The importance of hiring certified professionals for fire damage restoration

12/4/2024 (Permalink)

When dealing with the aftermath of a fire, water damage often becomes an unexpected but significant issue. Water used to extinguish the flames can result in extensive damage to the property, compounding the challenges of the cleanup process. Properly addressing water damage is critical to restoring your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Here’s how to effectively manage water damage during fire damage cleanup, based on expert insights from SERVPRO® of Tampa Southeast.

Understanding the Dual Challenge of Fire and Water Damage

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fire departments respond to an average of 353,100 home structure fires annually in the U.S. Many of these cases involve substantial water usage to extinguish the fire, resulting in widespread water damage. This means that fire damage cleanup often goes hand-in-hand with water extraction and drying.

Steps to Manage Water Damage During Fire Cleanup

Proper management of water damage is essential for a thorough fire damage cleanup process. Below are the key steps to help manage water damage effectively:

1. Water Extraction
   The first step is to remove as much standing water as possible. Industrial-grade pumps and vacuums can help extract large amounts of water quickly. The sooner water is removed, the less likely it is to seep into structural materials and cause further damage.
2. Drying and Dehumidification
   After water extraction, thoroughly drying the affected areas is crucial. High-powered fans, air movers, and dehumidifiers can speed up the drying process. Targeting moisture hidden within walls, flooring, and other porous materials will help prevent warping and other structural issues.
3. Cleaning and Sanitizing
   Water used during firefighting can bring debris, soot, and contaminants into the property. After drying, deep cleaning and sanitization are necessary to eliminate any residue and odors. SERVPRO® uses specialized cleaning products and techniques to restore surfaces to their original condition.
4. Damage Assessment and Restoration
   Evaluate the extent of both fire and water damage to determine which materials can be salvaged and which need replacement. This may involve repairing or replacing drywall, flooring, and insulation.

Why Professional Expertise Matters

Fire and water damage are complex problems that require a professional approach. Restoration experts have the equipment and training needed to assess and address both issues simultaneously. Hiring professionals ensures that no damage is overlooked, which is key to preventing further problems down the line.

By understanding these essential steps for managing water damage during fire cleanup, you can help restore your property effectively and efficiently. Trust SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast to handle both fire and water damage, using industry-leading techniques and expert care to get you back to normal quickly.

The benefits of using eco-friendly products in fire damage cleanup and restoration

8/14/2024 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, we are dedicated to providing top-notch fire damage cleanup and restoration services.

When a fire strikes, the aftermath can be overwhelming. At SERVPRO®, we understand the urgency and complexity involved in fire damage cleanup and restoration. One of our top priorities is to provide the best service while being mindful of our environment. This is why we incorporate eco-friendly products into our fire damage restoration process. Here are some of the key benefits of using eco-friendly products in fire damage cleanup and restoration.

Environmentally Safe

Eco-friendly products are designed to minimize harm to the environment. Traditional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can contribute to pollution and harm wildlife. In contrast, eco-friendly products are typically biodegradable and free from toxic substances, ensuring that our cleanup efforts do not negatively impact the environment. By choosing eco-friendly solutions, we help protect our planet for future generations.

Improved Air Quality

After a fire, the air quality in the affected area can be severely compromised by soot, smoke, and chemical residues. Traditional cleaning agents can sometimes exacerbate these issues by releasing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. Eco-friendly cleaning products, however, are formulated to be low in VOCs and other harmful emissions. This not only helps in restoring the indoor air quality more effectively but also ensures a healthier breathing environment for everyone involved in the restoration process.

Enhanced Safety for Occupants

The safety of our clients is paramount. Eco-friendly cleaning products are generally less irritating and safer for occupants who might be sensitive to chemicals. Using non-toxic products reduces the risk of allergic reactions and other irritations, making the restored space safer for inhabitants, including pets.

Effective Cleaning Power

There’s a common misconception that eco-friendly products are less effective than their traditional counterparts. However, modern eco-friendly cleaning solutions have been developed to provide powerful cleaning capabilities. These products can effectively remove soot, smoke residues, and other fire-related contaminants without leaving behind harmful residues. This ensures that the affected area is thoroughly cleaned and restored to its pre-fire condition.

Sustainable Practices

Incorporating eco-friendly products into our restoration process is part of our commitment to sustainable practices. Sustainability in the restoration industry involves using resources responsibly and minimizing waste. By opting for eco-friendly products, we reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. This aligns with SERVPRO’s values of promoting environmental stewardship and corporate responsibility.

Positive Brand Image

Choosing eco-friendly products not only benefits the environment and our clients but also enhances our reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking company. Clients are increasingly aware of the environmental impact of the services they use and often prefer companies that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. By using eco-friendly products, SERVPRO positions itself as a leader in eco-conscious fire damage restoration, which can attract more environmentally conscious customers.

At SERVPRO, we are dedicated to providing top-notch fire damage cleanup and restoration services while maintaining our commitment to environmental responsibility. By using eco-friendly products, we ensure that our restoration efforts are not only effective but also sustainable. If you need fire damage restoration, contact SERVPRO today to learn more about our eco-friendly approach and how we can help you restore your property efficiently and responsibly.

Choosing the Right Fire Restoration Company: What to Look For

4/16/2024 (Permalink)

If you need fire damage restoration services, don't hesitate to reach out to us for prompt and reliable assistance.

When disaster strikes and your property suffers fire damage, finding the right restoration company is crucial for an efficient and successful recovery. With numerous options available, selecting a reputable fire restoration company can seem daunting. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process of choosing the right restoration partner and highlight key factors to consider. At SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast, we understand the importance of restoring your property to its pre-fire condition efficiently and effectively, and we're here to help you make an informed decision.

Experience and Expertise

Look for a fire restoration company with extensive experience and expertise in handling fire damage restoration projects. Choose a company that has a proven track record of successfully restoring properties similar to yours and employs certified technicians with specialized training in fire restoration techniques.

24/7 Availability and Rapid Response

Emergencies can happen at any time, so it's essential to choose a restoration company that offers 24/7 availability and rapid response to fire damage incidents. A quick response is critical for minimizing further damage and initiating the restoration process as quickly as possible.

Proper Licensing and Insurance

Ensure that the restoration company you choose is properly licensed, bonded, and insured to perform fire damage restoration services in your area. This provides you with peace of mind knowing that you're working with a legitimate and trustworthy company that adheres to industry standards and regulations.

Comprehensive Services

Choose a restoration company that offers comprehensive services to address all aspects of fire damage restoration, including cleanup, debris removal, odor removal, structural repairs, and content restoration. A company that can handle the entire restoration process from start to finish ensures a seamless and efficient restoration experience.

References and Reviews

Take the time to research and read customer reviews and testimonials to gauge the reputation and reliability of the restoration company. Additionally, ask the company for references from past clients and contact them to inquire about their experiences and satisfaction with the services provided.

Clear Communication and Transparency

Opt for a restoration company that prioritizes clear communication and transparency throughout the restoration process. They should provide you with detailed estimates, timelines, and updates on the progress of the restoration project, ensuring that you're informed and involved every step of the way.

Commitment to Customer Satisfaction

Finally, choose a restoration company that is committed to customer satisfaction and stands behind their work. They should be readily available to address any concerns or questions you may have before, during, and after the restoration process.

In conclusion, selecting the right fire restoration company is essential for a successful recovery after fire damage. By considering factors such as experience, availability, licensing, services, reputation, communication, and customer satisfaction, you can make an informed decision and choose a reputable restoration partner like SERVPRO® to restore your property with care and expertise. If you need fire damage restoration services, don't hesitate to reach out to us for prompt and reliable assistance.

BBQ Fire Safety

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Follow These Tips to Avoid a Barbecue Fire

The arrival of nice weather calls for grilling out with friends and family. Unfortunately, a grill fire is a real safety hazard, and in the right circumstances, a fun get-together can turn into a disaster in a hurry. You can avoid a barbecue fire by following these tips:

1. Keep the Grill in a Safe Location 

Keep the grill outside on a level surface at least 10 feet from buildings and other flammable objects. Never grill under an overhang or in an enclosed area. Be sure to monitor it closely until it cools.

1. Keep Children and Pets at a Distance

Children and pets should stay at least three feet away from the grill. Ensure that pets on tie-downs cannot reach the grill; they can wrap their line around the grill and pull it over. It will keep them at a safe distance if a grill fire occurs. 

1. Be Mindful of Loose Clothing

Make sure that you wear appropriate attire when you grill. You can tie back everything with an apron. Use long tongs and spatulas for added safety and wear heat-resistant grill gloves.

1. Use a Chimney Starter

A chimney starter is a much safer option than lighter fluid. It will also light the coals more evenly. 

1. Practice the Two-Zone Method

This simple, versatile method creates a much safer grilling experience. Put the hot charcoal on one side of the grill and leave the other side empty. If a flare-up occurs, move the food to the other side until the flame subsides, then move it back to continue cooking. The two-zone method can improve your food quality because it creates a searing side and another side for flame-free slow cooking.

Keep a fire extinguisher near. Do NOT use water; it can make a grease fire flare up. Instead, close the grill lid until the outbreak subsides. If your house sustains fire damage or smoke damage from a grill fire, SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast can return it to its original state.

SERVPRO Removes Pet Odors

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

Don’t Live a Life Full of Unpleasant Smells.

Odors from smoke, pets, decomposition, or mold can cause lingering odors in your home or business. A simple surface clean doesn’t necessarily get rid of these smells. With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO provides specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by smoke, mold, or other sources. Our professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the odor's sources.

Once the source is found, we use SERVPRO’s proprietary line of cleaning products to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more. Our proprietary line of cleaning products, SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast, uses various techniques and equipment to treat odors.

These techniques are capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.

Some of Our Tools to Neutralize Odors

Ozone Generator: The Ozone Generator is one of the quickest ways to eliminate odors from a home or office. We use the Ozone Generator to oxidize odor and eliminate odors from mold, mildew, pets, nicotine, smoke, and more without chemicals. Though the room being treated cannot be occupied while in use, the generator works quickly to clean, sanitize and remove offensive odors. 

Hydroxyl Generator: The Hydroxyl Generator has several benefits that the Ozone Generator does not. The main benefit is that the room being treated can be occupied during the deodorization process, though it does work slower. The Hydroxyl Generator can be used to treat fire and smoke and biohazard jobs, water damage, crime scene situations, and animal odors. 

Air Filtration Device: This piece of equipment, also known as an air scrubber, is used to remove airborne contaminants during water, fire, smoke, mold, and sewage restoration work. These work by pulling air through HEPA filtration to remove airborne particles from the air. This helps clean the air and remove odors.

Whether you are a building manager who needs an apartment cleaned for the next tenant or a homeowner who wants to get your home ready for sale, getting rid of offensive odors is a high priority.

Fire, water, or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast is here to help make it, “Like it never even happened.” 

Fire Damage Restoration Techniques in Tampa, FL

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

For professional assistance after a fire, call SERVPRO of South Orlando at (813) 710-6316, 24/7. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster®.

Fire Damage Restoration: Dry Cleaning Methods

Once something burns at your property in Tampa, you have a possibility of structural issues. Fire damage cleanup can come in a variety of forms. Heat can burn flammable materials inside a structure, forcing removal and replacement of those materials. Smoke coming from the blaze can also cause soils, soot residues, and intense aromas to exist.

Luckily, our experienced and trained SERVPRO team knows that mitigating fire damage can include a variety of replacing, restoring, and cleaning techniques. Various kinds of fire residues can adhere to each surface in your home differently, and we can help with it all.

Cleaning Techniques

When our SERVPRO technicians work with hard surfaces, we can use water based-detergents and other wet cleaning methods. However, for porous surfaces, wet techniques could cause the soot to soak deeper into the material. Dry cleaning methods that use agitation can prove useful in these cases.

Light Agitation

SERVPRO conducts the dry cleaning agitation technique with softer tools such as dusters or brushes. Special vacuums are also useful when removing some soot residues and using compressed air to blow off the soot.

Medium Agitation

Residues that adhere to some of your contents and building surface materials could work better in medium agitation cleaning techniques. Dry sponges are an example of a medium agitation method, and they can be useful when removing soot residues from drywall. Dusting cloths or crumbling cleaners that work like a pencil eraser are also useful.

When mitigating smoke-related problems inside your home, SERVPRO has the necessary tools, techniques and knowledge. For professional assistance after a fire, call SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast at (813) 710-6316, 24/7. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster®.

Fire Restoration Clean-up

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast today at (813) 694-9092.

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects the structure of your house but your belongings. SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast understands your family's furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings make your house more than a structure; they make it home. Check some of SERVPRO's fire restoration services below:

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Our expertise and "restore" versus "replace" mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can't be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition. Several methods of cleaning your contents include:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean before wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can't withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast can conduct an organized, efficient movement of the affected area.

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

Electronic Cleanup

Fire-damaged electronics can present a severe hazard. Don't attempt to turn on or operate any damaged electrical device. Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces. If not removed, the residues corrode, causing electronic failure in the device.

• Television sets
• DVD players
• Computers
• And more

The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. Electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician. Call SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast today at (813) 694-9092.

Prevent Fires in Your Dryers

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

It's no surprise that having a fire damages anything in its path. Your household dryer is an excellent example of this since many homeowners deal with dryer related fires all the time, and the usual culprit would be a clogged dryer vent. In this particular case, the fire is preventable if you maintain your dryer throughout the year and ensure that its vent is clean and clear of buildup.

Over 15,000 calls are to the local fire departments every single year for home-related fires and smoke issues. The unfortunate part is that most fires are due to clogged dryer vents within the home. Some of these fires are minimal, but others have been damaging when not caught in time.

Some homeowners are new to appliances, and home maintenance doesn't know that their dryer needs maintenance. Dryers work by creating hot air in the drum itself, and this is the hot air going to dry up your clothing. You might know the small lint trap on your dryer when you open its door, but excess lint passes through this filter and goes through the dryer vent. The dryer vent is located on the outside of your home so that the hot air goes outside. A lot of heat attracts lint built up in that area from dryers being so hot and causes a fire. Fires related to clogged dryer vents can generate tons of damage to a person's home.

The best way to prevent fires, in this case, is to clean the lint hose. Special tools and services exist that can help to get this particular vent cleaned for you.

Warning Signs Your Dryer is Clogged and May Result in a Fire

1. If it takes longer than 45 minutes to dry your clothing, it could be a sign that the dryer vent is clogged.

2. Your clothes are roasting hot to the touch after they have gone through a dry cycle.

3. The flapper on the dryer's vent may not open when the appliance is on.

Preventing a Fire with Your Dryer

1. You should clean the vent of your dryer at least twice each year.

2. Make sure to clean the lint trap inside the dryer before each cycle.

3. For those individuals who're noticing any of the warning mentioned above signs, make sure to contact a professional company to repaired and clean the appliance.

For those homeowners who aren't lucky to catch the warning signs in time, fire damage can be a daunting thing to clean up on your own. Professionals of SERVPRO come in handy, and they can work on your home's fire restoration when it is most convenient for you. Make sure to contact SERVPRO at the first sign of fire damage so that issues are resolved immediately.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast is locally owned and operated—so we are part of the Tampa community. We are part of a national network of over 1,650 SERVPRO Franchises and special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country. We're able to respond to large-scale disasters quickly. Give us a call today.

Inspecting Your Home for Damages after a Fire

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

A house fire is life-altering and leaves homeowners feeling heartbroken and directionless. Knowing where to begin and who can help is important. SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast is here to assist our Tampa, FL community mitigate damage after a house fire. We are available 24/7 and specialize in smoke and soot removal, water removal, cleaning, repairs, and restoration. Do not face fire damage on your own, contact us at (813) 722-1276. 

Reacting to the fire damage in your Tampa home can seem impossible. When the extinguishing process is completed, you can begin restoration. However, DIY fire cleanup methods are not the most effective way to rehabilitate your home. Conventional cleaning efforts and general deodorization pale in comparison to professional restoration services. Fortunately, this isn't a battle that you have to fight alone. SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast handles fire restoration, from soot clean-up to deodorization. 

Our estimator and project manager work to identify the full scope of the damage at your home. We survey every area, whether connected to the fire in your home or not. This thorough inspection records the damage for insurance, and our SERVPRO professionals have the commercial-grade equipment and strategies to contend with the damage. We'll deliver the assessment of your damages to the insurance company that covers your home, which will help process your claim efficiently. Whether the damage in your home was widespread or not, this process remains the same. Our professionals take great care in assessing the scope of the damage that your home faces so that no stone is left unturned in the restoration process.

You can trust our SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast fire restoration specialists to work quickly to make your home “Like it never even happened,” giving you peace of mind and a sense of normalcy. We’re available for you 24/7, 7 days a week at (813) 722-1276. 

3 Areas of Concern for Business Fire Hazards

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

The unfortunate reality is that no business is immune to the risk of fire. Even moderate damage can result in your facility closing for repairs for weeks on end, which can be devastating. Some facilities are more prone to damage from a fire, such as a restaurant that uses open flames throughout the day. However, many fire hazards are present in workplaces regardless of activities that take place in the building. When you know what these hazards are, you can take steps to address and mitigate unsafe conditions and prevent possible fire damage and smoke damage.

3 Areas of Concern 

1. Electrical Concerns

Faulty electrical wiring can result in sparks that lead to damaging fires. Electrical wiring impairment may include frayed cords, such as those connecting desktop computers to the wall power outlets. For example, desktop computers that are connected to power outlets can damage wiring inside the walls, potentially causing a spark. Additionally, electrical fires may start when power sockets overload or when equipment gets too hot. Periodically review your company's wiring to identify areas of concern that need to be addressed.

2. Poor Equipment Maintenance

Keep a maintenance schedule to provide regular service to business-related equipment. For example, failing to service your furnace may result in dust accumulation and other flammable debris. Furthermore, a gas leak in the furnace could result in a fire or an explosion. Fire hazards related to poor maintenance may include dusty, dirty, or greasy components, such as air ducts, kitchen exhaust vents, and many other features used throughout your facility. Scheduling necessary maintenance can decrease fire risk in these areas.

3. Flammable or Combustible Materials

Flammable and combustible materials are most commonly associated with industrial and warehouse environments, but restaurants, hotels, dry cleaners, and many other types of businesses may store combustible materials onsite. These materials should remain sealed according to the manufacturer's recommendations. 

If your business has already experienced fire damage, repairs are needed as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast is your trusted source for quality repair services. Although we hope your business does not experience a fire emergency, we do hope you keep us in mind for fire emergencies. We can quickly restore your building to its previous condition so that you can resume operations as soon as possible. We are available 24/7 and can respond immediately. Call us at (813) 543-8430.

Fire Extinguisher Ready

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers are staples in disaster-ready homes and provide billions of people with a quick, effective way to respond to sudden blazes. With proper training and education, fire extinguishers can save your life and your property. For hands-on training, contact your local fire station. Generally, all fire extinguishers are alike, as they follow the same usage procedure known as PASS:

• Pull the pin to break the tamper seal.
• Aim the nozzle at the bottom of the fire.
• Squeeze the handle and release extinguisher chemicals.
• Sweep the nozzle back and forth at the base of the fire until it’s extinguished.

Choosing Your Extinguisher

Not every fire extinguisher is suitable for every job. Research different types of extinguishers before deciding where to place them around your home. The National Fire Protection Association recommends keeping multipurpose fire extinguishers in your home close to an exit. Class B extinguishers should be located in the kitchen and garage, as they are effective for putting out small grease and gasoline fires. 

Emergency Services

If a fire sparks, call 911 first, then use a fire extinguisher if the situation allows. This ensures you will be able to get the assistance you need if your attempts are unsuccessful. Furthermore, know when to leave the house. The first priority is a safe escape. If the blaze becomes large or your extinguisher runs out of fumes, it’s time to get out of the house. Let firefighters and emergency responders take care of the fire. Work with SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast afterward to get your home back to normal again. We specialize in fire restoration services such as smoke and soot cleanup, water removal, repairs, and more.

Being knowledgeable of fire extinguisher handling tips can save your home and your family. Discuss the above tips with every member of your family and create a fire escape plan. Call SERVPRO of Tampa Southeast at (813) 543-8430 for additional information regarding fire damage cleanup.