Fire Safety, The Gift That Keeps On Giving This Holiday Season

12/7/2022 (Permalink)

Visit the Redcross,org to learn more about cooking safety!

There’s no doubt that the holidays are filled with joy, and there seems to be a time no better than the present for celebrating with friends and family. With these festivities in mind, it is also critical to be aware of fire safety and the role it plays during our favorite holiday routines.

Whether you’re decorating the Christmas tree, lighting a menorah, or baking cookies, it is always important to understand the fire risks associated with these cheerful traditions.

Always remember to unplug the lights, blow out the candles, and turn off the stove during this holiday season! The American Red Cross Association encourages safety tips for these activities and more on their website. Holiday Fire Safety Tips | American Red Cross

If you are susceptible to any fire damage this holiday season, our 24 Hour Emergency Team at SERVPRO of Broome County East will be more than accessible to service all of your restoration needs!

NYS Burn Ban & Wild Fires

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

New York State puts a burn ban in effect each year, for 2022 it is March 14- May 16th. In New York, Spring can mean a time of increased risk of wildfires, due to outdoor burning of debris and brush. While Homeowners may be well intended with their actions, these fires can quickly get out of control and spread. Spreading wild fires leave disastrous effects to the environment and air quality, not to mention the potential for bodily inquiry and property damage.

Does a Burn Ban mean all residential fires, and campfires are prohibited? No, but there are limitations. According the NYS DEC, Backyard fire pits and campfires less than three feet in height and four feet in length, width, or diameter are allowed. Small cooking fires are allowed. Only charcoal or dry, clean, untreated, or unpainted wood can be burned. 

To learn more about Homeowner Wildfire Safety visit by FIREWISE NY. https://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/42529.html

If you property is affected by fire, smoke or soot damage, please contact SERVPRO, we offer emergency property stabilization, board up, air filtration, and more. We are here to help. 

Soot Damage and All you need to know....

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

Soot is a mixture of very fine black particles created by the product of incomplete combustion. Soot, the most noticeable result from fire, is primarily made up of carbon, but can also contain trace amounts of metals, dust, and chemicals. Soot is different from charcoal and other byproducts of combustion because it is so fine. These tiny particles are often smaller than dust, mold, and dirt particles. 

There are many factors that contribute to both how much and where soot will eventually settle.

In general soot is caused by both the gaseous and solid byproducts of fire traveling through a given space until settling in cooler temperatures. Thus, allowing soot to form in areas like duct vents and walls not initially affected by the fire.  The “fuel” or materials consumed by fire, ie wood, oil based products or proteins alter the fires intensity, lingering smell and the type of soot present after a fire. The temperature, air flow and type of soot are all contributing factors to the varying magnitude and locations of soot development.  For example “Soot tags” or “Carbon Webbings”, can form when synthetic materials burn at high temperatures. As the material burns it becomes charged. Allowing soot to gather and form webbing like features around areas of low circulation. These are most likely to be seen in corners and near the ceiling.

Cleaning up after a fire is already a daunting and stressful task. The additional health risks to tenants, pets and employees make this a job for professionals. As a leader in Fire Mitigation, your local SERVPRO franchise will consider all factors in devising the correct procedure for cleaning your facility. SERVPRO will put an equal emphasis on cleaning the visible mess and all hidden risks associated with your loss. When the safety of your tenants or employees are of concern,  SERVPRO is here to help, 24/7, 365 days a year.

Smoke, Soot, and Odor Removal

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO utilizes several techniques to remove odor from properties. In our line of work many times we are referring to odors remaining from smoke or soot damage. The first step to odor mitigation, is cleaning or removing the source. In the instance of a fire loss, it would mean removing charred structural materials, and cleaning soot and smoke from surfaces.

Often done as a last step, technicians may choose one of several options to remove offensive odors from your property. While many times people first think of fire odors coming from a fire that happened to your own property, smoke odor can also be caused from fires happening at another property nearby or wild fires. Whether the source of the odor inside your home is from outside or inside, experts are trained to safely identify the origin of the problem and eliminate any lingering odors. Here are three techniques that are commonly used by professionals to remove smoke odor.

1. Air Filtration Devices
   Air filtration devices work by circulating the air through a powerful HEPA filter. These filters are an excellent choice for smoke cleaning because they remove 99.97% of particulates from the air. As the particles get trapped, so do the molecules causing the smoke odor.
2. Ozone Machines
   Ozone generators are especially effective with protein-based smoke that is difficult to neutralize. Because these machines release additional ozone into the air, it is not safe to enter the home while this process is taking place. Your smoke damage professional will let you know when it is safe to reenter your residence.
3. Thermal Foggers
   Thermal fogging uses a petroleum-based fragrance to neutralize odors. Smoke from a fire can reach into tiny crevices. Since thermal foggers produce a fine mist in the form of a fog, they can reach just about anywhere odors could be hiding, including inside drawers, closets, or carpet fibers. Once the fog makes contact with the molecule causing the smoke smell, it absorbs it.

With access to special training, knowledge, and nearly 30 years’ experience, calling in a professional like SERVPRO Broome County, Tompkins & Tioga Counties, Elmira/ Chemung County & Watkins Glen/ Schuyler County will be the best choice for guidance on how to handle fire, soot, or smoke odor related issues to your property.

Soot, Carbon Webs, Fire Damage: How we Can HELP!

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

Soot is a mixture of very fine black particles created by the product of incomplete combustion. Soot, the most noticeable result from fire, is primarily made up of carbon, but can also contain trace amounts of metals, dust, and chemicals. Soot is different from charcoal and other byproducts of combustion because it is so fine. These tiny particles are often smaller than dust, mold, and dirt particles. 

There are many factors that contribute to both how much and where soot will eventually settle.

In general soot is caused by both the gaseous and solid byproducts of fire traveling through a given space until settling in cooler temperatures. Thus, allowing soot to form in areas like duct vents and walls not initially affected by the fire.  The “fuel” or materials consumed by fire, ie wood, oil based products or proteins alter the fires intensity, lingering smell and the type of soot present after a fire. The temperature, air flow and type of soot are all contributing factors to the varying magnitude and locations of soot development.  For example “Soot tags” or “Carbon Webbings”, can form when synthetic materials burn at high temperatures. As the material burns it becomes charged. Allowing soot to gather and form webbing like features around areas of low circulation. These are most likely to be seen in corners and near the ceiling.

Besides the unsightly appearance, the small size of soot could pose health risks for humans and pets. 

Cleaning up after a fire is already a daunting and stressful task. The additional health risks to tenants, pets and employees make this a job for professionals. As a leader in Fire Mitigation, your local SERVPRO franchise will consider all factors in devising the correct procedure for cleaning your facility. SERVPRO will put an equal emphasis on cleaning the visible mess and all hidden risks associated with your loss. When the safety of your tenants or employees are of concern,  SERVPRO is here to help, 24/7, 365 days a year.

Fire Safety & Prevention: Know what to do, and who to call!

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

There are many causes of fire damage, electrical, cooking, storm damages, appliance malfunction, wildfires and more. As a home or businesses owner knowing your risks and how to prepare and react is important. Safety is number one when it comes to fire damage, once the safety of every family member or employee is confirmed….the next step is getting  your home or business whole again.  

Here are some items to consider before fire damage impacts your life:

What is the most likely and common cause of Fire Damage?

According to FEMA, the top three causes of fires in homes are cooking, heating equipment, and electrical malfunction.

Following cooking safety recommendations, having furnaces and chimneys inspected by a professional, and knowing your electric is up to date and appliances are properly installed and hooked up can assist in limiting unnecessary risk.

More Fire Prevention Tips can be found here: https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Publications-and-media/Press-Room/Reporters-Guide-to-Fire-and-NFPA/Key-Fire-Safety-Tips

Even if you do everything in your power to minimize your risk, nothing is 100% guaranteed.

What else can be done in advance for fire prevention and safety?

Test your smoke alarms once a month, make a home fire escape plan (and practice it!), and keep fire extinguishers nearby. Having everyone in the household know proper use of the Fire extinguishers will be helpful should they ever need to be used.

To learn More about this Visit: https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/safety-topics/emergency-preparedness/fire

If I have a fire at my home or business, and everyone is safe…what do I do next?

SERVPRO can assist in the next steps to make your property whole again. Our Team of trained professionals can assist with structure stabilization, board ups, and roof tarps. Stabilizing the structure helps with preventing theft and ensure people do not enter the property while there are safety issues present. SERVPRO can provide a scope of work and work with your insurance carrier to establish a game plan for cleaning, inventorying of affected contents, removal of affected building materials and contents, and mitigating the loss to save all that we can. Whether fire, smoke, soot or odor affected one room or an entire property, SERVPRO can provide the solution necessary and act quickly to save time and money in your time of need.

SERVPRO is a 24 hours Emergency Service company, and we will be there when you need us most. Call us locally for all of your emergency service needs, questions, or free quotes.

Dryer Fire Culprits

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association, more than 15,000 home fires per year are caused by clothes dryers. And MOST of these could have been prevented, according to firefighters. The solution? The right products and maintenance.

Unfortunately, dryer fires happen every day. Here are two things you as a homeowner can do to help prevent dryer fires:

One: Clean the lint filter. After every use. Teach your children how to clean it. Everyone in the house should master this super-simple preventative measure.

Two: Have the ducts cleaned annually, because lint still gets past the filter even when clean. Professional duct-cleaners can spot additional dangers, and possibly save your life.

How do dryer fires happen?

Culprit #1: Lint.

Lint is the leading cause of dryer fires. It’s highly flammable, and it’s everywhere. Lint naturally accumulates in your dryer and dryer exhaust system. This buildup makes the dryer work harder for each load and the lint can work its way into the heating element, creating a possible fire hazard. Additionally extra long exhaust hosing and unnecessary elbows can hinder airflow and create restrictive areas for lint to build up.

Culprit #2: Crushed Hoses.

When you push your dryer back to the wall, you may end up accidentally crushing the exhaust hose. When the dryer can’t move the air, the resulting blowback of lint is dangerous. To protect the duct, consider using a dryer box or simply moving the dryer further from the wall. This can prevent bends, folds and dents. Allowing the hot air to move safely through the ducting and out of the house, where it belongs.

Culprit #3: Animals.

External venting creates pre-built “homes” for our animal friends, and they’re more than happy to move in. A cheap plastic or louvered external venting termination can be inviting for nest builders. When the duct is clogged with a nest, the lint can’t blow past, increasing the danger of fire. A good exterior closure like a powder coated, galvanized steel dryer wall vent will deter animals while providing a sleek look for your home.

Unfortunately even the most proactive measures may not be enough. Dryers and other household appliances can still unexpectedly fail, causing damage to your home and personal items. Smoke damage, soot and even the smell after a fire can be incredibly hard to take care of. In the event that you experience a fire situation, call SERVPRO. Your local SERVPRO franchise is highly trained and ready to help. As a 24 hour emergency fire and water clean-up and restoration company, SERVPRO can assess your loss, put a plan in action and help to restore your home and life back to normal. “Like it never even happened.”

Put a Freeze on Winter Fires

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Winter holidays are a time for family and friends to get together, but that also means a greater risk for fires.

• Between 2013-2017, U.S Fire Departments responded to an average of 160 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. These fires cause and average of $10 million in direct property damage annually.
• Of those fires, 44% were the result of lighting equipment and/or electrical distribution.
• One quart of Christmas tree fires are the result of some type of heat source, such as a candle, that was too close to the tree.

While trees may seem like the main culprit of home fires, the U.S Fire Department responded to an average of 780 home structure fires per year that began with JUST decorations, which excludes Christmas trees.

• These fires caused an annual average of $12 million in direct property damage.
• On average, 22 home candle fires were reported each day.
• While thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, Christmas Eve and Christmas day follow right behind.

While these risks are scary, there are plenty of ways to minimize these risks, such as placement of the tree (away from fireplaces and sunny windows) and keeping the tree watered thoroughly.

As the holiday season moves into full swing, SERVPRO reminds homeowners to take common sense precautions based on a clear understanding of the potential danger to help prevent holiday traditions from turning into a holiday nightmare. For more fire prevention tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please call us at (607) 722-2262.

www.nfpa.com

Turkeys shouldn't be terrifying

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

Turkey Fryer Fire

The Thanksgiving holiday should be a day of relaxation and great food, but sometimes preparing that big bird can turn into a disaster very quickly. Deep frying turkeys have recently become an increasingly popular way to cook that grand meal but come with an increased likelihood of injury and destruction.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, deep fryers cause more than $15 million in property damage each year. It’s important to carefully examine the risks of using a deep fryer to cook a turkey, and know some of the main causes of these accidents.

1. As the turkey is placed in the hot oil, the oil can spill over.
2. Fryers can easily be tipped over.
3. Most fryers do not have an automatic thermostat control, therefore the oil can overheat and combust.
4. One of the United States' top safety consulting companies refuse to safety certify any turkey fryers due to the increasing numbers of fires and burn injuries related to their use.

While these all seem scary, there are many ways to still get that crisp turkey skin while keeping yourself, others, and structures safe.

Never use a fryer in a garage! Always use the fryer outdoors and away from flammable materials and structures. Never leave the fryer unattended, and keep children away from the fryer even if it’s not in use. Make sure that the turkey is completely thawed before lowering it into the oil. It’s imperative that you keep a fire extinguisher nearby, and never use water to put out a grease fire.

All of the team members here at SERVPRO of Broome County, Tompkins & Tioga Counties and SERVPRO of Elmira/Chemung and Watkins Glen/Schuyler Counties want to keep you safe during the holiday seasons and are here for you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Give us a call at 607-722-2262.

Fireline Ultrasonic Contents Cleaning Systems

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Contents Cleaning

Have you or has someone you know experienced a fire or smoke damage to their home or business? Let us shed a little light on the system that SERVPRO of Broome, Tompkins & Tioga Counties uses to bring your contents back to new. The Fireline Ultrasonic Contents Cleaning System is an assembly line process to quickly clean customer's contents following fire or smoke damage or other related disaster. The Fireline's systematic approach to contents restoration has emerged as the industry model and continues to set the standard for efficiency. 

At SERVPRO of Broome, Tompkins & Tioga Counties we can now safely restore instead of replace your damaged contents. The Fireline System can clean to near pristine condition, much of your personal and sentimental contents. You would never know that your contents had been through a fire or smoke loss. Having the ability to restore your contents will provide you not only with peace of mind, but a timely turnout of your belongings and a cost savings for the client as well as the insurance company. 

While utilizing the Fireline System, our expertise in contents restoration enables us to offer a total solution that provides increased customer satisfaction. Employees that work in the Fireline Systems Center are all trained and certified to work in restoring contents as a result of a fire, smoke, water or mold loss. The staff at SERVPRO of Broome, Tompkins & Tioga Counties is highly trained in property damage restoration. From the initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility to industry certifications such as the Clean Trust (IICRC), rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property and contents. 

When choosing SERVPRO of Broome, Tompkins & Tioga Counties, you are choosing a company who understands the stress and worry that comes with devastation. Having our employees at your door with understanding, along with the knowledge and training to back their work will be invaluable.

Most Common Fire Hazards

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Overloaded power strip

Fire Damage Cleanup & Restoration is one of our primary services. No matter the season, a fire can begin by one of the most common ways listed below. Stay aware and know what to look for according to Wikipedia.

• Kitchen fires from unattended cooking, grease fires/chip pan fires
• Electrical systems that are overloaded, poorly maintained or defective
• Combustible storage areas with insufficient protection
• Combustibles near equipment that generates heat, flame, or sparks
• Candles and other open flames
• Smoking (Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, lighters, etc.)
• Equipment that generates heat and utilizes combustible materials
• Flammable liquids and aerosols
• Flammable solvents (and rags soaked with solvent) placed in enclosed trash cans
• Fireplace chimneys not properly or regularly cleaned
• Cooking appliances - stoves, ovens
• Heating appliances - fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, furnaces, boilers, portable heaters, solid fuels
• Household appliances - clothes dryers, curling irons, hair dryers, refrigerators, freezers, boilers
• Chimneys that concentrate creosote 
• Electrical wiring in poor condition
• Leaking/ defective batteries
• Personal ignition sources - matches, lighters
• Electronic and electrical equipment
• Exterior cooking equipment - barbecue

Hoping these help you and your family stay fire safe. Know what causes fires, so you can avoid them.

If you experience a fire in your home and need assistance with the clean up & restoration, please call us. We are always here and happy to help!

Specialty Services for Police & Fire Departments

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

Fire fighter

SERVPRO is a 24/7 Emergency Service Company for Fire/Water, Mold and Specialty Cleanup Services.

We work hand in hand with our communities first responders and can assist Police & Fire Departments with many services. They include:

1-4-8: Timely response, communication & action. 

Emergency Board Up: SERVPRO offers assistance for roofs, windows, doors & Structures following a fire loss or vandalism.

Restore vs. Replace: Our goal is to salvage restorable personal items to reduce recovery time & costs.

Bio-hazard & Vandalism: SERVPRO offers cleaning services for police stations, cells & emergency vehicles.

Deodorization: Proper removal of smoke residues & deposits can help prevent permanent content damage & resurfacing odors. 

Fire Department Turnout gear & Police Uniform Cleaning: We are certified under NFPA 1851 guidelines to clean, restore and visually inspect full fire gear ensembles and PPE, especially following heavy soiling. Our Esporta wash system can disinfect up to 99.9% for odor, mold, viruses, bacteria & bloodborne pathogens.

We are locally owned and operated and have been serving our community and surrounding counties for over 26 years. Let us bring our top notch service to you in your time of need and show you why SERVPRO is the #1 nationally recognized cleanup & restoration company.

Call us today to start the relationship!

(607) 722-2262

Steps to Restore Fire, Smoke and Soot Damage

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

This is a closeup photo of smoke damage above an entryway walking into a dining room.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to restore your home or business after a fire? Below are the detailed steps we would take to make it "Like it never even happened." 

• Step 1- Structural Cleaning 

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. Your experienced local SERVPRO Franchise Professional will pretest to determine the extent of damage, and then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different surfaces found in your structure. Depending on the amount of soot, your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional may even be able to reduce the cost of recovery by cleaning lighter soot deposits found on some surfaces, eliminating the expense incurred with repainting or refinishing. In other cases, SERVPRO will clean to "prepare for painting." This process deodorizes and ensures the new paint will adhere properly to the surface. 

• Step 2- Contents Cleaning

All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can provide wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac and much more. Finally, SERVPRO can provide an inventory list of all "to be claimed" items if requested. 

• Step 3- Deodorization 

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals provide specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out the sources of the odor and remove them. Ask your SERVPRO Franchise Professional to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

When it comes to your home or business, getting you back to normal quickly is our first priority. Trust the most recognized restoration vendor in the world, trust the SERVPRO professionals! 

Your local SERVPRO is only a phone call away, call (607) 722-2262 if you experience a situation where we can help. When fire takes control of your life, we help you take it back.

Cleaning Fire & Smoke Damage

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

Ceiling Cleaning of smoke damage on an aerial lift.

SERVPRO Professionals are highly trained and have the resources necessary for cleaning smoke and fire damage inside homes and businesses. Not every smoke damage is the same. SERVPRO determines the best cleaning method to use based on the type of smoke that was produced during the fire. The type of smoke residue is determined by the origin of the fire, and what was burned during the fire. There are 4 main types of Smoke Residue:

Wet Smoke (Plastic & Rubber): Low heat, smoldering pungent Odor, stick, smeary, and smoke webs. This type of smoke is difficult to clean. If not cleaned properly more damage could be created.

Dry Smoke (Paper & Wood): Fast burning, high temperatures, hear rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Smoke: This is produced by evaporation of material rather than fire. This is basically invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. Commonly seen with cooking fires.

Fuel Oil Smoke (Furnace Puff backs): Caused by burning oil, and oil-based substances. This smoke can damage furniture and flooring if not taken care of quickly.

Other Types: SERVPRO specializes in all types of cleanup including Fire Extinguisher dust and finger printing powder.

Don’t wait. If your home or business is affected by fire, smoke, or even smoke odor- call SERVPRO. We will be there!

Fire Support Services: Board up & Containment

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides a variety of services. Our Team will not only so the cleanup and restoration of fire and smoke within your home or business, we can assist with support efforts before even starting. With a wide variety of resources at our finger tips we can help from the moment the fire is extinguished and everyone is safe.

We are offer Support services such as:

• Emergency board-up and site containment services: securing the property/premises and preserving the scene from further fire and smoke damage.
• Moving of materials, removal of debris and glass in order to help secure safe entry for clients and authorized personnel in the fire damage restoration process.
• Provide lighting, dumpsters, emergency power, etc.
• Application of board-up if required to reduce visual eyesore of burned structures.

Suffering a fire loss to your home or business is stressful. You may not know where to start or who to call. As a preferred vendor of the insurance industry and a trusted vendor in our community, choose SERVPRO, we’ll be there to help.  

Holiday Decorating Safety

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Keep your holiday season free of fire damage!

Be safe this season! Holiday lights and decorations are festive and raise the holiday spirit, but if they are not used properly they can wreak havoc on your holidays! The U.S. Fire Administration says that one of every three home Christmas tree fire is caused by electrical problems. Although these fires may not be as common they are more likely to be serious.

Here are a couple things to keep in mind from the American Red Cross while you are getting your home or business festive!

1. Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed
2. Place Christmas Trees, and other holiday decorations at least 3 feet away from heat sources- fire places, portable heaters, and other heat vents.
3. Make sure that light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords.

If fire or smoke damages your property, call in a professional to assist in the clean up! We will walk you through our fire restoration process and make it "Like it never even happened."

Did you know we can restore damaged documents?

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Damaged Documents

It can be overwhelming when unexpected fire or water damage affects your school, business, home, or facility. It is important to first make sure everyone is safe when a disaster happens. Once safety is insured and the damage is done….it’s time to assess and work towards restoring the property.

When it comes to assessing damage, some of the most valuable items may just be documents, photos, or books. These items aren’t always lost, we can help. Document Restoration is another service our TEAM can provide.

The SERVPRO® Document Restoration Facility Offers:

• Innovation: we use the latest vacuum freeze-drying method, as well as gamma irradiation technology for sterilizing

• Secure: managed by HIPPA Master-certified technicians, under 24/7 surveillance

• Digital: we use a computerized inventory system for digitizing your documents

• Flexible capacity - we can accommodate large commercial losses or small residential jobs

• Full Service: we offer a range of services including drying, cleaning/disinfecting, re-jacketing, digitizing, and deodorization

If you or your facility is in need of Document restoration services please contact us today and we would be happy to help you restore your valuable documents.

Homeowner Electrical Safety: Fire Prevention

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

According to data from the NFPA, fire departments responded to an average of 45,000 home fires caused by electrical failure or malfunction every year between 2010-2014. In fact, home electrical fires are the most common fire in a home accounting for nearly 60% of all fires.

While you can’t prevent all electrical fires from occurring, there are a lot of things you can do to reduce the risk of an electrical fire from happening at your Binghamton home. Below the NFPA will cover some electrical safety tips you can follow that may help prevent an electrical fire from happening to you.

Protect Children from Exposed Outlets

If you have young children in your home, it’s important that you use child-proof outlet covers on unused receptacles. You can find outlet covers and tamper resistant outlets at your local hardware store. If you replace your standard outlets with tamper resistant outlets, be sure to hire a professional electrician to install them. Another tip to keep young kids away from outlets is to block access to the outlets using furniture like a couch or table or shelving.

Don’t Overload Outlets

Do you have an outlet that is powering a couple power strips and a dozen electronics? This can be dangerous. Don’t overload your outlets with too many powered electronics or appliances. Try to move some to another outlet. If you aren’t using an electrical appliance, like a blender or toaster, unplug it when you don’t need it. Overloading an outlet can trip the circuit or worse, it can lead to a fire.

Turn Off Appliances Before Turning Circuit Back On

If you do experience a tripped circuit from overloading an outlet or a power surge, be sure to turn off any appliances that the circuit is powering. Also, unplug anything that is powered by the circuit. Once you have flipped the circuit back on, you can then turn on the appliances or the electronics that the circuit is powering.

Check Cords and Plugs

Over time cords can kink, tear and fray. A small fray in a cord can cause sparks which can lead to a fire pretty quickly. Make it a habit of always taking a look at any cords or power outlets that you are near. Not only make sure that the cords are in good condition but that the plugs are plugged into the outlets all the way. A loose plug on an outlet can also cause sparks or a short which can cause an electrical fire.

Light Bulb Safety

Light bulbs are the most commonly used electrical item in a home. With light bulbs located in every room of your home, it’s important to follow a few tips to ensure they don’t become a fire hazard. Always use the recommended wattage of bulb for each fixture. Using a higher wattage bulb can cause the fixture to overheat. Be careful with light bulbs near curtains or other fabric. The fabric can be blown on top of the bulb which can quickly lead to a fire.

If You Should Suffer a Fire, Contact the Professionals

Following the above tips should help reduce the risk of a house fire, but it can’t eliminate the risk. If you should suffer from a house fire, call the fire professionals at SERVPRO of Broome County East. They have the knowledge, expertise, and equipment to handle any size disaster.

Just call and we will be ready. We offer emergency fire board up services and free estimates on all services!

Risks of not Cleaning your Dryer Vents

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

According to FEMA, failure to clean home dryers causes 34% of home dryer fires. Home dryer fires cause $35 million in property loss and can even cause injury or death. To reduce the risk of these fires happening in your or your insured’s home or business, SERVPRO can help clean dryer vents and ducts that may have lint buildup. Other tips for keeping your dryer vents clean from the National Fire Protection Agency include cleaning the lint filter before and after each load and making sure the outdoor vent flap will open and is not restricted by snow, a bird’s nest or other potential obstacles. For more information on cleaning dryer vents contact your local SERVPRO. Your local SERVPRO Team is available 24 hours a day, do not hesitate to call, day or night you are guaranteed to reach our office-just call 607-722-2262.

Restore Vs. Replace Q & A

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Broome County East is the area’s leading mitigation vendor and a preferred vendor of many insurance companies. When we are faced with homes, businesses, or contents affected by fire, water, or mold damage our goal is to first try and restore the item(s) or materials back to preloss condition compared to replacing the items.

Q. What is water and fire mitigation?

A. When we are providing water or fire mitigation services, we are providing a service in which we reduce the affects of fire and water damage to the property. This is done through a quick response, use of effective drying techniques, and cleaning and restoration.

Q. How can the “restore vs. replace” concept affect Insurance?

A. When a structure or contents are restored to pre loss condition, it eliminates or minimizes costly repairs. This will ultimately lower the cost of the claim to the insurance company.

Q. How can the “restore vs. replace” concept affect a business owner or homeowner who had a fire or water loss?

A. When we are able to restore items for a customer rather than replace them, it gives the customer peace of mind knowing they can have their own property back. Re-construction of a property takes more time to complete, and restoration can return the customer to normalcy faster. The quicker a customer is returned to normalcy the more likely they will be satisfied with claim resolution.

Cooking Fire Safety: NFPA

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Cooking fires can be dangerous and quickly get out of control. Please see these valuable cooking safety tips and statistics provided by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

What you should know about home cooking safety

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Cooking fires by the numbers

• Based on 2012-2016 annual averages:

• Cooking equipment is the leading cause of home* fires and fire injuries, causing 48% of home fires that resulted in 21% of the home fire deaths and 45% of the injuries.
• Two-thirds (66%) of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.
• Clothing is the item first ignited in less than 1% of these fires, but clothing ignitions lead to 15% of the home cooking equipment fire deaths.
• Ranges or cooktops account for almost two-thirds (63%) of home cooking fire incidents.
• Unattended equipment is a factor in one-third (32%) of reported home cooking fires and half (45%) of the associated deaths.
• Frying dominates the cooking fire problem.
• Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve.  

Safety considerations for cooking with oil

• Sources: NFPA's Home Cooking Fires and Home Structure Fires reports. * Homes include one- and two-family homes, apartments (regardless of ownership), and manufactured housing.
• Always stay in the kitchen when frying on the stovetop.
• Keep an eye on what you fry. If you see wisps of smoke or the oil smells, immediately turn off the burner and/or carefully remove the pan from the burner. Smoke is a danger sign that the oil is too hot.
• Heat the oil slowly to the temperature you need for frying or sautéing.
• Add food gently to the pot or pan so the oil does not splatter.
• Always cook with a lid beside your pan. If you have a fire, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Do not remove the cover because the fire could start again. Let the pan cool for a long time. Never throw water or use a fire extinguisher on the fire.
• If the fire does not go out or you don’t feel comfortable sliding a lid over the pan, get everyone out of your home. Call the fire department from outside. 

When the fire is out and your family is safe, it is time for cleanup to begin. Please contact our office for a FREE estimate to restore your property and belongings. 607-722-2262.

*Information from NFPA*

https://www.nfpa.org/

Fire Damage: Types of Smoke Residue

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know there are different types of smoke? There is “Wet” Smoke and “Dry” Smoke. What is burning in your home or business determines the type of smoke residue that is left. The different types of smoke are Wet Smoke (Plastic & Rubber), Dry Smoke (Paper & Wood), Protein Fire Residue (Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire), Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace Puff Back), Other Types of Smoke (Tear gas, Fingerprint Powder, and Fire Extinguisher residue).

Our SERVPRO franchise is highly trained in how clean and remediate fire losses depending on the type of smoke. SERVPRO is also trained in how to assess smoke damage. For example, smoke is unique in its behavior as it gravitates to cooler areas and upper levels, smoke seeps through holes around piping and can go floor to floor between walls and flooring.

Dealing with any smoke or fire damage to your home or business, no matter how minor or severe, can be stressful and frustrating. If you experience a fire loss, and have issues with linger odor, wall discoloration, or even severe damage call in SERVPRO, we will be there to provide a free quote and plan of action to restore your property "Like it never even happened."

Fire Safety & Prevention

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

We tend to think about Fire Prevention each fall during Fire Prevention Month…. however fire can affect, homes, businesses, and communities at any time. Always keep in mind how to keep your property safest during a fire, especially by having working smoke alarms!

According to the National Fire Protection Association, survey data shows that the public has many misconceptions about smoke alarms, which can put them at increased risk in the event of a home fire.  In an effort to inform the members of our community, SERVPRO and the National Fire Protection Association are offering several tips and information regarding your smoke detectors:

-Check how many years you've had your smoke alarm for- if it's after 10 years its time for a new one.  If you are not sure how old your smoke alarm is, the date of the manufacture on the back of the alarm will tell you.

-Hardwired smoke alarms operate 94% of the time while battery powered alarms operate 80% of the time. However, if smoke alarms completely fail to operate, it could mean batteries are missing, disconnected or dead.

-As the National Fire Protection Association specifically recommend, an ionization smoke alarm is generally more responsive to flaming fires and a photoelectric smoke alarm is generally more responsive to smoldering fires. For the best protection, or where extra time is needed to awaken or assist others, both types of alarms, or combination ionization and photoelectric alarms are recommended.

Keep safe this week and every week. SERVPRO will always be there for you.

Grill Safety this Summer

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

Summer is the time for picnics, barbeques and plenty of delicious food; however do you know all of the safety measures you should take with your grill? Three out of five households own a gas grill. Each year an average of 8,900 home fires are caused by grilling and about 16,000 patients went to the emergency room because of an injury involving a grill. Wow, that’s a lot. 

Most of these injuries and fires could have easily been avoided. So just in case, here are some tips on how to avoid injuries and fires while also enjoying those yummy summer-time meals:

• Keep your grill away from your home and deck railings.
• In order to safely turn on your grill, follow these steps:
  • Open the lid before turning on the grill
  • Turn on the propane tank
  • Turn on the knobs of the grill burner
  • Push ignition button (if you have one)
• If your grill doesn’t ignite, let gas dissipate for at least 5 minutes before igniting again. 
• To turn off your grill safely, turn the gas tank off first in order to keep excess gas from leaking out.

And in case of fire damage, you know who to call: SERVPRO!

Soft Contacts: Restore, Don't Replace!

4/18/2018 (Permalink)

When it comes to restoration, many people focus on the structure of the house or building itself. Browse around our website for even 15 seconds and you can rest easy knowing that this is our specialty. However, after the initial panic of fire and water/flood damage has eased, your next natural question is probably, “but what about all of my stuff?”

Meet our Esporta Wash System. By using Esporta Technologies we have been able to make the restoration process effortless and stress free from start to finish (Even for “your stuff”.)

Traditional Dry Cleaners typically can restore: 40% of soft contents

The Esporta Machines used by SERVPRO typically can restore: 85% of soft contents

Using an advanced system of hydraulic action our machines can force both organic and inorganic contaminants out of all your valuable personal belongings.

So what can be restored you ask? You name it! Purses, comforters, couch cushions, sports gear, boots, high school letterman jackets, clothing, linens, Valentine ’s Day teddy bears, and even your favorite pair of socks with the sharks on them.

In the past these items typically ended up in the landfill, but today this technology has literally revolutionized life after an emergency. We have saved our clients time, money and peace of mind after a loss.

Learn More:

https://www.esporta.ca/blog/blog/post/14/THE_FUTURE_OF_SOFT_CONTENTS_RESTORATION/

DYK: Behavior of Fire & Smoke

12/5/2017 (Permalink)

Image By: http://londonfirefighters.ca/2017/02/

Fires can be caused by many things from candles, wood stoves, electrical malfunction, cooking/ grease fires, space heaters, and more.

Did you know there are different types of smoke & fire residue? Not only that, but smoke has unique behavior that impacts the way your property is affected by smoke.

There are two types of smoke: wet and dry. Depending on what is burning determines the type of smoke residue that is produced.

The various types of smoke/ residues are:

• Wet Smoke: Plastic and Rubber
• Dry Smoke: Paper and Wood
• Protein Fire Residue: Prodiced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
• Fuel Oil Soot: Furnace Puffback
• Other Types: Tear gas, finger print powder, and fire extinguisher dust.

Behavior of Smoke:

• Smoke migrates to cooler areas, and upper levels of structures
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems and seeps through holes that pipes go through
• The type of smoke can greatly impact the restoration process

No matter the type of fire loss or residue left, SERVPRO professionals are highly trained in understanding the behavior of smoke and cleanup processes to best utilize during fire restoration services.

Keep Fall Fire Free!

10/26/2017 (Permalink)

This Fall be aware and fire concious of everyday hazards, even of decorations!

Follow these tips to help ensure you stay safe and fire-free:

• Keep fall decorations like dried flowers & cornstalks away from any heat source and open flame.
• Keep emergency exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks an escape route.
• Teach Children to stay away from open flames. Be sre they know how to stop, drop and roll if clothing catches fire.
• Remember safety first when choosing a Halloween costume. Consider avoiding billowing fabric.
• It is safest to use a flashlight or battery operated candle in a Jack-O-Lantern. If using a candle place it away from anything that can burn and out of the way doorsteps, walkways and yards.

Facts provided by nfpa.org

Ozone Deodorization: How does it work?

5/23/2017 (Permalink)

The use of ozone can be a very effective way of removing odor from a property. SERVPRO may commonly use this method following fire damage cleaning, skunk odor to the property, mold or full property cleaning. SERVPRO will provide a free estimate of your situation and decide if Ozone will be the best and most appropriate method of odor removal. 

When it comes to successful deodorization the first step is to clean/remove or fix what is causing the odor, for example the best chance of success would be to clean the fire damage first, fix a leaking pipe that is causing a musty odor, or remove the garbage from an area before starting the ozone process. It will be crucial to remove items emitting odor.

How it works: Basically, ozone removes odor by destroying the molecules, bacteria, and spores that cause unpleasant smells.  Ozone (O3) is a highly reactive molecule and is very quick to chemically react with particles that it comes into contact with in the air and on surfaces.  The extra oxygen atom in the ozone attaches itself to other molecules, chemically changing their structure to create non-offensive molecules – eliminating the smell. *Ozonesolutions.com

For more questions regarding our deodorization methods please feel free to call our office and we would be happy to help!

Property Stabilization

5/2/2017 (Permalink)

Following a disaster, whether it’s after a fire, storm or other structural disaster, ensuring the safety of you and your family, or employees if the property is a business is priority #1. Once safety is insured, stabilization of the property is next. In many cases stabilization can mean boarding up damaged property. This is a burden that no one should ever have to go through- especially if it is your property that has been damaged.

Boarding up damaged property incorrectly could cause secondary damages such as moisture or animal intrusion, making the situation even worse. The process of boarding up after an unexpected damage can also be as dangerous as the damage itself.

Our team of SERVPRO professionals can board up the damaged property and mitigate and remediate the original damage, providing you with peace of mind while helping making it “Like it never even happened.”

Dryer Vents & Fire Prevention

4/7/2017 (Permalink)

According to FEMA, failure to clean home dryers casues 34% of home dryer fires. Home dryer fires cause $35 Million in property loss and even can cause injury or death. To reduce the risk of these fires happening in your own home or business, SERVRPO can help clean dryer vents and ducts that may have lint buildup.

Other tips for keeping your dryer vents clean from the National Fire Protection Agency include cleaning the lint filter befroe and after each each load, and making sure the outdoor vent flap will openand is not restricted by snow, a birds nest or other potential obsticles.

If your home or business is ever affected by fire or smoke damage due to a dryer fire, call us in for a free estimate. Our trained professionals will work with you and your insurance to asses the damage and come up with a plan to get you back up and running as soon as possible.

*Featured Article from the April SERVPRO Restoration Newsline

Smoke Alarm Safety

2/6/2017 (Permalink)

In our line of work, seeing fire damaged property is part of the day to day operation. For those actually experiencing the fire loss, it can be a very stressful, scary, or worse. We are there to help in the aftermath of the fire, but what can we do to limit our personal risk? Properly placed Smoke alarms are the key to limiting fire deaths and injury.

When Fires start, they spread quickly, and alarms are needed to give you and your family warning and time to get out. The entire home should be evacuated in less than 2 minutes!

Here is some of what you need to know about Smoke Alarms:

• A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. 


• Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound. 


• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.


• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.


• There are two kinds of alarms. Ionization smoke alarms are quicker to warn about flaming fires. Photoelectric alarms are quicker to warn about smoldering fires. It is best to use of both types of alarms in the home.


• When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside.


• Replace all smoke alarms in your home every 10 years

Find out more on how to protect your family and your home. http://www.nfpa.org/

Holiday Decorating Safety

12/6/2016 (Permalink)

Be safe this season! Holiday lights and decorations are festive and raise the holiday spirit, but if they are not used properly they can wreck havoc on your holidays! The U.S. Fire Administration says that one of every three home Christmas tree fire is caused by electrical problems. Although these fires may not be as common they are more likely to be serious.

Here are a couple things to keep in mind from the American Red Cross while you are getting your home or business festive!

1. Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed
2. Place Christmas Trees, and other holiday decorations at least 3 feet away from heat sources- fire places, portable heathers, and other heat vents.
3. Make sure that light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords.

If fire or smoke damages your property, call in a professional to assist in the clean up! We will walk you through our fire restoration process and make it like it never even happened!

ARC Home Fire Preparedness Campaign

11/28/2016 (Permalink)

The American Red Cross is in full swing of their home fire safety campaign! SERVPRO of Broome, Tompkins & Tioga Counties, along with SERVPRO Industries fully support this amazing initiative. The goal is to have the amount of fire related deaths lowered by 25%. The American Red Cross is educating homeowners and installing smoke alarms for free to anyone who contacts them. To have one installed in your home contact your local American Red Cross Chapter.

http://www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/prevent-home-fire#About

Home Fire risk is the highest in the months of December, January and February. We want to remind homeowners to be aware of their risk and avoid preventable fires this season! Not every fire is a total loss, and when it comes to smoke, soot, and content damage we are the professionals ready to help. We offer free estimates, and offer 24 hours response for when you need us most!

Thanksgiving Cooking Safety!

11/21/2016 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving has the highest number of reported cooking fires in the U.S., which is about 3x the average of any other day. We would like to keep your family safe this holiday season by sharing some cooking safety tips to avoid being part of this overwhelming statistic! According to the NFPA here’s what you need to know!

• Keep an eye on what you fry
• Be alert when cooking
• Keep things that can catch fire away from cooking area

Our team has significant experience in clean up of smoke & soot damage from cooking related fires, and even clean up of fire extinguisher dust used to put out a protein fire. Cooking related fires are known for leaving behind a very pungent odor and a virtually invisible film that can discolor paint. If you have ever experienced this is your home, call our local number we can provide a free estimate for cleanup, deodorization, or repair services. Call our local number 607-722-2262.

http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/top-causes-of-fire/cooking

Home Fire Escape Planning

11/8/2016 (Permalink)

Every home should have a fire escape plan. According to the American Red Cross, homeowners shouldn’t just have a plan of escape for a fire but have a plan and practice it twice a year. Home fires cannot be predicted and can happen to anyone. If you’re making preparations to prevent home fire, you should also prepare for what you and your family would do if you have one. Here are some tips from the American Red Cross in making a plan for your home.

• All members of the household should know two ways to get out of every room.
• Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas or homes on the second floor or above. Learn how to use them and store them near the window.
• Pick a place outside for everyone to meet and make sure everyone knows where it is.
• Practice your home fire drill until everyone in the household can do it in less than two minutes.
• Practice waking up to smoke alarms, low crawling and meeting outside. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
• Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

http://www.redcross.org/news/article/A-Home-Fire-Escape-Plan-Can-Save-Your-Life

Once the safety for your family is established, the next steps to come will be home recovery. SERVPRO® will work with you from widow and roof board up to assisting with the final stages of move back & rebuild.

Ultrasonic Cleaning

11/3/2016 (Permalink)

A fire in your home can cause a devastation that carries distress and anguish over anything lost in the aftermath. However, SERVPRO has the ability to restore your home and many of your items that appear to be ruined. We’ve now applied the Fireline system of Ultrasonic Cleaning so we can repair and preserve the things important to you! It’s an assembly line system so your things will be taken care of and packaged individually. Our team at SERVPRO want to help you save more and replace less.   

If you have a fire emergency or are concerned about the safety of your home, call us at (607) 722-2262. We’re here for you 24/7 and your safety is our number one priority!

Fires: Be Ready and Stay Safe

10/18/2016 (Permalink)

Fire disasters in the United States reached over 1.3 million in 2015.  According to the National Fire Protection Association, 501,500 were structure fires, 204,500 were vehicle fires and 639,500 were outside and other fires.  Every 86 seconds a home structure fire was reported.  SERVPRO is set on greatly decreasing these frightening numbers by supplying you and your family with important information.

The NFPA lists several causes for a home structure fire.  Based on this list, we would like to remind you of the following:

-Using cooking and heating equipment, make sure to turn off any item you are no longer using

-Using clothes dryers and washing machines, remember to clean out the lint filter

-Any equipment that involves ignition, including grill fires, should be completely turned off

-Fireplace and candles, extinguish both when leaving the room

Our team at SERVPRO hope you remember the list above and be cautious- your safety is our number one priority.

For more information regarding fire statistics and potential hazards, visit: http://www.nfpa.org/news-and-research/fire-statistics-and-reports/fire-statistics/fires-in-the-us

What To Do In A Fire Emergency

10/10/2016 (Permalink)

Fires can spread fast and cause immediate damage, but we at SERVPRO are here to help restore your home.  As with all natural disasters, you and your family should first assess the situation and determine if it is safe to stay in your home. If you decide to stay in your home, SERVPRO would like to offer pertinent information to keep you safe while we are on our way to help.

After a fire, make sure to limit movement in your home, as soot particles can get embedded into upholstery and carpets.  We recommend placing clean towels or old linens on any rugs or upholstery. In this regard, keeping your hands clean will prevent further soiling to upholstery, walls and woodwork. As we mention on our website, if you have houseplants wash them on both sides of the leaves.  We also suggest changing the HVAC filter and taping double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

However, there are several activities you should not to before we arrive. These include attempting to wash any walls or painted surfaces, or shampoo carpet or upholstery.  Avoid cleaning electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water.  You should also avoid using any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.  If the ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fixtures, as the wiring may be damaged.

Once SERVPRO arrives, we will handle the rest. We'll be there no matter the disaster- your safety is our main priority.

Fire Prevention Week

10/10/2016 (Permalink)

For over nine decades we, as a nation, have taken part in Fire Prevention Week. This tradition occurs through the week of October 9th, to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire and the commonly forgotten Peshtigo fire of 1871. It's our duty to uphold the efforts of the brave individuals that risked their lives with their acts of heroism during those disasters.  SERVPRO would like to be an active participant in a week dedicated to preventing the start of another infamous blaze.

Every year the National Fire Protection Association creates themes for Fire Prevention Week. Last year was Hear The Beep Where You Sleep. Every Bedroom Needs a Working Smoke Alarm!  This year we're observing: "Don't Wait, Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years." As these themes suggest, a simple way to protect you and your family begins with the fire alarm. According to the National Fire Protection Association, survey data shows that the public has many misconceptions about smoke alarms, which can put them at increased risk in the event of a home fire.  In an effort to inform the members of our community, SERVPRO and the National Fire Protection Association are offering several tips and information regarding your smoke detectors:

-Check how many years you've had your smoke alarm for- if it's after 10 years its time for a new one.  If you are not sure how old your smoke alarm is, the date of the manufacture on the back of the alarm will tell you.

-Hardwired smoke alarms operate 94% of the time while battery powered alarms operate 80% of the time. However, if smoke alarms completely fail to operate, it could mean batteries are missing, disconnected or dead.

-As the National Fire Protection Association specifically recommend, an ionization smoke alarm is generally more responsive to flaming fires and a photoelectric smoke alarm is generally more responsive to smoldering fires. For the best protection, or where extra time is needed to awaken or assist others, both types of alarms, or combination ionization and photoelectric alarms are recommended.

Keep safe this week and every week. SERVPRO will always be there for you.

Grace & Holy Spirit Church Fire

9/15/2016 (Permalink)

A growing segment within SERVPRO Industries is Commercial Large Loss Response. Our professionally trained team has the experience and equipment to manage any and all commercial damage emergencies, no matter how large. One of the most devastating disasters for any business or commercial property is a fire. 

When an electrical fire caused significant damage to the Grace & Holy Spirit Church in Cortland, New York, we were eager to get to work. This landmark in the Cortland Community is not only a place of worship, but also the home to many outreach groups, including those who serve food to the hungry and hold 12-step programs. We knew that it was vital for this loss cleanup to be completed as quickly as possible and with a great deal of TLC. 

Summer Grilling

7/19/2016 (Permalink)

Summer is the time for picnics, barbeques and plenty of delicious food, however do you know all of the safety measures you should take with your grill? Three out of five households own a gas grill. Each year an average of 8,900 home fires are caused by grilling and about 16,000 patients went to the emergency room because of an injury involving a grill. Wow, that’s a lot. 

Most of these injuries and fires could have easily been avoided. So just in case, here are some tips on how to avoid injuries and fires while also enjoying those yummy summer-time meals:

• Keep your grill away from your home and deck railings.
• In order to safely turn on your grill, follow these steps:
• Open the lid before turning on the grill
• Turn on the propane tank
• Turn on the knobs of the grill burner
• Push ignition button (if you have one)
• If your grill doesn’t ignite, let gas dissipate for at least 5 minutes before igniting again. 
• To turn off your grill safely, turn the gas tank off first in order to keep excess gas from leaking out.

For more information on grill safety check out this link: http://bit.ly/25JqeuV 

And in case of fire damage, you know who to call; SERVPRO!

Home Fire Preparedness Campaign

7/7/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO and the American Red Cross are teaming up for a new partnership in 2016! We are working on the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign in which we help families become aware of the dangers of house fires and how to prepare for and prevent one. Get tips and tricks on how to stay prepared and learn what to do if there were a fire in your home. Check out the American Red Cross website for more information on Home Fire Safety!

http://rdcrss.org/1mN5M7B

Happy National Electrical Safety Month!

5/13/2016 (Permalink)

Happy National Electrical Safety Month! What is Electrical Safety Month you ask? “The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) is a non-profit organization dedicated exclusively to promoting electrical safety in the home, school, and workplace.” every year ESFI creates a campaign to educate key audiences about the steps that can be taken in order to reduce the number of electrically-related fires, fatalities, injuries and property loss. This year their campaign features a collection of new resources to help facilitate an effective electrical safety awareness campaign for your community, organization, school, or family. So read more here on how you can protect your office or home!

http://www.esfi.org/program/national-electrical-safety-month-314

And if anything does ever happen and you’re faced with recovering property from an electrical fire, SERVPRO is here to help! We’ve got 7 steps to get you through this trying time, just see how by clicking the link below!

http://www.SERVPRObroomecountyeast.com/fire-repair-process

Together, we can reduce the number of electrically-related deaths and injuries – one home, one school, and one workplace at a time!

Fireline Systems

2/9/2016 (Permalink)

Fireline

Have you or has someone you know experienced a fire or smoke damage to their home or business? Let us shed a little light on the system that SERVPRO of Broome, Tompkins & Tioga Counties uses to bring your contents back to new. The Fireline Ultrasonic Contents Cleaning System is an assembly line process to quickly clean customer's contents following fire or smoke damage or other related disaster. The Fireline's systematic approach to contents restoration has emerged as the industry model and continues to set the standard for efficiency. 

At SERVPRO of Broome, Tompkins & Tioga Counties we can now safely restore instead of replace your damaged contents. The Fireline System can clean to near pristine condition, much of your personal and sentimental contents. You would never know that your contents had been through a fire or smoke loss. Having the ability to restore your contents will provide you not only with peace of mind, but a timely turnout of your belongings and a cost savings for the client as well as the insurance company. 

While utilizing the Fireline System, our expertise in contents restoration enables us to offer a total solution that provides increased customer satisfaction. Employees that work in the Fireline Systems Center are all trained and certified to work in restoring contents as a result of a fire, smoke, water or mold loss. The staff at SERVPRO of Broome, Tompkins & Tioga Counties is highly trained in property damage restoration. From the initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility to industry certifications such as the Clean Trust (IICRC), rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property and contents. 

When choosing SERVPRO of Broome, Tompkins & Tioga Counties, you are choosing a company who understands the stress and worry that comes with devastation. Having our employees at your door with understanding, along with the knowledge and training to back their work will be invaluable.