Top Causes of House Fires and How to Prevent Them

7/12/2024 (Permalink)

Aftermath of a house fire

House fires can be devastating, but many are preventable with the right precautions. Understanding the top causes of house fires and how to prevent them can help keep your home and loved ones safe.

Cooking-Related Fires

1. Cause: Unattended cooking is the leading cause of house fires.
2. Prevention: Never leave the kitchen while cooking, keep flammable items away from the stove, and use timers as reminders.

Heating Equipment

1. Cause: Space heaters and fireplaces can ignite nearby materials.
2. Prevention: Keep heaters at least three feet away from flammable objects, and use screens or glass doors on fireplaces.

Electrical Fires

1. Cause: Faulty wiring, overloaded outlets, and outdated electrical systems can spark fires.
2. Prevention: Hire a licensed electrician to inspect your home's wiring, avoid overloading outlets, and replace damaged cords.

Smoking

1. Cause: Cigarettes and other smoking materials can cause fires if not properly extinguished.
2. Prevention: Smoke outside, use deep ashtrays, and ensure smoking materials are fully extinguished before disposal.

Candles

1. Cause: Unattended candles can ignite surrounding objects.
2. Prevention: Never leave candles unattended, keep them away from flammable items, and use flameless candles as a safe alternative.

Appliances and Equipment

1. Cause: Faulty or misused appliances can overheat and start fires.
2. Prevention: Regularly inspect and maintain appliances, unplug them when not in use, and follow manufacturer instructions.

Flammable Liquids

1. Cause: Improper storage or use of flammable liquids like gasoline and cleaning agents.
2. Prevention: Store flammable liquids in approved containers and keep them away from heat sources.

Conclusion

Awareness and prevention are key to reducing the risk of house fires. By understanding the top causes and taking proactive measures, you can protect your home and loved ones from the devastating effects of a fire. Remember, safety first!

Steps to Take After Experiencing Fire Damage

2/9/2024 (Permalink)

Experiencing a house fire can be a devastating and traumatic event, but with the right knowledge and action plan, you can start the journey towards recovery. At Team Shaw, we understand the challenges that come with fire damage and are here to guide you through the process of restoration. In this blog post, we'll provide detailed and actionable tips for what to do after experiencing fire damage, as well as best practices for preventing house fires altogether.

After Experiencing Fire Damage:

1. Safety First:

   • Before entering your home, ensure that it is safe to do so. Contact local authorities and firefighters to confirm that the fire is completely extinguished and that the structure is stable.
   • Wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves, masks, and sturdy shoes, to protect yourself from hazards such as debris and smoke residue.

2. Assess the Damage:

   • Once it's safe to enter your home, assess the extent of the fire damage. Take note of areas that are severely affected, including structural damage, charred materials, and smoke residue.
   • Document the damage by taking photos and videos. This documentation will be invaluable for insurance claims and restoration efforts.

3. Contact Professionals:

   • Reach out to experienced professionals like Team Shaw for fire damage restoration services. Our team has the expertise and resources to assess the damage, salvage belongings, and restore your home to its pre-fire condition.
   • Avoid attempting DIY repairs, as improper restoration efforts can worsen the damage and pose safety risks.

4. Secure the Property:

   • Board up windows, doors, and other openings to secure the property and prevent unauthorized access.
   • Cover any exposed areas with tarps or plastic sheeting to protect against further damage from weather elements.

5. Mitigate Smoke Damage:

   • Smoke residue can permeate walls, furniture, and belongings, leading to lingering odors and health hazards. Ventilate the affected area by opening windows and using fans to remove smoke odor and improve air quality.
   • Professional cleaning and deodorization services can effectively remove smoke residue and restore a clean, safe living environment.

6. Dispose of Damaged Items:

   • Dispose of severely damaged or unsalvageable items properly. This may include furniture, appliances, and personal belongings that have been charred or contaminated by smoke and soot.
   • Work with professionals to handle hazardous materials and ensure proper disposal according to local regulations.

7. Work with Insurance:

   • Contact your insurance provider to report the fire damage and initiate the claims process. Provide thorough documentation, including photos, videos, and inventory lists of damaged items.
   • Keep records of all communication with your insurance company and any expenses incurred during the restoration process.

Best Practices for Preventing House Fires:

1. Install Smoke Alarms:

   • Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and inside each bedroom. Test smoke alarms regularly and replace batteries as needed.

2. Practice Fire Safety:

   • Avoid leaving cooking appliances unattended while in use. Keep flammable materials such as dish towels and curtains away from stovetops.
   • Never leave candles burning unattended, and keep them away from flammable materials.
   • Use caution when using space heaters, ensuring they are placed on a stable surface away from flammable materials and turned off when not in use.

3. Maintain Electrical Systems:

   • Inspect electrical outlets, wiring, and appliances regularly for signs of wear or damage. Replace frayed cords and malfunctioning appliances promptly.
   • Avoid overloading electrical outlets and extension cords, and use surge protectors when necessary.

4. Practice Caution with Smoking Materials:

   • If you smoke, do so outdoors and use designated ashtrays. Ensure that cigarette butts are fully extinguished before disposal.
   • Never smoke in bed or while drowsy, as it increases the risk of accidental fires.

5. Have an Escape Plan:

   • Create a fire escape plan for your family and practice it regularly. Identify multiple escape routes from each room and establish a meeting point outside the home.

By following these steps and implementing best practices for fire prevention, you can help protect your home and loved ones from the devastating effects of house fires. Remember, Team Shaw is here to support you in the event of fire damage, providing professional restoration services and helping you rebuild and recover. Stay safe and prepared!

How Fire Restoration Services Work in North Texas

2/7/2024 (Permalink)

When the unthinkable happens and your home is affected by a fire, you need a trusted partner to help you navigate the aftermath and restore your property to its preloss condition. At Team Shaw, we understand the challenges and complexities of fire restoration, and we're here to provide expert guidance and support every step of the way. 

Why Choose Team Shaw for Fire Restoration

1. Specialized Expertise in Fire Restoration

At Team Shaw, we specialize in fire restoration services, and we have the knowledge, experience, and expertise to effectively mitigate the damage caused by fire and smoke. From assessing the extent of the damage to developing a comprehensive restoration plan, our team of experts is committed to restoring your home to its former glory.

2. State-of-the-Art Equipment and Techniques

We utilize the latest equipment and techniques in fire restoration to ensure the best possible outcomes for our clients. From advanced cleaning solutions to specialized odor removal treatments, we have everything needed to effectively restore your home and belongings to their pre-fire condition.

3. Compassionate and Responsive Service

Dealing with the aftermath of a house fire can be overwhelming and emotionally draining. That's why we're committed to providing compassionate and responsive service to our clients during this challenging time. Our team is here to offer support, guidance, and reassurance as we work together to restore your home and your peace of mind.

4. Comprehensive Restoration Solutions

In addition to fire damage cleanup and restoration, we offer a wide range of comprehensive restoration solutions to address all aspects of the recovery process. From structural repairs and reconstruction to content cleaning and storage, we'll handle every detail so you can focus on rebuilding your life.

Best Practices for Dealing with the Aftermath of a House Fire

In the aftermath of a house fire, it's important to take certain steps to ensure the safety of your home and family and to maximize the effectiveness of the restoration process. Here are some best practices for dealing with the aftermath of a house fire:

• Contact your insurance company to report the fire and initiate the claims process.
• Avoid entering the property until it has been deemed safe by the fire department.
• Document the damage by taking photos and making a list of items that have been damaged or destroyed.
• Contact Team Shaw as soon as possible to begin the fire restoration process and prevent further damage to your property.

By following these best practices and partnering with Team Shaw for fire restoration services, you can rest assured that your home is in good hands. We'll work tirelessly to restore your property and your peace of mind, so you can focus on rebuilding and moving forward.

Why you should contact SERVPRO after a house fire in Fort Worth

2/7/2023 (Permalink)

Structural damage from a house fire in Fort Worth

Experiencing a house fire can be one of the most devastating events in one’s life. In addition to the emotional trauma and feeling of loss, the physical damage caused by a fire can be extensive. If your home has been affected by a fire in the Fort Worth area, you should contact SERVPRO Team Shaw for reliable fire damage restoration services. 

We are experienced and available 24/7

The process of restoring your home after a fire can seem overwhelming. Fortunately, SERVPRO’s team of experienced technicians are available to help you through this difficult time. Our technicians are highly trained and certified to handle any size disaster with speed, efficiency, and compassion. We have the experience and knowledge needed to restore your home to its pre-fire condition safely and efficiently. 

We are dedicated to customer service

SERVPRO is dedicated to providing excellent customer service throughout every step of the process. We will work closely with your insurance company throughout the entire process so that you don’t have to worry about dealing with paperwork or other complicated details. We also provide personalized attention so that we can address all of your concerns quickly and effectively. This means that we will keep you updated on our progress, as well as answer any questions you may have along the way.  

We leverage advanced technology

Using advanced technology and cleaning products, our team will work hard to remove smoke and soot from walls, ceilings, furniture, carpets, and other areas throughout your home quickly and thoroughly. We understand how important it is for families to get back into their homes as soon as possible after a fire, so we strive to complete all repairs within an expedited time frame while still maintaining quality craftsmanship standards. 

If your home has been affected by a fire in Fort Worth, contact SERVPRO Team Shaw today for prompt assistance from our experienced professionals. From initial assessment through cleanup and repair services, we will ensure that each step is completed with accuracy and care. Let us take care of the heavy lifting, so you can focus on putting your family's life back together.

What to know about Fire restoration companies in Fort Worth

1/13/2023 (Permalink)

House on fire

When a home or business suffers a fire, it can be an incredibly difficult and stressful experience. In order to get things back to normal, it is essential to find a reliable fire restoration company. Fortunately for people in Fort Worth, there are plenty of options available. Here's what you need to know about selecting fire restoration companies in Fort Worth.

Research Your Options 

When looking for a fire restoration company in Fort Worth, it is important to do some research first. Look up different companies online and read reviews from past customers. You may also want to call around and ask questions about their services, such as how long the process will take and if they offer any warranties on their work. Taking the time to research your options will help ensure that you find the right company for your specific needs. 

Understand What Services They Offer 

Fire restoration companies typically offer a wide range of services designed to get your home or business back up and running quickly after a fire. These services can include repairing structural damage, cleaning smoke residue from walls and ceilings, restoring furniture and personal belongings, replacing damaged electronics and appliances, providing temporary power sources during repairs, removing debris from the property, installing temporary fencing around the property if necessary, and more. Make sure you understand all of the services offered by each company before making your decision.

Knowledgeable Professionals 

When selecting a fire restoration company in Fort Worth, it is important to look for one that employs knowledgeable professionals with years of experience in this field. Professionals should be well-versed in all aspects of fire safety, as well as have an understanding of local codes and regulations related to building repairs after a fire. This will ensure that your home or business is restored correctly.

Answer Questions & Provide Estimates  

Finally, make sure that any prospective fire restoration companies are willing to answer questions about their services and provide estimates on how much it will cost to restore your home or business after a fire has occurred. This information can help you make an informed decision when selecting a company for your needs.  

Choosing a reputable fire restoration company in Fort Worth doesn’t have to be difficult—as long as you do your research beforehand! Make sure to find out how experienced they are, check their certifications & licenses, ask for references from previous clients, and read online reviews before making your decision. With these steps taken care of ahead of time, repairing and restoring your home after a house fire can become much easier!

Why choose SERVPRO of West Fort Worth for fire damage restoration?

11/23/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO® of West Fort Worth is one of the most trusted fire damage and restoration companies in handling seasonal hazards and restoration during holidays.

A fire damage disaster can be one of the most devastating events to a family. In those first critical hours after the blaze has been extinguished, it is essential for homeowners to take the necessary steps to restore their property and get their life back on track. 

When the home has suffered fire damage due to seasonal hazards and restoration is needed immediately, the best action is to call for professional services from fire damage restoration companies like SERVPRO of West Fort Worth. With their extensive training and years of experience in handling restoration of homes damaged by seasonal hazards such as fires, they are equipped to help the affected families navigate the process from start to finish. 

The team of specialists will work directly with the homeowner’s insurance adjuster to ensure that any claims will be handled quickly and efficiently, relieving the stress from the family in this difficult time. So, if the home has been affected by fire damage, the homeowner can always count on the team for support every step of the way. The team will do all that is necessary to help homeowners get their life back on track as quickly as possible.

Avoid cooking fires throughout the holiday season

Cooking fires have been reported by NFPA to be the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries and the second leading cause of home fire deaths from 2014 to 2018. Although cooking is a regular daily routine for households, it increases during family visits, special occasions, and holiday seasons. Therefore, as the holiday season approaches, it is crucial to be mindful of seasonal hazards in the kitchen.

When working with hot materials and cooking with open flames in the kitchen, it is essential to be aware of the surroundings. Be mindful of the safety protocols and pay close attention to potential sources of fire like grillers, ovens, and open-flame stovetops. Additionally, ensure the kitchen workspace is clear of clutter, which can significantly increase the risk of accidents. It is also wise to have a fire extinguisher placed within reach if a fire breaks out in the cooking area.

If a cooking fire caused by seasonal hazards occurs, call for help immediately. After the fire has been totally extinguished, call for a professional restoration service that can handle cooking fire damage quickly and effectively. They also help reduce any long-term effects a cooking fire may have on the home and its contents. With all these proper precautions, homeowners can enjoy a safe and happy holiday season without worrying about accidents or injury in the kitchen.

3 Tips to prevent a house fire this holiday season

During the holiday season, it is important to be extra vigilant when it comes to fire safety. To prevent a house fire this holiday season, it is essential to be aware of the fire hazards and take steps to avoid them. Some tips include:

1. Keep the kitchen clean and organized. Make sure to wipe down surfaces regularly and keep any flammable items stored safely away from heat sources like stoves and ovens.
2. Use LED lights or other non-flammable ornaments to decorate the home's exterior. Tiered holiday lights often run hot when used continuously, so opt for low-voltage lighting whenever possible to minimize the risk of fire flare-ups. 
3. Have the chimney regularly inspected throughout the winter by a certified professional who can clear any potential blockages and make any necessary repairs before they become dangerous fire hazards. Fires will never be lit with a proper screen or spark guard in place over the fireplace opening. Embers can escape and ignite nearby flammable materials such as paper debris or decorative clutter. 

Why choose SERVPRO of West Fort Worth for fire damage and restoration?

When the home has been affected by seasonal hazards and restoration is needed, homeowners must find a reliable restoration company that they can trust. 

At SERVPRO of West Fort Worth, they understand how stressful these situations can be, and their team of experienced professionals is committed to helping homeowners through this difficult time. The state-of-the-art equipment and years of experience make them well-equipped to handle any seasonal hazard or property damage. Whether it's wind, rain, or fire that has caused the damage, their team of professionals can help regain the home's preloss condition quickly and efficiently, so homeowners can return to their everyday life.

Contact SERVPRO of West Fort Worth for professional fire damage and restoration this holiday season

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth is a trusted business in the community. The company has been around for over 50 years and continues to provide quality cleaning, restoration, and construction services. Their team of specialists, highly trained in clean-up and restoration, aims to help home and business owners with any water damage, fire damage, or mold remediation needs. 

Contact team Shaw of SERVPRO of West Fort Worth at (817) 560-3086 and schedule an appointment today!

What is Back Puffing: Origin and Tips to Avoid Potential Risks

9/14/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of West Fort Worth's expert team explores the common issues that cause back puffing in homes and what homeowners should do when faced with this problem.

During frigid winters, furnaces keep millions of homes toasty warm across the United States. But furnaces come with a little-known risk: back puffing.

Essentially, a puff back is a sudden explosion in a furnace due to vapor buildup. This process forces smoke, soot, and fire to spew out of the furnace and through the home's ducts.

Fire damage from back puffs causes severe damage and requires assistance from a fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of West Fort Worth.

What causes back puffing?

Many factors can trigger a furnace, fireplace, or stove to start back puffing. Back puffs happen most frequently in oil furnaces but can occur in forced-air or gas furnaces.

Some of the most common reasons include:

Dirty or poorly designed pipes

Furnaces require maintenance to function safely. Homeowners should schedule routine maintenance at least once a year and have the furnace professionally cleaned twice a year to remove soot buildup that causes back puffing.

Smoke does best when flowing out of a vertical pipe system. Any turns inside a piping system make it harder for smoke to escape and lead to the vapor buildup that causes back puffing.

Chimney obstructions 

An obstructed chimney results in restricted airflow, causing smoke to build up in a homeowner's piping system. This escalating pressure eventually becomes a back puff, putting the building at risk of fire damage. Chimney obstructions are usually bird nests, branches and twigs, and the occasional wasp nest.

Creosote buildup

When using a fireplace, smoke coats a flue's interior and leaves behind a substance called creosote. Smoke produces more creosote the more a homeowner uses their fireplace. This substance is extremely flammable and reduces a chimney's ability to function correctly. 

Homeowners should regularly have a team sweep their chimneys to prevent obstructions, creosote buildups, and future fire damage.

Too much insulation 

Many homeowners believe that the more insulation, the better. However, a building with too much insulation may lead to a back-puffing furnace. Fire needs oxygen, and too much insulation restricts the airflow necessary to keep the fire going, which creates ideal conditions for a back puff. 

Homeowners can open up a window next to the fire source to see if this takes care of the problem.

What homeowners shouldn't do after a back puff

If a homeowner's furnace has back puffed, there are some things not to do to minimize the fire damage: 

• Don't use items exposed to back-puffing: Homeowners shouldn't use items like furniture or carpeting if excess soot or smoke gets on them.
• Don't turn on electronics before checking them: Homeowners should always have a professional fire damage restoration company inspect electronics like TVs, computers, and stereos to ensure safety.
• Don't attempt DIY soot cleanup: Cleaning smoke and heat often requires expert services. In particular, soot leaves long-lasting stains when homeowners use the wrong cleaning method.

Fire Damage Preventative Measures from SERVPRO 

Back puffing can cause fire damage to a residential or commercial property. Preventative measures are the best way to avoid back puffing and its associated risks. 

For over 50 years, SERVPRO of West Fort Worth has provided expert fire damage restoration and prevention services in Benbrook, TX. Contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of West Fort Worth at (817) 560-3086 to learn more!

Firework Safety and Keeping Pets Safe

7/17/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of West Fort WorthSERVPRO’s fire damage prevention team explains several fire safety tips, how to keep pets safe around fireworks, and outlines available restoration and safety services.

Firework Safety Tips To Keep Pets Safe

Once summer kicks off, many enjoy beautiful fireworks displays. However, fireworks injure around 11,500 people in the United States each year and may wreak havoc on pets.

With this in mind, fire and water damage may occur this summer. When they do, contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of West Fort Worth at (817) 560-3086 for high-quality fire and water damage restoration and commercial cleaning services.

Overview of Fire Safety

Fire safety is of the utmost importance all summer long. Unfortunately, accidents happen. When fireworks season begins, so does the need for fire damage restoration.

If a firework or fire damages a residence, the SERVPRO team offers comprehensive cleanup services to restore it to its original condition.

Keep Pets Safe

Many people love fireworks. However, pets aren’t thrilled by them. They fear loud noises and bright lights associated with fireworks. Some pets tremble and shake, have no bladder control, or run away during fireworks.

In addition to the anxiety fireworks cause pets, they’re also a fire hazard. Fireworks may land on a residence and cause damage, or a pet may run into fire hazards like matches and fireworks. So remember to exercise fire damage prevention for extra precaution, regardless of what can go wrong.

How to Protect Pets:

•       Ensure the pet has a microchip
•       Keep pets inside except for using the bathroom
•       Create a safe area
•       Use blinds and curtains to block out light
•       Use medication if prescribed by a veterinarian
•       Play music or the TV as a distraction
•       Don’t light fireworks with pets outside (they may try to eat firework remnants or catch fire if close)

Summer Restoration Services

Texas summers bring a variety of conditions that pose a threat to residences and commercial buildings. Keep reading for the three different services offered by SERVPRO.

Fire Damage Restoration

SERVPRO is top-rated among fire restoration companies that offer quick, reliable servicing. The restoration technicians ensure soot cleanup, damage assessment, immediate board-up or tarping  (if necessary), repair, and restoration in an efficient manner.

Water Damage Restoration

While fire damage restoration companies are essential, so are water restoration companies. For residents of Azle, TX, emergency water restoration is necessary when floods happen.

SERVPRO handles both residential and commercial water damage. Unfortunately, once water is in residence, mold can grow in as little as 48 hours and create even more significant issues this summer.

Mold Remediation

If water floods a residence, then the mold is likely there too. Mold remediation involves getting to the source of the mold and completing mold removal to bring the building’s mold levels back to normal. Removing 100% of mold is not possible, but by understanding the science of mold growth, SERVPRO stands out among mold remediation companies to keep homes clean and safe.

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth offers fire, water, and mold damage restoration. The team of professionals is here to complete any summer restoration project and has been providing local service since 1967.

The goal for SERVPRO is to make the cleanup process like the flooding never even happened. So whether it’s fire, mold, or water cleanup, this team ensures quality work.

Contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of West Fort Worth today at (817) 560-3086 for reliable and valuable fire damage prevention tips and services!

Grilling and Campfire Safety Tips

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: Grill fires are responsible for most outdoor fires resulting in millions of dollars in damage each year. These fires are highly preventable with proper planning and preparation.

Who doesn’t look forward to summer vacation, family road trips, and outdoor gatherings? These events usually involve fun-filled days in the sun and fresh food off the grill. Unfortunately, when grill operators fail to prepare, accidents happen, damaging property and injuring attendees.

Contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of West Fort Worth for information on fire damage prevention and restoration, residential water cleanup, or commercial water damage restoration.

Fire Facts from a Fire Damage Restoration Company

According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), more than 10,000 home and outdoor fires occur yearly. Those fires cause more than $14 million in damages requiring the need for professional fire restoration companies. Grilling-related fires account for more than 54% of those yearly fires.

Grilling fires commonly occur due to:

•       Improper cleaning of grilling equipment
•       Placing the grill too close to homes and structures
•       Failing to check for leaks or breaks in the fuel lines
•       Leaving the grill unattended

Of those grilling-related fires, unchecked, cracked, and broken gas lines are responsible for 10% of gas grill structural fires and 22% of outdoor gas grill fires.

Nearly 20,000 people seek treatment in emergency rooms each year for grill fire-related burn injuries. Almost 2,000 of those emergency room visits involved children under five.

Fire Damage Prevention Tips

Of all fires, grilling fires are one of the easiest to avoid with proper fire prevention steps. For a safe and enjoyable grilling experience, follow these simple tips:

•       Clean and inspect grills regularly for breaks, cracks, or leaks.
•       Only use the grill outside in a well-ventilated area, away from homes and structures.
•       Wear proper clothing.
•       Keep spray bottles and fire extinguishers close by in case of emergencies.
•       Keep children and pets three feet away from grills at all times. 
•       If using charcoal, keep charcoal fluid out of reach from children.
•       Minimize distractions, including drinking alcohol while grilling.
•       Do not leave the grill unattended.
•       Dispose off ashes in a metal container and allow ashes to cool for at least 48 hours before handling.

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth, TX is a family-owned and -operated damage restoration company serving residential and commercial properties in West Fort Worth and the surrounding areas. The company’s services include:

•       Fire damage restoration
•       Mold removal
•       Residential and commercial cleaning services
•       Storm cleanup and restoration
•       Water damage restoration

SERVPRO offers a free evaluation of your damages and is available 24 hours a day to handle emergency restoration needs, including emergency water restoration. The courteous and professional staff is certified and trained to manage all your restoration needs, regardless of size. The technicians use only the best equipment in the industry.

Many companies offer restoration services following a disaster or major storm. Don’t waste time filling your contact list with separate names of restoration companies, such as water restoration companies, mold remediation companies, and fire restoration companies. SERVPRO of West Fort Worth is your one-stop shop for all damage restoration issues.

Contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of West Fort Worth at (817) 560-3086 for quick and efficient fire damage restoration at affordable rates. Let the experienced team help you with fire damage prevention or restore your property to pre-damage conditions.

4 Top Reasons Why Urgent Smoke, Odor, and Soot Removal Is Essential After Fire Damage

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The professionals at SERVPRO of West Fort Worth, one of Texas’s leading fire and water restoration companies, discuss the dangers of not seeking smoke, odor, and soot removal immediately following fire damage.

The Importance of Smoke, Odor, and Soot Removal

Fires can be devastating to a property, even if damage from the flames does not seem severe. People often assume they will need emergency water restoration due to residential or commercial water damage from fire fighting efforts. While the service may be necessary, it isn’t enough. 

Fire damage produces smoke, odors, and soot. They can create long-lasting problems unless the property receives prompt treatment from reputable fire restoration companies that offer smoke, odor, and soot removal. Without professional mitigation efforts, particles from soot and smoke could settle inside the building and its contents and possibly make them unsalvageable.

4 Reasons to Seek Professional Smoke, Odor, and Soot Removal

1. Dangers of Soot and Smoke

After a fire, most properties sustain damage from smoke and flames. Smoke and soot carry micro debris like carcinogens through the air that could lead to serious health issues, including cancers. The particles settle into flooring, upholstery, clothing, and any other surface affected by smoke.

Soot may be visible on the floor, walls, or ceiling following a fire. While it may seem like an easy cleanup, professional smoke, odor, and soot removal is the only way to ensure the room is safe to inhabit. Fire restoration companies can restore some items with soot and smoke damage to a like-new condition. Without treatment, the harmful particles can lead to serious health risks.

2. Problems with Odors after Fire Damage

Smoke from residential and commercial fires carries a foul scent that can easily spread throughout a building. The unpleasant odor can make the home or business inhabitable and penetrates soft and hard surfaces, including wooden structures, spaces behind walls, and plumbing.

Do-it-yourself deodorization efforts are not effective against smoke odors. However, professional restoration companies have the equipment necessary to deep-clean the affected areas and deodorize the building.

3. Allergy Triggers

People with smoke sensitivities will have difficulty being inside a building after a fire that has not had smoke, odor, and soot removal. Smoke contains many allergens, including dust and airborne pollutants, that can trigger pre-existing health conditions or cause new ones.

Fire damage restoration companies can thoroughly cleanse the air inside a home or office to improve indoor air quality.

4. Lingering Traces of Soot and Odor

Sometimes, property owners may temporarily deodorize their homes or commercial buildings after a fire. However, it’s not uncommon for the smell to return. It is best to receive professional deodorization services to neutralize foul odors permanently with a professional-grade chemical fog.

Fire Damage Restoration from SERVPRO of West Fort Worth

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth has been helping residents throughout the area restore their homes and businesses since 1967. As one of the top fire restoration companies serving Benbrook, TX, the highly trained team provides 24/7 emergency smoke, odor, and soot removal services, mold removal, water cleanup, and water damage restoration.

This residential and commercial cleaning service has the skills, equipment, and certified personnel to handle any disaster. Contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of West Fort Worth at (817) 560-3086 to request service from one of the area’s best fire, water, and mold remediation companies.

Why Homeowners Should Hire Professionals for Fire and Water Damage Restoration

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO, one of West Fort Worth’s leading fire and water damage restoration companies, explains soot’s dangers and why homeowners need to dispose of it immediately after fire damage.

Why Soot Needs to Be Cleaned up Immediately after Fire Damage

Soot can be more harmful than home and business owners might think. The chemical compounds found in soot can affect people’s health and the environment. That’s why the water and fire damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of West Fort Worth put together a guide explaining soot’s dangers and how to dispose of it properly. 

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth is one of Azle, TX’s leading fire restoration companies. Its team can handle everything from emergency water damage restoration to mold removal and everything in between. Continue reading to learn more about soot and the possible hazards it brings.

What is Soot?

Soot consists of tiny carbon particles that form after fuels like wood or coal fail to combust fully. It contains numerous chemicals, acids, and metals that can cause health effects when inhaled. When a fire breaks out, soot spreads and attaches to various surfaces throughout the home, leaving behind unsightly blemishes while reducing the homeowner’s indoor air quality.

Candles, fireplaces, and even furnaces can also cause soot buildup over time. Excessive candle use and poorly ventilated fireplaces gradually release soot without the homeowner noticing, potentially causing health effects. Furnaces also contribute to soot contamination when an oil burner doesn’t ignite immediately, allowing fumes to build up and producing what is known as a puff back.

The Dangers of Soot

Soot doesn’t just enter the body through inhalation or ingestion. This harmful substance can also penetrate through the eyes and skin, and can cause various health effects.

Soot’s chemical compounds also take a toll on the environment. When fossil fuels burn, soot is discharged into the atmosphere, polluting the air, lakes, rivers, and more.

How to Clean Up Soot

If you find soot in your home or business after a fire, it’s best to contact a commercial cleaning service to handle the issue. Professional cleaning services use specialized equipment to eradicate soot safely and efficiently. They also know proficient techniques that quickly get rid of troublesome soot, ensuring the building's safety.

Many fire and water restoration companies also provide professional water cleanup services to deal with the effects of sprinklers and hoses used to put out a fire.

Contact SERVPRO of West Fort Worth for Professional Fire and Water Damage Restoration

For quality fire and water damage restoration in Fort Worth, TX, and the surrounding areas, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of West Fort Worth. SERVPRO’s team provides excellent commercial water damage services, soot removal, fire restoration, and more.

SERVPRO is also one of West Fort Worth’s most trusted mold remediation companies, qualified to handle all your mold removal needs.

Contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of West Fort Worth at 817-560-3086 and get reliable fire and water damage restoration services today!

The property damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of West Fort Worth reveal the secrets to winter home fire safety.

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of West Fort Worth is a leading provider of property damage restoration services throughout the US. They share four tips on safely winterizing and heating your home to avoid fire hazards that risk property damage and pose health risks to homeowners. These valuable tips include preventive maintenance, awareness of risk factors, safe use of heating technology, and signs that homeowners need professional repairs.

4 Fire Safety Tips for Homeowners this Winter Season

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth has been proudly providing fire damage restoration services, water damage restoration, emergency water restoration, and mold removal in the Fort Worth, TX, area since its founding in 1967. They offer top-tier residential and commercial cleaning services.

For more information about fire prevention, consult the Fort Worth Bureau of Fire Safety in addition to SERVPRO fire safety tips. 

1. Be Careful Using Space Heaters

Space heaters can cause fires if heating elements get too close to flammable material such as bedding, curtains, or waste paper. Homeowners who use space heaters should:

•     Keep an eye on them when they are in operation
•     Keep the area free from flammable materials
•     Avoid placing them on unstable or flammable surfaces
•     Unplug them when they are not in use

2. Have the Furnace or HVAC System Checked in the Fall

The furnace can become a fire hazard if vents or ductwork becomes clogged and fuel does not burn correctly in the combustion chamber. To ensure that the furnace is in good working order, homeowners should have a qualified HVAC or furnace repair technician inspect the furnace. 

3. Look for Signs of Faulty Wiring

During the winter holiday season, many people put up lights and other decorations that place demands on the electrical system. Families spend more time indoors and might use electrical equipment that has been in storage for the majority of the year.

Homeowners should inspect any electrical devices for signs of damage. Do not use power strips and extension cords to plug in too many electrical devices into one outlet at a time. If wires, devices, or outlets produce sparks, a burning smell, or a crackling noise, stop using them and consult an electrician.

4. Use Caution with Electric Blankets and Heating Pads

Heating pads and electric blankets can make winter more comfortable, but when they malfunction, they can pose a risk of fire. The SERVPRO of West Fort Worth experts recommend not falling asleep when using an electric blanket and do not allow flammable materials to touch the heating elements. Do not use old or damaged heating pads or electric blankets.

These tips will help make sure you never need SERVPRO’s fire damage restoration services.

Contact SERVPRO, one of the Leading Fire Restoration and Water Cleanup Companies

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth is one of the top fire restoration companies, mold remediation companies, and water restoration companies in the business. They provide mold removal and water removal along with water damage restoration. 

Homeowners and business owners don’t have to let stains, scorch marks, and odors hurt the resale value of their home and remind them of traumatic events. Repair residential and commercial water damage after a fire like nothing ever happened by calling Team Shaw of SERVPRO of West Fort Worth at (817) 560-3086 for professional fire damage restoration. 

5 Most Common Causes of Fire to Look Out For in a Commercial Property

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO advises Fort Worth residents on many of the most common causes of fire to look out for on commercial properties.

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth is a leading commercial damage restoration company serving businesses in Fort Worth, Pelican Bay, Benbrook, TX, and the surrounding areas with commercial cleaning services, mold removal, and restoration. As one of the top fire restoration companies in the area, the SERVPRO team commits to educating Texas business owners. SERVPRO provides information on the five most common causes of a fire to be aware of on commercial properties.

5 Most Common Causes of Fire to Look Out for in a Commercial Property

#1: Cooking Equipment

Whether a kitchen is in a restaurant or office, cooking equipment is the most common cause of a commercial fire. Commercial kitchens must have automatic fire extinguisher systems in place if a cooking equipment fire arises. OSHA suggests a Class K fire extinguisher for putting out grease fires. Commercial kitchens may also require water cleanup after a fire to remove water and prevent mold growth after sprinklers extinguish the flames.

#2: Electrical Wiring

Despite modern construction innovations, electrical wiring is the source of many commercial fires. When electrical components become faulty, serious fire hazards can occur. Whether wiring is old, there are loose connections, or lightning creates electrical issues, these situations can create significant fire damage.

Lighting equipment can pose just as much of a safety risk. Faulty lights can overheat and start a fire before you realize it.

#3: Heating Equipment

Commercial businesses invest in heating equipment to keep employees or customers comfortable. However, heating systems are among the top causes of commercial fires. The NFPA states that faulty heating equipment has contributed to 11% of commercial office fires within the past four years.

Regular inspections of heaters, boilers, and generators and prompt replacement of outdated equipment are two ways business owners can prevent fires.

#4: Smoking

While accidental fires caused by cigarettes aren’t the most common commercial fires, smoking materials can lead to significant fire damage. Nearly 10% of fires in offices are from smoking, while restaurants come in second for smoking at 7%.

Business owners should establish an area for employees to take smoke breaks away from open flames or fire hazards. They should also have a clear building evacuation plan in case of fire. SERVPRO’s fire restoration professionals can mitigate fire damage from smoking and implement better safety tools.

#5: Arson

Fires started intentionally require police officers to establish criminal intent in an arson case. 36% of fires in educational facilities happen intentionally, while that statistic jumps down to 10% for office buildings.

Commercial victims of arson can receive assistance whether they need water damage restoration or mold remediation. While some water damage restoration and mold remediation companies don’t have the means to support businesses, SERVPRO serves both residential and commercial clients for all restoration needs.

About the Company

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth, TX, differs from typical water restoration companies. The licensed team understands business owners’ needs when fires occur. Whether you need commercial water damage repairs or emergency water restoration, SERVPRO’s professionals are ready to serve.

Don’t let a fire potential reduce your chances of getting commercial damage restoration in Fort Worth, TX. Stay safe and point your fire safety efforts at the most common causes. Schedule an appointment ahead of time or contact SERVPRO for commercial damage restoration services by calling (817) 560-3086.

Create a Foolproof Home Fire Evacuation Plan With These Handy Tips From a Leading Fire Damage Restoration Service

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary:  Does everyone know what to do in the event of a fire at home or work? The fire damage restoration specialists at SERVPRO of West Fort Worth share tips for creating an effective fire evacuation plan that can keep everyone safe.

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth has dealt with all kinds of disasters, but fire damage restoration services continue to be in high demand for this area of Fort Worth, TX. The team restores West Fort Worth’s homes and businesses to a pre-disaster state and offers a 24-hour emergency response to make it look "Like it never even happened."

Essential Tips From A Professional Fire Damage Restoration Company

Fort Worth has a great climate, but this dry and windy area of Texas is also a perfect conduit for fires. Professionals like SERVPRO of West Fort Worth see disasters happen daily, and a fire evacuation plan could make a world of difference.

#1 Prepare The Escape Routes

Fire evacuation preparation needs to ensure that a building has two or more exit options, known as paths of egress. These paths should be easy to find and well-equipped. For example, an escape from a fire often presents with poor visibility through smoke or power outages, so it is important to store egress assistance tools close to the pathway. 

Multi-floor buildings should include well-maintained ladders and ropes in the egress tool kit.

#2 Set a Meeting Point

As one of the leading fire and water damage restoration services in the area, SERVPRO of West Fort Worth also recommends two meetup locations:

• a close primary meeting point,
• a second location further away in case the first is inaccessible or dangerous.

Emergency services can then account for all residents or employees in a matter of minutes while the soot and water cleanup begins.

#3 Take Advantage of Technical Warning Systems

Fire damage restoration teams see many disasters emerging in homes and businesses that fail to maintain fire detectors, fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems. It is essential to maintain these systems and keep everyone on the property safe.

#4 Prepare a Disaster Kit

Fires sever communication channels and cause injuries. Plan for these contingencies with a kit that includes:

• Spare cellphones
• Mobile chargers
• Flashlights
• First aid materials
• Canned food

#5 Take Drills Seriously

Residents and employees should be fully aware of the evacuation plan. Perform evacuation drills regularly, including training pets to follow exit commands and ensuring children know how to evacuate without adult assistance.

#6 Plan for Disaster Recovery

After an evacuation, fire damage restoration returns the building to its previous state. Texas locals often express surprise around the heat and smoke damage after a fire. There is also extensive water damage from the sprinklers and fire hoses.

A thorough cleanup is essential to a successful fire damage restoration project, and fire restoration companies like SERVPRO of West Fort Worth work as quickly as possible. Residential and commercial cleaning service callouts need urgent attention—even a few hours of standing water can require costly mold removal services later.

#7 Connect with Fire and Water Restoration Companies Immediately

The final tip is to act quickly; call a fire damage restoration service for assistance immediately after a disaster. The simplest route is to find a multi-service restoration team like SERVPRO of West Fort Worth. Waiting complicates the recovery, including having to summon mold remediation companies a few weeks after the fire.

SERVPRO has operated as a disaster restoration service since 1967, and the Fort Worth team specializes in:

• fire restoration
• emergency water restoration
• mold removal and remediation
• residential and commercial water damage restoration

Contact SERVPRO of West Fort Worth at 817-560-3086 today or visit the experienced fire damage restoration team at 8088 Camp Bowie W Blvd STE #106, Fort Worth, Texas, 76116.

Factors That Determine the Fire Damage Restoration Process and Timeline

9/23/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The experts at SERVPRO of West Fort Worth go over some factors that affect the fire damage restoration process and how long it will take to reconstruct a fire-damaged property.

While it’s understandable to want to return to the property and begin rebuilding as soon as possible after a house fire, how long rebuilding a fire-damaged property takes depends on factors such as the severity of fire damage and the size of the building.

The experts at SERVPRO of West Fort Worth, a leading fire damage restoration company, have some guidance for homeowners wondering how long the property reconstruction process takes.

Factors That Determine How Long It Takes to Restore Property After a Fire

#1: The severity of the fire damage

The extent of damage is a primary factor in how long it takes to rebuild a home after a fire. For example, if a small fire breaks out in one room, and the damage is contained there, repairs can be done in one or two days. With a much larger fire that affects the entire structure, on the other hand, rebuilding can take several weeks or even months.

During a house fire, flames, smoke, soot, and even the water used to extinguish the fire all create different types of damage to a variety of surfaces.

As a result, fire restoration companies have to employ a multi-faceted approach, ranging from damage clean-up to soot removal and water clean-up. That may require services from contractors, engineers, and even mold removal or mold remediation experts in addition to fire and smoke removal experts. Some restoration companies, such as SERVPRO, offer all of the above services. Working with a single contractor typically speeds up the process.

#2: The size and type of structure

Similar to the extent of damage, the size of the building that needs to be restored and its layout may affect the restoration timeline. Naturally, a small single-story home can be restored faster than a massive multi-floor office building. The number of floors involved and where the fire was might be relevant even if the fire is small, as moving equipment across floors can present its own challenges.

#3: The fire damage restoration company hired

Restoring fire-damaged properties requires special skills, training, and tools, and no two companies are equal in this respect. An established company with a well-trained crew and all the resources they need on hand will be able to complete the restoration process faster than a new company with an inexperienced team. It pays to be picky when looking into fire damage restoration professionals, water restoration companies, architects, contractors, and other professionals to work on a fire-damaged property.

About SERVPRO of West Fort Worth

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth is a property damage restoration company serving residential and commercial clients in Fort Worth, TX, and the surrounding communities. Founded in 1967, the company is part of a national network of over 1,700 franchises strategically located throughout the country.

Their staff is highly trained in water damage restoration, fire and smoke damage restoration, mold removal, biohazard clean-up, and more. They also offer residential and commercial cleaning services.

Contact SERVPRO of West Fort Worth at (817) 560-3086 or follow them on Twitter to learn more about the fire damage restoration process in Benbrook, TX, and surrounding areas.

Contact Information:

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth

8008 Camp Bowie W Blvd Ste #106
Fort Worth, TX 76116

office@SERVPROheb.com

SERVPRO: Fire Safety Tips for Educational Institutes

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: This SERVPRO article lists the usual causes of fires at educational institutes and how the management can take certain measures to protect staff and students from fires.

Why fires occur at educational institutes and how to prevent them

Fires at educational institutes can be catastrophic. To protect young lives and the staff, the institute management must follow several measures to prevent these incidents. SERVPRO shares the usual causes of fires at schools and some tips to protect the school and its people from fire damage.

The usual suspects, statistically

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), structure fires in schools in 2013-2017 caused $42 million in direct property damage.

• 37% were started intentionally
• 24% were due to playing with a heat source
• 20% began in a kitchen or cooking area
• 12% were due to heating equipment

NFPA also stated that structure fires in dormitories, fraternities, sororities, and barracks. cost $14 million in direct property damage in the same time period.

• 87% began in a kitchen or cooking area
• 5% were started intentionally
• 3% were due to smoking
• 2% were due to heating equipment
• 2% were due to electrical faults

Fire safety tips for schools

1. Preventive measures

Establishing school, daycare, or church school safety procedures is vital to keeping a school safe from fires. 

• Fire-resistant landscaping: Planting shrubs and water-resistant trees can help prevent fires from spreading. Fire-resistant trees can be planted at least 30 feet away from the school and at least 10 feet apart from one another. Additionally, keep the shrubbery and trees trimmed for unobstructed movement.
• Gadgets: Installing motion sensor exterior lighting or lighting on timers as well as alarms on doors, windows, roof hatches, and ventilator openings is very helpful.
• Fire-proof the trash: Place trash bins far away from the building and install metal lids that can be locked to prevent intruders.

1. Educate about fire safety 

Educating the staff and students about fire safety is the first step towards prevention. 

• Fire drills: Conduct expected and unexpected monthly school fire drills in which everyone participates.
• Handy maps: Give an emergency exit map to each classroom and label all of the exits and paths to safety.
• Response training: Train students on how to respond to a fire alarm during a school fire drill.
• Accessible fire safety equipment: Know the locations of the fire protection system, fire alarm pull stations, and sprinklers.
• Buddy system: Creating a buddy system, especially for students with specific needs, is a way to ensure that every child is taken care of. 
• Safe zone: Create a safe zone that students identify and can meet once they exit the building. This safe zone can be reiterated during fire drills.
• Right count: Have a roster at hand to ensure every student is accounted for.

1. Regular fire safety inspections

Just establishing a curriculum for fire safety education isn’t enough. The management must invest in constant review of the school, daycare, or church facilities to ensure there are no unpleasant surprises when there is actually a fire event. 

As a part of the routine, authorities can include the following:

• Audit the facility: Conducting a facility audit, especially for older buildings, is crucial to ensure all equipment and structure are well-maintained and do not pose a fire threat.
• Unblock: Ensure all doorways, stairways, windows, and emergency exits remain unblocked at all times.
• Maintenance: Inspect kitchen equipment and appliances to make sure they’re up to date and functioning properly.
• Check the fire prevention gadgets: Inspect the sprinkler system across the facility to ensure it is functioning properly. Special sprinkler systems and decontamination showers in all science labs are a wise investment. Maintain the fire extinguishers and/or hoses. Ensure that there are enough pieces of extinguishers across the facility.

1. Change the routine, find the flaws

Holding unscheduled fire drills, at different times of day and under different conditions, bring forth any problems with the fire safety plan. When staff and students undergo fire safety drills at unusual and unexpected times, hidden problems may surface. This allows timely redressal and avoids any unexpected protocol failure in real-time. 

Why SERVPRO?

# SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of West Fort Worth is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in West Fort Worth, Benbrook, Azle, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

# With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

# The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For fire damage restoration services, call SERVPRO of West Fort Worth today at (817) 560-3086 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com

SERVPRO Busts the Myths around Fire Damage and Restoration

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO article busts 6 myths about fire damage and the restoration process.

Fire damage myths debunked

Often, people believe that fire damage restoration is too expensive and unnecessary, or they are just unsure about what the process entails. Many myths surrounding this topic must be debunked. In this blog post, SERVPRO of West Fort Worth discusses all the myths about fire damage and restoration so property owners can make an informed decision when faced with these damages.

# Myth 1: Smoke detectors are enough 

Truth: Smoke detectors are effective warning systems in case of fires, enabling a timely exit from the premises and protecting the occupants from potential danger. However, they cannot contain a fire.

Property owners must ensure:

1. Smoke detectors are installed properly and have well-charged batteries.
2. There is an evacuation plan in place for fire damage emergencies. The occupants of a property must be aware of the emergency preparedness plan.
3. Invest in appropriate fire extinguishers or sprinkler systems.

# Myth 2: Sprinklers cause much more damage

Truth: A sprinkler system quickly eliminates the heat and controls the smoke from the fire, limiting the fire damage. 

Facts about the sprinkler system:

1. Sprinkler heads are individually activated by fire temperatures above 155°. The other sprinklers remain dormant unless the fire spreads. 
2. A typical sprinkler discharges 55 liters per minute. A firefighting hose expends up to 750 liters per minute. Any water damage caused by sprinklers is nothing compared to the water damage caused by firefighting hose lines.
3. Property losses are 85% less in residences with fire sprinklers compared to those without sprinklers. 
4. The combination of automatic sprinklers and early warning systems in all buildings can reduce overall injuries, loss of life, and property damage by approximately 50%.
5. Sprinklers wash the larger particles out of smoke - the biggest cause of fire-related deaths - reducing its density and toxicity. 
6. Fire sprinkler systems are eligible for insurance rate savings and may increase the property value.

# Myth 3: Most fires are caused by electrical malfunctions 

Truth: According to FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, electrical malfunctions are neither the leading nor the second largest cause of fire damage. 

Statistically, here are the figures:

1. Cooking equipment is responsible for nearly half of all house fires in the United States. 
2. Heating follows as a far second, causing over 12% of the house fires in the US. 
3. Electrical house fires make up only 6% of the house fires in the US.

# Myth 4: Flames are the biggest threat

Truth: Flames can create havoc, but smoke inhalation is responsible for maximum fire-related deaths. 

Smoke facts:

1. Smoke is composed of toxic chemicals and is easily inhaled, leading to unconsciousness and then death. 
2. Smoke can incapacitate and overpower swiftly, disabling occupants to make it to an otherwise accessible exit. 
3. The synthetic materials in homes are dangerous and produce especially dangerous substances. 
4. 50–80% of fire deaths are the result of smoke inhalation injuries, including burns to the respiratory system.

Myth #5: The odor of smoke never leaves a fire-damaged property

Truth: The key to eliminating the smoke smell is prompt cleaning that prevents permanent damage from seeping into the home. The extent and intensity of smoke are decided by the following factors:

1. Strength of the fire – Larger fires produce more smoke, so the resulting smoke smell will be more pervasive and more intense;
2. Exposure length – The longer the exposure to smoke, the more the smoke odor will have permeate into the household materials;
3. Burned materials – When burned, different materials produce different odors. Some smells such as those from burning synthetic or plastic materials are much harder to remove.

An experienced fire restoration team such as SERVPRO would have the advanced equipment such as nano filters and ozone generators and the expertise to eliminate smoke odor after a fire. With safe and efficient odor removal techniques and cleaning products, the SERVPRO team can bring a property back to its original glory. 

Myth #6: DIY restoration is enough

Truth: For minor and very controlled fires, DIY restoration can suffice. But here are reasons why some things are best left to the professionals:

1. Hidden health hazards: A walk through a fire-damaged property can allow chemically laden soot to get into the eyes and penetrate the skin. Inhalation may lead to health effects in the short term.
2. Special equipment: Soot cannot just be wiped away. Special equipment and methods may be needed to adequately clean up smoke and fire damage. 
3. Loss of contents: There may be salvageable contents that a DIY restorer may throw away mistakenly. Only a professional eye can distinguish between what’s ruined beyond repair and what can be rescued.
4. Time-consuming: Restoring a property to its pre-fire condition is a complicated and tedious task. The entire process involves salvaging belongings, cleaning up, repairing the home structure, and most importantly insurance claims to minimize the financial impact. 

The sooner a professional team begins the restoration process, the sooner life, and the property can get back to normal. Contact SERVPRO of West Fort Worth for all fire damage restoration services.

Why SERVPRO?

# SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of West Fort Worth is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Fort Worth, Benbrook, Azle, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

# With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

# The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire regular IICRC-industry certification.

For fire damage restoration services, call SERVPRO of West Fort Worth today at (817) 560-3086 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com

What Owners Need to Know About Fire Damage Restoration and Cleanup

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The team at SERVPRO discusses the importance of fire damage restoration for disaster recovery services in Fort Worth, TX. Experts like SERVPRO will have homes and businesses looking like new after a professional restoration service, no matter the fire or water damage issues that arise.

The CDC reports many dangers after emergencies and flood cleanup, fire, and water restoration companies like SERVPRO are essential to a quick recovery. Following the correct procedure after a fire safeguards the building’s occupants and its structural integrity. It also ensures a better chance that the insurance company will pay for restoration or rebuilding costs. 

Five Do’s and Don’ts of Fire Damage Restoration and Cleanup

The SERVPRO team has helped thousands of Fort Worth residents handle disaster and water cleanup operations with quick, effective results. Here are a few words of advice from their building restoration service experts:

#1 DO Take Time Off

Fire recovery is fraught with emotion, and even watching a stress-free commercial cleaning service restore the area can feel overwhelming at times. Many people bottle these feelings, but it is important to take time away from work and daily routines. Until things get back to normal, the aim is to provide calm and professional support and recovery service.

Experienced companies like SERVPRO understand how traumatic a disaster can be to a family or business owner. They reassure clients with top-notch services and a smooth approach to every detail of the operation. If that means conducting an air duct cleaning service or mold remediation at a time that’s most convenient, that is what they do. 

#2 DON’T Be Impatient

Fire and the resulting commercial water damage affect every aspect of the premises, and even the most reliable fire restoration companies can’t fix everything in one day. It helps to have highly-trained restoration specialists, but all fire damage restoration services take some time to address the details. In many cases, fire damage restoration includes extensive work, like water removal, messy water damage, and tedious mold removal. 

These processes take time, but neglecting them is not an option. A poor job in any of these areas will only lead to increased costs in the future. SERVPRO’s fire damage restoration service will assist homeowners every step of the way, and there won’t be a single spot missed in the process.

#3 DO Call The Insurance Company

The sooner the insurance company knows about the fire, the better. In many instances, the insurance company will refer residents to SERVPRO in Fort Worth, Texas. Their services prevent further damage and start the restoration process sooner.

Ask the insurance company:

• The timetable for addressing water damage
• How to secure the property
• How to file a claim
• Whether they will work with SERVPRO as a reliable fire damage restoration company

#4 DON’T Enter the House Without Permission

Fires leave plenty of toxic chemicals behind, and even a small fire can generate enough carbon monoxide to kill a person. Soot is a secondary issue, causing respiratory distress and blockages around the premises. Homeowners and commercial property owners should not enter the premises or try to retrieve any items without a professional disaster recovery technician on-site.

Fires also result in structural damage, which makes the property unsafe to occupy and unstable to visit or clean. Stay away from the area until the supporting fire restoration companies like SERVPRO indicate that it is safe to be there. 

#5 DO Work with the Experts

A fire damage restoration service makes handling the aftermath of a fire far easier. Every SERVPRO team member understands the anxiety that business and homeowners face and will work to alleviate it. They also work closely with insurance companies to keeping the property owner calm and informed. 

SERVPRO offers decades of experience navigating stressful, messy events with top-quality residential and commercial water damage and fire damage restoration in Benbrook and surrounding areas. Find out more about the SERVPRO fire damage restoration service on Instagram, or call (817) 560 3086, night or day. Alternatively, visit their offices in Fort Worth, TX, 76116.

How to Help Your Business Bounce Back After Fire Damage Restoration

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO offers four helpful, step-by-step ways for businesses to bounce back after being affected by fire damage.

How to Help Your Business Bounce Back After Fire Damage Restoration

Fire is a tragedy for any business, but there are proven steps that can be taken to ensure a smooth recovery process and proper fire damage restoration.

#1: Contact the Insurance Company ASAP

When fire damage affects a business, the first thing that needs to be done is contacting the insurance company. Filing claims and assessing damage can be a lengthy process, so it is best to get started as soon as possible. This will help avoid delays, meet deadlines, and schedule a prompt appointment with an insurance adjuster.

Furthermore, it is important to make sure that a copy of the insurance policy is available. Familiarize yourself with the details and inclusions of the policy as you move forward through the claims process.

#2: Gather All Necessary Documentation

According to the Insurance Information Institute, businesses in the US suffered over 4.3 billion dollars in property losses from fire damage in 2019 alone. Therefore, documenting the damage to the property is extremely important. Doing so will give the business its best chance at recovering any significant property loss.

Use multiple methods to document the damage, including photos, videos, and detailed written descriptions. Proper documentation will offer the best chance of recuperating the losses.

In addition to recording damage, here are a few other documents that should be gathered:

• Copy of the fire report
• Receipts documenting the fire damage restoration costs
• Inventory lists to ensure no damage or losses get overlooked

#3: Salvage and Remove Undamaged Property

Once all the damaged items are documented, it is important to remove or secure items remaining inside the building to avoid any further damage. 

Electronics, equipment, and other expensive items are particularly susceptible to further loss. The business and property are often exposed after fire damage, which could allow thieves to steal anything valuable left behind.

Furthermore, it’s likely that the business will have been affected by the soot, debris, and smoke left in the fire’s wake. This can lead to unexpected damage to the property long after the fire has gone out. Therefore, it’s important to remove any important items that can be damaged by these factors as soon as possible.

#4: Begin Fire Damage Restoration and Repair

The final step is restoring the business to its original condition. Choose a fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of West Fort Worth who can repair the damage quickly and help restore the property from start to finish.

Here is what to expect during the fire damage restoration process:

• Step 1: Speak with the local repair and restoration contractor. Contact SERVPRO of West Fort Worth.
• Step 2: Bring in restoration professionals for inspection and damage assessment.
• Step 3: These experts will secure the property from further damage, which may include boarding up windows and tarping damaged roofs.
• Step 4: Immediate water cleanup will remove any water left behind from extinguishing the fire. 
• Step 5: The restoration team will remove soot and smoke from all surfaces, including walls and ceilings.
• Step 6: The property will be cleaned and sanitized. Also, harmful odors will be neutralized and removed.
• Step 7: Bring the business back to its pre-fire condition and reopen as quickly as possible. This process can include painting, reflooring, and other repairs.

Why SERVPRO?

Call for 24-hour service at (817) 560-3086.

How Can I Get My Texas Home Cleaned Up After a Fire

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Team Can Arrive Quickly to Your Texas Residences for Cleaning and Restoration Following a Fire

Cleaning up after a fire loss incident in Texas is one of the considerable challenges to making these disasters “Like it never even happened.” Without adequate and thorough cleaning and restoration practices implemented at the right times, surfaces and contents could suffer irreparable damages. Discarding materials and reinstalling them can be an unnecessary cost when our SERVPRO professionals can get to work quickly on the recovery steps required.

Effective cleaning and restoration after fire damage to North Texas homes begin with a fast and confident response. Because our technicians stay prepared to answer the call 24/7, we can often reach damaged addresses while there is still time and opportunity to protect many of the surfaces and exposed contents. Entrusting your home to responding technicians can often make the return to preloss condition more efficient and cost-effective.

What is Debris Removal?

Among the first steps in cleaning and restoring your fire-damaged home is debris removal. This process is one of the emergency services that our professionals offer and can help our technicians to gain control of an increasingly difficult situation. Shoveling out piles of ash and charred remnants of materials can help in many ways. Some advantages of beginning debris removal or muck-out for your home include:
    •    Reduces the concentration of soot
    •    Makes odors less intense
    •    Allows our professionals to inspect the property better

Is Soot Dangerous to Be Around?

Soot can be one of the most challenging obstacles for responding technicians, as this residue can react differently with each of the materials that it becomes exposed to after a fire. Also, the presence of soot can present health concerns for those in direct contact, which requires our professionals always to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment. From Tyvek suits to gloves and respirators, we can protect our cleaning team and eliminate cross-contamination with other areas of your house. The primary concerns about soot include:

    •    Acidic Nature – Because soot has an acidic base to its composition, its presence in a layer resting on organic surfaces can have a destructive effect. When residue goes prolonged periods without getting removed, it can mar or stain surfaces underneath it.
    •    Microscopic Particles – the size of soot particles is also an alarming concern because these microscopic particulates can get easily inhaled and travel deep into the lungs.
    •    High Concentrations – Circulating soot in the environment can present hazards like unclean breathing air and more substantial concentrations of soot residues on exposed surfaces.

How Can Residues Like Soot Get Cleaned?

Removing soot and smoke residues from the house requires several approaches and potent cleaning products. The best approach and technique to remove soot damage in the house gets determined often during the initial assessment and evaluation of the property following a fire loss. Our project manager can walk through the damaged building to begin cataloging loss and noting wherever soot removal techniques are necessary. These might include:

    •    Chemical Solvents – Emulsification can be an excellent method for removing oily soils from surfaces, and many of our chemical solvents can also have a positive effect on present soot damage. Pretesting is a way to determine what potent products are the best choice for the affected material.
    •    Soda/Media Blasting – Using a high-pressure output, soda, and media blasting equipment can help to restore the surface of a damaged structural element by eliminating soot without destroying the construction material beneath it.
    •    Controlled Demolition – There are some situations where material removal might be the only suitable solution. If soot has stained or marred a surface or item, our in-house contractors can remove only the damaged portions to make build back and reconstruction as efficient as possible.

What If Contents in My House Get Soot-Damaged?

Your belongings are just as susceptible and sensitive to soot exposure and damage as the construction materials used in your home. While you might not have the time to relocate everything of value or significance, our SERVPRO professionals can work on content management beginning as soon as we arrive. From on-site cleaning and relocation efforts to more intricate cleaning practices that can happen in our nearby facility and warehouse, we can improve the look and feel of damaged items efficiently.

Fires can be highly destructive to your home, especially surfaces battling the presence of soot and other residues. Addressing these concerns can involve multiple strategies, including surface cleaning, media blasting, and controlled demolition. No matter what your home needs, you can count on our SERVPRO of West Fort Worth team to help by calling (817) 560-3086.

Fire Fighters Have Put Out the Flames on My Property. What Do I Do About the Fire Damage?

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Talk to SERVPRO Experts in Texas to Help You Perform Fire Damage Restoration on Your Property.

Fire is a terrifying disaster that property owners can experience. Even after putting out the flames, the smoke residues may continue to destroy the valuable items and building materials in your Texas property. Fortunately, when you contact SERVPRO technicians within 48 hours, we can inspect your property and restore it to its former glory.

What are some of the dangers of fire damage?

If you delay fire damage restoration in your Texas property, secondary damage may begin to occur. Smoke residues, soot, and the water used to fight the flames can significantly ruin your home. Water can cause your wooden floor to bend and warp. It may also weaken structures such as support beams and lead to mold growth. 

The structures become vulnerable and can collapse since they cannot hold the weight. This can lead to severe injuries to the property’s residents.

How do you determine the severity of the damage?

Our team of restorers has certifications from the IICRC, Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification to conduct fire damage restoration. We use cutting-edge techniques and advanced equipment and tools that effectively handle fire loss incidents of any magnitude. To determine the intensity of fire damage in your property, we: 

Inspect the property for smoke and soot damage

Use a dry-cleaning sponge to locate the affected areas.

Use wood crème paste to test wood furniture with a heavy concentration of soot.

Inspect the HVAC unit and ducts for odors, damage, and contamination. 

Once SERVPRO technicians get to your property, we begin mitigating the fire damage immediately to prevent substantial repair costs. Our restorers can remove valuable items from the affected area to access every corner of your property. We can keep you informed during every step of the mitigation and restoration process. 

How do you clean the affected property?

Cleaning the affected area helps in removing odors. Our highly trained technicians can use various techniques and cleaning agents depending on the surface. We can use a liquid crème cleaner such as stain scrub, a mild abrasive product to clean surfaces made of stainless steel like kitchen appliances. 

After the cleaning process is complete, the charcoal-like odor may persist. We can use several air scrubbers to remove the odors depending on the size of the affected area. The units pass the contaminated air through filters, which remove 99.99 percent of particles. The machines release clean air into the property. 

After a fire loss, contact SERVPRO of West Fort Worth at (817) 560-3086 immediately to mitigate the fire damage. We can quickly restore your property to its pre-damaged state. "Like it never even happened." 

What to Expect During a Fire Damage Restoration Process

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: Dealing with a fire is an overwhelming experience, and much of the stress occurs after the flames are out. A fire damage restoration service can restore your residential or commercial property once the fire is over, which SERVPRO of West Fort Worth, TX, explains in detail below.

What to Expect During a Fire Damage Restoration Process

A fire in your home or business can lead to extreme loss, resulting in expensive repairs and replacements. Fire damage restoration is a process that occurs after firefighters extinguish the flames to ensure that the residence or business returns to its pre-fire state. 

If you are experiencing this issue for the first time, you want to know how the process works. To provide a better understanding of what to expect during this time, the experts at SERVPRO of West Fort Worth explain a typical restoration procedure.

Confirmation That Property Is Stable

Before any remediation professional enters a dwelling after a fire, they must confirm that the building is structurally sound enough to enter by checking for exterior compromising damages like foundation cracks.

Damage Assessment

Once inside the building, the restoration team will inspect the damage and determine its extent. These experts will check the ceiling, the floor, and everything in between. Fire damage restoration professionals understand what to look for to ensure a complete assessment.

Water removal

Firefighters often use excessive amounts of water to put out a blaze, which usually leads to water damage and flooding. The fire damage restoration technicians will use commercial blowers and dehumidifiers to get rid of the remaining moisture. For baseboards, flooring, padding, and insulation that are unsalvageable, the team will safely dispose of them.

Water removal and complete drying of all surfaces are necessary to prevent high levels of mold growth, which may require the assistance of mold remediation companies for inspection and removal. 

Remove Soot, Clean, and Sanitize

One of the most dangerous aspects of dealing with the aftermath of a fire is the soot. Smoke damage can spread throughout the entire building, even in areas that didn’t have flames. Fire restoration companies use specialized equipment to remove traces of smoke and soot safely from the premises. They may also offer an air duct cleaning service to ensure that residents breathe fresh air.

Once soot and water cleanup is complete, the restoration team will clean all salvable flooring and upholstery to remove smells. They will also use special equipment like foggers and air scrubbers to disinfect and sanitize all remaining surfaces that contain fire, smoke, and water damage. 

Make Repairs and Renovations

As the final step in the fire damage restoration process, the team will carefully repair damaged ceilings, walls, and flooring. They may apply a sealant to mask the charred odor on unfinished wood surfaces, but they can fully repair finished wood by stripping, sanding, and refinishing the surface. 

The team will reconstruct the room to its pre-fire condition by shampooing or installing carpets, installing new drywall, and washing fabrics. This step in the process is an excellent time to seek renovation services, which a fire damage restoration company may offer.  They can make the room look like new, even if it means you have to replace furniture and personal belongings that have too much damage.

Why SERVPRO

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth, Texas, is one of the top fire restoration companies in the area. They offer a residential and commercial cleaning service, including flood cleanup, soot and odor control, sanitation, mold removal, and a building restoration service to repair flooring, walls, furniture, and personal belongings. 

To learn more about their fire damage restoration service, call (817) 560-3086 or follow them on Facebook for their latest news.

Contact Information:

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth

P: (817) 560-3086

8008 Camp Bowie W Blvd

Ste #106

Fort Worth, TX 76116

Inspecting Your Home for Damages After a Fire

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to loss incidents, fire in your Texas home can prove challenging to overcome. Even without crippling structural damage, the effects of a recent fire can often be too far-reaching for the average homeowner to face independently. Conventional cleaning efforts and general deodorization, for example, pale in comparison to the effectiveness of professional restoration services.

Reacting to the fire damage in your Texas home can seem impossible. Once the extinguishment completes, you'll get your first look at the fire damage effects and what you have to overcome to get your house back to the way it was. Fortunately, this is not a battle that you have to fight on your own. Our trained SERVPRO Team can handle fire damage restoration. From soot cleanup to deodorization, we can get your house to the original condition effectively.

Our estimator and project manager work to identify the full scope of the damage from when we arrive at your home. We survey every area, whether directly connected to the fire in your home or not. Our thorough inspection ensures that the damages get cataloged and that our professionals have the right equipment and strategies to contend with what they face.

The insurance company that covers your home will receive the assessment of your damages. Most claims won't get pushed through without a detailed itinerary of the work that needs doing, a general estimated cost for materials and labor to restore the home.

Whether the damage in your home was widespread or not, this process remains the same. Our professionals take great care in assessing the scope of the damage that your home faces in the restoration process. You can trust our SERVPRO of West Fort Worth restoration specialists to work quickly to bring your home back to how it should be. Call at (817) 560-3086.

5 Space Heater Safety Tips

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

As the temperatures drop lower and cold weather rolls in to stay for awhile, you’re probably breaking out the space heaters to warm up your home or business. While space heaters provide wonderful warmth during the colder months, they also can be safety hazards if they aren’t properly set up and monitored to ensure they don’t pose any risks to you or your home. A space heater fire is never on anyone’s agenda, so we recommend following these 5 space heater safety tips to avoid any unwanted fires from occurring:

1. Carefully place your space heater at least 3 feet away from flammable objects. If any objects come in contact with the space heater’s electric heating face or a hot surface, it poses a serious fire risk. As a general rule, never sit or drape anything over your space heater, don’t set it near rugs, furniture, bedding, clothing, window treatments, or other flammable materials. Also, make sure that it’s sitting on a level surface so that it doesn’t accidentally fall or tip over. 
2. Don’t use extension cords. Plug your space heater directly into an outlet. There’s a much higher chance of your space heater overheating or otherwise malfunctioning if it’s plugged into an extension cord or an outlet strip. Minimize these dangers by plugging your space heater directly into an outlet that has the power capacity necessary to fire it up and keep it running.
3. Unplug it when you’re not using it. This should go for almost all appliances, but it’s especially relevant for your space heater. When you’re not using your space heater, you should first turn it off and then you should unplug it. Having a space heater running while you don’t want it to be running poses a fire hazard as well as a waste of energy. 
4. Clean, inspect, and maintain your space heater. On a regular basis, you should clean your space heater and wipe it down to avoid dispersing dust and other allergens throughout your house. You should also carefully monitor your space heater to ensure that it’s working as it’s supposed to and nothing wonky is happening. If anything seems out of order, turn it off and unplug it right away until a professional can inspect it and you can safely run it again. Alternatively, you can just dispose of it and purchase a new space heater.
5. Don’t run your space heater in the bathroom or a basement. Space heaters should never be run in places that are humid or wet because space heaters are not meant to be wet. Don’t handle your space heater if your hands are wet or you just got out of the shower. The electricity from the space heater could run through the water and shock you. This is dangerous and should be avoided at all costs.

While we love our space heaters as much as the rest of you, it’s important to run them safely when you have them operating. SERVPRO of West Fort Worth is here to help you with any fire damage, water damage, storm damage, or mold that comes your way this fall and winter season, and we’re available 24/7 at (817) 560-3086. Give us a call today to discuss how we can help you fix any damage to your home or business. 

Office Fire Safety Precautions to Observe

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

In the event that a fire ever occurs in your office, it’s important to have a few fire safety precautions in place to keep your employees and commercial building prepared for dealing with one. While having a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors goes without saying, do your employees know what to do if the alarm sounds or they have to use the extinguisher?

Here are a few fire safety precautions that you should ensure are in place:

• Make sure your employees know how to use a fire extinguisher. Every 6 months or so, hold a training session where your employees learn how to use a fire extinguisher if they don’t already know how to use one. Something as simple as this could be the difference between an accidental office fire from a microwave or a lighter being extinguished or burning up everything in sight. Here’s a great article on how to use a fire extinguisher.

• Regularly change your smoke detectors’ batteries and ensure one is installed in every room. As a general rule of thumb, test your smoke detectors once a month and replace their batteries twice a year. By ensuring that your smoke detectors do their job and have the battery juice to sound, you can prevent office fires whenever smoke occurs first.

• Share your office’s evacuation plan. Depending on the size of your office, you need to have one or multiple evacuation plans to adhere to the building’s fire code. Make sure to take into account any legal requirements for fire evacuation plans before you post them around the building and share them. 

• Do a few fire drills. Sharing your office’s evacuation plan isn’t enough. Hold a couple fire drills and run your employees through the proper evacuation routes so they know where to go if the building catches on fire. Rehearsing an evacuation plan makes it that much easier to take action in the event that a fire actually occurs.

With all of these fire safety precautions in place, we hope that you’ll never have to manage the aftermath of an office fire. However, If you ever end up dealing with fire damage, water damage, mold, or other natural disaster damage, give SERVPRO of West Fort Worth a call at (817) 560-3086. Our team of professionals are trained and equipped to help you manage restoration and cleaning.

Safety Tips For Using A Fire Extinguisher

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

OSHA states that fire is the most common emergency occurrence owners of homes and small businesses should plan for. One of the best ways to be prepared is by having a fire extinguisher readily available, making sure it’s properly maintained and audited, and by being educated on its proper use. This will already be a fire safety requirement for any business, and it’s a good idea for the homeowner, as well. 

OSHA requires employers to train their staff thoroughly on how to use a fire extinguisher correctly and to accurately assess the situation if a fire is to occur so that it can be determined if/when an evacuation needs to take place. OSHA has established annual training for employees as a minimal requirement for all places of business, and this training is helpful for homeowners as well.  

The PASS training technique is recommended: 

• P. Pull the pin on the extinguisher.
• A. Aim the nozzle of the hose at the base of the fire. 
• S. Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent. 
• S. Sweep the nozzle from side to side, directed at the base of the flames, until the fire is extinguished. 

Once someone knows how to properly operate a fire extinguisher, they should then also be trained to follow fire safety protocol. Such training should enable anyone to be able to:

• Locate and activate the fire alarm.
• Call the fire department and emergency responders immediately. 
• Determine a safe evacuation route that will direct people away from flames, excessive heat, and smoke. They should also know how to keep the route from becoming blocked
• Use the PASS technique for discharging a fire extinguisher (outlined above), and know the importance of backing away from the area if the fire flares up again. 
• Evacuate the area immediately if the fire is still going and the extinguisher is empty, or if the fire grows beyond what can be safely handled without fire department personnel. 

NOTE: Fire extinguishers are made to handle small fires only. If the environment becomes too dangerous, everyone should know when and how to evacuate. Excessive smoke and heat, impaired evacuation routes, and poor visibility are all conditions that can evolve very quickly, and people need to understand that safety comes first and foremost. 

SERVPRO of West Fort Worth is here to help with cleanup projects both large and small and are dedicated to getting your business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. We also handle mold prevention and remediation, as well as fire damage and water damage.

Holiday Fire Safety Tips

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

It’s exactly one week until Christmas! We’ve been busy at my house, baking cookies, decorating, and wrapping presents. It’s definitely been a very busy holiday season both at home and at work! We have quite a few house fires under our belt, and we wanted to remind everyone about the dangers of the holiday season, as it’s easy to forget about simple safety measures during the hustle and bustle of the holidays.

1. If you have a live tree, make sure to keep it watered! A dry tree can burn extremely fast, and extremely hot!
2. Keep lit candles away from flowy decorations and dry plants. Keep them up on a shelf, away from pets as well. If possible, use battery operated candles instead.
3. Inspect all your electrical decorations for frayed or damaged wires when you decorate, replace any electrical plugs that seem dangerous.
4. Keep close when you’re baking or cooking! Cooking related fires are all too common in the holiday season. Keep a close eye on that turkey, and make sure it’s very dry and room temperature if you’re frying one this Christmas.

Be safe, and from our family here at SERVPRO of Lake Worth/Benbrook to yours – have a great holiday!

Fort Worth Fires - We've Got That.

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Fires are devastating. They can happen at any time, no matter how careful an individual is on making their home as protected against fires as possible – the unthinkable can happen. Whether from a lightning strike, an accident happening in the kitchen or a short in your garage door opener – we’ve seen it all. And we can restore it all too. We are always ready for the call and we can start your fire loss as soon as possible. Whether it’s cleaning your precious belongings or the walls in your home we’ve got the crew, and the know-how to do it.

So, if you’ve been affected by a house fire, give us a call today at 817.560.3086 and we will be on our way to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Smoke Alarm Importance

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

Remember in school, when you used to have a fire fighter come into your class or a general assembly and talk about how important fire detectors are? I sure do, I also remember the coloring books that they handed out every time they spoke. To my six-year-old mind, I thought that those were  

They’re loud, and obnoxious, and they are so important.

Did you know that in 2012-2016 the NFPA estimates that fire departments respond to an estimated average of 355,400 home fires to the tune of 6.5 billion dollars’ worth of property damage? The leading cause of fires is cooking.

And that’s why it’s important to have smoke alarms in your homes, it’s important to do routine maintenance on your alarms like testing the alarms and replacing the batteries when needed. Make sure to have them in all areas of your house. It’s wise to have them in your kitchen, all your bedrooms, your living rooms, and even laundry rooms.

If you find yourself in the aftermath of a house fire, give us a call today at 817.560.3086!

Fires & Lightning

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

The rainy spring season maybe over, but we’re not out of the clear with our summer thunderstorms yet! And even though we’ve had a fairly wet spring, with lakes being over their normal levels and the soupy humidity still hanging in the air, it’s important to remember that there’s still a fire danger when it comes to the weather outside.

We aren’t dry enough yet to have wildfires, though that’s more seen on the edges of DFW, as I said above, we aren’t out of the clear for thunderstorms in the summer yet – and we’ve still got fall coming up too! You may find yourself wondering just what I’m talking about… I’m talking about lightning.

Your home could be struck by lightning! Did you know that Texas leads the nation in lightning strikes? It’s true! According to a company named Vaisala that measures lightning, Texas had 3.3 million cloud-to-ground lightning strikes alone in 2017! With those numbers, just think about how many houses are struck by lightning each year!

So, what do you do if your home is struck by lightning? Call the fire department first off. Make sure they do a full inspection of your home. Fires started by lightning can often lurk in your walls and spread quickly, causing a bigger fire. Follow your emergency plan as well to make sure your family is safe in the event of a fire.

If you’re looking for way to prevent your home from getting struck by lightning, look for a company that can install a lightning protection system on the roof of your home. The company will come out and install about ten-inch long copper rods on the roof of your home that will be connected to copper wires that run to the ground. They’ll help disperse the lightning away from your home and into the ground and preventing fires from starting. It’s also really smart to have your electronics hooked up to surge protectors.

If your home has been struck by lightning and caused a fire, give us a call today at 817.560.3086!

The Seriousness of Fires

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Fires are devastating. Not only are they life threatening, but they can be life changing events as well. In an instant your home and all your valuables can be gone. But it’s important to know that some can absolutely be salvaged! It’s why we work on restoring, not replacing. We have special chemical sponges that can wipe down walls to get the soot off, and we have a special washing machine that can fit up to 8 loads at a time to wash your clothes and get the soot smell out of them. We can restore all manner of things – just ask us!

If you’ve found yourself in the face of a fire, give us a call today at 817.560.3086!

Fire in Fort Worth? No problem!

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

As much as we talk about water losses, we don’t seem to really talk about fires all that much. Fires are another thing we have the ability to handle! Did you know that often times fires turn into water losses? Think – what puts out a fire? We have the equipment and the training to make sure your home or business is taken care of promptly in the event of a fire.

We have a state-of-the-art Esporta Machine, which can handle up to eight loads of laundry at a time and get out the toughest soot smells. We have a trained staff that can clean all of your items from soot to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Give us a call today at 817.560.3086 if you’ve been hit by a fire!

Holiday Safety Tips for Fort Worth

12/7/2018 (Permalink)

With the holiday season now upon us, there are a lot of things on our plates. From deciding what to get your cousin you drew for the family Secret Santa, to cookie exchanges at work it seems like the month before Christmas goes way too fast. For those of us who enjoy it, anyway.  It’s important in all the hubbub to stay safe this holiday season by following these tips.

1. Make sure to keep your tree watered. An under watered tree can dry out and be an extreme fire hazard.
2. When decorating, check all electrical decorations for sign of wear or tear. Anything old or worn should be replaced and thrown out. If you don’t want to throw away the entire decoration, you can buy replacement wiring.
3. Use fake candles instead of real candles when you do your decorating. Avoid open flame as much as possible. If you like the scent of candle, we suggest a wax burner though take caution with those as well.

From all of us here at SERVPRO of Lake Worth/Benbrook we hope you have a safe and happy holiday!

How To Avoid Fires While Grilling

7/26/2018 (Permalink)

Summer is here, and that means it is time for backyard grill outs! July is the top month for grill fires followed by May, June, and August. While flipping burgers and roasting hot dogs may seem simple, be sure to follow these tips to keep your party from burning out.

Keep the Grill Away From the House

While it may seem like a no brainer, lighting a grill inside your home can have disastrous consequences. Keep your grill out of the house (this includes kitchens, sunrooms, covered patios, and garages), and move it away from the house so that wayward flames do not ignite anything. Flare ups happen, so it is best to keep the grill away from anything flammable in order to avoid fire damage.

Keep it Clean

Failing to keep the grill clean was the leading cause of grill fires from 2011-2015. When you use your grill, fat and grease from your food will build up. Be sure to use a wire brush to scrape off any extra food that may have built up while you were cooking. Simply scraping the grill isn’t enough to ensure your safety; do a deep cleaning of your grill 2-3 times per year (or more if you use your grill often) and be sure to get all the nasty grease and build up out of all the nooks and crannies. In addition to helping prevent fires, keeping your grill clean is just plain hygiene! Nobody wants a burger with old fat stuck to it!

Never Leave the Grill Alone

This tip seems like another common-sense rule, but many properties catch fire because the grill was left unattended and was knocked over by kids or pets. Children under 5 accounted for about one third of contact-type burns. Keeping watch over the cooking area will help prevent your little ones from bumping into the grill or any hot equipment. Designate a grill master to keep watch over the grill and the area around it so that you catch any problems before they happen, and they can make sure the food is cooked to perfection.

Inspect Before You Grill

Propane grills are great for a backyard barbecue, but they also cause more fires than charcoal grills due to the more complicated equipment. Before you light the grill up, take a second to inspect your work station. Make sure the propane tank is connected to the grill correctly and that there are no leaks. A gas leak next to even the smallest flame can have huge consequences, so familiarize yourself with the way your grill works, and take care of the maintenance to keep it in working order.

Know What to do if a Fire Does Break Out

If a fire does break out, knowing what to do and acting quickly will keep everyone involved safe. Never use a squirt bottle to spray water on a grease fire. This can make the fire larger rather than putting it out, and small squirts of water are not likely to be enough to extinguish a fire anyway. Flour can also make things worse, so use baking soda, salt, or a fire extinguisher to combat flare ups. Keep a box of baking soda or a fire extinguisher where you can quickly and easily access it if a flame does get out of control.

The Importance of Smoke Detectors

7/26/2018 (Permalink)

We’ve all been in that scenario where you accidentally leave something in the oven slightly too long, and suddenly every smoke detector in the house is going off, but think twice before you take the batteries out of your device to prevent another interruption to your evening meal. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that three of every fire home fire deaths came from homes without smoke alarms, and the death rate for every 100 homes was more than twice as high in homes without functioning smoke detectors than in homes with them.

We are giving you these stats as a testimony to the importance of having a working smoke alarm on every level of your house; ideally, they should also be in each bedroom.  Install your alarms in the center of the ceiling or up high near the ceiling if they are placed on a wall. Since heat – and therefore smoke – rises, a smoke alarm that is up high can alert you before a smoke detector that is located lower on a wall.

Once you have your detectors installed, you must be sure to test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year. The alarms won’t be any use to you or your family if they are dead when an emergency arises.

We hope that you never find yourself with your house or business in flames, but if you do, SERVPRO of Lake Worth/Benbrook is here to help you get back on your feet again. Call us at 817.560.3086 to find out how we can restore your home and belongings after a fire.

Your Pets and Fire

6/29/2018 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Lake Worth/Benbrook, we love our pets and they’re a part of our families! We can’t imagine the possibility of our lives without them, which is why it’s important to be sure to make sure your pet is safe in the event of a fire. An estimated 500,000 pets are affected by fires annually, and 1,000 of those fires are started by pets who have knocked over candles or turned on stoves (United States Fire Administration). Because of the risk, we’ve put together some tips to help prevent and plan for a fire.

Prevention:

We cannot stress prevention enough! The number one way to make sure both you and your pet are protected from fires is to prevent them.

• Candles are the cause of an estimated 8,690 fires in the United States (National Fire Protection Association). While it may seem like a no brainer to blow out your candles before you leave the house or go to bed, we are human. Double check to make sure open flames are put out. Cats can knock over lit candles with their tails, or a dog might get excited and knock one off of a table.
• Keep electrical cords out of reach if your pet is a chewer, especially puppies. A puppy could chew through an electrical cord, which could cause a short. Not only is this dangerous for your puppy, but it’s also dangerous for your house.
• We like the warmth in the winter, and so do our pets! Keep bedding and toys away from fireplaces or other heating elements during the winter time.
• Test your smoke alarms! Make sure they’re working. Look to see where your pet goes to hide when they’re scared and make a note of it, so a firefighter can find them in the event of a fire.
• If you have a stove/oven that has knobs, try and take those off before you leave your home or go to bed at night. Animals can accidentally turn them on and catch anything that’s on top of the stove or in the oven on fire.

If There’s A Fire:

If the unimaginable happens and you do have a fire, below are some tips to keep your pet safe.

• In the event of a fire and you’re not at home, make sure your neighbors know how many pets you have and what their names are. You can also get a sign for your windows to let rescue workers know how many and what type of pets you may have in your home.
• Train your pet to come when she’s called so you won’t have to go looking for her just incase there is a fire.
• Keep leashes by the door so your pet can be evacuated easily, and you won’t have to carry an 80-pound dog out of the house.
• Have a pet emergency kit by either the door or in with yours. Make it easy to grab and go. Some things you’ll want to include are: a toy, medicine, treats, food, water, an extra collar and leash with tags, a first-aid kit, and any important documents you may need.
• Make sure your pet wears a collar with identification tags at all times just incase they get out of the home by themselves. If your pet manages to lose their collar by wiggling free or they aren’t wearing one, it’s a good idea to get your pet microchipped as well.
• Make a fire escape plan that includes your pet just incase there is a fire. Practice it with your whole family so everyone is on board.

In the event that you and your pet have been affected by a fire, give us a call! We are here to help 24/7. 817.560.3086

Six Most Common Causes Of Housefires

6/29/2018 (Permalink)

House fires are unimaginable, and something we never want to happen to our home. In 2016 a house fire was reported every 90 seconds, and the causes vary. It’s why you should be able to identify the most common causes of house fires, you’ll find the list of six in no particular order below.

1. Lighting

If your lamp shades or fittings are close to the light bulb, then there Is a possibility of them heating up and starting a fire. It’s good to keep lamps away from piles of clothing. If they get knocked over they could cause a fire as well.

2. Candles

We all love candles, I am personally a fan of any of the pine tree scent or leather. But if forgotten about they can cause a serious fire hazard. Make sure to keep your candles away from flammable items such as curtains, Christmas trees, books or mail, and tissues. If you have pets carefully supervise them so they don’t knock anything over and always blow out a candle before going to bed or leaving your home.

3. Smoking

Make sure the butts of your cigarettes are put out well. If not put out properly and the ashes are thrown in the trash or dropped on fabric such as furniture or carpeting, then they can cause a fire.

4. Heaters

If you have a heater to keep your electric bill down during the winter time, it’s a good idea to keep it away from anything that can catch fire easily like furniture, curtains or laundry. If you’re one of the few people that still have a furnace anymore, get it inspected yearly to make sure it’s still working properly.

5. Faulty Wiring

If you have faulty wiring in your home, it can cause fires from shorts or other electrical hazards. Fortunately, there are three signs you watch for when it comes to faulty wiring. First is if you blow a fuse or trip breakers more often than not. Second is if you need to disconnect one appliance in order for another one to work. Third is if your lights dim when you use another appliance.

6. Appliances or Other Equipment

Stoves and ovens, if left on with things inside or on them, can cause fires. Especially if they’re not cleaned properly. Things that use electricity to heat up like hair straighteners, toasters, and TVs should be inspected frequently for cord damage.

If you’ve suffered from a fire, and need help cleaning up, we can do that! No matter the type we are equipped to handle any size job. Give us a call today at 817.560.3086

Building A Fire Escape Plan

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

A household fire is something that we all think would never happen to us – but it starts with something as simple as a candle left alight or some faulty wiring. Suddenly, your home is engulfed in flames. Do you and your family have a plan for getting out of your home safely? A fire escape plan is an important tool to make sure your family knows what to do in the event of a fire.

Here are some tips to get your family prepared:

1. Make sure you gather everyone in the event of a fire. Walk through your home and note all the possible exit routes.
2. Draw up a floorplan of your home for a visual. Label each room and mark at least two exits per room – just in case one is blocked by fire or smoke.
3. Do a walkthrough of your house with your family and make sure everyone knows and understands the escape plan.
4. Choose a meeting place outside like a neighbor’s mailbox, a light post, or a stop sign. Be sure it’s a safe distance from the front of your home. Mark your meeting place on your escape plan.
5. Once you’re out, stay out! Do NOT go back into a burning building. If a family member is missing, let the fire department dispatcher know when you call.

If your home has been affected by a fire, we here at SERVPRO of Lake Worth/Benbrook are always here to help! Our phones are answered 24/7. Give us a call at 817.560.3086

Fire and Smoke Damage Experts in Fort Worth present Safety Tips for Extension Cords

12/8/2017 (Permalink)

Tis the Season... of extension cords.  

If your home is anything like ours in Fort Worth, you find yourself making use of extension cords.  Lights on the tree, lights on the home, other decorations needing power... the list can expand quickly.  Usually, these items end up plugged into an extension cord, and sometimes the extension cords end up plugged into other extension cords!

All of these cords present a number of hazards - the Fire and Smoke Damage experts of SERVPRO of Lake Worth / Benbrook want everyone to have a happy and safe holiday season, so we are offering these safety tips related to extension cords.

• Inspect all cords for damage prior to use. Cords that have exposed wires, frayed or cut insulation, cracked sockets or loose (or missing) prongs should not be used.
• Ensure the cords are designed and rated for the intended use and power load. Indoor/outdoor use, gauge of the cord, gauge of the items plugged into the cord and load through the cord should all be considered.
• Stop using any extension cord that feels hot to the touch - the danger presented by a hot cord is very real.  Unplug any hot cord immediately.
• Avoid pinching cords under doors, windows or heavy furniture. Extension cords are easily compromised if the insulation around the wires in the cord gets damaged.
• Extension cords pose a tripping hazard. Keep them out of walkways, doorways or any high traffic area.
• Do not run extension cords through walls, ceilings or under rugs. This may cause the cord to overheat.
• Extension cords should be a temporary solution - if you are using them year round, you should consider upgrading your electrical system in your home.

Here at SERVPRO of Lake Worth / Benbrook, we use extension cords nearly every week.  Safely using them is something we train on regularly, and being aware of potential hazards is always on our mind.  Keep the safety tips above in mind this holiday season and you should enjoy all of the festive decorations you desire.