Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts
Candle Fire Safety
12/1/2022 (Permalink)
Candle Fire Facts
Candles bring the perfect holiday scent to any home and make great gifts to give to any person. Although they bring great joy to people everywhere during the holiday season, it is important to note how to properly and safely use candles. According to the NFPA (National Fire Prevention Association) "Candle fires peak in December and January with 11 percent of house fires in each of these months."
SERVPRO of West Greenville County is 'Faster to Any Disaster' and trained to handle any size fire remediation job, but the first step you can take is to take proper precaution when using candles. Here are some tips from the NFPA.
- Use candle holders that are sturdy, and won’t tip over easily.
- Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface.
- Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame.
- Don’t burn a candle all the way down — put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container.
- Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home.
- Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles.
While all of these tips can help prevent a house fire this holiday season, we understand that disaster can strike at anytime. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of West Greenville County at (864)-292-8570 for services 24/7.
2022 Thanksgiving Fire Safety Tips
10/26/2022 (Permalink)
Thanksgiving is just next month, which means everyone will be doing a lot of cooking these next few weeks. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, there are around 2,300 residential fires each year on Thanksgiving. This rounds up to around 26 million in property losses. Cooking was by far the lead cause, with 73.5 percent of these fires. There are a few safety tips that you can use to help prevent a fire loss Thanksgiving 2022. According to the National Fire Protection Association, these are the top 10 safety tips for Thanksgiving.
Top 10 safety tips
- Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stove top so you can keep an eye on the food.
- Stay in the home when cooking your turkey, and check on it frequently.
- Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay three feet away.
- Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
- Keep knives out of the reach of children.
- Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
- Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
- Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
- Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
- Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.
Keeping these tips in mind while you enjoy the holiday with friends and family is important, but if your home does fall victim to a fire loss, SERVPRO of West Greenville County is open 24/7 to help. Our production crew is faster to any disaster. Give us a call at (864)-292-8570.
National Preparedness Month 2022: Fires
9/17/2022 (Permalink)
With September being National Preparedness Month, we at SERVPRO of West Greenville County like to take this month to give our community reminders on how you can prepare your home and business against disaster. There are all types of disasters that can strike your home or business that are out of our control, but how the structure holds up to the disaster and how quickly the mitigation and remediation work is done, is completely up to you!
When preparing your home or business for a Fire, there are some important things to keep in mind, courtesy of Ready.gov.
- Fire is FAST! In less that 30 seconds, a small flame can grow into a major fire. In minutes, a house can be engulfed in flames.
- Fire is HOT! Heat is more threatening that flames. Room temp. in a fire can be 100 at floor level and rise to 600 at eye level.
- Fire is DARK! It starts bright, but quickly produces black smoke and complete darkness.
To help prepare for a house fire, make sure you have done annual maintance to your fire alarms, and check them monthly to ensure they are working properly. For a business, make sure that sprinkler systems are installed properly and tested regularly. In both structures, keeping the doors closed can not only save your life, but prevent extensive smoke and soot damages to rooms not directly affected by the flames.
To do more research on how to prepare for disaster, visit ready.org.
Fire Remediation PPE 2022
8/6/2022 (Permalink)
Fire Remediation PPE, Just Add Gloves
According to OSHA, “Personal protective equipment is worn to minimize exposure to a variety of hazards. Examples of PPE include such items as gloves, foot and eye protection, protective hearing devices (earplugs, muffs) hard hats, respirators and full body suit.
We take the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) very seriously. On every job that our production crew goes on, there is some use of PPE, even if it is just a mask.
On any fire remediation job, there can be many hazardous materials affected by the fire, such as asbestos, lead, household chemicals, and mold. These materials, on top of the smoke and soot, require additional personal protective equipment to prevent the inhalation and physical contact with any of these harmful substances.
Personal protective equipment that may be required on a fire remediation job, depending on the extent of the damages, could include:
- Respirator/ Face Mask
- Eye Protection
- Foot protection
- Gloves
- Headwear
https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/osha3151.pdf
Grill Fires Peak in July
7/2/2022 (Permalink)
Grill Safety Tips
From the entire staff at SERVPRO of West Greenville County, we want to wish everyone a very Happy and Safe Fourth of July. Although Firework safety is very important during this holiday weekend (check out our blog on Firework Safety Tips), we want to make sure our local community has some safety tips for grilling out this Fourth of July weekend.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, Grill fires have their peak in the month of July. The holidays and warm days lead to more cookouts, and more serious injuries. Here are some tips about how to use grills safely to avoid disaster and injury.
All Grills
- Use propane or charcoal grills outdoors only. Place grills away from the home or deck railings and out from under eaves or overhanging branches.
- Keep kids and pets at least 3 ft. away from grilling areas and never leave the grill unattended.
- Keep grills clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grill and tray below. Always make sure the gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
Propane Grills
- Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it.
- If you smell gas while cooking, immediately move away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not attempt to move the grill.
- If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least 5 minutes before re-lighting.
Charcoal Grills
- If using starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid.
- If using electric charcoal starter, make sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
- Keep charcoal fluid out of reach of children and away from heat sources. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
- When finished, let coals cool completely before transferring to a metal container for disposal.
2022 Memorial Day Firework Refresher
5/12/2022 (Permalink)
Every year, hundreds of fires are started from the irresponsible use of fireworks on holidays like New Years, the Fourth of July, and Memorial day. While fires cannot always be prevented, there are always steps you can take to help protect your home or business from an accident. SERVPRO of West Greenville County wants to provide our valued customers with a brush up of firework safety tips.
Here are a few firework safety tips:
- Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
- Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
- Point fireworks away from people and homes.
- Stand several feet away from lit fireworks.
- Have a hose or bucket of water nearby.
- Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
We hope that everyone has a safe and fun Memorial Day as we all honor the U.S Military men and woman who died serving our country.
What is Fire Remediation?
4/15/2022 (Permalink)
Remediation is defined as the act of remedying or correcting something that has been corrupted or that is deficient. Fire damage remediation is the act of cleaning and restoring property and personal belongings that have sustained smoke or fire damage. Our goal at SERVPRO of West Greenville County is to salvage belongings and restore the property to be inhabited again.
During the process there are multiple steps that our production team takes to get the property back to livable condition. First, we make a plan of action, then we make sure the structure is secure and save. Next, our team provides any water extraction needed. Demolition and debris removal is the next step, before our team can provide smoke and soot removal and mitigation. After the area is clean, repairs and restoration can begin.
If you suffer a fire to your home or business, this is the process that you can expect out of SERVPRO of West Greenville County. We are available 24/7 if disaster should strike. Give us a call at (864)-292-8570 for our Fire Remediation services.
Upstate, SC Business Fire Remediation and Cleaning
2/18/2022 (Permalink)
Cause of Smoke Loss
This Upstate, SC restaurant suffered a water and smoke loss, when a pipe burst which caused their smoker door to open and smolder the entire restaurant. The customers had another company complete water extraction, but needed to open back up to the public as soon as possible. To get the quickest services, they called us at SERVPRO of West Greenville County to complete the remainder of the cleaning and restoration. Our project manager met with the owner and walked the affected space to give them a complete analysis of the work our production crew would complete. Once a plan was set, our crew began disposing of all things that were disposable and removing tables and chairs for cleaning. Ceiling tiles were promptly removed and then our crew began sponging the soot off of all the affected areas. Equipment was set to clean the smoke scent out of the air while work continued. All removed materials were cleaned off site before returning them to the building. The customer was happy with how efficient our production members were. If you suffer fire damage to your business, SERVPRO of West Greenville County is 'Faster to Any Disaster!" Give us a call at (864)-292-8570.
Professorial Smoke and Soot Cleaning 2022
2/4/2022 (Permalink)
It is not common knowledge, to know how to properly clean smoke and soot damage. If you have experienced a fire, then you know how smoke and soot can damage the property, however, improper cleaning can cause further damages. SERVPRO of West Greenville County here to tell you why it is important to leave the cleaning to a professional. Smoke damage can be severe, and often goes much deeper than just the surface.
Trying to clean up a fire or smoke damage on your own, can often exasperate the extent of the soot damage. If you are not using the appropriate products to clean with, it can also cause irritants to your lungs. SERVPRO of West Greenville County makes sure that the building is a safe environment to work in by eliminating the smoke smell and using the appropriate personal protective equipment. These are things that are often not thought of when trying to clean soot damage on your own.
SERVPRO of West Greenville County knows that after a fire is a scary and trying time, but we are “Here to Help!” Call us at (864)-292-8570 to let us help restore your fire or smoke damage.
Christmas Tree Fire Facts
12/10/2021 (Permalink)
Did you know that firefighters respond to around 160 home fires that are started by Christmas trees? According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly half of those fires are caused by electrical distribution and lighting equipment.
Some facts about Christmas Tree Fires; they cause around 10 million in property damage per year, 15% of fires are intentional, and 22% are caused by a heat source being too close to the tree. Having a dry tree greatly increases the chance of a Christmas tree fire. Make sure to keep your live tree well watered to avoid the lights starting a fire.
For any fire cleanup services this holiday season, call SERVPRO of West Greenville County. We are available 24/7 and are Faster to Any Disaster! Call us at (864)-292-8570.
Thanksgiving Fire Safety Tips
11/4/2021 (Permalink)
Thanksgiving is right around the corner, which means everyone will be doing a lot of cooking these next few weeks. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, there are around 2,300 residential fires each year on Thanksgiving. This rounds up to around 26 million in property losses. Cooking was by far the lead cause, with 73.5 percent of these fires. There are a few safety tips that you can use to help prevent a fire loss Thanksgiving 2021. According to the National Fire Protection Association, these are the top 10 safety tips for Thanksgiving.
Top 10 safety tips
- Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stove top so you can keep an eye on the food.
- Stay in the home when cooking your turkey, and check on it frequently.
- Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay three feet away.
- Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
- Keep knives out of the reach of children.
- Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
- Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
- Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
- Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
- Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.
Keeping these tips in mind while you enjoy the holiday with friends and family is important, but if your home does fall victim to a fire loss, SERVPRO of West Greenville County is open 24/7 to help. Our production crew is faster to any disaster. Give us a call at (864)-292-8570.
September is National Preparedness Month
8/24/2021 (Permalink)
Did you know that September is National preparedness month? This entire month is set aside in observance to help raise awareness about the importance of preparing for any kind of disaster.
Wildfires have been on a rampage all across the globe this year, making it important to be ready if disaster may strike your area.
First, you should talk with you family and friends to make a plan. Communication is an important part of being ready. Make sure that your family know what to do and where to go in case you get separated.
Second, you should build a kit with supplies that can last for several days. Make sure to update kits often based on recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control.
Third, know the risks of disaster in your area. This can help you prevent any kind of damage to your home or property. Check your insurance coverage for the types of disasters that are more common in your area.
Lastly, know who to call if your home or business does suffer damaged due to a disaster. Having the right people available to help mitigate, remediate, and reconstruct your home will give you great peace of mind.
At SERVPRO of West Greenville County, our team are trained to handle any job and we are faster to any disaster! Call us to help make a plan. (864)-295-8570
Stay safe and be prepared!
Personal Protective Equipment – Fire Remediation
8/2/2021 (Permalink)
Personal Protective Equipment – Fire Remediation
According to OSHA, “Personal protective equipment is worn to minimize exposure to a variety of hazards. Examples of PPE include such items as gloves, foot and eye protection, protective hearing devices (earplugs, muffs) hard hats, respirators and full body suits.”
At SERVPRO of West Greenville County we take the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) very seriously. On every job that our production crew goes on, there is some use of PPE, even if it is just a mask.
On any fire remediation job, there can be many hazardous materials affected by the fire, such as asbestos, lead, household chemicals, and mold. These materials, on top of the smoke and soot, require additional personal protective equipment to prevent the inhalation and physical contact with any of these harmful substances.
Personal protective equipment that may be required on a fire remediation job, depending on the extent of the damages, could include:
- Respirator/ Face Mask
- Eye Protection
- Foot protection
- Gloves
- Headwear
https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/osha3151.pdf
Fire Remediation
7/2/2021 (Permalink)
At SERVPRO of West Greenville County, the most common jobs that we are called about are water mitigation jobs. However, on average our offices get 2-3 fire remediation calls per week. Even though our production team sees more water related jobs on a weekly basis, fire jobs are also common. This is why at SERVPRO of West Greenville County, we make sure that our project managers and production crew are just as specialized and trained to complete fire remediation jobs. Each and every year, our crew study our remediation manuals to refresh their skills, helping to ensure proper cleaning of our customers contents and homes. There are many steps to take while cleaning smoke and soot damage to ensure the materials are properly cleaned and do not leave streaks or smoke smell. This routine training ensures that our crew are better prepared for any disaster. Give us a call if you experience a fire at your home or business. Call us at (864)-292-8570!
Happy Fourth- Be Safe!
7/2/2021 (Permalink)
Fourth of July Fireworks
Fourth of July is one of the many holidays that we Americans use to celebrate the occasion. While fireworks can be a fun way to commemorate the special day, they can also quickly lead to disaster. Make sure that this fourth you practice some of our safety tips posted in our ‘Firework Safety’ blog!
It has been reported by NFPA that more that 18,000 fires a year are started by firework mishaps, with the Fourth of July accounting for many of them!
However, if you do suffer a loss to your home or business, we at SERVPRO of West Greenville County are faster to any disaster! We are available 24/7 to deal with any disaster that you may have. Give us a call at (864)-292-8570.
From the crew at SERVPRO West Greenville County, Have a great Fourth and please be safe!
Common House Fires
5/27/2021 (Permalink)
Stove Fire in Greenville, SC
At SERVPRO of West Greenville County, the most common cause of house fires is caused by a stovetop/oven. Thankfully, these fires tend to not extend much further than the kitchen in the cases we have seen, but soot and smoke damage can cause damage throughout the entire house. As can be seen in the photo, this fire was contained to the stove and countertop, causing little damage that needed demolition work. However, the smoke and soot reached even the second story of the home, traveling through the HVAC and duct work. At SERVPRO of West Greenville County, our production crew are specialized in cleaning and restoring any damage that results from a fire. Our crew can not only provide demolition services, but also help restore the home and its contents to preloss condition.
If you experience a kitchen fire similar to this Greenville, SC family, give us a call at SERVPRO of West Greenville County at (864)-292-8570.
Second Story of Greenville Home Damaged by Fire
4/23/2021 (Permalink)
Soot Damage to Walls
A fire broke out in this home at the very beginning of 2021 in the family’s master bedroom. The entirety of the second floor was affected by not only smoke and soot damage, but also some significant water damage from where the firefighters put the flames out. A loss like this can be absolutely devastating and at SERVPRO of West Greenville County we completely understand that. That is why when we get calls like we did from this family’s insurance agent; we were extremely quick to respond. The family was grateful of how fast our production crew were able to come out and begin restoration and mitigation of their home. While some of their belongings were completely lost to the fire, the majority we were able to take to our warehouse and clean the soot from. Jobs like this may take some time to completely finish because smoke is a hard odor to remove, but SERVPRO of West Greenville County will keep you informed every step of the way. Give us a call for any mitigation, restoration, or cleaning needs at (864)-292-8570.
Potential Causes for Holiday Fires
12/2/2020 (Permalink)
Fires around the holidays are very common. SERVPRO of West Greenville County hopes everyone has had a fire free holiday season. Here are the main causes of holiday/winter fires:
Fireplaces
During the winter and holiday season people use their fireplaces more. Be sure to clean out your fireplace and watch the fire until it is completely burned out.
Cooking
Throughout the holiday season people tend to cook more. Many people will start cooking and leave their food unattended. If you are cooking in the oven, do not forget to turn it off!!
Decorative Lights
Make sure the lights you choose to decorate with do not have frayed wires. This could easily start an electrical fire. We recommend you do not leave lights up year-round, as the chances of that strand catching fire increases.
Candles
People also tend to light more candles during the winter and holiday season. According to the National Fire Protection Association, four of the five most dangerous days of the year for residential candle fires are Christmas, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Day, and New Year’s Eve. If you light a candle, make sure it is away from anything that could blow on it and catch fire. Also make sure it is on a sturdy surface and you don't forget to blow it out.
Christmas Trees
It is very common for a Christmas tree to catch fire if it is not treated properly. Make sure you water your Christmas tree if it is real in order to reduce the chance of it catching fire.
If you happen to experience a fire don't forget you can call SERVPRO of West Greenville County at 864-292-8570!!
October is Fire Prevention Month!
9/23/2020 (Permalink)
Did you know that October was named fire prevention month because of the great fire that took place in Chicago in 1871? It is important that we raise awareness to the families and businesses of our community but educating people on how to practice fire safety. This year the NFPA’s 2020 campaign for Fire Safety Month is, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen”.
SERVPRO of West Greenville County is happy to support this campaign and we have a few tips for how you can practice fire safety while in the kitchen.
- Install a smoke detector near, but not in the kitchen.
- Never leave cooking food unattended.
- Keep dish towels, potholders, and paper towels away from the stove.
While it is important to know how to prevent a fire in your kitchen, accidents do still happen and can be devastating to your family’s home. SERVPRO of West Greenville County can assist with the clean-up, demolition, and restoration of any house fire. Our production crew is always, “Here to Help”!
Firework Safety TIps
7/6/2020 (Permalink)
Fireworks are used often when a holiday or special event occurs. With July 4th just happening, we wanted to inform you of some firework safety tips. Fireworks start around 18,500 fires per year, whether it be a structure fire, vehicle fire, or outside fire.
SERVPRO of West Greenville County wants nothing more than our residents to be safe while using fireworks.
Here are a few firework safety tips:
- Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
- Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
- Point fireworks away from people and homes.
- Stand several feet away from lit fireworks.
- Have a hose or bucket of water nearby.
- Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
If something happens to go wrong, and you experience fire damage, call SERVPRO of West Greenville County at 864-292-8570
When your West Greenville home or business suffers fire damage, it can be especially devastating. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, your property may have substantial water damage from firefighting efforts. You may feel stressed and confused after such a disaster, and you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of West Greenville County has the specialized fire and water damage equipment and expertise to help you through this tough time.We promise to treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Smoke and Soot Damage After a Fire
6/24/2020 (Permalink)
If you've experienced a home or building fire, then you know how smoke and soot can damage your property.
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 West Greenville County 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 – 864-292-8570
Restoration Tips for Fire Damage
6/10/2020 (Permalink)
Experiencing a fire in your home or commercial office can be terrifying and stressful. SERVPRO of West Greenville County understands the stress that comes with restoring your home after a fire, and we are here to help some of that stress go away.
Below are what we believe to be some of the most important fire damage restoration tips:
Limit Movement in the Building
Be sure to limit the amount of movement and activity in the building where the fire occurred. This prevents the soot from spreading throughout the house and becoming harder to clean. You do not want to make the damage to your home worse.
Remove Smoke Damage
A lot of the damage from a fire occurs to the walls of the home or building. Whether your walls are painted or you have wallpaper you will need to clean them. If the fire is minor, you most likely can scrub your walls with bleach and detergents to clean them. If the fire is more serious you will probably want to repaint, but give time for the walls to be cleaned and dried. Soot often appears on walls after a fire. Soot is greasy, so be sure to dust this off of the walls before cleaning them.
Remove Mold & Mildew
Often times mold and mildew appears in your home after a fire due to the water that is used to put out the fire. We highly recommend having a fire damage restoration service inspect your house for mold and mildew to help prevent another serious problem from entering your home. Here at SERVPRO we can help restore your home after a fire and make sure no mold appears!
Repair Carpet and Flooring
Just like the water used to put out the fire can cause mold and mildew, the water can also cause immense damage to your floors. Your carpet and floors end up absorbing a lot of the water that is used to put out the fire. Water can also get under and in the cracks of flooring. This then leads to water damage in your home. Luckily, we are a water and fire damage restoration service, so we can tackle both!
Clean Clothing Properly
Making sure you clean your clothes after a fire is extremely important. We want to make sure you are able to restore as many things as possible. Be sure to not smear the greasy soot into your clothing- this will be very difficult to get out. Also don't rush to put your clothes in the washing machine. Often times, getting them professionally dry cleaned will be your best option.
Clean Dishes Thoroughly
It is extremely important to wash all of your dishes thoroughly after a house fire because what you put on your dishes will be put into your body. Be sure to scrub all dishes and let them soak in a solution of water and bleach for about 20-30 minutes, then scrub some more. The solution should contain 2 tablespoons of bleach per gallon of water. Throw out any dishes that do not become fully cleaned.
Call SERVPRO of West Greenville County to help you with your fire damage restoration needs!!
Fire Safety
5/27/2020 (Permalink)
Fire safety is a very important thing to be aware of, and everyone should know the basic safety procedures to prepare for a possible fire and what to do if a fire occurs.
Preparing for Home Fires
- Install smoke alarms on every level of your home.
- Test smoke alarms every month to make sure they are working properly.
- Plan and discuss a fire escape plan with your family.
During a Fire
- Escape immediately using the best route.
- If a door handle or door feels warm, do not open it and get out of the home using a different route.
- Once you are out to the building call 911.
- Never go back inside for anything.
- If your clothes catch on fire: STOP, DROP, and ROLL!
- If you're stuck inside the house, cover any area where smoke might get in and find a way to signal help that you are still in the house. Do this by either calling 911 and telling them, or find a flashlight or phone light and hold it up to a window.
These are just a few of the basic rules in dealing with home fires. If you experience a home fire, SERVPRO of West Greenville County is here to make this hard situation much more bearable.
Call us at 864-292-8570 if you need help restoring your home after fire damage!
Potential Causes of Holiday Fires
12/26/2019 (Permalink)
Fires around the holidays are very common. SERVPRO of West Greenville County hopes everyone has had a fire free holiday season. Here are the main causes of holiday/winter fires:
Fireplaces
During the winter and holiday season people use their fire places more. Be sure to clean out your fireplace and watch the fire until it is completely burned out.
Cooking
Throughout the holiday season people tend to cook more. Many people will start cooking and leave their food unattended. If you are cooking in the oven, do not forget to turn it off!!
Decorative Lights
Make sure the lights you choose to decorate with do not have frayed wires. This could easily start an electrical fire. We recommend you do not leave lights up year round, as the chances of that strand catching fire increases.
Candles
People also tend to light more candles during the winter and holiday season. According to the National Fire Protection Association, four of the five most dangerous days of the year for residential candle fires are Christmas, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Day, and New Year’s Eve. If you light a candle make sure it is away from anything that could blow on it and catch fire. Also make sure it is on a sturdy surface and you don't forget to blow it out.
Christmas Trees
It is very common for a Christmas tree to catch fire if it is not treated properly. Make sure you water your Christmas tree if it is real in order to reduce the chance of it catching fire.
If you happen to experience a fire don't forget you can call SERVPRO of West Greenville County at 864-292-8570!!
How to Prevent a Kitchen Fire
9/29/2019 (Permalink)
Kitchen fires are some of the main causes of a home fire. Here are 10 tips on how to prevent kitchen fires:
- Never leave a cooking area unattended.
- Clean cooking surfaces regularly to avoid grease buildup.
- Never wear loose clothing while cooking near an open flame.
- Keep pot holders, towels, utensils, plastic bags, oven mitts etc. away from anything that generates heat in your kitchen.
- Check your kitchen before you leave the house or go to bed to make your sure everything is turned off.
- Have smoke alarms installed in your kitchen and throughout your home.
- Use a timer to remember that the stove or oven is on.
- Unplug electric appliances when they aren't in use.
- Use caution with what you put in the microwave- make sure you are using microwave safe containers.
- Don't overfill pots and pans with oil or grease.
SERVPRO of West Greenville County wants you to be safe and aware of the safety tips of cooking in a kitchen. If you do ever experience a home fire, call us at 864-292-8570 and we will help restore your home!
Call SERVPRO for Fire Damage Restoration
7/8/2019 (Permalink)
Have you ever experienced a home or commercial building fire? If you have, you know it can be an extremely scary time for multiple people. SERVPRO of West Greenville County specializes in fire damage restoration and we are here to help you! We assure you we have the expertise to make sure your home is restored properly.
We have experience working with commercial and residential fires. Multiple of our fire damage restoration jobs have been rooted from kitchen fires. A lot of times the walls and ceiling are the main areas that are damaged. Homeowners call SERVPRO in hopes that we could restore their home back to how it was before the fire happened, and we do just that!
If you ever experience a fire and need to restore your home, call SERVPRO of West Greenville County at 864-292-8570! We work efficiently and effectively to get the job done!
Local Church Fire Damage
7/9/2018 (Permalink)
One of the offices damaged by the fire.
A local church experienced was broken into and the person set fire to two offices and the auditorium in the church. The fire also caused a water line to spray water leading to water damage throughout the church as well. This left the church with fire and water damage in multiple rooms. SERVPRO of West Greenville County is continuing to help this church restore their property after this tragic incident. The people at the church are very thankful for SERVPRO and the work they are putting in to get the church back to normal.
Damage caused by a fire is devastating for everyone involved. It's a stressful and confusing time. Our professionals will always treat you with respect and empathy, and we'll always treat your property and belongings with care.
Call SERVPRO of West Greenville County if you happen to experience fire damage 864-292-8570
Fireworks Safety
6/27/2018 (Permalink)
Fireworks are ofen used when a holiday or special event occurs. With the fourth of July coming up next week SERVPRO of West Greenville County wants to share a few tips to make sure you are staying safe. Fireworks start around 18,500 fires per year, whether it be a structure fire, vehicle fire, or outside fire.
SERVPRO of West Greenville County wants nothing more than our residents to be safe while using fireworks.
Here are a few firework safety tips:
- Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
- Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
- Point fireworks away from people and homes.
- Stand several feet away from lit fireworks.
- Have a hose or bucket of water nearby.
- Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
If something happens to go wrong and you experience fire damage call SERVPRO of West Greenville County at 864-292-8570
When your West Greenville home or business suffers fire damage, it can be especially devastating. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, your property may have substantial water damage from firefighting efforts. You may feel stressed and confused after such a disaster, and you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of West Greenville County has the specialized fire and water damage equipment and expertise to help you through this tough time.We promise to treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Fire Damage Restoration in Greenville, SC
9/28/2017 (Permalink)
The damage in the kitchen caused by the fire.
A kitchen in an apartment complex in Greenville, SC caught fire earlier this year due to an appliance while cooking. The stove caught fire and damaged the walls, ceiling, cabinets, and microwave. After attempting to stop the fire, the apartment also experienced major water damage.
SERVPRO of West Greenville County was called in to clean up the aftermath! We extracted water from the carpet and vinyl flooring and cleaned up all the smoke damage. The owners were very impressed with the job SERVPRO completed and how fast we got the job done!
Experiencing a house or apartment fire can be an extremely scary and stressful time! SERVPRO of West Greenville county is here to make that hard time a little easier and make your home look "Like it never even happened." Call us today at 864-292-8570 if you experience fire or water damage and need restoration completed in your home!
Electrical Fire Causes Major Fire Damage in Williamston, SC Home
6/22/2017 (Permalink)
Fire damage in the kitchen after the electrical fire.
An electrical fire that started in the laundry room and spread throughout the house caused fire damage to this home in Williamston, SC. Most windows in the home broke, and the ceiling collapsed leading to major damage. SERVPRO of West Greenville County worked as hard as they could to make this difficult time much easier for this family.We restored the home and fixed all of the fire damage. The family was very appreciative for everything SERVPRO of West Greenville County did to help them in this hard time!
Check out one of our earlier blog posts for fire safety tips so you are prepared if you ever experience a fire in your home or business!
SERVPRO of West Greenville County is trained to handle any size job that comes our way! Times like these where you experience unexpected damage to your home can be very hard and we are here to make it a little more bearable, just call 864-292-8570
Lightening strikes Church in South Carolina
1/4/2017 (Permalink)
Church's multimedia room caught fire from lightening strike consequently suffering the most damage in this loss.
This church in South Carolina suffered from a fire caused by a strike of lightening to the building, catching its multimedia room in the basement on fire. SERVPRO of West Greenville County, along with other SERVPRO teams worked around the clock to remediate the problem, so that business could be restored as quickly and seamlessly as possible. Many organizations are at risk for a fire, especially when they reside in older buildings in need of repairs. We know how costly and devastating a fire can be to a business, so it is always our goal to get you back up and running right away.
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.
What to Expect:
When we visit your establishment after a fire loss, we will scope the effected areas to determine the extent of the loss. We will always pretest affected surfaces to determine the type of smoke and which products will help us recover the area most effectively. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. If a fire has damaged your business, call us right away at (864) 292-8570. SERVPRO of West Greenville County will treat you with empathy and respect, and your property with care.
Commercial Restoration Presents Unique Challenges
Fire damage is especially devastating for a business or commercial property. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, significant water damage from firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. SERVPRO of West Greenville County has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies. Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, motel, or office building, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.
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 West Greenville County 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.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (864) 292-8570
Teaming Up With The American Red Cross for Fire Prevention Month
10/3/2016 (Permalink)
Home fire safety checklist from www,redcross.org/homefires
October is Fire Prevention month
SERVPRO of West Greenville County wants to help you prepare for and learn how you can prevent fire damage to your home! SERVPRO Industries, Inc. and SERVPRO of West Greenville County support The American Red Cross and the effort to inform and help our community learn home fire safety.
On average, 36 people suffer injuries as a result of home fires every day. Don’t let a home fire happen to you and your family. The American Red Cross can help you learn tips on how to prevent a home fire at your household, and help prevent injury to you or your loved ones. Make sure your family can safely escape your home in less than 2 minutes. Test your smoke alarms. To learn more please visit www.redcross.org/homefires for home fire prevention information. Don’t let a home fire affect your family.
Over $7 billion in property damage occurs every year due to home fires-
Your help is needed in any and every form. If you can donate please visit, http://redcross.org/cm/SERVPROindustries-pub. If you can give your time or effort, please become an American Red Cross volunteer at www.redcross.org to help others recover from home fires.
You can also visit The American Red Cross's website to download fire safety checklists and home fire escape plans to help your family prepare in the event of a disaster.
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