There Was a Fire in My Cleveland Home, Now What?

8/4/2023 (Permalink)

Your local SERVPRO is here with some tips on what to do after a fire. The first thing you should do is call SERVPRO.

A fire in your Shaker Heights home can have both physical and emotional damage. You may be confused and unsure of what to do following a fire event. Your local SERVPRO is here with some tips on what to do after a fire. The first thing you should do is call SERVPRO. We have a 24/7 response with immediate board up / tarp up service available.

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

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

Now that you have determined it is safe, here is what you can do:

• 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 a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change the HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

There are equal amount of things that you should not such as:

• 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 the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Do not forget the first tip, to call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast when you experience a fire. Call us today at (216) 464-4498 or visit our Website for all of your fire damage needs. We are Here to Help!

How to Prevent Fires in Your Valley View Home

5/15/2023 (Permalink)

House fires can start for many reasons. It is important to know some of the ways house fires can start so you know how to prevent them!

House fires can start for many reasons. It is important to know some of the ways house fires can start so you know how to prevent them! Below is a list of 8 ways fires can start in your Bratenahl home.

• Cooking accidents: Unattended cooking is one of the leading causes of house fires. Grease fires, food left on the stove too long, and other cooking mishaps can quickly lead to a fire. 
• Electrical problems: Faulty wiring, overloaded outlets, and other electrical issues can cause sparks that ignite a fire. 
• Smoking: Cigarettes, cigars, and pipes can easily start a fire if not properly extinguished. 
• Candles: Unattended candles can easily start a fire if left too close to combustible materials such as curtains or furniture. 
• Heating equipment: Space heaters, furnaces, and other heating equipment can cause fires if not properly maintained. 
• Children playing with matches or lighters: Children should never be allowed to play with matches or lighters, as they can easily start a fire. 
• Dryers: Clogged dryer vents can cause lint to build up and ignite a fire. 
• Fireplaces: Improperly maintained fireplaces can cause sparks that ignite a fire.

Make sure to stay on the lookout for these things in your University Heights home. If you do experience a fire in your home, SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast have the expertise and equipment to restore your property to “Like it never even happened.” For immediate assistance call (216) 464-4498 or visit our Website for more information. 

What’s so Bad about Leaving a Candle Unattended?

3/17/2023 (Permalink)

Protect your family from a fire today by teaching the importance of candle safety.

How bad can a candle be? We have all used them for birthdays, aesthetics, and to see in the dark since the dawn of time. However, we must assume the responsibility of an open flame within our homes. Let’s check out some candle safety tips from our friends at the NFPA. 

‘Candle with Care’

• Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep
• Keep candles at least 1 foot (30 centimeters) away from anything that can burn 

If you do burn candles, make sure that you... 

• Use candle holders that are sturdy, and won’t tip over easily
• Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface
• Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame Don’t burn a candle all the way down — put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container
• Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home
• Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage, never use candles

Candles and Kids 

• Never leave a child alone in a room with a burning candle
• Keep matches and lighters up high and out of children’s reach, in a locked cabinet.

On average, nearly 20 home fires caused by candles are reported every day across the United States with Christmas being the peak day for candle fires. Protect your family from a fire today by teaching the importance of candle safety. If you or someone you know experiences the tragedy of a home fire, contact SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at (216)-464-4498 or visit our website for more information! 

Best Ways to Prevent Fire Damage at your Beachwood Business

8/3/2022 (Permalink)

Having a fire occur at your Beachwood business can be devastating, but there are some steps we can take to stop this from affecting your business.

Having a fire occur at your Beachwood business can be devastating, but there are some steps we can take to stop this from affecting your business.

The most common business that would be for a fire to occur is a restaurant. Luckily, there are some ways to keep our restaurants safe from a fire happening that is out of our control:

• Use fire-retardant furniture, drapes, accessories, etc.
• Install a fire barrier between the kitchen and the rest of the restaurant.
• Fire Alarm and smoke detector in all enclosed rooms.
• Refrigerant leak detection system installation.
• Equipment with automatic extinguishing systems.
• Establish a regular inspection system for all kitchen equipment.

SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast is a leader in fire and water cleanup and restoration.

We understand that if you have experienced a disaster, you need someone local to Bratenahl, Newburgh Heights, and Garfield Heights. Call us at any time at (216) 464-4498.

Kitchen Fire Safety in Beachwood, OH

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

To prevent kitchen fires, it is first important to know what causes them!

To prevent kitchen fires, it is first important to know what causes them! There are many different ways a fire can start in the kitchen. Some of those ways are listed below:

• Leaving flammable objects near gas stove
• Leaving cooking food unattended
• Leaving turned on oven unattended
• Putting flammable objects in the microwave

Here are a couple of more ways to practice kitchen safety from sanjoseca.gov:

• Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove. This way, they cannot be bumped into, and children cannot grab them.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Make sure you have the correct type of extinguisher and know how to effectively use it.
• Keep cooking equipment clean. Crumbs in a toaster, built-up grease on the stovetop, and excess dust behind your appliances are fire hazards.

SERVPRO of of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast is a leader in fire and water cleanup and restoration, and we serve the communities of Pepper Pike, Mayfield Heights, and Northeast Cleveland.

Call us at any time, day, or night at (216) 932-4498 or visit our Website. We are always Here to Help!

Prevent A Dryer Fire in your Shaker Heights Home

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

According to the US Fire Administration, “Failure to clean the dryer (34 percent) us the leading cause of home clothes dryer fires.”

Laundry is part of our weekly routine, and let’s face it – it can be a monotonous task. This brings us to the question… When is the last time you thoroughly cleaned your dryer?

According to the US Fire Administration, “Failure to clean the dryer (34 percent) us the leading cause of home clothes dryer fires.” SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast has seen this type of loss before, and it is usually a preventable one.

Here are 9 tips from Erie Insurance on how to prevent a dryer fire in your home:

1. Clean out the lint
2. Install with care
3. Clear out combustibles
4. Opt for a solid metal dryer duct
5. Read tags
6. Exercise Extra Caution with flammable liquids
7. Use your clothes to diagnose problems
8. Don’t dry and dash
9. Give the outdoor vent a peek

Should you find yourself in a dryer fire predicament, SERVPRO Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast is Here to Help. Our professionals are highly trained and use specialized equipment to properly restore your home to preloss condition.

We’ll even work with directly with your insurance company and provide an itemized loss inventory and pictures of important items for claims purposes.

So, next time you throw a load in, remember these tips! If you need assistance with any fire damage in your South Euclid or Mayfield Heights home, we can be reached 24/7 at 216-464-4498.

3 Ways to Recover After a Housefire in Beachwood

2/6/2022 (Permalink)

A fire in your home can cause serious damage. Your home and many of the things in your home may be badly damaged by flames, heat, smoke, and water.

According to FEMA, a fire will change your life in many ways. Knowing where to begin and who can help you is important. A fire in your home can cause serious damage. Your home and many of the things in your home may be badly damaged by flames, heat, smoke, and water. You will find things not damaged by the fire may still be ruined by smoke and may be soggy with water used to put out the fire. Anything you want to save, or reuse will need to be carefully cleaned. That is where SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast comes in.

What to Do After a Fire

Below are things that can help guide you on what to do after a fire.

• Contact your insurance agent. Contact your insurance company right away and ask them what to do first.
• Take care of yourself and family. Contact your local disaster relief service, such as the ARC or the Salvation Army.
• Help your pets. If you have pets, find, and comfort them.

SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast understands that you need a reputable, reliable company that you can count on 24/7.

Should you reside in the Cleveland Heights, Valley View or Pepper Pike area, you can call us at any time: (216) 932-4498 or visit our Website. We are always Here to Help!

Are Your South Euclid Smoke Detectors in Working Order?

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month.

You hear it all the time – “test your smoke detectors!” or “replace your smoke detector batteries!” But, do you really abide by these recommendations? You should.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month and batteries should be replaced at least once or twice a year. We suggest replacing batteries in the spring and then again in the fall. Spring ahead – Change your smoke detector batteries! Fall back – Change them again!

Just assuming your smoke detectors are working properly could very well lead to a dangerous situation. Protect your family and your property the best you can by following these simple steps each month:

- Give your family members a heads up that you’ll be testing the alarm.

- Have a family member stand at the furthest point away from the alarm in your home to make sure it can be heard.

- Press and hold the test button on the smoke detector. If it sounds weak, it’s time to replace the batteries.

For more information on this topic, check out Everything You Need to Know About Smoke Detectors by our friends at American Family Insurance.

Unfortunately, taking the proper safety precautions cannot necessarily prevent a fire from happening. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast is close by and ready to respond to any smoke or fire damage emergency.

We clean and restore your property using specialized equipment and cleaning techniques. Our “restore first” mentality reduces interruption and gets you back to your life as quickly as possible.

If you have any questions about fire, smoke or soot damage, contact us at 216-464-4498 or visit our fire damage webpage. Our team of professionals is always Here to Help the communities of Pepper Pike, Richmond Heights, South Euclid and beyond!

Fire Extinguisher Tips for Your Shaker Heights Home

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

Winter is a great time to review how and when to properly use a fire extinguisher.

Winter is a great time to review how and when to properly use a fire extinguisher. Most importantly, put the safety of you and your family first. You should only use a fire extinguisher if you feel confident in doing so. If you don't feel confident, evacuate your home and call 911. Fire extinguishers should only be used if the following are true:

• Everyone has left (or is in the process of leaving) the building
• The fire department has been called
• The fire is small and not spreading, with minimal smoke
• Your back is to an exit you can use quickly

Not all fire extinguishers work on every fire. The National Fire Protection Association recommends a multipurpose device that is large enough to put out a small fire, but not so large or heavy that it can’t be handled. It’s crucial to review the instructions yearly and know how to properly use your specific model

If you experience a fire in your Shaker Heights home, give SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast a call. We are dedicated to responding immediately when you need help with fire or water damage. We also serve the communities of Cuyahoga Heights, Brooklyn Heights, Pepper Pike, and surrounding areas.

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, we offer 24-hour emergency service. If you have any questions or need help with fire, smoke, or soot damage, give us a call (216) 464-4498, or visit our Website!

Summer BBQ Safety Tips for East Cleveland

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

The weather is starting to warm up here in Garfield Heights and the smell of BBQ is in the air. Before you roll out your trusty grill for the season, remember these 5 simple tips to prevent any fire damage to your Lyndhurst home:

1. Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from the house and ensure it is located on a flat, level surface.
2. Keep a fire extinguisher within a couple of steps of the grill
3. Always clean the grill after use and check for gas leaks
4. Keep decorations (hanging baskets, umbrellas, etc.) away from the grill
5. Keep a spray bottle of water close while using the grill

You can see more grilling safety tips at the National Fire Protection Association website here https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Seasonal-fire-causes/Grilling.

If you experience damage to your Beachwood home or commercial property, call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at 216-464-4498 and we’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

The Dos and Don’ts of Fire Damage in Your South Euclid Home

5/15/2021 (Permalink)

DO keep hands and feet clean to not further spread soot throughout your Newburgh Heights home and onto furniture, carpet, walls, and woodwork.

DO lay clean towels or old linens down on carpet or rugs to walk on as to not spread soot further.

DO empty fridge and freezer if electricity is off, and prop doors open.

DO change your HVAC filter.

DO coat chrome in your Pepper Pike home with petroleum jelly to protect it from soot.

DON’T attempt to wash/paint any surfaces or deep clean any carpets in your Richmond Heights home without contacting SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast first to ensure safety.

DON’T attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been near the fire or water, including the ceiling fan. Wires may have been damaged and could cause electrocution.

DON’T consume any canned/packaged food or beverage that was stored near fire or water.

DON’T send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner to remove smoke odor, as this may set in the odor even more. 

For all fire damage emergencies, call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at 216-464-4498 and we’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

Spring into Spring Safety Tips for Your Newburgh Heights Home

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

With the days getting longer and the weather starting to warm up, it is an important time to review Spring Safety Tips for inside and around your Lyndhurst home!

Now that there are days that it might be warm enough to grill, be sure to check the potentially dangerous parts of your grill before using. These can include your propane tank, your hose, and everything in between. It is also extremely important to make sure that your grill is set up a safe distance from your home, in an open space, and with nothing flammable nearby. Grills should not be used in an enclosed space, as this can be a fire hazard and a carbon monoxide safety hazard. Additionally, it is essential that you clean your grill before and after use to avoid potential fire hazards.

Outdoor firepits are also of increased use starting in the spring. As fun as they can be, they still pose a risk for fire hazards! Be sure to never leave a young child unattended anywhere near a lit fire pit, as this can be extremely dangerous. It may be smart to avoid using leaves, pinecones and other items that can break into small particles resulting in hot floating embers in the air. It may also be smart to always keep a bucket of water near the fire pit.  

Be sure to test smoke alarms and get your chimneys inspected as part of your spring cleaning as well to keep them up to date. If you do suffer any fire damage this coming spring, call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at 216-464-4498. We are ready for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and service areas including, but not limited to Beachwood, University Heights, and Richmond Heights. And we will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Clothes Dryer Fire Safety in Your Brooklyn Heights Home

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

One of the most common causes of house fires is also one of the most preventable. According to the US Fire Administration, clothes dryers force hot air through a turning drum. Lint, which is accumulated from wet clothes tumbling in the dryer, is captured by the filter, or carried through the vent system. This accumulation of lint can lead to reduced airflow and become a potential fire hazard. To prevent this, here are some simple Do’s and Don’ts in clothes dryer fire safety for your Lyndhurst home:

-DO have your clothes dryer installed by a professional

-DO read manufacturers’ instructions and warnings that come with new dryers

-DO clean the lint filter before and after each load of laundry

-DO clean the lint filter with a nylon brush every 6 months

-DO clean the lint out of the vent pipe every 3 months

-DO inspect the venting system behind the dryer to ensure it is not damaged or restricted

-DO make sure nests of small animals and insects are not blocking the outside vent regularly

-DO keep the area around the clothes dryer free of items that can burn

-DON’T use a clothes dryer without a lint filter or with a lint filter that is damaged or clogged

-DON’T overload the dryer with too many clothes

-DON’T dry anything containing materials such as foam, rubber, or plastic

-DON’T dry anything with instructions that state “dry away from heat”

-DON’T dry items that have encounter anything flammable (alcohol, oils, gasoline, etc.)

-DON’T leave a dryer running if you leave home or when you go to sleep.

For more information, visit: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/clothes_dryers.html

For any large loss due to fires, call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at 216-464-4498. We service the Cleveland area including, but not limited to Valley View, Mayfield Heights, and Beachwood. We will make it "Like it never even happened."®

Put A Freeze on Winter Fires in Your Beachwood Home

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there is an increased risk of indoor fires during the winter months. Here are some ways to mitigate this risk:

 -Only plug in one heat-producing appliance into an outlet at a time.

-Do not use an extension cord with a heat-producing appliance.

-Get your chimney and vents professionally cleaned every year.

-Keep cooled ashes outside at least 10 feet from your home in a covered metal container.

-Keep candles 12 inches away from anything that burns and consider switching to battery-operated candles instead.

-If additional wall outlets are needed, have an electrician come and install them.

-Ensure that you are using light bulbs that match the wattage that is recommended on the fixture.

-Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet from any heating sources. 

For more information: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Seasonal-fire-causes/Put-A-Freeze-on-Winter-Fires 

If you have suffered from any fire damage this winter, call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at 216-464-4498. Our services are available in the Cleveland area including, but not limited to Pepper Pike, Richmond Heights, and Lyndhurst. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and we’ll make it "Like it never even happened."®

Fireplace Dos and Don’ts for Your Newburgh Heights Home

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Fireplaces are one of the most used heating appliances during the cold winter months. However, they must be upkept to minimize their potential risk of fire. Weather.com informs us of the Dos and Don’ts of wood-burning and gas fireplaces.

 Wood-Burning Fireplace Dos

-DO get your chimney inspected for any buildup or damage by a professional prior to lighting your first fire of the season.

-DO make sure the flue is open before lighting a fire.

-DO leave the glass fire screen closed when the fireplace is in use.

-DO use a fireplace gate.

-DO clean the firebox once a week.

-DO make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the house or going to sleep to prevent house fires.

Wood-Burning Fireplace Don’ts

-DON’T leave flammable objects near the fireplace while it is lit.

-DON’T leave children or pets unattended around a lit fire

-DON’T use gasoline to start a fire.

-DON’T use green branches and leaves to start a fire. These can cause more smoke than fire itself.

Gas Fireplace Dos

-DO get your chimney inspected for proper venting of gas fumes by a professional prior to lighting your first fire of the season.

-DO ensure you have a screen or secondary glass barrier on your fireplace, as the single class barrier can get extremely hot and burn you.

-DO keep flammable objects away from fireplace.

Gas Fireplace Don’ts

-DON’T close the flue when the fireplace is in use.

-DON’T leave the fireplace unattended when it is on.

-DON’T leave the fireplace on when you leave the house or go to sleep, although it is okay if the pilot light remains on.

For more Dos and Don’ts of fire and heating in your home: https://weather.com/safety/winter/news/2020-01-22-fire-heat-your-home-dos-donts

Should you have any mishaps, call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at 216-464-4498 and we’ll make it "Like it never even happened."® We extend our services to the Cleveland area including, but not limited to Shaker Heights, University Heights, and Northeast Cleveland. 

Summer Grilling Safety Tips to Apply at Your Shaker Heights Home

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Be sure to grill safely at your Beachwood home as the summer winds down with these quick tips from the National Fire Protection Association!

-Check gas grill hoses for leaks.

-Keep children away from grills.

-Do not grill in an enclosed space, including in the house or in the garage.

-Keep the grill two feet away from deck, branches, houses, and outdoor equipment.

-Remove all grease and fat build up on your grill and in the trays below it.

-If you are using a charcoal grill, be sure to let the coal completely cool down before disposing of them in the South Euclid area. 

-If you are using a propane grill and smell gas while cooking, move far away from the grill and call the Cleveland Heights fire department immediately. Do not attempt to move the grill.

-If the flame goes out while using a propane grill, turn the grill and gas completely off and wait at least 5 minutes before re-lighting.

For more information or for any and all fire restoration needs, call your local SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at 216-464-4498 and we’ll make “Like it never even happened.”

10 Fire Summer Safety Tips to Protect Your Cuyahoga Heights Homes

5/16/2020 (Permalink)

Here are 10 tips to ensure fire safety in your Brooklyn Heights home while you enjoy your summer plans, according to the United States Fire Administration:

1. Build campfires at least 10 feet away from homes and at least 25 feet away from tents, plants, and overhanging branches.

2. Do not set off your own fireworks or sparklers, as these can reach up to over 1000 degrees Fahrenheit and can result in third-degree burns. If you would like to see fireworks, go to a public showing produced by experts.

3. Make sure to only use grills outdoors. Using them indoors can cause house fires or carbon monoxide poisoning. Maintain a three foot safety zone around your grill that will keep children, pets, and your Newburgh Heights home safe.

4. Only use grills on the ground floor. Using them on porches and balconies leads to a higher risk for house fires.

5. Keep a three foot safety zone around your grill, maintaining the safety of children, pets, and the house.

6. Open your gas grill before lighting.

7. Do not walk away from your lit grill, keep an eye on it at all times to prevent fires.

8. Clean your grill after each use, removing grease that has the potential to start a fire.

9. Place coals from your grill in a metal with a lid once they have cooled.

10. Wear short sleeves or roll them up and use long-handled barbecue tools while cooking on the grill.

If you have suffered damage from a fire or other disaster at your Cleveland home or business, call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at 216-464-4498.

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/summer.html

Happy Employee Appreciation Day from SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

Celebrate Employee Appreciation Day on Friday March 3rd, 2023 by enforcing a Fire Safety Plan! Having an escape plan set in place allows each member to know where to go and what to do in case of a fire. To aid in putting together a safety plan for your Beachwood office, answer these four main questions, based on information from Ready.gov:

1. How will everyone receive emergency alerts?
2. What is the shelter plan?
3. What is the evacuation route?
4. What is the communication plan?

It is also important to install and regularly test smoke alarms. Having these in the office will increase chances of a successful escape. Alarms should be installed on each floor of any office building and their batteries should be assessed monthly. For those with visual or auditory impairments, it is important that all fire alarms have sound AND light to ensure the safety of each and every worker.

Other things to keep in mind:

1. Make digital copies of important files.
2. Install automatic sprinklers on each floor of your Brooklyn Heights office building.
3. Call your local Cleveland area fire department to receive more information on safety protocols, use of fire extinguishers, and other training techniques.

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at 216-464-4498.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup for Your Northeast Cleveland Home

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting to get your Shaker Heights home back up to par. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at 216-464-4498 24/7. 

How to Protect Your University Heights Home from a Winter Home Fire

1/5/2020 (Permalink)

According to the US Fire Administration (https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/heating.html)

• 890 people die in winter home fires each year.
• $2 billion in property loss occurs each year from winter home fires.
• Winter home fires account for only 8 percent of the total number of fires in the U.S., but result in 30 percent of all fire deaths.
• Cooking is the leading cause of all winter home fires.
• A heat source too close to combustibles is the leading factor contributing to the start of a winter home fire (15 percent).
• 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. is the most common time for winter home fires.

Don’t let your Shaker Heights home become a statistic. Follow these tips to help prevent home fires:

• Use a metal or glass fireplace screen to keep sparks from hitting nearby carpets or furniture.
• Keep kindling, paper, and décor away from fireplaces and wood stoves.
• Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn - including furniture, blankets, curtains, and paper products
• Choose space heaters that turn off automatically if they tip over.
• Purchase and use only space heaters that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory.

If ever you find yourself in a situation that requires assistance after a home fire, SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast is here for you 24/7. We extend our services throughout the Cleveland area including, but not limited to Shaker Heights, Lyndhurst, and Brooklyn Heights. Please call us at 216-464-4498.

Top Tips for Fire Safety in the Cleveland Heights Area

1/5/2020 (Permalink)

One of the scariest events imaginable is a fire in your Bratenahl home. We all want to protect our families and now is a good time to remind everyone of a few tips provided by the American Red Cross (https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire.html)

Top Tips for Fire Safety

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your Newburgh Heights home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
• Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, change the batteries.
• Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.
• If a fire occurs in your South Euclid home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone.

As we start the New Year, let's take the time to prepare for emergencies.

Should you ever need help after a fire, SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast is here for you 24/7. Please call us at 216-464-4498.

Recovering and Rebuilding Your University Heights Home after Fire Damage

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Even with the utmost care and prevention, accidents happen and a fire in the home or business can be devastating and is one of everyone’s worst nightmares. You could lose everything you love and value. Your entire family or staff may be wondering what to do once the firefighters leave. SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast wants to help you recover as quickly as possible from all damage and get your home, business and life back to normal.

You have to remember, a fire is not only flames, it’s also smoke, odor and water damage, but never fear, SERVPRO is here! We can provide structural cleaning and drying of walls, floors, and ceilings. We use industry approved products to clean, along with specialized equipment to care for your home or business and rid it of the odor, soot and water associated with a fire loss.

SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast also has the resources to assist in the contents cleaning of your salvageable possessions. We can facilitate the restoration of your furniture, valuables, paintings, documents and electronics. Our goal is to always make your home or business look “Like it Never even Happened.®”

Please keep in mind to always call 911 in any and all emergency situations. Your safety is always our #1 priority! Contact us at 216-464-4498 for 24/7 assistance as soon as you are ready for us to evaluate your situation. We extend our services in the surrounding Beachwood and Cleveland areas including, but not limited to: Mayfield Heights, Valley View, and Shaker Heights.

Fireplace Tips for the Cleveland Area

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

What should I do before I use my fireplace?

1. Hire a Chimney Sweep. …The National Fire Protection Association recommends that chimneys be swept at least once a year at the beginning of the winter to remove soot and debris.
2. Check for Damage. In addition to cleaning, a chimney sweep should inspect the chimney structure for cracks, loose bricks, or missing mortar. Chimney liners should also be checked for cracking or deterioration.
3. Cap the Chimney. A cap fitted with wire-mesh sides covers the top of the chimney and keeps rain, birds, squirrels, and debris from entering. Replace or repair a cap that's missing or damaged.
4. Burn Seasoned Hardwoods. Choose dense wood, such as oak, that's been split and stored in a high and dry place for at least six months. Green wood and resinous softwoods like pine produce more creosote, a flammable by-product of combustion that can build up in the chimney.
5. Don't Overload. Small fires generate less smoke, thus less creosote buildup. Also, a fire that's too large or too hot can crack the chimney.
6. Build It Right. Place logs at the rear of the fireplace on a metal grate. Use kindling, rather than flammable liquids, to start the fire.
7. Use a Spark Guard. Prevent errant embers from shooting out of the firebox with a mesh metal screen or glass fireplace doors. A guard in front of an open flame is especially important when the room is unoccupied.

https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/how-to-prep-your-fireplace-cold-season

Is it safe to leave the fireplace on overnight?

Never leave your burning fireplace unattended. It is important to extinguish the fire before going to bed or leaving the house, and imperative that you allow ashes to cool fully before you dispose them, and best to leave them in your fireplace until the following morning if you've enjoyed a fire the night before.

https://freshome.com/2012/12/13/how-to-enjoy-your-fireplace-safely/

Can you get carbon monoxide from a fireplace?

The less complete the burning (combustion), the more carbon monoxide is generated. Gas hot water heaters, gas and oil furnaces, fireplaces, and wood stoves all generate carbon monoxide. One of the reasons carbon monoxide is so deadly is that you generally can't see or smell it: rarely do its victims have any warning.

https://www.homeadvisor.com/r/fireplace-and-chimney-problems/

Fun Facts About Fireplace Ashes!

• Ash can de-skunk pets! A handful rubbed on Fido’s coat neutralizes the lingering odor.
• Hide paving stains. According to This Old House, ash absorbs wet paint spatters on cement; sprinkle the ash directly on the darkened spot.
• Ash is a great compost enricher. Sprinkle ash into your garden before you add the organic compound to your soil. The ash will enhance its nutrients but adding too much can ruin the mix.
• Ash is a great pest deterrent! When spread evenly around your garden beds it will repel slugs and snails.
• Ash is a natural ice melter. It won’t leave a residue like salt, which can also harm your pet’s feet. It won’t hurt the soil or concrete beneath either.
• One tablespoon of ash per 1,000 gallons of water adds enough potassium to control pond algae. The ash also strengthens other aquatic plants that compete with algae, slowing its growth.
• For plump juicy tomatoes This Old House editor McGrath adds ¼ cup into the hole prior to planting them.
• A damp sponge dipped into the sooty ash makes a fine fireplace door cleaner, and if you’re feeling really adventurous, a paste of ash and water makes a wonderful and non-toxic metal polisher for your silver!

https://freshome.com/2012/12/13/how-to-enjoy-your-fireplace-safely/

If you or anyone you know experiences fire damage this winter, call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at (216) 464-4498! We extend our services throughout the Cleveland and Beachwood area including, but not limited to: University Heights, Mayfield Heights, and Euclid. 

Our Fire and Soot Damage Restoration Services for Your University Heights Home

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment and experience to restore your fire, smoke and soot damage.

Different Types of Smoke require different cleaning methods. There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. 

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 Material Evaporation

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

Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast will need to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on that information. We will take the extra time to ensure the soot damage is removed prior to placing your contents back into your Mayfield Heights home or Bratenahl business. 

As many of us know from sitting by the bonfire or your wood-burning fireplace in your University Heights home, soot travels throughout the air leaving a thin layer of what appears to be black dust. That dust is made up of a number of carbon particles that contains high levels of carcinogens. After a fire the smoke and soot damage can travel all throughout the home, regardless of where the fire originates.

Please call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at 216-464-4498 and let us take over the stress of cleanup which will allow you to focus on what's important. We will treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

How to Tell When it’s Time for Chimney Cleaning at Your Pepper Pike Homestead

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

There isn’t a simple rule of thumb on how often to clean your chimney, such as cleaning after 50 uses or one year. The problem is, creosote can form when wood is burned incompletely. A smoky fire without enough oxygen emits lots of unburned tar vapors that can condense inside the fireplace flue and stick to it, possibly leading to a chimney fire. You can reduce creosote buildup in your fireplace flue by providing adequate combustion air, which will encourage a hot, clean-burning fire.

To check for creosote yourself, first, make sure there’s no downdraft from the chimney. If you feel an airflow, open a door or window on the same floor as the fireplace until the downdraft stops or reverses and air flows up (tape tissue to the fireplace opening and watch its movement). Then, while wearing goggles and a basic disposable dust mask, take a strong flashlight and your fireplace poker and scratch the black surface above the damper (smoke chamber). If the groove you scratch in the creosote is paper thin, no cleaning is needed. If it’s 1/8 in. thick, schedule a cleaning soon. If you have 1/4 in. of creosote, do not use the fireplace again until it is cleaned—a chimney fire could occur at any time.

To check for creosote, shine the light near the top of the firebox, in the smoke chamber and around the damper. And check the fireplace flue, too, especially on exterior chimneys, where creosote builds faster than on interior chimneys because of lower outside temperatures.

The easiest creosote to remove is the feather-light dull gray, brown or black soot. The next form is a black granular accumulation, removed fairly easily with a stiff chimney brush. The third type of creosote is a road tar-like coating that is much harder to remove even with stiff chimney brushes, scrapers or power rotary whips. The final (and most deadly) is a shiny, glaze-like coating on the fireplace flue that is virtually impossible to remove.

You could try to remove creosote yourself, but for a thorough job, call a chimney sweep who’s certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. Make sure the sweep you hire ($150 to $200) does more than pushing a brush. A chimney sweep needs to be knowledgeable about building codes, trained to recognize deterioration or venting problems and able to advise you regarding the chimney’s condition. And the National Fire Protection Association recommends that chimneys, fireplaces and vents be inspected at least once per year.

Another, idea to try out when it’s time to clean your chimney is a chimney sweep log. A fireplace cleaning log helps to prevent chimney fires and they help remove debris deposited along the chimney walls. These sticky deposits are called creosote. Creosote deposited over a long period becomes highly flammable and it’s often the cause of chimney fires. Creosote removal is vital to your safety. Sweeping logs are popular because of their ease of use for creosote removal. All you have to do is unwrap the log from its package and place it in a lit wood burning fireplace. https://www.familyhandyman.com/cleaning/when-to-clean-a-chimney-flue/view-all/

SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast is here for you 24/7/365 to keep your home in prestige condition. Call us today at (216) 464-4498. We extend our services throughout Cleveland and Beachwood including, but not limited to: Lyndhurst, Bratenahl, and Newburgh Heights.

Home Fire Safety in Garfield Heights

1/4/2019 (Permalink)

Do you know the most common causes of home fires? The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that, "there are as many as 400,000 house fires every year in the United States and cooking equipment is the number one cause of home structure fires and home fire injuries; smoking is the leading cause of civilian home fire deaths and heating equipment is the second most common cause of home fire fatalities.” 

Additionally, the facts do not lie, our friends at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reports that “2,900 home clothes dryer fires are reported each year and cause an estimated 5 deaths, 100 injuries and $35 million in property loss.” FEMA also reported that, “peak months of fall and winter this is even more likely to occur.”

To keep your family safe, the American Red Cross recommends the following:

“Top Tips for Fire Safety:

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.

Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, change the batteries.

Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.

If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone.”

We here at SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast care about your safety and the restoration of your home. If you or someone you know experience a devastating home or commercial building fire, call us at 216-464-4498. We extend our services throughout the Cleveland/Beachwood area including, but not limited to: University Heights, South Euclid, and Pepper Pike. Our teams are professionally certified to clean, restore, and repair your damaged home. 

Alert the Press! Fire CAN Cause Damage to Your Pepper Pike Home!

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

With the Fourth of July approaching this week, young and old are excited for their local fireworks displays around Mayfield Heights, OH. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that an average of 15,600 fires per year are caused by fireworks. Be sure to read these statistics and prepare yourselves for what could happen (but don't forget to have fun!).

Average fire damage each year include 1,400 structure fires, 200 vehicle fires, and 14,000 outside and other fires. Property damage, injury and even death are caused by these fires each year. More than a quarter of fires reported, occurred on July Fourth. More than one-third (35%) of the people seen in emergency rooms for fireworks injuries from June 20-July 20 at the time of this study were under 15 years old; nine percent were under five years old. Even something seemingly tame like sparklers alone accounted for more than one one-quarter (28%) of the emergency room fireworks injuries seen from June 20-July 20 at the time of this study. Keep your family safe by enjoying fireworks presented by your local communities. 

Studies show that there is more property damage on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year. Check with your Pepper Pike home owner’s insurance company on your coverage relating to fireworks. If you are involved in illegal fireworks you may not be covered. This could be a costly celebration!

If you do have a fire property loss in University Heights, SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast has professionally trained production teams that can quickly respond to your fire loss. We will send an estimator to your home to evaluate the loss and supply you with an itemized estimate for fire restoration and repairs needed in your home. If your damage is severe, SERVPRO can pack up your contents and store them until your home repairs are completed. SERVPRO will clean all cleanable structure and remove any structure that is not salvageable. Our trained construction department can replace any damaged structure.

Be safe and have fun this Fourth of July!

Call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at 216.464.4498 if you experience a fire loss. We’re here to help!

SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast can Help After a Fire

6/8/2018 (Permalink)

The one place you should feel completely safe and comfortable is your own Euclid home. This comfort can change in seconds when a fire starts, and smoke fills your home. The residue that is left behind after the fire is out is called SOOT. Soot is the black powdery or flaky substance consisting largely of amorphous carbon, produced by the incomplete burning of organic matter. Do not take cleaning soot into your own hands, it is important to call the professionals of SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast to clean up after your Bratenahl home has been affected by a fire. Below are helpful tips:

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 and have your HVAC provider to your East Cleveland home to perform a system check
• 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 a professional cleaning company
• 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 because the wiring may be damaged
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner as improper cleaning may set smoke odor

SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast has highly trained professionals to call 24-hours a day to help clean up and restore your home. Call us today 216-464-4498!

Fire Restoration and Cleanup in the Beachwood Area

2/18/2018 (Permalink)

What would you do if...

You receive a call from a client today with a fire loss?

You have a fire loss on one of your Shaker Heights commercial properties?

You have a fire at your own Pepper Pike personal property?

To help you think, let's look at some statistics...

Fire claims spike during the months of November - February due to dryness and increased usage of heating technology.

On average, fire causes over $12.4 billion in property damage anually.

Top 5 Causes of Fire Loss According to the NFPA:
1. Cooking equipment
2. Heating equipment
3. Malicious Intent
4. Electrical distribution & lighting equipment
5. Smoking materials

But what am I supposed to do after the fire? You need to call a professional cleaning company. Luckily, there's a great one right in your backyard! SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast is here to aid you in any fire damage emergencies. 

Why not a Contractor?

Mitigate, clean, & restore FIRST. Then repair and rebuild. Luckily, SERVPRO does it all!

SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast are here to aid your disaster recovery needs. Call us today at 216.464.4498! Our services extend throughout the Northeast Ohio region including, but not limited to: Euclid, East Cleveland, and Newburgh Heights. 

Information Regarding a Shaker Heights Home Fire

2/11/2018 (Permalink)

Worried about a home fire? Who isn't? Some things you can do to give yourself peace of mind include: 

- Initiating a preloss relationship with SERVPRO, a cleanup and restoration company

- Keeping household members accountable to fire education that includes prevention and stopping a fire safely

- Organizing an escape plan and emergency checkpoint in the event of a fire

- Continuing information research on fire safety

According to FEMA...

“A fire in a home, whether you live in an apartment, a single family, or multifamily home, can cause serious damage. The building and many of the things in your home may have been badly damaged by flames, heat, smoke, and water. You will find that things the fire did not burn up are now ruined by smoke and soggy with water used to put out the flames. Anything you want to save or re-use will need to be carefully cleaned. The firefighters may have cut holes in the walls of the building to look for any hidden flames. They may even have cut holes in the roof to let out the heat and smoke. Cleanup will take time and patience.”  

SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast is here to help! Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe. Call us today at 216.464.4498. We extend our services across the Cleveland/Beachwood region including, but not limited to: Shaker Heights, Pepper Pike, and University Heights. 

What's Your First Step to a Cleveland Home Fire?

2/1/2018 (Permalink)

What do you do if a fire starts in your Beachwood home? According to American Red Cross, these should be your first steps:

• "Remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL 9-1-1 or your local emergency phone number.
• Yell "Fire!" several times and go outside right away. If you live in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.
• If closed doors or handles are warm or smoke blocks your primary escape route, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to the touch.
• If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Close doors behind you.
• If smoke, heat or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with doors closed. Place a wet towel under the door and call the fire department or 9-1-1. Open a window and wave a brightly colored cloth or flashlight to signal for help.
• Once you are outside, go to your meeting place and then send one person to call the fire department. If you cannot get to your meeting place, follow your family emergency communication plan."

Keep in mind that SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast is here to aid you in the event of a fire. However, do not call us first, call 911 to ensure the safety of you, your family, and your home. For the cleanup and restoration process, call us at 216.464.4498. We extend our services across the Cleveland area including but not limited to: University Heights, Mayfield Heights, and Euclid. 

Preventing Dryer Vent Fires in Your Garfield Heights Home

12/24/2017 (Permalink)

One of the most common causes of fires is also perhaps the most preventable. Two words, dryer vents.

Dryer vents connect from your clothes dryer, and can build up lint. If not cleaned out properly, the air cannot flow properly, and a fire can result. This type of fire happens most frequently in homes, posing dangers to adults and children.

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

Apart from cleaning your dryer vent, the U.S. Fire Administration has suggestions to enhance safety when using your clothes dryer:

• Don’t use a clothes dryer without a lint filter or with a lint filter that is loose, damaged or clogged.
• Don’t overload the dryer.
• Don’t use a wire screen or cloth to cover the wall damper. They can collect lint and clog the dryer vent.
• Don’t dry anything containing foam, rubber or plastic. An example of an item not to place in a dryer is a bathroom rug with a rubber backing.
• Don’t dry any item for which manufacturers' instructions state “dry away from heat.”
• Don’t dry glass fiber materials (unless manufacturers' instructions allow).
• Don’t dry items that have come into contact with anything flammable like alcohol, cooking oils or gasoline. Dry them outdoors or in a well-ventilated room, away from heat.
• Don’t leave a clothes dryer running if you leave home or when you go to bed.

If you experience fire damage due to an uncleaned dryer vent, call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at 216.464.4498. We extend our services throughout the Upper Cleveland region including, but not limited to: Euclid, Mayfield Heights, and Newburgh Heights. 

Fire Restoration in Beachwood, Ohio

12/9/2017 (Permalink)

Here are some tips to prevent residential fires:

• Cover your chimney with a mesh screen spark arrestor
• A yearly inspection is recommended
• Ensure all smoke detectors are operating efficiently (test them once a month and be sure they are on each level of your building)

We specialize in fire and water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. We have extensive fire damage cleanup and restoration training to get your Shaker Heights property back to pre-fire condition. We focus on restoring versus replacing because restoring the affected areas of your property is substantially less costly than demolishing and replacing those areas. This “restore first” mentality also allows us to get your home or business back to pre-fire condition quicker and with less disruption.

If there is ever a fire, it is important to exit the building immediately and call for help. Do not call SERVPRO first, call 911. SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast is here 24/7 if you need our help. Call us today at 216-464-4498. We extend our services across the Upper Cleveland area including, but not limited to: Lyndhurst, Euclid, and University Heights.

Christmas Tree Fires in Cleveland Heights, Ohio

12/9/2017 (Permalink)

Among the holiday seasons, there are a plethora of ways your home can catch on fire. However, one of the most prominent causes is due to one of our favorite decorations...a Christmas tree! You might be wondering, how could a Christmas tree do this to us? Well, it isn't the trees fault, most fires are started because of a bad electrical cord, or even a cord not plugged in all the way. There have been instances where an extension cord has failed while under pressure of an object, ultimately causing a fire in your Newburgh Heights home. With real trees, there are many precautions and care that needs to be given as well. Watering the Christmas tree daily is absolutely necessary because if the water level drops below the cut end of the tree, the tree is unable to consume any water, causing it to be extremely dry. Dry trees are the biggest culprit in these Pepper Pike home fires because they can burn faster than newspaper, causing the fire to spread rapidly. One in every 31 Christmas tree fires is deadly. Keep your family safe in your East Cleveland home by making sure string lights have no loose connections, using a single extension cord that isn’t longer than needed, use UL- approved lights, turn off lights before bed, water the tree daily, and keep candles away from the tree.

SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast is here for you 24/7! Give us a call today at 216.464.4498

Fire Restoration in Richmond Heights

11/26/2017 (Permalink)

What happens when your home catches fire? It's tough to say what you would do because the experience is a blur, and something that no one should have to go through. Let's hear from the experts at the U.S. Fire Administration: 

“A fire in a home, whether you live in an apartment, a single family, or multifamily home, can cause serious damage. The building and many of the things in your home may have been badly damaged by flames, heat, smoke, and water. You will find that things the fire did not burn up are now ruined by smoke and soggy with water used to put out the flames. Anything you want to save or re-use will need to be carefully cleaned. The firefighters may have cut holes in the walls of the building to look for any hidden flames. They may even have cut holes in the roof to let out the heat and smoke. Cleanup will take time and patience.” 

SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast are here for you in your time of need after a devastating fire. We pick the pieces back up and make it, "Like it never even happened." We extend our services throughout the Northeast area of Ohio including, but not limited to: Mayfield Heights, University Heights, and Richmond Heights. 

Hanukkah Candle Safety Tips from SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast

11/15/2017 (Permalink)

Happy Hanukkah! SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast wishes all our customers a wonderful holiday season. Home fires are bound to happen throughout the dry winter, but let's hear it from a Hanukkah expert, PJ Feinstein:

• “Never leave a lit menorah unattended.
• Place menorahs on tall, sturdy surfaces like kitchen counters and dining room tables, out of reach from pets and small children.
• Never light a menorah near curtains, plants, tablecloths or decorations.
• Sit the menorah atop a nonflammable surface (we always used aluminum foil) to catch wax drippings or a falling candle.
• Secure candles in their holders by slightly melting the wax at the bottom of each candle before placing in the menorah.
• Only use electric menorahs on windowsills.
• When plugging in an electric menorah, keep infants and toddlers away from the socket (and be sure to check for frayed wires before using).
• Keep matches and stick lighters away from young children.
• Test the smoke detectors in your house and have a fire extinguisher nearby in case the unthinkable happens.”

If you practice unsafe Hanukkah rituals and cause a home fire, be sure to call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at 216.464.4498 today! We extend our services throughout the upper Ohio region including, but not limited to: Mayfield Heights, Lyndhurst, and Euclid.  

Turkey Fryer Safety in the Pepper Pike Area

11/6/2017 (Permalink)

Thinking about using a fryer to cook your turkey this Thanksgiving? Please remember to follow all the safety tips provided at the time of purchase so you do not become a statistic. What could go wrong? Let's ask our friends at the National Fire Protection Agency:

• “Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve.
• In 2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,760 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving, the peak day for such fires.
• Unattended cooking was by far the leading contributing factor in cooking fires and fire deaths.
• Cooking equipment was involved in almost half (48%) of all reported home fires and civilian and tied with heating equipment for the second leading cause of home fire deaths.”

If you or someone you know experiences devastation due to fire damage, call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast at 216.464.4498 today! We extend our services throughout the upper Ohio region including, but not limited to: Brooklyn Heights, Lyndhurst, and Shaker Heights.  

Preventing Electrical Fires in your University Heights Home

8/11/2017 (Permalink)

Electrical appliances are a serious offender in the causation of home fires. To protect your home, everyone should be aware of electrical dangers. Here are some tips from our friends at First Energy: 

“Review these tips to ensure safe operation of electrical appliances:

Make sure appliances are approved by Underwriters' Laboratories or another authorized laboratory.

Never operate an appliance while touching a metal object - especially plumbing - or while standing on a wet surface or while taking a bath or shower. Teach children not to touch appliances with wet hands.

Always locate appliances away from sinks and tubs in the kitchen or bathroom.

Never use a metal object such as a fork or knife to dislodge something from an appliance.

Keep motors clean and free from lint, dust, and dirt. Always unplug appliances before cleaning them.”

If you or someone you know experiences a home fire due to an electrical appliance, call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast today at 216.464.4498. We extend our services throughout the upper Cleveland area including, but not limited to: University Heights, Euclid, and Mayfield Heights. 

Keeping Your Fur Babies Safe

7/29/2017 (Permalink)

Rosie the Beagle practicing her safety

Do you have pets in your home? Dogs and Cats for many of us are our children and keeping them safe in an emergency is equally as important. Dogs and cats are particularly curious animals and sometimes that can actually result in fires if you don't take a few extra precautions. 

Did you know?

"Pets and wild animals have a part in starting about 700 home fires per year. Roughly three-quarters of these fires were started by cooking equipment, fireplaces or chimneys, lighting, or candles."(NFPA)

To protect your home and pets here are a few simple things you can do to be safe:

• "Consider battery-operated, flameless candles. They can look and smell like real candles.

• Some pets are chewers. Watch pets to make sure they don’t chew through electrical cords. Have any problems checked by a professional."

If you'd like more tips about pet fire safety visit:http://www.nfpa.org/~/media/files/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets/petsafetytips.pdf?as=1&iar=1&la=en

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights 216-464-4498

Fire and Smoke

7/23/2017 (Permalink)

“On average, 8 people die in a home fire each day in the U.S.—almost 3,000 people every year. While working smoke alarms cut the chance of dying in a fire nearly in half, roughly two-thirds of all home fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms, according to statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).”

While many home have smoke detectors many are not up to the standards that are recommended. New advances in technology has brought out newer alarms that are all interconnected to provide you with the best detection and alerts possible. 

In addition, 

“Smoke alarms should be tested once a month by pressing the TEST button.

Smoke alarm batteries should be replaced in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, at least once a year. If an alarm “chirps” or “beeps” to indicate low batteries, they should be replaced immediately.

Occasionally dust or lightly vacuum the exterior of the alarm to remove dust and cobwebs.

Smoke alarms should be replaced in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, at least every ten years.

Never paint over a smoke alarm.”

For more information visit: ESFI Fire Escape Planning

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights 216-464-4498….here to help! 

Generator Tips

7/19/2017 (Permalink)

This time of year sometimes leads to power outages. During inclement weather use of generators can be a source of danger around the home. “When plugging in appliances, make sure they are plugged directly into the generator or a heavy duty outdoor-rated extension cord. The cords should be checked for cuts, tears and that the plug has all three prongs, especially a grounding pin. If you must connect the generator to the house wiring to power appliances, have a qualified electrician install a properly rated transfer switch in accordance with the National Electrical Code® (NEC) and all applicable state and local electrical codes”. 

Also, “Never use a generator in an attached garage, even with the door open, Generators should be used in well ventilated locations outside away from all doors, windows and vent openings.”

For more information visit: http://www.nfpa.org/~/media/files/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets/generatorsafetytips.pdf?la=en

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights 216-464-4498

Home Fire Prevention

7/17/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know that Electrical malfunction is the leading cause of home fires? With some simple tips to ensure your electrical in your home is safe many fires could be easily prevented. 

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-Have your home electrical system thoroughly inspected by qualified electricians to ensure that all electrical work in the home meets the safety provisions in the NEC.

-Install smoke detectors on every level of the home, inside each bedroom, and outside each sleeping area.

-Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on the light fixture.

-Look for telltale signs of electrical problems such as dim and flickering lights, unusual sizzling and buzzing sounds from your electrical system, insulation and circuit breakers that trip repeatedly. Contact a qualified electrician immediately.

-Use extension cords only temporarily, and never with space heaters or air conditioners.”

For more safety information to prevent home fires visit: http://www.esfi.org/fire-prevention

 SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights 216-464-4498….here to help! 

4th Of July Safety Tips

6/18/2017 (Permalink)

“Now is the time of year when we have cook outs, and sometimes those will often include fireworks. Whether you are setting them off, or attending a fireworks show, here are some important tips to follow. FIREWORKS SAFETY The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public fireworks show put on by professionals. Stay at least 500 feet away from the show. Many states outlaw most fireworks. If someone is setting fireworks off at home, they should follow these safety steps:

Never give fireworks to small children, and always follow the instructions on the packaging.

Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.

Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.

Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight "a dud."

Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.”

For more information, please continue reading at: http://www.redcross.org/news/article/Red-Cross-Issues-Safety-Tips-For-4th-of-July-Holiday

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights can be reached at 216-464-4498.

Make Sure Your Smoke Detector Is In Working Order

4/27/2017 (Permalink)

As we spring forward for daylight savings time, this is a great opportunity to test your smoke detectors and check their batteries. These are a few helpful pointers.

“Warn family members. Unless you are trying to conduct a fire drill, you should let everyone in the home know that you will be testing the smoke detector so that they will not feel frightened when the detector goes off.[3] •If your smoke detector is hardwired to a monitored security system, be sure to notify the security system's company that you are performing a test before you test the alarm. You don't want the fire department showing up at your door!”

For more information, please continue reading at: http://www.wikihow.com/Test-a-Smoke-Detector

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights can be reached at 216-464-4498.

Are You Using Your Fireplace Vent Properly?

3/27/2017 (Permalink)

“A fireplace is often the main feature in a room. Pictures and keepsakes are displayed on the mantel, and during the holidays, the pictures are exchanged for Christmas stockings. A fire crackling in the fireplace adds to the ambiance while the heat it generates helps to warm the area. A closed vent can cause smoke to billow into the room, but using the fireplace vents properly ensures enough air feeds the fire and the smoke escapes up the chimney.

Prepare your fire in the fireplace by placing two dry, seasoned logs onto the grate. Place a kindling between the two logs such as dry leaves, twigs, bark, dried pine needles or small pieces of split, dried softwood. Loosely crumple old newspaper and push it under the grate. “

For more information, please continue reading at:

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/use-fireplace-vents-properly-27448.html

Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.  We are available 24/7 for all your emergency needs. No job is too small or too big for our teams!  

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights 216-464-4498.

Fire Safety Plans- For Your Pet

3/10/2017 (Permalink)

“Have an escape route and plan in place to expedite the escape of everyone, including your pets, to a location outside and to an agreed upon meeting place. One integral thing that can ensure a safe exit is having a leash and cat carrier near the exit door. Maintaining control of a pet in a stressful situation like this means everything.

During planning, you can teach your pooch that the smoke alarm going off means something significant. The noise from the alarm can be a nonverbal signal to your dog that they need to spring into action, along with everyone else, in a calm, cooperative way to exit the home safely. Implementing a specific training exercise with your dog and working with them can be part of their basic training.

After devising a clear exit plan, walk through it together, beginning with the sound of the alarm and proceeding just as you all would if there were a fire. Ideally, Hoeft adds, "Practicing the fire escape plan monthly will help kids and pets grasp the exercise with confidence." Pets are especially capable — they learn best with repetition and catch on quickly.

Integrating kids into the plan can be a pinnacle in getting them to understand the gravity of the situation, because they can be integral in ensuring that a pet is accounted for, especially if there are multiple pets. There are some pets who, by habit, sleep with a preferred child; it can be that child's mission within the plan to confirm to the adults where the pet is, or, if they are old enough to be considered able to do so, scoop up the cat and get her into a cat carrier or grab the leash near the door and accompany the dog outside.”

For more information, please continue reading at:

http://www.annarbor.com/pets/fire-prevention-week-2010---your-guide-to-pets-and-fire-safety/

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights at 216-464-4498

Grilling Safety Tips

3/1/2017 (Permalink)

“Liquid petroleum (LP) gas or propane, used in gas grills, is highly flammable. Each year about 30 people are injured as a result of gas grill fires and explosions. Many of these fires and explosions occur when consumers first use a grill that has been left idle for a period of time or just after refilling and reattaching the grill's gas container. To reduce the risk of fire or explosion, consumers should routinely perform the following safety checks:

-- Check the tubes that lead into the burner for any blockage from insects, spiders, or food grease. Use a pipe cleaner or wire to clear blockage and push it through to the main part of the burner.

-- Check grill hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes, and leaks. Make sure there are no sharp bends in the hose or tubing.

-- Move gas hoses as far away as possible from hot surfaces and dripping hot grease. If you can't move the hoses, install a heat shield to protect them.

-- Replace scratched or nicked connectors, which can eventually leak gas.

-- Check for gas leaks, following the manufacturer's instructions, if you smell gas or when you reconnect the grill to the LP gas container. If you detect a leak, immediately turn off the gas and don't attempt to light the grill until the leak is fixed.

-- Keep lighted cigarettes, matches, or open flames away from a leaking grill.

-- Never use a grill indoors. Use the grill at least 10 feet away from your house or any building. Do not use the grill in a garage, breezeway, carport, porch, or under a surface that can catch fire.

-- Do not attempt to repair the tank valve or the appliance yourself. See an LP gas dealer or a qualified appliance repair person.

-- Always follow the manufacturer's instructions that accompany the grill.”

For more information, please continue reading online at: https://www.cpsc.gov/content/cpsc-releases-grill-safety-tips

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498

Fireplace Cleaning Tips

2/17/2017 (Permalink)

“If you’re planning some decorations for your fireplace, or if you just want to get rid of the unsightly build-up of soot, you are probably wondering how to clean a fireplace without making a mess. Cleaning your fireplace may look like a forbidding job, but if you take it step-by-step you’ll neither swear nor sweat. This tested method has worked on fireplaces up to 100 years old.

Items You’ll Need from the Hardware Store for a Clean Fireplace:

• Plastic goggles for eye protection
• A stiff nylon scrub brush
• Sturdy rubber gloves
• A cheap plastic drop cloth
• A small carton of TSP (Tri-Sodium Phosphate) or phosphate-free TSP Substitute
• A plastic bucket

Removing Soot for a Clean Fireplace

You can use latex doctor’s gloves to keep your hands clean, but be very careful when scrubbing that you don’t blister your hands, which will be moist and soft inside the gloves.

Put down a cheap plastic drop cloth to kneel on. It’s a good idea to have a large trash can, lined with 2 trash bags, standing by.

Remove your andirons and grate and take them outdoors. Remove the excess soot with your wire brush and set them aside. If your andirons are brass, you can polish them with a brass polish such Brasso, if you like. If the grate and/or the andirons are black, you can restore their look to new with a spray paint appropriate for high temperature use. “

Please continue reading this online article at: http://www.fireplacemall.com/blog/2013/10/clean-fireplace/

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498

Inspecting Your Fire Extinguisher

2/13/2017 (Permalink)

“Perform the Inspection.

Once you locate the portable extinguishers in your area, the next step is learning the process of visual inspection. Visual inspections should include the following steps:

Ensure access to the extinguisher is not obstructed by storage bins, file cabinets, or similar items

Make sure the extinguisher is mounted in a location where it is visible and easy to locate during an emergency

Check the tamper-seal to verify it is not broken or missing

Ensure the pull-pin is not missing

Check the pressure gauge to make sure the indicator is in the operating range (the needle should be located in the green portion of the gauge)

Note: Carbon Dioxide extinguishers do not have a gauge. The only method for verifying a carbon dioxide extinguisher is fully-charged is to weigh the unit, and weighing extinguishers is outside the scope of the normal visual inspection.

Check the extinguisher for obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage, or a clogged nozzle, and report any problems with campus extinguishers to Fire Prevention Services so we can make corrective measures

Keep track of when the last professional inspection was; off-campus this information is likely written on a paper inspection tag, and on campus Fire Prevention Services monitors the dates of annual inspections through barcodes on the extinguishers”

For more information, please continue reading at: https://fireprevention.utexas.edu/extinguishers/inspection.html

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities.

Create a Fire Escape Plan

1/26/2017 (Permalink)

“Practice your home fire escape plan twice a year, making the drill as realistic as possible.

Make arrangements in your plan for anyone in your home who has a disability.

Allow children to master fire escape planning and practice before holding a fire drill at night when they are sleeping. The objective is to practice, not to frighten, so telling children there will be a drill before they go to bed can be as effective as a surprise drill.

It's important to determine during the drill whether children and others can readily waken to the sound of the smoke alarm. If they fail to awaken, make sure that someone is assigned to wake them up as part of the drill and in a real emergency situation.

If your home has two floors, every family member (including children) must be able to escape from the second floor rooms. Escape ladders can be placed in or near windows to provide an additional escape route. Review the manufacturer's instructions carefully so you'll be able to use a safety ladder in an emergency. Practice setting up the ladder from a first floor window to make sure you can do it correctly and quickly. Children should only practice with a grown-up, and only from a first-story window. Store the ladder near the window, in an easily accessible location. You don't want to have to search for it during a fire.”

For more information, continue reading this online article at: http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/safety-in-the-home/escape-planning/basic-fire-escape-planning

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities.

Fire Protection-Sprinkler Systems

1/20/2017 (Permalink)

“Your building may be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system. When properly installed and maintained, this system provides 24-hour fire protection. Should a fire start, the system will activate and release a water spray in the area of the fire, suppressing it until the fire department arrives. It is important that the system be professionally inspected at least annually, or more often depending on your local codes and requirements. Fire Extinguishers Portable fire extinguishers are often the first line of defense in fighting a fire. It is important that your business has the right type, size and number of extinguishers, and that your employees are trained to locate and use them.”

Please continue reading this entire article at: https://static1.st8fm.com/en_US/content_pages/1/pdf/us/Loss%20Control%20for%20Business.pdf

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….Call us 24/7

Christmas Tree Fire Information

12/13/2016 (Permalink)

 “U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 210 home1 structure fires per year that began with Christmas trees in 2009-2013. These fires caused an annual average of seven civilian deaths, 19 civilian injuries, and $17.5 million in direct property damage. On average, one of every 31 reported home Christmas tree fires resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 144 total reported home fires. When these fires occur, they are much more likely to be deadly than most other fires. Electrical failures or malfunctions were factors in 30% of Christmas tree fires. In one-quarter (24%) of the Christmas tree fires and two-thirds (67%) of the deaths, some type of heat source, such as a candle or equipment, was too close to the tree “

For more information, please continue reading at: http://www.nfpa.org/news-and-research/fire-statistics-and-reports/fire-statistics/fire-causes/holiday/christmas-tree-and-holiday-lights

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Space Heater Safety Tips

12/7/2016 (Permalink)

• “Never leave pets and young children alone in a room with a space heater.
• Buy a space heater that has a guard around the heating element. This will help keep kids and pets safe from burns.
• Choose one that’s tested and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. Not only do they meet certain safety standards, but manufacturers have to provide use and care information to consumers.
• Never leave a space heater turned on when you leave the house or go to sleep. Dangerous levels of carbon monoxide can form if you’re using a fuel-fired heater, and a fire can start if you’re using an electric model.
• Don’t run several appliances at the same time if you’re using a space heater. In addition, don’t use extension cords with them. This will help avoid a circuit overload.
• Check your heaters regularly – look for frayed wires and remove dust accumulation on grates, grills, coils, and other elements of the heater. All of these are a fire hazard.
• To help prevent shocks, avoid using space heaters in rooms where spills and moisture build-ups are likely, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
• If you have an older model, consider getting a newer one that most likely has improved safety features.”

For more information, please continue reading at: http://www.clekis.com/dangers-space-heaters/

 SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Holiday Fires-Tips

11/27/2016 (Permalink)

Did you know?

“Nearly 47,000 fires occur during the winter holidays claiming more than 500 lives, causing more than 2,200 injuries, and costing $554 million in property damage.** • On average, one of every 22 home fires started by Christmas trees result in death.*** • Candle fires are four times as likely to occur during the winter holidays.** • During the winter holiday season, an average of 40 home fires per day are caused by children playing.** • The number of home fires the American Red Cross has responded to has risen 10% since 2000.* • Having a working smoke alarm reduces one’s chances of dying in a fire by nearly half.**  Sources: American Red Cross,* U.S. Fire Administration,** and the National Fire Protection Association.*** “

For more information, please continue reading at: http://www.redcross.org/images/MEDIA_CustomProductCatalog/m4340080_FireHolidayFactSheet.pdf

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Candle Safety Tips

11/8/2016 (Permalink)

Did you know these facts about candle safety?

• “Always keep a burning candle within sight.Extinguish all candles when leaving a room or before going to sleep. Be sure the wick ember is no longer glowing.
• Never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire. Keep burning candles away from furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, paper, flammable decorations, etc.
• Keep burning candles out of the reach of children and pets.
• Trim candlewicks to ¼ inch each time before burning. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning and dripping.
• Always use a candle-holder specifically designed for candle use.The holder should be heat resistant, sturdy, and large enough to contain any drips or melted wax.
• Be sure the candle-holder is placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface. This can help prevent heat damage to underlying surfaces and prevent glass containers from breaking.”

Source: http://candles.org/fire-safety-candles/candle-safety-rules/ Please click the link to continue reading the online article.

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Home Fire

11/4/2016 (Permalink)

“A fire in a home, whether you live in an apartment, a single family, or multifamily home, can cause serious damage. The building and many of the things in your home may have been badly damaged by flames, heat, smoke, and water. You will find that things the fire did not burn up are now ruined by smoke and soggy with water used to put out the flames. Anything you want to save or re-use will need to be carefully cleaned. The firefighters may have cut holes in the walls of the building to look for any hidden flames. They may even have cut holes in the roof to let out the heat and smoke. Cleanup will take time and patience.” Source: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Fireplace Safety Tips

11/1/2016 (Permalink)

Nationwide Insurance online states: “Creosote is a highly combustible fuel that burns intensely. A slow-burning fire such as those found in a modern, airtight stove damped way down, produces a flue temperature in the 100-200 degree Fahrenheit range. These comparatively low temperatures do not sufficiently carry all of the unburned, combustible gases into the atmosphere. Instead, they condense along the walls of the stovepipe and the chimney as creosote. Creosote may take 3 forms:

• A sticky liquid that will run down the chimney and stove pipe where it will be burned
• A flaky, black deposit which is easily removed by brushing
• A hard, glazed tar which is almost impossible to remove, except by a certified professional chimney sweep”

The online article has many more fireplace safety tips. To continue reading, please click on this link: https://www.nationwide.com/wood-stove-safety.jsp

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Candle Fire Statistics

10/25/2016 (Permalink)

“Nearly 10,000 residential fires are caused each year by the careless or inappropriate use of candles.

The National Candle Association urges consumers to always keep a burning candle within sight, keep candles away from anything combustible, and to keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.

• These bedroom fires caused 32% of deaths associated with candle fires and 47% of associated injuries.
• On average, 25 home candle fires are reported per day.
• Falling asleep was a factor in 11% percent of the home candle fires and 30% of the associated deaths.”

Source: http://candles.org/fire-safety-candles/candle-safety-rules/ Please click the link to continue reading the online article.

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Electrical Fire Facts

10/7/2016 (Permalink)

“According to the National Fire Protection Association, 47,700 home fires in the U.S. are caused by electrical failures or malfunctions each year. These fires result in 418 deaths, 1,570 injuries, and $1.4 billion in property damage. Overloaded electrical circuits are a major cause of residential fires. Help lower your risk of electrical fires by not overloading your electrical system.”  Source: http://www.esfi.org/resource/don-t-overload-your-home-545

Please click the link above to read more about electrical safety.

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Fire Prevention Week-Candles

10/6/2016 (Permalink)

• “During 2009-2013, candles caused 3% of home fires, 3% of home fire deaths, 6% of home fire injuries, and 5% of direct property damage from home fires.
• On average, there are 25 home candle fires reported per day.
• More than one-third of these fires (36%) started in the bedroom; however, the candle industry found that only 13% of candle users burn candles in the bedroom most often.
• Nearly three in five candle fires start when things that can burn are too close to the candle.
• Falling asleep was a factor in 11% of the home candle fires and 30% of the associated deaths.”

Source: http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week/fast-facts-about-fire

 (http://www.firepreventionweek.org):

Click the link to continue reading more of the online article.

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Fire Prevention Week-Cooking

10/5/2016 (Permalink)

• “U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated annual average of 162,400 cooking-related fires between 2009-2013 resulting in 430 civilian deaths, 5,400 civilian injuries and 1.1 billion in direct damage.
• Two of every five home fires started in the kitchen.
• Unattended cooking was a factor in one-third of reported home cooking fires.
• Two-thirds of home cooking fires started with ignition of food or other cooking materials.
• Ranges accounted for three of every five (61%) home cooking fire incidents. Ovens accounted for 13%.
• Children under five face a higher risk of non-fire burns associated with cooking and hot food and drinks than of being hurt in a cooking fire.”

Source: http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week/fast-facts-about-fire

Click the link to continue reading more of the online article.

 (http://www.firepreventionweek.org):

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Fire Prevention Week-Smoke Alarms

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

• “Three out of five home fire deaths in 2009-2013 were caused by fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.
• Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in reported home fires in half.
• In fires considered large enough to activate the smoke alarm, hardwired alarms operated 94% of the time, while battery powered alarms operated 80% of the time.
• When smoke alarms fail to operate, it is usually because batteries are missing, disconnected, or dead.”

Source: http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week/fast-facts-about-fire

Click the link to continue reading more of the online article.

 (http://www.firepreventionweek.org):

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Fire Prevention Week-Fire Facts

10/2/2016 (Permalink)

• “Half of home fire deaths result from fires reported between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. when most people are asleep. Only one in five home fires were reported during these hours.
• One quarter of home fire deaths were caused by fires that started in the bedroom. Another quarter resulted from fires in the living room, family room or den.
• Three out of five home fire deaths happen from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.
• In 2014, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 367,500 home structure fires. These fires caused 2,745 deaths, 11,825 civilian injuries, and $6.8 billion in direct damage.
• On average, seven people die in U.S. home fires per day.”

Source: http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week/fast-facts-about-fire

Click the link to continue reading more of the online article.

 (http://www.firepreventionweek.org):

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Coming Soon-Fire Prevention Week

9/26/2016 (Permalink)

“Fire Prevention Week was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire, the tragic 1871 conflagration that killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures and burned more than 2,000 acres. The fire began on October 8, but continued into and did most of its damage on October 9, 1871.

Commemorating a conflagration
According to popular legend, the fire broke out after a cow - belonging to Mrs. Catherine O'Leary - kicked over a lamp, setting first the barn, then the whole city on fire. Chances are you've heard some version of this story yourself; people have been blaming the Great Chicago Fire on the cow and Mrs. O'Leary, for more than 130 years. But recent research by Chicago historian Robert Cromie has helped to debunk this version of events”

Source: http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week/about-fire-prevention-week

Click the link to continue reading more of the online article.

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Furnace Filters

8/3/2016 (Permalink)

According to our friend’s blog at Smylie One http://smylieone.com/furnace/furnace-filter-facts-the-two-most-popular-questions/

“Replacing the furnace air filter is one of the most basic and inexpensive things you can do to keep your system working properly and optimally.  To use an analogy, the purpose for having a filter is similar to a person’s respiratory system.  This may not make any sense right now, but stay with me and it will become clear.  A basic necessity of life is to breathe in and out.  Each of us has small hairs in our noses which are there to capture dust particles so that they don’t get into our lungs.  Your furnace filter does the same thing for your furnace; it traps all kinds of particles before they get a chance to reach and cause damage to the furnace.”  Click the link above to continue reading the online blog by Smylie One.

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike at 216-464-4498….here to help!  We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you and your home or company safe.

Cleaning Up After a Home or Building Fire

7/26/2016 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

(Source of the quoted information provided: http://www.SERVPROvisalia.com/blog)

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike 216-464-4498….here to help!

We service Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland, South Euclid, Lyndhurst, and Pepper Pike and surrounding communities.

Fire Extinguishers Types

7/1/2016 (Permalink)

There are many types of fire extinguishers. Below is a snippet copied directly from: http://toolboxtopics.com/Gen%20Industry/Emergency,%20Where's%20the%20Fire%20Extinguisher.htm  “The vast majority of portable, hand held fire extinguishers are loaded with a dry chemical powder that will extinguish the majority of fires you might encounter in your daily environment. This powder is not toxic but will make you sneeze and cough if you inhale it. (It tastes like sodium bicarbonate which is its base powder.) This powder will extinguish Class "A", "B", and "C" fires.

·         Class "A" fires involve material such as paper, plastic, wood and other common combustibles.

·         Class "B" fires involve grease, oil or gasoline. Dry chemical extinguishers will work, but these fires can be harder to extinguish and should be approached with extreme caution.

·         Class "C" fires involve burning electrical motors or transformer. This type of fire changes from "C" to Class "A" or "B" as soon as the power is cut off (or shorts out). Dry chemical can be used here also because it will not conduct electricity and will put out "A" or "B" type fires.”

Please click the source link provided above to continue reading and learning!

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid/Lyndhurst/Pepper Pike 216-464-4498...Here to help

June is National Safety Month-Pet Fire Safety

6/21/2016 (Permalink)

Pets can causes fires just like people. According to http://www.nfpa.org/public-education, pets account for starting approximately 700 home fires per year.  Pets knock things over, bump into things and are just plain curious.  This could lead to fires.  It is important to keep our pets away from candles, space heaters, electrical cords, cooking devices and more.  When planning your household escape plan, remember your pets. With that said, in an actual fire event, never go back inside for your pets once you are out safely.

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid/Lyndhurst/Pepper Pike 216-464-4498...Here to help! 

This information was copied from the above link as a source of information and was not written by SERVPRO of Beachwood.

(Source: http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets )

June is National Safety Month- Fire Prevention

6/20/2016 (Permalink)

Awareness is the start to preventing a fire in your home.  Having a smoke detector, sprinkler system and an escape plan in place are just the first steps in prevention.  There are many resources online to get you the information needed.   Here are just a few of the many websites that you can locate online:

 https://www.usfa.fema.gov/

http://www.nfpa.org/news-and-research/fire-statistics-and-reports/fire-statistics/fires-in-the-us/overall-fire-problem/fire-loss-in-the-united-states

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/technology/

Please remember these are just a few of the many websites online.  It’s up to you to research all the information and find what works for you and your family. 

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid/Lyndhurst/Pepper Pike 216-464-4498...Here to help! 

After the fire trucks are gone, your Beachwood home and belongings likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Beachwood / Shaker Heights / Cleveland Heights has the specialized fire and water damage cleanup and restoration training and experience to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

June is National Safety Month-Smoke Alarms

6/17/2016 (Permalink)

Photo Source: https://www.amazon.com/Kidde-Hardwire-Ionization-Detector-Battery/dp/B001XQ5VHW

Every home and business should have working smoke alarms.  Batteries need to be changed at least twice a year.  A good time to change batteries is in the fall and spring when changing our clocks.

The following tips were provided by and copied directly from: http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/smoke-alarms

 (Source: http://www.nfpa.org/education ©NFPA 2016 http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets). 

Please click on the link to continue reading for more tips!

·         Install smoke alarms inside and outside each bedroom and sleeping area.

·         Install alarms on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement.

·         Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.

·         It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds they all sound.

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

This information was copied from the above link as a source of information and was not written by SERVPRO of Beachwood.

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid/Lyndhurst/Pepper Pike 216-464-4498...Here to help

June is National Safety Month- Electronic Cigarettes

6/16/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid/Lyndhurst/Pepper Pike 216-464-4498...Here to help! 

When smoking you have to be sure to follow safety procedures to prevent fires.  Did you know that electronic cigarettes can cause fires?  According to the NFPA website (see source link below):

“Fires have occurred while e-cigarettes were being used, the battery was being charged, or the device was being transported. Battery failures have led to small explosions. Never leave charging e-cigarettes unattended. E-cigarettes should be used with caution.”

Also:

“The risk of dying in a home structure fire caused by smoking materials rises with age.  One out of four fatal victims of smoking-material fires is not the smoker whose cigarette started the fire.”

Sources: “Reproduced from NFPA’s website, http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets. ©2016 NFPA.”  

June is National Safety Month- Fire Escape Tips

6/15/2016 (Permalink)

Having a good plan in place can save your life, your families and your pets!

Here are a few fire escape tips copied directly from the link provided.  Please click the link to find more tips and information as this is just a snippet of the online article to get you started: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/fief/up_in_smoke_parents_brochure.pdf

·         “You have a fire escape plan for your home.

·         You know two ways out of every room.

·         You know the best way to take your baby outside if there is a fire.

·         You practice the plan with everyone who lives in your home at least twice a year.

·         You have a meeting place outside.

·         Everyone knows how to call 9-1-1 from outside to report a fire.”

Please click the link above to read more about fire safety.

Learn more by visiting: www.usfa.fema.gov

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid/Lyndhurst/Pepper Pike 216-464-4498...Here to help! 

June is National Safety Month- Home Fire Safety

6/14/2016 (Permalink)

The following information snippet was located and copied from the online link below: 

http://www.nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/safety-at-home-fires-burns.aspx

“Over the past several decades, deaths from home structure fires in the United States have steadily gone down – from 5,200 in 1980 to 2,755 in 2013, according to Injury Facts 2016®.

But even one death from a preventable fire is too many. While fire doesn't discriminate by age, it is the third leading cause of death for children ages 2 to 14. In 2013, 202 children in this age group died from fire and smoke inhalation.” 

Please click the link above to read more regarding fires in homes and safety. 

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid/Lyndhurst/Pepper Pike 216-464-4498...Here to help! 

This information was copied from the above link as a source of information and was not written by SERVPRO of Beachwood.

Generator Fire Hazards

4/19/2016 (Permalink)

The following was copied directly from: https://www.firstenergycorp.com/help/safety/using-electricity/backup-generators.html#hazards

"Backup generators can pose a risk of shock and electrocution, especially if they are operated in wet conditions. Because generators must be operated outdoors, it is important to pay special attention to weather and environmental conditions to prevent electrical accidents.

Follow these important electrical safety tips at all times when operating your backup generator:

• Operate the generator on a dry surface where water cannot reach it, or puddle or drain under it.
• Dry your hands, if wet, before touching the generator.
• If you must use a generator in wet conditions, protect the generator from moisture (as described in the owner's manual) to help avoid shock or electrocution hazard. This should be done without operating the generator indoors or near openings to any building that can be occupied in order to help avoid CO hazards.
• NEVER try to power home wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet, a practice known as "backfeeding." This is extremely dangerous and presents an electrocution risk to utility workers and neighbors served by the same circuit. It also bypasses some of the built-in household circuit protection devices.

When connecting appliances to the generator using an extension cord, follow these steps:

• Use heavy-duty extension cords that are specifically designed for outdoor use.
• Make sure the wattage rating for each cord exceeds the total wattage of all appliances connected to it.
• Use extension cords that are long enough to allow the generator to be placed outdoors and far away from windows, doors and vents to the home or to other structures that could be occupied.
• Check that the entire length of each cord is free of cuts or tears and that the plug has all three (or four) prongs.
• Protect the cord from getting pinched or crushed, and follow all cord safety labels including any limits on cord length.

In addition, use care when handling and storing fuel for your generator to avoid potential fire hazards:

• Never store fuel for your generator inside the home. Gasoline, propane, kerosene, and other flammable liquids should be stored outside of living areas in properly-labeled, non-glass safety containers. Do not store any of these substances near a fuel-burning appliance, such as a natural gas water heater in a garage.
• Before refueling a generator, turn it off and let it cool down for at least two minutes before removing the fuel cap. Gasoline spilled on hot engine parts could ignite. Never refuel a running portable generator."

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid/Lyndhurst/Pepper Pike 216-464-4498...Here to help!

Home Fires

4/7/2016 (Permalink)

The following was copied directly from https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

"Each year more than 2,500 people die and 12,600 are injured in home fires in the United States, with direct property loss due to home fires estimated at $7.3 billion annually.  Home fires can be prevented!

To protect yourself, it is important to understand the basic characteristics of fire. Fire spreads quickly; there is no time to gather valuables or make a phone call. In just two minutes, a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames.

Heat and smoke from fire can be more dangerous than the flames. Inhaling the super-hot air can sear your lungs. Fire produces poisonous gases that make you disoriented and drowsy. Instead of being awakened by a fire, you may fall into a deeper sleep. Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by a three-to-one ratio."

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid/Lyndhurst/Pepper Pike 216-464-4498

Fire Prevention Tips

3/30/2016 (Permalink)

The following was taken directly from: https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

"Most home fires occur in the kitchen while cooking and are the leading cause of injuries from fire. Common causes of fires at night are carelessly discarded cigarettes, sparks from fireplaces without spark screens or glass doors, and heating appliances left too close to furniture or other combustibles. These fires can be particularly dangerous because they may smolder for a long period before being discovered by sleeping residents.

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

Cooking

• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.
• Do not cook if you are sleepy, have been drinking alcohol, or have taken medicine that makes you drowsy.
• Keep children away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of 3 feet around the stove.
• Position barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

Smoking

• If you smoke, smoke outside. Most home fires caused by smoking materials start inside the home. Put your cigarettes out in a can filled with sand.
• Make sure cigarettes and ashes are out. The cigarette really needs to be completely stubbed out in an ashtray. Soak cigarette butts and ashes in water before throwing them away. Never toss hot cigarette butts or ashes in the trash can.
• Check for cigarette butts. Chairs and sofas catch on fire fast and burn fast. Don't put ashtrays on them. If people have been smoking in the home, check for cigarettes under cushions.
• Never smoke in a home where oxygen is used, even if it is turned off. Oxygen can be explosive and makes fire burn hotter and faster.
• Be alert - don’t smoke in bed! If you are sleepy, have been drinking, or have taken medicine that makes you drowsy, put your cigarette out first.

Electrical and Appliance Safety

• Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
• Buy electrical products evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
• Use electrical extension cords wisely; never overload extension cords or wall sockets.
• Immediately shut off, then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to the touch and lights that flicker.

Portable Space Heaters

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

Fireplaces and Woodstoves

• Inspect and clean woodstove pipes and chimneys annually and check monthly for damage or obstructions.
• Never burn trash, paper, or green wood.
• Use a fireplace screen heavy enough to stop rolling logs and big enough to cover the entire opening of the fireplace to catch flying sparks.
• Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the house or going to bed.
• Store cooled ashes in a tightly sealed metal container outside the home.

Children

• Take the mystery out of fire play by teaching children that fire is a tool, not a toy.
• Store matches and lighters out of children's reach and sight, preferably in a locked cabinet.
• Teach children not to pick up matches or lighters they may find. Instead, they should tell an adult immediately.
• Never leave children unattended near operating stoves or burning candles, even for a short time.
• Check under beds and in closets for burned matches, evidence your child may be playing with fire.

More Prevention Tips

• Avoid using lighted candles.
• Never use the range or oven to heat your home.
• Replace mattresses made before the 2007 Federal Mattress Flammability Standard. Mattresses made since then are required by law to be safer.
• Keep combustible and flammable liquids away from heat sources.
• Portable generators should NEVER be used indoors and should only be refueled outdoors or in well ventilated areas."

Read more at: https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid/Lyndhurst/Pepper Pike 216-464-4498

Grease Fire and Baking Soda

3/7/2016 (Permalink)

Have a grease fire in your kitchen?  NEVER use water! Use a fire extinguisher or baking soda.  Watch the Today Show's video link for more information.

http://www.today.com/video/how-to-put-out-a-grease-fire-in-the-kitchen-any-why-you-should-never-use-water-484572227781

 "Baking soda is chemically known as sodium bicarbonate. When heated to a high temperature, the chemical properties of this salt make it produce lots of carbon dioxide and remove oxygen. This then totally reduces the amount of oxygen in the surrounding atmosphere and puts the fire out. This reaction also produces a small quantity of water and sodium carbonate as by products."  (Source http://humantouchofchemistry.com/why-does-baking-soda-extinguish-fires.htm)

Home Fires In The Winter

2/22/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights and SERVPRO of South Euclid/Lyndhurst/Pepper Pike 216-464-4498.

Did you know that home fires occur more often during the winter than in any other season? Make sure you're prepared! (Source: SERVPRO Corp.)

Christmas Tree Fire Facts

12/4/2013 (Permalink)

Facts from http://www.nfpa.org::

• One of every three home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical failures. 


• Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious. 


• A heat source too close to the tree causes roughly one in every six of the fires.

Cooking Fire Information

11/20/2013 (Permalink)

If you have a cooking fire

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


• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.


• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.


• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.


• For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Information obtained from: http://www.nfpa.org

Fire Damage in Beachwood, Ohio

11/5/2013 (Permalink)

Fire Clean Up in Beachwood, Ohio

A grease fire was the cause of this kitchen fire in beachwood, Ohio.  SERVPRO of Beachwood was called to clean up all the soot.