Increased Risk of Fire in the Summer

4/23/2024 (Permalink)

This House Sustained Significant Fire Damage

Spring is in full swing, and the warm weather just does something to us. It renews a sense of hope and purpose after the long, cold winter.

It invites us to enjoy nature as plants show off their blooms and days grow long, and of course it beckons us to engage in that time-honored tradition: the cookout.

But all the fun of graduation and gender reveal parties, family reunions, and backyard social functions carries with it the inherent danger of accidental fires. In fact, spring sees more daily fires on average than any other time of year.

So before you get your backyard fires going this year, let’s look at a few things.

The Grill. Grills are the No. 1 culprit for cooking accidents in spring and summer. They practically beg to start a blaze somewhere, with their dangerous combinations of high heat and combustible elements. So before you start those chicken wings, make sure your grill is free of defects, on stable ground and being operated safely. And don’t forget about cleaning up when you’re done! Almost 20% of grill fires are due to poor cleaning.

The Fire Pit. Gathering around a backyard fire pit with friends is a great way to spend a breezy evening, and that’s not even counting the blessing of marshmallows. But make sure your fire pit time is spent safely. Use a grate to cut down on potential flying embers, and don’t add leaves or paper to your fires, because they create lots of easily spreadable embers. Always attend to the fire, and never leave kids or pets alone beside the blaze.

Chimneys and dryer vents. While these are unrelated to backyard activities, they’re definitely fire hazards that you should manage while you’re thinking about fire safety. Clean out the chimney so you’re not starting fires in tubes full of ash and soot when fall rolls around, and make sure there’s no built-up lint in your dryer’s vent pipe just waiting to be ignited by high heat.

Your local SERVPRO® technicians are on hand ²⁴⁄₇ for emergencies. If you encounter fire damage at your home or business, no matter the cause, we will be there faster and have it cleaned up sooner. Call or click today and experience the SERVPRO® difference.

Keep It Safe This Grilling Season | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

Restoring fire and smoke damage is one of our specialties. Contact SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City to learn more.

Spring is in full swing, and the warm weather just does something to us. It renews a sense of hope and purpose after the long, cold winter.

It invites us to enjoy nature as plants show off their blooms and days grow long, and of course it beckons us to engage in that time-honored tradition: the cookout.

But all the fun of graduation and gender reveal parties, family reunions, and backyard social functions carries with it the inherent danger of accidental fires. In fact, spring sees more daily fires on average than any other time of year.

So before you get your backyard fires going this year, let’s look at a few things.

The Grill. Grills are the No. 1 culprit for cooking accidents in spring and summer. They practically beg to start a blaze somewhere, with their dangerous combinations of high heat and combustible elements. So before you start those chicken wings, make sure your grill is free of defects, on stable ground and being operated safely. And don’t forget about cleaning up when you’re done! Almost 20% of grill fires are due to poor cleaning.

The Fire Pit. Gathering around a backyard fire pit with friends is a great way to spend a breezy evening, and that’s not even counting the blessing of marshmallows. But make sure your fire pit time is spent safely. Use a grate to cut down on potential flying embers, and don’t add leaves or paper to your fires, because they create lots of easily spreadable embers. Always attend to the fire, and never leave kids or pets alone beside the blaze.

Chimneys and dryer vents. While these are unrelated to backyard activities, they’re definitely fire hazards that you should manage while you’re thinking about fire safety. Clean out the chimney so you’re not starting fires in tubes full of ash and soot when fall rolls around, and make sure there’s no built-up lint in your dryer’s vent pipe just waiting to be ignited by high heat.

Your local SERVPRO technicians are on hand ²⁴⁄₇ for emergencies. If you encounter fire damage at your home or business, no matter the cause, we will be there faster and have it cleaned up sooner. Call or click today and experience the SERVPRO difference.

SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City Fire Safety Tips -Cooking in the Kitchen

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

The kitchen is always the MAIN area for family and friends to gather, to spend quality time together, as food is being prepared, or maybe sitting down for coffee and conversation. The kitchen can also be the area where many home fires occur.

SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City is ALL about sharing tips and tricks to keep you and your loved ones safe and secure while cooking in the kitchen.

Here is just a few:

1. Be careful about the type of clothing you wear when cooking. Does your outfit have long, flowing sleeves or is it big and baggy? 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. Be aware of what you have close to 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 should be moved away from it.
3. Have a fire extinguisher easily accessible to the kitchen. Hopefully you have 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. Wait until grease is cool before disposing of it. The grease may not be on fire, but 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. Have a fire escape plan established for all to be aware of. 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.

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 Henderson/Boulder City is here to make it “Like it never even happened.” Call today to learn more about our complete fire damage restoration services at 702-564-8508.

Fire Damage Tips-What to do until help arrives!

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

For more tips on Fire Damage What to do's, call SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City at: 702-564-8508

When you come home to an unfortunate fire damage it is important to do things to prevent further damage, and don't do things that might cause more damage.

Follow these do's and don'ts to reduce damage and increase the chance of a successful restoration process.

These Emergency Tips will assist you in taking proper action until your SERVPRO professional arrives.

Do:

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

Don't

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

For more Fire Damage tips call us today at      702-564-8508

Fire Safety via a Geometry Lesson | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business has any damage, SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City is ready around the clock to help you recover.

Fire can seem to be a source of limitless destruction, and truly, sometimes its power is so immense that it takes herculean effort to contain or extinguish. But the truth is that every fire is limited by the presence and activity of the same four things that start it. How? We’ll show you.

The fire tetrahedron is a 3D model, representing the things that start and control every fire—shockingly, there are only four, shown in the model as connected equilateral triangles. It is the discovery of these four common elements that we know how fires start, and inversely, how any fire can be stopped.

Let’s see what the tetrahedron has to teach us.

The 4 Things a Fire Needs to Live

Fuel. A fuel source may not be the only thing a fire needs, but a fire certainly can’t happen without one. Every fire has to consume a material, or else there’s nothing to burn anyway.

Heat. Fires don’t happen unless a fuel source is present, and unless that fuel source gets heated to a level that creates a combustion reaction. Of course, for that combustion reaction to happen, there needs to be plenty of…

Oxygen. Oxygen isn’t the fuel source, but it does fuel the fire in a different sense. The consumption and conversion of oxygen is crucial to fire origination and continuation.

Chemical Chain Reaction. All these things have to happen both simultaneously and repeatedly. The chain reaction, which is the most recent addition to the tetrahedron, is described as the cycle by which the pyro-automatic process is maintained.

The 4 Ways to Stop a Fire

Cool it. We know how this works, don’t we? Water meet fire, fire goes out. But it’s important to note that the water doesn’t cool the fire itself—it cools the fuel source, bringing about a thermal balance, which keeps the fuel’s temperature under the combustion threshold.

Smother it. That oxygen the fire desperately craves is a definite weakness that can be exploited to a firefighter’s advantage. If the fire can be adequately smothered or covered by a substance or object that keeps it from breathing fresh oxygen, the fire can’t survive.

Starve it. Once there’s nothing left to burn, the fire is over; plain and simple. Thus removing fuel from an active fire or from the path of the fire is an effective firefighting strategy.

Interrupt the chain reaction. Like your car’s engine, a fire can’t merely crank once and be done—the process has to continue. And there is a family of gases called halons that are adept at making that cycle “miss,” to stick with the car analogy. Some of these halons have been proven unsafe for the environment and are no longer produced, but some newer types have been developed which leave no residue and are safe for the ozone layer.

If the fire tetrahedron makes a wreck of your home or business, we’re ready around the clock to help you recover. Contact SERVPRO anytime for fast, thorough cleanup and recovery after a fire.

5 Ways Fires Start at Home | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City is here for you if your home is affected by fire

5 Ways Fires Start at Home | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

Fire safety is an important part of everyday life. Think about how often you cook, turn on a heat source for comfort or use electrical appliances. Opportunities for fire are all around, which is what makes great caution so necessary.

And yet, a quarter of all reported fires across the country still start at home, despite all we know and practice regarding fire safety and prevention.

Let’s look at the most likely places fires may start in the house.

Cooking. Flip a coin and call it in the air—the odds that you’re right or wrong are essentially the exact same odds that a fire that starts in your home will start in the kitchen. The main reason? Unattended cooking. Leaving the heat source alone with food, grease or near flammable materials is a recipe for disaster. Always pay attention, and never leave your food to cook itself without supervision.

Heating equipment. Heaters of various kinds can cause issues, and any heat source can start a fire if it’s too close to something that can ignite (always keep at least a three-foot radius), but small space heaters in particular are known to be troublesome. If yours is older, upgrade it to a new model that will shut off automatically if it tips over or overheats.

Electrical fires. Think about all the electricity currently (pun way intended) being used in your home. It only takes one unmanaged short-circuit to send your house into a fiery frenzy. Always keep your wiring updated, and allow a professional to conduct routine checkups and maintenance annually.

Intentional fires. It’s hard to swallow, but 28,000 home fires per year—more than 75 every day, are started on purpose by people who intentionally misuse heating sources or materials to set fire to property.

Smoking materials. Your home is more likely to experience an intentional fire than a fire begun by smoking paraphernalia, but sadly, smoking fires cause more deaths than any other type of fire on this list. If you smoke, always do it carefully, and never smoke while impaired or drowsy.

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO is here for you if your home is affected by fire. Contact your local team today to see how we can help.

Defending Your Home From Wildfire | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged by fire or any other reason, SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City is ready and able to repair any damage.

Defending Your Home From Wildfire | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

Wildfires are a devastating thought for Nevada homeowners, and more of a potentially reality here than we’d like to think about. Property damage due to wildfire happens more often than most people may realize.

And with their intensity and rate of acceleration, it’s a wonder firefighters are ever able to get them under containment.

But there are things you as a homeowner can do to prevent and slow the spread of wildfires, aside from simply being more careful, which is the best method of prevention.

We’re talking today about “defensible space.”

What Is Defensible Space?

It’s not a NASA protection initiative. “Defensible space” is a buffer zone (technically it’s three) with which you can surround your home to protect it from an oncoming fire. You can slow the spread with the right combination of planting and pruning practices, use of concrete or gravel, and removal of easy fuel sources like brush and decayed trees.

Think of it as an obstacle of protection (aka defense), designed to starve a fire as it approaches your home. It also gives firefighters their best chance of stopping a wildfire before it gets to your structure.

Defensible space isn’t required by law in Clark County like it is in some parts of Nevada, but around 80% of homes and businesses already employ the method here, which is one of the factors that has led to our area being considered a lower hazard risk.

Why Defensible Space Matters

Wildfires can and do happen everywhere in the United States. There were over 59,000 wildfires across the country in 2020.

Even without California’s 10,000+ fires, the average number of wildfires per state in 2020 was still almost 1,000. Moreover, the first half of 2021 saw a 25% increase in wildfire occurrence compared to the previous year.

Here in Nevada, we suffered 770 wildfires in 2020, which burned nearly 260,000 acres of land.

Anything you can do to protect your home against wildfires, you should do; defensible space is one more way you can make damage from fire less likely.

If your home is damaged by fire of any sort, wild or not, SERVPRO is ready and able to repair the damage caused. Get in touch today to get the pros on your team.

Brushing Up on Your Grill Safety Skills | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City are the fire restoration experts. To learn more give us a call or contact us online.

Brushing Up on Your Grill Safety Skills | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

During the summer months, grilling is likely one of the main cooking methods you use to create delicious family meals while enjoying the great outdoors. While we are big fans of grilling, we encourage everyone to refresh their knowledge on fire safety to make sure every cookout can remain a pleasant one.

Grill fires happen more than people typically realize. Annually, around 5,700 fires are due to grilling mistakes according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Doing your part to reduce the chances of a grill fire is an important aspect of continuing to enjoy this fun activity.

Refresh Your Knowledge on Grill Fire Safety

Create a safe zone around your grill. When deciding where your grill should go, convenience might be the top thing you prioritize—but be sure to prioritize your safety, as well. Three feet of space is the general rule for what you should have around your grill, and this includes structures, people and even pets that could be harmed if there is a flare-up.

Clean your grill grates often. Having food caked onto your grill grates is not just bad for your cooking experience—it is also a common cause of grill fires. Leaving grease and crumbs to accumulate on the grates can lead to a sudden fire if they become too hot, so cleaning your grill after each use is a good habit to get into.

Never leave the grill unattended. When a sudden fire happens, being there to immediately douse the flames with a fire extinguisher can be the difference between a close call and a disaster. If you have to take a break from watching the grill carefully, be sure you have someone else take over so there are always eyes on the open flame.

Inspect the grill regularly. Even before you start grilling, there can be potential hazards present. Gas lines that run between the tank and your grill can wear down with time, leading to a disastrous situation if they are not replaced and a flame is nearby. A visual inspection is recommended before you introduce any open flames.

If you have a grill fire that does damage to your home, we are here to help. You can call us any time, day or night, to have a quick response from our restoration experts.

Get Help Now From a Team of Experts | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City today. We work with you and your insurance company to get things back to normal quickly after a fire damage

Get Help Now From a Team of Experts | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

If you haven’t, thought about what you would do if your home is damaged by a fire or flood, now might be a good idea to start considering it.

Why? Because disasters happen—and they happen more than you probably think. Disaster claims are much more common than you probably would like to think. According to industry experts, about one in 20 American homeowners will file a claim for some type of home damage this year.

Not every damage incident with an associated claim will need restoration in order to get their home back to its original state. But many homeowners find themselves in need of professional services.

Home Disaster Numbers in America

According to the Insurance Information Institute, about one in 20 homeowners will file a home damage this year. The statistic includes all causes of damage and doesn’t separate the claims based on whether they need restoration services.

We also have some statistics about individual types of disasters and issues, though. About one in 50 homeowners will file a water damage claim. And about one out of every 350 American homeowners have to file a claim for fire damage. Fire damage claims can include everything from lightning strikes to appliance fires.

When you think about the United States’ entire population, that statistic translates to millions of families. Some of these people will need to get help from a professional team. That’s when choosing a quality restoration company will make all the difference for you.

Our People Make the Difference

When you trust us with your home’s restoration work, you can be confident that you are going to receive exceptional service from highly trained professionals.

We offer a lot of benefits, including 24-hour service and advanced technology. But we believe that our people really make the difference.

When you partner with SERVPRO for restoration work, you’ll have a team of highly trained experts ready to help and support you through the damage process. They understand our community, your home and your needs. And they’ll work tirelessly to restore your property.

To prepare for handling any type of restoration, our technicians go through both internal SERVPRO-specific training and obtain specialized certifications from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification, which sets the industry standard for best practices related to restoration.

If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

Is Your Home Safe From Fires This Winter? | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

House fires tend to peak during the winter. SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City are available 24/7 in the event of an emergency.

Is Your Home Safe From Fires This Winter? | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

Are you ready for another Nevada winter? If not, these tips can help you be prepared to reduce your risk for house fires.

These fires are more common than you might believe, and 890 Americans die in winter fires every year. That’s why Henderson residents need to take the important steps to make their homes safer and more secure.

Our team wants to share these simple, budget-friendly tips to help you prepare for the next few months. They’re proven to lower your family’s risk for a house fire, and you can incorporate most of these tips into your routine.

Tips to Make Your Home Safer

Here are some great tips you can use to make your home a safer place:

Don’t leave your candles where they can be easily knocked over. This is easy to do. Please don’t put your candles within three feet of paper and fabric or in a spot where your kids or pets can knock them over. Instead, place them strategically so you can safely enjoy them.

Take care of your home’s natural gas furnace. Many families opt for a natural gas furnace. If yours has, don’t neglect to maintain it. A yearly checkup is important because sometimes furnaces may seem like they’re working well, but they may actually have a clogged vent or rusted pieces.

Use your fireplace safely. Clear chimneys are vital to the safety of your fireplace. Disposing of the ashes correctly will help you keep your home safer, too. A fireplace caked in ashes can be dangerous.

If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

Boulder City Residents Have a Trusted Fire Restoration Partner l SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

If you have fire damage due to a heating malfunction or other issue, count on SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City to fully restore your home.

Boulder City Residents Have a Trusted Fire Restoration Partner l SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

House fires are more common during the winter months. But did you know why?

It’s because this season has some unique fire hazards that aren’t there during the warmer spring and summer months. Many of them revolve around the way we heat our homes. There are various causes of winter fires, ranging from problems with space heaters to toppled candles.

Accidents involving Christmas trees are one of the leading causes of fires. But mishaps with home heating systems and accidents in the kitchen cause their share of issues for homeowners, too.

No one likes to think about dealing with fire damage. But if it happens to your home, there’s a local team ready to help you restore your home.

How SERVPRO Can Help You

Here’s why we are Boulder City’s trusted partner for fire damage restoration:

We’re available ²⁴⁄₇. Fires don’t happen on a predictable schedule. And getting started with the restoration process as soon as possible is a vital step in restoring your home. We know that timing matters during an emergency, so our team is available at any time when you need help.

Our team puts restoration first. We have a team of local experts who want to ensure you get the help you need. With our pool of resources, we can help you save money on your repairs and homeowners insurance premiums.

We’ll help with the whole restoration process. Fire damage goes beyond problems caused by the fire. It can include smoke damage, water damage and issues with odors in furniture upholstery. Our team can work through restoration on all of these and more.

We are members of your community. SERVPRO is a national company. But the owner of our location is a resident. We have access to the leading-edge resources, equipment and techniques available to a large national company, and we bring those things to your restoration project.

If you have fire damage in your home due to a kitchen, heating or other fire, you can count on us for restoration assistance. Our team is always ready to meet your needs and help you restore your home. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services.

Practicing Fire Safety During Winter Activities | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure your fire risk is low during the holidays. If you experience any damage, SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City will be here to help.

Practicing Fire Safety During Winter Activities | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

Any time of year presents the possibilities for a house fire to start, but in the winter it is wise to be extra vigilant about your safety efforts. The majority of house fires begin in the winter season according to the Red Cross’s research, and that is likely due to the fact that many winter activities provide a prime opportunity for fires to occur.

An increase in cooking and baking, as well as the use of heating devices and decorations, can all present fire safety issues. While these things should still be enjoyed, it is important to do so with fire safety in mind to avoid making a house fire part of your winter memories.

Holiday Fire Safety Tips to Keep in Mind

Keep safe when cooking. Cooking is consistently the catalyst for the highest number of house fires during any part of the year, and winter is no different. Winter often brings about large holiday meals and extra baking projects, giving fires more of an opportunity to begin. Avoid keeping flammable objects near the stove and always be sure you have a fire extinguisher handy in case there are any incidents that occur.

Heat the house with proper precautions. If you have a fireplace or a space heater, using it to knock the chill off is likely a regular occurrence—but it should be done with caution. Space heaters have become much safer to use in recent years, so be sure that yours has features such as an automatic shutoff to avoid overheating or tipping. Fireplaces should be inspected each year for issues, and never left burning unattended or while you are sleeping.

Decorate with care. Decorating for the winter holidays is a fun activity, but with the introduction of new electrical wiring brings new concerns. Around 25% of Christmas tree fires start due to wiring, which can be prevented with proper precautions. Never use wiring that is frayed and avoid leaving lights plugged in if you are away or going to sleep. It is also wise to not plug too many things into a single outlet or power strip, as this can lead to sparks.

If you have damage due to a house fire, you can depend on us to help. Contact us 24 hours a day to report damage and receive a quick response from our certified restoration technicians. Get in touch today.

Our Unique Fire Cleanup Process | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

Residential Fire & Smoke Loss

Our Unique Fire Cleanup Process | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

While most homeowners understand the importance of fire preparedness, many do not realize that it is something they should be extra vigilant about in the winter. The Red Cross reports that the majority of house fires occur in colder months, especially around December and January.

To prepare for the moment you are alerted to a house fire, create a home fire escape plan to rehearse with every family member. In considering how you will recover from a home fire, choosing a restoration company in advance can help you have your home restored quickly because you will be able to call and get the process started right away.

The Fire Cleanup Process You Can Expect From Us

Recovering quickly from a fire is about getting your life back to normal by having your home and belongings restored. This will not only lead to your physical recovery from the incident but can help the emotional recovery as well. That is why we have a thorough cleanup process for the post-fire restoration, involving your structure, belongings and air quality:

Structural Cleaning

Because of how important proper structural cleaning and restoration is, we begin the process with tests to ensure we can determine the extent of the damage and do not overlook anything in the process. From there, our technicians will begin to clean and reconstruct the area, removing soot and charring from surfaces and even preparing areas for paint if need be.

Content Cleaning

Replacing all of the contents affected by a home fire is often far more expensive than restoring them, which is why we make sure we have the equipment to be able to clean, sanitize and deodorize most household items. Utilizing wet and dry cleaning methods, we can make sure kitchenwares, electronics and other items are safe and do not have remnants of the fire’s effect.

Deodorization Services

Smoke odors and soot can persist even after other fire restoration has been completed, leading to extreme consequences for your family’s health. By bringing in air foggers and scrubbers, we can remove all of these harmful particles—not only getting rid of the odor but making sure your home is safe as well.

If you’ve been affected by a fire, we are here ²⁴⁄₇ to help you recover. 702-564-8508

Important Fire Safety Tips to Note | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

A house fire can occur when you least expect it. SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City is on call 24/7 and will guide you through any fire restoration pro

Important Fire Safety Tips to Note | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

When considering the frequency of house fires, it brings into perspective how important fire safety is. House fires not only result in a loss of property and objects of sentimental value, but they can also cause injuries and fatalities that could often be prevented.

There are many fire safety tips to be found online, but it is typically difficult to find the most relevant ones all together—which is exactly why we have made an overview of the most pertinent tips for fire safety for your ease of reference.

An Overview of Fire Safety

Frequently Check Smoke Detectors. Smoke detectors are extremely important to fire safety and should be installed in every bedroom and on every floor. Individuals should also do a routine monthly check to ensure they are operational, and replace them every 10 years or as directed by the manufacturer.

Have a Fire Escape Plan. Creating an evacuation plan for the event of a house fire starting is a great way to ensure everyone in your household will know exactly what to do and can act efficiently if a fire starts. Plan out exit routes, meeting places and for any special provisions your family members may need.

Know How to Operate a Fire Extinguisher. There are many types of fire extinguishers to choose from, so it is advised to get the type you think will be most suited to your needs. Make sure you fully understand how to use it and share the information with your family members, as well.

Never Leave Flames Unattended. Because open flames are so common in the household, many people forget the extreme dangers they can pose. Whether it is from a cooktop or candle, a flame can spread to other surfaces in an instant, which is why it is vital to never leave one unattended for any length of time.

Keep a Closed-Door Policy. Nighttime is a common time for house fires to break out, which is why even sleeping with safety in mind is advised. Closing bedroom doors at night can significantly decrease the amount of time a fire takes to spread, giving everyone more reaction time once the flames are detected.

If you’d like to learn more about protecting yourself from a house fire and how our restoration services can help you recover, get in touch today to learn more.

Important Fire Safety Tips to Note | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

A person laying another wood log into hot burning fireplace

Important Fire Safety Tips to Note | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City - SERVPRO OF HENDERSON/BOULDER CITY Blog

When considering the frequency of house fires, it brings into perspective how important fire safety is. House fires not only result in a loss of property and objects of sentimental value, but they can also cause injuries and fatalities that could often be prevented.

There are many fire safety tips to be found online, but it is typically difficult to find the most relevant ones all together—which is exactly why we have made an overview of the most pertinent tips for fire safety for your ease of reference.

An Overview of Fire Safety

Frequently Check Smoke Detectors. Smoke detectors are extremely important to fire safety and should be installed in every bedroom and on every floor. Individuals should also do a routine monthly check to ensure they are operational, and replace them every 10 years or as directed by the manufacturer.

Have a Fire Escape Plan. Creating an evacuation plan for the event of a house fire starting is a great way to ensure everyone in your household will know exactly what to do and can act efficiently if a fire starts. Plan out exit routes, meeting places and for any special provisions your family members may need.

Know How to Operate a Fire Extinguisher. There are many types of fire extinguishers to choose from, so it is advised to get the type you think will be most suited to your needs. Make sure you fully understand how to use it and share the information with your family members, as well.

Never Leave Flames Unattended. Because open flames are so common in the household, many people forget the extreme dangers they can pose. Whether it is from a cooktop or candle, a flame can spread to other surfaces in an instant, which is why it is vital to never leave one unattended for any length of time.

Keep a Closed-Door Policy. Nighttime is a common time for house fires to break out, which is why even sleeping with safety in mind is advised. Closing bedroom doors at night can significantly decrease the amount of time a fire takes to spread, giving everyone more reaction time once the flames are detected.

If you’d like to learn more about protecting yourself from a house fire and how our restoration services can help you recover, get in touch today to learn more. 702-564-8508

Fire & Smoke Damage Safety-The Do's and Don'ts

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Extensive damage caused by fire to walls and ceiling

Fire damage can be a devastating experience both for home and business owners. Fire damage is difficult to overcome and repair, but there are simple things you can do to motivate the process. When you’re wondering what to do after a fire, here’s a look at things to do (and things not to do) during the fire restoration process.

Dos for Fire Damage Restoration

Your checklist for after a fire should contain certain non-negotiable tasks, including:

• DO contact a certified restoration specialist: Make sure you immediately contact a certified fire and smoke restoration professional for remediation services
• DO turn off utilities: Turn of water, electricity, gas, and any other utilities until a professional can evaluate if any of these systems were damaged during the fire.
• DO break out the vacuum: A professional should provide service, but you can enhance the professional’s chances of success by doing a first pass on your own. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment and go over your upholstered furniture. Your furniture will look better as soon as the soot is removed. Also, cover your furniture with a sheet if you need to sit on it while waiting for professional help. This will prevent the soot and ash from grinding into your upholstery.
• DO address your carpets, floors and countertops: Give similar treatment to your carpets. Vacuum them for an immediate and superficial improvement over the damaged state. It will help prevent soot from grinding deeper into the carpet’s roots. Countertops and hardwood floors should be wiped clean to prevent the soot from deeply staining and clinging to the surfaces.
• DO check your appliances: Your utilities should be off. Make sure empty your freezer and refrigerator, and leave the doors open to prevent mold and mildew. Likewise, winterize your plumbing and drain your hot water heater and boiler. In the absence of heat during the fire damage restoration process, fluids can freeze and cause burst pipes and other damage.
• DO take care of pets: Remove pets from your fire-damaged home. Lingering soot and smoke can be harmful to them.

Don'ts for Fire Damage Restoration

Your checklist should also include several things to avoid at all times, including:

• DON’T use your AC, heater or electronics: Wait until a professional arrives on the scene — same with electronics like the television, computers and DVD players. Turning on electronics can create greater damage.
• DON’T clean walls or clothing: Also, do not clean walls, ceilings and other similar surfaces, and wait to clean your clothing and similar garments. A professional should examine them first and provide advice.
• DON’T eat leftover food: Never eat anything that was in the home during the fire. It is most likely not safe to consume due to contamination from smoke, soot, or contaminants introduced to the environment when the fire was being extinguished.
• DON’T wipe away powder from extinguishers: Forgo trying to clean up any staining from the powder discharged by a fire extinguisher. It is best to let professionals guide the clean up of these areas.

These are some basic guidelines for preventing further damage and get a head start on cleanup, but they are not a substitute for professional restoration services. When in doubt, wait for the professionals. Upholstery, carpets and counters are fine to begin cleaning, but the rest is best left to the pros. And remember, never reenter a home until it has been cleared by the fire department or other local officials.

Always Call an Expert

If you’re wondering what to do after a fire, it’s always tempting to start the cleanup process immediately, and do as much as possible. The best course of action is to hire a certified professional to provide expert knowledge and service. The situation requires the training and knowledge that only a professional can provide. A trusted professional will offer an after-fire checklist that will help speed along the fire and smoke damage cleanup process. Consulting a professional will help you restore your property back to like-new condition as quickly as possible.

At SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City, we provide fire damage restoration services that follow the IICRC guidelines for Fire Damage Restoration. Want to know more about it? Call us today at 702-564-8508

Small Fires Can Cause BIG Odor Problems. SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City Can Help!

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Electric outlets are big fire odor catchers when fire occurs in a home or business.

Even small fires, with the smoke and soot, can create unpleasant odors throughout your home and possibly permanent problems if not properly addressed.

When different types of materials burn, the smoke produced travels through the dwelling leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in those hard to reach places, such a door jams, vents and some light switch outlet covers. It is so important to seek a professional trained in fire, smoke and soot cleaning services. Fire soot and smoke residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents, fixtures, etc.  and can result in periodically resurfacing odors. Unfortunately such damages are often made more severe when property owners attempt to perform the cleanup themselves.

All of your restorable items in the affected areas need to be professionally cleaned and deodorized to return them to preloss condition. This includes furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronic, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and so much more. We at SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City have IICRC Certified professionals specifically trained in Fire and Smoke Restoration. Our technicians do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek them and remove them. Call today to learn more about our Fire Damage Restoration Process at 702-564-8508

Staying Safe When Lightning Is Near | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Lightning Strikes anytime anywhere. Always be safe

Lightning is one of the most dramatic aspects of a thunderstorm—and also one of the most dangerous. Lightning strikes can start fires, ruin electronics and cause structural damage, in addition to all the safety hazards they pose to those who are outside during a storm.

Being aware of what lightning is and how it causes damage are important components of staying safe.

Home Fires & How to Prevent Them

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

Residential home fire that started in garage

A home fire can cause a catastrophic amount of damage in a short time. Because of how quickly flames can spread, a simple spark can quickly get out of hand.

Though there is no way to guarantee you will never have to experience a house fire, being adamant about prevention will help make it less likely.

Home Fire Statistics

While most might assume fires are rare and odd occurrences, the reality is that a home fire occurs every 24 seconds, according to the NFPA.

The No. 1 cause of cooking fires is cooking, but there are many other reasons a fire might break out.

Home Fire Prevention Steps

Flames can spread rapidly once they get out of hand—but being vigilant about fire prevention will reduce the chances of it getting to that point. Here are some things around the house to check when practicing fire prevention:

Smoke detectors. Smoke detectors are typically outfitted with a test unit that allows you to check batteries, which is recommended to be done once per month. It is also recommended to replace the full unit every 10 years.

Dryer tray. The lint in the dryer tray might seem like a general inconvenience, but it can actually start fires as well. An overfull dryer tray can become combustible as the dryer heats up.

Open flames. Keeping an eye on open flames is always a good idea, as flames can quickly travel if conditions are right.

Cords and cables. Wires can sometimes be bent in odd or contorted ways, leading to premature fraying and tears. Check cables often and replace when they become frayed.

Aerosol cans. Aerosol cans are an everyday item that can actually be quite dangerous. Protect them from warm or sunny places to prevent them from combusting.

If your home has suffered damage from a house fire, give SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City a call at 702-564-8508. We are certified in fire and soot remediation, and here to help ²⁴⁄₇.

How to Avoid Fire Hazards in the Kitchen

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

Stove Fire in Kitchen

The kitchen can be a wonderful place for family and friends to gather, spending quality time as food is being prepared to share or perhaps just to catch up with family and friends over a cup of coffee or tea. Unfortunately, the kitchen is also the space where many home fires happen.

Cooking fires are the No. 1 cause of home fires and injuries, and the leading cause of these kitchen fires is unattended cooking.

In 2017, State Farm paid out over $130 million in homeowners insurance claims related to grease and other cooking fires. According to the insurance company, these are the worst states for kitchen fires:

• North Carolina
• Texas
• Pennsylvania
• California
• Ohio
• Illinois
• Maryland
• New York
• Alabama
• Georgia

Fire & Smoke Damage Safety-The Do's and Dont's

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damaged Home

Fire damage can be a devastating experience both for home and business owners. Fire damage is difficult to overcome and repair, but there are simple things you can do to motivate the process. When you’re wondering what to do after a fire, here’s a look at things to do (and things not to do) during the fire restoration process.

Dos for Fire Damage Restoration

Your checklist for after a fire should contain certain non-negotiable tasks, including:

• DO contact a certified restoration specialist: Make sure you immediately contact a certified fire and smoke restoration professional for remediation services
• DO turn off utilities: Turn of water, electricity, gas, and any other utilities until a professional can evaluate if any of these systems were damaged during the fire.
• DO break out the vacuum: A professional should provide service, but you can enhance the professional’s chances of success by doing a first pass on your own. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment and go over your upholstered furniture. Your furniture will look better as soon as the soot is removed. Also, cover your furniture with a sheet if you need to sit on it while waiting for professional help. This will prevent the soot and ash from grinding into your upholstery.
• DO address your carpets, floors and countertops: Give similar treatment to your carpets. Vacuum them for an immediate and superficial improvement over the damaged state. It will help prevent soot from grinding deeper into the carpet’s roots. Countertops and hardwood floors should be wiped clean to prevent the soot from deeply staining and clinging to the surfaces.
• DO check your appliances: Your utilities should be off. Make sure empty your freezer and refrigerator, and leave the doors open to prevent mold and mildew. Likewise, winterize your plumbing and drain your hot water heater and boiler. In the absence of heat during the fire damage restoration process, fluids can freeze and cause burst pipes and other damage.
• DO take care of pets: Remove pets from your fire-damaged home. Lingering soot and smoke can be harmful to them.

Don'ts for Fire Damage Restoration

Your checklist should also include several things to avoid at all times, including:

• DON’T use your AC, heater or electronics: Wait until a professional arrives on the scene — same with electronics like the television, computers and DVD players. Turning on electronics can create greater damage.
• DON’T clean walls or clothing: Also, do not clean walls, ceilings and other similar surfaces, and wait to clean your clothing and similar garments. A professional should examine them first and provide advice.
• DON’T eat leftover food: Never eat anything that was in the home during the fire. It is most likely not safe to consume due to contamination from smoke, soot, or contaminants introduced to the environment when the fire was being extinguished.
• DON’T wipe away powder from extinguishers: Forgo trying to clean up any staining from the powder discharged by a fire extinguisher. It is best to let professionals guide the clean up of these areas.

These are some basic guidelines for preventing further damage and get a head start on cleanup, but they are not a substitute for professional restoration services. When in doubt, wait for the professionals. Upholstery, carpets and counters are fine to begin cleaning, but the rest is best left to the pros. And remember, never reenter a home until it has been cleared by the fire department or other local officials.

Always Call an Expert

If you’re wondering what to do after a fire, it’s always tempting to start the cleanup process immediately, and do as much as possible. The best course of action is to hire a certified professional to provide expert knowledge and service. The situation requires the training and knowledge that only a professional can provide. A trusted professional will offer an after-fire checklist that will help speed along the fire and smoke damage cleanup process. Consulting a professional will help you restore your property back to like-new condition as quickly as possible.

At SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City, we provide fire damage restoration services that follow the IICRC guidelines for Fire Damage Restoration. Want to know more about it? Call us today at 702-564-8508

After the Fire-Home Safety Checklist

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damaged fireplace mantel

Taking the appropriate steps to stay safe.

Do not cut or walk past colored tape that was placed over doors or windows to mark damaged areas unless local authorities advise that it is safe to do so. If a building inspector has placed a color-coded sign on the home, do not enter it until you get more information, advice and instructions about what the sign means and whether it is safe to enter your home.

If you have children, leave them with a relative or friend while you conduct your first inspection of your home after the fire. The site may be unsafe for children, and seeing the damage firsthand may upset them and cause long-term effects, including nightmares.

Check for Structural Damage

• Check the outside of your home before you enter. Look for loose power lines, broken or damaged gas lines, foundation cracks, missing support beams or other damage. Damage on the outside can indicate a serious problem inside. Ask a building inspector or contractor to check the structure before you enter.

• If the door is jammed, don’t force it open – it may be providing support to the rest of your home. Find another way to get inside.

• Damaged locks should be taken apart and wiped with oil. If locks can’t be removed, squirt machine oil through a bolt opening or keyhole, and work the knob to distribute the oil. Hinges should also be thoroughly cleaned and oiled.

• Sniff for gas. If you detect natural or propane gas, or hear a hissing noise, leave the property immediately and get well away from it. Call the fire department after you reach safety.

• If you have a propane tank system, turn off all valves and contact a propane supplier to check the system out before you use it again.

• Check for smoke and embers throughout the home, including the attic.

• Beware of animals, such as rodents, snakes, spiders and insects, that may have entered your home. As you inspect your home, tap loudly and often on the floor with a stick to give notice that you are there.

• Damaged objects, such as furniture or stairs, may be unstable. Be very cautious when moving near them. Avoid holding, pushing or leaning against damaged building parts.

• Is your ceiling sagging? That means it got wet – which makes it heavy and dangerous. It will have to be replaced, so you can try to knock it down. Be careful: wear eye protection and a hard hat, use a long stick, and stand well away from the damaged area. Poke holes in the ceiling starting from the outside of the bulge to let any water drain out slowly. Striking the center of the damaged area may cause the whole ceiling to collapse.

• Is the floor sagging? It could collapse under your weight, so don’t walk there! Small sections that are sagging can be bridged by thick plywood panels or thick, strong boards that extend at least 8–12 inches on each side of the sagging area.

• If the weather is dry, open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home.

• If power is out, use a flashlight. Do not use any open flame, including candles, to inspect for damage or serve as alternate lighting.

• Disconnect and check all appliances for water damage before using them.

• Make temporary repairs such as covering holes, bracing walls, and removing debris. Save all receipts.

• Take photographs of the damage. You may need these to substantiate insurance claims later.

Checking Utilities and Major Systems

Telephones

• Check each telephone to see if it is still on the hook. Hang up any phones that aren’t. Wait a few minutes, and then pick up one phone to listen for a dial tone to know whether you have working telephone service.
• If you don’t have a dial tone, try unplugging all the phones. Plug in one at a time and listen for dial tone. This will help you determine if the phone itself is broken or the service is completely out. If it is, contact the telephone company to report the problem and request repair.

Electrical, Plumbing and Heating Systems

• If you see sparks, broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker.

• If there is a pool of water on the floor between you and the fuse box or circuit breaker panel, use a dry wooden stick to try to reach to turn off the main fuse or breaker, but do not step or stand in water to do that. If you cannot reach the fuse box or breaker panel, call a qualified electrician for assistance.

• Inspect the panel box for any breakers that may have tripped. A tripped breaker may indicate damaged wiring inside your home. Do not turn them on. Call an electrician.

• Use a flashlight to inspect fuses. Replace broken fuses with exactly the same amperage rating and never use an object such as a coin or strip of metal to bypass the protection that fuses provide.

• If you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using sinks, showers or toilets and call a plumber.

• If water pipes are damaged, turn off the water at the main valve. Call a plumber for assistance.
• If you have a heating oil tank system, turn off all valves and contact a professional specializing in maintenance of such equipment before using it again.

Checking Household Items

• Normal household items, such as cleaning products, can cause toxic fumes and other hazards if they mix. See our household chemical safety tips.

• Spilled chemicals that don’t pose a health risk must still be carefully cleaned up. Wear rubber gloves and discard spilled chemicals and rags used for cleaning according to the advice of local authorities.
• Throw away food, beverages and medicine exposed to heat, smoke or soot. Food that was in the freezer can be used if it still has ice crystals on it. If not, discard it.

Make Sure to:

• Stay out of any building that has water around it.

• Keep away from loose or dangling power lines. Report them immediately to the power company.

• Contact your insurance agent. Do not discard damaged goods until an inventory has been taken. Save receipts for money spent relating to fire loss. Your insurance agent may provide immediate help with living expenses until you are able to return home and may offer assistance for repairs.

SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City is always here to help! Call today 702-564-8508

What To Do If A Fire Starts

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

If a Fire Starts:

• Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher
• Remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL 9-1-1 or your local emergency phone number.
• Yell "Fire!" several times and go outside right away. If you live in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.
• If closed doors or handles are warm or smoke blocks your primary escape route, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to the touch.
• If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Close doors behind you.
• If smoke, heat or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with doors closed. Place a wet towel under the door and call the fire department or 9-1-1. Open a window and wave a brightly colored cloth or flashlight to signal for help.
• Once you are outside, go to your meeting place and then send one person to call the fire department. If you cannot get to your meeting place, follow your family emergency communication plan.

If your clothes catch on fire:

• Stop what you’re doing.
• Drop to the ground and cover your face if you can.
• Roll over and over or back and forth until the flames go out. Running will only make the fire burn faster.

THEN:

Fire Safety Basics For Your Home

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

Each year in the United States, over 350,000 house fires occur, resulting in over $5.5 billion in property damage. Financial loss aside, these fires also lead to nearly 3,000 deaths and 10,000 injuries.

The best defense against a house fire is advance preparation. Even more importantly, it’s vital that each member of your household know how to prevent fires and what to do if one should occur.

Start out by teaching your kids basic fire safety guidelines from a young age. Consider these three other fire safety precautions you can practice together:

Fire Hazards-Identifying Them in Your Home

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Candle left burning on fireplace mantle caused extensive fire and smoke damage

Understanding fire hazards and knowing how to identify them is one way you can help protect your home from the possibility of being damaged by fire.

No one likes thinking about this, but unfortunately, it’s a harsh reality for a multitude of Americans. In this blog, we’ll discuss two of the most common household fire hazards.

Watch Those Candles

According to the National Fire Protection Association, over a five-year period from 2011 to 2015, fire departments in the United States responded to an estimated 8,700 house fires per year that were started by candles. In total, candles were the cause of 82 deaths, 800 injuries and $295 million in direct property damage.

Candles caused 2 percent of reported house fires, with 3 percent resulting in death and 7 percent with injuries. An average of 24 home candle fires were reported per day during those five years, with December having the highest amount of calls for home candle fires.

Of all the candle fires during this time span, 37 percent began in the bedroom and were responsible for 36 percent of the associated deaths and 51 percent of the associated injuries.

While using a lit candle, be sure it’s kept at least 12 inches away from anything that could catch fire and is in a sturdy holder that won’t easily tip over. Always blow out all candles before leaving a room or going to sleep. When oxygen is used in the home, never use a candle.

Be Cautious When Smoking

If you’re a smoker, it is safest to smoke outside. Most deaths result from fires that start in living rooms, family rooms or bedrooms.

Consider fire-safe cigarettes as an option, and a deep, sturdy ashtray should be used. Be sure to douse all cigarettes and ashes in water or sand prior to throwing them out and keep in mind that one out of four fatalities caused by smoking-material fires is not the smoker whose cigarette started the fire.

While cooking is the leading cause of home fires, smoking is the leading cause of home fire deaths. An estimated 17,200 home structure fires that were caused by smoking materials were reported in 2014, which includes cigarettes, pipes and cigars.

Those fires caused 570 deaths, 1,140 injuries and $426 million in property damage per the Coalition for Fire-Safe Cigarettes.

Some Lesser-known Hazards in Your Home

While candles and smoking are two of the most common causes of home structure fires, there are also other lesser-known hazards that could be present in your home. Did you know that some kinds of the glassware in your home could be a fire risk? When sunlight passes through them, the magnified ray could ignite flammable materials, which is why it’s best to move glass accessories away from windows and out of sunlight.

Dust bunnies also pose a fire risk if left to collect near electrical sockets and floor heaters. Sweeping or vacuuming your floors regularly and cleaning hard-to-reach areas like behind the entertainment system can keep them from building up.

Also, be aware that loose outlets in your home could spark a fire. The movement of these electrical outlets could loosen wires connected to the outlet and create dangerous arcing.

Fire and smoke damage can be devastating to homes, and in many circumstances, can be accompanied by water damage from firefighting efforts. If your home is damaged by fire or smoke, SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder has your back and is here to help restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Summer Fire Safety

6/25/2018 (Permalink)

Summer is here and that means cookouts and the big event, the 4th of July. Setting off fire works is a tradition that started as early as 1777. Here are some tips to keep you summer safe and fun.

• Only use grills outdoors and way from the home, deck and out from under overhanging branches.
• Always keep children at least 3 feet away from grilling area.
• Never leave your grill unattended. 
• Always clean grease or fat build up.
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

Did you know that according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) that sparklers burn AT 1200 degrees? To put that in prospective, Water boils at 212 degrees and glass melts at 900. If you choose to use consumer fireworks please be safe and always watch children.

Grilling Safety Tips

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

Summer is coming up and for many that means pool parties and grilling. Did you know July is the peak month for grill fires. These tips are here to keep everyone's summer a fun and safe one.

• Remember only to use propane and charcoal grills outdoors.
• The grill should be placed away from the home and clear of any railings, eaves, or over hanging branches.  
• Always keep children a minimum of 3 feet away from the grilling area.
• Never leave the grill unattended.
• Always on any gas grill, make sure the lid is open before lighting it.
• Always, on propane grills, check the gas line for leaks. You can do this by applying a light soap and water solution to the hose. A hose with cracks will release bubbles. 

Also if you smell gas at any time, back away from the grill and call the fire department. 

Electrical Fire Displaces Henderson Family

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

We recently finished working on a fire loss in Henderson caused by faulty wiring. This family was displaced for quite some time and lost irreplaceable contents. We at SERVPRO of Henderson and Boulder City would like to share some electrical safety tips to prevent future damage.

• Always have all electrical work done by a qualified electrician.
• It is a good idea to get an inspection done when buying a new home or making remodels.
• Always use one heat producing appliance (Coffee Maker, Toaster, etc.) in an outlet
• Never use an extension cord for major appliances (refrigerators, dryers, washers, etc.)
• Consider having arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) installed if you do not already have them in place. AFCIs shut off electricity when dangerous conditions occur.
• Check electrical cords and make sure they are not running under carpeting, rugs, or doorways. Extension cords are designed for temporary use. 

For more fire safety tips, check our blog!

Tips you need to know when Cooking-How to Stay Safe in the Kitchen

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire due to frying pan left on stove

Did you know that the leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking? Most of those cooking fires involve the stove.

We have seen plenty of kitchen fires in our 20 years of restoration work. We hope that these tips can help keep your home safe while cooking.

• Always stay in the kitchen if you are boiling, frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you do have to leave the kitchen for a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• Keep anything that has the possibility of catching fire away from your stove top. Including oven mitts, towels, and even curtains.
• If you have a fire on the stove top, slide a lid over the pan to smother the fire and leave it there until it is completely covered.
• If you have an oven fire, turn off the heat and leave the door closed.
• Finally it is always a good idea to keep children away from the stove. 

Removing Porous Materials key To Removing Odor In Fire Damage

2/22/2018 (Permalink)

Technicians removing drywall and insulation due to fire damage

This loss came from a car catching on fire in a garage. The fire affected most of the home but the garage got the worst of the damage. You can see our technicians wearing personal protective equipment because it can be very hard to breath and see with all the soot on materials and in the air.

When big losses like this arise it is very possible to have to remove every inch of porous material, including drywall and insulation. We need to remove all porous materials because the smoke smell is very hard to remove. Removing the source is always the most effective step in odor removal.

We take the time to make sure our technicians are fully trained on the effects of fire and odor by getting them IICRC certified.

Fire Damage Board Ups

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

Customer attempts to keep his possessions safe by covering holes cut by fire department with wooden boards.

Board ups are pretty common to see on fire damages, either the fire department needs to break down a door, or the pressure from the fire causes windows to break, or the fire itself can literally take down walls of a structure. 

That was the case in this job. The fire department had to cut open this garage door in able to attack the fire. Being made of brick there was no other way inside. 

This photo is the customers attempt to keep wondering eyes off his possessions in the garage. This customer had a lot of tools unaffected and needed to keep them safe.

We ask that if you need the extra protection of a proper board up, that you call professionals. We are available 24/7/365. 

Keep your home and possessions safe. Call SERVPRO of Henderson and Boulder City at

702-564-8508

How to get the smell out of your house from a nearby fire

6/26/2017 (Permalink)

As you may know, the smell of smoke travels quickly and sticks to everything it touches. I was in a building that had a fire a week prior and my clothes smelt like a campfire after just 10 minutes. 

If you have been unfortunate enough to be around an area that recently had a fire, your home may also have that same campfire smell to it. 

Here are a few tips to help rid your home of that smell.

Open All The Windows

Opening windows is a mustGet some fresh air in and let the gross air out. You may also think about purchasing a window fan to help circulate air in and out of your home. 

Wipe Everything Down

If you’re close to a fire, or if you had your windows open while a nearby building was on fire, then chances are good you have some soot at least on your windows, if not on your walls as well. Make a solution of a gallon of water, a quarter cup of white vinegar, and a teaspoon of dish soap, and then used it to wipe down all your windows, window sills, and walls on the side of your apartment where the fire was. Small smoke particles have probably settled all those places, and this cuts through it like nothing else. Get the windows with window cleaner as well and mopped your hardwoods.

Wash Everything Washable

Have curtains? Take them down and wash them. Duvet? Wash that. Anything that you can throw into a washing machine you should. Do you own a mattress pad? This may help salvage your mattress.

Plan, Plan, Plan

I highly recommend purchasing renter’s insurance. Most people think of renters insurance just in case someone breaks into your home and don't take into account what could happen in a fire. If you have a policy, a lot of the cleanup would be taken care of.

Small Apartment Catches Fire Due To Fireworks

5/22/2017 (Permalink)

This is the bedroom that the fire loss started in.

Recently we got a call to remediate an apartment. The apartment caught fire one night because kids were playing with fireworks in their room. Thankfully no one was hurt and no others buildings were affected. 

The management company of this apartment called us the day after the accident to get going on the job as time was of the essence. 

The apartment being completely covered in water from the fire department had to be dried before any demolition of affected building materials. The reason we had to dry the structure first is because there were a lot of contents and we couldn't remove anything until the contents were taken care of. 

After doing flood cuts and removing insulation we place equipment to dry the structure before being able to move the contents. 

After the contents and the structure was dry, we were able to completely remove all building material. 

This was a big job that could have been prevented, fire safety is important and make sure you are protected with working smoke alarms and an exit strategy for you and your family. 

Removing Blown in Insulation

3/23/2017 (Permalink)

Removing blown in insulation from attic fire damage

We got called to help out with a fire that happened over night at a customers house in Las Vegas. Not every house is built the same and particularly with this older house it had blown in insulation. Since the smoke happened in the attic all of the insulation was affected and needed to be removed. Blown in insulation is exactly as it sounds, insulation is blown in though cavities of the home through a hose. So the most effective and time efficient way to remove it is to use a machine like the one in the photo that sucks the insulation and blows it into a big bag to be properly sealed for disposal. 

Doing these special jobs require the proper equipment and knowledge. Call the SERVPRO team with the experience and knowledge to handle anything!

Fire Destroys Whole Apartment

3/22/2017 (Permalink)

Photo after a fire damage after all damaged building material was removed

We got this call because we do emergency board up services for fires, breaks ins, and basically any time you need a temporary entry way closed off. Our guys went out, did the board up and talked to the home owner about all the fire restoration services we provide to the Las Vegas area. 

We explained to the customer that we would be able to remove any contents that may have been affected and any that may not have been. Also, that we could removed and affected building material and take care of any odor issues that the smoke may have caused. This loss happened at an apartment complex so with the smoke affecting other residences we were able to help resolve the odor issues as well.

We do it all SERVPRO of Henderson and Boulder City, from emergency late night board ups, helping with odor issues, and complete fire restoration.

Fire Damage Can Lead To Water Damage

2/23/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Damage, Water Damage, Contents Cleaning, Document Drying

There is so much going on in this photo it may be overwhelming. Not as overwhelming as the employees of this office showing up to work and seeing everything destroyed. Not only was this disaster a fire damage, but also suffered extreme water damage from the sprinklers and fire department. 

A job like this can be devastating, the benefits of calling SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City is that we have the technicians and equipment for any size disaster. This particular job required a pack out and full inventory of all materials. Most of the paper work was completely drenched in water, luckily contents restoration is something we do as well. Drying out the structure from the water, and deodorization from the fire. The benefit of SERVPRO is that we can be as small or as large as we need to be.   

Even A Small Fire Can Cause Odors

1/30/2017 (Permalink)

Small fires can leave lasting odors

Fire, smoke and soot damages can create unpleasant and permanent problems if not properly addressed.

As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels through the building leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in those hard to reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and result in periodically resurfacing odors. Unfortunately such damages are often made more severe when unprepared property owners attempt to perform the cleanup themselves.

All of your restorable items in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronic, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and so much more. We at SERVPRO of Henderson and Boulder City do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, we seek out odors and remove them.

Do's and Dont's

1/23/2017 (Permalink)

Fire at an apartment building

When you come home to an unfortunate fire damage it is important to do things to prevent further damage, and don't do things that might cause more damage.

Do:

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

Don't

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

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Henderson/Boulder City Home.

6/2/2016 (Permalink)

Residential Smoke/Soot Damage

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 Henderson/Boulder City 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 – 702-564-8508

How To Make Your Home Fire Safe: A Few Quick Steps Can Go a Long Way

5/11/2015 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Restoration Services from SERVPRO

Protecting your family in your home is important and fire is something nobody wants to think about. Unfortunately, fires can and do happen. The best way to prevent a house fire is to take some precautionary steps and fireproof your home. Knowing how to make your home a little more fire safe not only saves lives and property, but will also make you feel safer and more at ease.

5 Quick Steps to Fire Safety

1. Remove Clutter - Clutter can cause fires, make fires worse and even stop you from getting out of your home during a fire. Get rid of it or at least reduce it.
2. Check Your Smoke Alarms Often - Your smoke alarms will alert you of a fire before you see or smell smoke. Check them at least every six months.
3. Keep A Fire Extinguisher In Your Home - A fire extinguisher can be used to put out some small fires and stop them from spreading. Every home should have one. If you have a multiple story home it's a good idea to have one easily accessible on each level.
4. Never Leave Candles Unattended - Candles can easily catch furniture, papers and even hanging pictures and décor on fire. Never leave your candles unattended.
5. Check Your Wires - Check your electric wires often to make sure they are not rips or shorts. Also make sure your wall sockets are not too full and that all the plugs are secure. A fire safe home will help you and your family feel safer and sleep better at night. Take the time to do it right.

If a fire does happen, first call the fire department. Once the blaze has been put out you can contact the highly trained professionals at SERVPRO 24/7 to service your home and repair and restore after fire damage. We will help make the entire fire damage restoration process simple, straightforward and as painless as possible.