Essential Steps for Creating a Fire Evacuation Plan for Your Home or Business

11/6/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO members loading up the box truck with contents from a local Charlottesville home that caught fire.

When a fire emergency strikes, every second counts. Having a well-thought-out evacuation plan can save lives and minimize the risk of injury. At SERVPRO of Charlottesville, we understand the critical importance of fire safety, and we're here to help you develop a plan that ensures you, your family, and your team are prepared if the unthinkable happens. 

1. Assessing Your Space for Escape Routes 

Begin by examining your home or business layout. Identify multiple exit points - doors, windows, and even emergency ladders if needed. For multi-story buildings, ensure each level has at least two ways to escape in case one is blocked by fire. 

2. Install and Check Smoke Alarms 

Smoke alarms are a crucial part of early fire detection. Ensure alarms are installed in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on each floor of your home or business. Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries twice a year. 

3. Designate an Assembly Point 

Determine a safe, open area where everyone can gather after escaping. Choose a location far enough from the building to avoid smoke or debris but close enough for a quick regroup. 

In family homes, the front yard, mailbox area, or a neighbor's driveway can be ideal assembly points. In business settings, choose a parking lot or another easily accessible spot that doesn't interfere with emergency responders. 

4. Assign Roles and Responsibilities

In homes, assign roles for each family member, such as someone designated to help children, older adults, or pets. In larger families, it's helpful to assign an adult to check that everyone is out safely. 

In a business, designate fire wardens or team leads responsible for guiding people to exits, checking rooms, or even assisting those with limited mobility. Clear role assignments can prevent confusion during an emergency. 

5. Practice Fire Drills Regularly

Practice makes perfect. Set aside time every few months to conduct a fire drill in both homes and workplaces. Regular practice will help everyone stay calm and remember the steps when it matters most. 

SERVPRO of Charlottesville is Here to Help^® After a Fire 

Even with the best fire preparedness, fires can still happen. Once the flames are extinguished, the restoration process begins. SERVPRO of Charlottesville is available 24/7 to help you recover and restore your property after fire damage. Our team handles every step, from smoke and soot removal to addressing water damage from firefighting efforts. 

Beyond the Flames: Understanding the Secondary Damages of Fire

10/2/2024 (Permalink)

Crew member carefully removes fire- damaged debris to begin the restoration process.

When a fire breaks out, the immediate concern is extinguishing the flames and ensuring everyone's safety. Once the fire is put out, many property owners are faced with unexpected challenges: the secondary damages caused by the very efforts used to save their property. While the fire itself is devastating, the water used in firefighting can introduce new risks, such as water damage and microbial growth. 

At SERVPRO of Charlottesville, we understand that fire restoration is more than just dealing with smoke and soot. It's about addressing every potential issue - visible and hidden - to ensure your property is truly restored to a safe and livable condition. 

How Water Can Become a major Problem After a Fire

When firefighters work to extinguish flames, large amounts of water are often required, often soaking the structure and saturating building materials. While this is essential to save the building, the aftermath can be complicated. Water can:

• Damage Walls, Floors, and Ceilings: If left unchecked, excess water can warp wooden floors, weaken drywall, and damage ceilings, creating structural vulnerabilities that aren't immediately obvious. 
• Soak into Belongings: Furniture, carpets, and personal items can become waterlogged and may develop microbial growth or foul odors. 
• Encourage Microbial Growth: With the right combination of moisture and warmth, mold can begin to develop within just 24-48 hours, creating an entirely new set of problems to address. 

Mold: The Hidden Consequence

Mold spores are naturally present in the environment, but when water is introduced into a space, these spores can quickly take hold. Mold can spread rapidly through wet materials and, if not properly addressed, it can impact air quality and cause health effects. After a fire, the conditions for mold growth are often ideal, making it crucial to handle water damage as soon as possible. 

With fire damage comes unexpected complications, but SERVPRO of Charlottesville has the expertise to tackle every challenge. Our team understands that true restoration means leaving no stone unturned, and that includes addressing secondary damage like water and mold. By choosing SERVPRO, you're choosing a partner who will see your property through from start to finish, ensuring your space is safe, healthy, and restored to its pre-fire condition. 

Understanding Fire Damage: How Flames and Soot Impact Your Property Inside and Out

9/13/2024 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO crew member doing demo after a local Charlottesville home caught on fire.

Fire can devastate homes and businesses, often leaving behind damage that extends far beyond what meets the eye. While the flames may destroy furniture, appliances, and personal belongings, it's important to understand that fires can impact not only the interior of a structure but the exterior as well. 

The Impact of Fires on Structures

When a fire occurs, the intense heat can cause structural damage that weakens walls, floors, and support beams. Even areas of the building that were not directly touched by the flames can suffer from smoke and heat damage. Exterior damage can also result from melting siding, cracked windows, and soot-stained roofing, all of which can compromise the integrity of the property. This type of damage can make homes or businesses unsafe until professional restoration is complete. 

Soot Damage: The Hidden Threat

One of the most dangerous aftermaths of a fire is soot. Soot is made up of tiny carbon particles that settle on surfaces after a fire. It's not just an eyesore-soot is hazardous to your health and can cause long-term damage to belongings  if not properly removed. 

Here's why removing soot from all surfaces is crucial:

1. Health Risks - Soot can contain harmful chemicals that, when inhaled, pose respiratory risks. This is especially dangerous for children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing conditions. 
2. Damage to Belongings - Soot isn't just dust; it's corrosive. If left uncleaned, it can permanently damage furniture, clothing, fabrics, as well as walls, floors, ceilings, and even electronics. 
3. Lingering Odor - Soot and smoke residue can embed in porous materials like wood and fabric, leaving behind a persistent odor that won't go away without thorough cleaning. 

Attempting to clean soot on your own can lead to further damage. Professional cleaning techniques ensure that soot is properly removed from all affected areas and items, preventing corrosion and health risks. At SERVPRO of Charlottesville, we use specialized tools and techniques to restore your property and belongings after a fire, making sure every trace of soot is gone. 

From the inside of your home or business to the outside, fire damage needs expert care to ensure full restoration. Our team is available 24/7 to help bring your property back to pre-fire condition. 

Protecting Your Home from Fire Damage This Fall: Tips from SERVPRO

9/10/2024 (Permalink)

A local Charlottesville home experienced fire damage. Pictured is the laundry room.

As the fall season quickly approaches, cooler weather brings the charm of cozy fireplaces, scented candles, and holiday feasts. While these traditions make the season special, they also increase the risk of fire hazards in your home. At SERVPRO of Charlottesville, we know how devastating fire damage can be, and we're here to help you take proactive steps to protect your home this fall. 

1. Fireplace Safety: Fireplaces are a fall staple, but they can be dangerous if not properly maintained. Before lighting your first fire, have your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional to prevent creosote buildup, which is highly flammable. Make sure the area around your fireplace is clear of flammable materials, and always use a screen to contain sparks.
2. Candle Caution: Candles pose a fire risk. Be sure to place candles on stable surfaces and away from curtains, paper, or other flammable items. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to sleep. Consider using flameless, battery-operated candles for a safer alternative. 
3. Cooking Safety: Fall marks the beginning of holiday cooking. Whether it's a family feast or a simple weeknight dinner, kitchen fires are a common danger. Never leave cooking unattended, especially when frying or grilling. Keep flammable objects, like oven mitts and dish towels away from your stovetop.
4. Clear Out Dry Leaves: While raking up fall leaves is a common chore, piles of dry leaves near your home can be a fire hazard. Make sure to clear leaves away from your house, garage, and any outdoor equipment. If you plan to burn leaves, be sure to follow local fire safety guidelines. 

Even with the best precautions, fires can still happen. If you experience fire damage, SERVPRO of Charlottesville is here for you 24/7. Our highly trained team specializes in fire damage restoration, smoke odor removal, and cleaning services to get your home back to normal as quickly as possible.

We understand fire damage can be overwhelming, but you don't have to go through it alone. From initial damage assessment to the final restoration, we're with you every step of the way. 

Top Causes of Home Fires in Charlottesville

8/19/2024 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO crew member is tackling demolition at a Charlottesville home that experienced fire damage.

In Charlottesville, VA, as in many other parts of the country, the leading causes of house fires are generally consistent. Understanding these causes can help residents take preventative measures to protect their homes and families. The top causes of home fires in Charlottesville include;

1. Cooking - Related Fires: Cooking is the leading cause of home fires, often due to unattended cooking, grease fires, or flammable items left too close to the stove.
2. Heating Equipment: During the colder months, the use of heating equipment such as space heaters, wood stoves, and fireplaces increases, making it a common cause of fires in Charlottesville.
3. Electrical Fires: Electrical fires can occur due to faulty wiring, overloaded outlets, or the improper use of extension cords. In older homes, which are common in Charlottesville, outdated electrical systems may pose a higher risk. 
4. Smoking Indoors: Smoking is another leading cause of home fires, particularly when cigarettes are not properly extinguished. 
5. Candles: Candles add ambiance to a home, but also pose a fire risk if left unattended or placed near flammable materials. 

By being aware of these common causes of house fires in Charlottesville and taking appropriate precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire in your home. Regular maintenance, attentiveness, and proper use of household items are key to keeping your home safe from fire hazards. 

Understanding the Impact of Fire Damage and How SERVPRO of Charlottesville Can Help

8/9/2024 (Permalink)

A home in Charlottesville suffered a fire loss. SERVPRO crews are pictured removing debris and starting clean-up.

When a fire strikes, the damage extends far beyond what's visible. The flames, smoke, and soot can wreak havoc on your property, leaving behind structural damage, unpleasant odors, and health risks. Even after the fire is extinguished, the aftermath can be overwhelming. 

At SERVPRO of Charlottesville, we understand the challenges of fire damage and the urgency of restoring your home or business to it's pre-fire condition. Our team of highly trained professionals is equipped with the knowledge and tools to handle every aspect of the restoration process - from soot and smoke removal to deodorization, contents removal, and demolition, you can count on us to be there when you need us most. 

If you're dealing with the aftermath of a fire, don't hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO of Charlottesville. We're here to support you every step of the way. 

Understanding the Top Three Causes of Home Fires in Charlottesville, VA

7/24/2024 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO crew member doing demo in a Charlottesville home that caught on fire.

When it comes to home fires, understanding the common causes can make a significant difference in prevention. In Charlottesville, VA, the three most recurrent reasons for home fires include:

Cooking Related Incidents – Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and injuries in Charlottesville. Unattended cooking, grease fires, and accidental spills can quickly escalate into dangerous situations. It is essential to stay aware and never leave the kitchen while prepping a meal, especially when using high heat or oil.

Heating Equipment – During colder months, many residents rely heavily on heating equipment to stay warm. However, improper use or malfunctioning heaters can lead to fires. Space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves must be used with caution. Always keep flammable items away from heat sources and ensure that your equipment is well-maintained and functioning properly.

Electrical Malfunctions – Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and outdated electrical systems are significant fire hazards. In Charlotteville’s older homes, the risk is even greater. Consistent inspections by a licensed electrician can help identify and correct potential concerns before they cause the fire. Avoid using extension cords for permanent solutions and ensure all electrical work is up to date.

Understanding and addressing these common causes is the first step in prevention. Some practical tips to avoid these dangers include staying attentive while cooking a meal, using heated equipment safely, and ensuring electrical safety in your home. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of home fires. At SERVPRO of Charlottesville, we’re committed to helping you protect your home and family. If you ever experience a fire, our team is ready to assist with expert restoration services. Stay safe, and do not hesitate to reach out to us for all of your fire prevention and restoration needs.

Smoke From Nearby Fire Infiltrates Charlottesville Home?

5/7/2024 (Permalink)

We restore smoke and soot damage in Albemarle County.

Our local Charlottesville team is a trusted leader in smoke and smoke odor removal services. Removing smoke and smoke odor from a home often requires specialized equipment and techniques. Here are some examples of the kinds of equipment we may use for this purpose:

Air Purifiers and Filtration Systems: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) and activated carbon filters can help remove smoke particles and odor from the air.

Ozone Generators: Ozone generators produce ozone, a molecule that can effectively neutralize smoke odor by breaking down odor-causing compounds.

Thermal Foggers: Thermal fogging equipment disperses a deodorizing fog containing specialized chemicals that can penetrate porous surfaces and neutralize smoke odor molecules.

Hydroxyl Generators: Hydroxyl generators use ultraviolet (UV) light to produce hydroxyl radicals, which react with and neutralize odor molecules in the air. Hydroxyl generators are safe for use in occupied spaces and can effectively eliminate smoke odor without leaving behind any chemical residues.

HVAC Cleaning and Ductwork Sealing: Smoke particles and odor can accumulate in HVAC systems and ductwork, spreading throughout the home when the system is in operation. Professional HVAC cleaning and ductwork sealing can help remove smoke residue and prevent its re-entry into the indoor environment.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Charlottesville sustains fire damage, our local Charlottesville team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 434-977-5850.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Electric Bike Battery Explodes in Garage and Causes Fire Damage in Scottsville Home?

4/9/2024 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in Albemarle and Fluvanna Counties.

Our local Charlottesville team is trained and certified to restore fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Scottsville residents know they can rely on us 24/7 to respond to fire damage emergencies. Electronic bikes can cause fire damage if the lithium battery explodes. Here are some fire prevention safety tips from the New York Fire Department for devices powered by lithium batteries:

• Buy an electric bike that is certified by a qualified testing laboratory
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and storage
• Always use the manufacturer’s cord and power adapter made specifically for the bike
• Do not leave an electric bike unattended while it’s charging, and don’t leave it charging overnight
• If a battery overheats or you notice an odor, a change in shape or color, leaking, or odd noises, stop using it immediately
• If the battery reacts in an alarming way, and it is safe to do so, move the device away from anything that can catch fire and call 911
• Keep batteries and devices at room temperature. Do not place them in direct sunlight.
• Store batteries away from anything flammable
• Do not use aftermarket batteries
• Do not charge an electronic device under your pillow, on your bed, or near a couch
• Do not block your primary way into and out of the building with an e-bike
• Do not leave an e-bike in a child’s room

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Scottsville has fire damage, our local Charlottesville team is Here to Help® Call us today at 434-977-5850.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Scottsville Home Sustains Fire Damage from Faulty Electrical Wiring?

1/9/2024 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Albemarle County.

Our local Charlottesville team responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year in Albermarle County. Scottsville residents know they can count on us to perform all phases of the restoration, from the initial cleanup phase to supervising the final reconstruction phase of the job.

According to the United States Fire Administration, there were 24,000 electrical fires in homes in 2021. Electrical fires can occur for a number of reasons, including:

Overheating: Faulty wiring can result in excessive heat buildup due to resistance or short circuits. Overheated wires can ignite nearby combustible materials, such as insulation or wood, leading to a fire.

Arcing and Sparks: Damaged or frayed wires can arc or produce sparks when electricity jumps across gaps or breaks in the circuit. These sparks can easily ignite flammable materials in the vicinity.

Overloaded Circuits: Overloading circuits by connecting too many appliances or devices to a single circuit can cause wires to heat up beyond their capacity. The excessive load can lead to overheating and potential fires.

Outdated Wiring: Aging or outdated electrical systems may not meet modern safety standards, making them more prone to wear and deterioration, which can increase the risk of electrical fires.

Poor Installation: Incorrectly installed wiring or the use of substandard materials can compromise the integrity of the electrical system, increasing the likelihood of electrical faults and fires.

Call Us Today!

When your Scottsville home or commercial business has fire damage, our local Charlottesville team is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 434-977-5850.

SERVPRO® franchise is independently owned and operated.

Decorations Catch Fire at Charlottesville Area Home

11/14/2023 (Permalink)

We are trained and certified to restore fire damage in Charlottesville.

Do you know that decorations are the first thing to catch fire in about 800 reported home fires each year? Our local SERVPRO of Charlottesville team has been restoring fire damage for Charlottesville area residents and business owners for over many years, and we want everyone to have a safe and fire-free year.

We are sharing these safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Do not leave any candles unattended while lit and make sure the area surrounding candles is clear of any possible hazards
• Choose fire-resistant decorations to reduce the risk of fire. Avoid highly flammable materials in your decor.
• Keep decorations away from heat sources like candles, fireplaces, and heaters, maintaining a safe distance to prevent accidental ignition.
• Remember to turn off decorative lights when not in use to prevent overheating and electrical fires.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Charlottesville needs fire damage restoration services, SERVPRO of Charlottesville is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Are the Leading Causes of Residential Fires in Scottsville?

10/3/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Albemarle County.

October marks Residential Fire Awareness Month, a month dedicated to raising awareness about residential fires and ensuring your home and family are protected. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more home fires and fire casualties result from five sources: cooking, heating, electrical distribution, lighting equipment, intentional fire setting, and smoking materials.

For years, our local Charlottesville team has been restoring fire damage in Scottsville, and offer these statistics from the NFPA related to fire damage:

• More than one-quarter (26 percent) of reported fires in 2015-2019 occurred in homes. Even worse, three-quarters (75 percent) of civilian fire deaths and almost three-quarters (72 percent) of all reported injuries were caused by home fires.
• During these five years, United States fire departments responded to an estimated average of 346,800 home structure fires per year. These fires caused an annual average of 2,620 civilian deaths, 11,070 civilian fire injuries, and $7.3 billion in direct property damage.
• Over the five years of 2015–2019, cooking was the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries, while smoking was the leading cause of home fire deaths.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Scottsville has fire damage and you need fire damage restoration services;  our local Charlottesville team is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Expect When I Call for Fire Damage Restoration Services in Ivy?

9/26/2023 (Permalink)

We are highly trained and certified to restore fire damage in Albemarle County.

If you have ever been in a residential fire, you know how chaotic and stressful the experience can be. Our local Charlottesville team is highly trained and certified to perform all phases of restoration, from boarding and tarping the structure to minimize the chances for secondary damage, to safely cleaning and repairing your home. Ivy residents can rely on our fast emergency response and our use of advanced technology and cleaning protocols to safely clean and repair fire damage, no matter how big the job is.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Process

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When materials burn, they leave behind a unique signature of soot that varies greatly depending on what fueled the fire and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below reflect the steps we take for a “typical” fire loss:

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Ivy has fire damage and you need cleanup and restoration services, our local Charlottesville team is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Air Conditioner Unit Catches Fire and Causes Soot and Smoke Damage in Charlottesville Home?

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

We are highly trained and certified to restore fire damage in Albemarle County.

It’s pretty rare for an air conditioning unit to catch fire, but it can happen. Our local Charlottesville team restores fire damage in Charlottesville every year. To minimize the risk of an air conditioning unit catching fire, homeowners can take the following precautions from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Have the unit installed by a professional technician according to manufacturer guidelines and local building codes
• Schedule regular maintenance and inspections by qualified HVAC professionals
• Keep the area around the air conditioning unit clean and free of flammable materials
• Replace worn-out or damaged power cords, wires, and electrical components
• Ensure proper ventilation and airflow around the unit
• Install smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in the vicinity of the air conditioning unit
• In case of any unusual sounds, odors, or performance issues with the unit, immediately turn it off and have it inspected by a professional

While the risk of an indoor air conditioning unit catching fire is relatively low, it's essential to prioritize safety and take appropriate measures to prevent any potential hazards. Regular maintenance and professional inspections can help identify and address any potential issues before they turn into dangerous situations.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business sustains fire damage and you need fire damage restoration services, our local Charlottesville team is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire, smoke, and soot damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Outdoor Electrical Lighting Fire in Crozet Backyard?

8/29/2023 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in Albemarle County.

Our local Charlottesville team is a trusted leader in fire damage restoration services. Crozet residents have relied on us to restore fire damage for many years. One leading cause of fire damage is electrical fires. Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association for staying safe around electrical equipment and powerlines.

Powerlines

Have a professional tree cutting service trim branches that might fall on electric wiring. Use a wooden or fiberglass ladder outside. Keep the ladder at least 10 feet away from power lines. Never touch anyone or anything in contact with a downed wire. Power lines may be live; stay a safe distance away. Report downed wires to authorities right away.

Equipment Safety

• Have a qualified electrician do all the electrical work
• To prevent an electric shock, make sure all your outside electrical receptacles are ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected
• Use lighting and power tools that are listed by a qualified test laboratory and make sure they are made for outdoor use
• Store your electric tools indoors
• Keep electric tools away from children
• Check all lighting and extension cords for damage before using. Replace damaged cords right away.
• Use extension cords that are listed by a qualified test laboratory and are marked for outdoor use. Extension cords are not meant for long-term use.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Crozet has fire damage and you need fire damage restoration services, our local Charlottesville team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Propane Grill Gas Leak Cause of Fire in Charlottesville Backyard?

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Albemarle County.

July is the peak month for grilling fires in the United States. Our local Charlottesville team responds to fire damage emergencies every summer and offers these helpful tips for propane grill safety from the National Fire Protection Association:

Propane Grills

• Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year
• Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose
• A propane leak will release bubbles

If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off both the gas tank and the grill.

• If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again
• If the leak does not stop, call the fire department
• 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 off the grill and gas and wait at least five minutes before re-lighting it.

Call Us Today!

You never know when a fire will break out and cause property damage, but when your home or commercial business in Charlottesville has a fire damage emergency, our local Charlottesville team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Cooking Fire Extinguished by Resident in Charlottesville?

6/13/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Albermarle County.

My neighbor purchased a fire extinguisher for home use and put one in her kitchen and garage. It’s a good thing she did because a dish towel caught on fire while she was cooking and set the window blinds on fire. She put out the fire quickly, but extensive smoke, soot, and debris were left to deal with. Our local Charlottesville team is trained and certified to restore fire, soot, and smoke damage. Here are some tips for purchasing a fire extinguisher from the National Fire Protection Association:

• For the home, select a multi-purpose extinguisher (can be used on all types of home fires) that is large enough to put out a small fire but not so heavy as to be difficult to handle
• Choose a fire extinguisher that carries the label of an independent testing laboratory
• Read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher and become familiar with its parts and operation before a fire breaks out.
• Install fire extinguishers close to an exit and keep your back to a clear exit when you use the device so you can make an easy escape if the fire cannot be controlled
• Know when to go. Fire extinguishers are one element of a fire response plan, but the primary element is safe escape. Every household should have a home fire escape plan and working smoke alarms.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Charlottesville sustains fire damage, our local Charlottesville team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Faulty Electrical Connection Causes Clothes Dryer Fire in Charlottesville Home?

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Albemarle County.

One day while doing laundry, I heard a loud crackling noise. Then I smelled the smoke. Then I looked down in time to see sparks emanating from my clothes dryer erupt into flames! I grabbed the fire extinguisher and put out the fire before any major damage occurred.  

Our local team in Charlottesville is trained and certified to restore fire, smoke, and soot damage quickly and efficiently. According to the National Fire Protection Association, lint and dust are two factors that contribute to clothes dryer fires in the United States.

• In 2010-2014, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 15,970 home structure fires involving clothes dryers or washing machines each year
• These fires caused annual averages of 13 civilian deaths, 444 civilian injuries, and $238 million in direct property damage
• The vast majority of fires (92 percent) involved clothes dryers
• The leading items first ignited in dryer fires were dust, fiber, or lint (26 percent of total) and clothing (26 percent), while items first ignited in washing machine fires were part of the appliance itself, including wire or cable insulation (26 percent), appliance housing or casing (24 percent), and drive belt (11 percent)

Call Us Today!

When you suffer fire damage in your Charlottesville home or commercial business, our team in Charlottesville is Here to Help.® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Free Union Seniors Will Benefit From These Fire Safety Tips?

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration services in Albemarle County.

Our team in Charlottesville responds to fire damage emergencies every year in Free Union. To increase fire safety for older adults, the National Fire Protection Association offers the following guidelines:

• Keep it low
  If you don't live in an apartment building, consider sleeping in a room on the ground floor to make emergency escape easier. Ensure smoke alarms are installed in every sleeping room and outside any sleeping area. Have a telephone installed where you sleep in case of emergency.
• Sound the alarm
  Most fatal fires occur when people are sleeping, and because smoke can put you into a deeper sleep rather than waking you, it's important to have a mechanical early warning of a fire to ensure you wake up. If anyone in your household is deaf or if your hearing is diminished, consider installing a smoke alarm that uses a flashing light or vibration to alert you to a fire emergency. 
• Do the drill
  Regular fire drills help you know what to do in a home fire. If you or someone you live with cannot escape alone, designate a household member to assist and decide on backups in case the designee isn't home.
• Open up
  Make sure you can open all doors and windows in your home. Check to be sure that windows haven't been sealed shut with paint or nailed shut; if they have, arrange for someone to break the seals around your home or remove the nails.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Free Union has a fire damage emergency, our local team in Charlottesville is Here to Help.® Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Comprehensive Fire Damage Restoration Process Used in North Garden?

10/11/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Albemarle County.

Our team in Charlottesville has been restoring fire damage in the North Garden area for many years. Although every fire damage event will vary, we follow the same efficient process for every customer we serve.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event to help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

We will board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes most of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. 

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call Us!

Our local team in Charlottesville is Here to Help ® when your North Garden home or commercial business needs fire damage restoration services. Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Brush Fire Causes Soot and Smoke Damage in Free Union?

9/9/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Albemarle County.

Free Union is a beautiful place to live, and this rural part of Albemarle County may be exposed to brush fires during the summer. Our local team in Charlottesville has the training, equipment, and experience to restore fire damage quickly and efficiently.

Here is some information from the National Fire Protection Association about brush fires:

While devastating fires in the wildland-urban interface have become common stories on the nightly news, many people do not realize that brush, grass, and forest fires account for almost one-quarter (23 percent) of fires handled by local fire departments.

• During 2011-2015, local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 306,000 brush, grass, and forest fires per year, an average of 840 fires per day
• During 2011-2015, heavy or light vegetation was the item first ignited in an average of 6,200 reported home structure fires per year. These fires caused an average of seven civilian deaths, 53 civilian injuries, and $130 million in direct property damage.
• The vast majority of brush, grass and forest fires in 2011-2015 were caused by human activities. Leading causes include intentional fire setting, open burning of waste, smoking materials, and electrical power or utility lines.

Call Us Today!

When your Free Union home or commercial business has a fire damage emergency, our local team in Charlottesville can help. We typically arrive onsite within our hours of your call. Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Smoke and Soot Removal Services in Free Union?

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Albemarle County.

Our local team in Charlottesville wants everyone in Free Union to prepare for brush or wildfires. Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association for preparing defensible space around your home and property.

The home and the area 0-5’ from the furthest attached exterior point of the home; is defined as a non-combustible area. Science tells us this is the most important zone to take immediate action on as it is the most vulnerable to embers. START WITH THE HOUSE ITSELF, then move into the landscaping section of the Immediate Zone.

• Clean roofs and gutters of dead leaves, debris, and pine needles that could catch embers
• Replace or repair any loose or missing shingles or roof tiles to prevent ember penetration
• Reduce embers that could pass through vents in the eaves by installing 1/8 inch metal mesh screening
• Clean debris from exterior attic vents and install 1/8 inch metal mesh screening to reduce embers
• Repair or replace damaged or loose window screens and any broken windows. Screen or box-in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris and combustible materials from accumulating.
• Move any flammable material away from wall exteriors – mulch, flammable plants, leaves and needles, firewood piles – anything that can burn. Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches. 

 Call Us Today!

When your Free Union home or commercial business has fire damage, our local team in Charlottesville will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Charcoal Grill Fire in Charlottesville Backyard?

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Albemarle County.

Our local team in Charlottesville wants everyone to have a safe and fire-free summer this year. The City of Charlottesville’s website offers excellent information about fire safety, including city guidelines for outdoor grilling:

Charcoal Grills

• Use one of the following methods to start charcoal for cooking:
• If you use a charcoal chimney to start charcoal for cooking, use a long match to avoid burning your fingers when lighting the paper.
• If you use an electric charcoal starter, use a grounded extension cord
• If you choose to use lighter fluid, use only fluid intended for charcoal grills 
• Never add charcoal starter fluid to coals or kindling that has already been ignited 
• Never use gasoline or any other flammable liquid except charcoal starter or lighter fluid to start a charcoal fire 
• Store the charcoal starter fluid outside, out of reach of children, and away from heat sources 
• Dispose of charcoal coals only after they are cool. Empty the coals into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid used only to collect coals. Place the container outside away from anything that can burn. Never empty coals directly into a trash can. 

Call Us Today!

When your Charlottesville home or commercial business has fire damage, our team in Charlottesville is on call and ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Seven-Step Process for Restoring Fire Damage in Free Union?

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage “Like it never even happened,” in Albemarle County.

Free Union residents have relied on our local team in Charlottesville to restore fire damage, no matter how big the job is. Although every fire event varies in the extent of damage, we follow the same process for every fire loss:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

We will board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes most of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. 

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call Us Today!

When your Free Union home or business has fire damage, our team in Charlottesville can help. Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Kids Playing With Fire in Charlottesville Backyard?

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Albemarle County.

Our team in Charlottesville restores fire damage, no matter how big the job is. Each year thousands of fires are started by kids playing with fire. The National Fire Protection Association offers these tips for preventing children from playing with fire:

• Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children, up high, preferably in a locked cabinet
• Closely supervise children, making sure that they are kept away from other fire sources, including lit candles, cigarettes, bonfires, and stoves
• Explain that fire moves very fast and can hurt as soon as it touches them. Tell them that this is why matches and lighters are tools for adults only.
• Teach young children never to touch matches or lighters. They must tell a grown-up when matches or lighters are found.
• Establish clear rules and consequences about unsupervised and unauthorized uses of fire
• Be a good example! Always use fire sources — matches, lighters, candles, fireplaces, and campfires — in a safe manner. Never treat them as toys, or children may imitate you.
• Talk with children about what their friends or other children are doing with fire. What do they see online in video games, TV, movies, and social media? Teach them specific ways to resist the peer pressure to misuse fire.
• Give praise for showing respect and age-appropriate responsible behavior toward fire

Call Us!

When you need fire damage restoration services for your Charlottesville home or business, our team in Charlottesville is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do While Waiting For Help to Arrive to Restore Fire Damage in My Charlottesville Home?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

We are trained and certified to clean and restore hoarding scenes in Albemarle County.

Our team in Charlottesville restores fire damage throughout the year in Albemarle County. Here are some tips from our website on things you can do and should not do while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After A Fire

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

What NOT To Do After A Fire

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

Call Us Today!

When you need help restoring fire damage in your Charlottesville home or commercial business, our team in Charlottesville is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Hoarding Fire in Earlysville?

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

We are trained and certified to clean and restore hoarding scenes in Albemarle County.

Our technicians in Charlottesville are certified to clean and restore dangerous hoarding scenes in Earlysville. According to the National Fire Protection Association, hoarding presents fire danger and impacts first responders.

Why Hoarding Increases Fire Risks

• Cooking is unsafe if flammable items are close to the stove or oven
• Heating units may be too close to things that can burn. They might also be placed on unstable surfaces. If a heater tips over into a pile, it can cause a fire.
• Electrical wiring may be old or worn from the weight of piles. Pests could chew on wires. Damaged wires can start fires.
• Open flames from smoking materials or candles in a home with excess clutter are very dangerous
• Blocked pathways and exits may hinder escape from a fire

How Hoarding Impacts First Responders

• Hoarding puts first responders in harm’s way
• Firefighters cannot move swiftly through a home filled with clutter
• Responders can be trapped in a house when exits are blocked. They can be injured by objects falling from piles.
• The weight of the stored items, especially if water is added to put out a fire, can lead to building collapse
• Fighting fires is very risky in a hoarding home. It is hard to enter the home to provide medical care. The clutter impedes the search and rescue of people and pets.

Call Us Today!

When you have fire damage in your Earlysville home or commercial business, our team in Charlottesville is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Faulty Wire Fire in Scottsville?

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Albemarle County.

SERVPRO® of Charlottesville responds to more fire damage emergencies in Scottsville during the winter months than at any other time of the year. Here are some facts about winter fires and some safety tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency:

• Half of all home heating fires occur in December, January, and February
• One in every seven home fires and one in every five home deaths involves heating equipment
• Plug only one heat-producing appliance (like a space heater) into an electrical outlet at a time
• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet from any heat source like fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators, or space heaters
• Keep portable generators outside, away from windows, and as far away from your home as possible
• Install and test carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month
• Have a qualified professional clean and inspect your chimney and vents every year
• Store cooled ashes in a tightly covered metal container, and keep it outside at least ten feet from your home and any nearby buildings
• For more information on how to prevent winter fires, visit usfa.fema.gov/winter and www.nfpa.org/winter

Call Us Today!

When your Scottsville home or business needs fire damage restoration services, SERVPRO® of Charlottesville has a team of highly trained technicians ready to assist you. Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Kitchen Fire in North Garden?

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Albemarle County.

According to a National Fire Protection Association report, unattended cooking was the leading cause of cooking fires and casualties. Clothing was the item first ignited in less than 1 percent of these fires, but clothing ignitions led to 8 percent of the home cooking fire deaths. SERVPRO® of Charlottesville technicians have the training, experience, and equipment required to clean and restore fire damage quickly and efficiently. North Garden residents can count on us to be with you every step of the way until the job is complete.

Although every fire loss is unique, we use the same process to restore fire damage as follows:

• Step 1: Emergency Contact
• Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
• Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service
• Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
• Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
• Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing
• Step 7: Restoration

Our technicians are trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification.

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

Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency in your North Garden home or commercial business, SERVPRO® of Charlottesville is has a team of highly trained technicians ready to assist you day and night. Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Holiday Light Fire in Charlottesville?

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Albemarle County.

SERVPRO® of Charlottesville has been restoring fire damage for residents and business owners in Albemarle County for many years. More home fires happen around the winter holiday season than at any other time of the year. With this in mind, we want everyone to have a safe holiday season and offer these safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Holiday Decorating Safety Tips

• Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
• Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn
• Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged
• Keep decorations away from windows and doors
• Blow out lit candles when you leave the room or go to bed
• Turn off all light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed

Call Us!

Charlottesville residents and commercial business owners can count on us to respond quickly when there is a fire damage emergency. SERVPRO® of Charlottesville’s technicians are on-call to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Smoke Odor and Fire Damage in Keswick Home?

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration in Albemarle County.

SERVPRO® of Charlottesville invests in equipment and technology to improve the efficiency of our services. Our Keswick customers benefit from the equipment we use to remove smoke odor, including:

Air Scrubber or Filter

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system (HVAC) air scrubber or a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) air purifier is useful for capturing larger smoke molecules. There will still be some residual odor from smaller molecules or surface residues.

Ozone Generator

An ozone generator is a fast and highly effective smoke odor restoration method. These machines emit ozone, which follows the same paths through the air as smoke and oxidizes any residual traces in the air or on surfaces.

Thermal Fogging

Thermal fogging is an intensive treatment involving fogging machines. After residents evacuate, smoke cleaning professionals fill a structure with petroleum distillates that neutralize odors and ventilate the area.

Hydroxyl Generator

A hydroxyl generator is a slower and gentler alternative to ozone. These machines rely on ultraviolet light to generate hydroxyl radicals that eliminate smoke odors. It will take about three to five days of continuous operation to achieve the same results as a single ozone treatment.

Vapor Modification

Vapor modification is another odor elimination method that relies on aromatic compounds and a blower or fan to neutralize smoke odor.

Call Us Today!

When your Keswick home or business needs fire damage restoration services, SERVPRO® of Charlottesville’s technicians are ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Contained in Scottsville?

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration in Albemarle County.

SERVPRO® of Charlottesville responds to more fire damage emergencies during the holiday season than any other time of the year. Here are some fire extinguisher safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Use a portable fire extinguisher when the fire is confined to a small area, such as a wastebasket, and is not growing; everyone has exited the building; the fire department has been called or is being called, and the room is not filled with smoke.

• To operate a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS:
• Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism

o   Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire

o   Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly

o   Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side

• For the home, select a multi-purpose extinguisher (can be used on all types of home fires) that is large enough to put out a small fire but not so heavy as to be difficult to handle
• Choose a fire extinguisher that carries the label of an independent testing laboratory
• Read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher and become familiar with its parts and operation before a fire breaks out

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO® of Charlottesville is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on-call 24-hours a day and typically arrive onsite within four hours of your call. Call us today at 434-977-5850. We’ll restore your fire damage in Scottsville, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire and Smoke Damage in North Garden?

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage in Albemarle County.

I was out of town when the call came that my North Garden house was on fire. Fortunately, we ordered two fire districts and they both came to our rescue and were able to extinguish the fire quickly. I came home to what looked like a war zone, but fortunately, the fire was contained to the roof, so the damage looked more extensive than it was.

The insurance adjuster told me to call SERVPRO® of Charlottesville. I spoke with the franchise owner, Jackson Lindsay, and immediately felt confident that I had made the right call. He explained the process and arrived with a team quickly. While Jackson inspected and assessed the damage, his team went to work tarping up the roof and boarding up the windows that were broken during the fire.

This is the restoration process the SERVPRO team used to clean and restore my home to preloss condition:

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

Call Us Today!

When your North Garden home or commercial business needs fire restoration services, SERVPRO® of Charlottesville is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on-call 24-hours a day to serve you. Call us today at 434-977-5850. We’ll clean and restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire-damaged Belongings in Charlottesville?

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration in Albemarle County.

SERVPRO® of Charlottesville has been restoring fire-damaged properties in Charlottesville and other parts of Albemarle county for years. Our technicians are trained to perform a full range of contents restoration services to restore fire-damaged belongings to preloss condition quickly and efficiently. We pretest every item before cleaning to determine the type of fire residue and the best cleaning method to use for each item.

Contents Restoration Cleaning Methods

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

Call Us Today!

When your Charlottesville home or commercial business needs fire restoration services, SERVPRO® of Charlottesville is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on-call 24-hours a day, every day of the year, and we can typically be onsite within four hours of your call. Call us today at 434-977-5850. We’ll clean and restore your fire-damaged items, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Smoke Alarm Safety Tips for Barboursville?

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Albemarle County.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), smoke alarms play an important role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. SERVPRO® of Charlottesville responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year in Barboursville, and offer these smoke alarm safety tips from the NFPA:

Here's what you need to know!

• A closed-door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. 
• Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound. 
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms
• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions yet mitigate false alarms
• When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside
• Replace all smoke alarms in your home every ten years

Call Us!

When your Barboursville home or commercial business needs fire damage restoration services, SERVPRO® of Charlottesville is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on-call 24-hours a day every day of the week and usually arrive on-site within four hours of your call. Call us today at 434-977-5850.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Dryer Fire in Charlottesville?

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration in Albemarle County.

SERVPRO® of Charlottesville responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year. This picture shows a burnt dryer vent from one of our recent restorations. The dryer vent ignited due to excess lint buildup in the dryer vent. Even though the fire was contained in the laundry room, this small fire caused excessive smoke and soot damage exposure through the rest of the house. Here are some highlights from the National Fire Protection Association report:

• In 2010-2014, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 15,970 home structure fires involving clothes dryers or washing machines each year.
• These fires caused annual averages of 13 civilian deaths, 444 civilian injuries, and $238 million in direct property damage.
• The vast majority of fires (92 percent) involved clothes dryers.
• The leading items first ignited in dryer fires were dust, fiber, or lint (26 percent of total) and clothing (26 percent), while items first ignited in washing machine fires were part of the appliance itself, including wire or cable insulation (26 percent), appliance housing or casing (24 percent), and drive belt (11 percent).

Call Us!

When your home or commercial business experiences a fire damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Charlottesville is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on-call 24-hours a day to serve you. Call us today at 434-977-5850. We’ll restore your fire damage in Charlottesville, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Tips to Put Out Fires in the Kitchen Safely in Charlottesville

2/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Charlottesville recognizes that over half of home fires start in the kitchen. Some kitchen fires start out small enough that you might be able to put them out easily. By being proactive, you can save yourself and others from fire and smoke injuries in your Charlottesville home. 

Remember that fire is fast. If you cannot contain a fire immediately, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 from outside the home.

SERVPRO of Charlottesville has these tips to offer for handling a small cooking fire:

• If the fire is on the stovetop or in a pot, put a lid on the fire to smother the flames. Turn off the burner  
• If a cloth on the stovetop is on fire, put a lid on the fire to smother the flames.  Turn off any burners  

• Do not use water on a gas fire or a grease fire. Pot lids will smother a fire. You can also use (a lot of) baking soda. Pour a box of baking soda on the fire

• If the fire is in the oven, turn off the heat. Close the oven door.    

IMPORTANT:

Never leave fire-fighting to chance. SERVPRO of Charlottesville knows that objects can be replaced.  People and pets cannot.

SERVPRO of Charlottesville is independently owned and operated. 

Fire Safety Tips for Scottsville

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Albemarle County.

NFPA Fire Safety Tips

SERVPRO® of Charlottesville has been mitigating fire damage in Scottsville and other areas in Albemarle County for over twenty years, and we know that even a small fire can cause significant damage to a home. Here are some key fire safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Watch your cooking.
  Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you must leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.
• Give space heaters space.
  Keep fixed and portable space heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn. Turn off heaters when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.
• Inspect electrical cords.
  Replace cords that are cracked, damaged, have broken plugs, or have loose connections.
• Keep candles at least one foot from anything that can burn. Blow out candles when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Make a home fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year.
• Install smoke alarms.
• Test smoke alarms.
• Install sprinklers. If you are remodeling your home, install residential fire sprinklers. They can extinguish a fire in less time than it takes for the fire department to arrive.
  

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO® of Charlottesville is ready to respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day.  Call us today at 434-977-5850. We’ll restore your fire damage in Scottsville, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Charlottesville is Independently Owned and Operated.

What to Salvage or Discard After a Fire

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

Our IICRC certified professionals can help you assess what can be restored and what is not salvageable.

Anyone experiencing a fire damage can feel overcome from the sheer immensity of sorting through their possessions.

Can these objects be salvaged and restored?

Or tossed, and replaced with new effects? How is one to know?

SERVPRO of Charlottesville is “Here to Help”!

Part of our Fire Damage Restoration Process deals with contents restoration.

Our IICRC certified professional technicians will:

• Evaluate each room with you and take inventory of all contents
• Record salvageable and non-salvageable items

Our philosophy is to restore first. But, depending on the proximity to the fire and heat:

• Some articles may be salvaged, such as documents, clothing, and some household goods.
• Other contents will need to be thrown out and replaced, such as food, cosmetics, anything plastic, medication, toiletries, and any alcohol. Fire and heat will change the chemistry of these things, causing them to be contaminated.

For more information about our Contents Claim Inventory Service, click here.

For a video demonstration on cleaning fire damaged contents with our Ultrasonic machine, click here.

Need professional help with your fire damage clean-up?

SERVPRO of Charlottesville is locally owned and operated. Call us for 24/7 Emergency Service at 434-977-5850

Top 10 Causes of House Fires

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

These winter fire hazards are all preventable.

Fires can happen year-round, but they are statistically more likely to occur in the winter.

According to the National Fire Protection Association or NFPA, these are the top causes of residential fires:

• Cooking: This is the number one cause of home fires. And the leading cause of kitchen fires is unattended cooking.
• Heaters: Half of the residential fires are reported in December, January, and February. The culprits are space heaters, fireplaces, woodstoves, and chimney fires.
• Smoking: Smoking materials, such as cigarettes, pipes, and cigars cause 5% of reported home fires, and 21% of home fire deaths.
• Dryer Vent fires: See our blog post about this common and very preventable hazard.
• Flammable chemicals: Combustible liquids are all over the house; In the kitchen, bathrooms, garage, and shed.
• Grills: Greasy grills, propane leaks, and connector hose breaks are fire hazards.
• Candles: The most common days for fires started by candles are on Christmas day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.
• Electrical: Avoid overloading electrical outlets and power boards; Replace damaged electrical cords.
• Christmas trees: Dry trees are extremely combustible and a fire disaster when near a heat source. Just for fun, check out the 9 Ways to Know that You’re a Holiday Decorating Disaster.

     10.) Computer Charging Accidents: This is a relatively new fire hazard; Heat generated from charging laptops and phones on flammable materials (cloth, paper, wood) can build up and quickly lead to a fire.

These fire hazards are ALL preventable.

For our Fire Damage Emergency Tips, click here.

For information about our Fire Damage Restoration Process, click here.

Have Questions about Fire Damage Restoration? SERVPRO of Charlottesville is locally owned and operated. We are available for Emergency Service 24/7.  Call Us Today at 434-977-5850

Fire Do’s and Don’ts: Emergency Tips

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Let us help you with your fire damage cleanup.

The unthinkable has happened. Your business or home had a fire. Now what?

You want to get started right away cleaning and sorting, but where to start? Fire damage is tricky to clean, and you can actually make things worse, without professional help.

Here are some helpful tips to get you through, until help arrives:

Do’s:

• Do keep your hands clean. Soot on your hands can spread and embed into everything, causing more damage.
• Do limit your movement in the house to prevent soot particles from stirring up and spreading.
• Do place dry, old towels and old linens on the carpet traffic areas and upholstered furniture to prevent further damage.
• Do empty the refrigerator and freezer completely, if electricity is off. Prop the doors open, to air out any odors.
• Do clean and protect chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances with a light coating of oil.
• Do wash house plants with water on both sides of the leaves.
• Do change the furnace filter, and tape double layers of cheesecloth over air vents to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

Don’ts

• Don’t attempt to wash any walls.
• Don’t attempt to clean carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Charlottesville.
• Don’t operate or clean any electrical appliances or equipment until they have been cleaned and checked by an authorized repair service. Smoke residues can be corrosive and conductive.
• Don’t send clothing with smoke residues to dry cleaners, who are inexperienced in cleaning fire-damaged garments. If it is not treated by an experienced professional, the residues and smoke odors may set in the clothing.
• Don’t use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water. This also applies to any cosmetics and medications that could 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.

For information on our fire damage restoration process, click here.

For Before and After photos of fire-damage, click here.

For a local video testimonial on our soot clean-up, click here.

Need professional help with your fire damage clean-up?

SERVPRO of Charlottesville is locally owned and operated, and is “a trusted leader in the restoration industry.” Call us for 24/7 Emergency Service at 434-977-5850

Fire Restoration Cleaning Basics

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

There’s a lot of chemistry behind determining the best way to clean a fire damage residue.

Wash. Rinse. Dry. Repeat. This is how we clean things, right? Scrub a little, let it soak, then use some ‘elbow grease’.

Fire damage presents a great variety of cleaning challenges. Smoke and soot residues from a fire can wreak havoc on all the contents, whether the contents are made of wood, ceramic, metal, paper, or natural fibers. Fire residues can literally be baked on a surface.

Different types of soot residues can exist in the same environment, making it tricky to determine the best way to clean items. In addition, the type of surface also determines the best cleaning method and products to use, in order to remove the residue. Combining the principles and elements of cleaning requires a great deal of science.

For Example:

• On what kind of surface is the residue? Soot and smoke residues are acidic and can be very corrosive, not to mention carcinogenic.
• Is the soil water-soluble? Oil-residue requires an oil-based solvent.
• Will the surface be damaged by water or a solvent?
• For an oily soot, would you wipe it? If you do, it will smear, making it worse to clean.

Chemical actions involved in determining the best way to remove a soil:   

• The pH of a residue and cleaning solution: The goal of water-based products is to return a material to a neutral pH; Most soils are slightly acidic, so test the residue pH
• Like dissolves Like: solvents for oil-based soils; water-based solution for water-based residue.
• Emulsions bridge oil-based soils with water
• Bleaching: chemical reactions from either adding or removing oxygen from the soil structure, that breaks the bond between residues and surfaces
• Enzymes digest protein soils

This is just some of the science behind identifying types of soot residues and types of surfaces from fire damage help to determine the best way to remove a soil.

Need Fire damage remediation? Call us today at 434-977-5850 for 24/7 Emergency Service.

Charlottesville Dryer Vent Fire Safety

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

Dryer vent fire? We are “Here to Help” with your fire damage.

When was the last time you cleaned your dryer vent? Many of us dismiss this task because of our busy lives, or maybe we just don’t want to bother with it; too many other pressing matters at hand, right?

Why is this important?

Lint can accumulate in and clog the vents, causing them to overheat and ignite. These types of fires can be prevented with regular dryer vent cleaning.

A clogged dryer vent recently caused a local house fire in Charlottesville. Luckily, the owners were home and took action promptly. The firefighters contained it quickly, but it still caused quite a bit of damage to the home. For more about this local news story, click here.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, “2,900 home clothes dryer fires are reported each year and cause an estimated 5 deaths, 100 injuries, and $35 million in property loss. Failure to clean the dryer (34 percent) is the leading cause of home clothes dryer fires.”

The Basics in What to Do:

• Dryerexhaust vents should be inspected and cleaned at least once a year
• Lint trap should be cleaned before and after every dryer load

SERVPRO of Charlottesville is “here to help” with your fire damage restoration.

For information about our Fire Damage Restoration Process click here.

For Fire Damage Emergency Tips click here.

For Questions about Fire Damage Repair and Restoration

Call 434-977-5850. We are “Here to Help” for 24-Hour Emergency Service

Cooking and Fire Safety Tips for Charlottesville Homes

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

If this happens to your Charlottesville kitchen, we have highly trained Fire Restoration Technicians "Here to Help."

I grew up cooking on a gas burning stove. We had to strike a match to light the stove and did not think about the fire danger involved. Our wooden home was in an older neighborhood built around 1910. No fire extinguisher. No smoke alarms.

It’s what you are accustomed to, right?

Luckily, we were very careful and sensible in the kitchen. Yet, cooking is a major cause of home fires.

Here are some safety tips that apply to everyone, including seniors:

• Never leave your stove unattended while cooking. Period.
• Keep the area around the stove clutter-free. Even a pot-holder can catch fire instantly from an electric stove. 
• Never put Anything on the stovetop, such as grocery bags or cardboard boxes. It would be too easy to accidentally turn it on.
• Do not store Anything in your oven.
• Keep the stove surface clean, especially from grease. 
• Pour hot grease into a coffee can or other heat-safe container. Then throw it away.
• Roll up your sleeves
• Keep a fire extinguisher easily accessible (and learn how to use it).

Hopefully, a fire disaster may be avoided. However, if you need us for your fire restoration, we are “Here to Help”.

For information about our Fire Damage Restoration Process click here.

For Fire Damage Emergency Tips click here.

For Questions about Fire Damage Repair and Restoration

Call 434-977-5850. We are “Here to Help” for 24-Hour Emergency Service

What is a “Puff back”?

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

Our dedicated and meticulous Charlottesville team cleaning soot-begrimed pack outs.

How can something that sounds so cute, like “Puff back”, wreak so much havoc, and cause such a greasy, sooty, smokey mess?

It should be called “Yukky, Smeary, Begrimed Backfire Blast” instead!

In a nutshell, a puff back is when greasy smoke and soot backfire into a home from an oil burning appliance such as an oil furnace, water heater, or boiler. This residue is distributed through the duct system and living space, covering everything: drapes, bedding, furniture, computers, books, art, rugs, electronics, cabinets, ceiling, walls…

 A similar phenomenon can occur from a fireplace or wood stove, where soot is released into the room, but it is not considered a “puff back.”

If this happens to you:

• Don’t attempt to clean the smoke or soot residue yourself. These stains spread easily and set quickly.
• Don’t use the furniture or walk on the carpet.
• Don’t turn on computers and other electronic devices; They can be ruined from this corrosive soot.
• This oily soot can cause health issues.

Puff backs can be prevented with furnace and chimney yearly maintenance and cleaning.

SERVPRO of Charlottesville is an IICRC Certified Firm with the proper techniques, training, products and equipment to clean everything affected by a “puff back”, or “yukky, smeary, begrimed backfire blast.”

For information on our fire/soot damage restoration process, click here.

For videos about our soot damage cleanup and restoration, click here.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today at 434-977-5850

Charlottesville/Albemarle Smoke and Soot Cleanup

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

Our Charlottesville vehicles are neatly organized and loaded with the latest high-tech equipment so that we can be “Faster to your disaster."

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. We have the smoke damage expertise, equipment, and experience to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage, and to develop a comprehensive plan of cleanup and restoration.  

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 Charlottesville will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pre-testing. 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. 

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today at 434-977-5850

Pack-Outs for Soot-Damaged Items

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Pack-out boxes with contents ready to be cleaned at our local warehouse.

After dealing with clean up and recovery from a fire in a business or home, the last thing one wants to handle is cleaning every soot-damaged item in the building.  One of our many services for fire damage and restoration is our Pack Out service. 

This can involve carefully

• Packing soot-damaged items
• Transporting them to our warehouse for storage and cleaning
• Attentive restoration using high-tech methods, such as our Ultrasonic machine(click here for video)
• Wrapping restored items in paper or bubble wrap
• Re-boxing them for delivery to the owner….Voila’!!

Our ultimate goal is to restore items to preloss condition.  However, not everything is able to be fully restored after being damaged by fire. In which case replacement is recommended.  

For Before and After photos of fire-damaged restored items, click here.

For information about our fire-damage restoration process click here

SERVPRO of Charlottesville is locally owned and operated, and is a “trusted leader in the restoration industry”.  We are available for Emergency Service 24/7.  Call us at 434-977-5850

Just Spooky Spider Web Decor? Think Again...

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

Soot webs can be spooky, call SERVPRO of Charlottesville to help clean up the visible soot and remove that lingering odor.

With Halloween right around the corner you may think this is part of the décor, but it’s not. This is an image of a phenomenon called soot webs, also referred to as soot tags. It looks like soot from a fire has settled on a spider’s web or a cob web, but its not. The webbing may look similar but these are actually charged particles carrying the soot and will cling to other charged particles to form these stringy structures. Rest assured there are no spiders lurking around these webs! We use specialty vacuums with hepa filters attached to remove them and the soot they carry. Please do not attempt to wipe these away as the soot will smear and cling to the closest solid structure available.

If you find yourself facing these call SERVPRO and remember we are here to help. 434-977-5850

Meet Our Latest Certified Fire Crew Members!

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

David and Chris have successfully completed Fire & Smoke Restoration and have already begun applying what they learned.

Congratulations to crew members Chris and David on passing their IICRC Fire and Smoke Restoration class. This important class focuses on the technical procedures for successfully completing the restoration of a fire and smoke damaged environment. Fires can be completely overwhelming. If you’ve ever been to or unfortunately had a fire you know how invasive soot can be. The damage left behind by a fire can be toxic so knowing how to remediate the scene properly is important. Often a fire scene is compromised, knowing what is safe and what is not safe is something for which SERVPRO technicians are trained. Our employees are very proud of the working knowledge they have of our industry, you can always feel free to ask our crew why we are doing something a particular way, they know their business and are happy to share their knowledge and experience. We know these situations are sometimes the worst thing that has ever happened to you, SERVPRO strives to be a source of comfort in the knowledge that when we are done, you will be coming home to a safe, clean, healthy livable space.  

Invasive and Difficult to Remove, the Smell of Nicotine can Affect the Whole Home

2/6/2019 (Permalink)

No one wants to smell a previous resident’s habits in their home.

You search internet listings for weeks. You work diligently with your real estate agent. You attend open house after open house. Finally, you found it: the perfect house. It has beautiful dark shutters. The kitchen is open and airy. There are enough bedrooms so even your youngest doesn’t have to share a room, and there is space to grow. There’s just one “but.” You step inside the door, take a deep breath, and you can’t ignore the way the smell goes right to the back of your throat. It’s a little chalky and impossible to ignore— nicotine.

Don’t give up hope. This odor may not be the kiss of death for this home. When we get a call about a nicotine odor in a home, there are a few questions that we consider. First, how long has cigarette smoke been impacting the area? Has it just been the past 3-6 months? Or longer, many years of smoking? Then we evaluate how strong the smell is and where it is concentrated. Does it permeate the air? Is it stronger on the carpets or the furniture? Can you see the staining on the walls and ceiling?

Once we can establish the extent of the damage, we begin to plan action steps for restoring the home. If you or the previous owner have already spent time and effort trying to get rid of the smell, the next question to ask is when was the last time the ductwork was cleaned. Often nicotine residue can cling to the HVAC system and a full duct cleaning could be the answer to residual odor that seems to outlast other odor removal methods.

If the ducts have been cleaned, the next question we ask about a persistent nicotine odor is, when were the walls last painted? If they have been painted since the damage occurred, remediation becomes trickier. Because nicotine odor comes from the residue that the smoke leaves, if a wall has been painted, the odor is actually trapped behind the paint and is seeping through, making it impossible to clean away the residue that is trapped behind the paint.

These two items are our biggest culprits for a persistent nicotine odor, but we have a myriad of other methods and products we use to clean nicotine residue and remove the offensive odor from your home. If you have more questions or would like to schedule an odor assessment, give us a call at 434-977-5850.

Make Sure Your Family Knows Where to Go in the Event of a Fire

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Drawing a Floor Plan is the First Step to Keeping Your Family Safe

Fire drills in school were always a great excuse to be outside and get out of class for a few moments. Now, as adults, we try to plan for the safety of our children in any way that we can think of. We are now thankful that the school has developed an evacuation plan that helps provide for our children’s safety in the event of a fire in the school. But what about a fire at home? Or a fire at work? Even though we have graduated, we are not past fire drills. Having a fire evacuation plan in place in the home and at work is an important part of keeping your family and coworkers safe in the event of a fire.  

To create your plan, bring the whole family together and create a floor plan of your home. On your floor plan, mark all exits: windows and doors. Make sure there are two escape routes marked in each room. Include, in your plan, a designated spot to meet up after you have left the house. You can use any landmark, but make sure it is far enough from the home to be safe.

Once you have a plan created, place it in a place where every family member can access it and practice the plan. You can even make this a fun family bonding experience. The most important thing is that every family member, including children and elderly family members, know what to do and will be accounted for in the event of a fire.

The National Fire Protection Agency has more information on their website as well as a floor plan template that you can print out and use to draw your evacuation plan.

Let’s Keep the Fire Under the Heart and the Lights on the Tree

12/5/2018 (Permalink)

Yikes! This tree is definitely too close to the fireplace!

At Christmastime we want to be joyous, spend time with our families, and remember that there is joy and light in life even in the darkest season of the year. However, this year please don’t let that light come from a Christmas tree fire.

While live trees are beautiful and smell amazing, they must be properly cared for to avoid creating an unintentional fire hazard. According to the National Fire Protections agency (NFPA), ensuring that your tree is not a hazard, begins before you even bring it home.

When choosing your tree, check for needles that are green and won’t fall off the branches when you touch them. This is a helpful indicator on how long ago the tree was cut. Once the tree is in your home, make sure that you are watering it properly every day. Place the tree at least 3 feet away from any heat sources, like fireplaces, radiators, or lights.

During the holiday season, be sure to be attentive of your tree, keeping it watered, turning off the lights before you go to bed and disposing of the tree immediately after Christmas or whenever the tree dries out. A dry tree can be a fire hazards even left to sit in the garage or leaning up against the outside of a home.

Be safe this holiday season and check out this resource from the NFPA for more information on Christmas tree safety.

Are You Actively Preventing a Furnace Puffback?

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

After an unexpected puffback, this fireplace was left covered in soot. Check out our Before and After Page to see what is looks like now!

In the favorite childhood movie, Mary Poppins, while walking along the rooftop, Michael looks into a roof vent and ends up with a face full of soot. Limited to a rooftop in fictional London, this surprise puff is comical and harmless. However, when your fireplace or furnace creates a puff of soot inside your home, often called a puffback, suddenly it creates a very real, very sooty problem.

When a puffback occurs, it’s hard to ignore.  It can be loud, with a distinctive wuff sound and the resulting soot and oily residue covers every surface it can reach. It’s a frustrating experience and we most often see them happening around this time of year when fireplaces, furnaces and woodburning stoves are used for the first time after sitting dormant all summer.

In a fireplace or woodstove with a chimney, a puffback is most often caused by a problem in the chimney. For example, if there is a buildup of ash and leftover residue clumped in the chimney, this blockage can create an uneven balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide. As you add kindling and wood, the flame has plenty of fuel, but the oxygen it needs to burn is stuck above the chimney blockage. The fire will eventually correct this imbalance by sucking in a large amount of oxygen all at once, igniting the excess fuel in the fireplace and the buildup in the chimney all at once. The force of this ignition pushes ash and soot out of the fireplace and can cover the whole room in a dark residue.

In a furnace, the cause can be similar, a furnace can have a buildup of excess fuel, oil, even dirt or dust in the ignition chamber. This buildup blocks oxygen from reaching the combustion chamber and can be ignited in the same way a chimney buildup can. Therefore, when the ignition flame in a furnace pulls in the rush of oxygen it needs to burn, the resulting powerful expulsion of soot and oil can come out of the vents of the furnace.

As messy and unpleasant as this occurrence is, it is thankfully easily prevented. Routine chimney and furnace maintenance can usually prevent a puffback before they happen.

Maximize the Effectiveness of Your Fire Extinguisher in a House Fire

11/14/2018 (Permalink)

Use a portable fire extinguisher to create an evacuation path.

Fire prevention is so important, but it can only go so far and sometimes a fire happens despite our best intentions. In this situation, do you know where your nearest fire extinguisher is? Or how and if you should you use it?

Fire extinguishers are kind of like that antique porcelain figurine that you inherited. You know you definitely can’t get rid of it, but you don’t really want to look at it. However, unlike that figurine, your fire extinguisher will come in handy in the event of an emergency. Before an emergency strikes, you should have a fire extinguisher in an accessible location, where fires are likely to start, like the kitchen or garage. You should also have a fire extinguisher on each floor of your home. Once you have them placed you should also routinely check to make sure they are up to date.

Now, you have a fire extinguisher, awesome. But unless you plan to throw the whole canister at the fire and hope that it works, you will also need to know how and when to use it. Compared to the size of many house and business fires, portable fire extinguishers are insignificantly small. As such, they are meant to be used to either create an evacuation path or put out very small fires before they have had a chance to get going. A fire that is small enough to be contained using a fire extinguisher will be confined to one area and will not have begun spreading beyond the point of origin.

In the event of a fire, you should always begin by sounding the fire alarm and calling the fire department. Then you should identify your evacuation path. It’s possible that the flames could flare up when you spray the extinguisher, so you want to make sure you have a place to run if this should happen.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends using the P.A.S.S. system to use a fire extinguisher. First (P), pull the pin to break the tamper seal. Second (A), aim the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire. Third (S), squeeze the handle, this releases the extinguishing foam. Last (S), sweep the nozzle back and forth at the base of the fire.  These four simple steps cover the mechanics of operating a fire extinguisher.

Always remember to be aware of your evacuation route when trying to extinguish a fire and be ready to vacate the area should the situation escalate. You can find more tips and explanations on this topic on OSHA’s website.

Prevent Your Thanksgiving Dinner from Going Up In Flames

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

Photo courtesy of Isaac Wedin

As Thanksgiving approaches we are all getting excited about the holiday season. Thanksgiving helps us remember to be thankful for the blessings that we’ve received. One blessing in particular is easy to be thankful for: the delicious turkey that is part of this fall tradition. The turkey is the crown jewel of any Thanksgiving meal and the challenge of cooking the bird to perfection is part of the glory. However, as you consider how you might cook your turkey this year, keep safety in mind.

Turkey fryers are a popular method as they provide a quicker alternative to roasting your bird for hours in the oven, and a tasty result. However, turkey fryer fires are exceedingly common and we here at SERVPRO of Charlottesville want to help you understand the dangers and how to avoid disasters when it comes to fryer protocol.

Let’s talk about set up first. You need to completely thaw your turkey. Any ice, or crystals left inside a not-quite-thawed turkey will spark and splatter when they touch the hot oil which can quickly cause a fire. While your bird is thawing, you will want to choose an adequate spot for your fryer. It should be outside and well away from your home or any other flammable materials. This spot should also be sturdy and level. Unfortunately, the design of turkey fryers is top heavy and as such they can easily topple over and start a fire. To help reduce your fryer’s temptation to nose dive, place it on a level surface.

Once your fryer is set up, gather a few precautionary materials. You will definitely want a fire extinguisher handy. Pouring water on a grease fire will only expand the fire, so you will need a fire extinguisher that is up to date and ready for use. Additionally, you should grab a few pot holders to protect your hands and arms from contact burns with the fryer. Inside the fryer itself you should be using a high-quality oil with a high smoke point. To fry the turkey properly, this oil needs to be extremely hot and this oil will help prevent flare-ups and reduce fire hazards.

As you fry your turkey there are only a few things left to remember. Be aware of how much oil you need, overfilling the oil can add an extra risk that it will spill, overflow or splatter, causing a fire. Check the weather and be aware of precipitation as snow or rain coming into contact with the oil can cause splattering. The fryer should never be left unattended so have at least two people designated to keep an eye on the turkey. This practice is helpful in case there is an accident, you will have two pairs of hands ready to jump into action. You’ll also want to keep any children and pets away from the fryer. This suggestion may sound obvious, especially after I’ve just explained all the ways that a turkey fryer can cause small explosions. But it’s important to make sure that children understand the danger that this appliance represents and pets can easily be drawn towards the tantalizing smell.

Lastly, if you haven’t used a turkey fryer before, it’s a great idea to test your process. Thanksgiving can be a joyous but also stressful day. If part of the frying process takes longer than you anticipate, it’s tempting to cut corners to make sure dinner is served on time. Practice your frying skills to minimize any surprises and practice your safety measures. Let’s be honest, your family won’t complain about having deep fried turkey twice in one month.

Smoke Alarms Only Save Lives When They are Used Correctly

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

Visit https://www.usfa.fema.gov/ for more information

Every single time that I cook pancakes, the smoke alarm goes off. Go ahead, laugh. It’s comical. And it probably means that I’m terrible at making pancakes. But with this kind of consistency, it could also mean that I don’t have the proper type of smoke alarm or that it’s not in the correct place. Is it this way in your home? Are you certain that you have the correct alarms and that they are correctly placed? The U.S Fire Administration (USFA) has provided smoke alarm guidelines for use in homes.

Let’s start with which kind of smoke alarm you should have. There are two distinct kinds of alarms with either ionization or photoelectric sensors. Because these alarms sense different kinds of fires, the USFA recommends that a home has both kinds of sensors present. This could mean buying two different smoke alarms or simply buying one dual-sensor alarm. Just having the correct alarm isn’t enough, though. It also has to be placed correctly. Smoke alarms should be placed near all sleeping areas as well as inside and outside of the doors to sleeping areas, as closed doors can block or slow the spread of smoke.  Alarms should also be placed on every floor of a home, including the basement. Because it could be difficult to hear a smoke alarm that is sounding in the basement from a second-floor bedroom, the USFA also recommends that you have smoke alarms that are connected, so that if one sounds they all do.

Even if your smoke alarms are the correct kind and are correctly placed, they still must be maintained. You should check your smoke alarms once a month by pressing the test button. At least once a year you should also change the battery and every ten years the smoke alarm should be replaced.

This may start to sound like a lot of work, but the USFA has released a recent study that three out of five deaths that occurred in a home fire were in a home that did not have a working smoke detector. Additionally, with correctly placed and working detectors the chance of dying in a home fire is reduced by half!

Smoke detectors are an important preventative measure and the Department of Fire Rescue in Albemarle wants to make sure there are smoke detectors in every home. As such, they participate in a Smoke Detector Program which allows any home that may not be able to afford a smoke alarm to request a free smoke alarm. You can apply for this program at www.ACFireRescue.org

I hope these tips help make your home safer and encourage you to continue making excellent pancakes and pan seared steaks without fear of upsetting your smoke alarm.

Stay Safe this Summer at the Family BBQ

7/11/2018 (Permalink)

Find more information at www.nfpa.org/grilling

Recently, while at a local park I was walking down the path looking for an open grill to toast some particularly fluffy marshmallows. Each grill I checked was already in use, full of hot dogs, hamburgers, crabs, corn, and foiled wrapped potatoes. As I discovered a new delicacy with each grill, I had two realizations. The first one was that my marshmallows were probably going to go untoasted because it looked like there were no grills left. The second was that of all of these families, I doubted that they were all fully aware and fully adhering to the safety guidelines for grilling. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, on average, 16,600 people per year visit the emergency room because of injuries involving grills. With this in mind, SERVPRO of Charlottesville would like to take some webspace today to refresh or reintroduce grill safety to help keep your home and your family safe!

Before you use your gas grill you should check for leaks and breaks in the line. Once you’re certain the grill is safe to use, move your grill away from your home or any decks or other structures that could be flammable. Low hanging tree branches or overhangs can be especially hazardous. Make sure that the grill is on a stable, flat surface. Additionally, in this step, be sure that children and pets are kept away from the grilling area. Now that your grilling space is safe, open up the grill and make sure that the inside is clean. Use a grill brush if necessary to remove grease buildup on the grate of the grill. While your grill is in use, never leave it unattended and keep a fire extinguisher on hand. With these few tips in mind, we should have a fun and safe summer!

Charlottesville Residence: Are You Prepared?

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

2018 National Seasonal Preparedness Messaging Calendar

Ready.gov created the 2018 National Seasonal Preparedness Messaging Calendar which outlines important points and information to keep preparedness as a focus all year. The piece highlights general preparedness key points as well as key preparedness points for each season. Having a plan, knowing how to respond, and being prepared during an emergency increase your chances of making it through safe and unharmed. So what are you doing to insure that you and your family are ready for whatever happens?  Do not wait until it is to late to be prepared.  Start preparing today!  Ready.gov can help you do so.

For the month of May:  Wildfire Community Preparedness Day - May 5th

#WildfireSafety

#SummerSafety

#WildfirePrepDay

To learn more, follow the link below:

https://www.ready.gov/calendar

Question #4 For Water & Fire Damages

1/3/2018 (Permalink)

Things we ask when you call in a water or fire loss.

Question #4 - Who is your insurance carrier?

We work with many different insurance carriers in our line of work.  Part of working with them is to make sure we are communicating with the assigned agent and/or adjuster in detail throughout the mitigation process as well as creating the job file in the format they prefer to see it in.  By doing so, the job process is able to run smoother which means the customer is able to get their life back to normal quicker.  Even if you are undecided on whether you will be filing a claim or not, it is still helpful for us to know who your insurance carrier is so we are able to have every aspect of the job prepared the way they prefer to have it in the event you do indeed decide to proceed with a claim. 

Question #3 For Fire Damage Customers

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

Experiencing a fire damage? Here are some questions we will ask when you call on us to remediate.

It is very common when responding to a fire damage cleanup, to also have water damage cleanup present as water is a common method used to put out the fire.  By knowing the fire was extinguished by water, we are able to ensure that our responding crew arrives prepared with water mitigation equipment as well.

Another way to extinguish a fire is by using a fire extinguisher.  Did you know that there are several different types of fire extinguishers?  These different types include:  Water, Foam, Powder, Carbon Dioxide (CO2), and Wet Chemical.  The type of fire extinguisher used will play a role in the method of cleanup that our crews will be performing.    

Check back on our blog page in January when we reveal another question asked when receiving a fire loss and why.

Christmas Tree Safety Tips: Eliminating Fire Hazards

11/27/2017 (Permalink)

Follow these Christmas Tree fire safety tips to stay safe this holiday season. Merry Christmas from SERVPRO of Charlottesville!

The holidays are quickly approaching which means many people are going to start picking out their Christmas trees, whether live or artificial. In the midst of all the excitement associated with this annual tradition, it’s important to keep safety a priority and to be aware of some practical tips to ensure you are minimizing the risk of creating a fire hazard.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Christmas tree fires are uncommon but when they do occur they are more likely to be severe. A stat from the NFPA website states between 2011-2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 200 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. These fires caused an average of 6 deaths, 16 injuries, and $14.8 million in direct property damage annually. By following the below tips offered by the NFPA, you can ensure you are taking the necessary actions to eliminate the potential for a fire hazard.

Choosing your tree

• Pick a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

Placing the tree

• Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2” from the base of the trunk.
• Make sure the tree is at least 3 feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
• Add water to the tree stand and it’s recommended to add water daily.

Lighting the Tree

• Use lights that have a label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.
• Never use lit candles to decorate the tree
• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

After Christmas

• Get rid of the tree after Christmas. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home. Check with your local community to find a recycling program. Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

The below link shows how quickly a Christmas tree fire can take off

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQT8yOYJKxQ

Question #2 For Fire Damage Customers

11/1/2017 (Permalink)

Questions asked by SERVPRO of Charlottesville when receiving a fire loss.

Just as there are different methods to putting out a fire, based on the type of fire, there are also different methods to cleaning up fire damage.  Knowing the source of the fire is beneficial in determining what kind of fire clean up we will be re-mediating.  Below is a list of different types of fire damage:

• Wet Smoke – Plastics and Synthetics; Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary.
• Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood; Fast burning, high temperatures, dry, powdery, non-smeary residues.
• Protein – Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
• Fuel Oil Soot – Furnace Puff Backs.
• Other Types – Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue.

Check back in December when we discuss our reason behind asking our 3rd fire loss question.

Questions Asked For a Fire Loss & Why

9/20/2017 (Permalink)

Questions asked by SERVPRO of Charlottesville when receiving a fire loss.

When our office receives a call regarding a fire loss, there is a list of questions that must be asked to get a better idea of how extensive the damage is.  This is the first of a series of blogs to come with the breakdown of each question we ask and why it is we ask it. 

Question #1 – Has the Fire Marshal cleared the site?

Two common reasons a Fire Marshal may have the building inaccessible are structure stability and investigation of the source.  If the fire was extensive enough, the structure of the building may now be deemed unstable and hazardous to enter.  The second reason would be if the Fire Marshal needs to investigate the source of the fire.  If an investigation is taking place, typically no one is allowed into the structure.  This is to prevent potential tampering of evidence prior to discovering the cause.  However, in some cases the area the fire started may be blocked off and the rest of the structure is made accessible.   By knowing this information, we are able to know whether or not we can schedule for a Production Manager to come out immediately or if/when the assessment can be scheduled.

Check back in November when we discuss a second question we ask customers that have a fire loss.