Puff Backs, how to prevent them, and what to do if they happen.

1/27/2023 (Permalink)

First, it’s important to know what a puff back is. A puff back occurs when an oil burner doesn’t ignite right away and as consequence fumes build up in the furnace. The fumes cause an explosion inside the burner chamber, which vaporizes and expels soot throughout a home or business, covering walls, baseboards, furniture, and floors in oily toxic soot.

A few ways you can help prevent puff backs include:

• Make sure you get regular services for all oil burning appliances.
• Get thorough cleaning and inspections annually.
• Pay attention to any odors or noises from your furnace room.
• Keep your eye out for debris such as soot, and rust flakes.
• Install a carbon Monoxide detector.
• Check for oil leaks.

We can’t always prevent things like puff back from happening but if they do here’s some things you might be able to do to help:

• Document it (especially if you plan to report it to your insurance)
• Contact a repair service to have it repaired.
• Contact SERVPRO of University Place for a thorough cleaning.

We hope this helps you either prevent or have some ease of mind if one may occur. If you ever need assistance with a puff back be sure to call your friends at SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood at 253-896-3000.

Soot Damage

1/18/2023 (Permalink)

After a fire there is a substance that lingers in the house long after the fire called soot. Soot is a chemical reaction we call incomplete combustion. Which is basically when something is burning but there isn’t enough oxygen to burn, and the carbons make a sticky dust like substance called black soot that sticks to all surfaces and objects it floats by.

Using a chem sponge - When it comes to soot there is a special dry sponge that is very important for fire remediation called a chemical sponge, it’s a specialty sponge made of Vulcanized natural rubber which is the go-to when it comes to fire remediation as it was specifically engineered to absorb fine particulate matter such as soot.

Wet cleaning glass – non-porous materials like glass can and should be wet washed. If you don’t have soot remover, try vinegar and newspapers. Pour 1-part white vinegar to 2 parts warm water and spray and scrub with a rag until clean.

What can’t be saved - Unfortunately, some materials can’t be cleaned by chem sponge or cleaner and water. Clothes, bedding, and other textiles can often be salvaged after a fire with the proper cleaning and disinfecting. However, if anything is burnt, throw it away. Use even stricter judgment when considering your child’s or baby’s clothing. Your medicine cabinet and makeup bag are important places to check after a fire. Inspect the products stored here for signs of heat, soot, fire extinguisher dust, or other damage. If anything is warped from exposure to high heat or charred from the flames, or smells off, it’s probably best to throw it away. High heat can activate bacteria that cause food spoilage or create an undesirable taste to develop, even if the jar or can is intact. Toxic fumes can also contaminate food through sealed glass jars and aluminum cans.

Call SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood to help you get your returned to it's clean state after your fire at 253-896-3000.

What to know about chimney/ wood stove fires creosote build ups

12/15/2022 (Permalink)

It is that time of years again, temperatures drop, and the fireplaces light up and because of this there are unfortunate circumstances that can cause fire or smoke damage to your home. Chimney/wood stove fires and puff backs can be caused by a plethora of reasons. Most commonly it caused by buildup in the chimney or pipes.

How to know if you have a build up

Before first starting your chimney or wood stove this season, look up. If you a see thick black or brown substance stuck to the inside of the chimney or the pipes of the wood stove, you may have a buildup of Creosote which is a tar like substance that can stick to the inside of a fireplace. A couple more signs you may have a buildup are

• Reduced drafting in fireplace or wood stove
• Less ash and more singed wood after a fire
• Black soot in and around fireplace
• Black smoke coming from chimney

If you are knowdessing any of these signs don’t worry, here are a few tips to clean the fireplace and reduce the amount of creosote and stay warm this winter.

Keeping your chimney/wood stove clean and safe to use

You can always call a professional chimney sweeper, according to MCP chimney &masonry inc. a more budget friendly option is taking equal parts salt, dish soap and ½ cups of ammonia to make a paste (remember to open windows and/or create air circulation and wear gloves and perhaps a mask while cleaning with ammonia and handling creosote) creosote can stain any surface as well so maybe put down a plastic sheet or garbage bags as well. After you have prepared the work area, yourself, and the cleaning solution, the next step is to apply the paste you created directly to the fireplace anywhere that you can see creosote. Apply until the entire area is covered, then allow it to sit and penetrate the creosote for a period of at least 15 minutes at least. The thicker and more stubborn the creosote, the longer you can let the paste sit. After the appropriate amount of time has passed grab a steel wool or stiff wire brush to scrub in circular patterns to loosen any stubborn pieces of creosote along the surface and pipes of chimney or wood stove. After the surface is clean take a spray bottle with cold water and saturate the areas the ammonia was on to remove any remaining ammonia from the surface as the vapors can be harmful to you. You may have to repeat this cycle a few times depending on your chimney and the amount of creosote and how long it has been since last cleaned. Accidents happen, should you find yourself with smoke or fire damage you can always contact SERVPRO, and we will clean it up like it never happened. 

How to Make a Fire Escape Plan

12/2/2022 (Permalink)

Disaster can strike your home at any time. No matter how diligently you prepare, you can’t always prevent accidents and mishaps such as fires. It is possible, however, to be ready to get out of your home safely if a fire starts. Every family and business should have a fire escape plan. If you haven’t developed one yet, there are resources to help you. Once you’ve created and practiced your emergency escape plan for your home in University Place / Lakewood West, you can have peace of mind.

1. Meet and discuss what you’ll do in case of an emergency. The nature of emergencies mean they often come with little or no warning. To help prevent major injury or death, you must be prepared to act immediately. To begin your fire escape plan, meet with the members of your family or business and talk about things such as what emergency alerts you have and which ones you need; what the best route is out of the building and where you will go once you’re safely outside.

2. Evaluate your specific needs. Every situation is different, so your emergency escape plan won’t be the same as the next. Consider the ages physical limitations anyone may have. Include pets in your plan as well. Give every member an assignment and job.

2. Practice your escape. If you practice your plan, chances of success are better in the real event. Time how fast you can get out of your home and to your safe spot. Then, work on shaving the seconds off that time. The more you practice, the more confident and comfortable everyone will feel.

A good fire escape plan from your building in University Place / Lakewood West, WA, will help minimize the confusion and panic if a real fire occurs. If you need help with your emergency escape plan, the American Red Cross has some excellent resources.

The Three Most Common Causes of House Fires

12/1/2022 (Permalink)

The most common causes of home fires can be prevented with basic fire safety measures and equipment. Find out more about three common fire causes to make more informed home fire safety decisions.

1. Cooking

Cooking often involves a combination of hot stoves or ovens, open fire, and flammable substances, such as animal or vegetable oils or grease.

It is important to monitor food while cooking. If you are cooking something that takes a long time, periodically check in on the progress to prevent burning. Make sure that smoke detectors in this part of a home are functional. A fire extinguisher can promote kitchen safety but may also cause grease fires to spread. Keep baking soda and salt near the stove to smother these types of fires before covering flames with a metal lid or another pot.

2. Heating

Malfunctioning furnaces or the improper use of space heaters are common causes of heating fires. Schedule regular furnace inspections and perform periodic maintenance. Only operate a space heater on a hard, non-flammable surface while attended and at a safe distance from combustible materials.

3. Smoking

Smoking is one of the most preventable causes of a home fire. Avoid smoking in bedrooms or after taking medication that may cause drowsiness. Use stable ashtrays when smoking indoors and ensure that cigarettes are completely extinguished before leaving the room. It is safest to smoke outside and provide a wind-proof disposal solution, such as a bucket filled with sand.

Cooking, heating, and smoking are three common fire causes. A homeowner may be able to prevent or limit the damage resulting from a home fire by taking precautionary measures and installing and testing fire safety equipment such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. A damage restoration and fire cleaning service can help if a fire breaks out for any reason at a residence in Tacoma, WA.

Is Fire Insurance Required for My Commercial Cleaning?

10/1/2022 (Permalink)

While a mortgage company will most likely require a business to carry fire insurance, once a property is free of liens, the business owner may or may not choose to continue to carry coverage. Yet, in University Place / Lakewood, it is the best interest of all businesses to have fire insurance in addition to other types of business insurance.

Risks Associated with Not Having Fire Insurance

Fires remain to be one of the most common disasters businesses experience. They can also create devastating damage that can be hard to overcome without insurance.

Fire Insurance Protects a Business in Several Ways:

• It covers costs associated with smoke cleanup
• It covers repairs for the structural damages
• It covers repairs associated with fire suppression materials
• It may also cover any fees charged for fire-fighting services

How Do Businesses Recover From Fire?

Once a fire has occurred, many structures are inhabitable until fire restoration takes place. It is the job of the restoration company to assess the damage, take action to prevent further damage, and finally, restore the structure to its former state, which is hospitable to the work that takes place within the structure.

For businesses that have fire insurance in their policies, the cleanup and restoration can happen quite speedily due to the expenses being mostly covered through the insurance company. The insurance company and restoration company work together to ensure that business can resume as quickly as possible.

For a business without insurance, the recovery process can be more painful to the business, assuming it has the capital to make recovery possible. Unfortunately, for many businesses, this type of disaster is not in the short-term budget.

Nobody plans to experience disasters such as fires, they are unexpected and happen at the most inopportune times. Keeping an updated insurance policy, that includes fire insurance, will ensure business operations can continue despite the inconveniences of damage.

Have a Fire Action Plan

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

Once someone knows how to properly operate a fire extinguisher, they should then also be trained to follow fire safety protocol. Such training should enable anyone to be able to:

A fire action plan is crucial for any home or business in the event of a fire.  It can save lives.  Take the time to make sure that everyone is on the same page, and knows what the plan is when danger occurs.  This is especially important when children are involved.

• Alert others
• If you are at work, pull the fire alarm.
• If you are at home, make sure that others in the house are aware of the danger
• Call the fire department
• Assess the situation
• If the flame is small, you can attempt to put it out with a fire extinguisher. If the flame is large, or multiple areas are affected, get everyone out immediately. 
• Evacuate the building
• Plan an evacuation route in advance.  If this is for your home, you can put in on the fridge, so that kids see it often.
• Wait until the fire department clears you to go back inside

SERVPRO of University Place / Lakewood West is here to help with any fire damage that you may have at your home or business.  We pride ourselves on around-the-clock service and quick on-scene response time.  Give us a call at 253.896.3000 to learn more or get assistance.

How to Operate a Fire Extinguisher

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

Whether at home or at work, the occurrence of a fire is more common than you think. Similarly, a really great way to be prepared in both places is to have a fire extinguisher, and have the knowledge to use it. A commonly taught (and easy to remember) method is the P.A.S.S. method.  Each letter corresponds to an action that leads to proper use.

(P)ull the pin on the extinguisher. This will break the anti-tampering seal.

(A)im the nozzle of the hose.  You want to aim for the base of the flames.

(S)queeze the handle.

(S)weep the nozzle from side to side.  Hit all base areas of the fire.  If the flames are not extinguished, aim and squeeze again. 

In the event that a fire becomes too large, you need to call 911 to get immediate help.  Once a fire gets out of hand, safety is the only concern.  Get you and your family or coworkers out of the building as soon as possible.

An important thing to note is that fire extinguishers don't last forever. A good one will last between 5 and 15 years. Make sure to keep one that is safely within these ranges on hand.

SERVPRO of University Place / Lakewood West is here to help with any fire damage that you may have at your home or business.  We pride ourselves on around-the-clock service and quick on-scene response time.  Give us a call at 253.896.3000 to learn more or get assistance.

12 days of Christmas fire safety

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

With the lights around the Christmas tree twinkling, the candles burning bright, and the glow of the warm fireplace, your home is never quite as cozy as it is during Christmastime. It can feel downright magical this time of year. However, while your home may look prettier than ever during the holidays, those warm and fuzzy additions also bring an increased risk of fire to your humble abode. But with these expert-backed Christmas fire safety tips from former firefighters and other safety professionals, you can still make your home festive, while also keeping it safe this holiday season.

Don't use your oven for storage or heat.

Though many people place their cookie sheets and other bakeware in their ovens when they're not using them, it's never a good idea to use the appliance as storage space. Fire Department’s explicitly warns against it, noting that something flammable could accidentally be left behind and cause an oven fire.

Also, even when it gets extra cold this Christmas season, think twice before using your oven or stove as way to provide some extra heat to your home. Chuck Roydhouse, a retired professional firefighter, says that although this is not uncommon for people to do, ovens and stoves are not specifically set up for heating purposes, so it is unsafe to use them as such.

Water your Christmas tree if its real.

The quickest way to accidentally make your tree go up in flames. Let it go unwatered. Harry Knowles, home safety expert with My Handyman Services, warns homeowners with real Christmas trees to frequently check that their trees don't have "any tinder-dry areas." Just one spark anywhere near dry wood can start a fire in a mere 30 seconds, he says.

Don't throw wrapping paper in your fireplace.

It's easy to get caught up in the joy and excitement that comes with unwrapping new goodies on Christmas but be sure to monitor exactly where all that ripped wrapping paper is going—and definitely don't dispose of it by throwing it in the fireplace.

"On Christmas morning, don't make the mistake of throwing the wrapping paper from the gifts in the fireplace," says Roydhouse. "Wrapping paper creates way too much heat, and it's quite easy to have a chimney fire that way. It puts too much heat in the chimney, and if you have any combustibles in there, that heat will ignite it."

Follow the "rule of three" when it comes to power strips.

With Christmas lights, space heaters, and all the electronics of everyday life, there's a lot to be plugged in during the holiday season. And with electrical fires being a real concern, you need to follow the proper precautions. The experts at Mr. Electric, a residential electrical service throughout Canada and the U.S., recommend following the "rule of three" when it comes to power strips, meaning no more than three electronics should be plugged into a single strip at one time.

Never use an extension cord or power strip with your space heater.

When it comes to space heaters and extension cords, the two should never meet. "When you buy a space heater, it will come with a certain length of cord, and you never want to extend that by using an extension cord," says Roydhouse. "When you extend the cord length, you overload the cord, and it gets hot. As a result, it can burn through a rug or the insulation and set something on fire or create an electrical shock. And you never want to plug a space heater into any type of multi-socket power strip—you want to plug it directly into the wall."

Make sure your home is equipped with functioning smoke alarms.

Having a working smoke detector in your home can mean the difference between life or death when it comes to a holiday home fire. The experts at First Alert note that "smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home, inside every bedroom, and outside sleeping area." They also recommend you "test alarms every month and change batteries every six months."

Information provided by

17 Christmas Fire Safety Tips from Firefighters and Other Safety Experts (bestlifeonline.com)

mrelectric.com

Candle Safety

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

Fast Facts:

• 38% of home candle fires start in bedrooms and cause 35% of associated deaths. 
• More than 50% of all candle home fires start because the candle was too close to a a flammable item (I.E. mattresses, bedding, curtains, cabinetry, or furniture are ignited). 
• In 12% of home candle fires and in 25% of associated deaths and injuries, the household occupants were asleep when the fire occurred.
• Unsupervised children are involved in 20% of home candle fires. 
• Having a working smoke alarm reduces one’s chances of dying in a fire by nearly 50%.
• 11% of home fires are caused by falling asleep while a candle is lit
• 58% of home fires started when something flammable was too close to the lit candle
• 36% of home fires start in the bedroom

Preparedness Tips:

• Remember that lit candles are fire. Keep them at least 12 inches from anything that can burn, such as curtains, bedding, mattresses, paper, books, flammable decorations, clothing, and upholstered furniture.
• Never leave a room or go to sleep before blowing out all lit candles.
• Use candle holders that are sturdy and won’t tip over easily. Candle holders that are made from a material that cannot burn and are large enough to collect dripping wax would also be a good idea.
• Place candles where they cannot be reached or knocked over by pets or children.
• During an emergency, always use flashlights instead of candles as light sources.
• Never leave a child unattended in a room with a candle. Additionally, keep all matches and lighters out of reach of children.
• Keep all lit candles and any other open flames away from flammable liquids.

What Type of Smoke Alarm Do You Have?

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

We all know that having working smoke alarms installed in the proper locations is crucial for residential and workplace safety.  But not all alarms are the same.  One main difference that they have is how they are powered. And how they are powered dictates their maintenance schedule.  Learn more about the three types of smoke alarms below.

Conventional Batteries

These units use regular batteries that many other household items use.  This makes them easy to maintain, as changing the batteries is as easy as changing them in your TV remote.  These units will beep when batteries are low.  Even if you don't hear the beep, you should check these units monthly to ensure that they are in working order.

Long Life Batteries

These alarms are a great middle ground between cost and ease of use.  Once you buy them, all you need to do is place them in the correct location in your home or business.  The batteries in these units are designed to last ten years, at which point, you replace with a new unit.  Of course, faulty units can occur, so you need to regularly test these alarms as well.

Hardwired Alarms

These units are by far the easiest to maintain, but not everyone can use them.  They also require professional installation or someone with electrical knowledge.  These units are wired directly into a building electrical system, where they draw their power.  These units should come with a battery backup, to ensure that they still maintain properly if the power goes out, or is otherwise compromised.  

SERVPRO of Lakewood West / University Place is here to help with any fire damage that you may have at your home or business.  We pride ourselves on around-the-clock service and quick on-scene response time.  Give us a call at 253.896.3000 to learn more or get assistance.

Space Heater Fire Safety

7/10/2021 (Permalink)

In the colder months of the year, Washingtonians look for ways to make chilly areas warm and comfortable. While space heaters can be useful to keep small areas warm, it’s very important to use them with caution. Using a space heater can be safe if you follow these simple recommendations.

Heating

• Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• Supervise children when a fireplace, fire pit, or other space heater is being used. Use a sturdy, metal screen to prevent contact burns, which are even more common than flame burns.
• All heaters need space. Keep things that can burn, such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.
• Use heating equipment that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• Never use your oven for heating.
• Install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment, according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
• Install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms to avoid risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.

Portable electric space heaters

• Turn heaters off when you go to bed or leave the room.
• Use and purchase portable space heaters with an automatic shut off so if they’re tipped over they will shut off.
• Place space heater on solid, flat surface.
• Plug power cords directly into outlets and never into an extension cord.
• Inspect for cracked or damaged, broken plugs or loose connections. Replace before using.

Fuel burning space heaters

• Always use the proper fuel as specified by the manufacturer.
• When refueling, allow the appliance to cool and refuel outside or in a well-ventilated area.
• When using the heater, open a window to ensure proper ventilation.
• In portable kerosene or other liquid-fueled space heaters, always use the proper grade of the proper fuel.
• All new unvented gas-fired space heaters have an oxygen depletion sensor that detects a reduced level of oxygen in the area where the heater is operating and shuts off the heater before a hazardous level of carbon monoxide accumulates. If you have an older heater without this feature, replace it.
• If the pilot light of your gas heater goes out, allow 5 minutes or more for the gas to go away before trying again, do not allow gas to accumulate, and light the match before you turn on the gas to the pilot to avoid risk of flashback.
• If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not attempt to light the appliance. Turn off all the controls and open doors and window. 

SERVPRO of University Place is here to help you recover from any fire.  Our trained technicians will remove the smoke and soot from your home. Call us at (253) 896-3000 for any fire restoration needs!

Fire Evacuation Practice in Your Business

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

For those of you who own your own business, being aware of your potential risk is key—from both unpredictable natural or self-inflicted emergency situations. Commercial fires can be devastating for businesses, and tend to hit hardest for the ones that had no preparations in place.

Preparing for a fire at your business is something that involves many aspects, but our recommendation is always to start with safety first. Making sure you and your staff are able to quickly and calmly leave the building when the fire alarm sounds is the top priority, which is why we recommend starting with fire drills.

Starting Fire Safety With Workplace Evacuation Drills

Consult with your local fire officials. Researching your fire safety options online is a great way to gather information, but be sure to make use of your local resources as well. You can often work with your local fire department for them to visit and provide advice regarding what your options for fire safety improvements and evacuation routes are.

Communicate and mark fire evacuation routes. Once your evacuation routes have been determined, you should mark them clearly within the building and alert staff that a drill is forthcoming. By better preparing everyone in the building, you can be certain that the drill will go more smoothly.

Have fire drills frequently. Though taking time out of your day for a fire drill is not ideal, generally doing them once every few months is sufficient enough for everyone’s safety. Keep them on the schedule regularly enough so that everyone can remember the protocols, but not so often that they become mundane.

Run different fire scenarios. Fires can be extremely unpredictable, so it is wise to add some variance into your drills to better prepare for all possible scenarios. Fires can occur in many spots, so experiment with blocking off certain evacuation routes to reflect this and get your staff accustomed to using every possible exit point instead of just the one closest to them.

If your business has experienced fire damage, you can count on us. We specialize in commercial fire restoration and will be here for you at any hour—contact us today.

(253) 896-3000

Be Safe this Valentine's Day

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, we’re sharing some fire safety advice to help you stay safe and make it a day to remember for all the right reasons.

Candles

Not just on this holiday, it is always important to practice safe candle usage to avoid fires. Candles are supposed to give a romantic glow, not actual flames. Follow these tips when burning and extinguishing candles to stay safe.

• Never leave candles unattended. Put burning candles out when you leave the room and always remember to check that they are completely put out at night.
• Make sure candles are put out long before you go to sleep to avoid the danger of you accidentally knocking over a burning candle whilst asleep. Also, put candles out with a snuffer or spoon as sparks can fly if you blow them out.
• Once lit, don’t move any candles and don’t burn several candles close together as this could cause the flame to flare.
• Burn candles in a well-ventilated room, which is out of the way of draughts, vents or air currents. This will help to prevent rapid or uneven burning, soot and dripping.

Lastly, make sure that you know your escape plans in the event of a fire. 

We proudly serve University Place and surrounding areas. (253) 896 - 3000

Get back to business after a costly fire!

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

When your University Place/Lakewood West business suffers from a fire, every minute that your business is closed is lost money and lost clients. 

At SERVPRO University Place/Lakewood West, we understand the urgency to get your business back up and running.  We have a large dedicated team that will help you get back to business! 

Even if the fire didn't cause major structural damage, smoke and soot damage can be extreme, even if you can't see it. 

AT SERVPRO, we're experts in cleaning smoke damage as well as fire damage restoration.

Your facility will be inspected and cleaned, as well as restored! We use a variety of different methods to clean and deodorize everything!

Fire damage is more than what has been burned 

• Ash and smoke can cause corrosion and damage to other materials 
• Smoke odors can be very unpleasant if left untreated 
• Smoke causes etching in glass, as well as discoloration to walls, equipment and other surfaces 

Although each fire is not the same, the restoration process is typically the same because it is proven to help us as well as you!

• Inspecting the damage
• Identify the source of the fire
• Identify any additional water damage that was caused by firefighting efforts
• Remediate the water damage
• Remove contents from the area or building

Call our professionals SERVPRO University Place /Lakewood West at (253) 564-1494.

Cleaning Your Chimney Yourself

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Burning fires in a chimney leads to the accumulation of soot and creosote, a flammable, sticky substance that can cause chimney fires if it’s not removed. Hiring a professional chimney sweep can get expensive, so if you use your fireplace frequently, consider picking up a few tools from the hardware store and cleaning your chimney yourself. This article provides instructions on three different methods for cleaning a chimney, as well as tips on chimney cleaning safely.

1. Determine whether the chimney needs to be cleaned. If you only clean your chimney once a year, do it in the Fall before the burning season begins. Otherwise, you risk sparking a chimney fire the first time you light up your fireplace in the Winter
2. Check the chimney for animals. Shine a flashlight up the chimney from the fireplace, and if you find an animal remove it
3. Measure your chimney flue. You have to have properly sized tools to clean the chimney properly
4. Buy chimney cleaning supplies such as a wire brush, rope, plastic tarp or drop cloth, broom, dustpan, mask, goggles and ladder
5. Dress in appropriate clothing. You should wear old clothes that you don’t mind getting messy with soot. Cover your hair and make sure you wear a mask and googles
6. Prepare your house for the cleaning. Drape a drop cloth around the fireplace and move back furniture and rugs
7. Remove the damper from the chimney flue
8. Start the cleaning process

SERVPRO of University Place / Lakewood West is here to help with all your fire restoration needs. 

253-564-1494

Our Fire Restoration Process

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

If your home in has experienced a fire, then you may need to contact your local fire restoration service company, SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West, to help with the repairs. The knowledgeable professionals at SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West have the tools and knowledge necessary to restore your home back to pre-fire condition. During this process there are a few things you can expect to see.

1. Assessment of the Damage

One of the first steps you will see our restoration technicians perform is the assessment of the affected area. Our certified professionals will look for fire, soot and smoke damage, as well as any water damage that may have occurred with the fire suppression efforts. Knowing the damage types will allow them to formulate a plan for restoration.

2. The Repair Process

During the fire restoration process, you can expect our technicians to start with damage cleaning, followed by any structural repairs that need to be made. It's also a good idea to talk with our restoration technicians about any mitigation steps you can take at this time as well.

3. Restoration of the Space

Our technicians are trained to have the ability to return your home back to pre-fire condition. You can expect this to take a little time, but you can also expect to find that any smoke, fire, or soot damage has been completely removed. We will also be able to replace the damaged interior. At the end of this process you should be able to find that your home looks as though the fire never occurred.

If your home suffers from a fire, call the professionals at SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West. (253) 896.3000

Cooking Fire Prevention

4/26/2020 (Permalink)

Cooking of all kinds are the number one cause of home fires in America.  Here at SERVPRO, we are all about safety and serving our customers, so we are going to go over some fire prevention tips! According to the National Fire Protection Association, some important things you can do to help ensure you are cooking safely are:

1) Be alert! If you have consumed alcohol or are feeling overly sleepy, it may be unsafe to cook, and you may be unable to prevent or catch a fire while you can

2) Stay in the kitchen while you are cooking! Staying in the kitchen allows you to monitor your cooking and adjust as needed, helping to prevent fires.  If you are grilling or cooking outside, staying outside with your cooking can be essential in preventing a fire outside too!

3) If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.  Avoiding overcooking or forgetting about food can be essential in preventing fires!

4) Keep anything that may catch fire - oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains - away from your stovetop. Non-cooking materials catching fire is a very dangerous, yet very common start for many kitchen fires. 

Now that you're set to cook safely, what do you do if you find a cook fire in your home?

According to the National Fire Protection Association, you should - 

1) Get out! When you do, make sure that everyone else is as well, and shut the door behind you in order to help contain the fire

2) Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency services as soon as you are out and in a safe place away from the flames

3) If you do decide to attempt to fight the fire, be sure that others are out and clear, and that you have a free and unobstructed path away to safety

4) Keep a lid nearby when cooking in order to smother grease fires. If a grease fire breaks out, do not throw water on it!! Slide the lid over the pan, turn the burner off, and leave the lid on the pan until it has completely cooled

5) If an oven fire breaks out, turn the oven off and keep the door closed, dio not open it to attempt to fight the fire

For more information on cooking fires, and any other fire questions you may have, visit https://www.nfpa.org/ . And remember, if you ever have a fire in your home or business, call (253)-896-300 to make it "Like it never even happened."

Dont get to fired up this Thanksgiving.

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving is just two days away (did you take out the turkey?) and I bet your ready to fry up that turkey! Doing it wrong could mean disaster and ruin your tasty diner. I have some helpful tips to ensure your turkey and home don’t end up in flames!

Safety first make sure you always have a fire extinguisher handy just in case and never leave the bird unattended.

 Always make sure your frying space is no less than 10 feet from your home or other structures. Also ensure that your area is flat and there is no risk of knocking over the fryer.

Next, make sure your bird is fully thawed and dried off, extra moisture can cause the oil to bubble over and cause a fire.

If you find yourself in an unsightly situation this Thanksgiving, just know your friendly SERVPRO is here to help.

Staying Safe - Smoke Alarms

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives. Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. If there is a fire in your home, smoke spreads fast and you need smoke alarms to give you time to get out. 

Here's what you need to know!

• A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. 
• Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound. 
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
• When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside.
• Replace all smoke alarms in your home every 10 years.
• More about installation and maintenance of home smoke alarms.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (253) 896-3000

Thanksgiving Fire Safety

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know that Thanksgiving is the busiest day of the year for fire departments when it comes to home fires involving cooking equipment? With more home cooks cooking larger meals than they are probably used to, the number of home fires involving cooking equipment spikes to nearly 4 times the daily average on Thanksgiving! Whether you plan to be in charge of the kitchen or are just helping out, be sure to follow these important safety tips when preparing this year's Thanksgiving feast!

• Start your Thanksgiving with a clean stove and oven! The weekend before Thanksgiving, remove any food or grease buildup from burners, stovetops, and the oven. 
• Always stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop. While items in the oven may not require as attentive an eye, food on the stovetop should have constant monitoring in case of spillage or splatter. 
• Stay in the home while cooking the turkey. You don't need to set up camp and keep a constant eye on the turkey once it's in the oven, but you should stay inside and check on it frequently. The last thing you want is a burnt turkey that sets your kitchen on fire!
• Keep a flame-resistant oven mitt, potholder, or lid near your cooking space so that you can smother any flames before they get out of control.
• Should an oven fire occur, turn off the heat and keep the door closed. This should allow the fire to burn out on its own. Once the fire has gone out, open your windows before carefully opening the oven door to release the smoke. IF THE FIRE DOES NOT GO OUT ON ITS OWN: LEAVE THE HOUSE AND CALL 911. 
• Make sure your home has working smoke alarms and that your family knows the fire escape route in the event of a fire. Remember to always plan TWO WAYS OUT of every room. 
• Avoid using turkey fryers, but if you must, make sure to follow the fryer's instructions. Also be sure to completely thaw the turkey before frying and always fry outside at a safe distance from the home. 

Stay safe this holiday season! Should your home experience any fire damage, be sure to call SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West to make that fire "Like it never even happened".

Summer Safety!

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Each summer, family and friends across the country enjoy the summer months with barbecues, camping trips, or by cooling off in a pool or lake. In order to enjoy these occasions, it is important to keep safety top of mind to help ensure you have fun in the sun.

According to the United States Fire Administration, nearly 8,600 Americans are injured by fireworks and almost 5,000 are injured by grill fires, annually. A grill should always be supervised when in use. Keep children and pets a safe distance from the grilling area to prevent accidental burns or tipping of the grill.

If you enjoy lounging by the pool or going for a boat ride to cool off from the summer sun, make sure you exercise caution, especially when children are present. Only swim in approved areas and always supervise children when near the water.

Summer is a time to make memories and enjoy the great outdoors. The following tips, provided by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), will help keep you safe all summer long.

• When using a charcoal grill, only use starter fluids designed for grills; do not add fluid after coals have been lit.
• When using a gas grill, ensure the hose connection is tight; check hoses for leaks.
• Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD (personal flotation device) when boating, jet-skiing, tubing or water-skiing. Air-filled swimming aids, like water wings or inner tubes, are not substitutes for approved PFDs. An adult should always supervise children using these devices.
• When camping, always use a flame-retardant tent and set up camp far away from the campfire. Only use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns inside the tent, not liquid-filled heaters or lanterns.
• Always build a campfire down wind from the tent area. Clear vegetation and dig a pit before building your campfire. Always extinguish the fire before going to sleep or leaving the campsite. To extinguish, cover the dirt or pour water over the fire.

SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West wishes you a safe and happy summer!

Grilling Safety 2019!

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know that 10,200 home fires are started by grills each year, on average? Did you know that July is the peak month for grill fires followed by June, May and August? 

We all love barbecuing. It's a summertime staple! Follow the following tips to prevent you and your family from being one of the statistics above:

<<SAFETY TIPS>>

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors. 
• The grill should be places well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area. 
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and trays below the grill.
• NEVER leave your grill unattended. 
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it. 

<<CHARCOAL GRILLS>>

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as fuel.
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire. 
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources. 
• There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to an extension cord for outdoor use. 
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container. 

<<PROPANE GRILLS>>

Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off both the gas tank and the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department. If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill. If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least 5 minutes before re-lighting it. 

Source: nfpa.org/education

Summertime Safety Tips

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

SUMMER IS HERE! Keep these tips in mind as you and your family enjoy summer vacations, camping, family reunions, picnics and the Fourth of July.

1. Build campfires at least 25 feet away from tents, shrubs and anything that can burn.
2. If you want to see fireworks, go to a public show put on by experts. Sparklers can reach 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and cause third-degree burns.
3. Use chimineas, outdoor fireplaces, and fire pits outdoors only and at least 10 feet away from your home or anything that can burn.
4. Use propane, charcoal and wood pellet barbecue grills outdoors only. Indoor use can cause a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Place your grill well away from siding and deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. Do not store or use a grill on a porch or balcony.

When fire damage takes control of your life, SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West will help you take it back. Call us at 253-896-3000 for your fire damage needs.

Fire and Smoke Damage DOs and DON’Ts

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

A home or business fire is stressful and inconvenient for all who are involved. As a homeowner or business owner, knowing what to do in the case of a fire may be foreign to you. These emergency tips will assist you in taking proper actions until SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West arrives. Please follow these DOs and DON'Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chance of a successful restoration.

DO

• Limit movement in the home or business to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and  turbs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures
• Wash both sides of leaves on house plants
• Chance HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to sstop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system

DON'T

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Tacoma
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Tacoma
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Consume any food or beverage that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water (they may be contaminated)
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

When fire damage takes control of your life, SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West will help you take it back. Call us at 253-896-3000 for your fire damage needs.

Smoke Alarm Safety

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) reports nearly two-thirds of these fire-related deaths occurred in homes with no working smoke alarm or no smoke alarms present at all. Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when they are properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.

The NFPA recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house.

Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

Once smoke alarms are in place, it is important to maintain and regularly test the alarms to ensure they are in the proper working order. Review the tips provided here regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance.

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A preparedness plan allows your family, employees, or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation. For tips or information on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West at 253-896-3000.

Smoke Alarm Tips:

• Install smoke alarms inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.
• Test smoke detectors at least once a month using the test button
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm “chirps,” warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

6/14/2018 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 253-896-3000

Smoke Alarm Safety

6/7/2018 (Permalink)

We all know that annoying beep that the smoke alarm makes when its battery is about to die. This helpful sign may be annoying but what if you needed your alarm and it was dead. The National Fire Protection Association says that dead batteries caused 24% of smoke alarm failures. Keeping a routine of inspection of such devices is so important.

Here’s what you should know about smoke alarms:

• Larger homes may need extra smoke alarms
• Test your smoke alarms at least once per month
• Smoke alarms should be interconnected so when one sounds they all sound
• Replace all smoke alarms in your home every 10 years

Smoke alarms save lives, the only way they can do their job is if you do yours by making sure they are working properly. In unfortunate event you do have a fire in your home SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West is always available to help with fire and smoke damage call us at 253-896-3000.

Protect your kids from fires and burns

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

From a hot cup of coffee to boiling water on the stove, burns are a huge hazard in every home.  Burns are the most (especially hot water and liquids) are the most common accidents related to kids.  Here are a few ways to help avoid burn related accidents.

• Always use the back burner on your stove when possible.
• Keep an emergency aid kit close at hand in your home.
• Install a fire extinguisher in your kitchen.
• Keep matches, lighters, candles and chemicals put away out of reach.
• Put child safety plugs in your outlets.

For more information on childproofing your home check out these sites:

www.kidshealth.org (Burn Safety)

www.nsc.org (Emergency Fire Preparedness)

Your child's safety is important to us here at SERVPRO.  In the event of a fire or smoke damage keep in mind SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West is here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. (253) 896-3000

BBQ Safety

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

That time is here school is out, the sun is bright, and we are ready to be outside! After a long winter cooped up in your house, your ready to bust out the BBQ and have your friends and family over! Some don’t realize when hosting these events your increasing your chances of a housefire.

Here is a list of helpful hints to keep you and your guests safe this summer:

• Make sure your grill is at least 3 feet away from other objects including your house, trees, fences, and outdoor furniture.
• Remember starter fluid should only be used in charcoal grills not gas grills.
• If you think your gas grill could have a leak, turn it off and fix it before use again.
• Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the grill.

For more information check out these websites:

http://www.mbhinsurance.com/grilling-safety-reminders-for-your-summer-bbq/

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Seasonal-fires/Outdoor-entertaining

If your summer event doesn’t turn out as planned, SERVPRO of Tacoma is here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We pride ourselves in being on site within 4 hours of our first notice of the loss. For your fire restoration needs, contact us at 253-896-3000.

Fire Damage in Your Home

5/12/2017 (Permalink)

Fire damage in your home can be a stressful event. Damage to your personal belongings and home are just some of the concerns you may experience. Timely response and thorough mitigation can alleviate these concerns. The first 24 hours can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. Our 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. 

We provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claim inventory and document restoration. These services help ensure your property, belongings and memories are restored to preloss condition when possible.

What you can do until help arrives:

Do

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring


• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery


• Coat chrome faucets, trim and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil


• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet

Don't

• Wash any walls or painted surfaces


• Shampoo carpets or upholstery


• Clean any electrical equipment


• Send clothing to dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor

SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West understands your home is more than four walls. Your home includes your memories and personal belongings. We are trained in caring for both you and your home. By responding quickly with a full line of fire cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West can help you restore your home and personal belongings.

Before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West, the fire damage cleanup and restoration professionals at 253-896-3000.

Safety Tips for Using a Turkey Fryer

11/14/2016 (Permalink)

As delicious as a fried turkey may be, the method of cooking can be very dangerous. Using a turkey fryer should be avoided at all costs. There are many concerns surrounding a turkey fryer including burns and fire hazard. If you choose to use a turkey fryer during the holidays, Allstate Insurance has compiled a list of cooking tips when using a fryer. 

• Keep fryer in full view while burner is on.
• Place fryer in an open area away from all walls, fences, or other structures.
• Never use in, on, or under a garage, breezeway, carport, porch, or any structure that can catch fire.
• Raise and lower food slowly to reduce splatter and avoid burns.
• Cover bare skin when adding or removing food.
• Check the oil temperature frequently.
• If oil begins to smoke, immediately turn gas supply off.
• If a fire occurs, immediately call 911. Do not attempt to extinguish fire with water.

In the event of a fire, call SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West for your fire restoration needs. We are available 24/7, 7 days a week. 253-896-3000.

https://www.allstate.com/resources/allstate/attachments/tools-and-resources/pz-holiday-cooking-safety-tips-nov-2013.pdf

Holiday Fire Safety

11/14/2016 (Permalink)

During the holiday season, it's easy to get distracted while in the kitchen. It's important to keep safety your first priority. Allstate Insurance and Liberty Mutual Insurance has compiled a list of safety tips to follow during this holiday season.

• Stay in the kitchen while food is cooking. Most fires in the kitchen occur because food is left unattended.
• Keep the cooking range free of clutter such as oven mitts, food packaging, and decorations. Even though you have myriad dishes to prepare, don't overload a cook top with too many pots and pans. Trying to cook all your dishes at once could cause grease to accidentally spill onto a range top and cause a fire.
• Grease can ignite quickly, so be sure to wipe the stove top and oven before cooking to remove previous grease spills or splatters.
• Never throw water on a grease fire, it's best to smother the fire by pl;acing a lid on the pan.
• Always keep a potholder, oven mitt and lid handy while cooking. If a small fire starts in a pan on the stove, put on a flame-resistant oven mitt and smother the flames by carefully sliding the lid over the pan. Turn off the burner. Don't remove the lid until the food has cooled.
• When removing lids on hot pans, tilt them away from you to protect your face and hands from steam. If there is an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed to prevent flames from burning you or your clothing.
• Never wear loose fitting clothing when cooking. Long, open sleeves could ignite and catch fire from a gas flame or a hot burner. Wear short, close fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking. If you have long hair, be sure to tie it back.
• Keep smoke alarms connected while cooking. Smoke alarms can save lives. Make sure smoke alarms are installed and working.
• Unplug small appliances that aren't in use. Not only will you save the energy, but you will also avoid the potential dangers if they were to be turned on accidentally.
• Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen in case of emergency and know how to use it. Make sure the fire extinguisher is UL listed and rated for grease and electrical fires.
• Never put a glass casserole dish or lid on the stove burner; if it gets too hot it could crack or shatter.
• Establish a "kid free" zone of 3 feet around the stove and use the back burner first.
• Never hold a child on your hip while cooking as it greatly increases the likelihood for burns.
• Turkey fryers should be avoided, as they can be extremely dangerous.

If you have fire damage, call SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West for your fire restoration needs. 253-896-3000

https://www.allstate.com/resources/allstate/attachments/tools-and-resources/pz-holiday-cooking-safety-tips-nov-2013.pdf

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/342203271656096941/

Fire and Smoke Damage DOs and DON'Ts

11/4/2016 (Permalink)

A home or business fire is stressful and inconvenient for all who are involved. As a homeowner or business owner, knowing what to do in the case of a fire may be foreign to you. These emergency tips will assist you in taking proper actions until SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West arrives. Please follow these DOs and DON'Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chance of a successful restoration.

DO

• Limit movement in the home or business to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and  turbs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures
• Wash both sides of leaves on house plants
• Chance HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to sstop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system

DON'T

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Consume any food or beverage that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water (they may be contaminated)
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

When fire damage takes control of your life, SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West will help you take it back. Call us at 253-896-3000 for your fire damage needs.

Prevent Your Home From Fires This Halloween

10/10/2016 (Permalink)

Halloween is a time for tricks and treats, but it's also a time to be cautious about fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), decorations are the first thing to ignite in more than 1,000 reported home fires each year. Here are a few things you can do this Halloween to prevent fires in your home from NFPA and the American Red Cross.

• Dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations well away from all open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters. 
• It is safest to use a flashlight or battery-operated candle in a jack-o-lantern, use long, fireplace-style matches or a utility lighter. Be sure to place lit pumpkins well away from anything that can burn and far enough out of the way of trick-or-treaters, doorsteps, walkways, and yards. 
• Remember to keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes.
• Use flashlights as alternatives to candles or torch lights when decorating walkways and yards. They are much safer for trick-or-treaters, whose costumes may brush against the lighting.
• When using a real candle to light your jack-o-lantern, make sure the candle gets blown out when you can't monitor it, especially when you leave your home.
• Always remember to turn off any running electric appliances before you leave home, blow out candles, and unplug fire hazards, such as lights, that might get too hot.

https://www.army.mil/e2/c/downloads/328439.pdf

http://redcrosschat.org/2015/11/04/hidden-dangers-halloween-decorations/

In the event of a fire, contact SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood West for your fire damage needs. We can be reached 24/7 at 253-896-3000.

University Place/Lakewood Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/30/2016 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 253-896-3000