Space Heater Safety Tips

1/15/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® technicians are specially trained in both fire and water damage restoration, using specialized equipment, tools and products.

When the temperature drops, portable space heaters can be a convenient source of supplemental heat for your home. But they can also pose a safety risk, no matter where you use them. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, portable space heaters are responsible for 1,700 house fires a year. If you are relying on a portable heater for supplemental heat, it's important to make space heater safety a priority.

 Space Heater Safety Tips

• Turn the space heater off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Keep anything flammable at least 3 feet away from heating source.
• Never plug a space heater into a power strip.
• Check the heater certifications.
• Do not allow children or pets to play close to a space heater.
• Inspect the heater for cracked or broken plugs, and loose connections.
• Smoke alarms should be on every level of your home and outside all sleeping areas.
• Always have a fire extinguisher close by.
• Place the space heater on a flat level surface.
• Read the user’s manual and use according to manufacturer specifications.
• Buy a unit with an automatic shutoff in case the unit tips over.
• Space heaters should never be considered an adequate replacement for a HVAC unit.
• Water should never be used to put out an electrical fire.
• Purchase a heater with overheat protection. The heater will automatically shut off its internal components gets too hot.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms to avoid the risk of CO poisoning.
• Don’t leave space haters in high traffic areas and doorways, where people could trip over them.
• Buy a heater that is the correct size for the area you want to heat.
• Keep vents clear of dust and debris.

 Staying warm through the winter is important for safety as well as comfort, and for some people space heaters may be the best way to do that. Using them properly and taking precautions can add another layer of comfort, knowing that you are being as safe as possible. Practicing good safety measures can dramatically reduce the risk of a house fire, but accidents can and do happen. If your home or business has suffered from a fire or smoke damage call the professionals at SERVPRO® of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes for 24/7 Emergency Services.

Summer Fire Safety

7/31/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes for all your fire restoration needs. 712-262-4379.

Nothing says summer in Northwest Iowa like warm temps, backyard barbecues, pool parties, camping trips, and fireworks. With these fun activities we should also remain aware of the increased risk of fire during these months. According to the U.S. Fire Administration more fires are reported on July 4^th than any other day of the year. Brush and outside fires increase substantially due to family outings and the misuse of fireworks. Being aware of what causes summer fires, makes us better able to prevent one from happening.

July is the peak month for grill fires, followed by June, May, and August.

Common Causes of Grill Fires

• Failure to clean the grill, including the grease trap.
• Having the grill too close to something that could catch fire.
• Leaving a grill unattended.
• Leaving the lid open while cooking
• Using combustible liquids like gas and lighter fluid that don’t completely evaporate when lit.

On average, 180 people go to the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the 4^th of July. We encourage anyone celebrating with fireworks practice the “Four BE’S”

• Be Prepared

Store fireworks out of children’s reach. Always read and follow label directions. Place pets indoors. Always have water handy (garden hose or bucket of water).

• Be Responsible

Soak used fireworks thoroughly in a bucket of water. Dispose of used fireworks and debris properly. Never re-light “dud” fireworks. Wait 15-20 minutes then soak it in a bucket of water.

• Be Safe

An adult should always light fireworks. Keep matches and lighters away from children. Use fireworks outdoors only. Light only one firework at a time and move away quickly. Keep children and pets away from fireworks. Always remember, do not throw fireworks, or hold them in your hand.

• Be Aware

Use only legal fireworks and only in legal places. Fireworks are prohibited on all state parks, and state or federal forest lands.

Restoring your home after fire damage is our main goal. As a leading fire damage restoration company, we specialize in removing the water after firefighting efforts. Our team of professionals will assess the damage and handle the fire cleanup and fire damage restoration.

Campfire Safety

7/31/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes for all your fire restoration needs. 712-262-4379

Unintentional actions are the leading cause of outside fires. Keep fire safety in mind when enjoying summer activities. Enjoying the pop and hiss of a glowing campfire is one of the most enjoyable parts of camping. Building fires comes with responsibility. A fire that is not properly built, maintained, and extinguished can quickly become a hazard. In the U.S., people start nearly 9 out of 10 wildfires. Campfires are an essential part of the camping experience. The best way to keep those memories from becoming a nightmare is to follow some simple yet important campfire safety tips.

Campfire Safety

Create a Safety Zone – Clear a 3-foot area starting at the base of the fire pit and going out in all directions. Point this safety zone out to children by marking it with sticks, bricks, or glow-in-the-dark spray paint tape. Young children should stay out of this area.

Conduct a Pre-fire Safety Briefing – Point out the safety zone as a reminder to young children. Remind children to not touch anything that has been in or near the fire. Show everyone where the water bucket is in case you need to put out the fire quickly. Practice stop, drop, and roll technique.

Fire Building is for Adults – Set the expectation that building the fire is a job for adults only. Let children help by gathering sticks. Only use natural materials and matches to start a fire. Accelerants like gas, lighter fluid, kerosene, or alcohol can lead to serious injury.

Keep Your Fire Small – Everyone loves the allure of a roaring fire, but it’s not necessary. Small fires still produce an enjoyable amount of heat and light.

Clear Away Dead/Dry Debris – Do a quick sweep around the perimeter of your firepit to clear dead leaves, twigs, and other natural fuel sources.

Never Leave a Fire Unattended – Although it may be tempting to leave a fire smoldering while you step away, you should never leave your fire unattended.

Extinguish Fires Completely – Make sure to completely extinguish a fire before going to sleep or leaving your site. To put out a campfire, use the “drown, stir, and feel” method. Drown the fire with water. Stir the ashes and coals with a shovel to smother the fire. Feel the area to make sure it’s cool to the touch. You may need to repeat this process several times before your campfire is completely out. Keep extra water close by in case of an emergency.

SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes offers residential and commercial property damage restoration and general contracting services. Our team is reliable, easy to work with, and will provide proactive communication with our customers.

Close Before You Doze

11/3/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business is in need of fire damage restoration, call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes 712-262-4379.

Just a few decades ago the average time it took to escape a home fire was about 17 minutes. Now it’s 3 minutes or less. This is because of synthetic furniture, more open floor plans in homes, and other flammable materials. Simply closing your bedroom door at night can give you more time to get out safely and call the fire department. A closed bedroom door can slow the spread of flames, decrease temperatures, reduce smoke inhalation, and improve oxygen levels in the room.

Closing a bedroom door can mean a difference of 1,000 degrees in a room with an open door and 100 degrees in a room with a closed door. It can also significantly keep down carbon monoxide levels. By limiting a fires ability to spread, closing your bedroom door at night also gives you more time to react when the smoke alarms go off.

Remember, prevent home fires by making sure to blow out candles, never leave food cooking unattended, turn off and unplug hot electronics and hair tools, remove dryer lint after each use, and make sure you have working smoke alarms and fire extinguishers.

SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home or business to pre-fire condition. We will work with your insurance company for a stress-free claims process.

Prevent Fires During the Holidays

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is available 24/7 for all your fire damage emergencies. 712-262-4379

Fall and winter holidays are exciting times to gather with family and friends, enjoy decorations and eat festive foods. Unfortunately, these holiday festivities can also present unique fire hazards. There are more residential fires during the colder months of the year, and are primarily caused by cooking, electrical malfunctions, and heating, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Don’t let a house fire take the joy out of celebrating the holidays, by taking appropriate precautions to ensure the safety of your guests and home.

Kitchen

According to the NFPA, cooking accounted for 49% of home fires, was the leading cause of injuries and was the second contributing factor of fire-related deaths.

• Keep flammable items away from the stovetop, including oven mitts, potholders, food packaging and dishtowels. Avoid wearing loose clothing, that could catch fire on burners.
• Never leave food cooking unattended. When using the stovetop, stay in the kitchen. Set a timer if you have something in the oven.
• Exercise caution when handling hot liquids and foods, as steam or splashes can cause serious burns, as well as the pans and serving dishes they are in.
• Keep the floor clear of any tripping hazards. Pets should be kept in another room where they won’t risk getting under your feet.
• Be alert while using the stove. If you are tired or have consumed alcohol, it may be best to let someone else take over.
• Place hot liquids and foods in the center of the table, where they are less likely to be knocked over.
• To avoid any accidental burns, children should stay at least 3 feet away from the stove.

Decorations & Light Displays

Fresh Christmas trees can set the tone for the holiday season, but they can also be a nightmare in the event of a fire. About a third of tree fires are caused by electrical problems and one in five home fires that started with a Christmas tree were too close to a heat source.

• Keep fresh tree stands filled with water at all times, and when the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly.
• Make sure to inspect lights for frayed wire or other defects before use and use only non-flammable decorations.
• Real-flame candles add a beautiful ambience to the holiday festivities, but their use adds a degree of risk for fire.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything that can burn, including furniture, drapes, bedding, carpet, books, paper, and flammable decorations.
• Lit candles should be in sight and blow them out when you leave a room or go to bed.
• Decorative lights give many homes and neighborhoods a festive glow during the long winter nights. Just be mindful not to overcrowd outlets. Electrical malfunctions are the cause of half of all devastating residential fires.
• Follow the manufacture’s directions when using lights and always unplug the lights before you go to bed or leave your home. 

Space Heaters

When the temperature drops, portable space heaters can be a convenient source of supplemental heat for your home. Make sure yours using yours correctly.

• Check the cord for cracks and make sure the plug isn’t broken. Make sure the connection is secure. If the cord or plug is frayed or damaged, do not use the space heater.
• When leaving the room or sleeping turn the space heater off.
• Never let pets or children play too close to the heater.
• Do not leave space heater in high traffic areas because they are a tripping hazard.
• Never use an extension cord or power strip to power space heaters.
• Make sure space heaters are kept at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn.
• A space heater is meant to provide supplemental heat only. They should never be used to warm linens, cook food or dry clothing.

If disaster strikes, call the fire and water restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa great Lakes.

Fire Prevention Month

9/28/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes 712-262-4379.

October is National Fire Prevention Month and that means it’s time for us all to take the precautionary steps to prevent dangerous and life-threatening fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, seven people die every day from home fires on average, taking more lives each year than all other natural disasters in the U.S. During the winter months the NFPA sees an increase in home fires, deaths, and injuries. When it comes to keeping our families and homes safe, there are steps we can take to prevent fires.

HOME SAFETY TIPS

• Install smoke and CO alarms on every level and in every bedroom
• Test alarms regularly
• Replace alarm batteries every six months
• Alarms don’t last forever, remember to replace alarms at least every 10 years
• Keep a fire extinguisher on every level and know how to use it
• Plan and practice an escape route with your family
• If your alarms sound, leave immediately for fresh air and call 911

No one wants to think about a fire, but they happen more often than you think. In the unfortunate event that your home or business suffers from fire, smoke, or soot damage call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Dryer Vent Warning Signs

7/29/2022 (Permalink)

Need help cleaning other areas of your home or business? We offer services to keep carpets, upholstered furniture, tile floors & more looking great!

Keeping your dryer vents clean is important for a number of reasons which include not only energy savings but safety. Lint is an extremely flammable susbtance. While cleaning the dryer trap yourself is a good start, it's no substitute for a deep professional cleaning. 

Safety

Lint buildup presents a serious fire hazard. An estimated 15,000 home fires could be prevented each year with proper dryer vent cleaning. 

Shorter Drying Times

A dryer that's clogged with lint takes more time to dry clothes because the proper amount of hot air is not reaching your dryer. If your dryer is running longer than normal or more that one cycle per load, you're slowly decreasing the life span of your dryer. 

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning 

If your gas dryer is not properly maintained, carbon monoxide becomes a risk. Carbon monoxide is odorless, color-less and toxic. It can cause flu-like symptoms. When lint is clogging your dryer vents it is hard for fumes to exhaust properly. 

Allergens & Mold 

The role of your dryer is to eliminate all traces of moisture from your clothing. When a dryer vent is clogged, the lingering damp lint that is trapped inside the vent creates the perfect home for allergens and mold to grow. 

How Often is Cleaning Necessary?

Professionals recommend cleaning your lint trap vent after every load and dryer vents at least once per year. You may want to clean the dryer vent more often if you have a large family, pets, frequently purchase new clothing, or frequently wash bulky blankets and towels that produce more lint. 

If you are noticing signs that your dryer is not working as it should, or signs of a clogged vent, it's time to call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes. We specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. 

P.A.S.S.

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business is in need of fire restoration, call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes.

Purchasing and properly maintaining smoke alarms is by far the best home-safety investment you can make. Take the next step in fire protection by keeping at least one fire extinguisher on every floor of your home, including the basement and attic, if you have them. Garages, sheds, and workshops are typically full of combustible materials, be sure to keep a fire extinguisher close by. 

Fire extinguishers play a vital role in any fire protection plan and can help prevent catastrophic damage to property and even loss of life. They can mean the difference between a small localised incident that is quickly put out, or a raging inferno. 

Different Classes of Extinguishers

There are different types of extinguishing agents found in fire extinguishers, such as water, carbon dioxide, clean agents and dry chemical. The most common type unit found in most retail stores is the multi purpose dry chemical type. This type is important because it is classified  "ABC," which means it can be used on the main three types of fires:

A - Odidinary Combustibles (wood, paper, cloth and many plastics)

B - Flammable Liquids (gas, oil and grease)

C - Electrical Equipment (computers, fuse boxes, circuit breakers, machinery and appliances) 

D - Combustible metal (sodium, magnesium, titanium, sirconium, lithium or potassium)

K - Combustible cooking media (Vegetable or animal oils and fats) 

Once you have selected the proper type of extinguisher make sure to install it in a visible area. A fire extinguisher does not command a large storage space. Their compact designs make them a good fit near areas where fires typically break out, such as near your stove. 

How  to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Pull the pin while holding the extinguisher away from you to unlock the mechanism.

Aim low toward the base of the fire.

Squeese the lever slowly.

Sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the fire. 

Every extinguisher has steps and precautions on it. Review them from time to time before there's an emergency. Inspect your fire extinguisher regularly to ensure the pressure gauge is in the operable range and the unit is not damaged or expired. 

Knowing how to properly use a fire extinguisher could save your life in an emergency. However, before you use a fire extinguisher to put out a fire, it is very important that you determine whether or not it's appropriate for you to be fighting the fire, and whether or not you'll be able to put it out. If you have any doubts, evacuate the building immediately and call 911. If you have any questions about fire, smoke, or soot damage call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes at (712) 262-4379. 

Faster To Any Size Disaster

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes for Fire or Smoke Damage Emergencies 712-262-4379

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals 

• Provide 24/7 Emergency Service
• Highly trained fire and water restoration specialists 
• Faster to any size disaster 
• A trusted leader in the restoration industry with over 1,700 franchises
• Preferred vendor for many national and local insurance companies

Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today (712) 262-4379

The Fire Damage Restoration Process

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals know just how devastating a fire can be. Fire and water damage can leave your house uninhabitable. Our team is trained to clean and restore your home with as little disruption as possible. 

Fire Damage Restoration Process

Step 1: Emergency Contact 

Step 2: Inspection & Fire Damage Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up & Roof Tarp Service

Step 4: Water Removal & Drying 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke & Soot From All Surfaces 

Step 6: Cleaning & Repair 

Step 7: Restoration 

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 your property with care. 

Are Space Heaters Safe?

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of spencer & Iowa Great Lakes specializes in cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire.

When the temperature drops, portable space heaters can be a convenient source of supplemental heat for your home. But as reports of triggered house fires continue to grab headlines, many people are wondering: are portable heaters dangerous? No, unless yours is really old or you're using it incorrectly. According to the NFPA in 2018 heating equipment was the second-leading cause of U.S. home fires and the third-leading cause of home fire deaths. 

Space Heater Safety Tips 

• Do not plug them into a power strip! Space heaters should be plugged directly into a wall outlet. Do not plug any other electrical devices into the same outlet as the heater. Because of the energy load and extra electrical current flow that a space heater generates, if it is plugged into a power strip, it could overheat and result in a fire. 
• Choose a heater that has been tested, approved and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. 
• Never leave the room while the space heater is on. 
• If the heaters plugs, connections or power cord is frayed, damaged, worn or lose, do not use the space heater. 
• Always read and follow the instructions and heed warning labels. 
• Don't leave a space heater on while you are sleeping. 
• Make sure you have functional smoke alarms throughout your  home. Test them regularly and change the batteries every six months. Fire extinguishers can be a small but important part of the home fire safety plan. They can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or suppressing it until the fire department arrives. 
• Keep children and pets away from the space heater when it is plugged in. 
• Space heaters are only meant to provide supplemental heating, no cooking, drying clothing or thawing frozen pipes. 
• Position your space heaters so that they are at least three feet away from anything that can burn such as furniture, drapes, pillows, bedding and paper. 
• Position space heaters on the floor where the surface is level and flat. 
• Keep heaters away from high foot-traffic areas to reduce the chance of them being tripped over and/or otherwise being kicked over. 
• Do not put space heaters on chairs, furniture, counters or tables where they will be unstable and/or could overheat and catch fire. 
• Don not put anything over the top of a space heater. 
• Unplug space heaters when not in use. 
• Clean, inspect and maintain your space heater in good working order. 
• Purchase a heater with tip-over protection, which means the space heater will automatically shut off if it is tipped over. 
• Purchase a heater with overheat protection, which means the space heater will automatically shut off if its internal components get too hot. 
• This should go without saying, but electricity and water are an even deadlier combination than orange juice and toothpaste. Keep your space heater out of bathrooms and kitchens. 

Space heaters should never be considered an adequate replacement for a HVAC unit, but moderate, safe use of a space heater can be a good, simple way to save money and stay warm. Always remember that if a fire breaks out, it can be tempting to douse the flames with water, but water should never be used to put out an electrical fire. Water conducts electricity, and dumping water on or near a power source can give you a severe electrical shock. It could even make the fire worse. Water can conduct the electricity to other parts of the room, running the risk of igniting other flammable objects nearby. If your home or business has suffered from fire or smoke damage call the professionals at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes for 24/7 emergency services. 

Fireplace Safety Tips

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is available 24/7 for all of your Fire Damage needs 712-262-4379

Fireplaces might add the ambiance of warmth and tranquility to your home, but that cozy, crackling glow also conceals an ash pan of potential problems. Enjoying a warm, cozy fire requires a clean, safe fireplace. Here are some tips for keeping it that way. 

• Make sure your damper is open before using your fireplace.
• Don't forget to close it when you are done. 
• If your damper is broken you will need to fix or replace it.
• Keep flammable items away from your fireplace. 
• Don't let children or animals play near a fire.
• Use dry cured hardwoods like oak, elm, or maple. Manufactured logs and kindling are also an option.
• Inspect the structure. Do a quick walk around looking for structural integrity both inside and out of the fireplace.
• Check the flue. You should be able to see daylight when you look up.
• Reduce creosote build-up. Creosote is tar-like, flaky stuff that can lead to chimney fires. 
• Invest in glass doors. 
• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Make sure your chimney is clean. 
• Keep fireplace tools away from children.
• Clean ashes after every burn. Ashes can stay hot for several days. Always dispose of them in a proper container. 
• Have a smoke and carbon monoxide detector nearby.
• Have a fire extinguisher nearby.
• Have your chimney inspected each year before you start a fire.

Fireplace safety is key to keeping your home and family safe from fires while enjoying your fireplace. If your home has suffered from fire or soot damage call the professionals at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes. We off 24/7 Emergency Service. 

Backyard Fire Pit Safety

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes for Fire or Smoke Damage Emergencies 712-262-4379

A backyard fire pit is a great way to sit back, relax, and stay warm at night, but it can also be dangerous and cause a lot of damage. Playing with fire is no joke. Before you light up a blaze, take some time to reacquaint yourself with the basics of backyard fire safety. 

Backyard Fire Pit Safety Tips 

• Check wind direction before lighting a fire.
• Don't use flammable fluids (gasoline, lighter fluid, etc.) to light or relight fires.
• Don't wear flammable clothing (like nylon) or any loose-fitting clothing.
• Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the fire.
• Avoid using soft woods like pine or cedar, because they can pop and throw sparks.
• Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose or bucket of water nearby.
• Dispose of ashes, once they have cooled put them in a metal container and pour water on them.
• Never light your fire underneath the overhang of a building or beneath trees.
• Keep the immediate area around the pit clear of yard waste and other flammable materials.
• Keep all chairs at a safe distance from the fire pit.
• Never leave a fire unattended. 
• Before you light the kindling, check to see if there's a no-burn advisory in effect. 
• Consider investing in a spark screen to help maintain the flame.
• Invest in proper fire pit tools and top-quality fire pits that are designed with your safety in mind. 
• Check with your insurance company as disclosure of your fire pit may be a requirement of your policy. 

Fire pits are a great way to unwind, spend time with friends and family, and create long lasting memories. Following these must-know safety tips will ease your worries and help prevent unwanted damage to you or your property. 

Fire Prevention Month

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (712) 262-4379

October has been designated as National Fire Prevention Month - a time when public service departments across America join forces to spread the word about fire safety. The goal is to raise fire safety awareness, and help ensure your home and family is protected. This is a perfect time to educate and talk with your whole family about fire safety. 

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), seven people die every day from home fires on average, taking more lives each year than all other natural disasters in the U.S. When it comes to keeping our families and homes safe, there are many steps we can take to prevent fires. 

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 and change the batteries every six months. 
• Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan at least 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. 

7 Ways to Prepare for a Home Fire

1. Install the right amount of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace batteries every six months.
2. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do if they hear one. 
3. Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home. 
4. Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another. 
5. Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell "Fire" to alert everyone that they must get out. 
6. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
7. Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire. 

The Importance of Fire Extinguishers

Just how critical are fire extinguishers? Fire extinguishers are extremely important. In many cases they are the first line of defense and often contain or extinguish a fire, preventing costly damage or death. Fire extinguishers are often overlooked devices that can be a key component towards keeping you safe during a fire emergency situation. It's important to understand that with proper training and education, fire extinguishers can save lives and property. If you do not know how or when to use fire extinguishers contact your local fire department. 

5 Primary Types of Fire Extinguishers 

• A - Used for ordinary materials like cloth, wood and paper.
• B - Used for combustible and flammable liquids like grease, gasoline, oil and oil-based paints.
• C - Used with electrical equipment like appliances, tools, or other equipment that is plugged in. 
• D - For use with flammable metals.
• K - For use with vegetable oils, animal oils and fats in cooking appliances. 

There are also multipurpose fire extinguishers that might be labeled "B-C" or "A-B-C." Most home improvement stores carry multipurpose fire extinguishers that cover Class A through Class C. 

Teach People How to Use a Fire Extinguisher 

When operating a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS:

Pull the pin, Hole the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.

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

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

Sweep the nozzle from side to side. 

Importance of Fire Extinguisher Maintenance

Remember to check extinguishers for:

Easy access in an emergency

Be sure nothing is blocking or limiting your ability to reach it.

The recommended Pressure Level 

Many extinguishers have gauges that show when pressure is too high or too low.

Working Parts

Make sure the can, hoses and nozzles aren't damaged, dented, or rusted.

Cleanliness

Remove any dust, oil, or grease that might be on the outside of the extinguisher.

Guidelines and Instructions 

some extinguishers need to be shaken monthly, others need to be pressure tested every few years. 

Fires are a tragic occurrence that can have life-changing effects on many aspects of your family's lives. It's so important for everyone in your family to be aware of proper fire prevention and safety. While home fires are a risk for any family, taking the proper precautions and having a plan of action could be life-saving if the worst should ever happen.  In the unfortunate event that your home suffers a fire damage emergency SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is here for you with 24-Hour Emergency Service. Have any questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call us today - (712) 262-4379

Smoke And Soot Damage

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes provides 24/7 Emergency Service.

At SERVPRO we know that there are few events more devastating than a house fire. Not only is it a terrifying experience emotionally, but it can be a disastrous to your home, destroying personal possessions. In the aftermath of fire damage to your property, the unmistakable smell of smoke and appearance of soot are highly likely. 

We specialize in soot and smoke damage clean-up and restoration. After the flames are snuffed out, our team of professionals will start the process of putting your home back together. Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. We have the expertise that allows us to inspect and assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action. 

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We will work with your insurance company to bring your home back to pre-fire condition, but most importantly we will treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care. 

Fire Damage Tips

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes specializes in the cleanup and restoration of property that has been damaged by fire, smoke or water.

After suffering a house fire, it might be difficult to determine what to do and what not to do. A fire in your home can cause serious damage. Your home and belongings may be badly damaged by flames, heat, smoke, soot, and water. Contact your insurance company right away. 

What To Do After A Fire 

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

What Not To Do After A Fire

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

After a fire, many people will first react by wanting to clean up their home. Professionals are called for a reason-they do this for a living. You want to hire a restoration company to ensure that your property gets back to normal without endangering your health. One of the many advantages of hiring a professional restoration company is that they are fully equipped with protective gear. All of this gear is certified for handling soot and items affected by smoke or fire. If you choose to repair damage by yourself without being properly equipped, you put yourself in danger. 

When fire and water take control of your life, we help take it back. Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened." 

With Dry Conditions Use Extra Caution This Spring

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

Dry conditions leave NW Iowa with heightened concerns for fire damage.

Even though we saw a few days of much needed soaking rain, much of northwest Iowa remains extremely dry.  Now add in the blustery winds and you have a good recipe for fire warnings.  

While out visiting clients and attending the couple of home/vendor fairs we have had the opportunity to attend this year, I got the opportunity to speak with a few farmers in our area.  While many remain optimistic about the spring planting season, some were still concerned with how low the water table is.  Low water table typically means less yields and a slower economy.  

How does all of this pertain to fire damage, let me tell you.  First with the dry conditions and blustery winds that means our outdoor bonfires and even something as simple as flicking a cigarette butt can cause major damage.  All it takes is a single spark and that patch of leaves in the back yard or the weeds in the dry ditch begin to burn uncontrollably.  

There are times that many of us may believe we NEED to burn, and if that is the case then do so with caution.  It isn't just you or your home that is affected, soot damage can travel extreme distances and cause damage to those around you.  If you must burn remember these few things...

• Check to see if there is a burn ban in place, no sense in getting ticketed in the process.
• Burn during the calmest time of day and in the calmest area of your property.  
• Have a source of water or an extinguisher handy if conditions get out of control.
• Keep your cell phone nearby and charged in the event of a disaster.  
• In some cases it does not hurt to notify your local fire dept. of a controlled burn so they have proper staff on hand in the event things turn ugly.  

The last thing to remember is, if disaster strikes...call the team that's Faster to Any Disaster, SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes. 712-262-4379

Importance of Smoke Detectors in Your Home

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

October is Fire Prevention Month, each year SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes gives away a fire prevention gift pack to a family in need.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, 50% of all fatal home fires occur while people are sleeping. Firefighters in the US respond to a fire every 24 seconds. That is why smoke detectors are so essential. For many families smoke alarms are all that stand between their home and escaping a fire. Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries

Having smoke detectors placed in various locations around your home allows for fast and effective detection. The siren will warn you day or night, that there is a potential fire, allowing you to quickly check the nature of the problem and hopefully prevent any damage. When placed in the right location, the smoke alarm can also help firefighters quickly locate the fire in the home.

Since smoke rises, smoke detectors are always placed on the ceiling for ideal detection. The most common types of smoke detectors to choose from are photoelectric and ionization. It’s recommended that there are smoke detectors on each floor of your home, including the attic and basement. If doors to rooms are closed often, it is best to have one installed in those rooms.

To ensure that your smoke alarms are working properly it’s important to perform regular testing and cleaning. Test each alarm once every month. Alarms should be vacuumed at least once every six months to remove any dust and or cobweb buildup. If your alarm requires a battery be sure to replace it once a year. Most detectors will have a replace-by date. If it does not, it’s important to replace it once every ten years.

If your home has suffered damage after a fire contact SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes. We are dedicated to responding as quickly as possible when you need help. A fast response helps lessen the damage, limits the secondary damage, and reduces cost. We have advanced training in restoration techniques, and the experience and specialized equipment to quickly restore your property.

The Art of Deodorization

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Fires can happen anytime and anywhere, when disaster strikes call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes 712-262-4379

I don't know how many times my daughter has burned a bag of popcorn, but let me tell you that smell lingers for hours!  While it eventually goes away, after a major fire those odors linger significantly longer.  That is why the team at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes specializes in deodorization.  There are four principles of deodorization that we follow after a fire:

1. Remove the source. The charred material all needs to be removed first to start the process. 

2. Remove soot residue. This needs to happen as soon as we are able to get to it. This will help minimize damage.

3. After removing the residue, our franchise professionals use different methods to remove odor. This principle is called "recreate the conditions of penetration."  We use many different methods to remove odor form objects such as ozone machines, hydroxyl fans , and thermal foggers to remove odor. 

4. When necessary, our team members seal and encapsulate the odor using special sealing materials, so the odor does not penetrate the sealer and continue to produce an odor.

When disaster strikes, the SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes team is able to assist with any fire, smoke, and soot damage to help make it "Like it never even happened." 

SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes

712-262-4379

Fire Safety Advice from Fire Restoration Professionals

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes, an industry leader in fire restoration. When disaster strikes, call us...712-262-4379.

How many times have you heard of a forgotten a pizza in the oven or turned a burner on with a plastic bowl or Tupperware sitting on the stove.  Or, my personal favorite, a former employee who made ramen for lunch and forgot to add water.  Fire, smoke, and water damage can happen anytime, anywhere, to anyone.  

SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is an industry leader in fire and water restoration.  The past 18 months our office have helped 38 homes and businesses in northwest Iowa after a fire loss.  Here are some of the most common causes of fire, smoke, and soot damage to homes and businesses...

1. Cooking equipment – Cooking is one of the leading causes of fire. When cooking with oil or grease, the extreme temperatures can easily spark a flame as they spill onto the cooktop. Holiday cooking are reported to be the highest call volume days for our local fire departments. From juggling the cooking and entertaining duties, our concentration levels aren't always where they should be.  With family get togethers also means the likelihood of requiring additional roasters and other cooking appliances.  Oftentimes too many kitchen appliances lead to overloaded circuits and increased fire risk.  
2. Candles – We all want our home or business smelling nice, and what better way than burning a candle.  Candles, when placed too close to a wall, can start fires due to prolonged exposure to heat in addition to soot damage on walls.  They also become problematic when left unattended and pets are in the home.  They can unintentionally knock the candle over leading to much larger fire damage concerns.  
3. Smoking – If a cigarette or cigar is not completely put out, the embers could still be a risk to ignite a fire.  Just last year our crew helped restore an apartment complex after a fire caused by a cigarette poorly disposed of outside of the building.  That put every tenant looking for a new or temporary place to live until the property could be properly repaired.  
4. Barbeque – During the summer months we all enjoy some outdoor cooking. Things to remember when cooking outdoors are to have your grill, smoker, etc. far enough away from your home or garage so if a fire sparks due to grease falling into the flames.  Keeping those away from structures also prevents melting of vinyl siding and potential soot damage.  
5. Wiring – When it comes to the wiring in your home, you don’t want to take any short cuts. It should be up to date, and installed by a professional. Overheating or faulty wiring can quickly spark a fire inside your home or business.
6. Christmas tree – The Christmas tree is everyone’s favorite, whether it’s a real tree or artificial. If it’s a real tree, you want to make sure that the stand is full of water so the tree doesn’t dry out. With both artificial and natural trees, placing them too close to a heat source (such as a fireplace or baseboard heater) can be a fire hazard.
7. Heating Equipment – During cooler months, it is common practice to use a space heater. It is critical that all heating elements are kept a safe distance from any combustible materials. A minimum of 6" should be kept between a heat source and any other materials. 

While fires may be accidental, take some extra steps to help prevent any major damage to your home or business.  

Remember when disaster strikes, call the team that's Faster to Any Disaster...SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes. With the help of our dedicated reconstruction team, we can truly make it "Like it never even happened." 

712-262-4379

You Got Fire - We Got You

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

If you suffer from soot or smoke damage in your house or business call us at (712) 262-4379.

Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. Let our team of highly trained professionals ease some of the burden on you. The first 24 hours after a fire can make the difference between restoring or replacing your belongings. With our 24/7 emergency service we are faster to any size disaster. We use our specialized equipment and cleaning techniques to get your belongings back to preloss condition. SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes will work with your insurance company for a stress-free claims process. Our fire restoration services don’t just stop at cleaning, we have our very own in house reconstruction crew with years of experience that will make your home look “Like it never even happened.” If you have any questions about fire, soot, or smoke damage call our office today at (712) 262-4379. 

Barn Fire Leads to a Unique Restoration

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

No job too big or too small and no job too unique for our crew. Call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes at 712-262-4379

This past summer a local family suffered a fire in one of their pole barns used for storage.  The fire itself was rather usual, but the restoration was a first for our SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes team.  

Within the pole barn was the families motorcoach and trailer, not just any trailer but a toy hauler with enough space for the family vacation cruiser, motorcycle, and golf cart.  Now our team has cleaned our fair share of campers, for example the fire at the fair grounds last year, but this camper was the largest to roll into our lot.  

Our team took the time to not only clean the outside from top to bottom, but also the inside from back to front making sure that every inch of soot and odor was removed from not only the motorcoach but also the family cruiser. 

Just goes to show, no job too big or too small and no job too unique for our crew. 

To make your campers, RVs, motorhomes, or any other of your recreational vehicles "Like it never even happened." Call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes at 712-262-4379 

Have you done a fire drill lately?

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

This northwest Iowa home suffered major damage after a fire in early summer.

Do you remember as kids we used to love going outside for fire drills because it meant a break from that awful book or science experiment?  I definitely do, but fire drills aren't just a beneficial tool for schools and kids, they should be practiced at home and work. 

Performing a fire drill at work and at home is crucial to the safety of everyone so they know more than one way out of the building or home.  It's also important to remember to set a designated meeting spot (located a safe distance from the structure) where a headcount can be taken to inform first responders if anyone is left in the building and what to do should they not be able to have an escape route.

We like to suggest that customers regularly perform a fire drill quarterly so everyone knows what to do and how to keep themselves and others safe.

If disaster should strikes, we are ready 24/7, 365 at (712) 262-4379 to help walk with you through the cleanup and restoration to help you make it “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. 

Ultrasonic Cleaning - Bringing Life Back to Your Belongings

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

Notice the difference in the before and after photo's of these wrenches. With the help of the ultrasonic machine our team made them look like new.

SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes has experienced a slew of fire related calls throughout the second half of 2019 and early 2020.  Averaging nearly 2-3 fire calls per month our production team has certainly mastered the art of restoration.  

When a home or business owner experiences a fire loss, our team of professionals will do their best to pillage through items determining what to clean and what is best to replace.  

When cleaning items for restoration our team will determine what can be placed in an ultrasonic cleaning device or must be cleaned by hand.  In the ultrasonic machine, the items covered in soot will be submerged in a mixture of cleaning agent and hot water.  During this time, ultrasonic waves will gently vibrate across the surface of the submerged item helping to release the soot particles.  After cleaning each item is carefully dried and placed into an ozone chamber for deodorization.  

By using this cleaning method items come out looking "Like it never even happened."  

If you suffer a fire loss, give the professionals at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes a call, the quality of their work can be not only seen but heard.  

712-262-4379

Why Closing Your Door Can Save You Thousands.

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

A recent house fire left extensive damage to the home and contents.

The thought of a fire for a home or business owner can cause a slew of emotions. Closing doors is one small step that can help contain the extent of damage.

Closing doors prevents the fire from getting more oxygen and room to spread at a faster rate. Smoke and soot travel throughout the house and breathing in the smoke inhalation is very dangerous. Smoke contains many toxic products including carbon monoxide. It is important to close your bedroom door at night while you sleep. The alarms will go off and wake you up, giving you time to get out without the flames, toxic smoke, and high head temperatures in your room. Make sure you check the smoke detectors in your home often and have one close to where you sleep. SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is here to help make your home or business "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO provides mitigation services for fire, smoke, and soot removal to personal belongings and the home structure.  To help keep your mind at ease during this stressful time, our team of professionals will inventory your belongings for disposal or cleaning in addition to scheduling the duct cleaning and possible reconstruction if necessary.  Our goal is to help you through every step of your fire restoration.  

If disaster strikes call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes at 712-262-4379.

Fire...What Are Your Next Steps.

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

A spring fire left many residents looking for temporary residence due to the extent of the damage throughout the complex.

Like anyone, after a fire you want things to go back to normal but might not know what steps to take. The U.S. Fire Administration (FEMA) offers a guide for your next steps after a fire at https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf

This is a general guide and dependent on the nature and extent of your damage, you may need to consider other steps specific to your situation and your needs. Fires can create an overwhelming to-do list, but SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is here to help guide you through the process.

As fire and water experts, we have seen many different scenarios and can assist you in ways that go above and beyond what you might expect from a fire restoration company. When you have questions or concerns during any part of the recovery process, our team has the insight and experience to answer your questions and guide you through this stressful time.

As stated by FEMA, “Anything you want to save or reuse will need to be carefully cleaned,” and this is where SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes comes in. We are here to help restore your home or business and your cherished belongings with care. We care about the families that experience home fires and have a sincere drive towards making fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Clay County
• Dickinson County
• Emmet County
• Kossuth County
• Lyon County
• O'Brien County
• Osceola County
• Palo Alto County
• Sioux County
• And Southwest Minnesota

If disaster strikes call the team of SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes at 712-262-4379

Fire Damage - Replace or Restore

10/4/2019 (Permalink)

Soot damage on a light fixture after a home fire last year.

SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes strives to restore your home after a fire.

The soot penetrates all of your home’s furnishings. Our team is trained to properly assess every item to determine what is salvageable and what is not.  Those un-salvageable items will be inventoried and shared back with the home or business owner as well as the insurance adjuster.

There are many variables that are considered when determining what should go through the restoration process or be replaced. 

Determinations are made depending on the type of soot, how close the item was to the source of the fire, the material affected, and the value of the item. 

Every home is unique as well as every fire. The SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes team carefully assesses the damages and involves you and your insurance company in every step to draft a plan and timeline to restore your home.

SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is committed to helping make it “Like it never even happened."

For your fire and soot damage call 712-262-4379.

Content Inventory after Fire Loss

8/20/2019 (Permalink)

Our team takes care and concern when packing out your belongings after a loss.

SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes has received numerous calls over the course of the last 3 months for fire losses.  Some on the larger commercial scale and others being small kitchen or garage fires.  No matter the size of job, SERVPRO is here to make it "Like it never even happened." 

In addition to the smoke and soot cleanup, one key component to a fire loss is the inventory process.  This requires a great deal of time in most cases due to the counting and note taking involved.  As our technicians being to take inventory on both what is salvageable and what is unsalvageable, they discard the unsalvageable items and begin cleaning and boxing the salvageable items to be stored in a safe location until the restoration process has been completed.  In some cases, the restoration process in the home or business does not allow for storage of these items in which case they are brought back to the SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes office where they are stored in a climate controlled and protected area. 

Once the inventory has been completed it is submitted to the insurance company and homeowner for review and to be processed as part of the claim. 

As soon as the restoration and reconstruction process has been completed, we will bring the stored items back to the homeowner safely and securely. 

If disaster strikes your home or business, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes. 712-262-4379 

The Reality of Fire Cleanup

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

After a fire, leave the cleanup to us. We will make it "Like it never even happened."

We have all heard that soot is bad for us.  It contains a variety of toxic chemical compounds that are harmful to respiratory systems of those coming in prolonged contact with the particles.  Soot damage from a fire can often be quite time consuming and tricky to clean up.   After having worked a few fire restoration jobs myself I understood firsthand how much work goes into the restoration process. 

After a fire, soot spreads throughout far reaches to a home or business due to the smaller particles.  While the fire may be contained to the kitchen, soot can travel to multiple floors or rooms which increases the time for cleanup. 

The first restoration job I was a part of was a small kitchen fire in a one-story home.  The fire was contained to the kitchen and truly the damage was not bad.  The soot however traveled into 3 other rooms in the home, one being on the other side of the house.  In addition to cleaning the walls and surfaces from ceiling to floor, we cleaned kitchen cabinets inside & out, cleaned all toys individually, gathers items for dry cleaning, cleaned furniture, and had the HVAC system thoroughly cleaned. 

For even a small job, our crew of 3 worked for 2 days to get the family back into their home.  Depending on the scope of the job, some can take longer and require more in-depth cleaning and/or reconstruction.

SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is trained in IICRC Restoration standards for fire restoration and we pride ourselves on being very thorough when completing a job to ensure you and your family forget the disaster occurred and your home or business look Like it never even happened. 

If disaster strikes, call the team that’s faster to any disaster in Northwest Iowa…SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes!  712-262-4379

Spring Home Fires

3/29/2019 (Permalink)

This homeowner suffered major smoke and soot damage.

Spring has finally sprung!  Temperatures are rising and slowly but surely the ground is drying up in some places.  This means that many homeowners are starting to think about getting back outside and spring cleanup.    

According to FEMA, spring also brings with it the highest daily averages of fires.  This is due to many homeowners cleaning up the remnants of fall and winter in their yard and burning them.  Spring is also the time that many families get outside and light that grill for the first time.  

Seems tough to think that with how much moisture we have had in the last 18 months that we are talking about house fires, but the reality is there are many leading causes for house fires in the spring both inside and outside the home.  

In addition to the outdoors activities, the tasks for spring cleaning inside the home increase fire risks.  If you are anything like my family used to be, we broke out the cleaning supplies and cleaned everything from top to bottom.  We washed every blanket and dusted every surface.  All of these things increased the fire hazard in our home.  From the lint collected in the dryer vent to the chemicals left out, we left some of the leading causes of house fires to chance.  

Even with the wet conditions we are experiencing, make sure to do your due diligence this spring to prevent a fire in your home or business.  Do not leave the grill or fire unattended.  Clean your dryer vents.  Keep flammable chemicals in a safe place.  

For fast and thorough fire restoration, call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes! 

712-262-4379

Keep your Christmas Tree Watered to Avoid Fire

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

Make sure to water your tree regularly to prevent excess drying and avoid a potential Christmas nightmare.

Christmas is that wonderful time of year for tradition and nostalgia, one of the greatest traditions is decorating the Christmas tree.  Some homeowners have opted to transition to the artificial tree to save money year to year while others still choose to real tree.  

While there is something about that real tree look, feel, and most of all the smell, real trees also bring with them an increased potential for catching fire due to becoming too dry.  

When brought into warmer temperatures inside the home, the tree needs more water to survive the weeks that homeowners keep them in their homes.  Make sure to check the water level in your tree stand daily to make sure your Christmas tree looks its best throughout the holiday season.  

If disaster strikes call the professionals at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes.  

712-262-4379

"Like it never even happened."

What you Need to Know About Soot Damage

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

Soot contains impure carbon particles that are difficult to fully remove after fire damages your home or business.

As many of us know from sitting by the bonfire or your wood-burning fireplace in your 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.  SERVPRO of Spencer has a team of professionals who take the stress of cleanup off your shoulders and allow you to focus on what's important.  

Our team is trained to thoroughly clean your contents back "like it never even happened." They take the extra time to ensure the soot damage is removed prior to placing your contents back into your home or business.  

Whether cleaning up soot damage or mold damage it is our goal to reduce any health related issues that your disaster leaves in its path.  

To make sure the job is done right, call the SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes team for your Fire or Water Restoration needs.  

712-262-4379

Common Causes of House Fires in Fall

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Contents left unattended ignite kitchen fire, the picture shows the aftermath of the stove-top.

Fall in Northwest Iowa tends to mean lesser fire calls.  Statistics show that fall tends to be the season with the fewest amount of fires, but there are some potential hazards within your home that you can be easily taken care of to help stave off a disaster.  

1) Unattended Candles - Leaving a burning flame unattended is not always a recipe for disaster until you have a pet or small child.  The child or pet can inadvertently knock the candle onto the floor and start a fire.  Make sure you have those in an area that is without reach or keep a constant eye on the candle.  

2) Unattended Contents on Oven/Stove - It is easy to step away from the stove or oven when cooking/baking.  A quick run to the restroom or visitor at the door can take attention away from the stove and contents can boil over and quickly start a fire.  It does not take long for the fire to spread, make sure to keep a watchful eye on what you've got cooking! 

3) Dryer Vents - The vent tube on your dryer is a constant collector of lint which when heated enough can cause fire.  When running a vent tube try to minimize the number of turns of you have in the tube to promote proper airflow and minimization of lint accumulation.  At least once a year clean your vent tube, your local hardware store should have a kit to help get the hard to reach areas.  As an added benefit, this should help your clothes dry better.  

4) Poorly disposed of cigars/cigarettes - With the dry leaves and grass outside it is easy for smokers to flick their cigarette butts into the yard, but a small spark alone can start a fire.  Though northwest Iowa has suffered from its fair share of wet conditions, things may change and this is something to keep in mind.  Dispose of your cigar/cigarette butts responsibly.

5) Faulty Electrical - Many homeowners have taken to doing their own projects around the house including electrical.  Some things to consider when doing electrical work is making sure everything is grounded properly and that there are no loose connections.  Make sure to have wire nuts handy as well as electrical tape.  By not having proper connections the electrical current can arc and start a fire.  Also keep in mind as you replace outlets, when putting an outlet in high moisture areas use a GFI outlet to add an extra layer of protection. 

By taking a few precautionary steps, preventing a home or business fire can be easy.  Take the extra time and make sure it is done right and keep an eye on those potential hazard points.  

Remember, if disaster strikes call the professionals at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes. 

712-262-4379

Fall Burning

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

Keep your leaf burning experience a happy one that can be cherished for years ahead.

One of the best memories many have growing up revolve around playing in the leaves during fall while mom and dad rake them into a pile and either prepare to burn or take to the appropriate dumping area.  

Growing up many of us can remember the smell of leaves burning and it brings happy memories, but burning leaves in the fall can prove to be tricky from time to time due to windy and dry conditions.  Due to the heavy rains throughout the last 6 months that should not be a problem here in Northwest Iowa, but it never hurts to take extra caution to ensure those leaves don't blow into your home causing a fire.  

Take the necessary steps to ensure your experience remains a happy one.  If disaster does strike, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes. 

712-262-4379

Smoke & Soot Cleanup

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

Soot remains after a local university kitchen fire. Though the visible remains can be cleaned remember residual odors are tricky to remove.

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 712.262.4379

FSRT Certification – IICRC

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

Last week Chris, Carol, Lathe and Ryan attended the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification

Last week Chris, Carol, Lathe and Ryan attended the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT) certification course in Ft. Dodge. They learned how to combine technical procedures with a practical approach to managing a job site.

This two-day seminar enhances the skills of our team to be able to provide further job planning and execution, chemical and equipment requirements, structural cleaning, as well as determining the job scope and estimating after a fire. Our goal is to get our customers back into their restored home quickly.

The class consisted of learning specific techniques to deal with:

• Insurance Coverages
• Emergency Cleaning
• Contents Cleaning & Manipulation
• Structural Cleaning
• Equipment Options
• Deodorization
• Proper Procedures & Chemicals
• Jobsite Safety

Our team also learned how different types of smoke affect restoration of books, electronics and artwork.

As one of the nation's leading providers of restoration services, SERVPRO® has developed the most extensive performance guidelines in the industry. These guidelines assure you receive the best restoration service in the industry when you call 712-262-4379.

Dryer Vents & Fire Prevention

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

Dryer vent warning signs.

According to FEMA, failure to clean home dryers causes 34% of home dryer fires. Home dryer fires cause $35 million in property loss and can cause injury or death. To reduce the risk of these fires happening in your own home or business, SERVPRO can help clean dryer vents and ducts that may have lint buildup.

Other tips for keeping your dryer vents clean from the National Fire Protection Agency include cleaning the lint filter before and after each each load, and making sure the outdoor vent flap will open and is not restricted by snow, a birds nest or other potential obstacles.

If your home or business is ever affected by fire or smoke damage due to a dryer fire, call us in for a free estimate. Our trained professionals will work with you and your insurance to assess the damage and develop a plan to get you back up and running as soon as possible.

 *Featured Article from the April SERVPRO Restoration Newsline

Are You Covered for Fire Damage?

12/8/2017 (Permalink)

If you currently rent a house or apartment and you do not have renter’s insurance, please take the time to get a quote for this coverage.

Do you rent a house or apartment? Do you have renter’s insurance? Unfortunately, our franchise is frequently called to the scene of fires where tenants do not have coverage for their contents. No coverage means they risk losing everything they value in the event of a fire or other catastrophe. Fires are always terrible, but fires without proper insurance are heartbreaking.

Earlier this year, a fellow SERVPRO franchise was called to clean after a fire in a house. A short circuit caused an oven range fire that affected the whole house, especially the kitchen. Heavy soot covered all surfaces and contents, including cabinet and closet interiors.

Owner’s Insurance
The property owner had insurance to cover the building. Their certified fire technicians were able to clean the soot off the ceiling, walls, and floors. However, they could only clean the exterior of the cabinets and closets, because the insurance company and property owner would only agree to pay for their areas of responsibility.

No Tenant’s Insurance
The tenant was on the hook for any contents cleaning, but the tenant did not have renter’s insurance to cover the contents. Without renter’s insurance, any destroyed items were a total loss for the tenant. Even worse, if the tenant did not have the right training and materials for soot removal, there is a good chance the tenant damaged items that could have been restored by an experienced fire restoration cleaner.

Talk to Your Insurance Agent/Carrier
If you currently rent a house or apartment and you do not have renter’s insurance, please take the time to get a quote for this coverage. You will likely find the coverage is less expensive than you expected and well worth protecting everything you keep in your home.

Here at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes, we are committed to restoring property following a fire or flood. Please consider carrying the right insurance coverage to ensure we are able to make your disaster "Like it never even happened."

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

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

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 712-262-4379

Bring Your Family Heirlooms Back to Life

10/18/2017 (Permalink)

Carol worked with one of our ultrasonic cleaning tanks to remove extreme smoke damage from these family heirlooms.

Our Ultrasonic Machine is located in our Spencer office. This machine is used to clean many different items including items damaged by mold or soot. We can clean some electronics, jewelry, guns, family heirlooms, light fixtures, porcelain dolls, etc.

The benefits of Ultrasonic cleaning are:

• Offers a deep and even clean
• Very delicate cleaning for those delicate items
• High speed and energy efficient cleaning
• Minimal chemicals

Ultrasonic works with high-frequency ultrasonic vibrations, along with the special cleaning solutions, to create the effect of millions of tiny bubbles which breakdown contaminants off the target surface without the need for scrubbing.

If you have an item that you would like to have deep cleaned with our ultrasonic machine just let us know.

Even if you don't have fire and water damage at your home and you just need an item deep cleaned, feel free to bring it in and we will be happy to clean the item quickly and thoroughly for you.