Guarding Against the Silent Threat: Attic Fires

1/8/2024 (Permalink)

The attic of this house has caught on fire and will need SERVPRO® to help with the aftermath.

Attic fires pose a significant, yet often overlooked, threat to homeowners. These silent culprits can smolder undetected for extended periods before erupting into a full-blown blaze. The confined space of an attic, filled with insulation and stored belongings, creates a perfect environment for fires to thrive. To safeguard your home, prioritize regular inspections of your attic's electrical wiring and appliances. Ensure that insulation is installed properly, reducing the risk of overheating. Installing smoke detectors in the attic can provide early warnings, crucial for swift action. Additionally, keep the attic clutter-free to eliminate potential fuel sources. Vigilance and preventative measures are key in protecting your home from the hidden danger of attic fires. Should you experience an attic fire, call your local SERVPRO®.  

Fire Damage needs Swift Action. Fire Damage needs SERVPRO.

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will be there a few minutes after these brave boys go back to the station!

If your home or business experienced any fire damage during the Holiday Season, you need to act quickly to handle the cleanup, and the first step is finding a Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration Company, and that company is SERVPRO of Greensboro North! We specialise in finishing the entire job, from cleaning walls, ceilings, and floors, to deodorizing carpets and upholstery, to cleaning out air ducts, which can keep the smell of smoke alive in your home for weeks if not taken care of. If you hire a cleanup and restoration company that only finishes half the job and moves along (almost certainly charging you the same price despite doing an inferior job!), your damage won’t actually be fully restored, and you’ll be back to where you started. So get someone who can do it right the first time and finish the job with excellence.

Fireworks on New Year’s Eve? Be Smart and Safe!

1/1/2022 (Permalink)

This fella is getting outclassed in the perennial "Bring your coolest firework" competition.

2021 AD is passing through our fingers by the day, and 2022 AD is rapidly approaching, and anyone expecting you to lay low on NYE and hold off on the fanfare doesn’t understand what this great country is all about. We all know you’re going to drive down to SC and get some real fireworks (or you already did during your last beach trip, and you’ve been saving your stash until now!), so you might as well be safe during the weekend festivities so you don’t end up like football star Jason Piere-Paul, or worse, accidentally burning some of your cool things you own.

The biggest rule is don’t hold fireworks in your hands. This shouldn’t even need to be said, but too many galaxy-brains on the internet have been running around, shooting each other with roman candles and bottle rockets. It’s not the 1980s anymore, folks! Those anarchic days of old are over, and you can’t behave like that in 2022.

Next, make sure you point your fireworks away from your house or the houses of others, as well as stacks of firewood. That’s just a recipe for disaster.

So have fun and stay safe, folks!

What is Greensboro’s Risk for Wildfires?

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

The Gray means "No Data," which means it's either currently on fire, or never on fire. Are ya feelin lucky, punk?

If you’ve been unfortunate enough to watch the news on the television, you’ve likely seen frightening images of wildfires spreading across the West Coast, from LA all the way up to Washington. But we’re on the Eastern Seaboard over here at SERVPRO of Burlington NC, so what’s our risk for wildfire damage? Luckily, in the Piedmont Triad, we’re fairly safe from Wildfire Damage. FEMA classifies our risk as “Fairly Low.” (Seen here: https://hazards.fema.gov/nri/wildfire) Unless you’re living in the counties near the beach, especially the Southeastern Counties, you’re likely safe.

That being said, we’re not out of the woods yet! Actually, we are. We’re inside your home, where the true danger is! Most fire damage actually comes from inside the home. You can read some tips on how to avoid said damage here: Christmastime is the time for cheer, not Housefires!

You can follow the above link to see the full map of Wildfire Loss Risk, or you can peep the attached image.

One Weird Tip to Save your Life from a Fire! (It’s only $15!)

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

I'm not so sure the Fire Department's latest cost-saving uniform is as protective as the original model...

You probably already know the answer to this question: What can save your life in a fire, costs as little as $15, and is easy to use for anyone in a pinch? A fire extinguisher!

Almost every house has a fire extinguisher in it, and if yours doesn’t, your first order of business should be purchasing one and putting in a convenient and memorable place, so when your piping-hot vat of grease you were deep-frying a pizza in starts flaming, you’ll know exactly where to go to grab what you need to put it out (do NOT use water on a grease fire), and even though you’ll make quite a mess, you’ll save your home and family from having a sad Christmas. 

If you’d like some tips on how to prevent the house fire to begin with, check out this article here: Chestnuts may be Roasting on an Open Fire, but your Home shouldn't be!

What to do after a House Fire?

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

Yeah, we can handle this. It's not too much damage. It might not even be damaged enough!

House Fires can be a very traumatic experience, as well as financially painful, but if you make wise choices immediately afterwards, you can salvage much of the damage. You must act quickly, however!

We are assuming the fire is currently out. If not, take care of that, and then come back.

Now, the first thing you must do is call SERVPRO of Greensboro North at (336) 379-1772. Then, you will talk to a franchise professional about your fire damage, and we can give you a timeline for an estimate and be able to get to work deodorizing, cleaning walls, floors, and ceilings of smoke damage, and restoring your fabrics and fragile items exposed to fire. We are IICRC-certified to handle fire damage cleanup and restoration and will get your home back to as close to preloss conditions as possible and make it “Like it never even happened.”

5 Common Causes of Fires In The Workplace

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

We all can do our part to reduce hazards in our respective workplaces including fire prevention. While the coronavirus has rightfully placed public health at the forefront of workplace safety it’s critical that people don’t forget other dangers in the workplace. According to estimates from the National Fire Protection Agency, fire departments across the United States responded to 3,340 office fires from 2007-2011.

Any sort of interruptions in your business whether in or out of your control can hurt your bottom line. Compounded by the pandemic, your business set ablaze may only add to your stresses. To help you think of potential fire hazards in your place we’ve listed out five common causes of fires according to NFPA.org. All of the common causes listed can be applied to warehouses, factories, office spaces, restaurants, and other commercial properties. 

1. Cooking equipment including ovens, stovetops, microwaves, and burners. 
2. Heating equipment including space heaters. 
3. Electrical equipment including computers, printers, and other electrical office items. 
4. Smoking on the premises.
5. Fires that are intentionally set. 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, flood, mold, or storm damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772. 

References  

https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/Building-and-Life-Safety/US-Structure-in-Office-Properties 

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks 

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Top-fire-causes

Is My Space Heater A Fire Hazard?

12/31/2020 (Permalink)

As the winter season sets in and temperatures prepare to plummet, thousands of families across Guilford County will be utilizing different forms of heating equipment to remain warm. Space heaters may be one mechanism homeowners use and although it may be great at creating a comfortable environment inside your home it may also present themselves as a fire hazard if not properly applied in their given area. According to the National Fire Protection Association. Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths.

To protect yourself, loved ones, and property from the potential fire hazard posed by spaces heaters the SERVPRO of Greensboro North team has listed several points below. 

• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment including spaces heaters. 
• Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around space heaters.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

Providing useful information to keep your family safe this winter season is important to our team. If you do, however, experience a home fire damaging portions of your property or all of it in its entirety our team is ready to respond to mitigate the damage. The SERVPRO of Greensboro North team has performed thousands of fire restoration jobs in our twenty plus years of existence. Whether it’s staining soot damage, a lasting smoke odor, or varying contents such as furniture, toys, and precious family keepsakes you need to be taken care of. We’re here to help! 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, flood, mold, or storm damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772. 

References  

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/winter-holiday-fires-infographic.pdf  

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Top-fire-causes/Heating 

https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/US-Fire-Problem/Candle-fires 

https://www.esfi.org/news/5-things-you-should-know-about-space-heaters-638#sthash.LTHHLmhN.dpbs 

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/Heating_Safety.ashx

Candle Fires This Winter Season

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

Lit Candles

The cool crisp air reminds us to layer up for the elements before we leave our homes for the day’s activities. Pulling a sweater over your head or zipping up your coat isn’t ideal when you’re staying home the majority of the time. With recent temperatures dipping near or below freezing thousands of homeowners are finding ways to stay warm this winter while also limiting their heating bill expenditures. 

Candles while not a primary heat provider is commonly used to add emotional warmth to a person’s home. Scented candles in particular perform this task truly well, however, it’s critical that you take precautions. Candles may quickly become a fire hazard potentially leading to your home becoming ablaze with flames causing smoke and soot damage. Remember to keep candles at least a foot away from any flammable objects including curtains and furniture. Blow out any lit candles before you leave the room for the evening. Lastly, consider utilizing battery-operated flameless candles which can offer the same effect as authentic candles with a minimal fire hazard. 

Here are more facts on candle fires to emphasize the importance of taking safety precautions to protect your family and loved ones this season.

During the five-year period of 2014-2018 according to the National Fire Protection Association:

• December is the peak month for candle fires in the United States. 
• Christmas is the peak day for candle fires in the United States. 
• ? of candle fires began in the bedroom. 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, flood, mold, or storm damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772. 

References  

https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/US-Fire-Problem/Candle-fires 

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/winter-holiday-fires-infographic.pdf  

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Top-fire-causes/Heating  

Real vs. Fake: The Great Christmas Tree Debate

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

December is here and the holiday season is in full swing. Homeowners across Greensboro and surrounding communities will be showcasing their decorative Christmas Tree whether artificial or natural. People still debate the merits of both and while we’re not going to settle the score here. They're safety precautions you should take regardless if you’re purchasing a “real tree” or a fake tree. 

Natural Christmas Trees according to the U.S. Fire Administration, a division of F.E.M.A. pose a higher fire risk compared to artificial trees. Meaning homeowners should take extra safety measures in order to minimize the likelihood of a fire starting. It’s critical that in the hustle or bustle of the holiday season from shopping to entertaining guests that you don’t forget to water your Christmas Tree daily. A dry Christmas Tree may be a potential fire hazard according to the U.S. Fire Administration. 

Along with watering your Christmas Tree daily, homeowners should make sure their tree is at least 3 feet away from any heating source. That will include any space heaters, fireplaces, candles, and radiators. This may require a bit of maneuvering if you live in a tighter space, however is well worth the effort. More than 1 out of 5 Christmas Tree fires was caused due to the tree being close to a heating source. 

As a fire clean-up restoration company, our experienced team is ready to assist you if a fire does occur in your home. Our warehouse contains an arsenal of tools that the SERVPRO team will utilize to mitigate and remediate the fire damage. Christmas trees are a quintessential feature of the holiday season. SERVPRO of Greensboro North wants you and your family to have a wonderful holiday remember the important safety measures everyone should take.

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, flood, mold, or storm damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772.

References  

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/winter-holiday-fires-infographic.pdf

What Are The Dangers of Leaving Cooking Unattended?

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

The holidays are right around the corner, and while this is one of the most exciting times of the year it’s critical that you not forget all the information learned from Fire Prevention Week the first week of October. In the haze of hosting extended family from out of town and preparing a large meal for everyone, it’s easy to fall back into old habits. Thanksgiving according to the National Fire Protection Agency is the day where the highest rates on average of home fires take place, unfortunately.

Fires can quickly spread throughout your home in a matter of minutes and while they can start from electrical malfunction or arson; cooking fires make up the plurality of home fires according to the National Fire Protection Agency. From 2014-2018, 66% on average to be exact. Kitchen fires from cooking may result in significant damage to your home. Leaving cooking unattended to welcome guests or attend to children, even for a few minutes is highly discouraged. Cooking a turkey especially should be done with the utmost care and attention.

Fires from cooking left unattended may also cause large swaths of the interior of your home to fill with smoke. Smoke may damage your kitchen appliances and countertops requiring a professional fire restoration crew to attend to them. Smoke may also spread into other areas of the home layering furniture with soot. Soot may be difficult to get out of your home and contacting an experienced fire restoration to mitigate the damage is crucial to preserving the integrity of each item.

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, flood, mold, or storm damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772. References

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/Thanksgiving Safety.ashx

https://nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Top-fire-causes/Cooking

Prevent Fire Damage To Your Home This Holiday Season

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

The National Fire Protection Association states that fire departments across the United States responded to an average of 160 home fires caused by Christmas trees. A startling statistic as Christmas trees is associated with happiness and peace. Moving into the holiday seasons with Thanksgiving and Christmas it’s critical in the midst of laughter and good times to remember the fire safety tips learned in October from National Fire Prevention Week. 

The holidays from Thanksgiving to Christmas and New Year’s Day are peak season for home fires according to the National Fire Protection Association. Kitchen fires due to cooking are often the culprits of home fires that engulf the entire home with smoke and soot damage compromising the structure’s integrity. To help prevent home fires SERVPRO wants to emphasize the information from Fire Prevention Week back in October. 

1. Never leave cooking unattended. 
2. Turn the pot handles inward to not accidentally knock them over. 
3. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby for convenience. 

The extra use of electricity caused by Christmas lights and holiday decorations both indoors as well as outdoors may increase the possibility of home fires. Before installing any decorating lighting be sure you are not overpowering your system. Doing research beforehand if your novice is a great idea as well. Candles can also be the cause of home fires. Beginning in different rooms in the home before spreading to the entire property. Not lighting candles near flammable objects as well as blowing them out before going to bed for the night are important prevention tactics. 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772.

Closing Out Fire Safety Month

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greensboro North is closing out Fire Safety Month with important information and exciting news for next month. Partnering with local fire departments in Guilford County from Pleasant Garden to Pinecroft Sedgefield, Summerfield, and the City of Greensboro, is critical to getting information out on fire safety. 

Rounding out the end of the month it’s crucial that homeowners check their smoke alarms to ensure the battery isn’t dead and it’s working effectively. Fires can spread within minutes throughout an entire home causing destruction of property and smoke to fill the room leaving a layer of soot in its wake. Having a fire extinguisher located in your kitchen is also a great purchase decision. While sleeping close your bedroom door as well as the doors of your children’s bedroom. It may inhibit the spread of a fire for the time being. 

First responders perform an essential service to the City of Greensboro and surrounding communities of Guilford County. SERVPRO of Greensboro North will be recognizing the local heroes in the communities through our HERO VS. HERO competition. Nominations will be announced on November 5 and will conclude on November 15 with the winner being acknowledged on November 20.  

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, 336-379-1772. 

Preventing Kitchen Fires This Fall

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

The first full week of October is Fire Prevention Week and it’s important you and your loved ones are aware of the ways to prevent house fires as colder temperatures move in. People will be cooking more during the fall and winter seasons which, unfortunately, may lead to kitchen fires. 

Fires can quickly spread to all corners of the home within a matter of minutes causing the entire structure to become layered with soot as smoke moves through the hallways. Having a plan in place to exit your home and dial 911 is important as well as a pursuing method of preventing house fires in the first place. 

A few quick tips on ways to prevent home fires. 

1. Never leave your stove range or oven unattended. 
2. Put a lit on cooking when not actively stirring or pouring ingredients in. 
3. Don’t attempt to cook while intoxicated. 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, 336-379-1772.

Soot Cleanup After House Fire

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

Dealing with the after-effects of a home fire is difficult. From filing a claim with your insurance provider to figuring out where you’ll stay while cleanup, restoration, and repairs take place. All of those thoughts swirling through your head can easily weigh you down. In these sorts of situations hiring a professional fire cleanup crew is the best decision you can make.

Deciding how to clean your recovered items including those layered with soot is an important decision. Soot is a sticky substance that if left on curtains and furniture for too long may sink further into the fibers. Diminishing the likelihood of it being removed completely. 

Cleaning soot is a tedious process requiring rubber gloves, chemicals, tools, and hours of work to effectively remediate the soot. Chemicals and time most people don’t have especially during a hectic situation such as a home fire. 

Soot particles can cause health effects. 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North (336) 379-1772. 

Helping Homeowners After A Fire

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

Experiencing a home fire is a devastating ordeal. Even if the fire is contained to one room or spreads to the entire house the ramifications are many. The SERVPRO of Greensboro North team understands the complications a home fire brings on a family, including the desire to recover as many items as possible from the home. 

Fortunately, our professionals are experienced in the field of fire restoration, in particular content cleaning. Household items, valued goods, and treasured family heirlooms are all on the list of things a homeowner hopes to salvage after a home fire. Our crew members are trained on how to thoroughly clean salvaged items from a home fire, returning the items to the homeowner in better condition. 

SERVPRO of Greensboro North loves engaging with the local community including our local fire departments. We’ve listened to the heart-wrenching stories of firefighters who arrived on scene to a family that’s lost their home. Hearing those stories reminds our team of the important service we provide to homeowners during a difficult time. 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772.

Property Checkup Checklist For Fire Safety

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Fire flames

This upcoming Sunday, March 4 the entire country minus Arizona will be springing forward an hour. During this time people will adjust schedules and also their analog clocks that don’t automatically add an hour when daylight savings starts. It’s also a great time to do a checkup around the interior and exterior of your property for fire safety precautions. 

The checkup of the interior of your property weather a home or residence should most importantly include the fire alarm. Ensuring that your fire alarm is well maintained and functions correction could protect yourself, family, and employees from dubious harm. Check to ensure that the battery has not died out and that the ringing sound for the alarm is audible to all corners of the property. 

Secondly, check all the windows of your property to ensure they’ll able to be opened easily from the inside. Teach your children how to properly open and close a window so that if the worst does occur they’ll be prepared. 

Lastly, when you sleep it’s best to close your bedroom door including your children’s room. Doing so may prevent a fire from entering your or their room for a portion of time allowing them to escape outdoors through a window.

The SERVPRO of Greensboro North team can be reached at (336) 379-1772.

Electric Fire Prevention For The Winter Season

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

Christmas lights hanging on the roof of a house.

The holiday season is in full swing and homeowners will decorate their homes inside and out with an assortment of lights and decorations to contribute to the overall atmosphere of your residence. With the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, it is very easy to lose track of everything going on; forgetting the finer details that will keep you, your family, and home safe. Increasing the electrical utilization of your home inevitable increases the likelihood of your residence catching on fire and following these tips may equip you to fully enjoy this holiday season. 

All electrical equipment purchased or utilized is required to have a statement on the box stating this equipment is acceptable to use by the federal government. Utilizing government-approved equipment for your decorations is a key step and not doing so can put your family at risk. If the equipment instructions specify for indoor or outdoor use it is paramount that you follow those instructions and not just take it under advisement. 

Be sure when setting up your lights and decorations that they’re placed away from any standing water or snow to reduce the risk of causing an electrical fire to your residence. The placing of electric equipment near any standing water may also cause electrocution. Also, keep any Christmas decorations away from community power lines to reduce the likelihood of over-usage.  

Lastly, turn off the Christmas decorations or unplug them completely when sleeping or leaving your residence for an extended period of time. Although an inconvenience the inability to respond immediately if a fire was to occur when the amount to more damage overall.

What Are the Four Stages of a Fire?

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Flames grow during the stages of a fire

By basic definition, Fire is the rapid oxidation of a material in the exothermic chemical process of combustion, releasing heat, light, and various reaction products. (Slower oxidative processes like rusting or digestion are not included by this definition)

By most standards including according to the International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA) there are 4 stages of a fire.  These stages are incipient, growth, fully developed, and decay.  The following is a brief overview of each stage.

Incipient – This first stage begins when heat, oxygen and a fuel source combine and have a chemical reaction resulting in fire.  This is also known as “ignition” and is usually represented by a very small fire which often (and hopefully) goes out on its own, before the following stages are reached.  Recognizing a fire in this stage provides your best chance at suppression or escape.

Growth – The growth stage is where the structures fire load and oxygen are used as fuel for the fire. There are numerous factors affecting the growth stage including where the fire started, what combustibles are near it, ceiling height and the potential for “thermal layering”.  It is during this shortest of the 4 stages when a deadly “flashover” can occur; potentially trapping, injuring or killing firefighters.

Fully Developed – When the growth stage has reached its max and all combustible materials have been ignited, a fire is then considered fully developed.  This is the hottest phase of a fire and the most dangerous for anybody trapped within.

Decay – The longest stage of a fire, is usually the decay stage. It is characterized by a significant decrease in oxygen or fuel, putting an end to the fire.  Two common dangers during this stage are first – the existence of non-flaming combustibles, which can potentially start a new fire if not fully extinguished.  Second, there is the danger of a backdraft when oxygen is reintroduced to a volatile, confined space.

If you’re home or business has experienced fire damage then call us, SERVPRO of Greensboro North at 336-379-1772. We are available 24/7 and 365 to assist you with cleaning up, salvaging and restoring your property.

SERVPRO of Greensboro North is Here to Assist With Fire Damage

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage can be devastating

Fire Damage can be traumatic and devastating. Your entire home or business can be completely consumed. Recovering from a fire can be an emotional experience as you’re grateful to survive, while also having maybe lost so much.

When it comes to fire damage restoration, SERVPRO of Greensboro North is here for you. Our team cares about what you’ve been through and we are here to assist you. Whether you’ve experienced a small kitchen fire, or a devastating house fire, we are able to help you restore your home.

We are here for

1. Emergency Board up
2. Packing, Cleaning and Restoring Content
3. Structure Cleaning
4. Smoke and Odor Removal

Our highly trained technicians aren’t only skilled and experienced, but also empathetic about your situation. They understand exactly what you’re going through, as does our entire office team. We’ll bring our compassion along with our state of the art equipment.

Fires can happen at anytime, day or night. We are here for you 24/7 and 365 days a year. Just SERVPRO of Greensboro North a call at 336-379-1772

Fires Destroy More Than Just Surfaces and Structures

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke stays behind long after fires are extinguished

After the flames subside and surfaces cool what remains of your home can be coated with soot and ash. Even surfaces you can’t see, such as air vents and the fibers of fabric can trap soot and odors. Discoloration and corrosion can can be found throughout your home or office after a fire.  The smell after a fire can also be so overwhelming that it is difficult for most to tolerate.

At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, we are here with our compassion, empathy, highly trained technicians and state of the art equipment.

After a fire has been put out and the structure deemed safe, then we come in to asses the damage. At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, we are here to help restore your home, and your salvageable belongings after a fire. We are here to remove ash, soot and smoke from not only surfaces such as walls, floors and ceilings, but also from the air. Fires leave behind toxins and smoke which must be removed from your home entirely in order to make it safe for you and your family. Air quality is just as important as the surfaces you come into contact with, if not even more so. Our state of the art equipment along with our highly trained technicians ensure that your home and it’s air quality are restored.

Fires can happen at anytime, day or night. We are here for you 24/7 and 365 days a year. Just SERVPRO of Greensboro North a call at 336-379-1772

Fall Fire Safety

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

Taking up dry leaves from around your home is a safety measure

1. October is dedicated to reminding us about fires and the importance of fire safety. It is deemed Fire Prevention Month.  As summer and its heat make way for fall and its cooler temperatures, it is a good time to ensure that we are prepared to protect our property best we can during the next season.

With cooler temperatures comes heat. Heat sources that is. We must turn on or light up a heat source in our homes, our offices and our business locations. It is important to remember that many heating systems require regular service. While the heating systems today are much safer than those in the past, there are still fire hazards and other risks that come with being warm in the cooler months. It is best to have your heating system serviced annually by a qualified technician.  By having someone qualified check out your system, you can ensure it’ll perform as it should which is the best way to guarantee safety in your home. It is also the best way to ensure that your system won’t cut out and quit working for you in the middle of a cold harsh season.

If using a fireplace or a portable heater, other risks are associated. Prior to the cooler weather is the time to check your flu and to have your chimney properly cleaned by a professional prior to use. Always make sure that fireplaces are covered with screens when lit. This is not only to try and prevent anyone from playing with the fire, but also so that if your fire is woodburning, lit ash or sparking wood pieces cannot escape the fireplace. Do not ever leave a lit fireplace unattended.  For portable heaters make sure to keep them away from any items, furniture and clothing. Do not ever leave them on unattended.

If it’s time to change your clock, then it’s time to change your batteries. Daylight savings time is a perfect time to change your smoke detector batteries. If your smoke detectors are older than 10 years old, it is time to replace them. If you do not have smoke detectors, it is now time to install them throughout your home. There should be one smoke detector on each story within your home, including in your basement. It is also recommended that one be in each bedroom and hallway.

Remove dry leaves at least once a week from around your home. Dry leaves can easily catch fire should sparks fly from a nearby fire pit or a tossed cigarette. If your area has not received rain in a few days, then even though your lawn may be browning due to the cooler temperatures, water your lawn around your home to keep it from drying out. Keeping the ground outside your home from drying out, can help to prevent any fires outside your home from spreading to your home.

If your home experiences any fire damage, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We are here for you 24/7 and 365 days a year at 336-379-1772.

Smoke Detectors Are Important

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Alarms are an important part of keeping your family safe in case of a fire

Smoke detectors are something you have installed throughout your home. They are an important part of safety in a home, as they will automatically detect and warn you of the presence of smoke which can save your life in the event of a fire.

Having smoke detectors placed in various locations throughout your home allows for fast and effective detection. The smoke detector has a siren that will warn you, day or night, that there is a potential fire. This allows you to quickly check the nature of the problem, or if need be allows for you to try and evacuate before the fire spreads.

When placed in the right location, the smoke alarm can help firefighters quickly locate the fire in the home, allowing them to better focus their efforts. According to the U.S Fire Administration, you should install smoke alarms on every single floor of your home, as well as in every bedroom, and in the hallway outside of each sleeping area. You should also consider installing smoke alarms in often-forgotten places like basements, attics, utility rooms, and/or garages.

Smoke alarms should be placed on the ceiling or high on a wall. It’s important to check the manufacturer’s instructions for further information regarding the best place to install your smoke alarm. If you choose hardwired smoke alarms, be sure to have them installed by a qualified electrician so that you’re ensured they’re installed properly. If not installed properly, you run the risk of them not working when you need them to. 

While it can be easy to forget to check and test smoke alarms on a regular basis, it is important to ensure that they are not only properly maintained, and kept with fresh batteries but also correctly installed.

if you experience fire damage to your home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached 24/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772. Once the fire dept has cleared the home for you to go back in, that’s where we come in to remove spot, ash and debris. We make sure the air is safe to breath again, and we clean up. We also help to salvage items and to clean them when possible. 

It's grilling season! Here's Some Fire Safety Prevention Tips

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

Memorial Day, a day in which we honor and remember lives lost, kicks off grilling season each year.

Grilling season is officially underway! We just kicked it off celebrating Memorial Day in honor of, and with gratitude for those who passed serving our country. Unfortunately, safety is something that often goes overlooked during grilling season. While many of us know how to “throw down” on the grill or smokers, there are potential dangers which should never be overlooked. Before your first grill of the year and often throughout the grilling season, you must be sure to take precautions. Protection against fires can be relatively simple and inexpensive. Here are some safety tips to help prevent fire fatalities and injuries at your home this summer

• First and foremost, NEVER use a grill indoors. Propane and charcoal BBQ grills must only be used outdoors. If used indoors, or in any enclosed spaces, such as tents, on balconies, they pose both a fire hazard and the risk of exposing occupants to toxic gases and potential asphyxiation.
• Make sure your grill is ready for the job. Start off the season with a clean grill and throughout the season periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below the grill so it cannot be ignited by the heat while cooking.
• Inspect propane fuel lines, and position your grill away from structures, trees and high-traffic walkways.
• Position the grill far away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Always supervise a barbecue grill when it’s in use.
• Keep children and pets far away from grills: declare a minimum three-foot "safe zone" around the grill to avoid any potential injuries to children or pets.
• If using a charcoal grill, only use charcoal starter fluids designed specifically for barbecue grills and do not add any fluid after coals have been lit. even if you do not yet have the flames you desire just let it all sit and eventually your coals will all be hot enough. NEVER use gasoline in your grills! You can also build the fire by adding tightly wound paper (just twist it with your hands and ball it up) and twigs to your charcoal. That is an alternative to lighter fluid. It may not start your coals going as quickly but they will take.
• With gas grills, make sure that the hose connection is tight and check the hoses carefully for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks. If you find any leaks make sure to repair or replace the hoses BEFORE use.
• If using propane, and your propane cylinders are manufactured after April 2002, then they must have overfill protection devices (OPD). OPDs shut off the flow of propane before capacity is reached. OPDS are easily identified by their triangle-shaped hand wheel.
• Use long-handled utensils to avoid burns and splatters.
• Never attempt to move a hot grill.
• In case of a flare-up or fire were to occur; keep an extinguisher nearby and make sure to know how to cut off fuel lines if you are using propane. 
• Wear short, close fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking. Loose clothing can dangle onto grill and catch fire.
• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the grill and have the grill. repaired by a professional, if repairs are necessary.

If you should experience a fire and fire damage inside your home, then once it is extinguished, give us a call. At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, we are here for you 24/7 and 365 days a year in order to assist you with your fire damage. We are also here to assist you with any water damage which can arise from fires as a result of the fire department needing to come in to extinguish your fire. Just give us a call at 336-379-1772 We will make it "Like it never even happened."

What You Can Do To Prevent A House Fire

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Most house fires can be prevented

Fire Departments in the U.S. respond to house fires every 86 seconds! That equates to over 1,000 house fires a day. The number one cause of house fires is they are due to unattended cooking. The second is due to portable or fixed space heaters. 

Fires in your home can occur for a variety of reasons, but many home fires are entirely preventable. While they aren’t 100 % preventable, you can take steps to reduce your risk of a fire occurring in your home.  

Here’s what you can do: 

• Install and maintain smoke alarms on every floor of your home and within every bedroom. Roughly 50% of deaths due to house fires occur during the night while people are sleeping. Make sure that not only are they installed correctly but that batteries are changed out often. 
• Don’t ever leave food cooking unattended. Be it on your stove or deep fryers and other frying equipment you should always be keeping an eye on your food while it’s cooking. 
• Avoid the use of portable and fixed space heaters, as heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fire deaths.
• Have a fire plan for yourself and your family that gets you all out of your home in less than two minutes. Practice this plan often in case of a fire. 
• Avoid smoking in your house. Some ways smoking can cause fires, is if ashes land in the wrong place, if someone’s falls asleep while smoking or if a match is not properly extinguished. 

Should your home experience a fire you will need professionals to tend to your home in order to help restore any damage. At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, we not only come in to help restore, but we also get rid of soot and debris which spread throughout your home and are left behind long after the flames are put out. We are also able to take care of any water damages incurred from attempts made to extinguish the fire. Just give us a call 24/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772 

Christmas Tree Fire Safety

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Take precautions in order to try and avoid your Christmas tree from igniting a fire in your home

Christmas tree fires aren’t very common, however they are likely to cause serious damage if they occur. According to NFPA.org 200 Christmas tree fires ignite each holiday season, resulting in six deaths, 16 injuries, and $14.8 million in property damage per year. Protect your home and family with these Christmas tree safety tips:

• When picking a live Christmas tree every year, choose one with fresh, healthy needles. A simple test to know if you’ve found a good one is if the needles remain intact when you touch them. 
• Make sure not to block any exits when putting up your tree. Should you need to escape a fire, exits such as windows, doorways and access to other rooms should not be blocked.
• Position the tree at least three feet away from your fireplace, and any radiators, candles, lamps, or other heat sources. 
• Before placing a live tree into the tree stand, make sure to cut at least a minimum of 2 inches from the base of your live Christmas tree. 
• Add water to your tree stand and be sure to water your tree every day to keep it moist. 
• Use UL-listed Christmas tree lights rated for indoor use. Check strands closely as you hang them and replace any with frayed cords or loose light bulb connections. Only link together the number of strands recommended by the manufacturer. It is best to turn off Christmas tree lights before you go to bed. 
• Never use lit candles to decorate your tree.
• Throw away or recycle the Christmas tree when the holiday is over. Don’t store a dried-out tree in your home, garage, or yard, as the drier it becomes, the more flammable it becomes.
• Get rid of any live Christmas tree after Christmas by throwing them away or recycling them. Do not store a dried-out tree in or near your home, shed or garage. Dried up Christmas trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against your home. The more dry the tree becomes, the more flammable it becomes. Check with your local community to find a recycling program or put the tree out with your garbage pickup.
• Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent any hazards and to make them last longer for more holiday seasons.

If your home does experience fire damage the professionals at SERVPRO of Greensboro North are here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 336-379-1772

Holiday Decoration Fire Safety

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Decorations can be pretty but if not handled with care can be pretty flammable and damaging to your home

According to NFPA.org US Fire Departments respond to about 840 home fires each year that begin because of holiday decorations, not including Christmas trees. These fires cause two deaths, 36 injuries, and $11.4 million in property damage per year. Don’t let your holiday decorations go up in smoke. Implement these fire safety safety tips in order to try and prevent a holiday fire in your home:

• Choose decorations that are flame retardant or resistant. Then, keep these decorations at least 12 inches away from the fireplace, open candle flames, and other heat sources.
• Check light strands for an indoor or outdoor rating. If hanging lights indoors, use UL-listed Christmas tree lights rated for indoor use. If hanging lights outdoors, use UL-listed Christmas tree lights rated for outdoor use.
• Check strands closely as you hang them and replace any with frayed cords or loose light bulb connections. Replace any broken or missing bulbs before hanging up the lights. 
• Only link together the number of light strands recommended by the manufacturer. 
• If lighting candles for decoration, keep away from other decorations, flammable materials or fabrics and children or pets.
• Stockings should be hung by the fireplace with care. It is best to make sure that any stockings or decorations hung off the mantle, or placed on the mantle, are kept away from the fire. Don’t forget that fires do spark and emit embers. It is best to have a fireplace screen for additional safety to try and prevent any embers from landing on decorations. One spark is all it takes to start a fire. 

If your home does experience fire damage, the professionals at SERVPRO Greensboro North are here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 336-379-1772

Cooler Weather Means an Increase in House Fires

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

Never leave cooking food unattended

Fall and Winter often bring an increase in the amount of people who have lost their homes, and sometimes their lives, due to house fires. Here are a few reasons why house fires typically happen more during the colder months:

More Time Spent Indoors

Colder weather means that most people find themselves wanting to make like a bear and hibernate. People are much more inclined to spend a lot more time at home curled up under a blanket with a cup of tea, or hot cocoa, than they are outside socializing. Homeowners that are normally outside during the warmer months find themselves, their kids, and their pets spending days on end staying completely indoors. All of this time indoors means that the family is using more electricity and heat sources than usual which greatly increase the chances for a house fire.

Additional Heating Methods

Most people use multiple heating sources during the winter on top of their normal furnace usage. Space heaters and fireplaces are all used to help create extra warmth or beautiful ambiance during the cold seasons. Knowing how to properly use a space heater can potentially avoid it from causing a fire. It is best to make sure you are not placing it near anything that could catch on fire, to not leave it too close to any fabrics or your bed and not to leave it unattended. When purchasing a space heater try to look for and purchase one with safety features that’ll turn off by itself if knocked over or if it becomes too hot.It is especially important in keeping your home safe this winter. Fireplaces should always be watched and attended to and not left alone to burn.  It is common for sparks and burning wood to fly out from the flames, even around some fireplace screens. These can easily catch carpet and nearby flammables on fire.

Cooking

Most fires that happen inside homes during the winter are ignited from cooking. The colder weather forces most of us to cook indoors instead of using the outdoor grill. All of the extra meals, especially large holiday ones, increase the chances of a house fire. Making sure someone is always present and paying attention while a meal is cooking is key to keeping your home safe. 

If your home does experience a fire, the professionals at SERVPRO Greensboro North, Burlington and Kernersville are here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 336-379-1772. 

Crucial 48 Hours After A Fire

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Do not enter but act quickly

A fire unfortunately is going to not only leave fire damage, but in many cases damage also is caused by the method, or methods in which the fire is extinguished. Homeowners are often left in anguish. Fortunately not all fires leave homes a total loss. After a fire has been extinguished it is best to not risk further damage to your home, its belongings, or damage to yourself and family by attempting to clean up damage by yourself. SERVPRO is here to come in and make it “Like it never even happened.”

The first 48 hours after fire damage is crucial time as it can make a difference between being able to restore versus having to replace your property and belongings. Fire damage includes, smoke and soot which needs to be tended to properly to ensure that any belongings that can be salvaged and restored are. Precious memories can be recovered and brought back to original condition whenever possible.

Do not go back into the house out of curiosity or for any items think you can’t bear to lose. The most valuable thing is your life and the lives of everyone else who resides in the home. Everything else is replaceable. Don’t go back in because it can be very dangerous. Until the entire structure of your home is deemed safe to enter than do not return.

The sooner professionals like SERVPRO Greensboro North are brought in, the better. Should you experience fire damage, we are here to help. Please contact us 24/7 at 336-379-1772

Fight Fire With An Extinguisher

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

Aim correctly towards the base of the fire

In case of Fire, do you know how to properly use a Fire Extinguisher? How about which to buy? It is always best to be prepared to fight a fire if it is possible, small enough and controlled enough to do so. If a fire is already getting out of control, or your extinguisher is not handy or blocked by the fire than for your own safety get outside and do not try to extinguish.

How to use a fire extinguisher:

Do you know what PASS stands for? It is something everyone in your home and business should know in order to be able to best try to extinguish a fire. PASS refers to how to use a fire extinguisher properly.

P- Pull the pin out

A- Aim the nozzle towards the bottom and base of the fire

S-Slowly squeeze the lever on the extinguisher

S-Sweep the extinguisher by moving the spray side to side over the bottom and base of the fire

If you are not using a fire extinguisher properly, you may avoid extinguishing a fire that otherwise you would have been able to put out.

Which type(s) to choose:

It is important if you are the one purchasing an extinguisher, to make sure that you have the right fire extinguishers, plural, in your home and business. That’s right. There are FOUR different classes of fire extinguishers. Knowing what each class may help to extinguish will help you to best choose the right one(s) to protect your home or business.

Class A- Will put out fires in ordinary combustibles such as wood and paper.

Class B- Are for use on flammable liquids like grease, oil and gasoline.

Class C- Suitable for use only on electrically energized fires.

Class D- Are designed for use on flammable metals only.

There are multipurpose fire extinguishers available which can therefore be used on different types of fires. These multipurpose extinguishers will be labeled with more than one class. For example, it may say A-B, or B-C, or

A-B-C on it.

Make sure that you are getting the correct one that could worst best for the type of fires you might experience.

Safety first:

Larger fire extinguisher are not better if you, your family or colleagues will not be able to lift it. One must be able to lift and hold a fire extinguisher while in use. It is not possible to use one properly if it is too heavy for the person using it.

Where to keep them:

Think about where you will need them. The kitchen or garage are two rooms to definitely store fire extinguishers in as they are two of the most likely locations where a fire may start. You should also always make sure to have at least one fire extinguisher on every level of your home. The larger your home or business, the more fire extinguishers you should have throughout and on each level.

Make sure that fire extinguishers are labeled, visible and easily accessible to everyone. Be certain to ensure that each family member or colleague knows where they all are kept throughout your home or office.

Don’t forget about your car! It is just as important to keep the right fire extinguisher in your car as it is in your home and business.

Practice, practice, practice:

It is a good idea to ensure that every family member or colleague knows how to operate a fire extinguisher. If you need assistance contact your local Fire Department. They would be happy to demonstrate for you on how to properly use a fire extinguisher. They will also allow for you, your family or colleagues to try to extinguish a fire by using an extinguisher in front of them. Often, they will schedule to come to you, but you can also go to them.

By making sure to purchase and have the right fire extinguisher(s) on hand where you may need them, ensures that you may be able to protect your home, car or business in case of a fire. Most importantly you’d also be protecting your family, colleagues and yourself.

If your home or business experiences fire damage SERVPRO Greensboro North, Burlington, Kernersville is here for you. Just give us a call at 336-379-1772.

Soot, Smoke, Fire Restoration & Clean-Up

5/7/2018 (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 Greensboro North 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 – 386-379-1772