Protecting Your Valuables from Fire Damage

9/6/2023 (Permalink)

Tips to protect your valuables!

We can never plan on a disaster but we can always prepare for one! Here are some tips from SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan to help protect your valuables from potential fire damage. If you have any belongings that are of high importance or value to you, follow these tips to ensure these are not damage in the event of a fire. 

1. Make an inventory of your home and take photos.
2. Store items in a fireproof lockbox or safe.
3. Digitize important documents.
4. Have jewelry, artwork and other expensive items appraised. 

If you or anyone you know has experienced a fire damage loss, SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan is here to help 24/7/365. Give us a call at 989-705-2400 to find out more on how we can help you! 

Post Fire Do's and Dont's

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

Once you have gotten over the shock of a house fire, we want to leave you with a couple of tips that will help out your situation.

What Not to Do After a House Fire

• Do not enter your home until you’re given permission that it is safe.
• Do not turn on gas, water or electric utilities until a professional has deemed them safe.
• Do not start or move your vehicle if it has been damaged.
• Do not try to clean any of the smoke or soot damage yourself. Leave that to professionals who have the proper safety equipment and experience.

What to Do After a House Fire

• Get permission from Fire Department officials before you re-enter the fire-damaged structure.
• Contact family members and loved ones to inform them of the accident.
• Attend to frightened pets and ensure their safety and comfort.
• Call all utility providers (electric, gas, water) and inform them of the fire.
• Call your homeowners insurance company to begin the claim process.
• Call the professionals at SERVPRO to help get the fire mitigation and restoration process started. We are available 24/7/365. 

July Fire Safety Tips

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

There is nothing like firing up the grill during the summer months! Did you know, July is the peak month for grill fires? A backyard barbecue can become dangerous quickly if proper safety precautions aren't considered. SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan wants you to have an enjoyable and safe summer. Consider the following tips to help ensure your summer celebrations are disaster free.

• Propane and charcoal barbecue grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging brochures. 
• Keep children and pets away from grill area. 
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grill and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• When using a charcoal grill, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.
• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear. 
• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Keep a buck of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire. Children should never pickup fireworks that may be left over as they may still be active. 
• The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted by trained professionals. 

If your residential or commercial property suffers from structural fire damage, call us at 989-705-2400! 

How to Safely Extinguish a Grease Fire

6/10/2022 (Permalink)

We are here to help with any of your kitchen fire cleanup needs!

How To Put Out a Grease Fire In Your Home

One of the greatest joys in life is a nice homecooked meal. However, that joy can quickly change to fear when facing a fire. Regardless of your experience in the kitchen, a fire can happen to anyone at any time. As a result, everyone needs to be familiar with the process of extinguishing one. The following is a step-by-step guide to putting out a grease fire in your home:

1. Eliminate the heat source. The first step you need to take is removing the heat source by turning your burner off or unplugging the stove. This will help keep the fire from getting out of control. Be sure to wear oven mitts to avoid burns.

2. Smother the flames. The best method for eliminating a stovetop or oven fire is to smother it by putting a lid over the pan. This quickly cuts off the oxygen supply. Make sure to use a lid that is not made of glass, as the intense heat can cause it to shatter. Another option is to use baking soda and pour a generous quantity on the fire. If you own a fire extinguisher, you can use this as a third option. Never use water on a grease fire, as oil and water do not mix, and this can cause an explosion.

3. Call 911. If the above steps do not eliminate the fire, or if it spreads, call 911 immediately and evacuate everyone in the residence. Do not stay and continue to attempt to put out the fire; your life is much more important.

Dealing with a grease fire in your home is a terrifying experience. By arming yourself with the knowledge of how to properly handle one before it starts, you can get it under control and prevent too much damage from occurring. Afterward, fire restoration services can help you with fire cleanup and assess any damage. 

Fire, Smoke, and Soot Restoration Services

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

Structural Cleaning - After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. Your experienced local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will pretest to determine the extent of damage, and then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your structure. Depending on the amount of soot, your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional may even be able to reduce the cost of recovery by cleaning lighter soot deposits found on some surfaces, eliminating the expense incurred with repainting or refinishing. In other cases, SERVPRO® will clean to “prepare for painting”. This process deodorizes and ensures the new paint will adhere properly to the surface.

Contents Cleaning – All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals can provide wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac and much more. Finally, SERVPRO® can provide an inventory list of all “to be claimed” items if requested.

Deodorization – SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals provide specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out the sources of the odor and remove them. Ask your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

Post Fire Cleanup Professionals

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

We are here to help with any of your post fire cleanup and restoration needs!

If you suffer a fire in your home, putting the flames out is just the beginning. As time goes on, the smoke and soot that has accumulated has the potential to cause more damage. To prevent any further damage from occurring, you should contact the professionals at SERVPRO who have the expertise to help prevent any further damage. Every second counts and our professional help will aid in preventing further damage. Many believe that the flames are the only source of damage that occurs during a fire, but the majority comes from smoke, soot, ash, and secondary water damages from putting the fire out. Ash and smoke can cause extensive corrosion, etching, discoloration, and powerful odors around the house. The damage starts with the discoloring of most surfaces. Within minutes, anything that is made of plastic or was close to the fire will start to discolor. Within hours, fiberglass and finishes on any appliances will begin to yellow and metals may tarnish. Within a few days, walls, clothing, and upholstery will permanently discolor, wood and vinyl will need refinishing or replacement, and metals will start corroding. Due to the quick progression of damage that can occur to most of the objects around the house, you’ll need to contact the IICRC-certified professionals at SERVPRO. The soot and dirty water that collects in the home from putting out the fire can contain dangerous bacteria. It’s important to allow the professionals to handle this before re-entering the home. Furthermore, coming into contact with fire damaged materials can be hazardous. Give the professionals at SERVPRO a call if you are in need of any postfire cleanup or restoration! 

Circuit Overload

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

We are here to help with any of your fire damage cleanup needs!

Have you ever plugged in too many devices into one outlet at once? Everything at first seemed fine and then all of a sudden, the power goes off. You more than likely created a circuit overload in your home. 

All electrical circuits are designed to handle a certain amount of electricity. When you bring in more electricity than a circuit can handle, a circuit overload will occur, potentially causing a fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical fires are one of the leading causes of structure fire annually. Which is accounted for nearly 13% of reported home fires and results in 420 fatalities, 1,520 injuries and nearly $1.5 billion in property damage. 

How can you prevent a potential house fire by an overloaded circuit? Follow the tips below: 

• Never plug more than two devices into an outlet at once. 
• Know the amount of power you are putting on an outlet or circuit. 
• Large appliances like refrigerators and dryers should be plugged into their own outlet since they are heavy power users. 
• If you see that you have been overloading an outlet or circuit in your home, you should consider contacting a professional to help resolve the problem. 

If an electrical fire does occur, we are always here to help 24/7/365. We specialize in and are industry leaders in fire and water damage cleanup and restoration. We have extensive fire damage cleanup and restoration training to get your property back to pre-fire condition. 

For more information about how to prevent electrical fires in your home, visit nfpa.org. 

Household Cleaning Tips to Avoid Fires

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

House fires are more common than you may realize, with potential fire starters like dust, laptops and lint traps hiding in plain sight throughout your home. While the thought may never cross your mind, many household items that go misused or uncleaned can be disguised as harmless but ultimately deadly. 

Are you guilty of these bad habits that could start an unexpected fire in your home? 

Misusing electric blankets: A warm and cozy electric blanket is a undeniable source of comfort in the winter but, it also poses a potential fire hazard. Never allow pets to snuggle on top and do not pile extra covers over the electric blanket. Excessive heat buildup may lead to fire. Never bend the coils, always keep your blanket at its lowest setting and always turn it off in the morning. 

Piling up dirty rags: A wood stain may be the perfect finishing touch on a DIY project, but later, that pile of oil-soaked rags you tossed in the corner could trigger the perfect storm. Those rags are a very real fire hazard if left unattended. The rags could oxidize and spontaneously combust, causing a house fire. Two proper ways to dispose of oily rags are to lay them flat outside to dry or to put them in a metal can filled with water and a tight-fitting lid. 

Lingering dryer lint: We're sure you know emptying the lint screen increases your dryer’s efficiency, but did you know that lint is flammable? The combination of lint buildup and excessive heat is a recipe for disaster. Make sure to clean the interior of the dryer frame as well as the dryer vent and exhaust duct regularly to clear away lint and clogs and to reduce the risk of fire. 

Letting your laptop overheat: If you own a laptop, you know how hot it can get after hours of use. You increase the risk of restricting airflow through the cooling vents when you leave your laptop computer on your bed, rug, chair or other soft flammable surfaces. This can cause your laptop to overheat and possibly catch fire. Keeping your laptop on a desk or table will help prevent fires. 

Using too many extension cords: Extension cords are meant to be a temporary response to a lack of electrical outlets; not a permanent solution. The reason for this is that connecting many cords for a significant amount of time causes an overload that will lead to a short circuit - which could start a fire. Hiring a qualified electrician to install additional outlets could help you avoid this problem altogether. 

Disregarding dust: Built up dust can be a fire hazard if it collects in and around electrical sockets, electronics and even floor heaters. Vacuuming on a regular basis, especially behind electronics, will significantly reduce the chance of dust particles catching fire. 

Improperly storing batteries: Storing 9-volt batteries in your kitchen junk drawer might be putting your home and family at risk. When loose batteries roll around with other metals such as paper clips or screws, the two terminals could short out, possibly generating enough heat to ignite flammables nearby. If storing the batteries in the original package is not an option, place a piece of electrical tape over the terminal to prevent this possibility. 

Unwanted guests: Rodents like mice and rats like to chew on electrical wires to control the length of their teeth. Over time, they can remove the sheathing which leaves the wires exposed. The electrical current travelling through the wire generates heat and if the wire is exposed this could lead to sparks and ultimately ignite the surrounding surface. Call an exterminator if you suspect you have rodents. 

Forgetting the chimney sweep: There are common causes of chimney fires, such as, dead birds, raccoon nests, cracked mortar and built-up creosote. The National Fire Protection Association recommends a professional chimney sweep at least once a year. Also, when building a fire in your fireplace, never light it with kerosene. Always use an approved fire starter. 

Overlooking the range hood: Ovens and cook tops are the most common sources of kitchen fires. But range hoods are also a potential threat. Grease builds up over time and can drip down onto the cook top, possibly starting a fire. These flames could easily reach your cabinets and before you know it your kitchen could be engulfed. Regularly clean and maintain your range hood to keep your kitchen out of harm’s way. 

Furniture arrangement: Furniture placed too close to a wood stove could spontaneously ignite. Pyrolysis is the chemical decomposition of a combustible item. This occurs when an object is continually exposed to a heat source and dries out. This leading-yet seldom considered cause of fires does not even require a direct flame. It only takes heat and time. 

Why Choose SERVPRO 

Fire and secondary smoke damages are extremely destructive and catastrophic experiences. In many instances, your property will also suffer secondary water damages from firefighting efforts. We are industry leaders in both fire and water damage cleanup and restoration. SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan has specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us to restore your home to pre-fire condition "Like it never even happened." 

Decorate Safely

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

Decorate safely this holiday season!

Pretty lights, candles, and decorations are just a few of the items bringing charm and cheer to the holiday season - however, if they are not used carefully, your holidays may go from festive to frightening. The American Red Cross offers the following safety tips to help greatly reduce the fire risk in your home or business this holiday season:

• Place Christmas trees, candles, and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents, and candles.
• Make sure light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed.
• Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or before going to bed.
• Use only sturdy tree stands designed not to tip over. Keep curious pets and children away from Christmas trees.
• Keep anything that can catch on fire - like pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains - away from your stove top.
• Designate one person to walk around your home or business to ensure all candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished after guests leave.

For any of your fire cleanup and restoration needs, give SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan a call at 989-705-2400!

Fire Prevention Month

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Month

Many may wonder why October has been designated as Fire Prevention Month. In 1922, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) named the second week of October Fire Prevention Week in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire in 1871. Today, we celebrate Fire Prevention Week and Month by raising fire safety awareness and educating families, students and communities across the United States. During this month, fire departments provide education to their communities, and encourage parents and loved ones to practice fire safety and whole home safety. 

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan wants to remind you that we are here 24/7 to help with any fire, smoke, or soot damage needs! Follow this link to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) website and help us spread and share these Fire Safety Tips to your friends and family. https://bddy.me/34SqvPt 

Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety

Is there a beep or a chirp coming out of your smoke or carbon monoxide alarm? What does it all mean? Knowing the difference can save you, your home, and your family! Make sure that everyone in the home understands the sounds of the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and knows how to respond. 

What is your alarm telling you?

Smoke Alarms

• A continued set of three loud beeps means smoke or fire. Get out, call 9-1-1 and stay out! 
• A single "chirp" every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be changed. 
• ALL smoke alarms must be replaced after 10 years.
• Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms

• A continuous set of four loud beeps means carbon monoxide is present in your home. Go outside, call 9-1-1 and stay out!
• A single chirp every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be replaced. 
• CO alarms also have "end of life" sounds that vary by manufacturer. This means it's time to get a new CO alarm.
• Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced. 

HEAR A BEEP, GET ON YOUR FEET!

Deep Fryer Safety

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association, deep fryer fires cause an average of 5 deaths, 60 injuries, and more than $15 million in property damage each year. Deep fryers are great for cooking up some delicious food for gatherings, etc. But, frying is more dangerous than any other types of cooking because it involves cooking oil and grease. Not to mention, deep fryers involve larger quantities of hot cooking oil, so it creates a higher risk of injury and loss.

To avoid a fire, please follow these safety tips provided by The National Fire Protection Association:

• Always use cooking equipment tested and approved by a recognized testing facility.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions and code requirements when installing and operating cooking equipment.
• Plug cooking appliances directly into an outlet. Never use an extension cord for a cooking appliance as it can overload the circuit and cause a fire. Watch what you heat!
• The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. Stay in the kitchen when you are frying food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the deep fryer.
• Do not use too much deep-frying oil. Having too much will result in excessive spillage.
• Stay alert! To prevent cooking fires, you must be alert.
• Keep the deep fryer clean and change cooking oil regularly.
• Keep pets away to prevent them from knocking over the deep fryer or knocking something onto or into the deep fryer.
• Keep anything that can catch fire – potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, boxes, food packaging, towels, or curtains – away from your deep fryer.

If you happen to have damage from a fryer fire, we have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications at SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan that allow us to restore your home to pre-fire condition "Like it never even happened."

For any of your fire loss needs call us at (989) 705-2400

Smoke or Soot Damage In Your Home?

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Even a small fire or smoke throughout your home can cause soot damage to cover your entire home structure and belongings. Your home may also suffer from water damage if you have had the fire department respond due to firefighting efforts. This type of secondary damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. If you have suffered any type of smoke damage or fire in your home, you may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan specializes and is trained in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home and your affected contents to pre-fire condition.

Don't wait! Give us a call today and we can help!

989-705-2400

Fire Damage Process

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage is especially destructive. In many cases, your property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts. With our emergency fire damage process, we can get your property back to pre-fire condition “Like it never even happened.” We have a 1-4-8 policy to make sure we are faster to any size disaster.

One Hour:

Within one hour from notice of loss, we will contact you to arrange for service. You will know help is on the way!

Four Hours:

Within four hours of loss notification, we will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage.

Detailed Explanation:

A trained, uniformed, and equipped SERVPRO professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome.

Pretesting:

We will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.

Eight Hours:

Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.

Cleaning, Restoration, & Deodorization:

We will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. We use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time.

Final Walk-Through:

After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction.

For Any Fire Damage Cleanup or Restoration Needs Contact Us At: (989) 705-2400

Smoke damage in your home in Gaylord?

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Have you suffered a fire and now have smoke and soot damage throughout your home and live in Gaylord?  We can help restore your home and in the mean time Follow these safety tips:

After suffering a fire in your home, safety shoudl be your primary focus:

• 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!

Have Smoke or Fire Damage to your home in Gaylord? Call (989) 705-2400

We have included some tips and Do's and Don'ts to help ensure your safety after suffering a fire in your home and to help prevent  any further damage from occurring.  It is important to reach out to a professional Restoration Company such as SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan for the appropriate steps in cleaning, deodorizing and restoring your home to pre loss condition following a fire and not try to leave the cleanup in your own hands as you can cause more damage. 

What To Do After A Fire

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

What NOT To Do After A Fire

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

Call SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan at 989-705-2400.  We offer 24 hour emergency services and board up and tarping to help protect your structure following a fire at your home in Gaylord.  Reach out to us today and we will walk you through each step of the way.

Fire or Smoke Damage in Your Home?

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

Even a small fire or smoke throughout your home can cause soot damage that covers your entire home structure and personal belongings. Your home may also suffer from secondary water damage if you have had the fire department respond due to firefighting efforts. This type of secondary damage can be especially upsetting and devastating for your family to process. If you have suffered any type of smoke damage or fire in your home, you may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan specializes and is trained in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home and your affected contents to pre-fire condition.

Don't wait! Give us a call today and we can help!

989-705-2400

Create a Home Fire Escape Plan

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Being that most of us have been at home and the fall and winter seasons are approaching quickly, spend some of that time indoors and create a fire escape plan for your household.

SERVPRO is here to help you with the after effects from a fire and we can aid in getting your home back to pre-fire condition. In life you have to expect the unexpected so take the time to create a fire plan should a fire happen to you.

There were an estimated 339,500 home structure fires in 2019 and 2,770 associated home structure fire deaths. This resulted in $7.8 billion worth of direct property damage. By creating a fire plan you can help to protect your family and allow for them to safely evacuate, which will allow for these numbers to drop.

It is noted that your ability to get out depends on advanced warning from smoke alarms and advanced planning. Fire has the ability to rapidly spread through your home, leaving you with as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once the alarm sounds. Something as simple as a closed door may help slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire.

Install smoke alarms in every room where someone sleeps and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. It is extremely important that fire alarms are all interconnected. When one sounds, they should all sound.

Before a fire happens, get everyone in your household together and devise a fire plan. We recommend that you:

• Draw a map of your home. Show all doors and windows.
• Visit each room. Find two ways out.
• All windows and doors should open easily.
  • You should also be able to use them to get outside.
• Make sure your home has smoke alarms.
  • Push the test button to make sure each alarm is working.
• Pick a meeting place outside. We recommend that it should be in front of your home. Everyone will meet at the meeting place following evacuation.
• Make sure your house or building number can be seen from the street.
• Learn the emergency phone number for your fire department.
• Practice your home fire escape drill!

If you experience a fire don't forget to give the restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan a call! (989) 705-2400

Fire Damage to your home in Walloon Lake

8/28/2020 (Permalink)

Have you had a fire in your home in Walloon Lake?  Follow these safety tips:

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

• 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!

Have Smoke or Fire Damage to your home in Walloon Lake? Call (989) 705-2400

Here are some Do's and Don'ts to help ensure your safety after suffering a fire in your home and to help prevent further damage.  Make sure to reach out to a professional Restoration Company such as SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan for the appropriate steps in cleaning, deodorizing and restoring your home to pre loss condition following a fire. 

What To Do After A Fire

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

What NOT To Do After A Fire

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

Call SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan at 989-705-2400.  We offer 24 hour emergency services and board up and tarping to help protect your structure following a fire.  

Has a Fire caused Soot and Smoke Damage throughout your home?

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke damage and soot caused from a fire in your home can penetrate in various cavities within your home.  This can cause hidden damage and odor if not taken care of and cleaned and deodorized by a professional. We are experience in smoke damage deodorization and our experience allows us to scope and inspect to accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts and behaviors:

• 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

Did you know there are different types of smoke damage?  There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue following a fire in your home. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan will test the soot in your home to determine which type of smoke damage occurred has affected your home and how we can help get you back in your home. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting and our scope of work identified. 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. 

Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different and unique, each one requires a different and tailored solution 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 –SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan at 989-705-2400

Have you had a Fire at your home on Lake Charlevoix?

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Have you suffered a fire or smoke damage at your season home on Lake Charlevoix? At SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan, we realize the importance of getting you back into your home as soon as possible so you can enjoy your summers on the lake! Here are some safety tips to follow to help speed up the process and before a professional Restoration Company is contacted to start the cleaning services.

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

• 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!

Have Smoke or Fire Damage to your home on Lake Charlevoix? Call (989) 705-2400

What To Do After A Fire

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

What NOT To Do After A Fire

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

At SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan, we can help from the start from the initial board up to protect your structure and belongings, to cleaning and deodorizing your seasonal home and contents and helping with the reconstructing if any structural damage has been caused due to the fire.  Our goal is to get you back into your home on the lake as soon as we can while striving for excellent customer satisfaction.  

If you have had a fire in your home, give us a call at 989-705-2400 and we will come and meet with you and complete an inspection!

Have you had a fire in your home in Gaylord?

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Have you suffered a fire or smoke damage in your home in Gaylord?  Here are some safety tips to follow before a professional Restoration Company is contacted.

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

• 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!

Have Smoke or Fire Damage to your home in Gaylord? Call (989) 705-2400

What To Do After A Fire

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

What NOT To Do After A Fire

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

At SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan, we can help from the start from the initial board up to protect your structure and belongings, to cleaning and deodorizing your home and contents and helping with the reconstructing if any structural damage has been caused.  

If you have had a fire in your home in Gaylord, call our team here, we are available 24 hours a day.  989-705-2400

Have you had smoke damage to your home and have soot covering your home?

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Even a small fire or smoke throughout your home can cause soot damage to cover your entire home structure and belongings.  Your home may also suffer from water damage if you have had the fire department respond due to firefighting efforts. This type of secondary damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. If you have suffered any type of smoke damage or fire in your home, you may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan specializes and is trained in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home and your affected contents to pre-fire condition.

Don't wait! Give us a call today and we can help!

989-705-2400

Fire Damage in Harbor Springs

8/28/2019 (Permalink)

Have you had a fire in your home in Harbor Springs?  Follow these safety tips:

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

• 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!

Have Smoke or Fire Damage to your home in Harbor Springs? Call (989) 705-2400

What To Do After A Fire

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

What NOT To Do After A Fire

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

Fire and Smoke Damage in Petoskey

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

Damage caused by a fire is devastating for your family and your home. It’s a stressful and confusing time, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. Our professionals will always treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with great care from the start including the board up process if needed.

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan has the water and fire damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. Once the fire department leaves, your Gaylord home may suffer from water damage caused by firefighting efforts. We have the specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition. Again, we can handle the board up as well!

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition. We use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

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

Fire Damage in Your Gaylord Home?

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today – (989) 705-2400

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan understands your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings make your house more than a structure; they make it home.

In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your Gaylord home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. This type of damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

Cheboygan County Fire Restoration

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your Cheboygan home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. This type of damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan

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

Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today (989) 705-2400

Emmet County Fire Restoration

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

24-Hour Emergency Fire Restoration Service

We know that fire damage can happen any time, so we’re ready to respond 24 hours, 7 days a week—including holidays. We provide immediate emergency fire services for Cheboygan homes or businesses, day or night.

Faster to Any Size Fire Emergency

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan is dedicated to responding immediately to your Cheboygan fire damage emergency. A faster response is the key to help prevent additional damage and to help reduce the restoration cost.

Locally Owned, with National Resources

We are proud to be an active member of this community. SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan is locally owned and operated so we’re already nearby and ready to help Cheboygan residents and business owners with any-sized fire and smoke damage emergencies.

CALL US FOR HELP - 989-705-2400

Antrim County Fire Cleanup and Restoration

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Highly Trained Water and Fire Restoration Specialists

We specialize in fire and water restoration. We’ve received advance training in restoration techniques and we have the experience and specialized equipment to quickly restore your property. Learn about our fire damage training/certificates.

Need Help? Call us - 989-705-2400

Our Fire Restoration Process

Every fire damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

We are available 24 hours, 7 days a week. When you call, one of our representatives will ask a series of questions about the fire damage to your home or business. This information helps us respond immediately with all the needed equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)

In many fire damage cases, it’s necessary to board up missing windows and walls and to place tarps on a damaged roof. This helps to maintain security and to protect against further damage. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

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

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

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

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean and sanitize the restorable items and structures damaged by the fire. Our professionals use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the process or restoring your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve relatively minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and painting, or it could include significant reconstruction of entire rooms.

Kalkaska County Fire Restoration

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (989) 705-2400

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When various materials burn, the soot they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

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

We’re Fire and Water Damage Specialists

As fire and water restoration specialists, we have the training, experience and specialized equipment necessary to restore your home or business. We are committed to providing superior service while restoring your property back to pre-fire condition.

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

Roscommon County Fire Restoration

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Your Belongings and Fire Damage

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan understands your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings make your house more than a structure; they make it home.

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call Us Today – (989) 705-2400

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition. We use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

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

Crawford County Fire Restoration

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Your Belongings and Fire Damage

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call Us Today – (989) 705-2400

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. Move-out will provide several benefits, including:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

Document / Photograph Drying

When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water or fire, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the fire damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-fire damage condition, SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. 

Depending on the type of documents and the level of fire, smoke, or soot damage, they have five options for the restoration of documents:

• Air Drying
• Dehumidification
• Freezer Drying
• Vacuum Freeze Drying
• Vacuum Thermal Drying

Otsego County Fire Restoration

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Your Belongings and Fire Damage

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call Us Today – (989) 705-2400

Contents Claim Inventory Service

When a fire emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. We can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings. We take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding.

Our Contents Claim Inventory Service:

• Preloss list and value of contents
• Detailed and accurate report
• Better information to settle claims quicker
• Assistance with burden of proof for claims

Document / Photograph Drying

When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water or fire, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the fire damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-fire damage condition, SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. 

Depending on the type of documents and the level of fire, smoke, or soot damage, they have five options for the restoration of documents:

• Air Drying
• Dehumidification
• Freezer Drying
• Vacuum Freeze Drying
• Vacuum Thermal Drying

Do You Have a Fire Escape Plan?

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Making A Plan

• Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home
• Make sure everyone knows where to meet outside in case of fire
• Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year and at different times of the day. 
• Make sure everyone knows how to call 911
• Teach household members to STOP, DROP, and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

Follow Your Escape Plan

During a home fire, remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT and call 911 or your local emergency phone number.

• If closed doors or handles are warm, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to the touch
• Crawl low under smoke
• Go to your outside meeting place and then for help
• 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 911. Open a window and wave a brightly colored cloth or flashlight to signal for help.

Fire Safety Tips

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Safety TIPS

About Fire Safety & Prevention

Did you know that if a fire starts in your home, you may have just two minutes to escape? 

The most effective way to protect yourself and your home from fire is to identify and remove fire hazards. 60 percent of house fire deaths occur in homes with no working smoke alarms. During a home fire, working smoke alarms and a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives.

Fire Safety Tips 

• Talk with all household members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.
• Test smoke alarms once a month, if they’re not working, change the batteries.
• If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL for help.
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
• Prepare

Preparing and Preventing a Home Fire - Steps You Can Take Now
 

• Keep items that can catch on fire at least three feet away from anything that gets hot, such as space heaters.
• Never smoke in bed.
• Talk to your children regularly about the dangers of fire, matches and lighters and keep them out of reach.
• Download the Monster Guard: Prepare for Emergencies mobile game to teach kids about fire safety and other disasters.
• Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room or go to sleep.
   

Smoke Alarms

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
• Teach your children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
• Test smoke alarms once a month, if they’re not working, change the batteries.
• Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. Never disable smoke or carbon monoxide alarms.
• Carbon monoxide alarms are not substitutes for smoke alarms. Know the difference between the sound of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.

Check Your Smoke Detectors

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Why do we stress about providing smoke alarm tips? Because NFPA’s survey data shows that the public has many misconceptions about smoke alarms, which may put them at increased risk in the event of a home fire. For example, only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced.

SMOKE ALARM TIPS

• Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.
• Make sure you know how old all the smoke alarms are in your home.
• To find out how old a smoke alarm is, look at the date of manufacture on the back of the alarm; the alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date.
• 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.
• There are two kinds of alarms. Ionization smoke alarms are quicker to warn about flaming fires. Photoelectric alarms are quicker to warn about smoldering fires. It is best to use of both types of alarms in the home.
• A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
• People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
• Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan.

Visit our Facebook Page for more Safety Tips!

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan

Fire Extinguisher Tips

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

A portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives; but portable extinguishers have limitations. Because fire grows and spreads so rapidly, the number one priority for residents is to get out safely.

Safety tips

• Use a portable fire extinguisher when the fire is confined to a small area, such as a wastebasket, and is not growing; everyone has exited the building; the fire department has been called or is being called; and the room is not filled with smoke.
• To operate a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS:
    - Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle
      pointing away from you, and release the locking
      mechanism.
    - Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
    - Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
    - Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.
• For the home, select a multi-purpose extinguisher (can be used on all types of home fires) that is large enough to put out a small fire, but not so heavy as to be difficult to handle.
• Choose a fire extinguisher that carries the label of an independent testing laboratory.
• Read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher and become familiar with its parts and operation before a fire breaks out. Local fire departments or fire equipment distributors often offer hands-on fire extinguisher trainings.
• Install fire extinguishers close to an exit and keep your back to a clear exit when you use the device so you can make an easy escape if the fire cannot be controlled. If the room fills with smoke, leave immediately.
• Know when to go. Fire extinguishers are one element of a fire response plan, but the primary element is safe escape. Every household should have a home fire escape plan and working smoke alarms.

Northern Michigan Smoke and Soot Cleanup

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Northern Michigan Smoke and Soot Cleanup

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan is here to HELP!

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 Gaylord & Cheboygan 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.

Northern Michigan Fire Restoration

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Damage caused by a fire is devastating for your family and your home. It’s a stressful and confusing time, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. Our professionals will always treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with great care.

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan has the water and fire damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. Once the fire department leaves, your Gaylord home may suffer from water damage caused by firefighting efforts. We have the specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When various materials burn, the soot they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (989) 705-2400

Has soot covered your home?

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your Gaylord home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. This type of damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Don't wait! Give us a call today and we can help!

Prevent Holiday Fires

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Prevent Holiday Fires

Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don't practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. It's important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don't use the stove or stove top.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are drying, grilling, boiling or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire-- oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains-- away from the stove top.

Fire Prevention Tips

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Home Fire Prevention Tips

• Prevention Tips 9 Keep all potential sources of fuel like paper, clothing, bedding or rugs at least three feet away from space heaters, stoves, or fireplaces.

• Portable heaters and fireplaces should never be left unattended. Turn off space heaters and make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before going to bed or leaving home.

• If you must use a space heater, place it on a level, hard and nonflammable surface (such as ceramic tile floor), not on rugs or carpets or near bedding or drapes. Keep children and pets away from space heaters. 

• When buying a space heater, look for models that shut off automatically if the heater falls over as another safety measure.

• Never use a cooking range or oven to heat your home.

• Keep the fire in your fireplace by using a glass or metal fire screen large enough to catch sparks and rolling logs.

• Have wood and coal stoves, fireplaces, chimneys, and furnaces professionally inspected and cleaned once a year.

Fire Damage Prevention

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Tips to Prepare for a Home Fire

• Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
• Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
• 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.
• Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
• 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.
• Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
• Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

What to do if a Fire Starts

• Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher
• 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.

7 Tips on Fire Prevention

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Tip #1: Take Extreme Caution When Cooking... 

The undeniable fact is that people simply aren't careful enough when it comes to cooking. This is the number one cause of home fires. Period.

One of the biggest dangers is the combination of hot splashing grease and unattended cooking. Hot grease can instantly burst into flames. So it's vital that you're always there to watch and make sure that grease does not splash.

Of course keeping flammable dish towels, paper towels, or pot holders next to an open flame is a recipe for disaster. Keep all of those clear from the stove.

Last but not least, make sure to have a fire extinguisher on hand, ready to go at any moment in the kitchen, to immediately put out any fires. (Hint: This can also perhaps help you earn a discount on your home insurance).

Tip #2: Keep Your Heating Equipment in Good Condition... 

Many fires start each and every year due to heating equipment that hasn't been maintained. You should have your home heating utilities inspected and cleaned annually. Just as well, fireplace and chimney cleaning should be part of your annual budget. (Hint: Let your home insurance carrier know that this is part of your annual schedule and ask for a discount because of that)...

Portable heaters are also a great danger when not used properly. Keep these heaters at least 3 feet away from anything flammable, such as curtains, bed sheets, and never dry clothes on them. Always unplug portable heaters when you leave the home.

Tip #3: Smoking in the Home Is a Fire Waiting to Happen... 

Smoking is a huge and obvious fire hazard, yet so many people carry on smoking in the home.

The easiest way to prevent a fire from cigarettes is to not ever smoke in the home. Period. However, if you insist on still smoking in the home, be sure never to smoke in bed. Most cigarette fires are started with people falling asleep with their cigarette lit.

Using deep ashtrays is highly recommended. Never use flammable items such as paper plates, bowls, or cups as an ashtray. And remember that a cigarette butt can burn and smolder for hours after you think it's been extinguished.

Tip #4: Electrical Fires Hide Around Every Corner... 

Electrical equipment makes our life easier in so many ways, but can also cause grave danger when it comes to fire safety.

It's important that you keep a close eye on your electrical equipment. Never use faulty equipment. Always watch for frayed or worn cords and wires. Never run a cord under furniture or rugs. Wires get hot. The insulation on wires can also tear in places that you can't see, and cause a fire when up against flammable material.

Also, any electrical job in your home should be done by a professional. Do-it-yourself electrical jobs very often go bad, simply because they're not performed completely properly. This is no time to take a shortcut or save money.

Tip #5: Candles Can Lead to Disaster... 

The candle market is huge. It's a $2 Billion dollar industry. While we love the way candles look and smell, especially during the holidays, the fact is that candles can be extremely dangerous. In essence, they're voluntary open flames left around your home. This can lead to disaster in many ways.

The most common cause of candle fires is because they're placed too close to flammable material such as curtains, tablecloths, etc. Other ways that candle fires can easily start are from kids or pets knocking over candles that have been placed too low. It's important that you use a sturdy candle holder that's in no way flammable. Candles melt and the flame can very easily and quickly end up on a flammable source. Do a thorough walk through your home whenever candles are lit, and make sure all have been extinguished.

Tip #6: Curious Children and Fires Do Not Mix... 

Children are curious by fire. They may want to see what happens when something melts or becomes ablaze or are intrigued by how things melt. But obviously that's extremely dangerous and a huge hazard to the entire home.

The first step is to explain in great detail the full dangers of fire. This is the time that you want to scare your children a bit. You also want to be diligent about keeping any source of fire out of their reach. If you find anything like matches, lighters, or even notice burnt or melted toys in their room or play area, immediately take action. In this case, it's better to assume that they're likely playing with fire and strongly re-iterate the dangers.

Tip #7: The Fire Dangers Behind Your Walls... 

We spoke about electrical equipment in the home, but the electricity that powers those appliances runs through wiring in your home, which can cause fires.

If your electricity frequently shuts off, or trips fuses or breakers then that's telling you that you have a problem. Faulty outlets and bad or old wiring can be dangerous.

Never try to be an electrician in the home if you're not one. Let a professional handle the electrical work in every situation. This decision could save your life, your family's life, as well as your home and all of your possessions in the home.

Bonus Tip: Keep smoke alarms in every room of your home, and frequently (do it now) check the batteries, and make sure that all are in working order.

Now that you know how to prevent fires in your home, you should take action now while it's fresh in your mind.

Installing and Maintaining Smoke Detectors

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Installing Smoke Detectors

• Choose smoke alarms that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• Install smoke alarms inside each bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement.
• On levels without bedrooms, install alarms in the living room (or den or family room) or near the stairway to the upper level, or in both locations.
• Smoke alarms installed in the basement should be installed on the ceiling at the bottom of the stairs leading to the next level.
• Smoke alarms should be installed at least 10 feet (3 meters) from a cooking appliance to minimize false alarms when cooking.
• Mount smoke alarms high on walls or ceilings (remember, smoke rises). Wall-mounted alarms should be installed not more than 12 inches away from the ceiling (to the top of the alarm).
• If you have ceilings that are pitched, install the alarm within 3 feet of the peak but not within the apex of the peak (four inches down from the peak)
• Don't install smoke alarms near windows, doors, or ducts where drafts might interfere with their operation.
• Never paint smoke alarms. Paint, stickers, or other decorations could keep the alarms from working.
• For the best protection, interconnect all smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds they all sound. Interconnection can be done using hard-wiring or wireless technology.
• When interconnected smoke alarms are installed, it is important that all of the alarms are from the same manufacturer. If the alarms are not compatible, they may not sound.
• There are two types of smoke alarms – ionization and photoelectric. An ionization smoke alarm is generally more responsive to flaming fires, and a photoelectric smoke alarm is generally more responsive to smoldering fires. For the best protection, both types of alarms or combination ionization-photoelectric alarms, also known as dual sensor smoke alarms, are recommended.
• Keep the manufacturer’s instructions for reference.

Plan Ahead!!

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

In 2016, there were 61,920 wildfires in the U.S., which burned 5.3 million acres, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Nearly 90% of wildfires are caused by humans.

Help reduce your community's wildfire risk by participating in a local event for Wildfire Community Preparedness Day. To see a project map to locate local events, or for more information and resources to host your own event, visit wildfireprepday.org

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan has the water and fire damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. Once the fire department leaves, your Gaylord home may suffer from water damage caused by firefighting efforts. We have the specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Fire Damage Tips

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

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

• 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!

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (989) 705-2400

What To Do After A Fire

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

What NOT To Do After A Fire

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

Smoke Alarms: Life Savers

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

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

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

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

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

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

Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills. 

Cheboygan County Fire Restoration

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your Cheboygan home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. This type of damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan

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

Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today (989) 705-2400

Emmet County Fire Restoration

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

24-Hour Emergency Fire Restoration Service

We know that fire damage can happen any time, so we’re ready to respond 24 hours, 7 days a week—including holidays. We provide immediate emergency fire services for Cheboygan homes or businesses, day or night.

Faster to Any Size Fire Emergency

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan is dedicated to responding immediately to your Cheboygan fire damage emergency. A faster response is the key to help prevent additional damage and to help reduce the restoration cost.

Locally Owned, with National Resources

We are proud to be an active member of this community. SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan is locally owned and operated so we’re already nearby and ready to help Cheboygan residents and business owners with any-sized fire and smoke damage emergencies.

CALL US FOR HELP - 989-705-2400

Antrim County Fire Restoration

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Highly Trained Water and Fire Restoration Specialists

We specialize in fire and water restoration. We’ve received advance training in restoration techniques and we have the experience and specialized equipment to quickly restore your property. Learn about our fire damage training/certificates.

Need Help? Call us - 989-705-2400

Our Fire Restoration Process

Every fire damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

We are available 24 hours, 7 days a week. When you call, one of our representatives will ask a series of questions about the fire damage to your home or business. This information helps us respond immediately with all the needed equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)

In many fire damage cases, it’s necessary to board up missing windows and walls and to place tarps on a damaged roof. This helps to maintain security and to protect against further damage. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

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

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

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

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean and sanitize the restorable items and structures damaged by the fire. Our professionals use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the process or restoring your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve relatively minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and painting, or it could include significant reconstruction of entire rooms.

Kalkaska County Fire Restoration

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (989) 705-2400

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When various materials burn, the soot they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

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

We’re Fire and Water Damage Specialists

As fire and water restoration specialists, we have the training, experience and specialized equipment necessary to restore your home or business. We are committed to providing superior service while restoring your property back to pre-fire condition.

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

Roscommon County Fire Restoration

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Your Belongings and Fire Damage

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan understands your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings make your house more than a structure; they make it home.

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call Us Today – (989) 705-2400

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition. We use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

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

Crawford County Fire Restoration

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Your Belongings and Fire Damage

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call Us Today – (989) 705-2400

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. Move-out will provide several benefits, including:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

Document / Photograph Drying

When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water or fire, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the fire damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-fire damage condition, SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. 

Depending on the type of documents and the level of fire, smoke, or soot damage, they have five options for the restoration of documents:

• Air Drying
• Dehumidification
• Freezer Drying
• Vacuum Freeze Drying
• Vacuum Thermal Drying

Otsego County Fire Restoration

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Your Belongings and Fire Damage

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call Us Today – (989) 705-2400

Contents Claim Inventory Service

When a fire emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. We can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings. We take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding.

Our Contents Claim Inventory Service:

• Preloss list and value of contents
• Detailed and accurate report
• Better information to settle claims quicker
• Assistance with burden of proof for claims

Document / Photograph Drying

When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water or fire, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the fire damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-fire damage condition, SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. 

Depending on the type of documents and the level of fire, smoke, or soot damage, they have five options for the restoration of documents:

• Air Drying
• Dehumidification
• Freezer Drying
• Vacuum Freeze Drying
• Vacuum Thermal Drying

Do you have a fire escape plan?

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Making A Plan

• Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home
• Make sure everyone knows where to meet outside in case of fire
• Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year and at different times of the day. 
• Make sure everyone knows how to call 911
• Teach household members to STOP, DROP, and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

Follow Your Escape Plan

During a home fire, remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT and call 911 or your local emergency phone number.

• If closed doors or handles are warm, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to the touch
• Crawl low under smoke
• Go to your outside meeting place and then for help
• 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 911. Open a window and wave a brightly colored cloth or flashlight to signal for help.

Fire Safety Tips

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Safety TIPS

About Fire Safety & Prevention

Did you know that if a fire starts in your home, you may have just two minutes to escape? 

The most effective way to protect yourself and your home from fire is to identify and remove fire hazards. 60 percent of house fire deaths occur in homes with no working smoke alarms. During a home fire, working smoke alarms and a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives.

Fire Safety Tips 

• Talk with all household members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.
• Test smoke alarms once a month, if they’re not working, change the batteries.
• If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL for help.
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
• Prepare

Preparing and Preventing a Home Fire - Steps You Can Take Now
 

• Keep items that can catch on fire at least three feet away from anything that gets hot, such as space heaters.
• Never smoke in bed.
• Talk to your children regularly about the dangers of fire, matches and lighters and keep them out of reach.
• Download the Monster Guard: Prepare for Emergencies mobile game to teach kids about fire safety and other disasters.
• Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room or go to sleep.
   

Smoke Alarms

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
• Teach your children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
• Test smoke alarms once a month, if they’re not working, change the batteries.
• Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. Never disable smoke or carbon monoxide alarms.
• Carbon monoxide alarms are not substitutes for smoke alarms. Know the difference between the sound of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.

Check you SMOKE DETECTORS

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Why do we stress about providing smoke alarm tips? Because NFPA’s survey data shows that the public has many misconceptions about smoke alarms, which may put them at increased risk in the event of a home fire. For example, only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced.

SMOKE ALARM TIPS

• Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.
• Make sure you know how old all the smoke alarms are in your home.
• To find out how old a smoke alarm is, look at the date of manufacture on the back of the alarm; the alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date.

• 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.
• There are two kinds of alarms. Ionization smoke alarms are quicker to warn about flaming fires. Photoelectric alarms are quicker to warn about smoldering fires. It is best to use of both types of alarms in the home.
• A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
• People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
• Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan.

Visit our Facebook Page for more Safety Tips!

SERVPRO Of Gaylord & Cheboygan

Fire Extinguisher TIPS

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

A portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives; but portable extinguishers have limitations. Because fire grows and spreads so rapidly, the number one priority for residents is to get out safely.

Safety tips

• Use a portable fire extinguisher when the fire is confined to a small area, such as a wastebasket, and is not growing; everyone has exited the building; the fire department has been called or is being called; and the room is not filled with smoke.
• To operate a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS:
    - Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle
      pointing away from you, and release the locking
      mechanism.
    - Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
    - Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
    - Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.
• For the home, select a multi-purpose extinguisher (can be used on all types of home fires) that is large enough to put out a small fire, but not so heavy as to be difficult to handle.
• Choose a fire extinguisher that carries the label of an independent testing laboratory.
• Read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher and become familiar with its parts and operation before a fire breaks out. Local fire departments or fire equipment distributors often offer hands-on fire extinguisher trainings.
• Install fire extinguishers close to an exit and keep your back to a clear exit when you use the device so you can make an easy escape if the fire cannot be controlled. If the room fills with smoke, leave immediately.
• Know when to go. Fire extinguishers are one element of a fire response plan, but the primary element is safe escape. Every household should have a home fire escape plan and working smoke alarms.

Northern Michigan Smoke and Soot Cleanup

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Northern Michigan Smoke and Soot Cleanup

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan is here to HELP!

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 Gaylord & Cheboygan 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.

Crawford, Otsego, Cheboygan, Charlevoix & Emmet County Smoke and Soot Cleanup

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of  Gaylord & Cheboygan 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 – 877-244-7965

We can help take care of any odor, smoke or soot damage throughout your home in Northern Michigan and the Eastern portion of the upper Peninsula.  

Northern Michigan Fire Restoration

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Damage caused by a fire is devastating for your family and your home. It’s a stressful and confusing time, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. Our professionals will always treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with great care.

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan has the water and fire damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. Once the fire department leaves, your Gaylord home may suffer from water damage caused by firefighting efforts. We have the specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When various materials burn, the soot they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (989) 705-2400

Has soot covered your home?

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

n addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your Gaylord home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. This type of damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Don't wait! Give us a call today and we can help!

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (989) 705-2400

Fire Damage in your Gaylord Home?

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today – (989) 705-2400

SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan understands your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings make your house more than a structure; they make it home.

In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your Gaylord home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. This type of damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

Prevent Holiday Fires!

1/18/2017 (Permalink)

Prevent Holiday Fires

Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don't practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. Its important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don't use the stove or stove top.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are drying, grilling, boiling or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire-- oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains-- away from the stove top.