Recent Fire Damage Posts

The Holidays: Fire Safety

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

Christmas trees are a very popular part of celebrating the holiday season. While Christmas tree fires are uncommon, the ensuing damage can be severe. Moreover, half of the reported Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical malfunctions and heat sources. Follow these tips to prevent Christmas tree fires in your home:

If you’re using a real Christmas tree, cut 2 inches from the base of the trunk before placing in the stand. This allows the tree to better absorb water.
Water the tree daily to make sure it stays hydrated. If your tree is about 6 feet tall, add about 1 gallon of water to the tree stand every day.
Keep the tree at a safe distance away from any heat source, such as radiators, fireplaces, lights or candles.
Ensure the tree is not blocking exits or footpaths, so it won’t get knocked over.
To decorate the tree, use only lights that are rated for indoor use. Also check for the label of an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters’ Laboratory (UL).
Before using lights, ensure there are no frayed wires, broken bulbs and cords, cracked sockets or loose bulb connections.
Don’t overload electrical outlets or extension cords. Plug lights into different circuits around your home.
Turn off the Christmas lights when going to bed or leaving home.
Never use burning candles to decorate a tree. Use battery-operated, flameless LED candles instead.
After Christmas, or when the real tree dries out and starts dropping needles, discard it. Dry trees are a fire hazard, so don’t keep yours in the home or garage. Find a recycling program in your community.
For increased Christmas tree safety, consider purchasing a Christmas tree safety system. These devices warn you when there is low water in the tree stand or if a fire starts. Even if you use such a safety system, always make sure your smoke alarms are working and test them monthly.

Enjoy a safe holiday season by being vigilant of fire hazards in your home. For professional emergency smoke damage repair or fire damage repair, contact your local SERVPRO office at (662)-287-7881

Fireplace Safety Tips for the Upcoming Winter Season

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

It’s almost that time of the year when it’s time to drink a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace cuddled up in blankets, but fireplaces can be potentially very dangerous for you and your home. Following the tips below will help prevent any fire damage to your home.


Fireplace safety tips
• Before winter, get your chimney cleaned really well before use.
• Inspect your chimney cap regularly for damages and replace and fix anything that might be damaged.
• Keep flammable objects, such as newspapers, books, and furniture, at least two feet away from the fireplace.
• Make sure there is a fire extinguisher in your house and make sure its easily able to access.
• Have a metal screen or glass doors installed to prevent embers and ashes from shooting out of the fireplace.
• Supervise children whenever the fireplace is being used. Remind them to stay away from the fire. Keep pets at a safe distance from the fire, as well.
• Always supervise the fire and never leave it burning when you go to sleep or if you are leaving your home.
• Install and maintain smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.
When starting the fireplace:
• Remove the ashes from the previous fire but let them cool for several hours before disposing of them.
• Place crumpled paper on the grate and cover it with kindling or another Firestarter. Do not use flammable liquids to start a fireplace. Add the firewood once the kindling is burning brightly. Then, close the fire screen.
• Don’t overload the fireplace.
• Never burn plastic, garbage or other toxic materials.


Call SERVPRO today at (662)-287-7881 with any questions you may have about our fire restoration services! We are always here to help!

Candle Safety

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

It’s that time of the year whenever the smell of fall and wintery candles fill the homes of our loved ones and friends with the delightful scents, but candles can be very dangerous for your home if you don’t know how to handle them properly. Always remember that open flames are potential fire hazards.

Safety tips
• Burn candles in well-ventilated rooms. Don’t burn too many candles in a small room..
• Keep candles away from flammable objects, like furniture, curtains, paper, plants, or electronics.
• Burn candles on heat-resistant surfaces.
• Keep lit candles apart from one another so they can’t potentially melt each other
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
• Always supervise candles do not leave them lit when you leave home.
• Don’t use candles in bedrooms or other sleeping areas.
• Don’t move candles when they’re burning you could potentially drop the candle and cause a fire.
• Avoid using candles during a power outage. Using or handling candles in the dark increases the risk of fire or injuries. Use flashlights and battery-powered lighting instead.
• Consider replacing burning candles with other products like Scentsys that just heat and melt the wax instead of their being an open flame.

If you have any questions about our fire restoration services you can call SERVPRO at (662)-287-7881 today! Remember we are always here to help!

Are you a victim of a Fire Damage? Call SERVPRO Today for Fire Damage Services!

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

When we visit your home after a fire loss, we will scope the effected areas to determine the extent of the loss. We will always pretest affected surfaces to determine the type of smoke and which products will help us recover the area most effectively. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. If a fire has damaged your home, call us right away at (662) 287-7881. SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka will treat you and your family with empathy and respect, and your property with care.  

Smoke and soot facts:

  • Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
  • Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
  • The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today –(662) 287-7881

Do You Have Small Children in Your Home? Here are some fire safety tips for you.

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

When creating an escape plan in your home, you should go over it with your children so they know how to get out the house. Kids typically don’t think about how they would escape from their home in a fire, so this is an important discussion to have with them.

Have a plan in place for children that cannot get out on their own, such as infants and toddlers. Talk about which family member is going to wake up the children and help them get out.
Always identify two different ways out of every room. You should know multiple ways to exit in every room in case one exit is blocked, or it is too dangerous to use.
Choose a destination outside the house to meet, a safe distance away. This could be across the street, or at a neighbors’ home.
In addition to fire prevention with children, there is the concern of burn prevention. In many instances of fires started by children, serious burn injuries can occur. Here are some tips to help keep your kids safe from fire and burns.

Children should be at least 3 feet away from anything hot. Stoves, space heaters, and curling irons are all good examples where additional caution is necessary.
Keep any kind of smoking materials away and placed up high, such as lighters and matches.
Never play with matches or lighters when your children are around. If they see adults doing this, they will think that it is okay, and possibly even fun.
Accidents can happen at any time. But with some mindful planning, many of these can be completely avoided. If something should still happen, just know that SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka is here to help anytime. Give us a call at 662-287-7881

Fire Safety Checklist

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Home Fire Safety Checklist

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

  • Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide in every bedroom
  • Test alarms monthly
  • Change batteries every once in a while
  • Replace all smoke alarms when needed

Fire extinguishers

  • Know where your fire extinguisher
  • Place fire extinguishers on every level of your home
  • Only use them for small fires in confined areas only.

Fire escape plan

  • Create a fire escape plan that includes the whole family
  • Establish multiple escape routes for you and your family
  • Determine a meeting spot outside the home
  • Make sure that all family members know how to contact each other in case of an emergency.
  • Learn the stop, drop, and roll technique
  • Practice the plan with your family.

Kitchen

  • The kitchen is where most home fires originate
  •  Never leave the oven or stove unattended when cooking and do not leave it on after cooking

Smoking

  • Never smoke in bed or when feeling drowsy.
  • No smoking inside
  • Dip cigarette butts in water before disposing of them
  • Always put cigarettes out completely

Candles

  • Do not leave candles burning
  • Use candles in a well-ventilated area
  • Use battery operated candles if the power should go out
  • Keep lit candles at least three inches apart so that they won’t melt one another

Children

  • Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach for their protection
  • Store matches and lighters in a secure drawer or cabinet.
  • Avoid using matches or lighters in front of children
  • Ensure children don’t touch or play near heaters or fire places

Fireplaces

  • Have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly
  • Keep any flammable objects at least two feet away from the fireplace
  • Have a fire screen installed to prevent embers from shooting out of the fireplace.
  • Never leave a fireplace on while sleeping or leaving the house

Electrical safety

  • Have the electrical wiring in your home checked.
  • Replace frayed or damaged cords that are found
  • Don’t overload extension cords or outlets

Taking precautions and going by this checklist above will help keep you and your home safe and prevent any fire damage occurrence. If you do have a future fire damage we are always here to help. Call SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka today at (662) 287-7881!

Burning Candle Safety Tips

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

It’s that time of the year whenever the smell of fall and wintery candles fill the homes of our loved ones and friends with the delightful scents, but candles can be very dangerous for your home if you don’t know how to handle them properly. Always remember that open flames are potential fire hazards.

Safety tips
• Burn candles in well-ventilated rooms. Don’t burn too many candles in a small room..
• Keep candles away from flammable objects, like furniture, curtains, paper, plants, or electronics.
• Burn candles on heat-resistant surfaces.
• Keep lit candles apart from one another so they can’t potentially melt each other
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
• Always supervise candles do not leave them lit when you leave home.
• Don’t use candles in bedrooms or other sleeping areas.
• Don’t move candles when they’re burning you could potentially drop the candle and cause a fire.
• Avoid using candles during a power outage. Using or handling candles in the dark increases the risk of fire or injuries. Use flashlights and battery-powered lighting instead.
• Consider replacing burning candles with other products like Scentsys that just heat and melt the wax instead of their being an open flame.

If you have any questions about our fire restoration services you can call SERVPRO at (662)-287-7881 today! Remember we are always here to help!

Children Fire Safety

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

When creating an escape plan in your home, you should go over it with your children so they know how to get out the house. Kids typically don’t think about how they would escape from their home in a fire, so this is an important discussion to have with them.

  • Have a plan in place for children that cannot get out on their own, such as infants and toddlers. Talk about which family member is going to wake up the children and help them get out.
  • Always identify two different ways out of every room. You should know multiple ways to exit in every room in case one exit is blocked, or it is too dangerous to use.
  • Choose a destination outside the house to meet, a safe distance away. This could be across the street, or at a neighbors’ home.

In addition to fire prevention with children, there is the concern of burn prevention. In many instances of fires started by children, serious burn injuries can occur. Here are some tips to help keep your kids safe from fire and burns.

  • Children should be at least 3 feet away from anything hot. Stoves, space heaters, and curling irons are all good examples where additional caution is necessary.
  • Keep any kind of smoking materials away and placed up high, such as lighters and matches.
  • Never play with matches or lighters when your children are around. If they see adults doing this, they will think that it is okay, and possibly even fun.

 Accidents can happen at any time. But with some mindful planning, many of these can be completely avoided. If something should still happen, just know that SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka is here to help anytime. Give us a call at 662-287-7881

Are you in need of fire damage services? Call SERVPRO today!

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

It’s always devastating when a family experiences a house fire, but SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka works hard to recover the structure and contents. We are able to remove the soot damage and even the smell of the smoke from homes. Our goal is always to make your home “Like it never even happened.” 

What To Expect: 

When we visit your home after a fire loss, we will scope the effected areas to determine the extent of the loss. We will always pretest affected surfaces to determine the type of smoke and which products will help us recover the area most effectively. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. If a fire has damaged your home, call us right away at (662) 287-7881. SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka will treat you and your family with empathy and respect, and your property with care.  

Smoke and soot facts:

  • Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
  • Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
  • The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today –(662) 287-7881

Has Your Home Suffered From Fire Damage? Call SERVPRO Today!

2/28/2021 (Permalink)

It’s always devastating when a family experiences a house fire, but SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka works hard to recover the structure and contents. We are able to remove the soot damage and even the smell of the smoke from homes. Our goal is always to make your home “Like it never even happened.”

What To Expect:
When we visit your home after a fire loss, we will scope the effected areas to determine the extent of the loss. We will always pretest affected surfaces to determine the type of smoke and which products will help us recover the area most effectively. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. If a fire has damaged your home, call us right away at (662) 287-7881. SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka will treat you and your family with empathy and respect, and your property with care.

Smoke and soot facts:
Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today –(662) 287-7881

Fire Safety Tips For Families With Small Children

2/28/2021 (Permalink)

When creating an escape plan in your home, you should go over it with your children so they know how to get out the house. Kids typically don’t think about how they would escape from their home in a fire, so this is an important discussion to have with them.

Have a plan in place for children that cannot get out on their own, such as infants and toddlers. Talk about which family member is going to wake up the children and help them get out.
Always identify two different ways out of every room. You should know multiple ways to exit in every room in case one exit is blocked, or it is too dangerous to use.
Choose a destination outside the house to meet, a safe distance away. This could be across the street, or at a neighbors’ home.
In addition to fire prevention with children, there is the concern of burn prevention. In many instances of fires started by children, serious burn injuries can occur. Here are some tips to help keep your kids safe from fire and burns.

Children should be at least 3 feet away from anything hot. Stoves, space heaters, and curling irons are all good examples where additional caution is necessary.
Keep any kind of smoking materials away and placed up high, such as lighters and matches.
Never play with matches or lighters when your children are around. If they see adults doing this, they will think that it is okay, and possibly even fun.
Accidents can happen at any time. But with some mindful planning, many of these can be completely avoided. If something should still happen, just know that SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka is here to help anytime. Give us a call at 662-287-7881

Call SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka For Smoke or Soot Cleanup

2/28/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.

Smoke and soot facts:

Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (662) 287-7881

Fireplace Safety Tips

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

It’s almost that time of the year when it’s time to drink a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace cuddled up in blankets, but fireplaces can be potentially very dangerous for you and your home. Following the tips below will help prevent any fire damage to your home.


Fireplace safety tips
• Before winter, get your chimney cleaned really well before use.
• Inspect your chimney cap regularly for damages and replace and fix anything that might be damaged.
• Keep flammable objects, such as newspapers, books, and furniture, at least two feet away from the fireplace.
• Make sure there is a fire extinguisher in your house and make sure its easily able to access.
• Have a metal screen or glass doors installed to prevent embers and ashes from shooting out of the fireplace.
• Supervise children whenever the fireplace is being used. Remind them to stay away from the fire. Keep pets at a safe distance from the fire, as well.
• Always supervise the fire and never leave it burning when you go to sleep or if you are leaving your home.
• Install and maintain smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.
When starting the fireplace:
• Remove the ashes from the previous fire but let them cool for several hours before disposing of them.
• Place crumpled paper on the grate and cover it with kindling or another Firestarter. Do not use flammable liquids to start a fireplace. Add the firewood once the kindling is burning brightly. Then, close the fire screen.
• Don’t overload the fireplace.
• Never burn plastic, garbage or other toxic materials.


Call SERVPRO today at (662)-287-7881 with any questions you may have about our fire restoration services! We are always here to help!

Holiday Fire Safety

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Christmas trees are a very popular part of celebrating the holiday season. While Christmas tree fires are uncommon, the ensuing damage can be severe. Moreover, half of the reported Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical malfunctions and heat sources. Follow these tips to prevent Christmas tree fires in your home:

If you’re using a real Christmas tree, cut 2 inches from the base of the trunk before placing in the stand. This allows the tree to better absorb water.
Water the tree daily to make sure it stays hydrated. If your tree is about 6 feet tall, add about 1 gallon of water to the tree stand every day.
Keep the tree at a safe distance away from any heat source, such as radiators, fireplaces, lights or candles.
Ensure the tree is not blocking exits or footpaths, so it won’t get knocked over.
To decorate the tree, use only lights that are rated for indoor use. Also check for the label of an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters’ Laboratory (UL).
Before using lights, ensure there are no frayed wires, broken bulbs and cords, cracked sockets or loose bulb connections.
Don’t overload electrical outlets or extension cords. Plug lights into different circuits around your home.
Turn off the Christmas lights when going to bed or leaving home.
Never use burning candles to decorate a tree. Use battery-operated, flameless LED candles instead.
After Christmas, or when the real tree dries out and starts dropping needles, discard it. Dry trees are a fire hazard, so don’t keep yours in the home or garage. Find a recycling program in your community.
For increased Christmas tree safety, consider purchasing a Christmas tree safety system. These devices warn you when there is low water in the tree stand or if a fire starts. Even if you use such a safety system, always make sure your smoke alarms are working and test them monthly.

Enjoy a safe holiday season by being vigilant of fire hazards in your home. For professional emergency smoke damage repair or fire damage repair, contact your local SERVPRO office at (662)-287-7881

Candle Lighting Safety Tips

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

It’s that time of the year whenever the smell of fall and wintery candles fill the homes of our loved ones and friends with the delightful scents, but candles can be very dangerous for your home if you don’t know how to handle them properly. Always remember that open flames are potential fire hazards.

Safety tips
• Burn candles in well-ventilated rooms. Don’t burn too many candles in a small room..
• Keep candles away from flammable objects, like furniture, curtains, paper, plants, or electronics.
• Burn candles on heat-resistant surfaces.
• Keep lit candles apart from one another so they can’t potentially melt each other
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
• Always supervise candles do not leave them lit when you leave home.
• Don’t use candles in bedrooms or other sleeping areas.
• Don’t move candles when they’re burning you could potentially drop the candle and cause a fire.
• Avoid using candles during a power outage. Using or handling candles in the dark increases the risk of fire or injuries. Use flashlights and battery-powered lighting instead.
• Consider replacing burning candles with other products like Scentsys that just heat and melt the wax instead of their being an open flame.

If you have any questions about our fire restoration services you can call SERVPRO at (662)-287-7881 today! Remember we are always here to help!

Fire Damage Safety Checklist

3/1/2020 (Permalink)

Home Fire Safety Checklist

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

  • Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide in every bedroom
  • Test alarms monthly
  • Change batteries every once in a while
  • Replace all smoke alarms when needed

Fire extinguishers

  • Know where your fire extinguisher
  • Place fire extinguishers on every level of your home
  • Only use them for small fires in confined areas only.

Fire escape plan

  • Create a fire escape plan that includes the whole family
  • Establish multiple escape routes for you and your family
  • Determine a meeting spot outside the home
  • Make sure that all family members know how to contact each other in case of an emergency.
  • Learn the stop, drop, and roll technique
  • Practice the plan with your family.

Kitchen

  • The kitchen is where most home fires originate
  •  Never leave the oven or stove unattended when cooking and do not leave it on after cooking

Smoking

  • Never smoke in bed or when feeling drowsy.
  • No smoking inside
  • Dip cigarette butts in water before disposing of them
  • Always put cigarettes out completely

Candles

  • Do not leave candles burning
  • Use candles in a well-ventilated area
  • Use battery operated candles if the power should go out
  • Keep lit candles at least three inches apart so that they won’t melt one another

Children

  • Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach for their protection
  • Store matches and lighters in a secure drawer or cabinet.
  • Avoid using matches or lighters in front of children
  • Ensure children don’t touch or play near heaters or fire places

Fireplaces

  • Have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly
  • Keep any flammable objects at least two feet away from the fireplace
  • Have a fire screen installed to prevent embers from shooting out of the fireplace.
  • Never leave a fireplace on while sleeping or leaving the house

Electrical safety

  • Have the electrical wiring in your home checked.
  • Replace frayed or damaged cords that are found
  • Don’t overload extension cords or outlets

Taking precautions and going by this checklist above will help keep you and your home safe and prevent any fire damage occurrence. If you do have a future fire damage we are always here to help. Call SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka today at (662) 287-7881!

Fire Damage: Smoke and Soot Cleanup

3/1/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

  • Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
  • Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
  • The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

  • Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

  • Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

  • Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care. Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – (662) 287-7881

Fire Damage Prevention: Test Your Smoke Alarms

3/1/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know only 79% of battery-operated smoke alarms operate effectively in home fires? Test your alarms. Your life could depend on it. 

How to Test Your Smoke Alarms

You should always check the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper method of testing your smoke detector and fire alarm. But, in general, most battery-powered and hardwired smoke detectors can be tested in the following way:

Step 1. Alert family members that you will be testing the alarm. Smoke detectors have a high-pitched alarm that may frighten small children, so you’ll want to let everyone know you plan to test the alarms to help avoid frightening anyone.

Step 2. Station a family member at the furthest point away from the alarm in your home. This can be critical to help make sure the alarm can be heard everywhere in your home. You may want to install extra detectors in areas where the alarm’s sound is low, muffled or weak.

Step 3. Press and hold the test button on the smoke detector. It can take a few seconds to begin, but a loud, ear-piercing siren should emanate from the smoke detector while the button is pressed. If the sound is weak or nonexistent, replace your batteries. If it has been more than six months since you last replaced the batteries (whether your detector is battery-powered or hardwired), change them now regardless of the test result, and test the new batteries one final time to help ensure proper functioning. You should also look at your smoke detector to make sure there’s no dust or other substance blocking its grates, which may prevent it from working even if the batteries are new.

Remember, smoke detectors have a normal life span of 10 years, according to the USFA. Even if you’ve performed regular maintenance, and your device is still functional, you should replace a smoke detector after the 10-year period or earlier, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions.

Installing smoke detectors can be a great way to help keep your family safe, but assuming they are working may lead to a dangerous situation. Taking a few minutes to check them regularly can help ensure they’re working properly.
(Information via Allstate blog website). Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (662)287-7881

Fireplace Safety Tips

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Home fires happen all the time, accidents happen. Most fires in the home come from the chimney and fireplace. These fires are usually caused by failing to clean the chimney regularly or placing objects too close to the fireplace. Here are some tips to learn how to use your fireplace safely this winter:

  • Before winter comes, hire a professional to come and inspect and remove obstructions or debris and do a deep cleaning of your chimney.
  • Make sure your chimney has a cap at the top to keep unwanted debris or animals out.
  • Keep any flammable objects away from the fireplace to avoid accidental fires.
  • Make sure there is a fire extinguisher in your home, and that your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are properly working.
  • Have a covering over the fireplace to block any sparks or embers from shooting out.
  • When starting a fire:
    • Remove all ashes from the previous fire before lighting another fire.
    • Don’t overload the fireplace with excess wood; a large fire generates more smoke and can damage your chimney.
    • Never use flammable liquids to start a fire and don’t burn any kind of materials in a home fireplace.
  • Keep children and pets away from the fireplace to ensure safety.
  • Never leave the fireplace burning when going to sleep or leaving the home.
  • Always make sure to keep your fireplace and chimney cleaned regularly.

The winter months are upon us and that’s when it’s time to start using home fireplaces again. Following these guidelines above will help ensure the safety of you, your family, and your home. Call your local SERVPRO today at (662)-287-7881 with any fire restoration service questions you may have. We are always here to help!

Common Causes of Home Fires

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Home fires can happen at any time, but taking precautions can help save your home for unforeseen fire damages. Although some home fire causes are quite obvious, it’s important to be aware of anything that may cause a fire in your home. Here is a list of common causes of home fires with tips on how to prevent these from happening:

Cooking

Cooking is the number one cause of home fires. Leaving cooking unsupervised could lead to a disaster. You should never leave food that you are cooking unattended. Always supervise the stove top when cooking and keep the kitchen surfaces free from grease or anything flammable to prevent fires.

Heating Equipment

During the colder months, heating equipment, like fireplaces or space heaters are among a list of major fire risks in homes. Place heaters at a safe distance away from flammable objects and always supervise them. Do not ever go to sleep or leave the home while a fireplace is going or if space heaters are on. Keep your chimney free of debris and obstructions. Keep your fireplace and chimney well cleaned.

Electrical Causes

Outdated wiring, breaker boxes, and old appliances are potential threats for a fire. Plugging too many appliances into an extension cord can cause the cords to overheat and start a fire also.

Candles

Candle fires are more frequent during holidays, such as Christmas and Halloween. People tend to forget that they have lit a candle. Always make sure to blow out candles before leaving your home. Keep candles away from flammable materials to avoid a fire. Using battery-operated candles instead of real ones is much safer.

Kids Playing with Fire

Some children play with fire out of curiosity, not realizing that it’s very dangerous. Keep lighters and matches away from children. Also, try to avoid using them in front of your children because younger children are very observant and may try to mock what you do. Keep children at a safe distance from the fire place so accidents do not happen.

To help prevent fires in your home, install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and a sprinkler system to ensure the safety of your home. Call your local SERVPRO at (662)-287-7881 with any fire restoration service questions you may have. We are always here to help!

What to Do After a House Fire?

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Having a fire damage can be devastating and stressful. In the aftermath of a home fire, it’s very important to know what you need to do after the fact. Here is what to do:

Contact your insurance agent immediately

Your first priority is to call your insurance agent and let them know what your situation is. Discuss your options on what to do to restore your home and the amount of your insurance deductible with your insurance agent. Ask for ways to secure your home and for recommendations of restoration companies.

Choose SERVPRO for you fire restoration needs

SERVPRO is the way to go! We understand how stressful it is to have to deal with a disaster like a home fire. We understand and our first priority is restoring your home to new so we can get you back into your home as soon as possible. We want all our customers to trust us and rely on us to fix the issues and you not have to worry about a thing. We are always here to help 24/7.

Ensure your safety

This can also be your first priority please be safe if you decide to enter the house after the fire. Asking the fire department if it is safe to enter the home is the right thing to do in order to save yourself from potential hazards you may encounter in the home.

Here’s why a house may be dangerous after a fire. Soot from the fire leaves a dark residue hiding things that could be a possible hazard. The structure of your home may be compromised there may be falling debris, and there may even be some electrical issues going on.

For fire & smoke damage restoration, call SERVPRO!

From the time the first call is received until the mitigation is complete, a professional restoration company is essential in handling the claim and in managing the cost. Learn more about your local SERVPRO and fire restoration services on our website https://www.SERVPROcorinthiuka.com/

 For fire restoration services after experiencing fire and smoke damage, contact your local SERVPRO office at (662)-287-7881. We are always here to help!

Fires can be devastating, Give us a call today at SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

It’s always devastating when a family experiences a house fire, but SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka works hard to recover the structure and contents. We are able to remove the soot damage and even the smell of the smoke from homes. Our goal is always to make your home “Like it never even happened.” 

What To Expect: 

When we visit your home after a fire loss, we will scope the effected areas to determine the extent of the loss. We will always pretest affected surfaces to determine the type of smoke and which products will help us recover the area most effectively. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. If a fire has damaged your home, call us right away at (662) 287-7881. SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka will treat you and your family with empathy and respect, and your property with care.  

Smoke and soot facts:

  • Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
  • Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
  • The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today –(662) 287-7881

Outdoor fire safety tips

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Spring is almost here and that leads to summer.Spring  and summer means grilling out and lighting up a fire to sit around once the sun goes down. Here at SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka, we like to take full advantage of the warmer weather! We also love a good cook out, so we move from cooking inside to outside on the grill. While we look forward to this time of year, it is important to keep these fire safety tips in mind.

Grilling:

  • Keep at least a three foot clearance around the entire grill. Keep kids and pets clear of this area too!
  • Move the grill away from the house and fence, and move it out from underneath any overhangs. Do not use the grill under trees or near shrubbery.
  • Regularly clean out the grease traps on your grill to prevent grease fires.
  • Never leave your grill unattended!
  • If using charcoal, make sure the coals have cooled completely before disposing of them in a metal container.
  • Keeping a fire extinguisher or a big box of baking soda in the vicinity is good idea in case a fire does breakout.

Bonfires:

  • When a burn ban is in effect, use a fire pit, preferably with a lid that can cover the fire in case of an emergency.
  • When a burn ban is not in effect, you can burn on the ground where the grass is low and green. Never burn on grass that is long or dry! Take a hose and saturate the area around the fire with water to help prevent it from spreading.
  • Drag a hose over to where you’re burning. If you have a sprayer on your hose, turn the water on and keep it on until you’re through with your fire in case of an emergency.
  • Never have a fire under trees or overhangs, near shrubbery, or close to the house.
  • Keep flammable materials away from fires.
  • Never leave a fire unattended.
  • Never have a fire on a windy day!

Here at SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka we are always here to help! If you have any questions on fire safety give our office a call at 662-287-7881!

Fire Safety Tips for Children

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

When creating an escape plan in your home, you should go over it with your children so they know how to get out the house. Kids typically don’t think about how they would escape from their home in a fire, so this is an important discussion to have with them.

  • Have a plan in place for children that cannot get out on their own, such as infants and toddlers. Talk about which family member is going to wake up the children and help them get out.
  • Always identify two different ways out of every room. You should know multiple ways to exit in every room in case one exit is blocked, or it is too dangerous to use.
  • Choose a destination outside the house to meet, a safe distance away. This could be across the street, or at a neighbors’ home.

In addition to fire prevention with children, there is the concern of burn prevention. In many instances of fires started by children, serious burn injuries can occur. Here are some tips to help keep your kids safe from fire and burns.

  • Children should be at least 3 feet away from anything hot. Stoves, space heaters, and curling irons are all good examples where additional caution is necessary.
  • Keep any kind of smoking materials away and placed up high, such as lighters and matches.
  • Never play with matches or lighters when your children are around. If they see adults doing this, they will think that it is okay, and possibly even fun.

 Accidents can happen at any time. But with some mindful planning, many of these can be completely avoided. If something should still happen, just know that SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka is here to help anytime. Give us a call at 662-287-7881

Holiday Lights Safety Tips

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

There’s something magical about lights during the holiday season … but also something dangerous. Holiday lighting poses a real fire risk if not used safely. So before you deck the halls, be sure to check out these holiday lights safety tips:

Christmas Trees

  • Use only Christmas tree lights that are rated for indoor use and tested for safety. Check for the label of an independent testing laboratory like Underwriters’ Laboratory (UL).
  • If you have a metallic Christmas tree, never put electric lights on it to avoid the risk of electric shock.
  • Before using lights, check each set of lights for worn or broken cords, broken or cracked sockets, and loose bulb connections. Replace damaged lights.
  • Connect no more than three standard-size sets of lights into an extension cord. Don’t overload electrical outlets or extension cords, instead plug lights into different circuits around your home.
  • Don’t fasten colored spotlights onto metallic trees. Use them above or beside your tree to prevent tree branches from becoming charged with electricity from faulty lights.
  • Turn off the all Christmas lights and decorations when going to bed or leaving home.
  • Keep pets safe by protecting electric cords and tree lights so that they can’t chew them and get electrocuted.

Outdoor Lights

  • Make sure outdoor lights are rated for exterior use by an independent testing laboratory. Exterior lights and extension cords used outdoors need to be weather-resistant.
  • Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, house, walls or other firm support to protect from wind damage. However, don’t attach light strings with nails or staples as these can cut through the wire insulation and start a fire. Use only UL-approved hangers.
  • Take exterior lights down within 90 days to prevent hazards from weather damage or critters chewing on them.
  • Store lights safely after taking them down. Tangled lights can lead to damaged cords and broken sockets. They’re also a pain to untangle! Wrap the strings around a piece of cardboard, cover them in paper or fabric, and then store in a sturdy container until next year.

Candles

  • Never use real candles to decorate a tree. Use battery-operated, flameless LED candles instead.
  • If you do use real candles, follow these candle fire safety guidelines:
    • Use only non-flammable candle holders.
    • Place candles where they can’t be knocked down or blown over.
    • Keep candles away from any flammable objects like decorations or drapes.
    • Never burn candles near trees or greenery.
    • Always keep burning candles within your sight.
    • Extinguish all candles before going to bed, leaving the room or leaving your home.

Call your local SERVPRO at (662)-287-7881.

How to Prepare Your Home for Fall and Winter Months

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

When cold weather arrives, you dust off your warm shoes and jackets, and turn the heat up in your home. But have you thought about getting your home ready for the cold season? Here’s a fall and winter home maintenance checklist every homeowner should follow:

  • Get Your Heating System Serviced – Before cranking up the heat, hire a technician to inspect your furnace and heat pump. This ensures your heating system works at the recommended efficiency and that carbon monoxide leaks are prevented.
  • Reverse Ceiling Fans – Since heat rises, turning your ceiling fans in reverse could help heat up your rooms. This might allow you to turn down your thermostat by one or two degrees and save energy.
  • Clean the Gutters – Doing this task regularly prevents water from leaking on your home, causing damage. When temperatures drop below freezing point, having clean gutters also helps prevent ice dams. Ensure that gutters and downspouts aren’t worn or damaged.
  • Divert Water Away from Your Home’s Foundation – While you’re checking the downspouts, make sure they divert water at least three to four feet away from the foundation. If they don’t, add extensions to downspouts.
  • Prevent Ice Dams – Ice dams on your roof is a sign that your attic is not properly insulated. Your attic must be cool to prevent snow on the roof from melting, which causes ice dams. Make sure your attic has enough ventilation and there aren’t air leaks that heat up your attic.
  • Inspect Your Roof – Carefully look for missing, loose or damaged shingles. Better do it now before it starts snowing to avoid leaks and water damage when snow thaws. 
  • Seal Windows and Doors – Moisture and cold air can get inside your walls through gaps around windows, door frames, and where pipes enter your house. Caulk up the gaps that are bigger than the width of a nickel.
  • Turn off Exterior Faucets and Sprinklers – The water in outdoor pipes can freeze and cause the pipes to burst as the ice in them expands. To prevent that, disconnect garden hoses and drain all the water in exterior pipes. Alternatively, replace exterior faucets with freeze-proof faucets.
  • Drain Your Sprinkler System – Buried irrigation lines can also freeze, leading to burst pipes and damage to sprinkler heads. To best drain the sprinkler system, hire an irrigation technician to blow out the systems pipes with compressed air.
  • Mulch Leaves – Instead of raking the leaves on your lawn, mulch them. The resulting compost provides nourishment to your lawn. Also, when stowing your mower for the winter, add stabilizer to the fuel tank to protect the engine if the tank still contains fuel.
  • Inspect Your Fireplace – To ensure your fireplace is in good repair throughout the cold season, ensure the damper opens and closes properly. Look up into the flue to make sure it’s free of obstructions. Also check your firebox for damaged or missing bricks or mortar, or hire a chimney sweep to do the job.

During the cold months, it’s also important to be aware of heating safety concerns. For professional smoke remediation or fire damage repair, contact your local SERVPRO office at (662)-287-7881

Christmas Tree Safety Tips

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

Christmas trees are a very popular part of celebrating the holiday season. While Christmas tree fires are uncommon, the ensuing damage can be severe. Moreover, half of the reported Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical malfunctions and heat sources. Follow these tips to prevent Christmas tree fires in your home:

  • If you’re using a real Christmas tree, cut 2 inches from the base of the trunk before placing in the stand. This allows the tree to better absorb water.
  • Water the tree daily to make sure it stays hydrated. If your tree is about 6 feet tall, add about 1 gallon of water to the tree stand every day.
  • Keep the tree at a safe distance away from any heat source, such as radiators, fireplaces, lights or candles.
  • Ensure the tree is not blocking exits or footpaths, so it won’t get knocked over.
  • To decorate the tree, use only lights that are rated for indoor use. Also check for the label of an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters’ Laboratory (UL).
  • Before using lights, ensure there are no frayed wires, broken bulbs and cords, cracked sockets or loose bulb connections.
  • Don’t overload electrical outlets or extension cords. Plug lights into different circuits around your home.
  • Turn off the Christmas lights when going to bed or leaving home.
  • Never use burning candles to decorate a tree. Use battery-operated, flameless LED candles instead.
  • After Christmas, or when the real tree dries out and starts dropping needles, discard it. Dry trees are a fire hazard, so don’t keep yours in the home or garage. Find a recycling program in your community.

For increased Christmas tree safety, consider purchasing a Christmas tree safety system. These devices warn you when there is low water in the tree stand or if a fire starts. Even if you use such a safety system, always make sure your smoke alarms are working and test them monthly. 

Enjoy a safe holiday season by being vigilant of fire hazards in your home. For professional emergency smoke damage repair or fire damage repair, contact your local SERVPRO office at (662)-287-7881

Keep your Kids Safe with these Fire Safety tips

3/8/2018 (Permalink)

When creating an escape plan in your home, you should go over it with your children so they know how to get out the house. Kids typically don’t think about how they would escape from their home in a fire, so this is an important discussion to have with them.

  • Have a plan in place for children that cannot get out on their own, such as infants and toddlers. Talk about which family member is going to wake up the children and help them get out.
  • Always identify two different ways out of every room. You should know multiple ways to exit in every room in case one exit is blocked, or it is too dangerous to use.
  • Choose a destination outside the house to meet, a safe distance away. This could be across the street, or at a neighbors’ home.

In addition to fire prevention with children, there is the concern of burn prevention. In many instances of fires started by children, serious burn injuries can occur. Here are some tips to help keep your kids safe from fire and burns.

  • Children should be at least 3 feet away from anything hot. Stoves, space heaters, and curling irons are all good examples where additional caution is necessary.
  • Keep any kind of smoking materials away and placed up high, such as lighters and matches.
  • Never play with matches or lighters when your children are around. If they see adults doing this, they will think that it is okay, and possibly even fun.

 Accidents can happen at any time. But with some mindful planning, many of these can be completely avoided. If something should still happen, just know that SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka is here to help anytime. Give us a call at 662-287-7881

Outdoor Fire Safety for your Corinth/Iuka home

3/5/2018 (Permalink)

Spring is almost here and that leads to summer.Spring  and summer means grilling out and lighting up a fire to sit around once the sun goes down. Here at SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka, we like to take full advantage of the warmer weather! We also love a good cook out, so we move from cooking inside to outside on the grill. While we look forward to this time of year, it is important to keep these fire safety tips in mind.

Grilling:

  • Keep at least a three foot clearance around the entire grill. Keep kids and pets clear of this area too!
  • Move the grill away from the house and fence, and move it out from underneath any overhangs. Do not use the grill under trees or near shrubbery.
  • Regularly clean out the grease traps on your grill to prevent grease fires.
  • Never leave your grill unattended!
  • If using charcoal, make sure the coals have cooled completely before disposing of them in a metal container.
  • Keeping a fire extinguisher or a big box of baking soda in the vicinity is good idea in case a fire does breakout.

Bonfires:

  • When a burn ban is in effect, use a fire pit, preferably with a lid that can cover the fire in case of an emergency.
  • When a burn ban is not in effect, you can burn on the ground where the grass is low and green. Never burn on grass that is long or dry! Take a hose and saturate the area around the fire with water to help prevent it from spreading.
  • Drag a hose over to where you’re burning. If you have a sprayer on your hose, turn the water on and keep it on until you’re through with your fire in case of an emergency.
  • Never have a fire under trees or overhangs, near shrubbery, or close to the house.
  • Keep flammable materials away from fires.
  • Never leave a fire unattended.
  • Never have a fire on a windy day!

Here at SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka we are always here to help! If you have any questions on fire safety give our office a call at 662-287-7881!

Fire Damage: Call SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka

2/1/2018 (Permalink)

It’s always devastating when a family experiences a house fire, but SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka works hard to recover the structure and contents. We are able to remove the soot damage and even the smell of the smoke from homes. Our goal is always to make your home “Like it never even happened.” 

What To Expect: 

When we visit your home after a fire loss, we will scope the effected areas to determine the extent of the loss. We will always pretest affected surfaces to determine the type of smoke and which products will help us recover the area most effectively. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. If a fire has damaged your home, call us right away at (662) 287-7881. SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka will treat you and your family with empathy and respect, and your property with care.  

Smoke and soot facts:

  • Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
  • Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
  • The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today –(662) 287-7881

Thinking of having a bonfire? Follow these simple tips to stay safe.

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

Bonfire Tips

We are loving the fall weather here in Mississippi! Cooler weather makes it a perfect time to have a bonfire but before you do you should follow these simple tips to stay safe.

Here's some bonfire tips:

1). You should only burn dry material.

2) Always check for cables or wires overhead.

3). Always keep a water source nearby.

4). Make sure the fire is at a minimum distance of 5 times its height from any structure.

We are always here to help at SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka. If you have fire damage, give us a call.  We can make it "Like it never even happened." 

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (662)287-7781
"Like it never even happened."

Test your smoke alarms. Your life could depend on it.

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know only 79% of battery-operated smoke alarms operate effectively in home fires? Test your alarms. Your life could depend on it. 

How to Test Your Smoke Alarms

You should always check the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper method of testing your smoke detector and fire alarm. But, in general, most battery-powered and hardwired smoke detectors can be tested in the following way:

Step 1. Alert family members that you will be testing the alarm. Smoke detectors have a high-pitched alarm that may frighten small children, so you’ll want to let everyone know you plan to test the alarms to help avoid frightening anyone.

Step 2. Station a family member at the furthest point away from the alarm in your home. This can be critical to help make sure the alarm can be heard everywhere in your home. You may want to install extra detectors in areas where the alarm’s sound is low, muffled or weak.

Step 3. Press and hold the test button on the smoke detector. It can take a few seconds to begin, but a loud, ear-piercing siren should emanate from the smoke detector while the button is pressed. If the sound is weak or nonexistent, replace your batteries. If it has been more than six months since you last replaced the batteries (whether your detector is battery-powered or hardwired), change them now regardless of the test result, and test the new batteries one final time to help ensure proper functioning. You should also look at your smoke detector to make sure there’s no dust or other substance blocking its grates, which may prevent it from working even if the batteries are new.

Remember, smoke detectors have a normal life span of 10 years, according to the USFA. Even if you’ve performed regular maintenance, and your device is still functional, you should replace a smoke detector after the 10-year period or earlier, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions.

Installing smoke detectors can be a great way to help keep your family safe, but assuming they are working may lead to a dangerous situation. Taking a few minutes to check them regularly can help ensure they’re working properly.
(Information via Allstate blog website)

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (662)287-7881

Extension Cords Safety Tips

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

Roughly 3,300 home fires originate in extension cords each year, killing 50 people and injuring 270 more.  Extension cords can overheat and cause fires when used improperly, so keep these important tips in mind to protect your home and workplace.  

Here's some tips:

  • Do NOT attempt to plug extension cords into one another.
  • Make sure extension cords are properly rated for their intended use, indoor or outdoor, and meet or exceed the power needs of the appliance or device being used.
  • Do NOT over overload extension cords.
  • Inspect cords for DAMAGE before use.  Check for cracked or frayed sockets, loose or bare wires, and loose connections.
  • Do NOT run through walls, doorways, ceilings or floors.  If cord is covered, heat cannot escape, which may result in a FIRE HAZARD,
  • Buy only cords that have been approved by an independent testing laboratory.
  • Keep all outdoor extension cords clear of snow and standing water.
  • A heavy reliance on extension cords is an indication that you have too few outlets to address your needs. Have additional outlets installed where you need them.
  • Do NOT nail or staple electrical cords to walls or baseboards.
  • NEVER use three-prong plugs with outlets that only have two slots.  Never cut off the ground pin to force a fit, which could lead to electric shock.
  • Do NOT substitute extension cords for permanent wiring.  
  • Do NOT use an extension cord or a power strip with heaters or fans, which could cause cords to overheat and result in a fire.
    (Information via ESFI.org)

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (662)287-7881

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Corinth/Iuka Home

3/9/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must:

  • Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
  • Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
  • Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
  • Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
  • Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka

SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Corinth/Iuka Smoke and Soot Cleanup

3/6/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

  • Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
  • Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
  • The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Corinth/Iuka will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

  • Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

  • Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

  • Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (662) 287-7881