Recent Fire Damage Posts

Be Aware of How Fires Start

10/9/2023 (Permalink)

Someone using a fire extinguisher to put out a fire Recognizing fire hazards, can help ensure you stop blazes before they start.

You know building fires can be destructive, but are you familiar with the most common fire starters in homes and businesses? By recognizing these fire hazards, you can take steps to ensure you stop blazes before they start.

Unattended Kitchen Appliances

The kitchen is the most fire-prone room in your home. If you own a restaurant or other business with cooking equipment, it’s vital to never leave appliances unattended. Likely hazards include grease becoming overheated, bread toasting too long, or a cookbook getting too close to an open flame, and they are all enough to start a fire.

Unsafe Cooking Methods

Keep the cooking area clean and roll up your sleeves so they can’t catch fire over a hot stove. Only place microwave-safe dishes in the microwave. Remain alert when cooking and keep kids and pets out of the kitchen. Never cook while under the influence of alcohol.

Worn Out Electrical Cords

Frayed or damaged cords are common fire starters in both homes and businesses. Exposed wires heat up and could ignite surrounding textiles, including the carpet or an area rug. Keep an eye on the condition of your electrical cords and keep your pets from chewing them so they remain in good condition.

Overloaded Power Strips

This situation is particularly common during the holidays when homeowners overpower a single outlet with too many Christmas lights. Use only heavy duty extension cords and avoid overloading the circuit, which can cause a spark and create a serious fire hazard.

Malfunctioning Electrical Appliances

Most homes and businesses rely on electrical appliances for daily tasks. Any of these are prone to malfunction at one point or another, especially toward the end of the equipment’s lifespan. Malfunctions sometimes result in a spark, which is obviously a substantial fire hazard. Faulty coffee makers, toasters, TVs, laptops and other electronics have been to blame for serious fires.

Flammable Products Placed Near Sources of Ignition

There are countless examples of flammable products igniting when they come in contact with sources of heat. A lamp shade touching a hot light bulb, curtains situated too close to an electric space heater, and an aerosol spray can used near the stove are just a few examples.

Unattended Candles

Candles lead to hundreds of house fires every year. Make sure you never place a burning candle near curtains, lampshades or anything else flammable. Place candles in adequate holders and place them on a steady surface away from the edge. Even with these precautions, never leave burning candles unattended. All it takes is a moment for a child or pet to nudge the candle or knock it over.

Fireplace or Wood Stove

When used improperly, fireplaces and wood stoves are common fire starters. Make sure the chimney is unobstructed before burning anything. Wait to dispose of ashes until they are completely cool to the touch. Even the tiniest smoldering embers could start a fire in the trash can.

Unsafe Smoking Practices

Cigarettes are a substantial fire hazard. Habits such as smoking in bed, leaving lit cigarettes unattended, or emptying the contents of an ashtray before they cool are the cause of hundreds of fires every year. Your best bet is to smoke outside and dispose of cigarettes in noncombustible containers, not in flower pots or as litter on the street.

Matches and Lighters

If these get into the hands of children, they can become lethal, fire-starting weapons. If you smoke, keep only one lighter or book of matches accessible at a time, and keep them with you. Teach your children to take matches and lighters seriously and to tell an adult if they find any lying around.

If your home or business has experienced the devastating results of fire starters, professional restoration services from SERVPRO of Kendall County can help you get back on your feet. 

How To Prevent Electrical Fires

10/6/2023 (Permalink)

Fire coming out of an outlet due to an electrical fire The electrical demands placed on homes puts them at greater risk for electrical-related fires.

Across every age group and in every area of the country, people will tell you “I’m so busy,” “I feel so much pressure,” or “I’m so overloaded.” From school-aged children facing classroom and extra-curricular demands and middle-aged adults working long hours to provide the best lifestyle for their families, to the older generation planning retirement or dealing with health-related issues, everyone is facing some type of demand.

But have you ever stopped to think about how overloaded your home may be? Homes today face an overwhelming amount of demands… of the electrical kind! From the central heat and air and appliance to the light fixtures, computers, televisions, and electronic devices most people have nowadays, homes are definitely carrying a tremendous load. The electrical demands placed on homes puts them at greater risk for electrical-related fires. 

  • Have your home inspected for loose wires, shorts, and faulty wiring that increase the risk for potential electrical fires. Electrical wiring doesn’t last forever. This is especially true if you live in an older home. While older homes offer the grandeur or nostalgic feel some people are looking for, it’s important to check the walls for more than just the stories they may tell. Faulty wiring symptoms can include buzzing outlets, flickering lamps, or plugs that spark when you plug something in. Hire a certified electrician to give your home an inspection to ensure the wiring is safe or may be in need of rewiring.
  • Install a smoke detector on every level of your home and inside each bedroom. Also, make sure the smoke detectors are working properly by testing them every month. Make sure that everyone in your home knows the sound of the smoke detector and knows what to do when it goes off. Have a fire escape plan in place and practice it with the whole household.
  • Use safe cord practices in the home. Repair or replace loose, frayed, or cracked cords. Never place cords in high traffic areas, under carpets or rugs, or nail or staple cords to surfaces. Consider having additional outlets installed by an electrician; avoid using extension cords long-term.
  • Place the correct wattage light bulbs in all fixtures. If the wattage is higher than the requirement, replace them immediately. Secure light bulbs in the socket to ensure they don’t overheat.

No matter how busy you may be, taking a few minutes to look at your home’s risk for electrical fire is time well invested. Prevention is the key for protecting your family and home from the dangers and disaster of electrical fire and the need for SERVPRO of Kendall County in the future .

Household Flammable Liquids: What Are They?

9/13/2022 (Permalink)

household cleaning products Don’t leave the storage of these solutions up to chance.

The Federal Hazardous Substances Act (FHSA) regulates the labeling of hazardous household products. Under the FHSA, substances that are combustible, flammable, corrosive, irritating, toxic, a strong sensitizer, or cause a substantial risk of personal injury or illness must be labeled as such. 

In a home, this translates to products that include:   

  • Aerosol cans  

  • Gasoline  

  • Oils and lubricants 

  • Paint thinner 

  • Rubbing alcohol  

  • Turpentine  

  • Linseed oil  

  • Hand sanitizer 

  • Nail polish remover  

  • Stain removers 

  • Hairspray and beauty products 

  • Non-dairy creamer 

  • Cooking oil 

  • Kerosene 

  • And more.  

This list is not all-encompassing, but it’s a good starting point. Also consider products stored in attached and detached garages, sheds, or ancillary buildings when assessing the risk at your property.  

How to Store Flammable and Combustible Liquids at Home   

It’s hard to imagine a life without any of the potentially flammable items listed above. Storing combustible or flammable liquids safely is all about mitigating risk. Implement the storage strategies listed below in your home can help reduce your risk of fire.  

Storage Dos:  

  • Store products like oils and lubricants in a well-ventilated space in your garage or, preferably, a detached shed.  

  • Store household items like cleaners and beauty products in a cool, dark space like a cabinet or closet.  

  • Choose a storage location that receives adequate ventilation.  

  • Keep an inventory of potentially hazardous liquids, so you always know what’s in your home, its quantity, and where it is.  

  • Ensure your home is equipped with working smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.  

  • Regularly change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. A good ‘rule of thumb’ is to change the batteries when you change your clocks in the spring and fall. 

  • Practice safe disposal methods for oil- or cleaner-soaked rags, empty containers promptly, and more. Many of these products are considered household hazardous waste, meaning they cannot be put down the drain or flushed down the toilet, and must be disposed of at a designated collection site.  

  • Store all chemicals and hazardous liquids out of reach of children and pets.  

  • Consider purchasing a flammable liquid storage cabinet. 
       

Storage Don’ts: 

  • Don’t store flammable liquids next to anything that ignites (lighters, matches, power tools, small engines, even kitchen appliances). 

  • Don’t store flammable liquids with ancillary fuel (think paper, fabric, or other highly flammable materials).  

  • Don’t hide combustible liquids away. Out of sight equals out of mind. Track these materials to ensure they are safely stored.  

  • Don’t stockpile hazardous or flammable materials. A good sale is no reason to keep extra, potentially dangerous materials on hand.  

  • Don’t leave flammable liquids near heat sources like heat vents or dryers. And never leave flammable liquids in the sun.  

  • Don’t store gasoline in anything other than an approved canister.  
      

How to Handle a Flammable Liquid Spill 

Uh-oh, have you accidentally spilled turpentine or a flammable cleaning liquid at home? Quick and safe clean-up is key to maintaining a safe environment.  

The exact cleanup steps will depend on the type of liquid spilled. For small spills, it’s recommended that homeowners:  

  • Open doors and windows to increase ventilation.  

  • Wear protective gear, like plastic gloves and goggles.  

  • Use absorbent and non-reactive material, like kitty litter or sawdust, to soak up liquid.  

  • Dispose of the soaked material safely (this will look different depending on what spilled). 

  • Clean any residue from the spill using soap and hot water.  

Hidden Sources of Fire in Your Home

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

kitchen fire There are a number of items commonly found in your home that can be dangerous fire hazards.

Were you aware of these fire hazards in your home?

  • Microwaves
    Microwaves offer plenty of fire risks. Unnoticed metals on dinnerware, takeout containers – even in recycled paper products – can result in arcing, sparks, and fire. Popcorn, a commonly microwaved item, can easily catch fire when cooked for too long. If you have a fire in your microwave, turn it off immediately to prevent the fan feeding oxygen to flames and wait until it suffocates. Only open the door when you’re certain the fire is extinguished. Clean your microwave regularly and use only articles designed for microwave use to reduce fire potential. If your microwave malfunctions, replace it immediately. Microwaves are high voltage and pose an extreme fire risk when not properly operating. If your microwave malfunctions, unplug it. Never attempt to repair a microwave yourself, simply replace it or consult a professional.
  • Batteries
    All batteries pose a fire risk, even those with a weak charge. However 9 volt batteries are the biggest culprit of fire due to the close proximity of their terminals, which can easily short. A battery storage case is highly recommended. If you do not have one, leave batteries in their original packaging, not lying around loose. Store batteries standing up, placing electrical tape over the ends of each battery (all types – not just 9 volts) to prevent shorts. Do not store batteries in metal containers, or near other metal items such as keys, steel wool, and aluminum foil. Be sure to store 9 volt batteries separately.   
  • Light bulbs
    Overlamping, or using a light bulb with wattage too high for a given outlet, can easily result in a home fire. Determining proper wattage is easy. Simply locate the proper wattage on each fixtures outlet. If the fixture is unmarked, stay under 60 watts to be safe. Caution must also be taken with CFLs (compact fluorescents). These spiral shaped bulbs could result in fire when improperly used. Avoid using CFLs in any lighting unit where the base of the bulb is enclosed by the fixture, such as with track and recessed lighting. If your CFLs are burning out early and you notice they are brown at the base when you remove them, the bulbs are overheating and could result in fire. Choose a cooler option, such as LED.
  • Dryer lint
    Dryer lint that has not been properly cleaned from your dryer vent or ductwork can cause heat buildup and fast-moving fires. Clean your dryer’s lint screen after every load. Use aluminum tubing to vent your dryer to meet current fire code standards. Your dryer’s lint trap only catches 25 percent of lint, so be certain to clean the vent and exhaust duct periodically, as well as the area behind the dryer, where lint can build up.
  • Laptops
    Laptops can get pretty hot during normal operation. Never leave your laptop on a bed or couch, or any place where its cooling vents are blocked. This could result in fire. Store laptops securely on a desk or laptop stand.
  • Stacks of newspaper, magazines
    Items you plan to read eventually can ignite quickly if left too close to a heat source. If you must keep old newspapers or magazines, be certain to store them in a cool, dry place in short stacks.
  • Heating blankets and pads
    Defective, old or improperly used blankets and heating pads can result in fire. To prevent fires, read and adhere to all manufacturer’s operating instructions. Do not place the cord between the mattress and box spring, or in any location where it may be pinched or folded. Avoid bunching, keeping the blanket or pad flat when in use. Use these items on the lowest setting no longer than the recommended time. Wash them carefully and take heed not to dry, iron, or dry clean them, which can melt heating wire insulation and increase fire risks.
  • Barbeque charcoal
    Throwing that unused bag of charcoal in the closest storage closet is a bad idea. Damp coal can ignite and start a serious fire. Store charcoal in a cool, dry place in a metal pail or garbage can secured tightly with a lid.
  • Closet clutter
    A sweater stack a mile high could easily come into contact with a light bulb and ignite. Don’t store combustible materials near light fixtures. Cut the clutter and keep belongings far away from bulbs.
  • Dust
    Dust bunnies around electronics, sockets, and heaters can ignite and start fire. Regularly vacuum dust near outlets, wires, and appliances, including crevices and areas behind furniture, to prevent fires.
  • Old appliances
    Old appliances with worn insulation and dilapidated wiring are a disaster waiting to happen. Check them regularly to ensure good working condition and the safety of cords and connections.

Pet Fire Safety Tips

8/5/2022 (Permalink)

puppy laying by a fireplace The first thing to consider is preventing potential fires by practicing pet fire safety.

The best way to protect your pets from the effects of a fire is to include them in your family plan. This includes having their own disaster supplies kit as well as arranging in advance for a safe place for them to stay if you need to leave your home.

When you practice your escape plan, practice taking your pets with you. Train them to come to you when you call.- In the event of a disaster, if you must evacuate, the most important thing you can do to protect your pets is to evacuate them, too. But remember: never delay escape or endanger yourself or your family to rescue a family pet.

Prevent Your Pets from Starting Fires
  • Extinguish Open Flames - Pets are generally curious and will investigate cooking appliances, candles, or even a fire in your fireplace. Ensure your pet is not left unattended around an open flame and make sure to thoroughly extinguish any open flame before leaving your home.
  • Remove Stove Knobs - Be sure to remove stove knobs or protect them with covers before leaving the house - a stove or cooktop is the number one piece of equipment involved in your pet starting a fire.
  • Invest in Flameless Candles - These candles contain a light bulb rather than an open flame and take the danger out of your pet knocking over a candle. Cats are notorious for starting fires when their tails turn over lit candles.
  • Secure Young Pets - keep them confined away from potential fire-starting hazards when you are away from home such as in crates or behind baby gates in secure areas.
Help Firefighters Help Your Pets
  • Keep pets near entrances when away from home. Keep collars on pets and leashes at the ready in case firefighters need to rescue your pet. When leaving pets home alone, keep them in areas or rooms near entrances where firefighters can easily find them.
  • Affix a pet alert window cling and write down the number of pets inside your house and attach the static cling to a front window. This critical information saves rescuers time when locating their pets. Make sure to keep the number of pets listed on them updated.

Smoking Fire Safety

8/3/2022 (Permalink)

lighting a cigerette Fires caused by cigarettes and other smoking materials are preventable.

Here are essential smoking fire prevention tips for homeowners:

  1. 1. Using fire-safe cigarettes (FSCs) – Fire-safe cigarettes are designed to extinguish more quickly than standard cigarettes if ignored. Cigarettes that are fire standards-compliant have the “FSC” letters above the barcode.
  2. 2. Smoking outside only – As most smoking-related fires occur in living rooms and bedrooms, it is best to smoke outside. Cigarette butts or ashes can ignite many things in a home, such as curtains, beds, books, etc.
  3. 3. Not smoking in bed – Those who smoke in bed might fall asleep while their cigarette is still lit. If the cigarette falls, the mattress and bedding can easily catch fire.
  4. 4. Smoking away from medical oxygen – This is never a good idea as it can cause materials to catch on fire quickly and makes fires burn faster than normal.
  5. 5. Keeping children away from smoking materials – To prevent children from playing with cigarettes, matches or lighters, these smoking materials should be kept out of their reach, preferably in a locked cabinet.
  6. 6. Extinguishing cigarettes completely – Cigarettes should be doused with water or sand to make sure they are put out all the way. Before discarding cigarette butts and ashes in the trash, they should be doused with water again.
  7. 7. Using deep, sturdy ashtrays that can’t easily tip over – Ashtrays should be placed on level surfaces, outside the home. Also, water or sand should be put in them to ensure cigarette butts are completely extinguished.
  8. 8. Not smoking when tired – Those who feel sleepy or tired, or have taken medicine that makes one drowsy, may not be able to exercise proper caution when smoking.
  9. 9. Not throwing cigarettes in vegetation – Dry vegetation, such as mulch, peat moss and leaves, can catch fire when they come in contact with fresh cigarette butts.
  10. 10. Using electronic cigarettes with caution – Electronic cigarette usage also presents safety risks. Most e-cigarettes use lithium batteries, and using them improperly may result in accidents. E-cigarettes that are charging should always be supervised.

CHIMNEY FIRE PREVENTION: DON’T BURN DOWN

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

chimney fire causing fire damage to roof A chimney fire can, if hot enough, catch your rafters and frame on fire.

PREVENT CHIMNEY FIRES

  • Clean your chimney regularly: at least once a year. Now that heating season gearing up, it’s a prime time to do it. Spring is a great time too, as it’s a good idea to get the creosote out as soon as possible. 
  • If you have a stovepipe chimney and had a chimney fire in the past, replace it. Chimney fires ruin stovepipes. 
  • If you’re putting in a new stovepipe or replacing an old one, do not install the stovepipe upside-down. In other words, always install the pipe with the crimped part pointed down. Some people turn the pipe with the crimped side up, thinking that smoke is less likely to come into the room that way. Problem: with the crimped side up, creosote will run down the pipe, out through the joint, create a fire hazard, and ruin your floor. If, on the other hand, your pipes match each other and the stove, you won’t have a problem with it smoking if it’s installed the correct way.
  • Burn a really hot fire in the morning to burn the creosote out. Don’t do this until you’ve cleaned the chimney. Otherwise you’ll catch it on fire! Note that this will only reach the stuff near the stove; if you’ve got creosote further up, clean it.
  • Use dry wood; preferably firewood that has been seasoned from 8-12 months or more. Less water means less smoke and less creosote. Don’t use treated wood (construction scraps, anything painted, etc.); it releases poisons into the air.
  • Inspect your chimney or stovepipe once a year; this will catch anything you might miss and give you a professional cleaning if needed.

BE PREPARED

While “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” and these next suggestions won’t prevent a fire, they will help enormously in case something goes wrong:

  • Keep a good fire extinguisher handy. 
  • Make sure your smoke alarms are up to date. 
  • Newspaper method: if a fire seems imminent, soak newspaper in water and chuck it in. That will stifle it.
  • Make sure you have an escape route planned out and practiced. 
  • If a fire happens and you have time, cut all air to it (shut the stove doors and dampers), call 911 and get outside!

Electrical Safety Tips For Your Home

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

electrical cord on fire Whether it is due to old, faulty wiring or overloading a power strip, electrical fires can happen for many reasons.

Electrical fires can be prevented, and that’s why we put together these essential home electrical fire safety tips.

1.      Don’t Overload Electrical Outlets

Electrical overloads can be very dangerous. If you have too many high-wattage appliances plugged into an outlet, a short circuit could potentially occur and result in a fire. Resist the temptation to use an extension cord as a solution.

2.      Don’t Run Extension Cords Through Walls

And don’t run them under carpet, around corners, around beams or under doors. Especially with carpet, a faulty extension cords could potentially create sparks that cause a fire to ignite. Always throw away damaged cords and don’t try to repair them. Also, be sure only to use surge-protected power strips and to inspect for damages often.

3.      Install and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)

GFCIs are the perfect solution for outlets in areas which are continuously exposed to water, including bathrooms, laundry rooms, and outdoor outlets. They contain special built-in mechanisms to prevent electrical ground or short circuiting.

4.      Examine Deficient Switches and Outlets

It’s important you inspect your light switches and electrical outlets for any deficient signs that could be potential warnings. Faulty switches are ones that can get particularly warm or shock you upon touch, which can be caused by exposed or deteriorated wiring. These can cause fires behind your switches, outlets and walls. If you spot any warning signs, remember to call your local electrician.

How to Put Out a Grill Fire

7/3/2022 (Permalink)

outdoor grille catching fire To help protect your home and family, be prepared and practice grill safety

When the weather warms up, it is the perfect time to start the grill and enjoy cooking delicious food with friends and family. However, before grilling season begins, make sure you are prepared to help keep your home and family safe. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), yearly, over 10,000 home fires are started by grills. Accidents happen, so it is important to know common ways gas grill fires start and how to make sure you are prepared to put out a fire in case one does start while you are grilling food.

Common Causes of Grill Fires

While barbecues are prone to flame up when grease starts to collect, it is not just your grease tray that you should be keeping an eye on. Outdoor grills are often placed in hazardous locations too close to the house, deck railings, outdoor sheds, and under patio awnings. To help ensure a safe grilling and BBQ experience, place your grill at least 10 feet from the home or other structures. Also, make sure there are no obstructions like a patio awning or tree branches above the grill that could catch on fire while you are grilling.

How to Extinguish the Grill Flames Safely

Flare-ups from cooking food on the grill are natural. However, when the flames on your BBQ become too large or spread to adjacent areas, it is essential to have a fire extinguisher within reach and know how to use it.

1. If your gas grill catches fire, the first thing you should do is attempt to turn the burners off. If you can reach the knobs safely (on a gas grill), this will help stop additional fuel from feeding the fire and creating a larger problem.

2. You can also close the grill lid, as a lack of oxygen will help ease the fire and slow it down.

3. Use a fire extinguisher to extinguish the flames using this technique- pull, aim, squeeze, and sweep. Once the fire has been put out, make sure to switch off any burners on the grill that were still on.

Be Prepared

To help protect your home and family, be prepared and practice grill safety. Check your gas lines to make sure there are no gas leaks before lighting the grill and keep grease trays and grill plates clean by using a grill brush after each use. For protection in case of a grill fire, have a fire extinguisher within reach in the event a small gas fire breaks out.

The Five Classes of Fires and the Fire Extinguishers that Stop Them

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

person extinguishing a fire with a fire extinguisher By understanding what each fire class means, you can understand which fire types are a safety hazard at your business.

When buying fire extinguishers for your business, it’s important to buy the right type of fire extinguisher for your needs. There are several different classifications of fire based primarily on the fuel source. Every fire extinguisher is rated for the types of fires it’s effective in putting out. By understanding what each fire class means, you can understand which fire types are a safety hazard at your business. Once you are aware of what types of fires your business may encounter, you can buy the proper extinguisher for protecting against them.

Class A

Class A fires are defined as ordinary combustibles. These types are fires use commonly flammable material as their fuel source. Wood, fabric, paper, trash ,and plastics are common sources of Class A fires. This is essentially the common accidental fire encountered across several different industries. Trash fires are one such example. Class A fires are commonly put out with water or monoammonium phosphate.

Class B

The Class B fire is defined as one that uses a flammable liquid or gas as its fuel base. Common liquid based fuel sources include petroleum based oils and paints, kerosene, and gasoline. Flammable gases such as butane or propane are also common fuel sources in Class B fires. Class B fires are a common hazard in industries dealing with fuels, lubricants, and certain types of paint. Smothering these types of fires to remove oxygen is a common solution as are chemical reactions that produce similar effects. Note that cooking fires have their own classification and are defined as Class K fires.

Class C

The Class C fire is defined as a fire that uses electrical components and/or energized equipment as its fuel source. Electrical fires are often fueled by motors, appliances, and electronic transformers. Electrical fires are common in industries that deal with energy or make use of heavy electrically-powered equipment. However, electrical fires can occur on smaller scales in all businesses (i.e. an overloaded surge protector or bad wiring) and should be taken seriously. To extinguish such fires you cut the power off and use non-conductive chemicals to extinguish the fire.

Class D

The Class D fire is defined as one that uses a combustible metal as its fuel source. Examples of such combustible metals include titanium, magnesium, aluminum, and potassium. Note that there are also other metals with combustive properties you may encounter. Class D fires are a danger in laboratory environments. However, be aware that combustible metals are used as part of production and other industry processes, and you need to be certain of what materials you are using for day-to-day operations. When confronted with such a fire, common extinguishing agents such as water are ineffective and can be hazardous. To extinguish a Class D fire, use a dry powder agent. This absorbs the heat the fire requires to burn and smothers it as well.

Class K

A Class K fire is defined as a cooking fire involving combustion from liquids used in food preparation. Technically a type of liquid fire, Class K fires are distinct enough to warrant their own classification. Cooking fires are fueled by a wide range of liquid cooking materials. Greases, cooking oils, vegetable fat, and animal fat are all fuel sources found in Class K fires. Class K fires are naturally of concern in the food service and restaurant industry. Such fires can be very dangerous and far more destructive than you may think. Wet chemical fire extinguishers have become popular in putting out these types of fires.

The Right Extinguisher for The Right Fire

It is very important to have the right tool for a job. Fire extinguishers are no different. By being aware of the five classes of fires, you can be sure that you are purchasing safety equipment that will be effective should an accident or emergency occur.

What to Know about Protein Fires

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

A steak frying could lead to a potential protein fire Protein fires occur most often as a result of frying, grilling, or sauteing, but they may happen any time you cook high-protein food.

What Is a Protein Fire?

Although protein fire isn’t a well-known term, it’s one of the most common types of kitchen fires. A protein fire involves burning high protein foods like meat, fish, poultry, and eggs. They release grease and proteins into the air, often as a fine mist that coats surfaces throughout the kitchen.

One of the biggest problems with protein fires is that they don’t always have significant flames or heavy smoke. In fact, even just regular cooking can produce a heavy build-up of grease and soot in the kitchen. Protein fires occur most often as a result of frying, grilling, or sauteing, but they may happen any time you cook high-protein foods.

What Are the Signs of a Protein Fire?

The signs of protein fire may be after burning food, but they also will build up over time.

  • Persistent meat or grease smells that become rancid over time
  • Sticky surfaces that are nearly impossible to clean
  • Yellowish to brown stains that form drip-like patterns
  • Brown or black soot stain that seems to appear after cooking

Why Cleaning up a Protein Fire Is Difficult

While you will notice burned food, it is easy to overlook the risk of protein fires because of the lack of flames and heavy smoke. As a result, the grease and soot residue of protein fires often go unnoticed for weeks or even months. Even if there is a significant flair-up or smoke, the risk of protein fires goes overlooked unless there is flame damage.

The grease and soot will build up over time and lead to yellowish-brown stains and rancid, meaty odors. By the time you see or smell the signs of a protein fire, the stains are set in and difficult to clean.

The grease not only seeps into porous surfaces but also discolors most surfaces. The grease and soot along with other dirt and dust create a sticky layer that most regular cleaners cannot cut through. Even with repeated cleaning and deodorizing, protein fire stains and smells will remain.

How to Prevent Dryer Fires

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

Dryer Fires Four simple best practices to ensure safety in the laundry room

1. Clean the Lint Filter

Not once a month, or even once a week: “Clean the lint from the dryer’s lint screen after every load,” says Richard Handel, the test engineer who oversees CR’s laundry appliance lab. “This helps prevent a fire, and it also helps your laundry dry faster.”

2. Replace Accordion-Style Ducts

Generally, dryers are equipped with a 4-inch vent in the back, which homeowners or installers connect to the exterior vent with a duct. But not all ducts will do.

If you see a plastic or foil accordion-style duct connecting your appliance to the vent, it’s a good idea to replace it. These are risky because they can sag, allowing lint to build up at low points and trapping lint in their ridges.

Handel recommends a rigid metal duct. “The smooth walls allow the air to flow, and also reduce the buildup of lint,” he says. “A flexible metal duct should be your second choice.”

One other tip: Use duct connectors and metal clamps or foil tape to join sections of duct rather than sheet-metal screws, which can catch lint and cause buildup inside the duct.

3. Clean the Dryer Duct Annually (at Least)

If you notice that your dryer takes longer to dry laundry than it used to, that’s a clue that there may be a blockage in the dryer vent system. When you’re drying a load, go outside and look at the vent. Do you see or feel exhaust air? If not, the vent or the exhaust duct may be blocked with lint.

Start by disconnecting your dryer from the power source. And if you have a gas dryer, also turn off the gas valve near the dryer.

“Carefully slide the dryer away from the wall so that you can access the vent that’s typically in the back of the dryer,” Handel says. “If you have a gas dryer, take care not to overstretch or damage the gas line.”

Disconnect the duct from the dryer, and vacuum both the dryer and the duct—as much as you can access. Where possible, separate the duct into shorter sections for better access, then reassemble and attach the duct to the dryer. Be sure all joints in the duct are properly connected and held together with clamps or foil tape. Then return the dryer to its original spot and reconnect the power.

While you’re at it, clean behind the dryer and underneath it—lint builds up there, too. In winter, check after windy weather or snowstorms to be sure that snow isn’t blocking the outdoor vent.

4. Handle Chemical Stains With Care

Clothes stained with gas, cooking oil, cleaning agents, or other flammable chemicals or substances need special care. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends washing such stained clothing more than once to minimize volatile chemicals, then hanging to dry.

If you must use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting and a drying cycle that concludes with a cool-down period.

In the event that a fire does start, keep the dryer door closed to limit its oxygen supply—a fire needs oxygen to keep it going.

How Do You Put Out an Electrical Fire?

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

What to do if you have an electrical fire Preparing for how to put out an electrical fire, even if you don’t have a fire extinguisher, could be the difference between a minor accident and a ma

Taking precautions such as system upgrades is a smart way to lower your risk of electrical fires. However, it's important to know best practices should you ever be faced with one. Preparing for how to put out an electrical fire, even if you don’t have a fire extinguisher, could be the difference between a minor accident and a major catastrophe.

Put Your Safety First

If an electrical fire is growing quickly and you’re not able to turn the electricity off, you need to put your safety first. To ensure that you’ll have a backup if you’re not able to put out the fire yourself, call 911 right away and be sure to tell the dispatcher that it’s an electrical fire. Then before attempting to put out the fire yourself, make sure you can see two clear pathways to safety. Once one of those two pathways becomes blocked or unsafe to approach, evacuate immediately. It is not worth risking your life.

Disconnect the Electricity

First, disconnect the electricity from the source of the fire. If an appliance is a source, unplug it immediately. Unplugging it will reduce the risk that the flames will spread, and you can focus your efforts on that one source of the fire. If you can’t unplug the source, you’ll need to disconnect the electricity in your home. If you can safely get to your electrical panel, go there immediately and turn the power off. Once you’ve killed the electricity, you are no longer at risk of electrocution, and the source of the fire is now cut off.

Use Baking Soda for Small Electrical Fires

If the fire began in an appliance or an overloaded cord, once you’ve unplugged the power source, toss baking soda over the flames. Baking soda contains the chemical compound sodium bicarbonate, which is also in Class C fire extinguishers. Keeping an open box of baking soda easily accessible could become a lifesaver if a small appliance like a toaster or crockpot bursts into flames.

Never Use Water While the Power Is On

Although it may be your first impulse, never use water on any size electrical fire if your power is still on. Water conducts electricity, so if you toss water onto the flames, you are at risk of being badly shocked.

Microwave Oven Safety Tips

8/15/2021 (Permalink)

Using a microwave oven safely Follow These Tips When Using a Microwave Oven

There may be no more convenient way to heat food than using a microwave oven. Even the most novice of chefs can feel like Wolfgang Puck just by hitting a few buttons. However, using a microwave oven can pose a fire hazard if you are not careful. So, take precautions to mitigate the risk.

Follow These Tips When Using a Microwave Oven

  • Always follow the manufacturer’s installation and operating instructions as well as their safety precautions before using a new microwave oven.
  • Never use an extension cord, plug your microwave oven directly into a wall socket.
  • Always supervise children when they are using a microwave oven.
  • To minimize the risk of fire, use only microwave-safe food containers or dishes. Never use aluminum foil or metal in a microwave oven. The metal can spark a fire.
  • Never attempt to dry or sterilize baby bottles, clothes or blankets in microwave ovens, as these may result in a fire once removed from oven.
  • Reduce fire potential by cleaning the microwave oven regularly.  Always unplug the oven when cleaning and be sure to clean the inside and outer edge of the microwave.
  • Never use recycled paper in microwave ovens, unless it is specifically approved for microwave use. Recycled products, including paper towels, have minute metal flecks; these can cause sparks and even flames.
  • When cooking popcorn, heat according to the instructions, begin with the minimum time specified, as some microwaves can scorch popcorn in as little as two minutes.

Contact SERVPRO of Kendall County For Fire & Smoke Restoration Services

If your oven does catch fire, turn it off immediately and unplug the power cord if it is safe to do so. Do not open the door of the microwave. Wait until the fire dies out. Following these safety tips can help you avoid a potentially dangerous disaster. And, if your home requires fire and smoke damage restoration service, contact SERVPRO of Kendall County.

4 Key Steps for Homeowners Dealing with Fire Damage

8/14/2021 (Permalink)

Homeowners Dealing with Fire Damage Fire is scary and cleanup can be stressful, but the best thing you can do now is to keep a level head and take on the next steps calmly and deliberate

 Contact your insurance company right away.

If you have insurance on your property, you’ll want to call them as soon as the fire is safely extinguished. Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy so that you know what is covered, and you can ensure you receive full and fair payment.

The best thing you can do is read through your insurance coverage and familiarize yourself with what it entails.

Each policy is different, so this will greatly affect how you decide to move forward.

In the case of home insurance, a majority of policies cover the value of the home as it was before the fire.

In the event of a total loss, the insurance company may settle by paying you the policy amount for the home in addition to whatever contents were in the home at the time of the fire.

Other expenses, like the demolition of the home, may also be covered.

Take pictures or videos to document everything that was damaged or destroyed so that you have proof to show the insurance company.

Don’t throw anything away, and make a list of all the damaged or lost items, too.

The more you have to back up your claim, the better.

If your adjuster can physically see the items, it makes the claims process much more seamless.

If you experienced a total loss and were unable to save any necessities, let your insurance company know. You may be entitled to a partial payout to recover items you need immediately.

2. Have the damage inspected by a third-party, licensed professional.

Generally speaking, having an insurance-assigned adjuster inspect a total loss after fire damage isn’t sufficient.

Because these adjusters work for the insurance company, they are inclined to make decisions based on the insurance company’s best interest rather than yours.

This is why it can be in your best interest to hire a licensed contractor or structural engineer to accurately evaluate the extent of the destruction, determine the integrity of the structure, and provide an honest estimate of the overall cost of repairs.

An adequate inspection should include:

  • structure
  • roof
  • siding
  • concrete and/or stucco
  • plumbing
  • heating systems
  • framing
  • interior walls

3. Decide if you should repair or demolish and rebuild

If you have insurance on the property, your policy may limit how you proceed. For example, what you consider a total loss may not be a total loss to the insurance company.

Determine the cost to demolish.

The average cost to repair fire damage is roughly $9,800, while the average cost to demolish a fire-damaged structure is $8,800.

However, your specific circumstance will determine which solution would be the smarter option.

4. Hire the right contractor for the job.

Whether you decide to repair or demolish your property, be strategic and thorough when choosing a contractor.

They should be experienced in the work being done as well as be familiar with working alongside insurance companies.

The Importance of Smoke Damage Restoration After a Fire

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke Damage Restoration After a Fire Fire wreaks havoc on your home not only while the flame is active, but also in the days and weeks that follow.

When a fire breaks out, it’s devastating not only for your family but for your home as well. Fire wreaks havoc on your home not only while the flame is active, but also in the days and weeks that follow. Whether caused by faulty wiring or a kitchen accident, it’s important to understand exactly how to restore your house during the aftermath of a fire. As long as you act quickly, SERVPRO of Kendall County can help you to repair what’s been lost. Here are a few things to keep in mind in regard to smoke damage following a fire.

Acting Quickly

The longer that you wait to call, the longer the repairs will take. Not only will the repairs take longer, but the damage will be more extensive as well. In the minutes after a fire, the acid from the soot begins to stain and discolor the surfaces of your home. Fabric materials are especially susceptible to this residue. As time ticks on, the damage only worsens. You’ll begin to see that the walls in your home are yellow in the hours following the fire. Metal fixtures may also start to rust. If you wait weeks to call SERVPRO of Kendall County, the surfaces in your home may be permanently damaged. Not only will the walls begin to weaken, but you’ll also find that they’re completely discolored. While a large portion of these items can be repaired, some may need to be replaced entirely.

Clearing the Odor

The smell of smoke is difficult to remove from a home. Even months after a house fire, the odor could linger if measures haven’t been taken to eliminate it. Soft surfaces are especially susceptible to the smell of smoke. Furniture, curtains, and carpet tend to soak up the smell and retain it. For this reason, calling in the help of SERVPRO of Kendall County can help. Experts understand how difficult it can be to deodorize your home following a fire. By acting quickly to remove the smoke residue from your home, it reduces the risk that the scent will linger.

Repairing Your Wiring

A portion of house fires are caused by faulty electrical equipment or wires. When this is the case, there’s a good chance that the wiring needs to be completely replaced. Not only will your electrical system need to be repaired, but it should be thoroughly inspected too. This ensures that there isn’t any additional corrosion to the outlets, wires, or cords. With the right help, you can repair the existing damage and prevent future flames from occurring.

Staining

The quicker that you act, the less likely your home is to experience permanent damage. Without proper attention, you may see that the wood and plastic surfaces in your home begin to warp. They may also become discolored. The metals, granite, and marble in your home could become tarnished, too. Don’t allow the fire to completely destroy the finishes in your house. Instead, act quickly to enlist the help of restoration specialists.

The cleanup following a house fire should be handled professionally. With SERVPRO of Kendall County handling your clean-up, you’ll have your home back in no time. 

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make Following Fire Damage

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

Common mistakes after a fire What to do after the fire department has left.

After the flames of a house fire have dwindled, you would think all the damage has been done. However, the damage can actually get worse if the right actions are not taken in the right order. Here are the 3 most common mistakes homeowners in Kendall County make following a fire that can actually lead to more damage: 

Fire Damage In Kendall County

Getting Overwhelmed

Now, this is much easier said than done, but you cannot let yourself become overwhelmed. Most of the time, homeowners will assume the damages done to their home are at 100 percent, when, in actuality, it is only at 25 percent. We know it looks bad (really bad) once the flames are out. Charred materials, soot, and ash all leave behind a pretty devastating scene to the untrained eye, especially when it is your own home and belongings that you are seeing the remains of. With the right professional help, nearly anything and everything can be repaired and restored to preloss condition – which just so happens leads to the next most common (and costly) mistake.

Failing To Call A Certified Fire Damage Restoration Company, such as SERVPRO of Kendall County

Trying to save a little money by handling fire damage repair on your own, or having a friend try to help you when neither of you has the proper expertise or experience, will actually end up costing you more in the long run (both with time and money). You need to call a company that is licensed and certified in proper fire damage repair and restoration (the bonus is they are also a licensed general contractor) as soon as the fire is put out. With emergency response services, SERVPRO of Kendall County not only handles all the cleanup, but they can also rebuild your home and are available as soon as the disaster happens. Calling SERVPRO of Kendall County ensures that your home will be restored to its preloss condition as quickly as possible, all while mitigating any further damage. Consequently, you will be able to let go of any overwhelming feelings when you call SERVPRO of Kendall County because they will handle everything, and we mean everything, so this will also help you avoid mistake number one.

Not Keeping A Record of Damage

Your homeowner’s insurance will reimburse you for your losses in the fire as long as you have a detailed record of the damage. Photos and lists can help you keep an accurate inventory of your belongings, including what can be saved and what is a total loss. Once the fire department has deemed the premises safe to enter, you need to remove as many valuable belongings as possible to increase the odds of salvaging them. This is a good time to assess damages, gather personal belongings, and begin the task of recording damages for your insurance. Everything that was lost should be recorded, even down to food that was discarded. 

10 Simple Tips to Help You Avoid Fires

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Simple Tips to Help You Avoid Fires Be proactive with these simple tips to avoid fires

A home is often referred to as a safe haven.  Make sure your home is protected from (and your family is prepared for) a fire. Here are 10 simple tips to help you avoid fires and reduce the risk of injury should one occur:

  1. Smoke Alarms – These are still a very important addition to your home. Smoke alarms are widely available and inexpensive. Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home and test it monthly.
  2. Prevent Electrical Fires – Don’t overload circuits or extension cords. Cords and wires should never be placed under rugs or in high-traffic areas. Avoid loose electrical connections by checking the fit of the plugin in the wall outlet. If the plug loosely fits, inspect the outlet right away. A poor connection between the plug and the outlet can cause overheating and can start a fire in minutes.
  3. Keep Plugs Safe – Unplug all appliances when not in use. Follow the manufacturer’s safety precautions and use your senses to spot any potential disasters. If a plug is overheating, smells strange, shorts out or sparks – the appliance should be shut off immediately, then replaced or repaired.
  4. Alternate Heaters – Make sure there is ample space around any portable heating unit. Anything that could catch fire should be at least three feet away. Inspect your chimney annually and use fire screens to help keep any fires in the fireplace.
  5. Fire Safety Sprinklers – When combined with working smoke alarms, home fire sprinklers greatly increase your chance of surviving a fire. Sprinklers are affordable and they can increase property value and lower insurance rates.
  6. Create An Escape Route – Create and practice your escape plan with your family from every room in the house. Practice staying low to the floor and checking for hot doors using the back of your hand. It’s just like a routine school fire drill – but in your home.
  7. Position Appliances Carefully – Try to keep TV sets, kitchen, and other appliances away from windows with curtains. If there is a wiring problem, curtains can spread a fire quickly. Additionally, keeping your appliances away from water sources (like rain coming in from windows) can help prevent wiring damage which can lead to a fire.
  8. Clean Dryer Vents – Clothes dryers often start fires in residential areas. Clean the lint filter every time you start a load of clothes to dry or after the drying cycle is complete. Make sure your exhaust duct is made of metal tubing and not plastic or foil. Clean the exhaust duct with a good quality dryer vent brush to prevent blockage & check for lint build-up behind the dryer at least twice a year.
  9. Be Careful Around the Holidays – If you fill your home with lights during the holiday season, keep them away from anything that can easily catch fire. Check all of your lights prior to stringing them up and dispose of anything with frayed or exposed wires.
  10. Conduct Regular Inspections – Check all of your electronic equipment and wiring at least once a month. Taking a little time to do this each month can really pay off.

The Dangers of Fire and Smoke Damage

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

The Dangers of Fire and Smoke Damage Smoke from a fire may cause lingering damage

Fires are devastating on so many levels, from the damage caused by the flames to the properties that get reduced to ashes, to the injuries resulting from smoke exposure, heat, and escaping the devastation. But there are hidden dangers created by the fire and smoke that can linger long after the flames have died and the air clears up.

A Lingering Damage

During a home fire, the smoke and heat permeate throughout the house and can embed themselves deep into your furniture, wood, insulation, and other things. This strong odor often lingers and can be so overpowering that it causes nausea and coughing even days after the fire has been put out.

When a fire burns through toxic materials including plastic, the airborne pollutants can settle into your insulation and ductwork. Without proper fire restoration, these waste products can linger and make you sick.

It Stinks

Fire and smoke damage leaves an unpleasant odor in your furniture, carpets, drapes, and clothes that are difficult to remove. Unfortunately, though, a simple washing or scrubbing with laundry detergent won’t be enough to get rid of the smell. If you have smoke damage in your home, you’ll need special equipment such as an ozone generator to get rid of the odor—and that’s something only professionals like us have access to.

Also, the longer you wait, the worse it gets. If you leave it sitting long enough, you may never be able to get rid of the smell or even salvage anything.

Smoked and Weakened

Smoke can cause major damages to your home long after the flames have been put out. If you don’t clean it immediately, the smoke can weaken your walls and other wooden structures. Even if the wood wasn’t damaged by the fire, the smolder can seep into it and compromise the structure.

Moreover, it’s not just wood that’s at risk, as the smoke and heat damage can also weaken your home’s foundation and structure.

Fire damage restoration is serious work—one that should only be entrusted to certified professionals. Get in touch with us now and we’ll do our best to help deal with all your fire and smoke damage, as well as contents cleaning needs.

Hazards of Smoke and Soot

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

smoke and soot damage There are many Hazards of Smoke and Soot damage

You’ve suffered a fire, and finances aren’t looking so great… Your idea: Save a few bucks on fire restoration by handling some of the cleanings yourself. Good plan, right? Maybe not. Smoke and soot are more than a dirty little reminder of the disastrous fire that took its toll on your home.  

Smoke and soot can be dangerous.

Leftover smoke and soot following a fire are more than just smelly and unsightly. Exposure during fire restoration efforts can adversely affect your health. 

What makes smoke and soot so dangerous?

When combustion occurs during a fire, not all materials burn cleanly, resulting in smoke and soot. These waste products - solids, liquids, and gases - may be composed of various chemicals that are harmful to your health. Today’s modern structures hold an array of chemicals not found in early homes, including plastics, foams, fabrics, carpets, wood products, synthetic fabrics, wool, and asbestos-containing materials, which could result in health hazards that make fire restoration a dangerous and difficult task.

How can I be exposed?

Exposure to smoke and soot during fire restoration may occur via the skin and eyes, inhalation, and ingestion. Because airborne soot particulate is invisible, you may unknowingly be affected. 

Smoke and soot must be professionally addressed to ensure safe, successful fire restoration results.  

Unfortunately, safety risks from the fire do not end once the flames are extinguished. Fire damage can linger for years unless properly addressed. Adequate safety equipment (respiratory, skin, and eye protection) are essential in reducing possible exposure to dangerous smoke and soot, and quite possibly water and mold-related health issues resulting from firefighting efforts. Proper ventilation practices are also necessary to protect and restore indoor air quality following a fire, including HEPA filtration and adsorption (activated carbon) to preserve air quality. A bottle of degreaser and a dust mask is not enough! Professional tools, knowledge, and expertise are at the heart of thorough and safe fire restoration.

Outdoor Grill Safety

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

grill safety Safety tips whether you use a gas or charchol grill

Gas Grill Safety

A leak or break is the leading factor contributing to gas grill-related fires.

  • Check the gas cylinder hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year.
  • Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose, which will quickly reveal escaping gas by releasing bubbles.
  • If you smell or otherwise suspect a gas leak, and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and grill. If the leak stops, get a professional to service it before using it again. Call the fire department if the leak does not stop.
  • If you smell gas while cooking, get away from the grill immediately, and call the fire department. Do not attempt to move the grill.
  • Never turn on the gas when the lid is closed. The gas may build up inside, and when ignited, the lid could blow off and cause injuries or burns.
  • After cooking, make sure you completely close the valve on your gas grill.
  • Always store gas grills – and propane tanks – outside and away from your house.

Charcoal Grill Safety

The leading cause of structure fires from the use of charcoal grills was leaving or placing an object that could burn too close to the grill.

  • Charcoal grills can continue to remain hot for many hours after the flames extinguish. Avoid placing any burnable objects near the grill or moving the grill while the coals are hot. Keep combustible items that may be blown by the wind away from the grill.
  • Check for rust damage in metal grills, which may make it possible for charcoal to fall through onto surfaces below and cause a fire.
  • Purchase the proper starter fluid. Store out of reach from children and away from heat sources.
  • Do not add charcoal starter fluid when coals or kindling have already been ignited. Never use any other flammable or combustible liquid to get the fire started.
  • If the fire is too low, rekindle with dry kindling and more charcoal if needed. Avoid adding liquid fuel because it can cause a flash fire.
  • Do not leave the grill unattended.

Here are some other important tips to help you keep danger away when you are enjoying food and fun.

Choose a safe location for your grill. Keep grills on a level surface more than ten feet away from the house, garage, or other structures. Keep children and pets away, as well as overhanging branches. Grills should not be used on a balcony or under an overhang. Avoid placing grills too close to combustible deck rails.

Grill outside only. Never use a grill in a garage, vehicle, tent, or other enclosed space, even if ventilated, due to the risk of harmful carbon monoxide buildup.

Keep the grill going on a cold day. During cool weather days, avoid wearing a scarf or other loose clothing that may catch on fire. Consumer Reports recommends shielding the grill from wind, placing it about ten feet from combustible surfaces and materials, and keeping the lid closed to retain as much heat as possible. Allow extra time for pre-heating the grill in colder weather and check temperatures of meat and fish with a meat thermometer to ensure that food is safe to eat.

Teach kids to stay safe. Make a “kid-free zone” of at least three feet around the grill and areas where hot food is prepared or carried. Children under five are especially vulnerable to burns from contact with a hot grill surface. Grill contact accounted for 37% of burns seen at emergency rooms in 2014 involving children under five.²

Remember post-grilling safety. Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill. If you grill with charcoal and need to dispose of the coals, soak them in water to extinguish them before disposing in a metal container. Otherwise, cover the grill tightly and close the vents, this should extinguish the coals and whatever is left will be ready for next time.

 

How to Prevent a Clothes Dryer Fire

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Avoid dryer fires Follow these 5 Tips on how to avoid a dryer fire

Avoid the dangers of clothes dryer fires with these five tips and call an expert fire damage repair company to restore your home if your dryer does catch on fire.

  1. Clean Lint Filters After Each Load

It cannot be stressed enough that you should always clean the lint filter before tossing in a new load of laundry. If a lint filter isn’t cleaned after each load, it can cause a build-up of lint that could potentially become a fire hazard. Even if there’s only a small amount of fluff on the filter, you should clean it anyway to keep up with the habit.

Not only does cleaning your dryer’s lint filter help prevent a fire, but it can also optimize your dryer’s performance and help your laundry dry faster.

  1. Clean Dryer Ducts Once a Year

At least once a year, it’s a smart move to take a look at your clothes dryer’s ducts. You can often find blockages of lint in or around your dryer’s ducts. Take the time once a year to disconnect the power from your dryer, and if you have a gas dryer, also shut the valve, then inspect and clean the back of your machine.

Use a cloth rag and a broom to sweep up the lint resting inside and out of the ducts. Lint will find any nook and cranny to build up in.

  1. Use Care When Handling Chemical Stains

It’s easy to throw a stained garment into the dryer without considering how the stain could react to intense heat, but you can never be too safe when it comes to preventing a clothes dryer fire in your home. Clothes get all kinds of stains on them – including gas, cooking oil, cleaning agents, or other flammable chemicals.

  1. Keep the Area Around Your Dryer Clean

The last thing you want to do is feed a dryer fire with flammable items. Wherever you keep your dryer in your home, be sure to keep the area around it clutter-free. Your laundry space may seem like an excellent place to use as storage, but it’s not when you consider the risks. Avoid storing cleaning products, boxes, and other highly flammable items near your dryer.

  1. Don’t Overload Your Dryer

It’s easy to let dirty laundry pile up and then overload your clothes dryer in an attempt to catch up on it. Even if it feels like a good idea, you could be putting yourself and your home at a higher risk. Split your loads up, so your dryer doesn’t go into overdrive. The more clothes that are in the dryer, the longer it takes to dry and the hotter it gets. Overheating could potentially lead to a fire sparking inside your home.

What To Do After a Residential Fire

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Tips for after a house fire Be prepared after a residential fire disaster.

It’s hard to imagine the damage and destruction a fire can leave in its wake. Even small ones can require extensive repair and restoration.

Hopefully, you’ll never have to deal with picking up the pieces after a damaging fire. But unfortunately, we won’t all be so lucky. As recent as 2018, there were more than 1.3 million fires in America, resulting in $25 billion in losses. On average, a residential fire occurs every 87 seconds in the United States.

It’s important to be prepared. Here are three steps you can take toward fire damage repair and restoration after a fire:

  1. Beware of health hazards
  2. Consider smoke damage
  3. Call a fire damage restoration company

1. Beware of Health Hazards

Some people mistakenly believe that once a fire is put out, the danger is gone. However, homes that have suffered from fire damage can contain many hidden health hazards.

House fires typically release harmful toxins into the air. These are harmful to breathe in; some may even cause cancer. You shouldn’t re-enter your home after a fire until the fire department declares that it’s safe to do so.

If you have to re-enter your home for whatever reason, make sure you’re wearing appropriate protective gear. Keep in mind that if you have to board up your home after a fire, it will take even longer for those toxins to exit the house.

You’ll also need to make safe decisions about which items in your home you can keep and which ones you need to let go of. Think first about the essentials:

  • Food: Throw away any open containers of food in your cupboards and cabinets. If any food has been exposed to heat, water, or smoke, then throw it away, regardless of if it’s open or not. If your refrigerator lost power during or after the fire, then throw away all of the food in your fridge. 
  • Medicine: Carefully inspect any medicine you’re hoping to keep. If there are any signs of smoke damage or fire extinguisher residue, it’s best to throw it away.
  • Clothing: Throw away any clothing that has been burned or has soot on it. Remember, some toxins can enter the body through the skin.

2. Consider Smoke Damage

Your first priority after a fire is making sure everyone you love is safe. But after everyone is accounted for, what will you focus on next? 

Your thoughts may turn to your possessions, especially any valuables or keepsakes you’re hoping to salvage. As you learn more about the extent of the damage, you may consider what essentials you’ll need until your home is restored. 

It may take a while before you start thinking about your home itself. Don’t delay for too long. Smoke damage sets in quickly and needs to be handled in a timely manner. 

Smoke particles can seep into your walls, floors, curtains, furniture, bedding, and more, allowing the smell of smoke to linger for months after the fire. The sooner you address smoke damage, the more likely you won’t have to deal with long-lasting or permanent smoke damage issues.

3. Call a Fire Damage Restoration Company

Most people grow up practicing fire drills so they know what to do during a fire, but no one practices what to do after a fire. SERVPRO of Kendall County has the skills, experience, and training to help you restore your home.

FIRE DAMAGE RESTORATION TIPS

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Restoration Tips If you have experienced a fire here are some tips to help clean up.

REPAIRING SMOKE DAMAGE TO WALLS

With fires, there will always be a degree of smoke damage to your walls, wallpaper, and paint. If the smoke damage is not too serious, you should be able to scrub it clean with detergents and bleach. Note: soot from smoke damage is greasy stuff so you should always try to dust as much of it off from a surface before trying to scrub it clean. Often, you’ll want to repaint, but make sure all surfaces are clean and dry before painting.

GETTING RID OF MOLD & MILDEW

Another huge issue in fire damage restoration is actually introduced by the water used to extinguish a fire. This problem is mold and mildew and requires special attention. We highly recommend SERVPRO of Kendall County to deal with mold and mildew, because it can cause serious health effects, and can contaminate furniture, carpets, clothing, mattresses, walls, and vents. The best thing you can do immediately is air out every room and clean out all vents and filters.

REPAIRING FLOORING & CARPET

With all the water that is involved in putting out a fire, your floors and carpets will end up absorbing the worst of it. In almost every case, it’s recommended that you pull up any carpets that have water damage and replace them. Water can also seep underneath vinyl flooring and into cracks of hardwood, and will need to be addressed. If you have experience with flooring, you can lift it up and clean under them, but you may want to call a SERVPRO of Kendall County to assist you.

CLEANING CLOTHING

Cleaning smoke damage from clothing is one of the biggest jobs you’ll find after a fire. Our biggest tip is to make sure you don’t smear the greasy soot into the clothing or just throw the smoky clothes into the wash. Often times dry cleaning is the best bet, and you should ask around local dry cleaners to see if any have experience with post-fire laundry.

CLEANING DISHES

Dishes are also important items to clean thoroughly after a fire because they will be in contact with your food and can cause health problems. Scrub all dishes well, let them soak in a solution of bleach and water (2 tablespoons of bleach per gallon) for at least 20 minutes, and scrub some more for safety. When in doubt, if a dish, pot, or pan won’t come clean, cut your losses and throw it out – (especially rubber or wooden dishes that absorb smoke).

Furniture cleaning after a fire in Kendall County

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

cleaning contents Cleaning furniture with soot and smoke damage.

Furniture restoration following a fire, smoke, and water damage begins with a damage assessment. SERVPRO of Kendall County will determine the extent of your furniture damage and determine the cost to repair versus the cost to replace furniture, so you can have reasonable expectations about the restoration of your furniture and our contents restoration services. We will start with the inspection and provide you with an estimate before we begin the contents restoration process. 

We are an experienced furniture and upholstery contents restoration company and offer inspections, contents estimates, direct insurance billing, and prompt and professional cleanup and restoration. 

SERVPRO of Kendall County restores upholstered, wood, leather furniture, and fabrics, including draperies, rugs and carpeting from water damage, fire damage, and smoke damage. Our highly-trained technicians use specialized cleaning and contents restoration methods to restore your contents.

Had a fire in Oswego, IL? SERVPRO can help!

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage to home When you need help with fire restoration, call SERVPRO of Kendall County (630) 554-2280

A fire can be an extremely harrowing experience and major inconvenience. Even the smallest issue can cause extensive damage, as flames, smoke, heat, and the water used to put out flames later become odors, stains, and mold threats.

Saving your home is our area of expertise. We are the Fire and Water Restoration Professionals you can count on when disaster big or small strikes in your home. We put our expertise and experience to work coupled with the latest technology and processes to ensure customer satisfaction you can trust.

At SERVPRO of Kendall County, we have the knowledge and experience to deal with all aspects of fire damage. As soon as we are on the scene, we act quickly and efficiently to secure the fire scene through our expert structural securement, board-up, and tarping to prevent further damage. We then work to clear out the debris, soot, and water damage. Afterwards, we initiate the construction and reconstruction work necessary to bring your home back to order. "Like it never even happened."

In each phase of our restoration process we take deliberate steps to restore your home to it’s original comfortable state.

Is it Wet or Dry Smoke?

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Different Types of Smoke

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

Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

Dryer Vent Cleaning

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

Dryer vent cleaning prevents fires. If you live in Oswego or any other area within Kendall County, you will want to make sure that your home is completely safe. Whether by flooding, fire or some other mishap, there are plenty of ways that your property can be threatened. One of the best ways to ensure that you are prepared for a catastrophic emergency is always to have a local residential and commercial property cleanup and restoration service.

Dryer Vent Cleaning Prevents Fires 

Keep your property from sustaining irreversible fire damage. Making sure your dryer vents are clean and free from obstruction will help keep your property safe from the possibility of a fire. It's also an excellent precaution to take to keep the air in the building from getting choked up with dust, lint and other health hazards that can accumulate in a dryer vent. 

Get Help from a Local Cleanup and Restoration Service 

It's up to you to contact an expert local cleaning and fire restoration service to ensure that your vents get cleaned in a correct and timely fashion. When you are in doubt as to whether the vents or other areas in your home are functioning correctly, a good, thorough cleaning is never a bad idea. 

Even if it turns out that your property is not quite yet due for a full cleaning, a reputable local cleanup service can help such as removing any excess pollen or debris that has accumulated in the vents. This way, you can save a great deal of time, money and worry by taking timely preventative measures. Keeping the proper level of air quality in your home or commercial building will go a long way toward keeping the structure safe for your family or employees to inhabit. An expert local service will ultimately save you a great deal of time and stress.

Expert Help for Dryer Vent Cleaning Is Available 

At SERVPRO of Kendall County, we know that dryer vent cleaning in Oswego prevents fires. This is only one of the many services that we can provide for you to make sure that your home or commercial property will be safe against the event of an unforeseen mishap or emergency. If an emergency should befall your property, you'll want to call a service that can get to you in a prompt and timely manner. 

Commercial Fire Checklist

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

The fire services recommend this checklist to assist your small business in preventing damage that could be caused by fire:

  • Avoid storing or stockpiling flammable materials such as packaging materials or waste where they could be accessed by the public, including areas immediately outside your business premises.
  • Make sure all machinery is serviced as recommended by manufacturers and is kept clean. If possible, switch machinery off when the business is unattended.
  • Secure all doors, windows or other access points when the business is unattended, and make sure your business has adequate lighting to deter trespassers.
  • Ensure your business has an adequately serviced and functional fire alarm system that is suitable to your small business example: Remote serviced alarm systems, sprinkler systems, thermal or smoke alarms etc.
  • If your business stores dangerous goods, ensure their storage and use adheres to legislative requirements.
  • Make sure your business has a written and practiced fire escape plan that includes full staff lists and designated meeting points.

Summer Safety

5/11/2018 (Permalink)

Summer is filled with barbecues, parades and fireworks displays; but along with all the festivities are plenty of visits to emergency room- especially during July.

There is nothing like firing up the grill during the summer months!  Did you know, July is the peak month for grill fires?  A backyard barbeque can become dangerous quickly if proper safety precautions aren’t considered.  Your local SERVPRO of Kendall County Professionals want you to have an enjoyable and safe summer.  Consider the following tips to help ensure your summer celebrations are fun and disaster-free!

·         Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors

·         The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

·         Keep children and pets away from grill area.

·         Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.

·         Never leave your grill unattended.

·         When using a charcoal grill, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

·         Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear.

Each year fireworks are responsible for thousands of house fires with millions of dollars in property damage.

·         Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks.  Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire.  Children should never pick up fireworks that may be left over as they may still be active.

Kendall County Residential Fire

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Small Fires can Pose High Risks 

While you should never pour water on a grease fire, nor on an electrical one, many times that is a person's first reaction anywhere. This can cause even more damage. Cooking fires and electrical shorts are common causes. It can also create physical risks to people standing nearby. With grease fires, baking soda should be poured into the skillet and any grease or oil that has caught fire outside of the cooking pan or skillet instead of water. 

With electrical fires, the appliance should be unplugged if it can be safely done, but not by pulling on the cord. This can cause the cord to snap, leaving the plug, without the cord, still in the outlet. The power to the area where this is happening should be shut off at the fuse box as quickly as possible to eliminate the hazard. 

After the Fire is Out, It's Time to Repair the Damage 

When there's been a localized fire, you should have someone assess the damages for you. This can often help with insurance documentation. Landlords, if you are renting, will also appreciate if you inform them of the fire, and they can see the damage for themselves. It is every landlord's worst nightmare to have a fire or flood damage their properties. If they can see the amount of damage, they can rest easier knowing the extent of the repairs required.

Damage can range from blackened walls and countertops to heavily burned surfaces, electrical wires being damaged and requiring replacement, to floors suffering damage so severe they must be replaced to be safe again. Having experts conduct the repairs needed can greatly facilitate insurance claims being resolved, as well. 

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Kendall County 630-554-2280

Fires.. Did you know?

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

Residential Fire in Oswego Area

Home fires can begin out of the blue, however taking preventative measures can incredibly lower the danger of a fire in your home. Although some home firse are very self-evident, it's essential to know about them and be proactive in preventing them. Here are some of the top home fire starters with tips on the best way to prevent them: 

Cooking

Cooking is the main cause of home fires. Unattended cooking, and grease build-up, are the most frequent reasons for fires in the kitchen. Continuously supervise the range or stove when cooking and keep the kitchen surfaces free from grease to prevent fires.

Candles

Fires caused from candles are more frequent during holidays, such as Christmas and Halloween. Always keep candles far from draperies, embellishments and other combustibles, and ensure candle holders are steady. Utilizing battery-operated candles rather than real candles is a much safer option.

Children Playing with Fire

Some children play with fire just wondering, not understanding that it can be extremely dangerous. Keep lighters, matches and other flammables out of youngsters' sight and reach. Likewise, avoid as much as possible from using lighters and matches in front of them, as many children mimic what they see the adults do.

Heating Equipment

Amid the colder months, heating equipment, for example electric radiators or fireplaces, are major fire hazards in the home. Place radiators at a safe distance from combustible materials and always supervise them when they are operating. Check your smokestacks for creosote build-up on a regular basis and never utilize combustible fluids to begin a fire in the fireplace.

Electrical Causes

Obsolete wiring and breaker boxes, as well as old appliances, present a fire risk. Additionally, connecting excessively numerous machines to an extension cord can cause the cord or appliance to overheat and a fire to start. Watch for worn cords with exposed wires.

Smoking

Fires brought about by lit cigarettes can begin when a person nods off with a cigarette in hand or when the embers from a butt fall on ignitable materials. Smoke outside to avoid these dangers. On the off chance that you smoke inside, abstain from doing as such when tired, and use deep and large ashtrays.

Flammable Liquids

Liquids that can catch fire include gasoline, paints, cleaning agents, thinners, and much more. Keep these chemicals in approved compartments and far from electrical and heat sources. Store them outside, in a well-ventilated area. Always read the labels for temperature ranges. 

Christmas Trees

Amid the Christmas season, many home fires can begin because of the careless utilization of Christmas tree adornments. Electrical failures and candles are the fundamental offenders of Christmas tree fires. Use only lights that have the mark of an independent testing laboratory. Furthermore, replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. NEVER decorate your tree with lit candles. Water the tree on a daily basis to prevent the tree from drying out.

Fire Damaged Contents in Kendall County

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke damaged contents from a Kitchen fire in Oswego

When it comes to cleaning smoked-damaged contents after a residential or commercial fire here in Kendall County, the variety of contents in a typical job requires restorers to utilize a variety of cleaning methods.

Here is a quick description of each method of content cleaning:

  • Dry Cleaning - Removes light to medium nongrease-based soils.
  • Wet Cleaning - Removes moderate to heavy residues. The process involves cleaning using water, with or without a cleaning agent.
  • Spray and Wipe - Apply a cleaning product using a spray bottle. After spraying, wipe the surface with a clean white towel. This method is effective for materials possibly damaged if saturated with cleaning product.
  • Foam Cleaning - Effective for light residues or delicate materials. Clean with the foam of a cleaning agent rather than the liquid
  • Abrasive Cleaning - Agitates the surface being cleaned. Apply a cleaning product containing abrasive ingredients
  • Immersion Cleaning - Dipping contents items into a bath of cleaning product. This bath is an ultrasonic tank filled with water and cleaning solution. High-frequency sound waves then create high temperatures and microscopic jet streams of fluid to agitate and scrub contents.

SERVPRO recommends that you DO NOT attempt to clean smoke-damaged surfaces or contents yourself, and call the professionals here at SERVPRO of Kendall County. Our office number is (630)554-2280.

SERVPRO of Kendall County - 5 Star Rating - Fire Victim

3/29/2016 (Permalink)

Lock 630.554.2280 into your phone!

Its been a little over 2 weeks since our fire. I dont know what we would do without Steve and his entire team!! From day 1, we havent been alone. They have been here every step of the way! They are a company with so much integrity. Everyone that we have met thus far have touched our hearts in so many ways!! Its not just a job for these people, they All truly care!! Its never what we cant do, its what we can do!!! There is not a day that goes by without a story I tell friends or family about our SERVPRO Team!! They dont miss a beat!!