If a fire starts in your home, make sure you already have a plan!

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

If a fire starts in your home you may have as little as two minutes to escape, according to the American Red Cross. A fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly, along with an early warning from a working smoke alarm can save lives. For more information on protecting your family and home check Red Cross Fire Tips

Very few circumstances can be more traumatic and stressful than the aftermath of fire damage in your home or business. 

Beyond smoke and soot damage; the structure will be soaked with water.  The brave firefighters may also need to cut holes in roofs, knock down doors, and break windows to ensure the fire is extinguished.  SERVPRO® of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333 has the experienced restoration professionals to mitigate the damage and restore your home or business to preloss condition.

If your home is damaged by fire, don't wait, call professional emergency service right away. Call SERVPRO® of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333.

If you need to remove odors from your home or business, you can hire professionals in SERVPRO® of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333.

They can help you identify the source and eliminate the problem. Many odors can be removed without a trace. Home deodorization can also include pet odors, spill odors and other foul smells. Oxidization is just one of many ways specialist might remove offensive smells. Sometimes special equipment and treatments are necessary to clean air ducts, carpets, upholstery and hard surfaces.

SERVPRO® East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Contact SERVPRO® of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333

What to do when you have fire damage

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Fires unfortunately happen everyday in homes and buildings across the country, but we’re fortunate to have firefighters available to respond to these crises wherever they arise to prevent catastrophe. However, when the fire trucks leave the scene, many people are left with extensive, costly damage to their properties. The truth is, the aftermath of a house fire is often just as difficult to navigate as the fires themselves. Fire and water damage can ravage a home, so if you’re wanting to repair your home and return it to its condition before the fire, these are the steps you should follow.

The SERVPRO fire damage restoration process

The first step you should take is to make a call. There are professionals who specialize in restoration of homes which have been through considerable damage. Call us at 941-747-2333 and explain to us the details of the fire which caused damage. From there you can begin your restoration process.

The second step you will be taking involves inspection. This will be carried out by the SERVPRO restoration service, as it is necessary for them to examine the site of the fire and any nearby rooms in order to assess the extent of the damage. This forms the basis of a plan to restore the home. 

The third step requires for windows and walls to be boarded up, as well as covering the roof with tarps. This protects those areas from any additional damage they may be subject to.

Step four is when water damage is addressed. Your restoration service will take this chance to remove water remaining in the house, and make use of dehumidifiers in order to dry it out. 

The next two steps involve cleaning, with step five targeting smoke and soot which soil walls and furniture, and step six entailing surfaces and items with fire damage being sanitized and disinfected. 

The final step of this process is restoration. Restoration varies depending on the home, as some homes require massive repairs such as reconstruction of entire rooms, while others require minor repairs like replacing flooring. This can be discussed with the SERVPRO professionals who come to your home.

Connect with us at 941-747-2333.

What do you do after a fire?

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

House fires can often be difficult, potentially devastating events for any family on both a financial and emotional level. After such an emotional event, it can be difficult to know the next steps to take. If you ever find yourself in this difficult situation, having these concerns in mind can steer you in the right direction.

Pressing Concerns

First, consider if your safety is threatened by staying in the house. From there, be sure that any activities you undertake won’t put your safety at risk. Take precaution to avoid electrical hazards and potentially dangerous falls, as well as making sure to be careful with wet materials, as these can be surprisingly heavy.

These are just a handful of the actions you need to take after a fire. The most important decision is to call a SERVPRO professional who will make sure everything is done efficiently. Call 941-747-2333 now.

Actions to Take Following a Fire

After a fire, there are a number of measures you should take to limit fire damage. First you should do your best to keep your space clean, by using petroleum jelly or oil to clean and protect chrome, cleaning houseplants (making sure to get both sides of their leaves), avoiding excessive movement while in your home to prevent spreading soot, and washing your hands to prevent getting furniture and walls dirty. With this done, your next moves should entail changing your HVAC filter, covering carpets and furniture with towels or linens, covering air registers with cheesecloth, and finally, emptying and opening your fridge and freezer while the electricity is turned off. 

Actions to Avoid Following a Fire

Some actions following a fire may leave you worse off, rather than helping you. One crucial mistake to avoid is not seeking help from the right professionals. Cleaning electrical appliances  which have been exposed to fire, heat, or water should be done by a repair service. Cleaning walls, carpet, or furniture should be left to a restoration service like SERVPRO. Connect with us at 941-747-2333.

Even clothing needs to be cared for carefully, as sending your clothes to a regular dry cleaner, may cause the smoke stench to stay. Aside from taking on actions which require professional help, it is also important to avoid ingesting packaged food or beverages which were stored near fire, heat, or water, as well as turning on ceiling fixtures with a wet ceiling. 

Fire Damage Repair Near Bradenton, Fl

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Nobody ever plans to have their home or business damaged by fire, but sometimes luck just isn’t on our side and we face this exact problem. When this happens, it can be stressful and traumatic. Not only does the fire burn through your property, but it also leaves behind nasty soot. And once the firefighters come and douse the fire, they leave copious amounts of water behind! If not treated carefully, you can start to see mold popping up after a fire has been doused.

So what happens during a fire? You have burned flooring and furniture, soot everywhere, widespread property damage from firefighters knocking down doors and breaking windows, and water damage. It’s a tall bill!

The SERVPRO Perspective

SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch has experienced restoration professionals to mitigate the damage and restore your home or business to preloss condition. 

We’ll treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care. If you suffer a fire damage event, please refer to our Fire Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.  

Our highly trained fire damage specialists work with specialized equipment to bring your property back to a pre-fire condition. These men and women are trained in our “restorative” mentality. This means that they value restoring your items before suggesting replacement. In turn, this saves you money and makes returning to your normal life a lot less of a headache.

Ready for fire damage repair on your home or business? Call us at (941) 747-2333.

How we do fire damage repair

While every fire damage issue is a little bit unique, our nationally-recognized fire damage repair process provides us with a great foundation to help you. First, you connect with us and our representative collects any information which you have regarding the fire. Next, a fire damage specialist is sent to your location to examine your property for all fire, smoke, and soot damage. To protect against further damage to the property, we also board up missing windows and walls. If necessary, a tarp will also be placed on the roof if damage is present.

Steps four through seven all vary from property to property. You can learn more about exactly what we do in this article. Still, SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch is always prioritizing your needs. Give us a call at (941) 747-2333.

Tackle Fire Damage with SERVPRO

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire.

Fire damage is no joke! The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) reports that heating is responsible for the majority of U.S. home fires, deaths, and injuries. In fact, December, January, and February are the peak months for heating fires! This makes it extremely important to keep professionals in contact.

SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood has the training and expertise to help make any fire damage look “Like it never even happened.”

Give us a call on our 24-Hour line at (941) 747-2333.

Why Call SERVPRO for Fire Damage

Fires in Manatee Country are more common than people assume. While most home and business owners will be glad to hear that they are unlikely to experience smoke or fire damage, this is not a guarantee. Far from it! In fact, Manatee County experiences a little over two fires a day.

Backed by a national system of over 1,700 franchises, SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch can get you the resources you need quickly before a single fire destroys everything you’ve worked hard for.

In addition, we work with your insurance to address any issues and help bring costs down for you. For a stress free claims process on your fire damage, call SERVPRO for details at (941) 747-2333.

Fire Damage Tips

To minimize the chances of fire damage, we have brought together some ideas which can help you.

1. Keep objects away from heaters and fireplaces! Flammable objects like papers and beauty products should stay at least three-feet away from heating equipment.
2. Set up a carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas. Since it can be produced by a number of fuel-burning devices, it's important to have carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home. This will ensure every person in the home can hear and be alerted to the emergency.
3. Clean your appliances regularly! Big or small, kitchen appliances ought to be kept in good repair. Grease buildup is a major problem for interior oven walls, your stovetop, and even your exhaust hood. All of these can trigger fires.

Ready to tackle storm damage? Call us at (941) 747-2333.

What To Do After a Fire

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire breaks out in your home, you might feel lost and unsure how to proceed. It can be extremely overwhelming to deal with post-fire damage. Insurance companies, fire departments, city inspectors, mitigation specialists, and contractors will probably all be involved in the process. All of this can leave you feeling a little lost. 

However, if a fire does occur in your home, it is important to handle the situation carefully and correctly in order to protect you and your family, your possessions, and your home itself. Here are some things to keep in mind if you find yourself dealing with a house fire: 

Do Not Enter Your Home After a Fire

Until the fire inspectors have given you permission to reenter your home, do not go inside the building. The structure of your home could be comprised, and the fire department will need to make sure it is safe for you to reenter. Even if the fire department has deemed your home safe to reenter, you might need to also get permission from your insurance company. Sometimes your insurance claim could be impacted or even denied if you reenter before they have cleared you to do so. 

Once you are cleared to reenter the building, keep in mind that soot is extremely irritating to airways and eyes. You should wear protective gear when you step inside the burnt structure. And finally, do not turn on any source of electric, gas, or water until inspectors and the fire department tell you it is okay to do so. 

Contact Your Insurance Agent

Regardless of the size of your house fire, it is important to contact your insurance agent as soon as possible. Obviously, you will want to start repairs right away, but your insurance agent will need to be notified before you can begin those repairs. In addition, your insurance agent can help you with the financial ramifications of your house fire. Some policies offer funds to help cover alternative housing, day-to-day expenses, and replacement of personal items due to a fire. 

Secure a Place to Stay

After a fire, you will need to find a place to stay. If the damage is minor, you might only need a place for a short amount of time. However, if your home is destroyed or sustained extensive damage, you will need to secure long-term housing for you and your family while you work with your insurance agent, inspectors, and contractors to determine the best course of action. 

Review Your Possessions

If you did not sustain a total loss from the fire, you might still have possessions inside the home that are undamaged. Once you are cleared to re-enter the structure, you should plan to remove those items right away to avoid becoming the target of looters. Creating a catalog of your home’s contents with pictures of items prior to or after the fire will help with your insurance claim process. If possible, gather receipts or write down the make, model, and serial numbers of larger items such as appliances or electronics. These records will help make your claim process much smoother. 

Fire Damage Restoration

Experiencing a house fire is stressful. Here at SERVPRO, we want to help alleviate a little of that stress for you. Once you have called your insurance agent, make sure your next call is to SERVPRO of West Bradenton/Anna Maria at (941) 792-7715. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience needed to restore your home due to fire and smoke damage. Throughout the process, we will treat your family and property with care, respect, and empathy.

4 Ways to Avoid a Kitchen Fire

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Appliances are necessary components of a properly functioning, usable kitchen. We need them to be able to cook and prepare food properly. As with any electrical or gas source, proper care must be taken with these elements in order to prevent a kitchen fire from breaking out.   Here are four key steps you can take to prevent a kitchen fire in your own home:   Clean Your Appliances Regularly  ?Keeping your kitchen appliances, big and small, clean and in good repair is essential to preventing a kitchen fire. Remove grease buildup from your cooktop, interior oven walls, and exhaust hood (along with its filter). Make sure to empty the crumbs from your toaster on a consistent basis. Replace appliances with frayed cords. If your appliance is not working the way it should be, have it repaired by a certified appliance repair company.   Keep Towels Away from the Cooktop ?Fabrics of any sort are fire risks if stored or even placed for a moment too close to the cooktop. Do not leave kitchen towels, pot holders, dish rags, or paper towels beside the cooktop. Even your apron can be flammable. Make sure that when you remove it, you place it far away from the cooktop. If a burner is left on accidently or a towel is left too close to a pan while cooking, these fabrics can quickly ignite and cause a kitchen fire. ? Do Not Put Metal in the Microwave?You probably know not to put metal into a microwave. However, knowing can be easier said than done. When you are hurrying to get food warmed up or are on the phone and distracted while trying to get dinner on the table, these are the times that you might forget to remove a foil cover or the metal serving spoon before putting a dish in the microwave. In addition, the takeout containers that contain aluminum might easily slip by and get placed in the microwave. All of these are fire hazards! Always double check what you are putting in the microwave before you turn it on.? Be Careful with Grease?Too much grease in a pan can be extremely dangerous due to grease splattering all over your heat source along with the potential to ignite a grease fire. To avoid this, try to minimize the amount of oil or grease in your pan. Never leave a cooking pan unattended. While this is true for any form of cooking, it is particularly important if you have oil or grease in your pan. If the oil catches fire, you need to react quickly to suffocate the grease fire with a metal lid, baking soda, or salt. ? Fire Damage Restoration Regardless of how careful you are, accidents can still happen. If you’ve experienced a kitchen fire or fire of any sort in your home, reach out to us here at SERVPRO. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. Throughout the process, we will treat your family and property with care, respect, and empathy. 

Fire Extinguisher Safety And Knowing PASS

5/27/2021 (Permalink)

Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher is important. There are cases when you might need to get out of the building quickly and let the professionals handle it. If the fire is taller than you, then you should not try to put out the fire yourself. According to FEMA. Fires grow quickly, doubling by the minute. This leaves very little time to try to figure out how to use a fire extinguisher. If circumstances allow, how do you use it effectively?

PASS: The 4 Steps in Using a Fire Extinguisher

PULL - Pull the pin to break the safety tamper seal.

AIM - Aim low towards the base of the fire.

SQUEEZE - Squeeze handle to discharge.

SWEEP - Sweep the trajectory side to side at the base of the fire.

It is also important to know what type of fire extinguisher you are using to effectively knock the fire down.

According to the NFPA there are four common types of Fire Extinguishers:

Class A: This type of fire extinguishers are good for fires that have started from wood, paper and other type of ordinary combustible items.

Class B: This type of fire extinguisher is designed to be used on grease, oil, gasoline and other flammable fluids.

Class C: This type of fire extinguisher is designed to be used on fires from electricity.

Class D: This extinguisher class is the best for flammable metals.

There is also the Class K fire extinguisher which is designed for commercial kitchens.

Whether you are able to put the fire out or you call the professionals, there is a mess to clean up. This is the time to call the restoration professionals.

SERVPRO East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch 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.

Call Us Today – SERVPRO East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

SERVPRO East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

24-Hour Emergency Service

Faster to Any-Sized Disaster

Highly Trained Restoration Technicians A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry

Locally Owned and Operated

Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Hundreds Of Millions Of Dollars Are Paid Out Because Of Kitchen Fires

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Do you have a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen?

The kitchen is often the hub of the home where family and friends will gather and spend quality time while meals are prepared. The kitchen is also an area where fire can likely occur. The leading cause of these kitchen fires is unattended cooking.

State Farm, in one year, paid out over $130 million in homeowners insurance claims related to fires caused by grease and other cooking-related causes.

Staying Safe in the Kitchen

Staying in the kitchen while cooking is just one of fire safety tips you should be following. Here are some other helpful tips to observe while cooking:

1. What type of clothing are you wearing? Does your outfit have long, flowing sleeves or is it loose-fitting? It could catch on fire if you aren’t careful while cooking over the stove. It’s best to wear short or close-fitted sleeve shirts and make sure any baggy shirts are tucked in or tied back.

2. What type of items are near the stovetop? Make sure you don’t have kitchen towels, oven mitts, appliance cords or even curtains too close to the stovetop when cooking. Ideally, anything flammable will be moved away from it.

3. Do you have a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen? We hope that there is at least one fire extinguisher located in your home, ideally one that is near your kitchen. Make sure you know how to properly use the extinguisher, just in case it is ever needed.

4. How are you disposing of hot grease? While the grease may not be on fire, it could be hot enough to cause something in the trash to burn. You should let the grease cool a bit and then dispose of it in an old coffee can. Also, know the smoke points of the oils you cook with. Be sure to never subject a low-smoke point oil to high heat when cooking, as it could catch fire.

5. Do you have an established fire escape plan? Thinking about the worst-case scenario is never fun, but it’s better to be prepared rather than unprepared if an emergency were to occur. Go over exit routes and designated meeting points with your family, making sure that everyone knows what to do.

After The Fire

SERVPRO of East Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Fire safety in the kitchen is an absolute necessity, as it can help prevent dangerous and destructive cooking fires. If your home has experienced damage from a cooking fire, know that SERVPRO of East Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch is here to make it “Like it never even happened.”
If you have fire or water damage give us a call today (941) 727-2333.

Fire Hazards In Your Lakewood Ranch Home

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

Recognizing fire hazards in your Bradenton home can help you protect your family and your property.

Recognizing fire hazards can be an important way to protect your Lakewood Ranch or Bradenton home.

The problem with candles

According to the National Fire Protection Association, during a five-year period from 2011 to 2015, fire departments in the United States answered calls to almost 8,700 home structure fires a year that began with candles. In total, 82 deaths, 800 injuries and $295 million in property damage were attributed to candles.

Candles were the cause of 2 percent of reported home fires, with 3 percent resulting in death and 7 percent resulting in injuries. There were an average of 24 home candle fires reported per day during those five years, with the month of December having the highest number of calls per year for home candle fires.

Candle fires during this time span were attributed to 37 percent starting in bedrooms and were responsible for 36 percent of the associated deaths and 51 percent of the associated injuries.

While using candles, it is important that the candle is kept at least one foot away from anything that could catch fire and is placed in a sturdy holder that won’t easily tip over. Never use a candle where oxygen is used in the home—and always extinguish all candles when you leave a room or go to sleep.

Smoking can ignite fires in the home

While cooking is the leading cause of house fires, smoking is the leading cause of home fire deaths. Cigarettes, pipes and cigars contributed to an estimated 17,200 home structure fires in 2014, resulting in 570 deaths, 1,140 injuries and $426 million in property damage.

If you’re a smoker, the safest place to smoke is outside. Most deaths resulted from fires that started in living rooms, family rooms or bedrooms.

Extinguish all cigarette butts and ashes with water or sand prior to throwing them away—and keep in mind that one out of four fatalities from smoking-material fires is not the smoker whose smoking started the fire.

Watch for hidden fire hazards

We’ve covered candles and smoking as two of the most common causes of home structure fires. There are also other lesser-known hazards that could be present in your home.

Dust is also a fire risk if it builds up near electrical sockets and floor heaters. Regular sweeping and vacuuming your floors regularly and cleaning hard-to-reach areas can help prevent buildup.

Look out for loose outlets in your home because continuous movement of these electrical outlets may cause loose wires that are connected to the outlet. This could cause dangerous arcing, which could cause a fire.

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.

Fire and smoke damage can be devastating to homes, not to mention the water damage that happens from firefighting efforts. If your home is damaged by fire or smoke call SERVPRO of East Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333.

Smoke Damage Requires Professional Attention

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

One of the most difficult realities for a homeowner to deal with is a house fire. After you learn that your property has been subjected to this type of natural disaster, it's crucial that you get the restoration process going.

In many cases, homeowners are inclined to handle some of the restoration processes themselves, including Palmetto smoke damage removal. While you may find the idea of a do it yourself project appealing, it's important to know that this type of work is best left to the professionals. These individuals possess the extensive education and experience to complete the job with skill and efficacy.

SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch has the experienced restoration professionals to mitigate the damage and restore your home or business to preloss condition.

Learn more about why hiring professional smoke damage companies is a good idea by reviewing the following information:

SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch Uses Special Equipment

One of the reasons that you should leave the Palmetto smoke damage removal process to professionals is because it necessitates the use of specialized equipment. In many cases, smoke can seep into your walls and cause health problems if it is not removed immediately.

The most effective method to remove the smoke is thermal fogging. Professionals execute this process by opening the pores of your walls and then neutralizing the odors contained within.

Professionals combine this strategy with the use of dehumidifiers and ozone generators to get your home in optimal, smoke-free condition.

If you have fire damage call SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333.

Protecting Your Bradenton Business Against Fire Damage

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure your business is properly equipped for fire safety.

There are many responsibilities business owners have, one of them being safety factors to take into consideration regarding risks to your business, staff and visitors. One of those risks that needs some extra consideration is planning for and working toward preventing fires.

Leading Causes of Fires

According to research conducted by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the leading causes of structure fires in office properties from 2007–2011 were (in order):

Cooking equipment, 29% of fires

Electrical distribution and lighting equipment, 12% of fires

Heating equipment, 11% of fires

Intentional, 10% of fires

Smoking materials, 9% of fires

Exposure, 4% of fires

Electronic, office or entertainment equipment, 3% of fires

Three of those causes, intentional, exposure, and electrical distribution and lighting equipment, accounted for the most property damage with 20%, 18% and 15% respectively.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics found that in 2007, fires and explosions accounted for 3% of all workplace fatalities.

When you consider more recent numbers, the NFPA estimates that during the timeframe from 2007–2011, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 3,340 fires involving office properties per year. Those fires were responsible for an annual average of four deaths, 44 injuries and $112 million in direct property damage.

How to Protect Your Business

Let’s take a look at steps you can take to protect your business from fire risk. Some of those steps are focusing on fire risk assessment, fire prevention and staff education. These topics will help you work to reduce the chance of a fire breaking out.

Your first step should be to assess the risk of fire hazards. In some areas, the local government may even offer a visit from a fire marshal to help identify these risks and provide guidance on your fire prevention plan.

Ensure that the proper amount of and right fire protection equipment is in place. This should include an automatic sprinkler system, smoke detectors and fire extinguishers for each floor your business occupies.

Finally, but most important, consider the safety of your employees and visitors. By creating and regularly reviewing your fire plan with your staff, you’ll be making sure everyone is aware of the proper procedure to follow in the event of a fire. Conduct fire drills at least once a year to keep this fire safety protocol fresh, and take time to review evacuation plans and where the first-aid kits are.

Despite best efforts with fire prevention and safety tips, the worst could always happen at your business. If a fire has damaged your business, SERVPRO of East Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch is available to help make it "Like it never even happened."
Call SERVPRO of East Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333.

Do You Understand Smoke Alarms?

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

As fire and water restoration specialists, we have the training, experience and specialized equipment necessary to restore your home or business.

A house fire can be a frightening experience, but according to the National Fire Protection Agency, one of the best fire safety measures is to use a properly functioning smoke alarm. This simple step can dramatically increase your chances of survival if a fire occurs while you are at home.

That’s why it’s important to know how to choose a smoke detector that you can rely on to protect you and your family.

Choose the Type of Smoke Alarm

1. Ionization alarms use a minute amount of americium-241, a radioactive element, to ionize the air that flows into the mechanism. If smoke is introduced, the flow of air is interrupted, which triggers the alarm to sound. These alarms work better at detecting fires that flare up quickly and don’t produce much smoke, such as those started with highly flammable materials. Ionization alarms are the most cost-effective.

2. Photoelectric alarms incorporate a light and a sensor. In its normal state, the sensor does not detect the light; however, smoke particles disperse the light, causing the sensor to detect it and activate the alarm. This type of alarm is better at detecting fires that produce a lot of smoke, such as smoldering fires that are started in beds or upholstered furniture. Photoelectric alarms are more expensive than ionization alarms.

3. Dual sensor alarms combine aspects of both ionization and photoelectricity; therefore they detect both types of fires regardless of how much smoke is produced. Because they are the most effective, they are also the most expensive.

Note the Power Source

Most smoke detectors run on batteries. If they do, you need to be sure to change the batteries regularly, at least once per year. However, some use lithium batteries, which can last up to 10 years. Some even can be connected directly to your home’s current, only using batteries as backup when the power is interrupted.

A smoke alarm can help prevent fires, but sometimes they happen anyway. In the unfortunate event that your home is damaged by a fire, SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch can respond quickly to your home. Our techncians are trained and certified.
Call Us Today – (941) 747-2333

Dealing With Fire Damage In Your Ellenton Home

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch can help after a fire.

Significant fire damage in Ellenton can be an emotionally and economically draining experience.

Residential property owners find themselves caught up in tasks like temporary relocation, reassuring family members, salvaging personal possessions, and working with their insurance companies.

While all of these acts are necessary, it's equally important for you to contact a team of professional fire damage restoration experts like SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch once a fire from a natural disaster or otherwise has occurred on your property.

After Fire Damage to Your Ellenton Property, Call SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch for Help

Structural damage the heat from the flames can cause substantial destruction to numerous areas of your property in Ellenton. This damage will frequently result in the destruction of your property's infrastructure, such as electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, not to mention the actual building materials of your house.

The fire damage will be exacerbated by water damaging effects from the fire extinguishing. Residue smoke and fire produce acidic residue that can cause dangerous chemical reactions. These chemical reactions will continue until you have the residue removed. If the residue is not removed quickly, it can cause long-standing problems on your property.

For example, the residue can cause your paint finishes to start flaking off and then lead to corrosion and rust.

We proudly serve our local communities and are ready to help 24/7. Call us. SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333

Fire Damage and Sensitive Electronics

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Cleanup in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch

Call The Experts For Help

Cleaning Up After A Fire in Bradenton

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Call SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch

After A Fire Insurance Shouldn't Be A Worry

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch, we are here to help with fire damage and the secondary smoke and water damage 941-747-2333

Four of every five fire deaths and three quarters of all reported fire injuries in the US were caused by home structure fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association. NFPA Fires are known to spread quickly and cause a lot of damage.

Restoring your home to its original state can be costly. You don’t have to meet all the expenses on your own, because homeowners insurance covers fire damage. It's always good to understand the process, but know we will be there to help and we will work with your insurance company.

During a fire, there can be a lot of damage to your property and personal possessions. The damage results not only from the fire, but also from the smoke and the actions by the fire fighters. This is called secondary damage. Secondary damage can lead to mold growth, rusting or metals and permanent staining of plastics and PVC materials.

What Does Fire Damage Insurance Cover?

These policies are varied, and cover anything ranging from totally razed down structures and personal items.

Generally, the policies cover:

• The cost of total loss to your home.

• Cost of repairs to your damaged structure and the interior of the house.

• Covering of lost personal possessions.

• The cost of temporary housing as you wait for the house to be repaired.

• Costs of secondary damage to your property due to smoke and water damage.

In order to be compensated, you need to file a fire damage insurance claim. Remember we can take care of this for you.

Filing a Claim for Damages

Filing for damages can be complicated. This is because the insurance company will try to give you a minimum payout that might not be enough for the damages incurred.

Here are tips to make sure you get what you deserve:

Document the Damages
List all the damages that you have incurred both structural and personal. Make sure you take photos of the damages, the date it occurred, type of loss and a written report if possible. Document any injuries and make sure you get the police report. When taking photos, it is best to  include a general photo as well as close-up photos of specific damages.

Keep Receipts and Bills
The insurance company needs evidence to understand what to pay. If you have performed any minor repairs, keep the receipts so that the insurance company understands the original damages.

Keep the Evidence Intact
The adjustor uses the site of the accident to determine your compensation. So, don’t throw away any damaged items before the insurance adjustor has been at the site.

We work with your insurance.
For a stress free claims process, SERVPRO can help manage the insurance paperwork and process.

At SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch, we are here to help with fire damage and the secondary smoke and water damage. Give us a call if you live in Bradenton, or Lakewood Ranch, 941-747-2333.

Dealing With The Mess After The Fire

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

The smoke that lingers after a fire can be more damaging than you might think. Call SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333.

The experts with the NFPA have found that most home fires and fire casualties result from five causes: cooking, heating, electrical distribution and lighting equipment, intentional fire setting, and smoking materials.

The smoke that lingers after a fire has been put out can be more damaging than you might think. The problem that many homeowners have is that they don’t think a fire or smoke damage could ever happen to them. The reality is that home fires are incredibly common, ranging from the very minor to the more major.

Despite the fact that a minor fire may not cause a lot of fire damage, it can still cause smoke damage that is difficult to clean and dangerous to be living around.

Smoke damage that is a direct result of fire damage should ideally be cleaned by experts, such as SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch.

Experts know how to get rid of smoke damage that might be present in the home after it has been ravished by flames. You should always look to hire a licensed and highly experienced professional who has extensive experience dealing with fire damage.

The professionals of SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch will often start by evaluating the overall extent of the damage that is present in the home, and then they will go over prices and costs of damage remediation for you to get the issue cleaned up by their company. We use the same industry standards respected by insurance companies and adjusters.

There are a lot of reasons why handling smoke damage after a fire should be done by experts and as quickly as possible. The smoke that you find after a fire often contains ash, soot and sometimes even carbons and tar that might have come off of the flames. Also, carbon monoxide is incredibly common after fire damage has been exhibited. Carbon monoxide is one of the most dangerous things because it is odorless and cannot be seen or tasted. Therefore, you may not even know that you are surrounded by carbon monoxide until it has been properly tested.
Smoke damage can also be aesthetically damaging.

Furniture, walls, ceilings and practically anything in your home can become black or gray from the smoke that has come off from a fire. Many things will need to be professionally cleaned, while other things might have to be fully removed from the home in order to get rid of the problem.

SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch tell you what can and cannot be saved after you have dealt with massive smoke damage in your own home.

Fires are very common, and even the most minor fire can cause a lot of smoke damage. In fact, some homeowners who have simple fireplaces that are not well-vented could deal with smoke damage without a fire ever being an issue for the home itself. Handling the damage on your own should be avoided simply because of all of the expertise that goes into cleaning the mess.

Also, you should have a professional test the home for carbon monoxide to ensure that it is safe. If you have any questions call SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333.

Avoiding A Fire In Your Home During Chilly Weather

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

Always here to help. SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333. We make any size disaster, "Like it never even happened."

Everyone wants to keep their homes and workplaces warm during the winter.

In an effort to keep heating costs down, many residents and employees will turn to alternative heat sources, such as fireplaces and space heaters.

In Lakewood Ranch, fire damage can be prevented by reading the following tips from SERVPRO.

When used and maintained as directed, these methods can effectively warm your home or office. However, there is also an inherent danger, as heating equipment is the leading cause of home fires during the winter months.

According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), the second leading cause of residential home fires, resulting in severe fire damage, is alternate heating sources. Cooking equipment is the primary culprit. Alternative heating sources, such as space heaters, are safe when used correctly according to the manufacturer's guidelines.

SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch would like to pass along the following tips to help minimize the risk for heating fires this winter:

·    Never use the stove, oven or range to heat your home.

·    Never burn green wood, trash, or paper in your fireplace. These fuel sources cause heavy creosote build up, which could eventually start a fire in your chimney.

·    Only buy heaters certified by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as the Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

·    Purchase electronic heaters with a thermostat control mechanism that will switch off if the heater tips over.

·    Never use electric heaters to dry clothes. Place space heaters a minimum of three feet from combustible materials.

·    Plug your electronic heater directly into the wall - do not use an extension cord or a power strip.

·    Always unplug your electric heater when not in use.

Fire Damage in Lakewood Ranch can be minimized. My team and I encourage you to stay warm and safe as the cold front moves in. If you have any questions call SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333

Go To The Pros: Smoke Damage Industry Expertise

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage are devastating to a home. That is why choosing the right restoration company is so important. Homeowners need to understand a broad range of issues in order to make the right choice for smoke restoration. It's necessary to understand what type of smoke has damaged the property as well as the chemicals necessary to remove the damage.

SERVPRO® of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch professionals understand that the smoke odor from plastic can react differently to specific cleaning products than the odor resulting from wood. Remediation specialists know all of these specific components of the smoke restoration process, and this is why obtaining professional services is so critical.

Although dealing with the aftermath of a fire can be challenging, attaining excellent smoke damage restoration services can help you. Professional fire remediation specialists are your best option when you want to attain fast, effective cleaning and repairing services. When you start looking for the excellent smoke damage restoration company to assist you, set your sights on SERVPRO®.

We possess extensive industry experience and can get your residential property back in pristine condition with lightning speed. Call now to learn more about the amazing services we offer!
Since each removal and restoration 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 home.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care. SERVPRO® of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources
As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO® of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch is strategically located to respond quickly to your fire emergency event. When smoke damage occurs we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today! (941) 747-2333.

When fire damages a home in East Bradenton or Lakewood Ranch, we can scale our resources to handle the damage. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. SERVPRO® East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

SERVPRO® East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

If A Fire Starts In Your Home, Make Sure You Already Have A Plan

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

If a fire starts in your home you may have as little as two minutes to escape, according to the American Red Cross. A fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly, along with an early warning from a working smoke alarm can save lives. For more information on protecting your family and home check Red Cross Fire Tips

Very few circumstances can be more traumatic and stressful than the aftermath of fire damage in your home or business. 

Beyond smoke and soot damage; the structure will be soaked with water.  The brave firefighters may also need to cut holes in roofs, knock down doors, and break windows to ensure the fire is extinguished.  SERVPRO® of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333 has the experienced restoration professionals to mitigate the damage and restore your home or business to preloss condition.

If your home is damaged by fire, don't wait, call professional emergency service right away. Call SERVPRO® of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333.

If you need to remove odors from your home or business, you can hire professionals in SERVPRO® of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333.

They can help you identify the source and eliminate the problem. Many odors can be removed without a trace. Home deodorization can also include pet odors, spill odors and other foul smells. Oxidization is just one of many ways specialist might remove offensive smells. Sometimes special equipment and treatments are necessary to clean air ducts, carpets, upholstery and hard surfaces.

From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. SERVPRO® West Bradenton / Anna Maria is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

SERVPRO® East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
24-Hour Emergency Service
Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
Highly Trained Restoration Technicians A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
Locally Owned and Operated
Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Contact SERVPRO® of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch Home.

6/7/2019 (Permalink)

After a fire is completely put out it can still be dangerous to you and your family. The smoke and soot that lingers can be dangerous to everyone in your residence and cause health complications. 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. 
According to USFA:
It is important to understand the risk to your safety and health even after the fire is out. The soot and dirty water left behind may contain things that could make you sick. Be very careful if you go into your home and if you touch any fire-damaged items. You can learn more at www.usfa.fema.gov
If you experience fire damage in East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch here are some things to consider:
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® East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch 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. SERVPRO® East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch 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 – SERVPRO® East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333