle without the safety risk.

Although candles are a commonly used item, a candle fire can cause a lot of damage. A fire restoration company can help after an emergency, but you should be sure to follow these tips to keep your home safe.

What Happens When Fire and Water Damage Combine?

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage in North Scottsdale, AZ

Fire damage can destroy building materials and contents. Standing water introduced by fire suppression efforts may cause flooring and furniture to warp and lead to mold growth. Each type of damage intensifies the other, giving rise to a situation that may be difficult for homeowners to remedy. Restoration professionals can repair and restore damage caused by this combination of factors.

Damage Caused By Fire

Fire burns building materials and contents in a structure, causing damage due to excessive heat and exposure to smoke. This type of damage calls for specialized mitigation methods, including:

• Removing ash and soot
  
• Repairing or replacing materials and contents
  
• Eliminating smoke damage
  

Cleanup and restoration should take place as soon as possible after a fire. The presence of water left over from fire suppression efforts may cause a delay.

Damage Caused by Water

A fire hose can dispense anywhere from 300 to 800 gallons of water per minute. Cleaning up after a fire has been extinguished may involve:

• Pumping out standing water
  
• Cleaning ash and soot residue
  
• Drying and dehumidifying
  

It is necessary to remove water before fire damage restoration can proceed. Restoration experts can do so quickly to limit the amount of combined damage and the risk of mold growth.

Combined Damage

Fire and water damage can ruin delicate or porous contents and materials. The following measures may be necessary:

• Tearing out and replacing building materials
  
• Using specialized content cleaning methods
  
• Taking measures to prevent corrosion or rot
  

The presence of both types of damage can pose a challenge to homeowners. It is best to hire a mitigation and restoration company to get the job done.

Fire damage and water damage are likely to be present after a fire at a home in North Scottsdale, AZ. It is important to act quickly to clean up and mitigate both types of damage to prevent conditions from worsening.

Factors To Consider When Finding the Right Fire Extinguishers

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

A fire extinguisher can prevent major damage to your home in Scottsdale, AZ.

A fire extinguisher can quickly stop a home fire and prevent your home in Scottsdale, from sustaining major damage. However, there are various types of extinguishers, and it’s important to have the right ones in your home so you can react appropriately if a fire occurs.

1. The Extinguisher’s Location

When choosing an extinguisher, you should consider where the extinguisher will be located. Different locations are prone to different types of fires, and this calls for specific kinds of extinguishers. It is also important to remember that every floor needs an extinguisher, and each extinguisher should be placed in a convenient location. Keeping one in an awkward or hard-to-reach location could give a fire time to become unmanageable. The extinguisher must be easy to access in order to be of use.

2. The Type of Potential Fire

Having a fire extinguisher that can be used on different types of fires is a key part of fire preparedness. In a kitchen, having an extinguisher that can handle grease fires is wise, as grease fires often occur when cooking. However, an extinguisher that is meant to stop grease fires should not be used in an electrical fire. Often, purchasing an extinguisher that can stop different types of fire is the best option.

3. The Amount of Space To Protect

Just as you want to have an extinguisher that can protect you from a certain type of fire, you should have an extinguisher that can appropriately cover the area in which it’s located. Extinguishers can range from two pounds to ten pounds in size. For smaller areas, a two-pound extinguisher may be appropriate. For spaces that are not as constrained, a ten-pound extinguisher is preferable.

Ultimately, a fire extinguisher can prevent your home from being damaged and keep you safe. If your home has experienced fire damage, it can be beneficial to work with experts in fire restoration who can help repair your home.

Prevent Kitchen Fires

9/10/2018 (Permalink)

Let’s be honest, not all of us are a “Top Chef” when it comes to cooking in the kitchen. With food delivery services on the rise, we’re able to have a prepared meal delivered right to our door without ever having to leave the comforts of our home. And let’s not forget all the amazing dining options Scottsdale has to offer when we feel like venturing out in the hot Arizona sun. But every now and then, we’ve got to put our cooking skills to use, right? And no, unfortunately boiling water does not count.

Cooking is the main cause of fire injuries and home fires. What can start as a small grease fire can spread and ultimately turn into a large-scale fire that could overcome your home and lead to serious injuries. Here are several tips that we recommend to prevent kitchen fires in your Scottsdale home.

1. Install a smoke detector near your kitchen. It doesn’t have to be in the actual kitchen as you don’t want smoke from toast burning in your toaster to trigger it. You want it to be close enough to the kitchen so that it can detect an actual kitchen fire.

2. If you’re wearing long sleeves, roll them up! If you have long hair, tie it back.

3. Do not place dish towels, pot holders or paper towel close to your stove.

4. When using the stove, never leave it unattended. Yes, even when you’re boiling water. It’s very easy to become distracted that you can easily forget it’s in use.

5. Always turn the pan handles toward the back of the stove that way you don’t accidentally knock a hot pan off. This is especially important when you have small children around as you don’t want any fire injuries to occur.

6. Watch the heat. If the pan is too hot, the grease will start to boil, then it will start to smoke, and a fire could potentially start from there. The key here is prevention. Watch the heat closely. When the grease starts to boil and/or smoke, turn the heat down and remove from the burner. If a fire does start, NEVER use water to extinguish. Instead, cover with a lid and remove from heat.

It’s important to note all the precautions and safety measures when it comes to cooking to keep you and your family safe. If a fire does start and the flames start to spread, do not try and put it out. Instead, have you and your family evacuated immediately and call 911. In the event of fire damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Scottsdale to provide fire damage restoration services. Contact us for more info at 480-998-7989. We are always here to help. 

Tips To Prevent A Dryer Fire

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

Scottsdale homeowners, when was the last time you cleaned out the lint filter in your clothes dryer at your home? Yesterday? Last week? Last month? What kind of vent hose do you have? Better yet, when was the last time you had your dryer vent and exhaust system inspected? According to the U.S Fire Administration, nearly 3,000 clothes dryer fires are reported each year, resulting in an annual estimate of $35 million in property loss. Here are several tips to inform Scottsdale homeowners on how to prevent a dryer fire to protect your home and most importantly, your family.

Clean Out The Lint

This is something you want to incorporate into your routine each and every time you do your laundry. Over time, lint buildup in the filter can catch fire and can lead to extremely dangerous results and tremendous damage. A little routine lint cleanup can go a long way.

Remove Flammables Near Dryer

It's very important to remember not to store items on top of the dryer such as clothing, towels, blankets, etc., in order to avoid these items potentially catching on fire. You also want to make sure to clean the lint on the dryer and to sweep around the dryer to get the lint that may be collecting underneath. In addition, be sure to store flammables (such as household cleaners) away from your dryer to avoid adding more fuel to a fire in the event of one starting.

Inspect Vent Hose

Be sure to inspect the vent hose behind the dryer to make sure it's still intact and in good condition. You want to make sure that you're not using a plastic or a foil accordion style hose. If you are, make sure to replace with a metal hose as these are more durable and will prevent lint buildup on the inside of the hose.

Annual Servicing

So you cleaned out the lint filter – awesome! Now have you cleaned and inspected the venting and exhaust system? Experts recommend inspecting and cleaning every year. If you're not sure how to do so, don't sweat it. You can always contact a qualified professional to clean and inspect to make sure everything is tip top.

Don't Leave Dryer Unattended

We all lead busy, hectic lives and want to accomplish all the tasks on our daily list of things to do. Whether you need to leave the house to pick up the kids from school or run to the grocery store, it's extremely important to never leave the drying running unattended. 

If you have any questions or would like additional information on Fire Damage, feel free to call SERVPRO of Scottsdale at (480) 998-7989 or visit us at www.SERVPROScottsdale.com to learn more. We are available 24/7 to quickly make it “Like It Never Even Happened.”

Only You Can Prevent a Cigarette Fire

5/11/2018 (Permalink)

The most common cause of house fires in Scottsdale AZ, is from cigarettes, usually from smoking in bed.

The most common cause of house fires in Scottsdale AZ, is from cigarettes, usually from smoking in bed. A cigarette fire can ignite bedding, curtains, or paper trash if not disposed of properly.

Residential fires are for the most part easy to both prepare for and prevent by taking a few simple safety measures and using good common sense. Should the worst happen, however, there are various places to turn to help get your life back together.

Tips To Prevent Fires

• Never smoke in bed.
• Smoke outside whenever possible, or next to a cracked window if the weather doesn’t allow.
• Always make certain the cigarette fire is fully extinguished. Running it under a tap before throwing it in the trash will ensure no paper waste catches lingering embers.
• Don’t toss a cigarette that’s potentially still burning into your garden.
• Regularly cleaning the ashtray will help prevent an ashtray fire and keep it free of residue. Filling it with sand will also ensure the cigarette is completely out.

What To Do If a Fire Occurs

Should a cigarette fire break out, it’s not the end of the world. First, call your insurance company to file a claim. They may also be able to recommend disaster and restoration companies for fire cleanup. Some other actions you can take are as follows:

• Get a copy of the fire report from the fire department.
• Carefully go through the damaged areas to recover undamaged or salvageable items.
• Air rooms out as much as possible to avoid further smoke damage to both your home and your lungs.

There are several ways to avoid disaster, including reviewing your homeowners or rental insurance policies to ensure that they provide coverage for fire cleanup and property loss. Also, keep all important documents in a fire-proof safe or a bank safety deposit vault. This is good advice for anyone, smokers and nonsmokers alike, and will prevent the complicated process of replacing documents such as Social Security cards and birth certificates. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com/.

What to Do Before a Fire Restoration Company Arrives

8/22/2017 (Permalink)

What to Do Before a Fire Restoration Company Arrives

Fire in home and fire in business are especially devastating. The extensive fire damage can leave a person homeless or a workplace out of business. It may be temporary, but the impact can be overwhelming for a homeowner or a business owner. After fire trucks depart, fire cleanup is necessary. Whether it is fire in home or fire in business, the property will suffer from smoke damage as well. Aside from that, there could also be widespread flooding and water damage due to the firefighting efforts.

Before the Fire Damage Restoration

The next step after the distressing fire damage is to call a restoration company that can provide board up services and more. While waiting, the primary focus of the victims of the fire should be their safety. Here are some things to bear in mind:

It may not be safe to stay in the house or building especially after destructive commercial fire damage.

Electrical wiring as well as slip and fall hazards are typically present after the fire damage.

Wet materials, after firefighters have stopped the fire, can be very heavy. It is not wise to attempt to carry them.

After a fire and before the professionals from the restoration company arrive to give board up services, here are actions that a homeowner or a businessperson can carry out after fire damage:

Soot damage can take place in carpets and upholstery. It is advised to limit movement to prevent the particles from being embedded in the mentioned items.

Make sure that the hands are clean. This not only helps with the fire cleanup, but also avoids further soiling walls, woodwork, and upholstery.

There should be old linens or clean towels on upholstery, carpets, and rugs to reduce smoke smell and even soot damage.

If it is fire in home and electricity is not working, the freezer and the refrigerator should be emptied. Doors should remain open until fire damage restoration professionals get there.

Cleaning and protecting chrome using light coating of oil or petroleum jelly is also advised.

Houseplants should be washed on both sides of the leaves to reduce smoke smell.

It is also time to change HVAC filter whether it is fire in home or fire in business.

Air registers can be taped with double layers of cheesecloth. This can also help reduce smoke smell.

If there are things that can be done before the restoration company arrives, there are also activities that should be avoided. Here they are:

Do not attempt to wash painted surfaces, such as walls. Shampooing carpet and upholstery is also not recommended without the go signal from the professionals of the restoration company.

It is also not advised to attempt to clean electrical appliances, particularly those that may have been exposed to fire or heat or even water. It is best to consult an authorized repairman first especially if soot damage is visible.

Commercial fire damage in stores that sell canned or packaged food and beverages can be upsetting as these items should no longer be used. The same thing should be applied if it is fire in home, particularly if the items have been stored near the areas that have been affected by fire and smoke damage.

If the ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fixtures before fire damage restoration since there could be something wrong with the wiring.

Garments should not be sent to an ordinary dry cleaning service. Improper cleaning may heighten smoke smell.

Fire in business or commercial fire damage, including soot damage and smoke damage, can affect the structure of the building and equipment in the area. The same thing can be said when fire took place at home where board up is often essential. It can destroy the house and the person’s belongings. Fire damage restoration companies understand that furniture, keepsakes, clothing, and other possessions are important to the victims of the fire.

It is important to find fire cleanup pros that specialize in restoring houses and structures and providing board up services for home or commercial fire damage. These pros can help renovate contents of the area that underwent fire, water, mold, and smoke damage. With the aid of professional fire cleanup, homeowners or business people can save money as their possessions are restored instead of replaced.
Visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com for more information on fire damage.

How the Monsoon Causes Fire Damage

8/19/2016 (Permalink)

Dealing with fire damage? SERVPRO of Scottsdale has your back!

Monsoon and Fire Damage

The deserts of Arizona, while warm and fairly dry year-round, do indeed carry their own unique seasonal weather patterns. Perhaps the most influential and violent of these patterns is the monsoon, which starts in early July and carries on for most of the rest of the summer. During this period, storms are unpredictable, but often violent with torrents of rain intermittently falling. Due to several climatic factors in the Sonoran Desert, these storms also spawn unprecedented numbers of lightning strikes. For the wood and adobe homes common throughout Arizona, these lightning strikes pose an incredible danger.

Fire damage in North Scottsdale and other cities across the Sonoran Desert is fairly common during this monsoon season, and even if there is no rainfall, heavy lightning and thunderstorms can occur. SERVPRO suggests installing a well-made lightning rod on your home to ward off most lightning strikes, although it is by no means the only solution. Dried out for months of little to no rainfall, homes and the materials in them are brittle and ready for flame, and extreme care should be taken to install reliable fire extinguishers and possibly a sprinkler system across the house. Very recently, a hotel under construction near Scottsdale was hit by lightning and burned to the ground, as its fire safety systems were not yet set up.

It's not only the summer monsoons which can lead to heavy lightning damage, however. In the winter months, starting primarily in December, more rain hits the desert, but also more thunder and lightning. Every year, we see a spike in the number of fire damage cases from residents due to lightning strikes around these times. Take care to keep your home as safe as possible from these disasters, especially if you own a two-story home in a one-story neighborhood (or a building otherwise taller than its surroundings). Additionally, always mind the potential for flood and water damage during a monsoon, as rain typically comes in heavy sheets very quickly, often not easily absorbed by the soil.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Strategically positioned to have fast response times and quality coverage across the local community, SERVPRO of Scottsdale is always ready to respond quickly to your fire damage call. If you require our damage mitigation and restoration services, or would like a quote, call us 24/7 at (480) 998-7989.