What To Do With Your Belongings After a Fire

11/29/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Clifton Professionals understand your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings are the very things that make a house a home.

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Clifton professionals specialize in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Their expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. They pretest your belongings to determine what items they can restore to pre-fire condition. They use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Clifton Professionals can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. A move-out has several benefits, including:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, they will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage. 

Electronic Cleanup

Fire-damaged electronics can present a serious hazard. Do not attempt to turn on or operate any electrical device that you suspect has been damaged by fire. Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces. If the residues are not removed, corrosion causes electronic failure in the device. A SERVPRO of Clifton will coordinate the restoration of your electronics, including:

• Television sets
• DVD players
• Computers
• And more

The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. Electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician.

Document / Photograph Drying

When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water or fire, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the fire damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-fire damage condition, SERVPRO of Clifton Professionals can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. Learn more about our document restoration services.

Depending on the type of documents and the level of fire, smoke, or soot damage, they have five options for the restoration of documents:

1. Air Drying
2. Dehumidification
3. Freezer Drying
4. Vacuum Freeze Drying
5. Vacuum Thermal Drying

Contents Claim Inventory Service

When a fire emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. SERVPRO of Clifton Professionals can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings. They take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding. Learn more about the Contents Claim Inventory Service.

Our Contents Claim Inventory Service:

• Pre-loss list and value of contents
• Detailed and accurate report
• Better information to settle claims quicker
• Assistance with burden of proof for claims
• Peace of mind when you need it most!

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call SERVPRO of Clifton Today

973-928-3705

Taking the First Steps after a Fire

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

For Fire Damage Restoration Inside Your Woodland Park Home Call SERVPRO.

Depending on the severity of the blaze that burned inside your Woodland Park house, you and your family may be able to stay living in your home during the restoration process. For example, if the blaze was small and the building is still safe to be occupied, then you can live in sections that did not get affected.

What safety steps do you take when we can stay in or house during restoration?

During some fire damage restoration projects in Woodland Park, your insurance adjuster may ask that a professional company like SERVPRO conduct emergency cleaning procedures to make part of your home livable. In some cases where strong odors exist from protein-based residues, we can perform deodorization procedures. We can also clean areas of your home needed, such as your bathrooms or kitchen, as well as any clothing you need. We can establish a containment chamber to keep contaminants from the affected portions of your house getting into your living area.

What precautions can you take when I cannot stay in my home?

When the damage proves to be excessive, you may have to move out of your house because it is not safe to be occupied. When this occurs, we can do several things to secure your home, such as boarding it up and making sure the power and heat work. We can also prevent structural issues by doing things like reinforcing your floor joists.

How can you board up and secure my home?

Cover Over- One method we can use is to cover over the opening by attaching a piece of plywood to the surfaces surrounding the opening.

Insert. We can insert plywood inside the opening, which provides more security than covering over.

Bolt with Tension- The most secure way to board up an opening is to bolt the wood by nailing 2 x 4's around the piece of plywood.

If you ever notice that your structural components got burned during a fire, call SERVPRO of Clifton at (973) 928-3705 24/7.

More about Woodland Park.

Fire Damage Cleanup for your Little Falls Home

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Get Professional Fire Damage Cleanup in Little Falls for Items that Require Special Care

House fires are destructive and can start because of faulty electrical wiring or equipment. Even after extinguishing a fire, damage to your property and possessions continues. It is therefore, critical to prevent further destruction by calling professionals who have expertise in dealing with smoke, soot, and odor.

You can call SERVPRO to assist you in cleaning up your fire damaged Little Falls residence. We can assess the destruction that the flames, smoke, soot, or water has caused. Once we determine the amount of damage, we can come up with an estimate for cleaning up and restoring your house. A fire can ruin your home in many ways, including the following:

· Smoke may discolor the walls in a few minutes.

· Finishes on kitchen appliances may discolor within a few hours.

· Smoke can tarnish metal or cause etching in the glass after a short time.

· Smoke and ash can continue causing corrosion to materials the flames did not ruin.

Our technicians can remove smoke, soot, ash, and other residues that could have built up on different surfaces before they spread. We can also use deodorization products to remove unpleasant odors from curtains, carpets, and upholstered furniture. During the cleanup process, some items such as clothes, toys, jewelry, and food require special care. We use special cleaning procedures when cleaning such things.

Most clothes are made of artificial fibers and therefore smoke odor molecules, and smoke particles can bond with fabrics if you do not clean them quickly. To organize garment restoration, we recommend that you make three groups of clothes, namely:

· The clothes you need immediately

· The clothes you need at a later date

· Seasonal clothes

We inventory clothes before removing them from the fire damaged worksite. We take multiple steps to clean and deodorize clothing items, including removing them from metal hangers to prevent oxidization, eliminating loose, dry residues from fabrics, and spraying the garments with solvent-based odor counteracts.

When restoring toys, we do our best to ensure that we return them to a condition that is safe for children to play with them. We clean and sanitize toys, and if we have any doubts about their safety, we dispose of them.

The flames and heat of a fire can ruin foods, making them unsafe to consume. Our technicians dispose of food items that heat damage or smoke particles have ruined. We also evaluate canned foods to determine if they were too close to smoke and heat. We recommend disposing of food items that have discolored or scorched labels after you have inventoried them. Our SERVPRO technicians can also help you file your insurance claim using our contents claim inventory service (CCIS). The process involves identifying the salvageable and unsalvageable items and showing their value for easier settlements.

If you need fire damage cleanup services for items requiring special care, call SERVPRO of Clifton at (973) 928-3705. We are dedicated to professionalism and can meet your needs in Clifton, Woodland Park, and neighboring areas. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What To Do After a Fire in Your Business

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

After Fire Damage in your Business, call SERVPRO

Fire loss incidents can sweep through your Clifton bar quickly, and with natural accelerants behind the counter, can spread throughout the main area of the building beyond your control. Once first responders and firefighters have quelled the blaze and you can get to work on restoring the property, it is essential to leave this task in the hands of trained professionals like our team. We have IICRC certifications in both Fire & Smoke Restoration and Odor Control, which makes us uniquely qualified to handle all of the effects that your bar could experience from a fire loss incident. 

Our team can work quickly to assess the full scale of the fire damage to your Clifton bar, and in doing so, can also get effective mitigation strategies started. We understand how vital it is to get the bar back open to your customers, as the city has no shortage of nightlife establishments. It is easy for businesses to lose their loyal customers when they have to spend prolonged periods with their doors closed. Our SERVPRO team can help with a fast and confident response to address the lingering effects in your building. 

Containment is a vital component to keeping the symptoms of a fire loss incident from reaching new areas or from getting worse in the affected portions of the bar. We work to establish both physical barriers with implements like plastic sheeting and general area barriers with the use of our sophisticated filtering and deodorization equipment like our hydroxyl and ozone machines. With the onboard HEPA filter and specific positioning in prime locations throughout the bar, damaging effects cannot move freely throughout the property. 

We know how important it is to overcome fire loss incidents as promptly as possible for your area bar. With the patrons that you serve on a nightly basis, a prolonged closing could cost you profits and loyalty. Our SERVPRO of Clifton fire restoration specialists have the expertise and the equipment to help. Call anytime that you need us at (973) 928-3705.

See more about Clifton, NJ.

Eliminate Company Downtime After a Fire

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

Fire events can be catastrophic for a business. Whether you have soot residue buildup or water damage after a blaze, SERVPRO has all the techniques and proven restoration methods. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, thus ensuring you cut back on company downtime, costs, and stress.

For commercial fire damage restoration in Clifton, our technicians will be on-site right away to evaluate the severity of the loss. Carefully documenting all damage helps to get our restoration team moving in the right direction. Throughout the inspection, we will:

• Look at building materials, cabinets, counters, fixtures and more.
• Determine whether or not the damage is limited to certain areas.
• Formulate the best measures to act, including setting up exclusion zones for containment.
• Take pictures that will be used to provide to the insurance company if this is an insurance claim

Did You Know? Most fire emergencies also suffer from significant water damage due to the first responders suppressing the flames or sprinkler systems. All standing water must be removed and excess moisture dried up so that secondary damage or mold does not set in. 

Our fire and soot restoration technicians (FSRT) know how to properly clean each surface to achieve the best results. We use spot-testing methods to ensure no further damage occurs and always initiate controlled demolition measures, as needed. Everything gets restored to pre-fire condition so that your business never misses a beat. It will be just “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO of Clifton at (973) 928-3705 whenever you need fire damage restoration at your place of business. We are here 24/7 for emergency service whenever you need us!

Fire Safety in the Workplace

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO, the nations leader in Fire, Water, and Mold restoration.

It is important to have a fire prevention plan in place at all times whether it is in your residence or your business.

Below are 11 tips to ensure a fire-safe workplace:

Step 1. Get Organized– Keep areas clean and tidy. Clutter contributes to fires by providing fuel and by preventing access to exits and emergency equipment. 

Step 2. Designated Smoking Areas – Smoke only in designated areas, and extinguish smoking materials safely. Never smoke in storerooms or chemical storage areas. 

Step 3. Fire Extinguishers – Maintaining the appropriate type and number of fire extinguishers and learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher. Make sure to get them checked regularly to ensure they will work when you need to use it.

Step 4. Electrical Hazards – Report all electrical hazards. Many fires start in faulty wiring and malfunctioning electrical equipment. 

Step 5. Access to Control Panels – Make sure there is a clear and direct path to the control panels. Electrical control panels need to have free access maintained so that the electric could be shut off easily. 

Step 6. Maintenance – Maintain machinery to prevent overheating and friction sparks. 

Step 7. Sprinkler Systems & Smoke Detectors – Never block sprinklers, firefighting equipment or emergency exits. Observe clearances when stacking materials. Make sure to have sprinkler systems and smoke detectors checked at least annually.

Step 8. Chemical Safety – Use and store chemicals safely. Always read labels and Safety Data sheets to familiarize yourself with the chemicals and determine flammability and other fire hazards. Provide adequate ventilation when using and storing these substances. 

Step 9. Waste Control & Storage – Control the accumulations of flammable and combustible waste materials and residues so that they do not contribute to a fire emergency. 

Step 10. Exits – All exits should be be posted and emergency exits should be well lit with neon-regulation signs. All employees must be familiar with the exits. There should be monthly drills.

Step 11. Contact Info – Employees should have a list of emergency contact phone numbers in case of emergency. Remember that people will often panic in an intense situation; therefore basics such as the company address, phone number and floor plan should be posted. 

Planning to ensure fire protection and safety is key to avoiding unwanted fire issues. Call SERVPRO of Clifton at 973-928-3705 for all your fire restoration needs.

Fire Damage Debris Removal You Can Do For Your Little Falls Home

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

While professional fire debris removal is a coverage option that most Little Falls homeowners have in their insurance policy, you might find that you would rather not risk potentially raising your premiums for moderate cleanup and recovery efforts. Addressing an initial task like debris removal involves much more than cleaning affected areas, as there are potential hazards that can exist with this DIY as well.

Even with some potential pitfalls, many homeowners can often address fire damage to Little Falls properties provided that the situation does not get out of control. During the initial inspection and assessment of the property after extinguishment occurs, you should keep an eye out for a few specific situations that could become problematic:

Structural Weakness
You cannot always tell when specific areas of your home have become unsafe to support your weight, or are hanging on by only a small amount of material before a collapse occurs. If you must perform an assessment instead of professionals like our SERVPRO team, tread carefully.

The Concentration of Soot
Soot is a severe effect that can exist after extinguishment and land on surfaces and contents. These conditions are very challenging to clean without staining and smearing, but airborne soot particulates can also present a potentially hazardous condition for those exposed.

The Wishes of Your Insurance Company
You might determine shortly after a fire gets extinguished to pursue a damage claim, and many insurance providers want experienced professionals like our SERVPRO technicians providing a damage assessment and catalog of losses from the property.

DIY assessment and debris removal can save a homeowner time and money if they have a good understanding of what their property needs and are careful to address all of the damaged areas. Unresolved symptoms and damages can present health and structural risks that might not appear immediately.

While there are many ways that you can save money by addressing specific aspects of fire loss incidents on your own, it is crucial to understand your limitations and the severity of the disaster. Our SERVPRO of Clifton team is here when you need us. Our experts can make it “Like it never even happened,” by calling (973) 928-3705.

For more about Little Falls click here.

Your Belongings and Fire Damage

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Clifton Professionals understand your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings are the very things that make a house a home.

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Clifton Professionals specialize in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Their expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. They pretest your belongings to determine what items they can restore to pre-fire condition. They use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Clifton Professionals can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. A move-out has several benefits, including:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, they will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage. 

Electronic Cleanup

Fire-damaged electronics can present a serious hazard. Do not attempt to turn on or operate any electrical device that you suspect has been damaged by fire. Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces. If the residues are not removed, corrosion causes electronic failure in the device. A SERVPRO of Clifton will coordinate the restoration of your electronics, including:

• Television sets
• DVD players
• Computers
• And more

The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. Electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician.

Document / Photograph Drying

When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water or fire, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the fire damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-fire damage condition, SERVPRO of Clifton Professionals can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. Learn more about our document restoration services.

Depending on the type of documents and the level of fire, smoke, or soot damage, they have five options for the restoration of documents:

1. Air Drying
2. Dehumidification
3. Freezer Drying
4. Vacuum Freeze Drying
5. Vacuum Thermal Drying

Contents Claim Inventory Service

When a fire emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. SERVPRO of Clifton Professionals can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings. They take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding. Learn more about the Contents Claim Inventory Service.

Our Contents Claim Inventory Service:

• Pre-loss list and value of contents
• Detailed and accurate report
• Better information to settle claims quicker
• Assistance with burden of proof for claims
• Peace of mind when you need it most!

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call SERVPRO of Clifton Today

973-928-3705

Will My Insurance Cover Fire Damage Restoration?

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage can derail your daily routine, and it can create a flurry of phone calls to your insurance, to a professional cleaning service, and to other contractors necessary to finalize repairs. Each case is unique, and your insurance claims adjuster will guide you through their process. However, SERVPRO can be a resource to restore your home after fire damage and to liaise with other relevant parties until the goal of restoration is met.

Our SERVPRO team is specialized and certified by The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to handle the most stringent fire cleanup efforts in Clifton. Our industry knowledge and expertise prepare us to come into your home, assess the situation, and make recommendations for the next steps. Throughout the process, we document our actions and provide any information you may need from us to file your insurance claim.

What are the steps to clean fire damage?
Fire damage is complex because it often entails the effects of the flames as well as the residue left behind by extinguishers and sprinkler systems. When our SERVPRO team comes in, we first ensure the safety of all present and then prioritize the tasks at hand. As we use pumps and other equipment to extract and evaporate the water in your home, we may place furniture on risers, so it no longer soaks water. Once humidity levels are back to normal, we concentrate on the smoke and soot itself. Our technicians take into consideration the following when making their action plan:

    •    The path of the fire- we follow its path to assess how widespread it is. Air vents are part of our consideration when evaluating the presence of smoke in other rooms in your home.
    •    The composition of burnt material- organic materials leaves a fine residue on the surfaces of your home, while man-made objects leave a stickier remnant.
    •    The smell in your home- as necessary, we apply air purifying techniques such as ozone generators and thermal fogging to get rid of the foul smell left behind by the flames.

Fire damage is our area of expertise at SERVPRO of Clifton. Call us today at (973) 928-3705!

For more about Clifton click here.

How to Prevent Fires in Your Bloomfield Home

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms are a great tool for house fire prevention, but they are not the only way to lessen your risk.

The Numbers Behind House Fires

In the United States, it is reported that a home fire is put on record every 24 seconds according to the NFPA. That works out to nearly 8,600 house fires a day.

Though the vast majority of house fires are cooking-related, malfunctioning appliances, frayed wiring or cords, and carelessness with open flames are also often to blame. Because fires spread rapidly and can quickly consume an entire home, it is essential to be vigilant in prevention for the safety of your household.

House Fire Prevention Tips

Being proactive is the best defense against house fires. By keeping these fire prevention tips in mind, you can minimize your risk and keep your family and home safer:

Maintain smoke detectors. Maintain your smoke detectors by testing them once a month and replacing them every 10 years.

Clean the dryer. After each load of laundry is dried, make a point to clear the  lint from the tray. Lint build up can become a fire hazard when the dryer is warming up.

Keep an eye on open flames. Fires can start and spread faster than you think, which is why it is never wise to leave the room when there is an open flame. Whether it is a candle, cooking flame or fireplace, always keep an eye on them.

Maintain electrical cords. Cords and electrical wires should be checked often for frayed spots and immediately replaced if they are present. Never run electrical cords under rugs or behind furniture, as they can produce heat and catch fire.

Read product labels. Chemicals in household products can be highly flammable, and so can products that come in aerosol cans. Keep these away from sunlight or heat sources.

If your home has suffered damage from a house fire, give us a call. We are certified in fire and soot remediation, and here to help ²⁴⁄₇.

SERVPRO of Clifton 973-928-3705

Fire Restoration for Your Little Falls Home

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Get Professional Fire Damage Cleanup in Little Falls for Items that Require Special Care

House fires are destructive and can start because of faulty electrical wiring or equipment. Even after extinguishing a fire, damage to your property and possessions continues. It is therefore, critical to prevent further destruction by calling professionals who have expertise in dealing with smoke, soot, and odor.

You can call SERVPRO to assist you in cleaning up your fire damaged Little Falls residence. We can assess the destruction that the flames, smoke, soot, or water has caused. Once we determine the amount of damage, we can come up with an estimate for cleaning up and restoring your house. A fire can ruin your home in many ways, including the following:

· Smoke may discolor the walls in a few minutes.

· Finishes on kitchen appliances may discolor within a few hours.

· Smoke can tarnish metal or cause etching in the glass after a short time.

· Smoke and ash can continue causing corrosion to materials the flames did not ruin.

Our technicians can remove smoke, soot, ash, and other residues that could have built up on different surfaces before they spread. We can also use deodorization products to remove unpleasant odors from curtains, carpets, and upholstered furniture. During the cleanup process, some items such as clothes, toys, jewelry, and food require special care. We use special cleaning procedures when cleaning such things.

Most clothes are made of artificial fibers and therefore smoke odor molecules, and smoke particles can bond with fabrics if you do not clean them quickly. To organize garment restoration, we recommend that you make three groups of clothes, namely:

· The clothes you need immediately

· The clothes you need at a later date

· Seasonal clothes

We inventory clothes before removing them from the fire damaged worksite. We take multiple steps to clean and deodorize clothing items, including removing them from metal hangers to prevent oxidization, eliminating loose, dry residues from fabrics, and spraying the garments with solvent-based odor counteracts.

When restoring toys, we do our best to ensure that we return them to a condition that is safe for children to play with them. We clean and sanitize toys, and if we have any doubts about their safety, we dispose of them.

The flames and heat of a fire can ruin foods, making them unsafe to consume. Our technicians dispose of food items that heat damage or smoke particles have ruined. We also evaluate canned foods to determine if they were too close to smoke and heat. We recommend disposing of food items that have discolored or scorched labels after you have inventoried them. Our SERVPRO technicians can also help you file your insurance claim using our contents claim inventory service (CCIS). The process involves identifying the salvageable and unsalvageable items and showing their value for easier settlements.

If you need fire damage cleanup services for items requiring special care, call SERVPRO of Clifton at (973) 928-3705. We are dedicated to professionalism and can meet your needs in Clifton, Woodland Park, and neighboring areas. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

See more about Little Falls.

Smoke Alarm Safety

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms are one of the most important things to have in your home.

Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms will give you early warning so you can get outside quickly.

SAFETY TIPS

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom. They should also be outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home including the basement.

• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms. Interconnected smoke alarms are good because when one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound.

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

• Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.

• A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 ft from the stove.

• There are special smoke alarms for people who are hard-of-hearing or deaf that use strobe lights and bed shakers.

• Replace all smoke alarms when they are around 10 years old, but check them every 6 months to ensure the batteries are good and the alarm is working properly.

Facts 

• A closed-door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
• Smoke alarms should be installed inside every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level. Smoke alarms should be connected so when one sounds, they all sound. Most homes do not have this level of protection.
• Roughly 3 out of 5 fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

Click here National Fire Protection Organization for more about fire safety education and tips.

SERVPRO of Clifton

         973-928-3705

Where Do Property Owners Seek Help When in Need of Fire Damage Restoration Services?

2/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the experienced technicians with the equipment and expertise your home needs after a fire mishap. Give us a call right away.

SERVPRO’s Team of Restorers Offers Professional Fire Restoration Services in Little Falls

Fire is an absolute nightmare to property owners because of the damage that it leaves behind. Most homeowners feel a sense of relief after the fire department puts out the flames. Unfortunately, the secondary damages of the fire begin immediately.

Once the fire trucks leave your property, it is essential to contact experienced restorers from SERVPRO to conduct fire restoration in your Little Falls residence. We have a team of certified technicians who have successfully restored thousands of homes. Our technicians use state-of-the-art equipment and products since fire creates corrosive byproducts after burning synthetic materials. Along with smoke and soot, the byproducts cause considerable damage on various surfaces. Beginning the fire damage restoration process on time helps prevent the damage from spreading to unaffected areas.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Process is Complex and Comprises of the Steps Below:

• Inspecting the area to determine the extent of the fire damage.
• Removal of damaged contents to separate salvageable items from those damaged beyond repair.
• Since the fire department often uses water to fight the flames, water damage can occur. We can remove the water and repair any resulting damage.
• Smoke and soot damage restoration using advanced cleaning products. Our technicians can use natural fabric brightener mixed with shampoo super concentrate to clean cotton materials and wool carpeting.
• Thorough disinfection and cleaning of the affected area using powerful products
• Deodorization to remove the charcoal-like odor.

In the event of a fire, hire certified professionals on time to prevent secondary fire damage. Contact SERVPRO of Clifton at (973) 928-3705 for effective restoration. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Is Restoration Tough to Navigate After a Fire?

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will take away your fire fears. Call us immediately after a fire. We will have our teams on site right away!

SERVPRO Handles Fire Damage Restoration Using Proven Methods and Advanced Technology, Making It Easier to Bring Your Clifton Property Back to Life.

When summing up a house fire, many homeowners who have been through it will tell you it was their worst nightmare. However, the various steps you take immediately after the fire play a significant role in your restoration outcome. SERVPRO features IICRC-certified technicians ready to address every detail so that you can rest easy and know that everything is taken care of. Once you contact us, we can be at your Clifton property quickly to begin restoration efforts.

With SERVPRO’s fire damage restoration in Clifton, you can count on our methods and proven track record. We are available to take emergency calls 24/7 so that you know you have skilled technicians on your side and ready to get to work. Our team understands that each fire restoration project we get called to is unique, so we must adjust our cleaning procedures accordingly. The steps generally go as follows:

• You contact us, and we send out our Green Fleet to your property in as little as a few hours. We are Faster to Any Size Disaster!
• We thoroughly inspect your home once the property is deemed safe for entry, which will include a complete fire damage assessment.

• If needed, we perform immediate board-up services or tarping to protect your interior from exposure to the elements.
• We will remove any water and moisture present from extinguishing the flames, followed by our specialized drying techniques
• Our crew then handles the removal of all soot and smoke residue from surfaces, including deodorization practices
• We tackle any cleaning, controlled demolition, and repair as needed.
• Restoration wraps up with your interior sanitized and deodorized to ensure everything is left “Like it never even happened.”

What Precautions Should I Take After a Fire?

With a fire event in your home, you need to know the structure is safe to re-enter before anything can be done inside. This includes grabbing any of the belongings that you need/want. You should call SERVPRO as soon as possible to set our crew in motion to arrive where assessment can begin. This is also a good time for you to contact your homeowner’s insurance provider so that you can inform them of the fire. 

Why Do I Need Certified Technicians on the Job?

Fire restoration calls for specialized skills and techniques, ensuring safety, best practices, and professional results. We have a staff fully-trained through regular SERVPRO teachings as well as the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC is the entity that sets forth the standards for the industry of cleaning and restoration. We can handle all of the fire damage, water cleanup, contents cleaning, and mold remediation that may be involved in your fire damage project. 

Do I Need to Worry About Structural Damage?

Depending on the extent of the blaze, there could be much damage that calls for extensive repairs. Our team works to restore your interior to bring it back to pre-fire condition faster than any DIY methods. Controlled demolition and repair is extremely beneficial to save both time and money for your project. 

• We work to gain access to areas showing damage, including structural cavities that may be holding onto pooled water and soot.
• The crew will also handle the removal of any compromised materials caught within the path of the fire. Whenever partially damaged materials are not appropriately addressed, odors can intensify, and soot becomes corrosive in nature. 
• It is essential that we work to handle all substantial structural concerns as soon as possible after the fire. This is done for both the safety of our crew as well as the integrity of your home. 

How Do You Handle Soot Odors?

Unpleasant soot and smoke odors can linger if not appropriately handled during mitigation. We determine the kind of soot present so that we can select the best possible method for removal. This includes:

• Careful selection of cleaning products
• Use of advanced equipment and processes for deodorization
• Sealants that help to lock in odors left on certain surfaces after cleaning

During Fire Damage Restoration, is There a Need for Full-Scale Reconstruction?

A great deal of repairing or reconstructing takes place throughout the mitigation steps of your project. However, there are times when our in-house technicians may work in unison to ensure the entire job is as seamless as possible. We never want you to wait so that scheduling conflicts get in the way of the timeline we set in place to get you back into your home enjoying your regular activities. 

SERVPRO of Clifton has you covered when you want trained technicians for your fire damage restoration needs. With one call to (973) 928-3705, we will have a crew at your door and ready to get started within hours.

What Are Some Safety Tips to Prevent Fires?

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

With the holidays right here at our door steps, please be prepared and know SERVPRO is here for you and your family.

Clifton Residents Need to Be Cautious of the Potential for Fires Around the Holidays – These Tips Can Help

Many families throughout Clifton enjoy the holidays. It isn’t just a time for decorations, food and fun. It is also a time to think about the potential for fires. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that residential fires increase around the holidays, mainly due to decorations igniting.

What Should I Know About Fires During This Time?

Statistics show that 44% of fires caused by holiday decorations that were too close to a heat source. Candles accounted for 37% of those fires. The kitchen was where 21% of them started. Vigilance needs to be taken when decorating for fall and preparing for gatherings. SERVPRO has mitigated fire damage in Clifton for just these reasons.

 How Can I Keep My Family Safe?

Christmas lights are a holiday tradition for quite a few families. Icicles and trees adorn porches and homes all over Clifton. When the decorations are set out, often, a candle is placed around the home for holiday fragrances. This can lead to unintended consequences. Unstable decorations can easily get bumped, causing the candle to come in contact with flammable items. Here are some tips to avoid fire risks:

• Keep highly flammable decorations like gift wrapping or christmas skirts away from open flames.
• Instead of real candles inside your home, opt for battery operated lights or flameless candles.
• When using candles for decorations indoors, blow them out before leaving the room. Avoid using candles in bedrooms.

By following these essential safety tips, you can help prevent a holiday that is something families look forward to becoming something devastating. SERVPRO understands the results of fire damage. We hope you and your family have a safe and happy holiday.

 Contact SERVPRO of Clifton at (973) 928-3704 for professional fire damage service. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What Should I Do After I Have a Grease Fire in My Kitchen?

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

In the event of a fire incident, you need a team you can count on. Our SERVPRO technicians are available around the clock to assist you.

For Fire Damage Restoration After You Suffer From a Mishap in Your Kitchen in Little Falls Call SERVPRO.

The most common way a fire starts inside residential buildings in Little Falls is by a cooking accident. Sometimes people get distracted and leave whatever they are cooking unattended, and then a mishap occurs. Grease fires can start quickly and burn many items inside your house in a short period.

What problems can occur even if I extinguish the blaze quickly?

During fire damage restoration in Little Falls, our SERVPRO experts first inspect your entire structure for possible issues. When something sets ablaze inside your kitchen, the heat and the smoke coming from the flames can cause problems with your building materials and contents. Smoke can travel through various parts of your house and leave behind residues. Partially combusted particles first rise with the heat, and then they can harden and attach to cooler surfaces like the upper part of your walls and your ceilings. A grease fire can create oily residues that can prove to be difficult to remove from the various surfaces inside your home.

How can you remove greasy, oily residues from my walls and ceilings?

"Like Dissolves Like": This phrase describes the fact that water-based detergents work best on soils that are H2O-based and oily residues can be removed more efficiently by using oil-based products.

The Use of Solvents: A solvent simply is any solution that has the capability of dissolving another substance. In the cleaning and restoration industry, though, a solvent is defined as any cleaning agent that is not water-based. Solvents can be used to remove soils that aren't water-soluble or in situations where water-based detergents could damage the item being cleaned.

The Use of Detergents: Water-based solutions can sometimes be effective against oil-based residues because the detergents can attach themselves to the soil molecules, and then the water can pull them away.

If you ever suffer from a grease fire, call SERVPRO of Clifton at (973) 928-3705 24/7.

Learn about Little Falls.

What is the First Step I Should Take After I Have a Fire in My House?

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

You can contact our professionals 24/7. Our fire damage experts are trained in fire & smoke restoration, odor control, upholstery and fabric cleaning.

For Fire Damage Restoration Inside Your Woodland Park Home Call SERVPRO.

Depending on the severity of the blaze that burned inside your Woodland Park house, you and your family may be able to stay living in your home during the restoration process. For example, if the blaze was small and the building is still safe to be occupied, then you can live in sections that did not get affected.

What safety steps do you take when we can stay in or house during restoration?

During some fire damage restoration projects in Woodland Park, your insurance adjuster may ask that a professional company like SERVPRO conduct emergency cleaning procedures to make part of your home livable. In some cases where strong odors exist from protein-based residues, we can perform deodorization procedures. We can also clean areas of your home needed, such as your bathrooms or kitchen, as well as any clothing you need. We can establish a containment chamber to keep contaminants from the affected portions of your house getting into your living area.

What precautions can you take when I cannot stay in my home?

When the damage proves to be excessive, you may have to move out of your house because it is not safe to be occupied. When this occurs, we can do several things to secure your home, such as boarding it up and making sure the power and heat work. We can also prevent structural issues by doing things like reinforcing your floor joists.

How can you board up and secure my home?

Cover Over- One method we can use is to cover over the opening by attaching a piece of plywood to the surfaces surrounding the opening.

Insert. We can insert plywood inside the opening, which provides more security than covering over.

Bolt with Tension- The most secure way to board up an opening is to bolt the wood by nailing 2 x 4's around the piece of plywood.

If you ever notice that your structural components got burned during a fire, call SERVPRO of Clifton at (973) 928-3705 24/7.

More about Woodland Park.

Are There Different Types of Fire Damage?

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

When fire damage happens, contact SERVPRO at (973) 928-3705. No matter how big or small the problem.

With smoke effects, there are multiple types that our SERVPRO team must address in Little Falls homes based on the material burned and the conditions of the fire.

Smoke is one of the most common effects of a fire because it gets generated during the combustion of almost every material in your Little Falls home. The variances in the type of damage that occurs involve the kind of material combusting and the areas of the house impacted. As challenging of a loss effect as this can become to clean up, there are several methods at our disposal to address these conditions.

Our SERVPRO team strives to be the one-stop-shop for all of the fire damage in Little Falls homes and businesses. To do this, we begin with a prompt response amid the crisis to begin mitigation and emergency services as soon as possible. This fast arrival can dictate the kind of smoke damage and structural losses present in the house and determine the appropriate surface and content cleaning techniques.

What Kind of Smoke Damages Exist? 

The combustion of a fire is often a combination of three primary factors: oxygen, heat, and fuel (material that burns.) A perfect blend of these elements would leave no residues or coatings behind, but this is rarely the case. Instead, smoke gets generated. As if the situation were not enough of an obstacle, the variances in heat, structural components, and exposure can leave homes contending with each of these smoke types in certain circumstances:

• Wet Smoke
• Dry Smoke
• Protein Smoke
• Fuel Oil Smoke

Is Wet Smoke Challenging to Remove? 

Identifying wet smoke often occurs with a pre-test when our professionals arrive. When we can note that most of the damage results from a slow-burning fire, deposits on the surfaces of construction materials and the contents of the house are often this more challenging residue. One of the reasons that this type of smoke damage can be a substantial obstacle is the time that these loss effects have during the fire itself to spread. Thick residues commonly left behind after smoldering can get pushed and forced into crevices, cracks, and inaccessible areas of the property.

Specific cleaning practices exist for wet smoke damage, typically involving agitative approaches like vacuuming, brushing, scrubbing, and more, along with our more potent chemical agents. In some cases where it gets believed that materials can get preserved, restoration might involve stripping and refinishing a surface. Cleaning up after wet smoke is not without its potential problems, however. These residues often lead to:

• Smearing
• Staining
• Strong Odors

How Does Dry Smoke Form? 

Dry smoke is another challenge resulting from a specific fire type. Instead of a slow, smoldering fire, dry smoke gets created from a fast-burning, quick-moving blaze. Combustion is far more complete with dry heat fires. Instead of a thick, oily residue, our technicians instead must clean up a chalky film left behind on surfaces and contents otherwise unaffected by the fire.

Materials impacted directly by the moving flames before extinguishment are often too charred, blistered, and burned to protect and preserve. Controlled demolition is a practical approach to these situations. Removing only the compromised portions of wall systems, flooring, and ceiling materials can reduce money spent on materials and the installation you later require.

What Makes Protein Residues Challenging to Remove? 

Protein fires are not often thought of when it comes to fire restoration but can be one of the most common obstacles in kitchen fire scenarios. Often these fires originate from food burning or grease igniting. Burned meats, foul, and fish can leave a thick and odorous residue on surfaces in the kitchen area. Some of the worst areas impacted by these protein smoke residues are the cabinets and wall materials directly connected to the ignition point on the stove. Be mindful of the risks of grease fire flare-ups in your kitchen and the appropriate ways to handle emergencies when cooking:

• Red Meat
• Poultry
• Fish

How Common is Fuel Oil Soot Damages? 

Furnace puff backs result from the ignition of your furnace getting delayed, and with older units, this can happen more often than homeowners think. Vapors can build up in the chamber to the point of a small explosion when the furnace does start. This blast shoots soot and other debris through the house and out of registers and vents. This ionized smoke damage can easily be identified as it commonly stays within the vicinity of registers and vents in the furnace system and can appear like black spider webs on surfaces.

Smoke can be a considerable obstacle for even well-trained service professionals. Let our SERVPRO of Clifton help you to make fire losses “Like it never even happened,” no matter what kind of smoke damage you have to face. Give us a call anytime at (973) 928-3705.

Is Fire Damage Restoration Handled by My Clifton Insurance Company or By Me?

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage is our area of expertise at SERVPRO of Clifton.

Clifton Homeowners in Need of Fire Damage Restoration Should Call SERVPRO for Help

Fire damage can derail your daily routine, and it can create a flurry of phone calls to your insurance, to a professional cleaning service, and to other contractors necessary to finalize repairs. Each case is unique, and your insurance claims adjuster will guide you through their process. However, SERVPRO can be a resource to restore your home after fire damage and to liaise with other relevant parties until the goal of restoration is met.

Our SERVPRO team is specialized and certified by The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to handle the most stringent fire cleanup efforts in Clifton. Our industry knowledge and expertise prepare us to come into your home, assess the situation, and make recommendations for the next steps. Throughout the process, we document our actions and provide any information you may need from us to file your insurance claim.

What are the steps to clean fire damage?
Fire damage is complex because it often entails the effects of the flames as well as the residue left behind by extinguishers and sprinkler systems. When our SERVPRO team comes in, we first ensure the safety of all present and then prioritize the tasks at hand. As we use pumps and other equipment to extract and evaporate the water in your home, we may place furniture on risers, so it no longer soaks water. Once humidity levels are back to normal, we concentrate on the smoke and soot itself. Our technicians take into consideration the following when making their action plan:

    •    The path of the fire- we follow its path to assess how widespread it is. Air vents are part of our consideration when evaluating the presence of smoke in other rooms in your home.
    •    The composition of burnt material- organic materials leaves a fine residue on the surfaces of your home, while man-made objects leave a stickier remnant.
    •    The smell in your home- as necessary, we apply air purifying techniques such as ozone generators and thermal fogging to get rid of the foul smell left behind by the flames.

Fire damage is our area of expertise at SERVPRO of Clifton. Call us at (973) 928-3705 and let us work for you until your home feels, “Like it never even happened.”

For more about Clifton click here.

We Act Fast In Clifton After A Fire

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

We have the equipment, expertise and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We are available 24/7 so don't hesitate and call us right away.

Restoration of Soot and Smoke-related Fire Damage in your Clifton Home

Fire damage Clifton

Fire and the resulting hot smoke and ash can spread rapidly through a property. As it spreads, soiling is left behind on walls, ceilings, fabrics, and furniture. These soot and smoke residues can often be odorous or cause long-term staining if the affected area is not professionally restored. While homeowners can tackle some elements of cosmetic damages themselves using household cleaning products, certain areas, such as walls and ceilings, need expert care and attention to causing further issues.

Our restoration company provides qualified technicians for homeowners with fire damage in the Clifton area. By reaching out to us promptly, you give your home the best possible chance of making a full recovery- referred to in the industry as a preloss condition. Using a combination of training, industrial cleaning agents, and specialist equipment, SERVPRO can tackle even the most stubborn soot or smoke residues. As part of our restoration service, we can deodorize some or all of the property to remove lingering odors that can become an unpleasant reminder of the fire itself.

A room that has sustained significant levels of smoke or soot soiling can often be restored to a preloss condition with the right materials and methods. SERVPRO takes extra care to protect your possessions from further harm during the cleaning process by removing any loose items to a safe distance as well as sealing and covering larger items. In doing so, we can avoid the common knock-on effect of cleaning soots, which can land on direct items and cause extensive issues. In major property fires, we can perform pack-outs on a customer's behalf by temporarily removing contents for safe storage in a separate facility after fire damage.

There are often two types of smoke damage that can affect the same area of any particular wall or ceiling. These two categories are wet and dry smoke, which each require different cleaning methods to avoid spreading. SERVPRO can use industrial vacuums and a coiling brush to remove any loose soiling from surfaces. In some cases, soots may bond with the surface itself, requiring the application of solvent cleaning solution to remove effectively. We sensitively wash, rinse and dry walls or ceilings to avoid repainting or other expensive replacement options, keeping your claim expense low and stress-free.

Do not hesitate to bring in professional assistance for fire and smoke damages from professional, local technicians. Contact SERVPRO of Clifton straightaway at (973) 928-3705.

See more about Clifton.

Proven Tips to Combat Fire Damage in Clifton

11/30/2019 (Permalink)

It can be quite overwhelming when your home suffers from a fire. Contact SERVPRO for fire damage remediation services right away.

Fire Damage Clifton – Water, Smoke, Odor, and Fire

Fire damage is often much more than just the damage caused by the fire. There can be charred areas from the fire. There may be either water damage or chemical residue used by the firemen to quell the fire. Smoke and odor may have permeated the home, even if the rest of the home is undamaged from the fire.

SERVPRO's experience and training with fire damage events in Clifton often help clients with the stress of dealing with a fire as well as recovering from the fire. We are onsite within four hours and respond on a 24/7 basis. Our technicians have been trained to deal with fire, smoke, odor, water damage, and cleaning of fabrics and furniture.

Immediate Action

SERVPRO not only responds quickly, but we also deploy teams to begin cleaning and removing damaged contents immediately. Removal and cleaning activities reduce the odor. All hard surfaces are cleaned and wiped down. If chemicals have been used to quell the fire, we apply appropriate cleaning materials to remove the residue.

Restoration vs. Replacing Saves Time and Money

Not everything can be cleaned; however, we focus on cleaning and restoring as many items as possible. This approach of returning items to pre-fire conditions saves time, and the overall cost can be reduced. We aim to return your home to normal as fast as possible.

Odor Removal

Smoke and odors sometimes can spread throughout the home and leaves an odor in rooms well away from the actual fire. Severe odor conditions may require the family to vacate the home while ozone generators are used to dispel odors. SERVPRO prefers to use hydroxyl generators, which allows the family to remain in the home during their use. SERVPRO crew chiefs always deploy the necessary equipment to return your home to its original condition, "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO of Clifton at (973) 928-3705 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve Woodland Park, Little Falls, and the surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Click here for more information about the city of Clifton.

Our Fire Damage Experts Can Save Your Clifton Home

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Give us a call when you need us at (973) 928-3705.

Proper Damage Assessment Makes Clifton Fire Recovery Efficient

Among the most challenging aspects of fire recovery in your Clifton home is understanding how severe the damage is and what can be done to correct it. While restoration is a necessity after structure fires, accurately identifying the severity and scope of the damage can better determine the personnel, equipment, and processes required to return your home to preloss condition.

Because of how destructive fire damage in Clifton homes can continue to be, even after extinguishment, it is vital to secure restoration services as promptly as possible. We aim to streamline every phase of restoration and recovery, including our controlled demolition and reconstruction efforts with our licensed general contractors. This commitment begins with a thorough and intricate assessment of the entire property to understand the full scope of the fire loss.

Assessing hazards is one of the primary methods of keeping our technicians safe when our SERVPRO team gets set to begin working on fire losses in your residence, as well. Every restoration project is different, and variables exist that can become amplified or more dangerous in specific environments and conditions. Gasses released during the burning of certain materials, concentrations of soot and other debris, and even potential exposure to asbestos or lead must get determined to protect our employees working to restore your property.

The scope of the damage to your property also involves a detailed walkthrough and assessment by our SERVPRO project manager. Working with your insurance adjuster, we can determine a full catalog of the loss and the schedule and timeline of restoration projects to come. From determining moisture and dampness from firefighting efforts to the airborne threats present in the environment, we can map out the entire course of our restoration efforts from mitigation through reconstruction and cleanup.

With a thorough inspection of your home after first responders and firefighters have left your property, our SERVPRO of Clifton team can begin our mitigation and restoration processes quickly. Our full understanding of the damage and threats present can make our recovery more efficient and save our customers money on the work to get completed. Give us a call when you need us at (973) 928-3705.

For more about Clifton click here.

Our Experts Discuss Our Restoration Deodorization Procedures In Clifton

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

Our goal is always to return your home 100% and make it seem, “Like it never even happened.”

Clifton's Fire Damage Pros Spell Out Restoration Deodorization Procedures

When anything ignites in or near your Clifton residence, burnt materials are not the only problems that can materialize. Smoke which consists of partially combusted fuels can add to the severity of your property's fire damage. Smoke can travel throughout your structure and leave behind soils and soot residues that can firmly adhere to surfaces in your home. Microscopic partially combusted particles can also penetrate deeply into porous items, making them smell burnt.

Our SERVPRO technicians know that a significant part of any fire damage project in Clifton is deodorization. Foul aromas can exist well after the blaze gets put out unless the problems get treated. When removing malodor particles, there are specific steps that must be taken to best accomplish the task of deodorization.

When working on restoration deodorization, our SERVPRO team follows four main procedures to return your house to preloss conditions.

1. Remove The Odor's Source
If items got burnt during the blaze, we start by removing the charred materials. For example, if your contents got torched, we dispose of them so that malodor particles coming from them do not spread to your building materials. Soot can also be a source of pungent smells. Therefore we can take steps to remove the residues left behind by smoke.

2. Clean Odor-Causing Residues From Surfaces
Soot residues and soils can adhere to surfaces inside your home and become a source for burnt aromas. Cleaning the soot from affected surfaces can help reduce the presence of malodor particles. We can remove soot residues by using specialized chemicals and cleaning techniques.

3. Re-Create The Conditions Of Odor Penetration
Since smoke can penetrate deeply into some items, the best way to deodorize can often be to mimic the behavior of smoke. We can use heavy-duty fogging machines that break down deodorants into small particles that can penetrate porous materials in the same way the smoke did.

4. Seal Surfaces As Needed
Sometimes smoke can penetrate wooden materials, and malodor particles can get stuck inside the wood. When this occurs, using a sealant paint can help seal in the malodor particles.

If you ever smell burnt aromas in your house after something burns, call SERVPRO of Clifton at (973) 928-3705. Our goal is always to return your home 100% and make it seem, “Like it never even happened.”

For more about Clifton click here.

We Act Fast To Limit More Damage To Your Little Falls Home

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

We have the equipment, expertise and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. Call us right away to prevent further damage.

Get Professional Fire Damage Cleanup in Little Falls for Items that Require Special Care

House fires are destructive and can start because of faulty electrical wiring or equipment. Even after extinguishing a fire, damage to your property and possessions continues. It is therefore, critical to prevent further destruction by calling professionals who have expertise in dealing with smoke, soot, and odor.

You can call SERVPRO to assist you in cleaning up your fire damaged Little Falls residence. We can assess the destruction that the flames, smoke, soot, or water has caused. Once we determine the amount of damage, we can come up with an estimate for cleaning up and restoring your house. A fire can ruin your home in many ways, including the following:

· Smoke may discolor the walls in a few minutes.

· Finishes on kitchen appliances may discolor within a few hours.

· Smoke can tarnish metal or cause etching in the glass after a short time.

· Smoke and ash can continue causing corrosion to materials the flames did not ruin.

Our technicians can remove smoke, soot, ash, and other residues that could have built up on different surfaces before they spread. We can also use deodorization products to remove unpleasant odors from curtains, carpets, and upholstered furniture. During the cleanup process, some items such as clothes, toys, jewelry, and food require special care. We use special cleaning procedures when cleaning such things.

Most clothes are made of artificial fibers and therefore smoke odor molecules, and smoke particles can bond with fabrics if you do not clean them quickly. To organize garment restoration, we recommend that you make three groups of clothes, namely:

· The clothes you need immediately

· The clothes you need at a later date

· Seasonal clothes

We inventory clothes before removing them from the fire damaged worksite. We take multiple steps to clean and deodorize clothing items, including removing them from metal hangers to prevent oxidization, eliminating loose, dry residues from fabrics, and spraying the garments with solvent-based odor counteracts.

When restoring toys, we do our best to ensure that we return them to a condition that is safe for children to play with them. We clean and sanitize toys, and if we have any doubts about their safety, we dispose of them.

The flames and heat of a fire can ruin foods, making them unsafe to consume. Our technicians dispose of food items that heat damage or smoke particles have ruined. We also evaluate canned foods to determine if they were too close to smoke and heat. We recommend disposing of food items that have discolored or scorched labels after you have inventoried them. Our SERVPRO technicians can also help you file your insurance claim using our contents claim inventory service (CCIS). The process involves identifying the salvageable and unsalvageable items and showing their value for easier settlements.

If you need fire damage cleanup services for items requiring special care, call SERVPRO of Clifton at (973) 928-3705. We are dedicated to professionalism and can meet your needs in Clifton, Woodland Park, and neighboring areas. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

See more about Little Falls.

Addressing Fire Damage In Your Little Falls Home

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

Our experts can make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Damage Debris Removal You Can Do For Your Little Falls Home

While professional fire debris removal is a coverage option that most Little Falls homeowners have in their insurance policy, you might find that you would rather not risk potentially raising your premiums for moderate cleanup and recovery efforts. Addressing an initial task like debris removal involves much more than cleaning affected areas, as there are potential hazards that can exist with this DIY as well.

Even with some potential pitfalls, many homeowners can often address fire damage to Little Falls properties provided that the situation does not get out of control. During the initial inspection and assessment of the property after extinguishment occurs, you should keep an eye out for a few specific situations that could become problematic:

Structural Weakness
You cannot always tell when specific areas of your home have become unsafe to support your weight, or are hanging on by only a small amount of material before a collapse occurs. If you must perform an assessment instead of professionals like our SERVPRO team, tread carefully.

The Concentration of Soot
Soot is a severe effect that can exist after extinguishment and land on surfaces and contents. These conditions are very challenging to clean without staining and smearing, but airborne soot particulates can also present a potentially hazardous condition for those exposed.

The Wishes of Your Insurance Company
You might determine shortly after a fire gets extinguished to pursue a damage claim, and many insurance providers want experienced professionals like our SERVPRO technicians providing a damage assessment and catalog of losses from the property.

DIY assessment and debris removal can save a homeowner time and money if they have a good understanding of what their property needs and are careful to address all of the damaged areas. Unresolved symptoms and damages can present health and structural risks that might not appear immediately.

While there are many ways that you can save money by addressing specific aspects of fire loss incidents on your own, it is crucial to understand your limitations and the severity of the disaster. Our SERVPRO of Clifton team is here when you need us. Our experts can make it “Like it never even happened.” by calling (973) 928-3705.

For more about Little Falls click here.

Candle Safety During the Holidays and Throughout the Year

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! SERVPRO of Clifton 973-928-3705

Candles are a beautiful addition to any holiday decor, but if not properly used, they can be cause serious damage to your home.  Candle fires are four times more likely to occur during the winter holidays than any other time throughout the year. The top 3 holidays for candle fires were Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day with the month of December being the peak month when candle fire incidents nearly doubled. 

Following these candle safety tips to keep you and your family fire-safe during the holiday season and throughout the year:

• Use sturdy candle holders that won’t tip over easily and are made from a material that cannot burn, such as metal, ceramic or glass and are large enough to collect dripping wax.
• When lighting candles, be sure to keep your hair and loose clothing away from the flame.
• Protect candle flames with glass covers/chimneys or containers.
• Extinguish all candles when leaving the room or going to sleep.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from things that can burn/catch fire, like clothing, books, curtains, silk and dried flower arrangements, holiday decorations and Christmas trees.
• People are fascinated by a flickering candle and children and pets are no exception, therefore, keep children and pets away from burning candles.
  • NEVER leave a child or pet unsupervised in a room with a lighted candle.
  • Keep matches and lighters safely out of a child’s reach, preferably in a locked cabinet
• Keep candles and all open flames away from flammable liquids.
• NEVER use a candle when oxygen is present.
• Keep candle wicks trimmed to 1/4 inch and extinguish the flame when they get to within 2 inches of the holder.
• Votives and containers should be extinguished before the last ½ inch of wax starts to melt.
• For emergency lighting, use flashlights NEVER use candles.

Flameless candles are fire-safe, However when using flameless candles, remember to secure the battery compartment and keep them out of reach of children.

Have a wonderful and SAFE holiday season ~ From SERVPRO of Clifton

973-928-3705

Fire Restoration Process

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Fire, Smoke or Soot Damage? Call SERVPRO of Clifton Today 973-928-3705

After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Your Belongings and Fire Damage

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Clifton Professionals understand your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings are the very things that make a house a home.

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Clifton Professionals specialize in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Their expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. They pretest your belongings to determine what items they can restore to pre-fire condition. They use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Clifton Professionals can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. A move-out has several benefits, including:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, they will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage. 

Electronic Cleanup

Fire-damaged electronics can present a serious hazard. Do not attempt to turn on or operate any electrical device that you suspect has been damaged by fire. Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces. If the residues are not removed, corrosion causes electronic failure in the device. A SERVPRO of Clifton will coordinate the restoration of your electronics, including:

• Television sets
• DVD players
• Computers
• And more

The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. Electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician.

Document / Photograph Drying

When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water or fire, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the fire damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-fire damage condition, SERVPRO of Clifton Professionals can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. Learn more about our document restoration services.

Depending on the type of documents and the level of fire, smoke, or soot damage, they have five options for the restoration of documents:

1. Air Drying
2. Dehumidification
3. Freezer Drying
4. Vacuum Freeze Drying
5. Vacuum Thermal Drying

Contents Claim Inventory Service

When a fire emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. SERVPRO of Clifton Professionals can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings. They take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding. Learn more about the Contents Claim Inventory Service.

Our Contents Claim Inventory Service:

• Pre-loss list and value of contents
• Detailed and accurate report
• Better information to settle claims quicker
• Assistance with burden of proof for claims
• Peace of mind when you need it most!

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call SERVPRO of Clifton Today

973-928-3705

Fire Up Your Summer - Not Your Home

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Clifton Wishes You a Happy and Safe Summer 973-928-3705

Summertime Fire Safety Tips

Are you going on summer vacation this season? Do you enjoy roasting marshmallows by the campfire on those chilly summer nights? Nothing’s better than a summer filled with fun activities, but it is important to be aware of fire hazards and the various risks that come with them.  For instance, did you know that in the United States alone approximately 5,000 homes and forests are destroyed by fire every day during the summer season? It is vital to be prepared and learn the numerous ways in which you can prevent a fire from ruining your summer.

Here are a few easy fire safety tips that you can implement while still enjoying your summer activities.

Campfire Safety

Whether you’re on a camping trip or in your backyard, making s’mores and telling scary stories by the campfire is one of the best ways to end a summer night. Unfortunately, if campfires aren’t controlled properly they can be extremely dangerous. Follow these fire safety tips the next time you decide to have a campfire.

• Build the campfire where it won’t spread. Don’t build under hanging tree branches or near grassy areas and dry leaves.
• Keep lighter fluid far away from the campfire as stray flames might ignite the fluid.
• If a tent is nearby, make sure that you place the fire downwind from the tent.
• Large campfires might be visually appealing, but they aren’t safe. Keep the fire small, so you can control it.
• Never leave the fire unattended. Always properly put the fire out before leaving the premises.
• Extinguish the fire by pouring water on it and use a shovel to bury the fire with ashes and dirt.

Summer Travel

Summer is the perfect time to take a trip with your family or friends, but if you don’t take the proper precautions your house could catch fire while you’re away. This is a frightening thought, but it can easily be prevented by following these fire safety tips. 

• Make sure that your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms work properly.
• Unplug all electronics and appliances (computers, window air conditioners, etc.). 1 in 10 home fires are caused by an electronical malfunction.
• Never let a cord run under rugs or furniture especially if the wire is torn.
• Put a timer on your house lights to be on at night. Suspicious fires can come from vandalism to a home while the homeowners and residents are out of town.

Outdoor safety

• Position grills at least 10 feet away from your home, and never place under low hanging tree branches or plants. When disposing of hot coals, drench them with water to make sure the fire is out.

• Obey burn bans. Never burn trash, leaves, or brush outdoors if there is a burn ban. If you can burn these items, have a water source readily available.
• Store flammable liquids such as gasoline, poisons, and other flammables safely outdoors. If possible, store them in a building not connected to your home.
• Use caution when parking vehicles on dry grass or brush as a hot exhaust could start a fire.

Indoor safety

• Replace your AC air filters regularly and never use an extension cord for a window AC unit.

• Keep the stove clean. Grease build-up can trigger a fire when contact with heat or a flame is made.

• Inspect your attic or basement for damaged wires. Rodents and insects can chew on and damage wiring, which can lead to an electrical fire.

• Take power surges and blown fuses in your home seriously. Flickering lights or occasional power

• surges could indicate a short somewhere in your home. Have it checked by an electrician.

Personal choices

• Have cigarette smokers take it outside. Provide sand-filled containers to place cigarette butts, and make sure butts are completely extinguished.

• Develop a family fire escape plan and practice it once a month so everyone in the household knows what to do in case of fire.

• Install smoke detectors in your home and test them monthly. Replace batteries at least once a year.

By knowing and practicing summer fire safety tips, you can enjoy many wonderful time this season filled with fun, happiness and safety.

HAPPY SUMMER FROM,

SERVPRO of Clifton ~ 973-928-3705

Emergency Fire Damage Guidelines

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

What Can You Do Until Help Arrives?

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What to Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT to Do After a Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Have A Fire or Smoke Damage Emergency?
Call SERVPRO of Clifton

973-928-3705

Fourth of July Fireworks Safety

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

Happy 4th of July from SERVPRO of Clifton

The 4th of July is just around the corner, check out more Firework Safety Facts from our friends at the National Fire Protection Association #NFPA

According to NFPA, each July Fourth, thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks. Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand the associated risks - devastating burns, other injuries, fires, and even death.

BE CAREFUL!

• Be safe. If you want to see fireworks, go to a public show put on by experts.
• Do not use consumer fireworks.
• Keep a close eye on children at events where fireworks are used.

FACTS

• Fireworks cause an average of almost 18,500 reported fires per year.
• Sparklers account for roughly one-quarter of emergency room fireworks injuries.

CONSUMER FIREWORKS

NFPA is opposed to consumer use of fireworks. This includes sparklers and firecrackers. Even sparklers burn hot enough to cause third-degree burns.

For additional firework safety info.  Please click the link below:

NFPA FIREWORK SAFETY INFO

STAY SAFE THIS 4TH OF JULY!

~Your Friends at SERVPRO of Clifton

973-928-3705

Is Your Family Safe From Fire During the Winter Months?

12/26/2017 (Permalink)

There are steps you can take to reduce the risk of fire in your home and ensure that you would be alerted to any emergency and able to escape.

Wood Stoves and Fireplaces

• Have your chimney and fireplace cleaned and inspected yearly.  The inspection should be done by a professional chimney sweep.
• Burn only dry, well-seasoned hardwood t minimize chimney or flue buildups.  Do not burn trash or plastic.

Space Heaters

• Be sure to keep all combustibles, including furniture, curtains, papers, etc. at least 3 feet away from space heaters.
• Check all portable heater power cords to be sure they aren't frayed, cracked or get hot when plugged in.  If so, do not use.
• NEVER use extension cords with portable heaters.
• Always turn portable heaters off when the family is out of the house or when everyone is sleeping.
• Make sure your portable electric heater is UL approved, has a temperature control and is equipped with tip-over shut off protection.

Electrical Outlets and Cords

• Overloaded outlets and extensions can cause fires.
• Only purchase UL approved extension cords.
• Select the proper extension cord of the correct length and gauge for the intended use.  
• Never cut or splice extension for any reason. 
• Electrical cords should never be run under rugs or be coiled up because they are too long.  Doing it will cause the cord to overheat and potentially cause a fire.
• Use covers to protect children from possibility of getting shocked by unused outlets
• Have a licensed electrician install ground fault circuit interrupter outlets in outside locations and any inside locations where water is present such as in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms

Cooking

Never leave stovetop cooking unattended

• If you have a stovetop grease fire:
  • Turn the burner off and cover the pan with a lid to cut off the oxygen to the fire.  Let the pan cool before removing the lid.
  • Never try to take a burning pan to the sink
  • Never use water on a grease fire
  • Use a fire extinguisher rated for grease fires only if you are trained.  If you stand too close and use the fire extinguisher, you can spread the flaming grease all over the kitchen.
• If you have an oven fire:
  • Turn the oven off
  • Keep the door closed until the fire is out and the oven cools.

Never leave an oven door open to heat a room.  The oven can overheat and catch fire.

Smoke Detectors

• When there is a fire, seconds count.  Working smoke detectors not only provide early warning of a fire, but they can more than double your chance of surviving.  Smoke detectors can mean the difference between life and death.
• It is recommended that smoke detectors be installed on every level of your home, outside each sleeping area and in each bedroom.
• Smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month. 
• Change smoke detector batteries twice a year.  A good way to remember to do this is to change your batteries in the fall and spring when you change the clocks for day-light savings.
• Smoke and CO detectors should be replaced with updated detectors every ten years.

Home Escape Plans

Why do I need an escape plan?

Most fatal home fires happen between midnight and 8am, when people are asleep.  When your smoke detector sounds, you may have less than 2 1/2 to get out.  Every family needs an escape plan.

• Have a family meeting to make your plan and to be sure everyone knows it.  A good plan includes knowing two ways out of every room and having a family meeting place outside your home.
• Drill your escape plan at least twice a year.
• Once you are safely out of your home, stay out.
• Call 911 from a neighbor's house or other location.

7 Methods To Prevent a House Fire

10/18/2017 (Permalink)

House fires kill and injure thousands yearly, and cost many more their valued possessions and memories. Here are some steps you can take to lessen the chance of your home becoming a part of this statistic.

Method 1: Checking the House

1. Inspect your home. You may need to recruit, or even hire, someone experienced in home electrical wiring, plumbing (gas), heating, and air conditioning to ensure that it is thoroughly inspected. You can also do the checks outlined in the following steps.
2. Check the condition of your home's electrical system 

• Look for improperly grounded receptacles. Many modern appliances require a "three pronged" (grounded) receptacle, but people will sometimes use an adapter to bypass this safety feature, or even break a ground prong off an appliance cord. Changing existing circuits to provide grounding is a job that is best left to a professional electrician.
• Look in the attic and crawl spaces for wiring which has been damaged by pests or insects. Some old wiring is insulated with a material which insects eat or chew on, and squirrels or other rodents will often chew the thermoplastic insulation off of modern nonmetallic cable (Romex).
• Look for overloaded circuit breakers, panel boxes, or fuse boxes. Check for breakers or fuses which may have circuits "piggy-backed" on them. These are rated for single circuit protection, but sometimes in outdated or undersized panel boxes, people will put two or even more wires in the terminal of a single breaker or fuse.
• Notice flickering lights, or intermittent power surges. These conditions may be caused by outside influences, but if they occur often, they may indicate a bad connection or a short in the circuit.
• Note breakers which trip, or fuses that blow frequently. This is almost always a sign of an overloaded circuit or other wiring problem, usually of a most serious nature.
• Look at the individual breaker connections, especially in outdoor panel boxes, for corrosion, signs of thermal damage (smut or smokey residue near terminals) splices which are poorly taped or wire nutted, or abraded or damaged wire insulation.
• Check the ground cable. A failure in the building grounding system and bonding can be dangerous in regard to electrical shock, as well as fire. Look for loose split bolts, clamps, or other connecting devices, and corrosion.
• Be especially careful to notice any connections in wiring other than copper. Installed correctly, and with tight connections, aluminum wire is not excessively dangerous, but when connections are made to copper wires, an electrolytic reaction may occur, causing increased resistance in the connection which will generate excessive heat. If you are able to apply an antioxidant compound to aluminum connections, it will help decrease the risk of oxidation causing a short circuit at these locations.

3. Check the natural gas/LP gas system in your home. You will want to look for loose fittings, leaking valves, faulty pilot lights, and debris or improperly stored flammable materials in areas near these appliances.

• Check the vent stacks on gas water heaters, furnaces, and clothes dryers.
• Check the automatic ignition systems or pilot lights on these fixtures, as well, particularly for any guards which are not properly installed, and for lint or dust buildup in the immediate area around them.
• Have the gas plumbing (pipes), valves, and regulators inspected by a professional any time you smell gas or suspect a leak.

 4. Check the air conditioning and heating unit in your home.  These systems operate with electric motors and air moving equipment which requires periodic maintenance.

• Clean, or have your interior AC coils cleaned, and replace your return air filters regularly. This will prevent the fan motor from being overworked, and also save money on your energy bill. For window air conditioners, never use extension cords!
• Lubricate belt drive pulleys (where applicable), boss bearings on drive motors, and other equipment as needed.
• Have the resistance coils or furnace burners cleaned and serviced at the beginning of the heating season, since debris may accumulate there while the system is off during the summer.
• Listen to the system when it is operating. Squealing sounds, rumbling noises, or banging and tapping sounds may indicate loose parts or bearings which are seizing up.
• If you have access to a snap-on amp meter, you may check the amperage draw on the high amperage circuit to your heating coils to make sure they are in the normal operating range. Higher than normal amperage draw on a circuit indicates unusual resistance, and in an electrical circuit, resistance is what causes heat, and ultimately, fires.

Method 2: Checking and Safe Use of Household Items

1. Check your appliances

• Keep your stove and oven clean, especially watching for grease accumulation.
• Check stove vent hoods, clean the filter regularly, and make sure that if it is equipped with an exterior vent, insects or birds do not build nests or otherwise impede the air flow through it.
• Check the power cords for your appliances. Look for missing grounding prongs on the plugs and damaged insulation, and replace or repair them if defects are found.
• Keep the lint trap and outside vent clean in your clothes dryer. Some dryers have internal ductwork which may become clogged and require servicing, so if the dryer is operating poorly, have it checked. Lint or other material collecting near the heat coils in clothes dryers is extremely dangerous. Stay nearby while using the dryer. Have a smoke alarm and fire extinguisher nearby. If you must leave the area for a minute, turn off the dryer. After all, you are not going to be away long, and you can immediately turn the dryer on when you return.

2. Be very careful with space heaters.

• Keep flammable materials (curtains, the couch) a safe distance (usually 3 feet) from portable heaters.
• Set heaters where they are not in the traffic flow of the room.
• As a rule, extension cords are not recommended with space heaters. Small, low wattage heaters may be an exception, but check the manufacturer's recommendations prior to using an extension cord with one. Be safe, just don't use extension cords.
• Use space heaters only on solid, firm surfaces. They should never be placed on tables, chairs or other places where they may tip over. Replace old space heaters with ones that will automatically turn off if tipped over.
• Do not drape fabric over lamps to dim them. Either buy a lower wattage bulb, or turn the lamp off.

3. Avoid using extension cords for air conditioners. An overheated cord is like an out-of-control electric heater.

4. Maintain your fireplace correctly.

• Inspect the fire box (hearth) for cracks, damaged sheet metal (for inserts) and other hazards.
• Use glass fire doors or a wire mesh spark screen to prevent embers from popping out of the fireplace.
• Burn dry, seasoned wood to prevent creosote buildup in the chimney. Note that some woods, like cedar, pop excessively when burned, and should not be used in an open fireplace.
• Remove ash and unscorched wood only when there are no embers or sparks in the fire box. Place ash in a metal (not a plastic bucket) and place outside away from any buildings.
• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned at least once a year.

5. Keep flammable liquids away from ignition sources. 

• Keep gasoline, paint thinners, and other highly flammable liquids or materials in UL approved containers and out of the house.
• Do not store any flammable liquid in a garage or utility room with that has a pilot light equipped appliance in use in it. Be safe, keep these items outdoors, or in a separate outbuilding.

 6. Be very careful in any situation where you use an extension cord for extended periods of time. Often, foot traffic, moving furniture, and other hazards damage these cords, causing a potential for a fire. Holiday decorations are often lit for weeks with these cords, and if you are using them, use a high quality cord with a sufficient rating for the intended purpose.

Method 3: Kitchen Safety

1. Stay in the kitchen when using the range for cooking. If you are leaving for just a minute, turn off all the burners on the range. Going to the basement for a can of tomatoes, or running out to check the mail, going to the bathroom, answering the phone in another part of the house? Simply turn off all the burners. After all, you are just leaving for a minute. You can immediately turn the pot or frying pan back on when you return. Taking this simple step will prevent one of the most common situations that cause house fires: unattended cooking. 

• When cooking with oil, keep a lid or flat cookie sheet close by. If flames appear, simply suffocate the fire with the lid and immediately turn off the stove or fryer to let it cool down. Do not try to move the pan. Do not use water. The super-heated water will explode into steam, and can cause severe burns, and oil can splash and spread the fire.

2. Don't cook when drinking alcohol, using drugs, or very tired. Eat something already prepared, make a cold sandwich, and go to sleep. Cook your meal later, when you are fully conscious

3. Ensure tea cloths, tea towels dish rags etc are never left on the hob or burner. Never hang towels etc where they may fail onto a flame or hot surface.

Method 4: Taking Care in Daily Activities 

1. Don't sit or lie down when smoking. Standing up will usually prevent you from falling asleep while smoking. Getting too tired? Put out the cigarette thoroughly in an ashtray or water-damp sink and go to bed. Do not smoke in bed - when you're in bed it's easy to fall asleep and drop your cigarette on the floor allowing it to set fire to the carpet. Cleaning out the ashtray? Place the ashes in the sink and dampen them, then scoop them up and place them in the trash can away from the house.

2. Take care when drying laundry on airers or dryers by the fire. Try not to do this unless totally unavoidable. Dry clothes by radiators, or outdoors if possible.

3. Be careful with candles, oil lamps, and other open flame illumination or decorations. Cover the flame with a wire cage to prevent something from falling or blowing onto the flame, and to prevent children and pets from coming in contact with the flame. Extinguish any naked flames when leaving the room, if even for a minute. After all, you'll be right back, and you can immediately relight the candle or lamp.

4. Use caution with holiday decorations, particularly Christmas trees. Natural Christmas trees are highly combustible when they become dry, and old, damaged, or low quality tree lights cause many fires when combined with an under watered or otherwise dry tree. Watch a video of a Christmas tree fire. It is amazing how fast it can destroy a room, and a home.

5. After using matches, quickly place in or run under water to extinguish any invisible flame or heat source that could cause a fire in the trash can.

6. Take care using chargers for devices such as mobile phones. Unplug chargers when not in use.

7. Unplug hair straighteners, curling irons and other similar appliances after use. Don't just turn them off at the socket or switch the device itself off, unplug it.

Method 5: Outdoor Safety

1. Do not pile up lawn clippings near a building. Fermenting lawn clippings can create heat, and catch on fire. Barn fires start this way from bales of hay with no electricity; house fires have been started from a pile of lawn clippings.

2. Be careful using a grill on a deck. Decks are flammable. Place non-flammable pads under your grill. Have a fire extinguisher readily available. Stay with your grill while cooking. Turn off propane if leaving, if even for a minute. After all, you'll be right back and can turn on the propane again.

Method 6: Pet Safety

1. Crate train dogs. Use the crates when you are not home and when you're not awake, to prevent new dogs or puppies from chewing on electrical cords. This will also prevent pets from urinating on electrical objects and starting a fire.

2. Confine new cats to a safe room, a small room with no places for the cat to crawl into to hide (such as into the refrigerator motor), and no electrical cords. Use the safe room until the cat is calm and no longer hiding. Provide cats with edible oat or wheat grass, to prevent them from chewing on electrical cords.

• Confine rabbits, chinchillas, and other pets when not supervising them, to prevent them from chewing on electrical cords, causing burns or electrical fires.

Method 7: Installing Fire Prevention Tools and Teaching Fire Safety

1. Install and maintain smoke detectors. Rental properties in many countries must have smoke detectors. If you have them in your home, keep them in good working order and if you don't have any, get some, or ask your landlord to install some.

2. Look into the possibility of installing a lightning protection system in your home if you live in an area where lightning is a frequent problem. The savings from reduced damages to appliances may offset the cost of this upgrade.

3. Consider having a home sprinkler system installed. This can be used to extinguish fires both when you are away and at home.

4. Teach your children not to play with lighters or matches. Children are often both the cause and victims of fires, and should not be allowed access to matches or cigarette lighters. Consider getting a lockable box, and keeping matches and lighters locked up.

Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives

10/16/2017 (Permalink)

Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have specialized fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet.

Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives

Recovering After a Fire

10/16/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Clifton ~ 973-928-3705

4 Steps to Take Immediately After a Home Fire

1. Call 9-1-1. Give first aid where needed; cool and cover burns to reduce the chance of further injury or infection.
2. Let friends and family know you're safe.
3. People and animals that are seriously injured or burned should be transported to professional medical or veterinary help immediately.
4. Stay out of fire-damaged homes until local fire authorities say it is safe to re-enter.

Returning Home After Fire

Stay safe when returning to your home after a fire:

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.

Cleaning up and removing smoke odor after a home fire

To remove soot and smoke from walls, furniture and floors, structure, etc. call the professionals at SERVPRO of Clifton. We are always available to get you back-to-new.

SERVPRO of Clifton - 973-928-3705

How To Keep Your Summer BBQ From Going Up In Flames

7/20/2017 (Permalink)

Keep your BBQ fro going up in flames!

Keep Your Summer Safe With These Summer BBQ Safety Tips

• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grill and the tray below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.  Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill placed away from the hoe, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• If using charcoal, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.
• If using propane, check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year.
• If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department.
• If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least 15 minutes before re-lighting it.

Have a Fun and Safe Summer from all of us at SERVPRO of Clifton

973-928-3705

4th of July Fire Safety Tips

7/3/2017 (Permalink)

Have a Happy and SAFE 4th of July SERVPRO of Clifton 973-928-3705

Be Safe this 4th of July

GRILL SAFETY

Grill Fire Facts:

• Happen between the time of 5-8pm
• In homes with 1-2 families
• The month of July has the highest rate
• Happen in enclosed areas

Ways to Prevent Grill Fires:

• Use only outdoor, specifically away from your home, deck railings, out from eaves and overhanging branches
• Keep children and pets away, enforce the 3ft. grilling zone rule
• Never leave your grill unattended
• Keep it clean

FIREWORK SAFETY

Firework Facts:

• On average 240 people go to the emergency room for firework injuries around the 4th
• Top two injuries from fireworks include hands & fingers (36%) and head, face & ear (22%)
• Fireworks in brown paper are often made for professional displays

*Make sure fireworks are legal in your area

Firework Safety Tips:

• For young children & teens, parental guidance is advised with both fireworks and sparklers.
• Never place your body part directly over a firework and after lighting always back up a safe distance
• Keep a bucket or garden hose handy in case of fire use
• Use fireworks outdoors only and in an open space not pointed towards homes or people

CAMPFIRES SAFETY

Campfire No-No's:

• Do not build a fire around dangerous materials, power lines, buildings, vehicles, or dry grass
• Never leave a fire unattended and always keep it tamed
• Never burn dangerous materials such as aerosol cans or glass

Campfire Fire Safety:

• Set a safe 3ft perimeter around fire, away from flammable materials such as trash and leaves
• Supervise children like you would at a pool and teach them proper fire safety
• Extinguish fires properly

SERVPRO of Clifton 973-928-3705

Preventing Electrical Fires in the Home

6/5/2017 (Permalink)

Keep your home fire safe SERVPRO of Clifton

Be Fire Smart with Electricity Throughout Your Home

Facts:

There are more then 45,000 home electrical fires each year

About half of these involve lighting equipment or home electrical wiring.

Home electrical deaths peak between midnight and 6am

Peak months for electrical fire deaths are December through March.

Tips to prevent electrical fires in the home:

Appliances

• Always plug major appliances, like refrigerators, stoves, washers and dryers, directly into a wall outlet


• Never use an extension cord with a major appliance - it can easily overheat and start a fire


• Always plug small appliances directly into a wall outlet


• Unplug mall appliances when you are not using them


• Keep lamps, light fixtures and light bulbs way from anything that can burn


• Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on the lamp or fixture


• Check electrical cords on appliances often.  Replace cracked, damaged and loose electrical cords.  Do not try to repair them.

Outlets

• Do not overload wall outlets


• Insert plugs fully into sockets


• Never force a three prong cord into a two-slot outlet


• Install tamper-resistant electrical outlet if you have young children

Extension Cords, Power Strips and Surge Protectors 

• Replace worn, old or damaged extension cords right away


• Use extension cords for temporary purposes only


• Avoid putting cords where they can be damaged or pinched, like under a carpet or rug


• Do not overload power strips


• Use power strips that have internal overload protection

Make sure all electrical work in your home is done by a qualified electrician!

October Fire Prevention Month - Recovering After a Fire

10/5/2016 (Permalink)

Stay safe when returning to your home after a fire

4 Steps to Take Immediately After a Home Fire

1. Call 9-1-1. Give first aid where needed; cool and cover burns to reduce the chance of further injury or infection.
2. Let friends and family know you’re safe.
3. People and animals that are seriously injured or burned should be transported to professional medical or veterinary help immediately.
4. Stay out of fire-damaged homes until local fire authorities say it is safe to re-enter.

Returning Home After Fire

Stay safe when returning to your home after a fire:

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.

Cleaning up and removing smoke odor after a home fire

To remove soot and smoke from walls, furniture and floors, structure, etc. call the profresionals at SERVPRO of Clifton. We are always available to get you back to -new.

SERVPRO of Clifton - 973-928-3705

October Fire Prevention Month - What to do if a Fire Starts

10/5/2016 (Permalink)

Know what to do if a fire starts

Tips from the American Red Cross on What to do 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.

 SERVPRO of Clifton - 973-928-3705

October is National Fire Prevention Month - Prepare an Prevent Home Fires

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

October is Fire Prevention Month

The 7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire According to the American Red Cross

1. Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
2. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
3. Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
4. Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
5. Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire“ to alert everyone that they must get out.
6. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
7. Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

SERVPRO of Clifton - 973-928-3705