How to properly ventilate your home to reduce fire hazards

8/14/2024 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, we’re committed to helping you protect your home from fire risks.

Ensuring your home is well-ventilated is crucial for maintaining safety, particularly when it comes to reducing fire hazards. Proper ventilation helps manage heat and smoke, minimizing the risk of fires starting and spreading. At SERVPRO®, we understand the importance of a fire-safe home, and we’re here to share valuable tips on how to ventilate your home effectively to mitigate fire risks.

The Importance of Proper Ventilation

Ventilation plays a critical role in maintaining a safe environment. It ensures that any heat generated by appliances or activities doesn’t accumulate to dangerous levels. Moreover, it helps disperse smoke and fumes, which can be potential fire hazards. Here are some key steps to ensure your home is adequately ventilated:

1. Install and Maintain Exhaust Fans

Exhaust fans are essential in areas prone to heat and smoke, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Regularly check and clean these fans to ensure they are functioning optimally. Grease and dust buildup can reduce their efficiency and pose a fire risk. Consider installing high-efficiency exhaust fans that can handle larger volumes of air if you frequently use high-heat appliances.

2. Use Range Hoods in the Kitchen

A range hood above your stove is a vital piece of kitchen ventilation. It helps to capture and remove cooking smoke, steam, and grease particles. Ensure your range hood is properly vented to the outside and not recirculating air back into the kitchen. Clean or replace filters regularly to maintain efficiency.

3. Ventilate Attics and Crawl Spaces

Attics and crawl spaces can trap heat and allow combustible materials to reach high temperatures. Install proper vents in these areas to allow hot air to escape. Ridge vents, soffit vents, and gable vents can be highly effective. Ensure these vents are not obstructed by insulation or debris.

4. Open Windows and Doors When Safe

Whenever possible, especially when using heat-generating appliances, open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of heat buildup. However, ensure that this does not compromise your home’s security or allow outdoor pollutants inside.

5. Maintain HVAC Systems

Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system plays a significant role in home ventilation. Schedule regular maintenance checks to ensure your HVAC system is in good condition. Clean or replace air filters every 1-3 months to keep airflow unobstructed and reduce fire hazards associated with clogged filters.

6. Check Dryer Vents

Dryer vents can become clogged with lint, a highly flammable material. Clean your dryer vent regularly to ensure it is free of lint and other debris. Use rigid or semi-rigid metal ducting to reduce the risk of fire, as opposed to flexible plastic ducts.

7. Use Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans help to circulate air throughout your home, reducing the risk of heat pockets that could potentially ignite flammable materials. In the summer, set your fans to spin counterclockwise to push cool air down, and in the winter, set them to spin clockwise to distribute warm air.

Proper ventilation is a simple yet effective way to reduce fire hazards in your home. By following these tips, you can ensure a safer environment for you and your loved ones. At SERVPRO, we’re committed to helping you protect your home from fire risks. For more expert advice and assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us. Stay safe and breathe easy with a well-ventilated home.

Understanding the Risks: Mold Growth After a House Fire

4/17/2024 (Permalink)

A house fire is a devastating event that can leave behind not only physical damage but also unseen dangers lurking in its aftermath. While the immediate focus may be on extinguishing the flames and assessing the structural damage, another threat often goes unnoticed: mold growth. Mold can start to develop within 24 to 48 hours after a fire, posing significant risks and further complicating the restoration process.

Moisture and Humidity

House fires create the perfect environment for mold growth by introducing moisture and increasing humidity levels. The water used to extinguish the fire can saturate building materials and furnishings, providing moisture for mold spores to thrive. Additionally, the heat from the fire can cause pipes to burst or weaken seals, leading to water leaks that worsen the problem.

Organic Material and Soot

The soot and ash left behind by fire contain organic materials that serve as food sources for mold. As these residues settle on surfaces throughout the home, they create ideal conditions for mold spores to germinate and spread. Combined with the moisture from firefighting efforts, the presence of soot and ash can accelerate mold growth and complicate cleanup efforts.

Compromised Structural Integrity

Mold growth after a house fire can compromise the structural integrity of your home. Mold can penetrate porous materials such as drywall, wood, and insulation, causing them to weaken and deteriorate over time. This can lead to sagging ceilings, warped floors, and crumbling walls, posing safety hazards for occupants. Additionally, mold can cause damage to electrical systems and plumbing, worsening the structural issues. Addressing mold growth quickly is essential in preserving the structural integrity of your home and preventing costly repairs down the line.

Structural Damage and Property Loss

Left unchecked, mold growth can cause extensive damage to building materials, furniture, and personal belongings. Mold can penetrate porous surfaces such as drywall, wood, and upholstery, compromising their structural integrity and leading to expensive repairs or replacements. Additionally, the presence of mold can significantly reduce the value of the property.

In conclusion, mold growth after a house fire is a serious concern that should not be underestimated. By understanding the factors that contribute to mold growth and the associated risks, homeowners and restoration professionals can take proactive measures to address mold contamination effectively. Prompt cleanup and remediation efforts are essential in minimizing the structural damage and property loss associated with mold growth after a fire. By prioritizing mold prevention and mitigation strategies, we can ensure a safe and successful restoration process for all involved.

Why You Should Choose an IICRC Certified Restoration Company for Fire Damage Restoration

11/16/2023 (Permalink)

Safety is our top priority.

Dealing with the aftermath of a fire in your home or business is a stressful and overwhelming experience. While there are many restoration companies to choose from, it's essential to understand the significance of selecting an IICRC-certified restoration company for fire damage cleanup and restoration. In this blog, we'll explore why IICRC certification matters and how it can make a world of difference during this challenging time.

Expertise and Training

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a globally recognized organization that sets industry standards for cleaning, inspection, and restoration. When you choose an IICRC-certified restoration company, you're selecting professionals who have undergone rigorous training and education to meet these standards. This ensures that they have the knowledge and expertise to handle fire damage restoration effectively.

Adherence to Industry Standards

IICRC certification is not a one-time achievement. Certified professionals are required to stay current with the latest industry trends and techniques through ongoing education and training. By choosing an IICRC-certified company, you can be confident that the restoration team is up-to-date with the most effective and safest methods for fire damage cleanup and restoration.

Proper Equipment and Technology

IICRC-certified companies are equipped with state-of-the-art tools and technology. This ensures that they can provide efficient and thorough fire damage cleanup and restoration services. From water extraction and structural drying to smoke and soot removal, certified professionals have access to the right equipment to get the job done effectively.

Health and Safety

Fire damage restoration is not just about property and belongings; it's also about your health and safety. Certified professionals are well-versed in safety protocols and have the necessary protective gear to ensure that the restoration process is safe for both your family and their team.

Comprehensive Services

IICRC-certified restoration companies offer a wide range of services beyond fire damage cleanup and restoration. They can handle water damage, mold remediation, and other related issues. Choosing a certified company means you have access to a one-stop solution for all your restoration needs.

Thorough Assessment and Documentation

Certified professionals perform a comprehensive assessment of the fire damage and document the entire process. This documentation is essential for insurance claims and ensures a transparent and well-documented restoration process.

Why Choose SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough?

SERVPRO® is a trusted IICRC-certified restoration company with a long history of providing top-notch fire damage cleanup and restoration services. Here's why you should choose us:

Extensive Experience

With decades of experience, SERVPRO® has successfully restored countless properties after fire damage. Our technicians are highly trained and certified to handle complex restoration projects.

Cutting-Edge Equipment

We use the latest technology and equipment to ensure that your property is restored to its pre-fire condition efficiently and effectively.

Ongoing Training

Our team stays up-to-date with industry best practices through continuous training and education. This commitment to ongoing learning guarantees that we offer the most advanced and safe restoration methods.

Safety First

Safety is our top priority. We follow strict safety protocols and have the necessary protective gear to ensure that the restoration process is safe for everyone involved.

Comprehensive Services

SERVPRO® offers a wide range of services, including water damage restoration, mold remediation, and more. This comprehensive approach saves you time and ensures a seamless restoration process.

Selecting an IICRC-certified restoration company for fire damage cleanup and restoration is a decision that can make a significant difference in the outcome of your restoration project. The expertise, training, adherence to industry standards, equipment, and commitment to safety are just a few reasons why IICRC certification matters. When you choose a trusted name like SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough, you're choosing a partner dedicated to restoring your property and your peace of mind.

Shrewsbury, MA Celebrates Summer Safely

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough to help make it "Like it never even happened." 508-393-7898

Summer is synonymous with barbecues, parades, and firework displays; but along with all the festivities are plenty of visits to the emergency room?especially during the month of July.

Each year, around 230 people are injured badly enough to require medical treatment after fireworks related incidents, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. In addition to causing injury, fireworks are also responsible for thousands of house fires each year with millions of dollars in property damage.

There is nothing like firing up the grill during the summer months! Did you know, July is the peak month for grill fires? A backyard barbecue can become dangerous quickly if proper safety precautions aren't considered. SERVPRO wants you to have an enjoyable and safe summer.

Consider the following tips to help ensure your summer celebrations are disaster-free:

• Propane and charcoal barbecue grills should only be used outdoors.

• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

• Keep children and pets away from the grill area.

• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grill and in trays below the grill.

• Never leave your grill unattended.

• When using a charcoal grill, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear.

• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire. Children should never pick-up fireworks that may be left over as they may still be active.

• The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted by trained professionals.

If your residential or commercial property suffers from structural fire damage, call SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough to help make it "Like it never even happened." 508-393-7898

Ready, Set, Grill!

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

When fire and water take control of your life, we help you take it back.

Local SERVPRO fire remediation specialist advises Shrewsbury grill masters to prepare now for a safe, savory outdoor cooking season

Shrewsbury, MA (Grassroots Newswire) May 17, 2022— For many, the Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of the summer season. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) warns families that the onset of the summer season also marks a rise in home fires started by outdoor grilling activities. According to the NFPA, on average, 10,600 home fires are started by grills each year. July is the peak month for grill fires, followed by June, May, and August.¹

“Sixty-one percent of U.S. households own a gas grill,” says fire remediation specialist Donny McKendall  of SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough. “A total of sixty-four percent own at least one outdoor BBQ, grill, or smoker. The popularity of this outdoor cooking equipment combined with longer, warmer days creates a unique fire hazard that should be taken seriously.”

The time to take precautions is now, adds McKendall, before the outdoor cooking season is in full swing. The NFPA offers these basic tips for fire-safe grilling:²

For gas/propane grills:

• Check the gas tank for leaks before using.
• Open the lid on all gas grills before lighting the grill.

For charcoal grills:

• Use only charcoal starter fluid to start the fire but never add it or any flammable liquids to a fire that is burning.
• Cool coals completely before you dispose of them in a metal container.

For all grills:

• Place grill well away from house and deck railings. Don’t place under eaves or branches.
• Remove grease and fat buildup from grills and trays after each use.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill.
• Never leave the grill unattended when in use.

“Basic precautions set the stage for a safe and enjoyable outdoor cooking season,” says McKendall. “Life is unpredictable, but you can take steps to control the risk of house and property fires caused by outdoor cooking. Whether you are strictly a summer grilling warrior or you use your grill year-round, simple, common-sense actions can help ensure that the only smoke you smell this summer is the sweet aroma of steaks and vegetables grilling.”

SERVPRO specializes in fire and water cleanup and restoration services and repair services, helping to remediate damage for both commercial and residential customers.

¹ https://www.nfpa.org//-/media/Images/Infographics/Grilling-Infographic2020BIG.png

² https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Publications-and-media/Press-Room/News-releases/2021/NFPA-offers-safe-grilling-tips-and-recommendations-to-prevent-fires-and-injuries

###

About SERVPRO

For more than 50 years, SERVPRO has been a trusted leader in fire and water cleanup and restoration services, construction, mold mitigation, and biohazard and pathogen remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 2,000 individually owned and operated franchises spans the United States and Canada, responding to property damage emergencies large and small – from million-square-foot commercial facilities to individual homes. When disaster strikes, homeowners, business owners, and major insurance companies alike rely on SERVPRO to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Are Smoke and Soot Damage Causing Odor Problems in Your Grafton Home?

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Graton Home.

Smoke and soot can be 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 Shrewsbury/Westborough 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.

Learn more about our Fire Damage Repair and Restoration Click Here.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 508-393-7898

It’s National Burn Awareness Week

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

February 6-12, 2022 

The American Burn Association recognizes the first full week in February as National Burn Awareness Week (NBAW). Burn Awareness Week serves as, "a window of opportunity for organizations to mobilize burn, fire and life safety educators to unite in sharing a common burn awareness and prevention message in our communities," according to ameriburn.org. The theme for 2022 is, Burning Issues in the Kitchen. Cooking is the number one cause of residential fires in the United States. In fact, the American Burn Association

reports 47% of all home fires are caused by cooking.

Below are some tips to keep you and your family safe while cooking in the kitchen.

The best time to cook is when you are wide awake.

Always wipe the stove, oven, and exhaust fan after cooking to prevent grease buildup.

Turn pot or pan handles toward the back of the stove.

When heating food in the microwave, use microwave-safe cookware that allows steam to escape.

When frying, use a pan, lid, or splash guard to prevent grease splatter.

If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly. Remain in the home while cooking and use a timer to remind you to check on your food.

For more information: https://ameriburn.org/prevention/burn-awareness-week/

If you've had any amount of fire damage calling us is the first step toward restoration. SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough, Faster To Any Size Disaster. (508) 393-7898

When fire damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of fire. Whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – we’ll help you to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® PRO Tips: Fire Extinguisher Use

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

A portable fire extinguisher can be a life and property saving tool when used correctly. In order to operate a fire extinguisher, the NFPA suggests remembering the word PASS.

• Pull the pin, pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
• Aim low. Point at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
• Sweep from side-to-side.

Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with it before a fire breaks out. Encourage your family members and coworkers to do the same.

Remember, extinguishers do have their limitations! It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your home or facility.

Choosing the Appropriate Fire Extinguisher

• Class A: This is the most common extinguisher, and can be used to put out fires in ordinary combustibles such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper, and many plastics.

• Class B: Used on fires involving flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline, and oil.

• Class C: Designed for fires involving appliances, tools, or other equipment electrically energized or plugged in.

• Class D: For use on flammable metals; often specific for the type of metal in question. These are typically found only in factories working with these metals.

• Class K: Intended for use on fires that involve vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. These extinguishers are generally found in commercial kitchens, but are becoming more popular in the residential market for use in kitchens.

Our SERVPRO Pros are Fire and Water Damage Specialists

The professionals of SERVPRO®  have the training, experience and specialized equipment necessary to restore your home or business. We are committed to providing superior service while restoring your property back to pre-fire condition.

• Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

Have Questions? Call Us Today- 508-393-7898

Fall Fire Safety Tips for Your Grafton, MA Home

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

If you've had any amount of fire damage calling us is the first step toward restoration. Faster To Any Size Disaster. 508-393-7898

The fall season brings cooler temperatures, beautiful colors, and an abundance of outdoor activities. Plan ahead this season to help ensure it is safe from potential fire hazards.

According to the National Fire Protection Agency, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. Here are some helpful hints when cooking your fall family dinners.

• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while the food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire, like oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, or hand towels, away from the stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire, consider the following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe.

Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the flames.

• Call 911 or the local emergency number after you get out safely.
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the oven door closed.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear path out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.

If you are doing any outdoor cooking around a fire pit, consider the following to keep it a fun, but safe time for all:

• Check the wind conditions prior to starting the fire. Wind can make it hard to light the fire or blow embers around to surrounding brush or structures.
• Always have a fire extinguisher or water source nearby, like a water hose or water bucket.
• Never leave the fire unattended.
• Keep all children and pets at least three feet from the fire.

Does Your Family Have a Fire Escape Plan?

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

If you've had any amount of fire damage calling us is the first step toward restoration.r, Faster To Any Size Disaster. 508-393-7898

Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds.

To make the most of what little time you have, be proactive and establish a fire escape plan. Having a plan in place and practicing that plan will ensure everyone knows where to go when disaster strikes.

As a family, walk through your home and look at all possible exits, doors and windows. Create a map of your home, so everyone can visually see two ways out of every room, a primary and secondary evacuation route.

As you develop your family escape plan, consider the following steps, provided by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

• Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside every sleeping area on every level of the home.
• Walk through your plans with the family, making sure everyone can access the exits easily.
• Set an outside meeting point for the family once they've escaped.
• Once you're out, stay out and wait for help to arrive, do not go back into the burning structure.

Once you have a plan in place make sure all your fire safety supplies are in place and up to date. Smoke detectors need to replaced every 10 years, also replace the batteries in your smoke detectors every six months. Fire extinguishers need to be replaced every 12 years. Make sure you have fire extinguishers in the necessary areas of your home, the kitchen, utility rooms, garage, etc.

If your home has two floors, an escape ladder is a necessity for the safety of your family. Practice setting up the ladder from a first floor window, so everyone knows how to do it safely. Escape ladders can be placed near the windows on the second floor, providing additional escape options. You don't want to be searching for it during a fire.

Take all the necessary steps to prepare your family for a potential fire. Minutes of preparation now can save a life when it matters most.

If you have questions or concerns about smoke alarms or how to make a home escape plan, please contact your local Fire Department, or visit nfpa.org/public-education or  cpsc.gov/safety-education for more information.

Source: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Teaching-tools/Community-tool-kits/Fire-Safety-for-Multigenerational-Families-Living-Together

If you've had any amount of fire damage calling us is the first step toward restoration. SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough, Faster To Any Size Disaster. 508-393-7898

How Can I Prevent BBQ Fires & Burn Injuries? Ask a SERVPRO Pro

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – (508) 393-7898

In our July installment of “Ask a SERVPRO Pro” we speak with, Donny McKendall, President and Owner of SERVPRO of Worcester &  SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough. Donny offered safety tips to help outdoor chefs prevent fires & burn injuries.

Summer is almost here! That means people are spending more time outdoors entertaining and cooking. Local fire and disaster remediation specialist Donny McKendall of SERVPRO® of Worcester, SERVPRO Of Shrewsbury/Westborough knows that the number of grill fires will increase, peaking in July. “Charcoal and gas grills, barbeques and the like are involved in an average of more than 5,000 structure fires each year and almost 5,000 additional outdoor fires,” said McKendall. Beyond that, McKendall adds, grilling accidents result in 19,700 trips to the hospital annually. Thermal burns account for 9,500 of those visits, and children under the age of five account for an average of 2,000, or 39 percent, of those burns.¹ McKendall knows that families can take steps to protect their home from damage and their family from injuries and still enjoy home-grilled, summer meals.

Before you grill: ¹

• READY: Clean grill racks and grease trays. For gas grills, check the gas tank hose for leaks at the beginning of the season.
• SET: Choose a safe, firm, level spot for the grill away from coolers, running children and pets, and mingling guests. Grill outside, never in a garage or under the awning on a deck, the eaves of your home, or low-hanging branches.
• GO: Prepare the grill for cooking carefully. For charcoal grills, use a charcoal chimney with newspaper, a charcoal starter fluid, or an electric charcoal starter plugged into an outdoor-rated extension cord. For gas grills, open the lid before turning the grill on. If you smell gas after the grill is lit, do not try to move the grill. Get away from the grill and call the fire department.

While you grill: ²

• SAFE ZONE: Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the hot grill, both while you are cooking and after you serve the food. Grill surfaces can remain hot for an hour or more.
• SAFE TOOLS: Use long-handled grill utensils in good condition; avoid loose, flowing clothing; and wear flame-retardant mitts to adjust vents to help prevent burns.
• SAFE COOKING: Keep the fire under control. Manage flareups by adjusting grill height, using grill controls, or spreading out the coal bed. Keep baking soda within reach to control grease fires. Watch for blowing embers and have a fire extinguisher, a garden hose, or a bucket of sand handy to extinguish spark-triggered fires. Never attempt to move a hot grill.

“Home fires can be devastating, both financially and emotionally, because smoke and water damage often amplify the destruction to both the structure and its contents,” says McKendalll “While our SERVPRO-trained professionals are here to help you recover "Like it never even happened," if you do experience a structure fire, we believe that prevention is better than a cure. Fires and burn injuries caused by grills are not strictly a summer phenomenon. Nearly half of home grillers use their grill year-round, so it’s important to keep these safety guidelines in mind all year long.”

About June’s Featured “ SERVPRO Pro”

Donny McKendall, President
SERVPRO of Worcester & SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough

Drawing on generations of restoration knowledge and a commitment to excellence Donny has led the SERVPRO of Worcester team to new heights in capacity and capabilities.

A once young, rudimentary restoration service has developed into one of Central Massachusetts most reliable and capable full-service restoration companies.

Holding himself to the same high standards he sets for his team, Donny holds the following IICRC certifications: Applied Microbial Remediation Technician, Applied Structural Drying Technician, Commercial Drying Specialist, Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician, and Water Damage Restoration Technician.

About SERVPRO^®  of Shrewsbury/Westborough

The highly trained and certified professionals of SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough are experienced in cleaning and restoring a fire, mold or water-damaged building and its contents, including wall, ceiling and floor surfaces; furniture; fabric; fixtures and more. They also offer cleaning and restoration of special items, such as: HVAC duct systems; building exteriors; electronic equipment, including computers; and documents that have sustained water damage.

Additionally, SERVPRO^® Shrewsbury/Westborough is highly trained and experienced in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination. Adhering to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry standards (CDC, RIA, IICRC) and using EPA approved cleaning products you can trust the professionals at SERVPRO® to deliver the highest standard of clean.

About SERVPRO^®

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Franchise System is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO's professional services network of more than 1,800 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss situations. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners. 

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (508) 393-7898

GoFundMe Created to Help Family Rebuild After Devastating Fire.

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

WORCESTER,MA — On the evening of February 13th a raging  five-alarm fire tore through a pair of three-decker apartment buildings on Jaques Avenue. Three family members perished and a total of 13 residents were displaced from the fire.

The Adams Family has suffered devastating loss- we offer our deepest condolences.

Woodrow Adams Jr. has  started a GoFundMe page to help the family rebuild.

In the wake of this tragedy, we encourage our community to come together in support of those suffering such unimaginable loss. We ask, please help if you can.

Adams Family Fire Relief Fund

https://www.gofundme.com/f/adams-family-fire-relief

For Additional Information:

Worcester Telegram & Gazette

• Jaques Avenue fire victims identified as Worcester family mourns loss of 3 family members

MassLive

·    ‘He always taught me to be strong’: Worcester shares tears, hope in celebrating lives of 3 victims who died in Jaques Avenue fire·    After fatal Worcester fire, GoFundMe launched to help Adams family rebuild

Multigenerational Housing Fire Safety- Making Your Home Safe for the Whole Family.

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

Multigenerational housing is on the rise- the number of Americans living under the same roof with at least three generations has doubled since 1980.

It’s not unusual for three or more generations to live in the same household. According to estimates, between 50 and 62 million Americans live in a multigenerational home.

This kind of living arrangement provides a number of economic, family, and lifestyle benefits but  may also increase concerns about fire safety.

Home is where people are at greatest risk of fire.
According to the nonprofit National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) data, on average, seven people die in home fires each day. U.S. fire departments respond to roughly 360,000 fires each year. Home fires kill roughly 2,500 people per year.

NFPA and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend you take these simple steps to increase your safety at home.

• Make sure your home has smoke alarms. You need a smoke alarm on every level, inside each sleeping room, and outside each separate sleeping area. Interconnect the alarms so when one sounds, they all sound.
• Test your alarms at least once a month. Press each test button to make sure it is working.
• Plan your home escape. Share the plan with everyone in the family and guests.
• Smoke alarms may not wake up children. Older adults may not hear the smoke alarm. Assign someone to help children, older adults and people with disabilities escape.
• Make sure your home has bright lighting in stairways to prevent falls.
• Remove clutter to prevent trips and falls and allow for a quick escape.
• Install handrails along the full length of both sides of the stairs.
• The plan should include two ways out of every room and an outside family meeting place.
• If there is a fire, get outside quickly and stay outside. Then call 9-1-1.
• If you can’t get outside, call 9-1-1. Let the fire department know you can’t get outside. Wave a light-colored cloth or a flashlight form the window.
• If there is smoke, use your second way out. If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke. 

Time and time again we have witnessed the life-saving impact of working smoke alarms and the effectiveness of making a plan to escape in case there is a fire.

If you have questions or concerns about smoke alarms or how to make a home escape plan, please contact your local Fire Department, or visit nfpa.org/public-education or  cpsc.gov/safety-education for more information.

Source: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Teaching-tools/Community-tool-kits/Fire-Safety-for-Multigenerational-Families-Living-Together

Reminder: Have Heating Equipment Cleaned & Inspected

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

As temperatures drop and home heating systems kick into gear, remember to get your home heating systems inspected and cleaned as soon as possible.  That’s a key message from the nonprofit National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), who are teaming up to reduce the risk of home heating fires this December, January and February, when half of all U.S. home heating fires occur.

According to NFPA, home heating equipment is the second leading cause of U.S. homes fires; failure to clean heating equipment is the most common reason for these fires.

Through their joint winter fire safety campaign, “Put a Freeze on Winter Fires,” NFPA and USFA urge everyone to get their home heating systems inspected and cleaned annually by a trained professional, preferably before the start of the season. This will ensure that your home heating system is working properly, and can significantly reduce your risk to associated fires. If you have a chimney, make sure it’s also inspected and cleaned, if necessary, by a trained professional. Creosote - a sticky, oily, combustible substance created when wood does not burn completely - rises into the chimney as a liquid and deposits on the chimney walls, causing one-quarter of all home heating  fires.

Winter fires are preventable! For more heating safety advice from NFPA and USFA’s “Put a Freeze on Winter” campaign, visit www.nfpa.org/winter.

If you've had any amount of fire damage calling us is the first step toward restoration. SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough, Faster To Any Size Disaster. (508) 393-7898

When fire damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best: Your trusted, local SERVPRO® franchise professionals.

Winter Fires are Preventable: Fireplace Safety

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

While they often conjure up images of warmth and comfort, fireplaces (with chimneys, which also support wood stoves) also represent a significant source of home heating fires. Fireplaces or chimneys are involved in one out of three home heating fires. Creosote - a sticky, oily, combustible substance created when wood does not burn completely - rises into the chimney as a liquid and deposits on the chimney walls, and plays a role in 19 percent of all home heating fires each year.

The nonprofit National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) are teaming up to reduce the risk of these and other home heating fires this December, January and February, when half of all U.S. home heating fires occur.  As part of their joint fire safety campaign, “Put a Freeze on Winter Fires,” both organizations say that chimneys should be inspected and cleaned annually by a qualified professional.

Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from a fireplace, wood stove, or any other heating equipment, and create a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires. Also, make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room, and never leave a fireplace fire unattended, particularly when children are present. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container, and kept at a safe distance from your home.

Winter fires are preventable! For more heating fire safety advice from NFPA and USFA’s “Put a Freeze on Winter” campaign, visit www.nfpa.org/winter.

If you've had any amount of fire damage calling us is the first step toward restoration. 
When fire damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best: Your trusted, local SERVPRO® franchise professionals.

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough, Faster To Any Size Disaster. (508) 393-7898

Celebrate Safely This Holiday Season

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough wish you a safe and happy holiday season.

Pretty lights, candles, and decorations are just a few of the items bringing charm and cheer to the holiday season—however, if they are not used carefully your holidays may go from festive to frightening.

The American Red Cross offers the following safety tips to help greatly reduce the fire risk in your home or business this holiday season.

• Place Christmas trees, candles, and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents, and candles.

• Make sure light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed.

• Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or before going to bed.

• Use only sturdy tree stands designed to not tip over. Keep curious pets and children away from Christmas trees.

• Keep anything that can catch on fire—like pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from your stove top.

• Designate one person to walk around your property to ensure all candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished after guests leave.

Holiday Reminder from The American Red Cross:

“IF YOU WILL BE TRAVELING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, LEAVE THE HEAT ON IN YOUR HOME, SET TO A TEMPERATURE NO LO LOWER THAN 55° F.”

The professionals at SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough wish you a safe and happy holiday season.

Source: redcross.org

The Behavior of Smoke

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior 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.

The professionals of SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, the professionals of SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and its contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows your local SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough professionals to focus on saving your precious items.

Your local SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough professionals know smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following points are additional facts you may not know about smoke.

• 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.

Types of Smoke

• Wet Smoke. (Plastic and Rubber) Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, and 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.

• Fuel Oil Soot. (Furnace puff backs) While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners,

SERVPRO® franchise professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.

• Other Types. (Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue) Special loss situations require special care.

The professionals of SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough are trained to handle even the toughest of losses. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Safety First Before the Feast

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Your friends at SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving and holiday season.

Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your happy holiday could quickly become hazardous in a blink of an eye. According to the NFPA, cooking is the main cause of home fires and injuries, with the Thanksgiving holiday being the peak day for cooking related fire emergencies. Review the following safety tips to help ensure you can enjoy a safe holiday.

• Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food. If someone must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, they should turn off the stove.

• Check food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while kitchen equipment is in use. Use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on.

• Keep small children away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove and oven.

• Keep anything flammable like pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels away from the stove, oven, or other appliances in the kitchen that generates heat.

• Do not wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.

• Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease build-up.

• Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen year round. Contact the local fire department for training on the proper use of fire extinguishers if you are unsure.

• Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all kitchen appliances like stoves, ovens, and toasters are turned off.

• Install a smoke alarm near the kitchen, on each level of the home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside of bedrooms. Use the test button to check it is working properly every month. Replace the batteries at least once a year.

Your friends at SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving and holiday season.

Source: National Fire Protection Association

PREPAREDNESS FOR PETS

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

Be sure to take four-legged friends into consideration when planning for emergencies.

Have you accounted for Fido or Lucy when emergency planning?

Pets are just as important as any family member to most people, so why would you not make them a part of your preparedness planning? There are several things you can do to make sure they stay safe as well during an emergency.

Pet Emergency Kit

Ready.gov/animals lists the below items as essential to building your Pet Emergency Kit.

Food.

At least a three day supply in an airtight, waterproof container.

Water.

At least three days of water specifically for your pets.

Medicines and medical records.

Important documents. Registration information, adoption papers and vaccination documents. Talk to your veterinarian about microchipping and enrolling your pet in a recovery database.

First aid kit. Cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Including a pet first aid reference book is a good idea too.

Collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag and a leash.

Crate or pet carrier.

Have a sturdy, safe crate or carrier in case you need to evacuate. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down.

Sanitation.

Pet litter and litter box if appropriate, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach.

A picture of you and your pet together.

If you become separated, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you. Add species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics.

Familiar items.

Familiar items such as treats, toys and bedding can help reduce stress for your pet.

Evacuations

While practicing fire escape or evacuation plans, be sure to include pets. If an evacuation happens, don’t leave pets behind as they can be lost or injured.

Identification

Microchipping pets is a great way to locate them. Most veterinary clinics and shelters have scanners that will read the microchip information to help find a pet’s owners.

Be sure to take four-legged friends into consideration when planning for emergencies. Visit ready.gov/ animals for further tips and safety precautions to think about for you or your insured’s families’ pets, or your tenants’ pets’ during a disaster.

SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough wishes you a safe and happy fall season.

Source: National Fire Protection Association

Keep Fall Fire Free

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

The fall season brings cooler temperatures, beautiful colors, and an abundance of outdoor activities. Plan ahead this season to help ensure it is safe and fire-free.

• Fall decorations, like dried flowers and cornstalks, are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters.

• Keep emergency exits clear of decorations no nothing blocks escape routes.

• Teach children to stay away from open flames. Be sure they know how to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire.

• Remember safety first when choosing a Halloween costume. Consider avoiding billowing fabric.

• It is safest to use a flashlight or battery-operated candle in a jack-o-lantern. Use extreme caution if using a real candle.

Facts and information provided by the National Fire Protection Association, nfpa.org.

The professionals at SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough wish you a safe and happy fall season.

About SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO® is so important.

Just visit SERVPROshrewsburywestborough.com on your mobile phone or call 508-393-7898 to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster.

We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best: Your trusted, local SERVPRO® franchise professional.

SERVPRO Reminds You: "SERV"e Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Week is October 4-10, 2020. The 2020 theme is, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!”

October is Fire Prevention Month and an excellent time to examine the emergency preparedness plans for your home and business, including your fire escape plan. Do you have a fire escape plan? Have you changed your smoke alarm batteries within the last year? Are you prepared for whatever happens?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets aside a designated week each October to focus on fire prevention. Fire Prevention Week is October 4-10, 2020. The 2020 theme is, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” This topic works to educate everyone about the simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves, and those around them, safe in the kitchen.

Did you know? Cooking is the number one cause of home fires and home fire injuries, according to NFPA. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of fires in the kitchen. NFPA notes that once a fire alarm goes off “you could have less than two minutes to get out safely,” yet only 8 percent of people surveyed said getting out was the first thought they had after hearing a fire alarm go off. Creating, implementing, and practicing a fire escape plan for your home or business may be the difference between safety and tragedy. Make a plan today!

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration, SERVPRO® stands on over 50 years of experience and expertise to help ensure you stay safe, informed, and ready for any disaster that comes your way.

The time to prepare is now. Call your local SERVPRO® of Shrewsbury/Westborough professionals to make sure your home and business are "Ready for whatever happens."

Learn more:

Fire Prevention Week is October. 4 – 10 https://www.nfpa.org/fpw

Kitchen Cautions from SERVPRO

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. It’s important to be alert to prevent holiday cooking fires.

According to the National Fire Protection Agency, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. It’s important to be alert to prevent holiday cooking fires.

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

If you have a cooking fire, consider the following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe.

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

SERVPRO®  of Shrewsbury/Westborough wishes you a safe and happy fall season.

Source: National Fire Protection Association

Smoke Alarms Save Lives!

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

In homes, smoke alarms should be in every bedroom and on every level, including the basement. In office and commercial environments, check your state requirements or contact your local Fire Marshall to help ensure all codes are met.

Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years. Other alarms need batteries replaced every year and the unit replaced every ten years. If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately. Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm. Almost half of fires where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries (NFPA).

In larger commercial facilities, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits such as not needing to be tested as often and activating throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).

If you need help installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.

Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills. For more information on Emergency Preparedness, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough Here to Help  (508) 393-7898

When it Comes to Portable Fire Extinguishers Remember “PASS”

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Portable fire extinguishers can be life and property saving tools when used correctly. In order to operate an extinguisher, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests remembering the word PASS:

Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism. There’s usually a thin plastic tamper seal holding this pin in place, and it easily breaks when you pull out the pin.

Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire. You must direct the extinguishing media towards the material that is actually burning so it can extinguish the flame

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly. An extra word of caution; if you are using a CO2 extinguisher, avoid touching the horn-shaped discharge nozzle, as it can cause frostbite

Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side across the base of the fire as you approach, to make sure the extinguishing media completely covers the burning material and puts out the fire.

Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with them before a fire breaks out. Remember, extinguishers do have limitations. It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your facility. To find more information on choosing the appropriate class of extinguisher, please visit the NFPA website at nfpa.org.

Additional Portable Fire Extinguisher Training Resources:

• https://www.oshatraining.com/portable-fire-extinguisher-training.php
• https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Staying-safe/Safety-equipment/Fire-extinguishers
• https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/extinguishers.html

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough, Faster To Any Size Disaster. (508) 393-7898 
Calling us is the first step toward restoration after any amount of fire damage affects your home.

EMERGENCY FIRE DAMAGE TIPS

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

These emergency tips will assist you in taking proper action until your local SERVPRO® franchise professionals arrive. Follow these DOs and DON’Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration.

DO:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into carpet and avoid tracking.
• Keep your hands clean. Soot on your hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• If electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from metal kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances.
• If heat is off during winter months, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Remove soot particles from plants with a damp cloth.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave it off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON’T:

• Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your local SERVPRO franchise professional.
• Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet, rugs, or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO franchise professional.
• Don’t attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don’t consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best: Your trusted, local SERVPRO® franchise professional.

Learn to Prevent Fires in Your Westborough Home

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

There is a reason the call it the “unexpected”, you don’t know when disaster will strike buy you can be prepared. Check out these tips we gathered from ready.gov

When it comes to fire know that In just two minutes a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes a residence can be engulfed in flames. The good news is that preparation can make a world of difference and home fires are preventable!

The following are simple steps that each of us can take to prevent a tragedy.

Cooking

• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time turn off the stove.
• Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.
• Keep children away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of three feet around the stove.
• Position barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

Smoking

• Smoke outside and completely stub-out butts in an ashtray or a can filled with sand.
• Soak cigarette butts and ashes in water before throwing them away. Never toss hot cigarette butts or ashes in the trash can.
• Never smoke in a home where oxygen is used, even if it is turned off. Oxygen can be explosive and makes fire burn hotter and faster.
• Be alert – don’t smoke in bed! If you are sleepy, have been drinking or have taken medicine that makes you drowsy, put your cigarette out first.

Electrical and Appliance Safety

• Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
• If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
• Immediately shut off, then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to the touch and lights that flicker.

Portable Space Heaters

• Keep combustible objects at least three feet away from portable heating devices.
• Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• Check to make the portable heater has a thermostat control mechanism and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over.
• Only use crystal clear K-1 kerosene in kerosene heaters. Never overfill it. Use the heater in a well-ventilated room.

Fireplaces and Woodstoves

• Inspect and clean woodstove pipes and chimneys annually and check monthly for damage or obstructions.
• Use a fireplace screen heavy enough to stop rolling logs and big enough to cover the entire opening of the fireplace to catch flying sparks.
• Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the house or going to bed.

Children

• Take the mystery out of fire play by teaching children that fire is a tool, not a toy.
• Store matches and lighters out of children's reach and sight, preferably in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children unattended near operating stoves or burning candles, even for a short time.

More Prevention Tips

• Never use a stove range or oven to heat your home.
• Keep combustible and flammable liquids away from heat sources.
• Portable generators should NEVER be used indoors and should only be refueled outdoors or in well ventilated areas.

Associated Content

• U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) (Link)
• American Red Cross (Link)
• Sparky the Fire Dog (Link)

Do You Know What to Do If There’s a Fire in Your Shrewsbury Home?

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

In the event of a home fire, remember that every second counts. Being prepared and knowing what to do when the unexpected happens gives you and your family the valuable  advantage of time.

The Red Cross Suggests These 7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire

1. Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year. Purchase smoke alarms here.        

2. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one. 

3. Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.

4. Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.

5. Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell "Fire" to alert everyone that they must get out.

6. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
7. Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire. 

What to Do After a Home Fire

If you do have a home fire, please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Locally Owned and Operated
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Highly Trained Fire Restoration Technicians

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough, Faster To Any Size Disaster. 508-393-7898. Calling us is the first step toward restoration after any amount of fire damage affects your home.

Westborough Residents Still Have Plenty of Grilling Season Left- Be Safe!

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

There is still plenty of grilling weather left, here are some tips for safe outdoor cooking

There is still plenty of grilling season left. Outdoor cooking and socially-distanced picnic gatherings cab be a welcome change for families eager to get out and enjoy the warm weather.

SERVPRO would like to remind Westborough residents and those in surrounding areas about the  “grilling fire facts" from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

* Gas grills, hibachis, and barbeques are involved in an average of 8,900 home fires each year, including 3,900 structure fires and 4,900 outdoor fires. Charcoal or other solid-fueled grills contribute to another 1,300 home fires per year.
* An average of 19,700 patients each year visit emergency rooms because of injuries involving grills. Nearly half (9,500 or 48%) of the injuries are thermal burns from fire (about 4,300) and from contact with hot objects (about 5,200). Children under five account for an average of 2,000 of those contact-type burns.
* July is the peak month for grill fires (18%), including both structure, outdoor or unclassified fires, followed by June (15%), May (13%) and August (12%).

We would like to share the following advice from the NFPA2 with Worcester-area homeowners to help ensure that the only smoke coming from their outdoor feast is from their grill, and not from a property fire.

All Grills

* Use your propane or charcoal grill outdoors only. Place your grill away from your home or deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
* Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area, and never leave your grill unattended.
* Keep your grill clean. Remove grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill. Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

Propane Grills

* Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year.
* If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.
* If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least five minutes before re-lighting it.

Charcoal Grills

* A charcoal chimney starter uses newspaper as a fuel to start the charcoal. If you use a starter fluid instead, use only charcoal starter fluid. If you choose an electric charcoal starter, make sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
* Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
* When you are finished grilling, let the coals cool completely before transferring them to a metal container for disposal.

While we hope that these guidelines will help Westborough-area homeowners have a safe, fire-free grilling season, accidents can happen. If you do experience a structure fire, our SERVPRO-trained professionals can help get you on the road to normal, managing clean-up efforts and helping with insurance and recovery. When disaster strikes, our goal, always, is to make it seem "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO specializes in fire and water cleanup and restoration services and repair services, helping to remediate damage for both commercial and residential customers.

1 https://www.nfpa.org/grilling
2 https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/Grilling_safety_Tips.pdf

Working Smoke Alarms Are a Must for Keeping Your Family Safe.

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

As we all know, the most valuable thing in our homes are the people that live there. Property and possessions can be fixed or replaced. What’s most important is your safety and the safety of those you care about.

About three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or working smoke alarms. Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan providing early warning reducing your risk of dying in a fire. The National Fire Protection Association recommends you:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas on the ceiling or high on the wall
• Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen, at least 10 feet from the stove, to reduce false alarms
• Use special alarms with strobe lights and bed shakers for people who are hard of hearing or deaf
• Test smoke alarms monthly
• Replace batteries annually, and change the batteries in your carbon monoxide detectorat the same time
• Replace smoke alarms that are 10 or more years old

What Are Your Next Steps after A House Fire

At SERVPRO of Shrewsbury we understand how traumatic a home fire can be. Rest assure our professionally trained technicians and staff will treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care. If you suffer a fire damage event, please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Locally Owned and Operated
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Highly Trained Fire Restoration Technicians

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough, Faster To Any Size Disaster. 508-393-7898. Calling us is the first step toward restoration after any amount of fire damage affects your home.

Tips for Enjoying Backyard Recreational Fires Responsibly

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

As the weather continues to warm and  we continue to spend more time at home. We would like to take this opportunity to remind our friends and neighbors to be responsible with backyard recreational fires.

Summer is the time when more homeowners look to enjoy fire pits and outdoor fireplaces for warmth, recreation and cooking. 

Increase your enjoyment of outdoor fires by knowing you’re doing all you can to burn cleanly, safely, and responsibly for your family, neighbors and community. 

Enjoy Your Fire Pit Responsibly

If you choose to burn wood, reduce particle pollution with these steps:

• Only burn seasoned, dry wood, which burns hotter and cleaner.  
• Use a moisture meter to check firewood; moisture content is best at about 20 percent.
• Cover stacked wood, but allow good air flow so it can dry. 
• Never burn wood during air quality alert days, when air pollution is already higher.
• Never burn green wood, construction waste, plastic, garbage, or yard waste. They create more smoke and can be toxic.
• Take extra care if you live in a region where brush fires are of concern.
  

Check Your Local Laws

• Some local governments have adopted ordinances to restrict backyard recreational fires.
  For more information, check with local authorities.

For more information and source information: https://www.epa.gov/burnwise/backyard-recreational-fires

April is Wildland Urban Interface Awareness Month

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

April is the traditional start of the wildfire season. This year, the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) wants to raise awareness about what wildland urban interface (WUI) fires are and how fire departments can help communities become safer. We would like to share information.

What is What is the WUI?

The wildland urban interface is an area where human-made structures and infrastructure (e.g., cell towers, schools, water supply facilities, etc.) are in or adjacent to areas prone to wildfire.

You may believe that you don’t have a WUI problem, and that WUI fires only occur in western states, but here are the facts:

• More than 46 million residences in 70,000 communitiesin the United States are at risk for WUI fires.
• The WUI area continues to grow by approximately two million acresper year.

Fire-Adapted Communities Make the Difference.

Many communities have survived a wildfire event because of their efforts to prepare in advance, which also makes it safer for responding fire departments.

Here are some things you can do to help your community be prepared:

• Rake and remove pine needles and dry leaves within a minimum of 3 to 5 feet of a home’s foundation, keeping a 30-foot distance around the home. Dispose of collected debris in an appropriate manner.
• Clean pine needles from roof and gutters.
• Get out a measuring tape and see how close wood piles are located to the home. If closer than 30 feet, inform homeowners they need to be relocated and moved at least 30 feet away from structures.
• Sweep porches and decks to clear them of leaves and pine needles. Rake under decks, porches, and around sheds and play structures.
• Mow grasses to a height of four inches or less.
• Remove items stored under decks and porches and relocate them to a shed or a storage locker. Gasoline cans and portable propane tanks should never be stored indoors. Locate them away from the home.

To learn more about  information about what communities need to know before, during and after a WUI fire please visit: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/wui/wui_awareness_month.html

Southborough Smoke and Soot Cleanup

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Southborough Home.

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 [[Franchise Name]] 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 – 508-393-7898

Soot Cleanup After a Fire in Shrewsbury

8/21/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides immediate and thorough fire damage restoration services

Smoke from a burning house is highly corrosive and can damage anything given enough time. Apart from burnt wood, smoke from a house fire can come from other items such as leathers, plastics, and even chemicals. The resultant air can be extremely toxic. Time is a huge factor here: The sooner you commence the restoration process, the more items you can be able to save. 

Within a few hours of loss notification, you can expect SERVPRO at your Shrewsbury home to begin fire damage mitigation. Our professionals are uniformed, adequately equipped, trained, and certified by the IICRC to provide industry standard services. As soon as we arrive, we begin by walking you through the restoration process, step-by-step, highlighting what to expect and the projected results.

Our top priority is restoring damaged areas and contents to preloss condition, ensuring everything looks “Like it never even happened.” Most smoke or fire damage situations are characterized by floors, woodwork, ceilings, walls, and carpeting that need a thorough cleanup. After pretesting to determine the extent of the damage, our experienced professionals use specific cleaning products and equipment to salvage different types of surfaces in the structure.

In some cases, we may be able to dislodge lighter soot deposits on certain surfaces and save you the additional cost of repainting or refinishing. If needed, SERVPRO technicians can clean to prepare for painting. The cleanup process deodorizes and allows the new paint to adhere well to the surface.

Any restorable contents in the fire damage site are professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, area rugs, upholstery, and draperies. Our technicians begin by carefully testing every fabric in the structure to determine the most appropriate cleaning method. We utilize both dry and wet cleaning services to restore your contents to normal condition. This includes bedding, clothing, kitchen items, wood furniture, art, electronics, and much more. If requested, we can also provide an inventory of all items “to be claimed.”

Nobody wants to be caught on the wrong side of a fire disaster. However, if it happens to you, SERVPRO of Shrewsbury / Westborough can arrive quickly to deal with the fire damage. Call us anytime at (508)757-7885.

Visit https://shrewsburyma.gov/ for more information about Shrewsbury, MA.

Homeowner in Grafton? Here Is What You Should Avoid When Responding To A House Fire

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

Certified SERVPRO Technicians Can Restore Your Fire Damaged Property in Grafton and surrounding towns!

It is completely understandable that when faced with the devastation of a fire, you want to help with the clean-up. Because of the nature of fire damage, the steps you take as a homeowner may make the restoration process harder and can cause permanent damage to your structure or possessions. When you have SERVPRO standing with you to move past the effects of the fire, we can advise on the precautions you must observe to ensure the safety of you and your family and to avoid making matters worse in this emergency situation. Our staff will guide you through the steps necessary to restore your home to preloss condition, outlining the master plan for your particular situation. 
 
You can take some simple steps to aid the restoration of fire damage in Grafton. Draping furniture and creating pathways on carpeting with clean towels or sheets will limit the spread of soot. Keep movement in the house to a minimum to stop residues of the fire from invading non-affected areas. Replace the filters in HVAC systems and cover vents with loosely woven fabric like cheesecloth. Coat chrome fixtures in the kitchen and bath with lubricant and clean any house plants with a water moistened rag. If you lost electricity in the fire, remove items from freezers and refrigerators. Keep hands and footwear clean as you move through the home so as not to deposit more smoke residue throughout. 
 
Avoid the temptation to wash walls or clean flooring or furniture without consulting SERVPRO professionals first. We are certified in properly removing the results of a fire, using proven techniques that are effective and designed to limit the spread of the soot and dirt. Do not attempt to operate appliances or electronics until our staff has cleaned and inspected them. The debris after a fire can cause serious electrical issues including shock and further fires. Consult with any vendor you bring clothing to for cleaning, ensuring they are experienced in dry or wet cleaning of fabrics damaged by fire to avoid residual odors. Canned and boxed food, as well as personal care items, may be unsafe to consume if exposed to heat, smoke and water so do not consume or use. 
 
The professionals at SERVPRO of Shrewsbury / Westborough will keep you and your family safe as they team with you to restore your home and possessions damaged by fire. Dispatchers await around the clock at (508)757-7885 to schedule a response to your fire damage.

Stored Grilling Equipment Can be Damaging to Sheds and Garages in Shrewsbury

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Tackles Fire Damage in Your Home, Business or Any Additional Buildings

It does not take much for a fire to start. While it is a tragedy when a home catches on fire, garages and sheds can also have fires, too. Flammable liquids like gasoline and lighter fluid, cardboard boxes full of stored items, and odds and ends often found in these locations can easily combine with hot coals from a grill that has been put away too soon. Live coals can fall out when they burn small enough to escape through ventilation holes but are still large enough to ignite whatever materials they come into contact. 
 
Westborough residents who enjoy grilling their food outside can prevent fire damage from destroying their storage areas. Because live coals can look like ash, it is difficult to make sure that the grill is ready to be put back in its place. It is a better practice to wait until after eating to return the grill or to keep it outside. Fire-resistant grill covers are available that can protect grills from the elements and prevent rust while also preventing unwanted fires from igniting. 
 
If you have fire damage from a grill or other similar catastrophe in your shed or garage, SERVPRO is ready to repair the damage and restore your property quickly. Garages, particularly attached ones, typically have a structure that is similar to the rest of the home. We remove all the burned building materials after we have packed up any belongings that may get in the way of our work. Because of the location of these items, we take them to our facility so they need not clutter up your home's interior while we work. 
 
It is easy to replace damaged drywall, and if the fire happened in a garage, the typical floor is concrete, making cleaning reasonably easy to do. Floors that are industrial grade plastic or composite materials may require specialized repairs. If the flames reached into and damaged the roof, SERVPRO professionals cover the entire structure with a protective tarp before work begins. Fires cause enough damage, and we want to make sure that while we work to restore everything that there is no other damage. 
 
Fires in sheds can result in a total loss. Some sheds are constructed of thin metal panels or sheets, or are only of the outer wooden paneling, with a metal or wood beam support system to which the outer panels are then attached. The floor, if not of concrete, is often made of the same material as the rest of the shed. Fires often destroy non-concrete floors. As we sort through the remains of the fire, we salvage everything that we can. The rest we list on an inventory sheet so you can present it to the insurance agent. We provide inventory sheets regardless of the location of a fire. 
 
Grills, being made of metal, are often easily restored to working condition again. Other items may not be so lucky. Soot that has settled on different items should be removed as soon as possible. Tools and machinery are usually damaged if contaminants can work their way into working parts, but cleaning soon after a fire can remove grime, preventing problems and preserving functionality. 
 
Get back to grilling and relaxing with friends on your free time. When you have a disaster, call SERVPRO of Shrewsbury / Westborough at (508) 757-7885, anytime, including weekends and all holidays. We are always ready!

Did You Know UV Technology Can Be Used to Fix Fire Damage in Your Northborough Home?

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Even the worst of fire damage can be cleaned and fixed! Call SERVPRO right after the damage to make sure your home can be restored!

SERVPRO Technicians Have Many Methods at Their Disposal When It Comes To Smoke Damage Remediation 

When a fire breaks out in a residential building, it does not usually burn for long. In most cases, help arrives quickly and neutralizes the danger. This reason is because, the most common challenge associated with the fire damage repairs is not burnt items. It is the lingering, acrid odors which hang around after the flames are put out. 

At SERVPRO, we use a broad variety of techniques to eliminate these smells. Deodorization is the most important because it introduces odor fighting chemicals to the affected environment. Crucially, they get dispersed throughout the space in a very specific way. We call this "recreating the odor conditions" and it is a big part of repairing fire damage. 

In some cases, UV lamps and detection equipment are brought onsite to aid with the deodorization process. 

External Deodorization 

When it comes to large areas and whole rooms, the usual strategy is to deodorize the entire space. SERVPRO sets up ozone generators and leaves them running to fill the smoky room with odor-killing, neutralizing, masking, or pairing chemicals. 

Sometimes, we use dry and wet foggers to distribute the substances in a "mist" like form. It ensures that they are small enough to penetrate porous materials like wood and fabrics. This is important because, if the particles are too large, they get trapped at the surface. 

UV technology becomes becomes useful during the later stages when we are trying to target he remaining pockets of odor. They may, for example, be inside cupboards, crawlspaces, or crevices. UV lights, in some cases, are helpful ways to find evidence of these odor trails. 

Internal Deodorization

In the event that external techniques are not sufficient, SERVPRO may temporarily pull the carpet back. As it is such a large piece of porous fabric, it has the potential to hold lots of odor particles. Often, it makes sense to lift it up, expose the padding, and extract any sections of subflooring which smells bad. 

Following this, the technicians clean both sides of the carpet, seal the base floor the neutralize lingering odors, and replace the old padding with new material. Depending on the severity of the fire and the extent of the smoke damage, we may suggest a comprehensive steam clean for the carpet afterward. 

At SERVPRO of Shrewsury/Westborough, we have access to cutting-edge equipment and technology. If you need help ridding your home of stubborn smoke odors, just get in touch with our team. Call us at (508)757-7885. 

Meet Our Team - Click Here.

When Soot Damage Happens in Grafton. We Can Help.

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

Severely affected bathroom with soot and smoke damage.

When Smoke, Fire and Soot Damage happens to your Grafton Home, SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough is here to help you every step of the way.  

After a fire occurs, the first 48 hours is critical and can make a difference in restoring or replacing your personal belongings and property.

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough understands 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. 

SERVPRO of Shrewsbury/Westborough provides fire, soot, smoke removal, contents claims and document restoration. All of these services help to make sure your belongings and treasures are restored to preloss condition whenever possible. We will treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Learn more about Fire Damage Restoration Process: https://www.SERVPROshrewsburywestborough.com/fire-repair-process

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – 508-393-7898

Restoring Fire Damaged Contents and Personal Belongings in Westborough

2/5/2019 (Permalink)

A small kitchen fire has taken place in this home, and as you can see soot from the fire can stick onto just about anything! Call (508)757-7885.

SERVPRO Provides Many Techniques for Cleaning Possessions After a Fire & Smoke Event

Surviving a fire is an ordeal that may seem endless even as the restoration work begins. Faced with the sheer quantity of items in your house coated with soot and soaked in water or chemical firefighting residues you want to throw everything out and just start over again. This approach is often more costly, discards memories, and can be much more disruptive to the overall recovery process. 
 
Our experienced and compassionate team members responding to your Westborough fire damage master many efficient recovery strategies during their IICRC training. Their skill in transforming what seems ruined back to a preloss condition is a powerful motivation for you to reconsider restoration as you work with us to plan your post-fire agenda. 
 
SERVPRO offers the following IICRC certified services when cleaning and restoring your home’s fixtures and your personal possessions. 
 
Dry Cleaning 
Fires produce a variety of substances during combustion. Ash and light soot may spread throughout your home but frequently resolves entirely with dry sponging, brushing, and vacuuming with HEPA filter-fitted equipment. Dry cleaning can also rejuvenate clothing and decor fabrics such as draperies, throws, pillows, and linens. Choose a dry cleaner experienced with fire damage. 
 
Wet Cleaning 
More substantial and water-based residues often respond well to a wet cleaning method. The objects come clean with a combination of saturation and agitation appropriate to the material involved. Water or a water and cleaner mixture dissolves and lifts the residue off. Washable fabric laundering and dishwashing are just two of many examples of this type of cleaning. Ask us about our Esporta Washing System.
 
Spray And Wipe 
SERVPRO developed cleansers in diluted solutions applied with a spray bottle loosen coatings and debris on non-porous surfaces. The cleaning solution and the residue are washed away with a soft cloth. This method is commonly used for appliances, non-porous furniture frames and surfaces, walls, tile, hoods, woodwork, floors, and a host of other appropriate items that cannot be saturated without harm or for which saturation is impractical. 
 
Foam Cleaning 
Upholstery, mattresses and box springs, and fabrics that are permanently affixed to walls or trim respond well to an airy cleansing foam lightly applied with a brush. The foam dissolves and latches on to fire debris, and subsequent passes with a clean brush removes both foam and soot. 
 
Abrasive Cleaning 
SERVPRO crews attack the sticky, strongly adhered coatings of grease and electrical or chemical fires with an abrasive cleaning strategy. Care not to damage the underlying surface is necessary, but cream cleansers with abrasive ingredients, textured cloths, and sponges, or a combination remove the unsightly residues in many cases. The training our technicians receive guards against unnecessary secondary harm to the objects cleaned. 
 
Immersion Cleaning--Ultrasonic
A tub of a cleaning solution is the answer for items that can soak in water or solvent-based liquid. Rinsed off, the solution and sooty dirt stay in the tub, the objects restored. This method is excellent for decorative or personal possessions with intricate surfaces that can trap the fire residues. Ultrasonic cleaning is a specialized process that uses high-frequency sound waves to dislodge the coatings. Small, rapidly moving bubbles gently remove residues from belongings. SERVPRO technicians are certified in this cleaning methodology. Jewelry, knick-knacks, window blinds, and toys are some of the belongings that benefit from immersion cleaning. 
 
SERVPRO of Shrewsbury / Westborough offers a broad range of options for your fire restoration and cleaning needs. Call us at (508)757-7885 to see how we can help.

Click here for more about this beautiful town.

Fire Damage Soot Cleanup in Shrewsbury

8/23/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides immediate and thorough fire damage restoration services

Smoke from a burning house is highly corrosive and can damage anything given enough time. Apart from burnt wood, smoke from a house fire can come from other items such as leathers, plastics, and even chemicals. The resultant air can be extremely toxic. Time is a huge factor here: The sooner you commence the restoration process, the more items you can be able to save. 

Within a few hours of loss notification, you can expect SERVPRO at your Shrewsbury home to begin fire damage mitigation. Our professionals are uniformed, adequately equipped, trained, and certified by the IICRC to provide industry standard services. As soon as we arrive, we begin by walking you through the restoration process, step-by-step, highlighting what to expect and the projected results.

Our top priority is restoring damaged areas and contents to preloss condition, ensuring everything looks “Like it never even happened.” Most smoke or fire damage situations are characterized by floors, woodwork, ceilings, walls, and carpeting that need a thorough cleanup. After pretesting to determine the extent of the damage, our experienced professionals use specific cleaning products and equipment to salvage different types of surfaces in the structure.

In some cases, we may be able to dislodge lighter soot deposits on certain surfaces and save you the additional cost of repainting or refinishing. If needed, SERVPRO technicians can clean to prepare for painting. The cleanup process deodorizes and allows the new paint to adhere well to the surface.

Any restorable contents in the fire damage site are professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, area rugs, upholstery, and draperies. Our technicians begin by carefully testing every fabric in the structure to determine the most appropriate cleaning method. We utilize both dry and wet cleaning services to restore your contents to normal condition. This includes bedding, clothing, kitchen items, wood furniture, art, electronics, and much more. If requested, we can also provide an inventory of all items “to be claimed.”

Nobody wants to be caught on the wrong side of a fire disaster. However, if it happens to you, SERVPRO of Shrewsbury / Westborough can arrive quickly to deal with the fire damage. Call us anytime at (508)757-7885.

Visit https://shrewsburyma.gov/ for more information about Shrewsbury, MA.

What Should You Avoid As A Homeowner When Responding To Fire Damage In Grafton?

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

Certified SERVPRO Technicians Can Restore Your Fire Damaged Property in Grafton and surrounding towns!

It is completely understandable that when faced with the devastation of a fire, you want to help with the clean-up. Because of the nature of fire damage, the steps you take as a homeowner may make the restoration process harder and can cause permanent damage to your structure or possessions. When you have SERVPRO standing with you to move past the effects of the fire, we can advise on the precautions you must observe to ensure the safety of you and your family and to avoid making matters worse in this emergency situation. Our staff will guide you through the steps necessary to restore your home to preloss condition, outlining the master plan for your particular situation. 
 
You can take some simple steps to aid the restoration of fire damage in Grafton. Draping furniture and creating pathways on carpeting with clean towels or sheets will limit the spread of soot. Keep movement in the house to a minimum to stop residues of the fire from invading non-affected areas. Replace the filters in HVAC systems and cover vents with loosely woven fabric like cheesecloth. Coat chrome fixtures in the kitchen and bath with lubricant and clean any house plants with a water moistened rag. If you lost electricity in the fire, remove items from freezers and refrigerators. Keep hands and footwear clean as you move through the home so as not to deposit more smoke residue throughout. 
 
Avoid the temptation to wash walls or clean flooring or furniture without consulting SERVPRO professionals first. We are certified in properly removing the results of a fire, using proven techniques that are effective and designed to limit the spread of the soot and dirt. Do not attempt to operate appliances or electronics until our staff has cleaned and inspected them. The debris after a fire can cause serious electrical issues including shock and further fires. Consult with any vendor you bring clothing to for cleaning, ensuring they are experienced in dry or wet cleaning of fabrics damaged by fire to avoid residual odors. Canned and boxed food, as well as personal care items, may be unsafe to consume if exposed to heat, smoke and water so do not consume or use. 
 
The professionals at SERVPRO of Shrewsbury / Westborough will keep you and your family safe as they team with you to restore your home and possessions damaged by fire. Dispatchers await around the clock at (508)757-7885 to schedule a response to your fire damage.

Fire Damage in Grafton and the Residues it can Leave Behind

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

Residual Smoke, Soot, and Odors Are Vanquished by SERVPRO

The primary source of fire damage in most Massachusetts homes comes from smoke and soot residues. It is not as stark or violent, and most people do not realize just how damaging these residues are to their homes and property. They affect everything from divans to drywall and countertops to ceiling tiles.

Fire damage to a Grafton house, apartment, or condo requires professional restoration to return it to its pre-fire state. SERVPRO has developed an extensive list of cleaning procedures over decades of experience in the business to do just that.

Find and Identify - A response team member inspects the facility and all property inside to determine what residues are present. This inspection provides the data we need to develop a cleaning plan for your home. The inspector also pre-tests particular items to determine exactly which cleaners and equipment are required.

Vacuuming Dry Particles - Dry residues are powdery in nature and easily removed using a vacuum with a HEPA filter designed to capture smoke residue and even mold particles. Unless it smears a wet residue, technicians always try to vacuum up the element before applying a cleaner.

Dissolving Residues - Any residue that cannot be vacuumed or wiped away must be dissolved or loosened. This procedure allows the residue to be captured and removed. The type of surface covered by the residue determines which cleaner is used to prevent damage.

Capture and Remove - IICRC Certified technicians use cleaners and agitation devices to release residues and soil from the property and structural walls and floors. The cleaning solution suspends residue particles which are then vacuumed away and physically removed from your home.

Disposing Residues - We follow federal, state, and local requirements for disposal of all residual waste. No debris is ever disposed of on your property, down your sewer system, or into a nearby source of water. If there is a chance that a biohazard is present, we have qualified technicians that can handle any problem from asbestos abatement to lead paint clean up.

Restoring your home to a pre-fire condition is a privilege we take seriously. We are also lucky to have the ability to facilitate the rebuild! As a locally owned franchise, SERVPRO of Shrewsbury / Westborough is ready to help our fellow members of the community put their life back together. Call us at (508) 757-7885 today to get started with an inspection. We are always here to help! 

Incorrectly Stored Grilling Equipment Can be Damaging to Sheds and Garages in Shrewsbury

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Tackles Fire Damage in Your Home, Business or Any Additional Buildings

It does not take much for a fire to start. While it is a tragedy when a home catches on fire, garages and sheds can also have fires, too. Flammable liquids like gasoline and lighter fluid, cardboard boxes full of stored items, and odds and ends often found in these locations can easily combine with hot coals from a grill that has been put away too soon. Live coals can fall out when they burn small enough to escape through ventilation holes but are still large enough to ignite whatever materials they come into contact. 
 
Westborough residents who enjoy grilling their food outside can prevent fire damage from destroying their storage areas. Because live coals can look like ash, it is difficult to make sure that the grill is ready to be put back in its place. It is a better practice to wait until after eating to return the grill or to keep it outside. Fire-resistant grill covers are available that can protect grills from the elements and prevent rust while also preventing unwanted fires from igniting. 
 
If you have fire damage from a grill or other similar catastrophe in your shed or garage, SERVPRO is ready to repair the damage and restore your property quickly. Garages, particularly attached ones, typically have a structure that is similar to the rest of the home. We remove all the burned building materials after we have packed up any belongings that may get in the way of our work. Because of the location of these items, we take them to our facility so they need not clutter up your home's interior while we work. 
 
It is easy to replace damaged drywall, and if the fire happened in a garage, the typical floor is concrete, making cleaning reasonably easy to do. Floors that are industrial grade plastic or composite materials may require specialized repairs. If the flames reached into and damaged the roof, SERVPRO professionals cover the entire structure with a protective tarp before work begins. Fires cause enough damage, and we want to make sure that while we work to restore everything that there is no other damage. 
 
Fires in sheds can result in a total loss. Some sheds are constructed of thin metal panels or sheets, or are only of the outer wooden paneling, with a metal or wood beam support system to which the outer panels are then attached. The floor, if not of concrete, is often made of the same material as the rest of the shed. Fires often destroy non-concrete floors. As we sort through the remains of the fire, we salvage everything that we can. The rest we list on an inventory sheet so you can present it to the insurance agent. We provide inventory sheets regardless of the location of a fire. 
 
Grills, being made of metal, are often easily restored to working condition again. Other items may not be so lucky. Soot that has settled on different items should be removed as soon as possible. Tools and machinery are usually damaged if contaminants can work their way into working parts, but cleaning soon after a fire can remove grime, preventing problems and preserving functionality. 
 
Get back to grilling and relaxing with friends on your free time. When you have a disaster, call SERVPRO of Shrewsbury / Westborough at (508) 757-7885, anytime, including weekends and all holidays. We are always ready!

Fire can Damage Garages and Sheds if Grilling Equipment is Stored Incorrectly in Westborough

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Tackles Fire Damage in Your Home, Business or Any Additional Buildings

It does not take much for a fire to start. While it is a tragedy when a home catches on fire, garages and sheds can also have fires, too. Flammable liquids like gasoline and lighter fluid, cardboard boxes full of stored items, and odds and ends often found in these locations can easily combine with hot coals from a grill that has been put away too soon. Live coals can fall out when they burn small enough to escape through ventilation holes but are still large enough to ignite whatever materials they come into contact. 
 
Westborough residents who enjoy grilling their food outside can prevent fire damage from destroying their storage areas. Because live coals can look like ash, it is difficult to make sure that the grill is ready to be put back in its place. It is a better practice to wait until after eating to return the grill or to keep it outside. Fire-resistant grill covers are available that can protect grills from the elements and prevent rust while also preventing unwanted fires from igniting. 
 
If you have fire damage from a grill or other similar catastrophe in your shed or garage, SERVPRO is ready to repair the damage and restore your property quickly. Garages, particularly attached ones, typically have a structure that is similar to the rest of the home. We remove all the burned building materials after we have packed up any belongings that may get in the way of our work. Because of the location of these items, we take them to our facility so they need not clutter up your home's interior while we work. 
 
It is easy to replace damaged drywall, and if the fire happened in a garage, the typical floor is concrete, making cleaning reasonably easy to do. Floors that are industrial grade plastic or composite materials may require specialized repairs. If the flames reached into and damaged the roof, SERVPRO professionals cover the entire structure with a protective tarp before work begins. Fires cause enough damage, and we want to make sure that while we work to restore everything that there is no other damage. 
 
Fires in sheds can result in a total loss. Some sheds are constructed of thin metal panels or sheets, or are only of the outer wooden paneling, with a metal or wood beam support system to which the outer panels are then attached. The floor, if not of concrete, is often made of the same material as the rest of the shed. Fires often destroy non-concrete floors. As we sort through the remains of the fire, we salvage everything that we can. The rest we list on an inventory sheet so you can present it to the insurance agent. We provide inventory sheets regardless of the location of a fire. 
 
Grills, being made of metal, are often easily restored to working condition again. Other items may not be so lucky. Soot that has settled on different items should be removed as soon as possible. Tools and machinery are usually damaged if contaminants can work their way into working parts, but cleaning soon after a fire can remove grime, preventing problems and preserving functionality. 
 
Get back to grilling and relaxing with friends on your free time. When you have a disaster, call SERVPRO of Shrewsbury / Westborough at (508) 757-7885, anytime, including weekends and all holidays.