Fire Damage - How Mitigate

5/1/2024 (Permalink)

We can always be a resource to you no matter the type of loss

Get 24/7 SERVPRO Emergency Fire Mitigation

Fire damage can be overwhelming and complex for Brookline homeowners to navigate without professional assistance. Flames leave behind soot, debris, and malodors. They can also leave homeowners tackling water damage and residues from extinguishing efforts. DIY cleanup solutions may appear cost-effective in the short term. Still, these efforts may impart unintentional secondary damages that affect a home’s structural integrity and comfort, leading to more costly repairs over time.

Brookline SERVPRO fire and smoke damage restoration technicians remediate soot and soils per Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards. This accredited disaster cleanup firm performs soot removal, debris cleaning, and water mitigation to return affected homes to a clean and safe condition before rebuilding and moving contents back into the property.

Cleanup Challenges Created by Fire Damage

Cleaning up smoke and fire damage with consumer-grade solutions can prove challenging and even frustrating for many homeowners. Smoke residues differ based on factors like what was burnt and the temperature of the flames. Loose, dry soils might be easier to clean than wet soils from burnt plastics, but they can still smear easily and potentially stain surfaces without the right care. DIY cleaning in a fire damage situation can also affect how insurers compensate homeowners for their repair and mitigation needs.

Other considerations that restoration technicians can address with specially crafted tools include:

• Migration of soot particles and clusters into the HVAC system
• The proliferation of both light and heavy soils, including charring on wood surfaces
• Odors and residues caused by burnt proteins

Because of the widely varied types of care needed for fire restoration, including odor control, soot cluster removal, debris disposal, and char mitigation, homeowners are highly encouraged to use a firm like SERVPRO. Not only does SERVPRO inspect and perform mitigation, but the team can also perform necessary documentation, inventory, and rebuilding services that let residents comfortably enjoy their properties as soon as possible.

SERVPRO’s Suite of Fire Remediation Tools

The success of professional fire restoration tools and processes relies on some very consistent truths about fire and smoke damage:

• Ceilings need to be cleaned first, as smoke tends to rise and do the most damage above a fire’s source instead of below
• Residues are primarily either hydrophilic or lipophilic
• Protein residues need powerful enzyme digesters to mitigate these otherwise hard-to-remove soils
• HVAC needs to be inspected during fire cleanup, even if it does not seem like it was impacted
• Water damage from flame suppression needs to be dried before cleanup can commence in earnest

The more quickly SERVPRO can act on these principles of fire damage mitigation, the more likely it is that technicians can preserve a home with minimal necessary demolition and repairs. Residents typically do not need to wait for an insurance adjuster to examine their home before calling a fire restoration company.

Cleanup starts with the lightest, driest soils, and works from ceiling to floor. Technicians typically use items like clean cloths and dry cleaning sponges for this type of soot, which can fall to the floor and be collected with the help of HEPA-filter vacuums and negative air pressure machines pulling smoke particles toward the ground.

Heavier damages, particularly on walls, can be remediated with alkaline cleaners and other EPA-registered SERVPRO solutions. Wood and furnishings with charring can be treated with gentle but effective abrasion media like soda ash or dry ice pressurized pellets.

SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton, & Brookline serves communities in need with “Like it never even happened” levels of cleanup. Property owners can call (617) 903-5055 to kick-start the restoration process.

Removing Tough Fire Damage Residues in Brookline with SERVPRO Equipment

4/7/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO fire damage cleanup and restoration equipment restores a Brookline home to preloss condition, "Like it never even happened."

Get 24/7 SERVPRO Emergency Fire Mitigation

Fire damage can be overwhelming and complex for Brookline homeowners to navigate without professional assistance. Flames leave behind soot, debris, and malodors. They can also leave homeowners tackling water damage and residues from extinguishing efforts. DIY cleanup solutions may appear cost-effective in the short term. Still, these efforts may impart unintentional secondary damages that affect a home’s structural integrity and comfort, leading to more costly repairs over time.

Brookline SERVPRO fire and smoke damage restoration technicians remediate soot and soils per Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards. This accredited disaster cleanup firm performs soot removal, debris cleaning, and water mitigation to return affected homes to a clean and safe condition before rebuilding and moving contents back into the property.

Cleanup Challenges Created by Fire Damage

Cleaning up smoke and fire damage with consumer-grade solutions can prove challenging and even frustrating for many homeowners. Smoke residues differ based on factors like what was burnt and the temperature of the flames. Loose, dry soils might be easier to clean than wet soils from burnt plastics, but they can still smear easily and potentially stain surfaces without the right care. DIY cleaning in a fire damage situation can also affect how insurers compensate homeowners for their repair and mitigation needs.

Other considerations that restoration technicians can address with specially crafted tools include:

• Migration of soot particles and clusters into the HVAC system
• The proliferation of both light and heavy soils, including charring on wood surfaces
• Odors and residues caused by burnt proteins

Because of the widely varied types of care needed for fire restoration, including odor control, soot cluster removal, debris disposal, and char mitigation, homeowners are highly encouraged to use a firm like SERVPRO. Not only does SERVPRO inspect and perform mitigation, but the team can also perform necessary documentation, inventory, and rebuilding services that let residents comfortably enjoy their properties as soon as possible.

SERVPRO’s Suite of Fire Remediation Tools

The success of professional fire restoration tools and processes relies on some very consistent truths about fire and smoke damage:

• Ceilings need to be cleaned first, as smoke tends to rise and do the most damage above a fire’s source instead of below
• Residues are primarily either hydrophilic or lipophilic
• Protein residues need powerful enzyme digesters to mitigate these otherwise hard-to-remove soils
• HVAC needs to be inspected during fire cleanup, even if it does not seem like it was impacted
• Water damage from flame suppression needs to be dried before cleanup can commence in earnest

The more quickly SERVPRO can act on these principles of fire damage mitigation, the more likely it is that technicians can preserve a home with minimal necessary demolition and repairs. Residents typically do not need to wait for an insurance adjuster to examine their home before calling a fire restoration company.

Cleanup starts with the lightest, driest soils, and works from ceiling to floor. Technicians typically use items like clean cloths and dry cleaning sponges for this type of soot, which can fall to the floor and be collected with the help of HEPA-filter vacuums and negative air pressure machines pulling smoke particles toward the ground.

Heavier damages, particularly on walls, can be remediated with alkaline cleaners and other EPA-registered SERVPRO solutions. Wood and furnishings with charring can be treated with gentle but effective abrasion media like soda ash or dry ice pressurized pellets.

SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton, & Brookline serves communities in need with “Like it never even happened” levels of cleanup. Property owners can call (617) 903-5055 to kick-start the restoration process.

Why Thorough Inspection is Necessary During Fire Damage Restoration in Brookline

3/7/2023 (Permalink)

Our techs are ready 24/7, 365 days a year.

SERVPRO Inspects HVAC System in Brookline During Fire Damage Cleanup

Several systems within a building need to be inspected by professionals during fire damage restoration. Irrespective of the fire size, never assume that everything is okay after the fire. Soot particles can penetrate unimaginable areas and cause damage you should have prevented by acting appropriately.

One of the systems that our SERVPRO technicians inspect during fire damage cleanup in your Brookline property is the HVAC system. Suppose it is running or you make the mistake of operating it immediately after the incident. In that case, its filters may get clogged by soot and smoke particles. The appliance may not function efficiently and can spread the contaminants to other areas.

To unclog the filters and prevent further damage, our team performs the following procedures:

• The HVAC system is turned off before attempting any restoration procedure.
• Inspection: We remove the filters and closely inspect them for signs of clogging
• Cleaning: Slightly clogged filters are vacuumed or washed with soap and water. We then make sure they are completely dry before fixing them back.
• Assessment of other components: Our SERVPRO technicians check whether the evaporator coil, blower motor, and other components have been affected and recommend the necessary repair or replacement of fire damage.

Other systems that require careful and thorough inspection include electrical, plumbing, fire suppression, security, and structural systems. The goal is to make sure your property is safe for reoccupation. To reduce possible long-term effects and risks, work with a fire damage company that meets the IICRC standards and follows the local regulations.

Call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline at (617) 903-5055 when you need urgent cleaning and restoration services to your residential or commercial property. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster and use advanced equipment for an efficient and stress-free process.

SERVPRO Helps Avoid Fire Restoration Hazards in Brookline

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

All you need is SERVPRO for all your water damage needs. Call (617) 903-5055.

SERVPRO Keeps You Safe During Fire Restoration Activities in Brookline

Many Brookline residents are unaware of the potential hazards after a fire in their Brookline homes. Fire department has extinguished the fire, and they are ready to leave. Should you enter the house and try to recover some of your belongings, mementos, and important papers? Or wait for help from your insurance company and a restoration crew? Has your home been designated as unsafe to enter?

SERVPRO provides fire restoration services to residents of Brookline. We can be onsite within four hours of your call at any time of the day. Our team leader will assess the damage and any safety issues. We check for overhead hazards such as collapsing ceilings, electrical shock hazards from water damage to electrical wires, slip and fall hazards, poor lighting, and maintaining the security of your home or business until repairs can be arranged.

During the clean-up and restoration phase of the project, our team works closely with the client to retrieve any items needed for insurance claims, recovery of heirlooms, and other important things. We take the utmost care to avoid further damage and reduce secondary damage as much as possible. Our objective is to clean and restore whenever possible vs. replace. 

Before beginning restoration, we remove all water, chemicals, charred materials, and smoke residues. Our restoration team includes all the trades needed to restore a home, including electricians, plumbing and heating experts, drywall and flooring installers, and many more.

We can save you time and manage your total costs by utilizing our building services teams to coordinate repairs and restoration activities. Our services at SERVPRO include:

• Fire damage restoration and repair
• Smoke remediation and odor removal
• House fire clean up

Call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline for fire restoration services. We provide service to Brookline and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (617) 903-5055.

Fire Restoration on Unfinished Surfaces in Brookline Homes

7/10/2022 (Permalink)

After a fire in your home, you need quick remediation services. SERVPRO technicians are available any time to assess and remediate your fire damage.

SERVPRO Readily Handles Fire Cleanup in Brookline

You may think of fire damage only in terms of consuming materials, reducing them to charred pieces or fine residue like ash. However, fire also leaves surfaces caked with residues requiring extensive cleanup work. The condition of the soiled surface in your Brookline home matters since the porosity level influences the cleaning challenge. Fire restoration requires special attention or equipment if the affected areas include brick, wood, or concrete surfaces.

Whenever cleaning as part of fire restoration in Brookline properties, it is essential to consider whether the process might worsen the soiling or damage the underlying material. The problem for resilient materials such as brick or concrete is mostly soil setting since it takes tremendous force to harm them. On the other hand, significant moisture absorption, heavy agitation, and harsh chemicals can readily damage unfinished wood. SERVPRO fire restoration technicians comprehend these issues, so we try to create the best conditions to facilitate cleaning.

Cleaning unfinished surfaces requires:

• Special chemical agents like denatured alcohol
• Abrasive resources like sandpaper
• Vacuuming equipment
• Protective clothing like gloves, respirators, and goggles

Cleaning unfinished surfaces

You can achieve restoration through dry or wet cleaning. Starting with dry cleaning helps remove all loose residues, so that wet cleaning does not send them deeper into the surface. The method choice also depends on whether the situation involves wet or dry smoke residues. For dry cleaning, our SERVPRO IICRC-certified technicians combine an abrasive option like sanding with one that collects residues conveniently, such as vacuuming.

Wet cleaning helps remove the stubborn soils attached or embedded to the surface. The wet cleaning phase allows using potent chemical agents and rinsing of the surfaces once the process is over. Our SERVPRO technicians can use a pump sprayer to apply the cleaning agent or buckets and towels.

Reasons professionals finish wet cleaning faster

• Giving solutions sufficient dwell time
• Avoiding dipping soiled towels in cleaning solutions
• Heating the cleaning solution

SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline can help you with any challenging fire restoration task. Call us at (617) 903-5055. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

The Types of Smoke Residues in Brookline Homes Require Cleaning

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Trust the FSRT fire and smoke damage restoration technicians from SERVPRO to restore your home in Brookline, "Like it never even happened."

Fire Damage Requires Multiple Cleaning Approaches for Brookline Properties

Fires can produce multiple types of residues and soil deposits that must be overcome to restore the home to its original condition. Our SERVPRO team responds fast to help with this needed mitigation and deep cleaning. Most smoke deposits and residues left behind after combustion require cleanup and restoration services. Common smoke damage types include:

• Dry Smoke
• Wet Smoke
• Protein Residues

Dry Smoke Residues

While it is among the easier fire damage in Brookline homes to resolve, dry smoke damages still require specific recovery processes to clear. These types of residues are produced by high heat fires that combust products almost completely, leaving only a thin layer of chalky residue on nearby surfaces. In many cases, dry cleaning products like chemical sponges can be an effective tool to remove these deposits.

Wet Smoke Damage

Wet smoke is among the most challenging residue types to remove from surfaces, as these are usually thick and moist. In most situations, some wet cleaning products are ineffective for overcoming these soils and can smear the residue or stain the underlying surfaces. Emulsification is a chemical process that can often pull soils away from the connected substrate to wipe clean.

Protein/Grease Fire Residues

These are commonly produced during kitchen fires and can be a difficult obstacle for restoration professionals. The thickness of these residues and their oily consistency makes them challenging to remove without applying solvents to dissolve the soils. Products must be carefully considered to avoid damaging the finish of impacted surfaces.

The type of smoke residue that exists plays a considerable part in how easy property is to clean and the extensive restoration processes necessary to return a home to preloss condition. The fast response of our SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline team gets these mitigative strategies started as soon as possible. Call today at (617) 903-5055.

Tips For Fire Restoration

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be very messy. Know what to do in case you are ever confronted with it.

Fire damage restoration is complicated for those who do not deal with it on a consistent basis. Many times we get calls to ask for advice on how to clean up after fire. Below we have listed tips that can help most fire cleanup situations.

Please keep in mind that fire damage restoration takes time and skill. See below and realistically consider whether you want to try these ideas on your own or enlist the help of a restoration specialist like SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline, where we will guarantee our work!

1. Remove smoke damage

Wash walls one small area at a time. Work from floor up to prevent streaking. Wash the ceiling last. Wipe down and dry the areas that got wet to prevent possible growth of mold and mildew. You can do this with small solution of household bleach and water. If drywall and insulation is soaked your best option is to contact a professional to ensure the materials are fully dried.

SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline 617-903-5055 will help

2. Limit activity and movement

Once you are cleared to reenter your home by first responders do your best to work on one area at a time to prevent spreading soot into other areas. The worst thing you can do is give yourself more work in what is already considered a very laborious process. Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet in high traffic areas.

3. Avoid smearing soot into fabrics

Soot from smoke damage is greasy so ensure you dust it off to prevent rubbing it your fabrics and upholstery. Fabrics and upholstery are very porous and will likely absorb the smoke odor. You may need to wash the fabrics multiple times in order to fully get rid of the smoke odor. Make sure that your hands and cleaning equipment is clean so you do not add more soot to the material.

4. Thoroughly Dry Everything!

This will be the most important yet tedious step. You will need to determine whether or not you should restore (dry) or replace items that were affected by the water (ie. carpet, flooring, insulation and more). It takes on average about 48hrs for a wet area to promote the growth and spread of mold. Your home will most likely be wet if a fire department put out the fire. Before repainting and putting things back to its original place make sure your walls, insulation, ceiling, furniture and all other porous materials are completely dry. You can rent commercial grade fans and open windows. The key is to know when everything is dry! Do not stress yourself and make the mistake of turning the fans off too soon. Instead, call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline. We have the equipment that will let us know what areas need to be dried and when drying has been completed.

5. Repaint & Restore

Once the walls are thoroughly cleaned and dry you can repaint a fresh coat of paint on the walls and ceiling. Before painting it is very important that the walls and ceiling is thoroughly dried so there are no streaks. You are now ready to put furniture back in its original space.

Fires are no joke and the damage they leave behind much less. Our goal here at SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline is to be able to make the restoration process as seamless as possible. That way you can work on getting the rest of your life back in order pre-fire. Let us help 617-903-5055

Fire Safety Tips

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Call us if you experience fire damage

Fire damage is the physical damage to a property as a result of burning. The damage can be directly caused by flames or indirectly due to smoke and other substances emitted by fire such as soot.

Smoke and soot can be as damaging to your property as actual flames. This is because the smoke will create black clouds throughout the walls, ceiling, and porous materials in your property. There is also a strong odor associated with smoke that is very hard to remove from porous materials such as clothes, carpets and furniture.

In the unfortunate event your home or business experiences fire damage (flames, smoke or soot) we recommend you enlist the help of a professional to help you clean your property as thoroughly as possible. If a firefighter was called to your property the likelihood that water damage occurred is highly likely. In this event you have to make sure that the water is dried as quickly as possible to prevent the possible growth of mold. When mold grows it will spread quickly, cause possible health effects and increase the cost of remediation. For this reason edge on the side of caution and just hire a professional in the beginning.

We at SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline will ensure we get everything done right the first time so you can have your peace of mind and property back!

The Fire Tetrahedron & Why It’s Important | SERVPRO® of Allston, Brighton & Brookline

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business has any damage, SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline is ready around the clock to help you recover.

You might have read that title and wondered why on earth we’re talking about a geometric term, the tetrahedron.

Well, we’re not actually talking about geometry in today’s blog. We are actually going to discuss the fire tetrahedron.

If you think back on your childhood education, you may remember that a tetrahedron is a four-faced shape. That’s the connection, because there are essentially four “faces” to fire, or four things it can’t live without.

With Fall Weather Comes New Fire Dangers | SERVPRO® of Allston, Brighton & Brookline

11/13/2021 (Permalink)

Be mindful about fall fire safety. Always remember that SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline is the trusted leader in the restoration industry

One nice aspect of living in Boston is that we get to experience all four seasons. And fall is quickly approaching! The official start of the season is Sept. 22 this year.

Fall is a favorite season for campers, leaf-peepers and of course trick-or-treaters. There are lots of fun activities to do during autumn.

But along with the fun comes a few potential fire hazards. So grab a pumpkin spice latte, and let’s look over fire safety tips for the season.

Campfires and Fire Pits

This is the season for campfires and fire pits. But when you’re indulging, be sure to do so safely.

Knowing where and how to build a campfire is as important as knowing how to put it out. Start small with twigs and tinder and then ad larger stick and wood.

Use an extended lighter to start the fire if you have one. If not, consider buying one. Accelerants like kerosene or lighter fluid should be avoided.

Build your fire away from structures and other flammable items. And finally, extinguish your fire completely before leaving your campfire or fire pit.

Slowly douse it with a bucket of water to make sure no embers remain. A slight breeze can restart an ember and possibly cause a fire.

Fall Burning of Yard Debris

This time of year, yards are becoming full of dried leaves and many people like to burn leaves as a method of disposal. Make sure you check with your local Fire Department to obtain a burn permit prior to burning.

Never burn household trash or debris can that can have adverse effects like explosions or the release of toxic fumes.

Safety With Space Heaters

Portable space heaters are one of the most frequent causes of home fires in fall and winter. Following the proper safety precautions with space heaters is important for life and property safety.

Always keep your heater away from flammable objects. Make sure your heater has an automatic shutoff in case the heater turns over or overheats.

Plug any space heater directly into the outlet and avoid extension cords if possible.

If a fire hazard should turn from potential to reality in your home, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry and contact SERVPRO to get your property fully restored right down to the smell of smoke.

Precautions to Take to Keep Your Home Safe From Wildfires

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged by fire or any other reason, SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline is ready and able to repair any damage.

While flooding is a major concern in the greater Boston area, there is also a risk of wildfire. While the risk may be lower in Massachusetts than in other parts of the country, it is still a risk, and wildfires by their very nature can cause great damage.

There are a number of steps you can take in advance to minimize the risk of a wildfire affecting your home and property. First and foremost, it’s important to simply be more careful when it comes to fire hazards.

But defensible space is another important protocol you can implement.

Create a Barrier of Protection Around Your Home

Creating a fire break around your home is recommended by most communities and its law in a few states. State and federal agencies have coined the term “defensible space.”

This essentially creates a buffer zone around your house that removes most, if not all, of the fuel available for a wildfire. Things like dead trees, broken-off tree limbs and gutters full of debris are all examples of the fuel that makes wildfires extra dangerous around a home.

Defensible space involves removing combustibles and incorporating nonflammable elements in landscaping, which creates a barrier around your home from the flames, embers or even heat from a wildfire. This is the best way to slow down or stop a wildfire.

States like California require defensible space by law and all homeowners must comply. In Massachusetts, it’s simply recommended.

The Rising Number of Wildfires

While California is a hot spot for wildfires, they happen in other parts of the country as well. Last year, we experienced over 59,000 wildfires.

Of the 59,000 wildfires, over 10,000 occurred in California! That still leaves each state in the union an average of 1,000 wildfires per month. Here in Massachusetts, we had 1,189 wildfires in 2020.

Creating defensible space is something tangible we can do in advance a wildfire, so it’s a great place to begin when it comes to protecting your home.

If your home is damaged by fire of any sort, wild or not, SERVPRO is ready and able to repair the damage caused. Get in touch today to get the pros on your team.

With Outdoor Activities in Spring, the Risk of Fire Increases | SERVPRO® of Allston, Brighton & Brookline

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring fire and smoke damage is one of our specialties. Contact SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline to learn more.

As old man winter starts to ease its grip on Boston and with the long cold days behind us, spring is right around the corner. Spending more time outdoors is now a priority since the weather is milder. However, with the increased outdoor activity, there also comes and increased risk of fire.

Spring brings with it the increased risk of fire mainly due to the increased outdoor activity around the grill. Unfortunately, spring is responsible for the largest increase in average daily fires.. But if you are diligent, we can all work to prevent fires this spring.

The Fire Marshall Say Pay Special Attention to These Areas Around the Home

BBQing. Single-handedly, the grill is responsible for a large percentage of outdoor fires, with lack of proper cleaning being the major cause.. When you have fuel, flame and grease in close proximity, that recipe has all the ingredients for a grill fire. Food particles that fall through the grill grates and the accumulation of grease are the biggest cause of unintended grill fires. Clean the grill before each use, and replace defective or worn parts.

The fire pit. The grill gets its share of blame for accidental fires, but the fire pit is another source of unplanned outside fires. We all enjoy a nice spring evening, but temperatures can get cold after the sun goes down. The fire pit provides an opportunity to interact outside with others. These safety tips are important to remember: Don’t leave children unattended around a fire. Keep water close by. Adding debris or other materials, other than wood, to a fire pit should be avoided. This can cause “flare-ups” and embers can be carried away by gusting winds. Roasting food should be done over the embers and not the open flame.

The dryer vent and chimney. Chimneys and dryer vents are another cause of outdoor fires. Warmer weather brings fewer fires in the fireplace or woodstove. Ash, soot and creosote build up during the winter in the stove pipe, and unless it’s removed, the risk of fire increases. Professional chimney sweeps are well worth the investment. It’s hard and dirty work. Clogged dryer vents are another opportunity for fire damage. The leading reason for fires in a clothes dryer is clogged lint in the dryer vent. Don’t become a statistic; keep dryer vents cleared of excess lint.

Has your home or business recently suffered fire or smoke damage? Our tech’s will be there fast and have it cleaned up quick. We’re available ²⁴⁄₇ for emergency situations. Call today and experience the SERVPRO difference.

617-903-5055

Keep the Holidays Fire Free

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Keep fire safety in mind during the Holidays

In our opinion the final months of the year are a very joyous time of year! Flashing lights light up the night. Everyone is scrambling to get home for the holidays. With the holidays its is also reported that the number of home fires increase dramatically. SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline wants to ensure this time of year remains joyous for you and your family. Below are simple tips to help prevent a fire.

These simple easy tips can prevent a fire from starting within your house this Christmas!

• If you have a Christmas Tree, always place your tree away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights, and keep the tree base filled with water to avoid a dry out.
• Make sure all your indoor and outdoor Christmas lights have been tested in a lab by the UL or ETL/ITSNA for safety, and throw out any damaged lights that are broken.
• Any lights you use outdoors must be labeled suitable for exterior placement, and be sure to plug them into a ground-fault circuit interrupter protected receptacle.
• Keep all your holiday candles away from your Christmas tree
• Bedtime means lights off! ­ Don’t forget to turn your Christmas tree lights off each night.
• Fresh trees are less likely to catch fire, so look for a tree with vibrant green needles that are hard to pluck and don’t break easily from its branches. The tree shouldn’t be shedding its needles readily

After your tree starts to drop needles and some may turn brown it is time to say your last goodbye and throw it outside.  These simple and easy facts can really be a lifesaver come the holidays. If there ever is a problem in your home call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline. 

Office: 617.903.5055

Fire Restoration Tips

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Know what to do if you ever experience a fire in your home or business.

Fire damage restoration is complicated for those who do not deal with it on a consistent basis. Many times we get calls to ask for advice on how to clean up after fire. Below we have listed tips that can help most fire cleanup situations.

Please keep in mind that fire damage restoration takes time and skill. See below and realistically consider whether you want to try these ideas on your own or enlist the help of a restoration specialist like SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline, where we will guarantee our work!

1. Remove smoke damage

Wash walls one small area at a time. Work from floor up to prevent streaking. Wash the ceiling last. Wipe down and dry the areas that got wet to prevent possible growth of mold and mildew. You can do this with small solution of household bleach and water. If drywall and insulation is soaked your best option is to contact a professional to ensure the materials are fully dried.

SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline 617-903-5055 will help

2. Limit activity and movement

Once you are cleared to reenter your home by first responders do your best to work on one area at a time to prevent spreading soot into other areas. The worst thing you can do is give yourself more work in what is already considered a very laborious process. Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet in high traffic areas.

3. Avoid smearing soot into fabrics

Soot from smoke damage is greasy so ensure you dust it off to prevent rubbing it your fabrics and upholstery. Fabrics and upholstery are very porous and will likely absorb the smoke odor. You may need to wash the fabrics multiple times in order to fully get rid of the smoke odor. Make sure that your hands and cleaning equipment is clean so you do not add more soot to the material.

4. Thoroughly Dry Everything!

This will be the most important yet tedious step. You will need to determine whether or not you should restore (dry) or replace items that were affected by the water (ie. carpet, flooring, insulation and more). It takes on average about 48hrs for a wet area to promote the growth and spread of mold. Your home will most likely be wet if a fire department put out the fire. Before repainting and putting things back to its original place make sure your walls, insulation, ceiling, furniture and all other porous materials are completely dry. You can rent commercial grade fans and open windows. The key is to know when everything is dry! Do not stress yourself and make the mistake of turning the fans off too soon. Instead, call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline. We have the equipment that will let us know what areas need to be dried and when drying has been completed.

5. Repaint & Restore

Once the walls are thoroughly cleaned and dry you can repaint a fresh coat of paint on the walls and ceiling. Before painting it is very important that the walls and ceiling is thoroughly dried so there are no streaks. You are now ready to put furniture back in its original space.

Fires are no joke and the damage they leave behind much less. Our goal here at SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline is to be able to make the restoration process as seamless as possible. That way you can work on getting the rest of your life back in order pre-fire. Let us help 617-903-5055

Fire Fire Fire

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Electrical Fire caused this ceiling to burn. There was smoke and soot damage as well.

Fire damage is the physical damage to a property as a result of burning. The damage can be directly caused by flames or indirectly due to smoke and other substances emitted by fire such as soot.

Smoke and soot can be as damaging to your property as actual flames. This is because the smoke will create black clouds throughout the walls, ceiling, and porous materials in your property. There is also a strong odor associated with smoke that is very hard to remove from porous materials such as clothes, carpets and furniture.

In the unfortunate event your home or business experiences fire damage (flames, smoke or soot) we recommend you enlist the help of a professional to help you clean your property as thoroughly as possible. If a firefighter was called to your property the likelihood that water damage occurred is highly likely. In this event you have to make sure that the water is dried as quickly as possible to prevent the possible growth of mold. When mold grows it will spread quickly, cause possible health effects and increase the cost of remediation. For this reason edge on the side of caution and just hire a professional in the beginning.

We at SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline will ensure we get everything done right the first time so you can have your peace of mind and property back!

Practicing Fire Safety This Holiday Season | SERVPRO® of Allston, Brighton & Brookline

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure your fire risk is low during the holidays. If you experience any damage, SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont will be here to help.

The holiday season always arrives rapidly, and as we get our homes and ourselves ready to celebrate, it is still important to keep the importance of fire safety in focus. Winter is the peak of fires in the home according to the Red Cross, partially because of the risky activities that occur primarily in the wintertime.

Cooking is always a concern, but winter also brings about the concerns of heating and decoration that are not present at other times of the year. Do not give fires the opportunity to spark by focusing on fire safety as you celebrate the best of winter.

Wintertime Tips for Fire Prevention

Keep safe when cooking. The top cause of house fires is cooking at any time of year, but more people tend to prepare large meals and increase the frequency of their baking when it is cold outside. It is wise to practice fire safety each time you cook, keeping a fire extinguisher nearby and keeping flammable items at least three feet from the stove. Make sure children and pets are not allowed near open flames in the kitchen as well.

Heat the house with proper precautions. Many people make use of space heaters and fireplaces to supplement their home’s heating system, but it is important that you always use these tools with caution. Space heaters should always cut off if they get too hot or tip over, and should never be used on carpet or near flammable items. If you use a fireplace, be sure to get your chimney inspected every year and never allow a fire to burn unattended.

Decorate with care. The decorations commonly associated with Christmas, such as trees and lights, present an electrical hazard if they are not installed correctly. Christmas tree fires due to electricity are extremely common, often as a result of the lights being plugged in improperly. Make sure to not overload outlets or power cables, and never use decorations with frayed wiring.

If you have damage due to a house fire, you can depend on us to help. Contact us 24 hours a day to report damage and receive a quick response from our certified restoration technicians. Get in touch today 617-903-5055.

Keep Your Holidays Joyous

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Stay safe by following fire safety guidelines during the Holidays

In our opinion the final months of the year is a very joyus time of year! Flashing lights light up the night. Everyone is scrambling to get home for the holidays. With the holidays it is also reported that the number of home fires increase dramatically. SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline wants to ensure this of year remains joyus for you and your family. Below are simply tips to help prevent a fire.

These simple easy tips can prevent a fire from starting within your house this Christmas!

• If you have a Christmas Tree, always place your tree away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights, and keep the tree base filled with water to avoid a dry out.
• Make sure all your indoor and outdoor Christmas lights have been tested in a lab by the UL or ETL/ITSNA for safety, and throw out any damaged lights that are broken.
• Any lights you use outdoors must be labeled suitable for exterior placement, and be sure to plug them into a ground-fault circuit interrupter protected receptacle.
• Keep all your holiday candles away from your Christmas tree
• Bedtime means lights off! ­ Don’t forget to turn your Christmas tree lights off each night.
• Fresh trees are less likely to catch fire, so look for a tree with vibrant green needles that are hard to pluck and don’t break easily from its branches. The tree shouldn’t be shedding its needles readily

After your tree starts to drop needles and some may turn brown it is time to say your last goodbye and throw it outside.  These simple and easy facts can really be a lifesaver come the holidays. If there ever is a problem in your home call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline. 

Office: 617.903.5055

Smoke & Soot - How to handle

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot can cause a lot of damage to you home or business

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 Allston, Brighton & Brookline 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 – (617) 903-5055

Most Common Causes of Fire in the Workplace

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

Know what to do during work place fire

Electrical Fires

Over 25% of all fires are linked to a malfunction of either a piece of electrical equipment, wiring, or both. Electricity is a common source of ignition for major fires. One way to avoid problems with electrical fires is to establish an electrical safety program.

All employees should be thoroughly familiar with the safety procedures for their particular jobs. To maximize his or her own safety, an employee should always use tools and equipment properly. Extension cords must be inspected before use, and those found questionable, removed from service and properly tagged. Damage or inadequate maintenance can cause equipment to deteriorate, resulting in unsafe conditions.

Flammable and Combustible Materials

There are thousands of chemicals in use in the modern American workplace. One of the most prevalent dangers of these chemicals is their flammability or combustibility. Improper handling of flammable materials brings a great risk of fire. When a flammable liquid is spilled, vapors begin to form immediately. It is the vapors that will ignite, and which pose the greater danger.

Flammable liquid spill cleanup should begin immediately. Vapors will continue to build until the liquid is removed, and they can be ignited by a variety of sources in the average workplace. The best way to avoid fire caused by these materials is to follow all OSHA guidelines when dealing with flammables.

Human Error

The most common reason for a sprinkler system failure is human error. Often times the water supply was turned off at the time of the fire. The success of fire prevention strategies depends primarily on pre-planning, preparation, equipment quality, and the readiness of personnel. Employees and loss prevention practitioners must be knowledgeable about the proper use of extinguishers. If the wrong extinguisher is used, a fire may become more serious.

General Negligence

Negligence is another common cause of fire in the workplace. It’s slightly different from fires caused by human error. Negligence occurs when an employee does not follow established procedures and knowingly undertakes an activity that is a potential fire hazard.

Fire caused by negligence can be the result of:

• Hot surfaces too close to heating equipment
• Open flame that’s not properly located or protected
• Not following smoking restrictions or careless disposal of butts, ashes, and matches

Good common sense, self awareness, and close adherence to policy are a great way to avoid fires caused by general negligence. Posting fire safety signs in common areas is another way to keep fire safety at top of mind.

 Arson

The premise behind arson prevention, like other prevention programs, is to address the opportunity to commit the crime. Arsonists, like other criminals, typically prefer to start fires in locations that are secluded or hidden. Prevention programs often suggest improving the surveillance in these areas by lighting the area, removing visual obstructions to natural observation, and moving the targets such as dumpsters.

If your company, please call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline (617) 903-5055 to assist you with the cleanup.

Ways to prevent fires in your home

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Protect yourself and your loved ones

A house can easily catch fire from the misuse of appliances to smoking in bedrooms. You can take measures to avoid fire in your home and ensure the safety of your family. Below are some of the most common causes of household fires, and some tips to take precautions.

Cooking Equipment

Pots and pans can overheat and cause a fire very easily if the person cooking gets distracted and leaves cooking unattended. Always stay in the room, or ask someone to watch your food, when cooking on hotplates.

Heating

Keep portable heaters at least 5’ away from anything that could easily catch fire such as furniture, curtains, laundry, clothes and even you. If you have a furnace, get it inspected once a year to make sure it is working to safety standards.

Smoking in bedrooms

Bedrooms are best to be kept off limits for smoking. A cigarette that is not put out properly can cause a flame, as the butt may stay alit for a few hours. It could burst into flames if it came into contact with flammable materials, such as furniture. Did you know that fires started in the bedroom or lounge make up 73% of all house fire fatalities?

Electrical Equipment

An electrical appliance, such as a toaster can start a fire if it is faulty or has a frayed cord. A power point that is overloaded with double adapter plugs can cause a fire from an overuse of electricity. A power point extension cord can also be a fire hazard if not used appropriately. Double check the appliances and power points in your home.

Candles

Candles look and smell pretty, but if left unattended they can cause a room to easily burst into flames. Keep candles away from any obviously flammable items such as books and tissue boxes. Always blow a candle out before leaving a room. Did you know that in Perth last year 34 house fires started as a result of candles?

Curious Children

Kids can cause a fire out of curiosity, to see what would happen if they set fire to an object. Keep any matches or lighters out of reach of children, to avoid any curiosity turned disaster. Install a smoke alarm in your child’s room and practice a home escape plan with your children and family in case there was a fire. Inform your kids the importance of knowing their address knowing their address and if they needed to, call 911.

Faulty Wiring

Homes with inadequate wiring can cause fires from electrical hazards. Some signs to see if you’ve bad wiring are: 1) Lights dim if you use another appliance; 2) For an appliance to work, you have to disconnect another; 3) Fuses blow or trip the circuit frequently. Have a licensed electrician come and inspect your house, or contact your landlord if you have any of the above occurrences.

Barbeques

Barbeques are great for an outdoor meal, but should always be used away from the home, tablecloths or any plants and tree branches. Keep BBQs regularly maintained and cleaned with soapy water and clean any removable parts. Check the gas bottle for any leaks before you use it each time.

Flammable Liquids

If you have any flammable liquids in the home or garage such as petrol, kerosene or ethylated spirits, keep them away from heat sources and check the label before storing. Be careful when pouring these liquids.

Lighting

Lamp shades and light fittings can build up heat if they are very close to light globes. Check around the house to make sure. Lamp bases can become a hazard if they are able to be knocked over easily, and so should be removed if they are. Check that down lights is insulated from wood paneling or ceiling timbers.

The above tips are a good guide to avoiding a fire in your home. If you do have a fire and need assistance with the cleanup, please call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline (617) 903-5055

Protect against a Fire

7/5/2020 (Permalink)

Be safe when handling fire

The following are things you can do to protect yourself, your family, and your property in the event of a Fire:

SMOKE ALARMS AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS

Install smoke alarms. Properly working smoke alarms decrease your chances of dying in a fire by half.

Place smoke alarms on every level of your residence, including the basement.

Install a working carbon monoxide detector in the common area of the bedrooms.

Test and clean smoke alarms once a month and replace batteries at least once a year. Replace smoke alarms once every 10 years.

COOKING SAFETY

Never leave cooking unattended.

Always wear short or tight-fitting sleeves when you cook.

Keep towels, pot holders and curtains away from flames

Never use the range or oven to heat your home.

ESCAPING THE FIRE

Have an escape plan. Review escape routes with your family.

Make sure windows are not nailed or painted shut.

Teach family members to stay low to the floor, where the air is safer, when escaping from a fire.

In high-rise, never lock fire exits or doorways, halls or stairways. Never prop stairway or other fire doors open.

HEATING SOURCE

Place space heaters at least three feet away from flammable/combustible materials.

Use only the type of fuel designated for your space heater.

MATCHES/LIGHTERS AND SMOKING

Keep matches/lighters away from children.

Never smoke in bed or when drowsy or medicated.

If you must smoke, do it responsibly.

ELECTRICAL WIRING

Inspect extension cords for frayed or exposed wires or loose plugs

Make sure outlets have cover plates and no exposed wiring.

Make sure wiring does not run under rugs, over nails, or across high traffic areas.

Do not overload extension cords or outlets.

If you do have a fire, please call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline (617) 903-5055 to assist you in the cleanup

Furnace Puff Back

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

Know what to do if this happens to you!

If your home has an oil burning furnace, there are several dangers to be aware of. Any furnace can experience a puff back, while puff backs are more common with oil systems, a furnace puff back can also occur with forced air, gas and hot water heating systems. A puff back in a furnace is a volatile explosion that occurs inside your furnace. The result of this explosion is fire and smoke being spewed out from your furnace. This fire, smoke and soot will damage your homes building materials and contents. This explosion will not be lethal, but can cause thousands of dollars in costly repairs and damage restoration, and can also cause health problems for you and your family. The explosions are caused by a buildup of vapor inside your furnace. This build up can occur with furnaces which have not been maintained properly. Parts sometimes need to be replaced, and bi yearly cleaning of your furnace and heating system will help prevent puff backs. Conducting a yearly exam of your heating system or having a professional check your heating system yearly will often times fully prevent a puff back from ever occurring.

 If you have experience a puff back avoids doing the following: Try to clean or wash away soot residue yourself. This soot and smoke residue needs special cleaning methods, as it spreads easily. Soot stains can also set very quickly, making soot damage especially trick to clean if you should do it wrong. Soot is black carbon, and black carbon will stain extremely quickly when mixed with water and common household liquid cleaners. Should you attempt to remove the soot yourself and end up staining something with soot in your home, a professional cleaner may be required to remove the stain. Should you have soot damage, you should leave it to a professional to clean. SERVPRO professionals trained in soot damage have special cleaners and cleaning methods to use to remove your soot and soot damage. Use furniture or walk on carpeting affected by the fire or puff back. Do not use furniture that has been exposed to heat, soot or smoke. You can cause further damage to your furniture, until it is professionally cleaned and restored. Do not turn on any electronics such as computer, stereo's, and TV's until you have had them checked for soot damaged. Computers can be especially vulnerable and ruined as soon as they are turned on if soot has made its way inside them. This soot also contains a corrosive element, which will damage home's building materials, and contents such as your electronics, furniture, clothing and more. Not only can this soot damage your property, it can also affect the health of your loved ones by causing respiratory problems. This soot will often have a very terrible odor that will swiftly travel throughout the home, and will need to be cleaned and deodorized in order to remove the offensive odor from your home. If the soot and smoke travels through your home's duct work, it will need to be cleaned and deodorized as well. You also need to have a professional check your furnace following a puff back, to avoid further incidents. You may have a faulty part or an oil burner that may need replacing. If the problem is ignored, it can cause repeated and long lasting effects to your home. Should you have experienced a furnace puff back, you should SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline (617) 903-5055 to help with the clean up.

Extension Cord Causes Fire

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

Do not overload your extension cord!

Electrical fires are extremely scary and cannot be simply put out with water. Our crew was called to a Dorchester, MA home because a fire was caused by a lamp (see picture). There was extensive damage to the walls, ceiling and their personal belongings. According to the residents the lamp was left on over night. after further investigation it was uncovered that not only was the lamp connected to an overloaded extension cord but it also had a light bulb with WATTS that exceeded what was recommended by the lamp. 

What can you do?

To prevent something like this from happening to your home - First you must ensure the lamp and light bulb are compatible. Then if you can avoid using an extension cord, do so. Extension cord overload have been a leading cause of fire as well. You need to be cautious of how you are using your extension cords because the more you plug in the higher the chances of a spark. Finally, when you are not using a lamp or any electrical accessory unplug it. This will not only prevent a potential fire but it will also help you save on your electrical bill. the reason being is that even though you physically do not have the lamp, radio, etc. on because it is plugged to an outlet there is active electrical currents going through. 

In the unfortunate event there is a fire caused by electrical equipment call 911 immediately. Do not try to put out the fire with water as you can risk electrocution. Once fire is put out call us and your insurance company so we can help make the damage look "Like it never even happened." 

Call SERVPRO Allston, Brighton & Brookline for more information 617-903-5055!

Fire Damage Restoration Tips

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

Family room in Boston, MA home after a fire

Fire damage restoration is complicated for those who do not deal with it on a consistent basis. Many times we get calls to ask for advice on how to clean up after fire. Below we have listed tips that can help most fire cleanup situations.

Please keep in mind that fire damage restoration takes time and skill. See below and realistically consider whether you want to try these ideas on your own or enlist the help of a restoration specialist like SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline, where we will guarantee our work!

1. Remove smoke damage

Wash walls one small area at a time. Work from floor up to prevent streaking. Wash the ceiling last. Wipe down and dry the areas that got wet to prevent possible growth of mold and mildew. You can do this with small solution of household bleach and water. If drywall and insulation is soaked your best option is to contact a professional to ensure the materials are fully dried.

SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline 617-903-5055 will help

2. Limit activity and movement

Once you are cleared to reenter your home by first responders do your best to work on one area at a time to prevent spreading soot into other areas. The worst thing you can do is give yourself more work in what is already considered a very laborious process. Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet in high traffic areas.

3. Avoid smearing soot into fabrics

Soot from smoke damage is greasy so ensure you dust it off to prevent rubbing it your fabrics and upholstery. Fabrics and upholstery are very porous and will likely absorb the smoke odor. You may need to wash the fabrics multiple times in order to fully get rid of the smoke odor. Make sure that your hands and cleaning equipment is clean so you do not add more soot to the material.

4. Thoroughly Dry Everything!

This will be the most important yet tedious step. You will need to determine whether or not you should restore (dry) or replace items that were affected by the water (ie. carpet, flooring, insulation and more). It takes on average about 48hrs for a wet area to promote the growth and spread of mold. Your home will most likely be wet if a fire department put out the fire. Before repainting and putting things back to its original place make sure your walls, insulation, ceiling, furniture and all other porous materials are completely dry. You can rent commercial grade fans and open windows. The key is to know when everything is dry! Do not stress yourself and make the mistake of turning the fans off too soon. Instead, call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline. We have the equipment that will let us know what areas need to be dried and when drying has been completed.

5. Repaint & Restore

Once the walls are thoroughly cleaned and dry you can repaint a fresh coat of paint on the walls and ceiling. Before painting it is very important that the walls and ceiling is thoroughly dried so there are no streaks. You are now ready to put furniture back in its original space.

Fires are no joke and the damage they leave behind much less. Our goal here at SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline is to be able to make the restoration process as seamless as possible. That way you can work on getting the rest of your life back in order pre-fire. Let us help 617-903-5055

Unwanted Fires and its affect on your property

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

Home in Brighton, MA experiences fire damage

Fire damage is the physical damage to a property as a result of burning. The damage can be directly caused by flames or indirectly due to smoke and other substances emitted by fire such as soot. Smoke and soot can be as damaging to your property as actual flames. This is because the smoke will create black clouds throughout the walls, ceiling, and porous materials in your property. There is also a strong odor associated with smoke that is very hard to remove from porous materials such as clothes, carpets and furniture. In the unfortunate event your home or business experiences fire damage (flames, smoke or soot) we recommend you enlist the help of a professional to help you clean your property as thoroughly as possible. If a firefighter was called to your property the likelihood that water damage occurred is highly likely. In this event you have to make sure that the water is dried as quickly as possible to prevent the possible growth of mold. When mold grows it will spread quickly, cause possible health issues and increase the cost of remediation. For this reason edge on the side of caution and just hire a professional in the beginning. We at SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline will ensure we get everything done right the first time so you can have your peace of mind and property back!

Happy Holidays – Lets Prevent Fires

12/13/2019 (Permalink)

Holiday lights light up this public walk way

In our opinion the final months of the year is a very joyus time of year! Flashing lights light up the night. Everyone is scrambling to get home for the holidays. With the holidays its is also reported that the number of home fires increase dramatically. SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline wants to ensure this of year remains joyus for you and your family. Below are simply tips to help prevent a fire.

These simple easy tips can prevent a fire from starting within your house this Christmas!

• If you have a Christmas Tree, always place your tree away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights, and keep the tree base filled with water to avoid a dry out.
• Make sure all your indoor and outdoor Christmas lights have been tested in a lab by the UL or ETL/ITSNA for safety, and throw out any damaged lights that are broken.
• Any lights you use outdoors must be labeled suitable for exterior placement, and be sure to plug them into a ground-fault circuit interrupter protected receptacle.
• Keep all your holiday candles away from your Christmas tree
• Bedtime means lights off! ­ Don’t forget to turn your Christmas tree lights off each night.
• Fresh trees are less likely to catch fire, so look for a tree with vibrant green needles that are hard to pluck and don’t break easily from its branches. The tree shouldn’t be shedding its needles readily

After your tree starts to drop needles and some may turn brown it is time to say your last goodbye and throw it outside.  These simple and easy facts can really be a lifesaver come the holidays. If there ever is a problem in your home call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline. 

Office: 617.903.5055

Don’t let your summer plans go up in flames! Simple ways to prevent a fire

7/5/2019 (Permalink)

Fire in Brookline, MA home caused by electrical equipment

Summer time is here and the last thing you want to deal with is a house fire! Some of the most common causes of fire damage are:

1. Cooking equipment
2. Careless smoking
3. Electrical equipment
4. Lawn Mowers
5. Barbecues
6. Flammable liquids

Many cooking fires are caused by grease or oil that ignites while unattended. A lot of grill fires are caused by mishandled propane gas. Smoking indoor or outdoor and not properly putting out the bud can spark a fire. Also lawn mowers can build up flammable vapors and when combined with heat source go up in flames in your garage. Short circuits and electrical malfunctions can also cause a fire to start in a home.

The good news is that all of these causes of fire can be prevented. When cooking for large group have a designated cook who will watch over the food on the stove or grill until it has cooked and then properly shuts the stove or grill. Always grill outdoors and away from any structures.  Have baking soda or a bucket of sand nearby in case you need to put out a fire. NEVER add water to grease fire. Try to smoke outdoors when you can, ensure the bud is completely put out by dipping in water or a bucket of sand.  Check the batteries on your smoke detectors regularly. Also, keep flammables away from fire sources. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby!

Accidents happen, in the unfortunate event that there is a fire call 911 immediately and get to a safe location!  

When the fire has been put out assess the damages to determine if you need to put in a claim with your property insurance carrier. Once complete begin the remediation process by reaching out to a professional like us! Although we cannot get what was lost back - Our job is to make it look like the fire never happened.

#Boston #SERVPRO #Allston #Brighton #Brookline #Fire #Homefire #electricalequipment

#firesafety #remediation #reconstruction

Don't Overload Your Outlets!

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

MA home experienced fire due to overloading outlet

Don't add more than what your outlet can handle!

Overloaded circuits is one of the leading cause of fires in homes. It can be as simple as an overloaded outlet! There is too much energy which the conductor does not have the capacity to disperse. The energy build up converts to heat. The heat build up with the static from the electricity cause fire to ignite. 

If a fire starts in your home due to an overloaded circuit do not try to handle the fire on your own as you can risk electrocution. Instead, call 911 and get yourself and your family to a safe place. Once the fire has been put out call your insurance company and a remediation company like us to help get your home back to pre loss condition.

We are always here to help in the event of a fire in your home or commercial space. We offer local support and expertise 24/7 to ensure you are taken care of! Give SERVPRO Allston Brighton, & Brookline a call at 617-903-5055.

 Learn more 

Decrease Chances of a Fire and Your Electric Bill

5/17/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Dorchester, MA home caused by a lamp

Electrical fires are extremely scary and cannot be simply put out with water. Our crew was called to a Dorchester, MA home because a fire was caused by a lamp (see picture). there was extensive damage to the walls, ceiling and their personal belongings. According to the residents the lamp was left on over night. after further investigation it was uncovered that not only was the lamp connected to an overloaded extension cord but it also had a light bulb with WATTS that exceeded what was recommended by the lamp. 

What can you do?

To prevent something like this from happening to your home - First you must ensure the lamp and light bulb are compatible. Then if you can avoid using an extension cord, do so. Extension cord overload have been a leading cause of fire as well. You need to be cautious of how you are using your extension cords because the more you plug in the higher the chances of a spark. Finally, when you are not using a lamp or any electrical accessory unplug it. This will not only prevent a potential fire but it will also help you save on your electrical bill. the reason being is that even though you physically do not have the lamp, radio, etc. on because it is plugged to an outlet there is active electrical currents going through. 

In the unfortunate event there is a fire caused by electrical equipment call 911 immediately. Do not try to put out the fire with water as you can risk electrocution. Once fire is put out call us and your insurance company so we can help make the damage look "Like it never even happened." 

Call SERVPRO Allston, Brighton & Brookline for more information 617-903-5055!

#fire #electricity #SERVPRO #Allston #Brighton #Brookline #lamps #extensioncord

Christmas tree safety tips to keep your home safe over the holiday

12/22/2018 (Permalink)

Happy Holidays to You & Yours!

Christmas tree could be found throughout your house. 

These simple easy tips can prevent a fire from starting within your house this christmas!

• Always place your tree away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights, and keep the tree base filled with water to avoid a dry out.
• Make sure all your indoor and outdoor Christmas lights have been tested in a lab by the UL or ETL/ITSNA for safety, and throw out any damaged lights that are broken.
• Any lights you use outdoors must be labeled suitable for exterior placement, and be sure to plug them into a ground-fault circuit interrupter protected receptacle.
• Keep all your holiday candles away from your Christmas tree
• Bedtime means lights off! ­ Don’t forget to turn your Christmas tree lights off each night.
• Fresh trees are less likely to catch fire, so look for a tree with vibrant green needles that are hard to pluck and don’t break easily from its branches. The tree shouldn’t be shedding its needles readily

After your tree starts to drop needles and some may turn brown it is time to say your last goodbye and throw it outside.  These simple and easy facts can really be a lifesaver come the holidays. If there ever is a problem in your home call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline. 

Office: 617.903.5055