If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (484) 841-6669

To have the optimal experience while using this site, you will need to update your browser. You may want to try one of the following alternatives:

Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts

5 Things To Do After A House Fire

8/1/2023 (Permalink)

A fire occurring in your house can be both surprising, overwhelming, and confusing. One can easily feel confused about what it is that they should do after going through such an experience. However, reading up and learning about what it is that you can do after a house fire can make you better equipped with dealing with such a situation. So, in order to help you protect yourself and your property, here are 5 things that you can do after a house fire.

Call An Emergency Helpline

Of course, the first step in any emergency situation is to call an emergency helpline. However, you must first ensure that everyone within your house is outside first. The first responders will arrive at your home and will focus their attention on the safety of you and others who live in your house. After all of the house occupants' are out of danger, they will then focus their energy on saving the structural integrity of your house. 

Take Some Time 

While the first respondents are working on dousing the flames, make sure to take time for yourself so that you are able to process the situation. Try to remind yourself and those who surround you that everything will be okay as spiraling will only make you feel more stressed and won't help the process go any faster. Be sure to take everything one step at a time so that you do not overwhelm yourself. 

Contact Your Insurance Agency 

After you have collected your thoughts, contact your insurance agency and ask for their timeline on securing your property, which includes the removal of any standing water as well as covering the doors and windows of your house. The entire process depends on the amount of damage your house has taken, both from the fire and the dousing. Your insurance will help in starting this process for you and will then authorize their company for restoration to secure your property.

Find A Safe Place

As your house, despite the ventilation holes, will now be filled with chemicals, which lowers the air quality drastically, to prevent any health issues, you must then find a safe place to stay for the time being. In fact, the restoration and recovery process can take several months to finish, which is why most people end up residing in a relative's house rather than a hotel. So, be sure to be monetarily prepared. 

Secure Your House 

If you are in a situation where the fire department tells you that your house is safe to live in, you will still have to take certain precautions, such as boarding up your house. This will prevent any outside impurities from entering your house. 

All in all, knowing the steps that you have to take after a house fire will not only help you but will also make you feel more at peace. So, if you ever do go through something like this, we hope that you do not, you will not feel confused rather you will, by default, go into autopilot and start taking the required steps. 

SERVPRO Addresses All Fire Damage

9/5/2022 (Permalink)

We are here to help 24-7

SERVPRO understands the need for speed, so we’re ready to respond to your call 24/7.

We’ll have a technician on-site to perform a thorough assessment of your damage within four hours of your original call and we’ll have a customized plan of action specific to your property within eight hours when we supply a complete verbal briefing.


We’ll even provide a thorough inventory of all of your damaged surfaces and belongings to help expedite the process of filing your insurance claim.

We understand how emotional this time can be for you and we’re prepared to do everything we can to make it easier on you and ultimately help you to get the reimbursement you deserve.


Of course, our goal with any property is to make it “Like it never even happened” and we’ll always proceed with that in mind.

Our technicians will put their training and expertise to use to make sure that the restoration process is handled as safely as possible in the shortest amount of time so that you can put the pain behind you and let the healing begin.


The Professional Approach To Fire Restoration


Dealing with the aftermath of a fire can be overwhelming, which is why it is so important to have professionals that you can depend on.

At SERVPRO, we understand how difficult this time can be and we have the training and equipment to handle the job efficiently and safely, so you never have to go through the restoration process alone.


Our quick and thorough process begins by responding faster to any disaster. Once we have assessed your damage and drawn up your personalized comprehensive plan of action, we’ll provide you with a detailed explanation of every step that we’ll be taking in the restoration process so that you always understand exactly what’s happening.

We’ll then complete pre-testing of all surfaces and items so we can determine exactly what is able to be restored and what must be discarded.

How to Escape a House Fire

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

*Have an escape plan and practice it.  Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do in case of a fire.  Your plan should identify all available exits from each room and routes that lead from the room to a safe, open air space.  Designate a meeting place away from your house, such as a neighbors yard.  Practice your plan every few months, including at night, which is when fires are most deadly since it's more difficult to find a safe exit.

*Stay low and crawl to an exit to avoid smoke inhalation

*Feel doorknobs to see if they're hot.  Never open a door if the doorknob feels hot.  That means there's most likely a fire behind it, and opening the door will put you in danger and fuel the fire with oxygen

*Don't hide.  Even if you are scared, it's important to never hide under a bed, in a closet, or anywhere else that would make it hard for emergency responders to find you.  Try not to panic, and do your best to remain calm and make your way to the nearest way out of your house.

How to Use Fire Extinguishers in Chadds Ford

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County hopes you never experience the devastation that comes with fire damage. However, in the event that disaster strikes, be aware that our IICRC certified technicians are qualified in all aspects of cleaning up the damage left by smoke and fire in your business or residence in Chadds Ford.

Fire extinguishers may help prevent fire damage or smoke damage, but only if you know how to use them.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants to share these tips from FEMA. You can try to fight a small fire only if:

You have alerted others in the building that there is a fire
Someone has called the fire department
You are physically able to use a fire extinguisher
The fire is small and contained (like a wastebasket)
You are safe from the fire’s smoke
You have a clear escape route

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher:

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County suggests you remember PASS:
Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism
Aim at the base of the fire
Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly
Sweep the nozzle side to side

Fire Extinguishers

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers help save lives! Fire extinguishers help save lives!

Did you know there are different types of fire extinguishers used for different types of fires? It is important to know the different types of fires and extinguishers when taking measures to protect your loved ones.

Fires are classified according to the type of fuel that is burning…

Class A Fire – wood, paper, cloth, trash and, plastics. Class A fires typically produce ash when burning.  

Class B Fire – Flammable liquids: gasoline, oil, grease, acetone. Class B fires typically involve materials that boil or bubble.

Class C Fire – Electrical fires. Class C fires typically deal with electrical current.

Class D Fire – Metals such as potassium, sodium, aluminum and, magnesium. It takes special extinguishing agents like Metal-X and foam to fight Class D fires.

Fire extinguishers will list what class of fire it should be used for, as well as, have pictograms on them to help distinguish its intended use.

Air-Pressurized Water Extinguisher (APW) – These fire extinguishers are silver in color and are designed for Class A fires. They are partially filled with water and then with pressurized air. DO NOT use these extinguishers to attempt to extinguish flammable liquid fires or electrical fires as water may spread a flammable liquid fire and may cause electrocution while trying to extinguish an electrical fire.

Carbon Dioxide Extinguisher (CO2) – These fire extinguishers are red in color and are filled with non-flammable carbon dioxide gas under extreme pressure. It will have a hard horn and will not have a pressure gauge. CO2 extinguishers are designed for Class B and C fires only as they are made to displace oxygen and may not displace enough of it to put out a Class A fire.

Dry Chemical Extinguishers (DC) – These fire extinguishers come in different types and may be labeled with “ABC” or “BC”. These labels are designed to establish which types of fires can be put out with the specific extinguisher. They are filled with a fine yellow powder and pressurized with nitrogen. When used properly, the dust will separate the fuel from the oxygen in the air to put out the fire.

Call Us Today

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants residents and business owners to know that we have the training and state-of-the-art equipment to respond to any fire damage emergency. We will clean and restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Call (484) 841-6669

What You Can Do with Leaves Instead of Burning Them!

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

There are so many wonderful and safe options!

Despite it being illegal in most states, many people burn their leaves. But it is a serious fire and health hazard that you should definitely avoid! Here’s a list of fun things you can do with your leaves instead:

  • Jump in them! The classic fall activity for children, adults, and pets alike.
  • Compost! Leaves are a great addition to your compost pile.
  • Press them and create beautiful artwork! Choose leaves that aren’t yet spotty and bumpy and sandwich them between newspaper or waxed paper. Then, lay your heaviest books on top for about two weeks, or until the leaves are fully dry.
  • Take photos with family! Before you rake away the leaves, use them as a wonderful background for some fall pictures.
  • Make a wreath! A seasonal wreath is always very inviting and festive. You can use leaves, dried twigs, and even add gourds, pine cones, or acorns!
  • Use them as mulch! Leaves make a great protective cover and insulation for perennials and root crops that stay in the ground over the winter. You can also shred them with a mulching lawnmower or toss them into a shredder so that the finely cut leaves decompose faster and become a part of the soil.
  • Make a scarecrow! It’s an excellent tool to scare birds away from your garden or as a fall decoration. Simply use the leaves to stuff old clothes.

All of these options are much safer than burning leaves! And don’t pose any fire risk. Get creative and have fun this fall!

But if you have any fire damage on your property, give Danielle a call at 610-506-8919, and SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester can help you clean up and restore!

Make Sure Your Cozy Candles Don’t Cause Dangerous Fires

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Be cozy and safe this fall! Be cozy and safe this fall!

The weather is getting colder and we are all decorating for Halloween in the Southern Delaware County and West Chester areas! As you put out your pumpkins and cozy blankets, you will probably also be tempted to light a candle and enjoy its warming glow. But it is so important to recognize that candles can cause fires, so use caution!

How to prevent candle fires:

  • Make sure to place your candles on stable furniture.
  • Be sure candles are placed out of reach of children and pets.
  • Never fall asleep with a candle burning!
  • Make sure wicks are trimmed to ¼ inches before lighting.
  • Put out candle when leaving a room.
  • Stop burning a candle when it reaches within two inches of its holder.
  • Keep candles at a safe distance from holiday décor, books, curtains, blinds, flammable liquids, clothing, bedding, and lampshades.
  • Be careful of your hair when near an open flame.
  • Never use candles near oxygen sources, such as compressed air tanks.

If you do experience a fire, call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester! We can clean up and restore your home “Like it never even happened.” Call (484) 841-6669 and we will help you through this difficult situation.

Preventing Electrical Fires

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

Electrical fires can be extremely detrimental to your business. Damages can occur from both the fire and the water that is used during firefighting efforts.  As a business owner, it is important to know the steps to take to prevent electrical fires in your office.

Cords and Plugs:

Cords, plugs, and outlet damage are extremely common causes of electrical fires. If these items are tattered, frayed, worn out, or showing burn signs, they should immediately be replaced. Old cords that are in poor condition can overheat or spark which can lead to a fire. Replacing cords is a simple and non-expensive way to help prevent electrical fires. 

Outlets:

It is important to make sure your outlets are not overloaded, as this can be a huge risk factor for electrical fires. The United States Fire Administration recommends that power strips equipped with internal overload protection are purchased. These strips help ensure that a strip turns off when it becomes overloaded to help prevent fire damage.

Space Heaters:

Since space heaters are plugged in, they can be dangerous if not used carefully and correctly. Flammable materials such as paper, cardboard, coats, and rugs should be kept away from equipment that can become hot and overheat. 

Wiring:

Faulty wiring is a huge hazard and should be addressed immediately. If a lamp is flickering or an outlet is sparking, an electrician should be consulted to repair them as soon as possible. Appliances that are hot to touch and overheating should also be checked out by an electrician.

Inspection:

Your business should be inspected for hazardous situations that could potentially cause a fire. A licensed electrician can help keep your business and employees safe with a thorough assessment of the outlets, wiring, appliances, and other fire hazards.

Taking a few moments to ensure your business is safe from electrical fires is an easy, non-expensive way to keep you, your business, and employees safe. If you do experience a fire, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is here to restore any damages and get your business back to normal.

Call (484) 841-6669

Recover from Fire Damage

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Reclaim Control of Your Life

When a fire strikes a home or business in Glen Mills, there is so much devastation in such a short time that the people may feel they have lost all control over their lives.

When fire and water take control of your life,

we help you take it back.

Call SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester at (484) 841-6669. We have 24-hour emergency service 365 days of the year, so we can get technicians out to repair fire damage or water damage quickly.

Our technicians remove soot and smoke (both of which cause additional damage) and extract any water or moisture left from the fire-fighting efforts. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester has technicians who are experts at restoring fire-damaged or water-damaged building materials and contents.

The emergency team members also document every object and part of the building, noting its current condition and keeping a record of the steps to restore it to the preloss condition. If restoration is not possible, they document the reasons. They make working with insurance companies less stressful than it would be alone. Even better, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester works with most insurance companies, allowing people to attend to their families and employees or clients.

If there’s an emergency, we’re Faster to any size disaster.  Call us at (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

Space Heaters are the Second-Leading Cause of Home Fires

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Professional Restoration Experts Call (484) 841-6669

Space Heaters are the Second-Leading Cause of Home Fires

Spring temperatures are cool at night, and many people use space heaters to reduce heating costs and to heat rooms with inadequate heat distribution. Although space heaters are commonly used for this purpose, a report from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) identifies space heaters as being responsible for 53 percent of U.S. home fires, and the leading cause of home fire deaths. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester offers residents these suggestions from the NFPA on how to use electric space heaters safely:

  • Keep children and pets away from space heaters at all times
  • Never leaved a space heater unattended
  • Turn your space heater off before going to bed
  • Place space heaters at a minimum of three feet away from combustible materials
  • Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are operating
  • Make sure the electrical cords are not damaged and avoid the use of extension cords   

We Are Fire Damage Specialists

When a fire causes damage to your home or business, we want to help. We offer many services to clean and restore furniture, documents, and keepsakes and can store items while repairs are underway.

Call Us Today

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants residents and business owners to know that we have the training and state-of-the-art equipment to respond to any fire damage emergency. We will clean and restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Call (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO is Here to Help with Fire Damage

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

Here to Help®

Did you know that residential fires account 27 percent of reported fires and 70 percent of all fire injuries? According to the National Fire Protection Association, the top causes of residential fires in the home are cooking, heating, electrical, smoking, and candles. They suggest that residents should routinely check for hidden electrical hazards like damaged cords, discolored or warm wall outlets, frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers. Any of these issues should be dealt with by a qualified electrician.

When Fires Happen, We Respond

No matter how vigilant we are regarding home fire safety, fires can still happen. When a fire causes damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Here to Help.® Fire, smoke, and water damage from firefighting efforts can cause damage to your home that can be costly if not repaired quickly. Fortunately, our team of professionals have the specialized training and state-of-the-art equipment to restore your home to pre-fire condition. We can also help with the insurance paperwork and process.

Call Us Today

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is ready to respond to any residential or commercial fire damage emergency.  From your initial call we can be onsite within four hours, and we are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We will clean and restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Call (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated

We Restore Your Keepsakes

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Professional Restoration Experts Call (484) 841-6669

The firefighters have just left you are standing in the midst of your home that has been ravaged by fire. Not only is there damage to your home, but there is also damage to your furniture and other home contents caused by soot, smoke, ash and water used by the firefighters to put out the flames. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants home and business owners to know that we provide content restoration services and approach every fire damage emergency with a “restore” versus “replace” mentality to help you save money and to help you preserve as many of your precious and irreplaceable family heirlooms that we can. We can’t always clean and restore all of your belongings back to pre-fire condition, but we can clean and restore many of your damaged contents using techniques like:

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

We are on call to respond to any fire damage emergency 24 hours a day. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester provides quality contents restoration services to business owners and residents. Call today at (484) 841-6669.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Here to Help with Fire Damage

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

According the National Fire Protection Agency, cooking fires have remained the major cause of fires in homes and commercial businesses in the U.S. since 2013. Fires can break out at any time. Lightning, faulty wiring, defective kitchen or other household appliances are just some of the other ways fire can damage your home or business. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants businesses and homeowners to know that we are equipped to respond to any size fire damage emergency and have the specialty equipment and training required to clean and restore fire damage to preloss condition. Here are some fire prevention safety tips from the American Red Cross:

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

If you experience fire damage to your home or business SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants to help. Our team of highly trained professionals are on call 24 hours. Call us today at 484-841-6669. We’ll take care of your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is independently owned and operated.

Call (484) 841-6669

Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester for Fire Damage

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Call us for any fire damage emergency. Our fire damage professionals are ready 24/7 to respond to your call. Our swift response will limit further damage and reduce your restoration costs.

Our team will start the restoration process right away. Our restoration process includes inspection and fire damage assessment, immediate board-up and roof tarp service (if needed), water removal and drying (if water damage is present), removal of smoke and soot from all surfaces, cleaning and repair, and restoration.

We're certified by the IICRC in fire restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester has the training and specialized equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Call (484) 841-6669

Winter Fire Awareness

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

Heating, holiday decorations, winter storms and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during the winter months.

Heating

Heating is the second leading cause of U.S. home fires, deaths and injuries. December, January and February are the peak months for heating fires. Space heaters are the type of equipment most often involved in home heating equipment fires, figuring in two of every five fires (40%).

Carbon Monoxide

Often called the invisible killer, carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, propane, etc. do not burn completely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of CO. Carbon monoxide incidents are more common during the winter months, and in residential properties.

Winter storms

Most of the U.S. is at risk for winter storms, which can cause dangerous and sometimes life-threatening conditions. Blinding wind-driven snow, extreme cold, icy road conditions, downed trees and power lines can all wreak havoc on our daily schedules. Home fires occur more in the winter than in any other season, and heating equipment is involved in one of every six reported home fires, and one in every five home fire deaths.

Generators

Portable generators are useful during power outages; however, many homeowners are unaware that the improper use of portable generators can be risky. The most common dangers associated with portable generators are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, electrical shock or electrocution, and fire hazards. According to a 2013 Consumer Product Safety Commission report, half of the generator-related deaths happened in the four coldest months of the year, November through February, and portable generators were involved in the majority of carbon monoxide deaths involving engine-driven tools. 

Candles

December is the peak time of year for home candle fires; the top three days for home candle fires are Christmas, New Year’s Day, and New Year’s Eve. Each year between 2012 and 2016, an average of 8,200 home candle fires were reported each year.

Electrical

Electrical home fires are a leading cause of home fires in the U.S. Roughly half of all home electrical fires involved electrical distribution or lighting equipment, while nearly another half involved other known types of equipment like washer or dryer fans, and portable or stationary space heaters.

As you stay cozy and warm this winter season, be fire smart.

If you experience any fire, water, or mold damage, call (484) 841-6669.

What to do in Case of a Fire

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to share tips about what to do in case of a fire.

  • Have an escape plan and practice it.  Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do in case of a fire.  Your plan should identify all available exits from each room and routes that lead from the room to a safe, open air space.  Designate a meeting place away from your house, such as a neighbor's yard.  Practice your plan every few months, including at night, which is when fires are most deadly since it's more difficult to find a safe exit.
  • Stay low and crawl to an exit to avoid smoke inhalation. Feel doorknobs to see if they're hot.  Never open a door if the doorknob feels hot.  That means there's most likely a fire behind it, and opening the door will put you in danger and fuel the fire with oxygen.
  • Don't hide.  Even if you're scared, it's important to never hide under a bed, in a closet, or anywhere else that emergency responders wouldn't be able to find you. Try not to panic, and do your best to remain calm and make your way to the nearest way out of your house.

If you experience a fire, call (484) 841-6669

Here to Help with Fire Damage!

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Fires come in many sizes, just as homes range from small to extravagantly large. Large homes might have the luxury of spaciousness, but that can also cause homeowners to have a more difficult time detecting problems early. Fire is one such problem.

When a home in West Chester burns, homeowners often worry about the amount of fire damage their home suffers. However, the smoke and particles in soot pose just as much of a hazard to residents. These particles can carry carcinogens and irritants that make breathing difficult. SERVPRO of West Chester removes all the damage, making your home, no matter how large or small, “Like it never even happened,” again, ready for your family to live in comfortable and familiar surroundings once more.

Removing charred building materials that once made up your home's interior can make your home seem bare, but it is part of the process we implement to prepare for new materials. Smoke-free, these materials pose no risk to your family's health.

Fire damage can impact any area of your home, from floors to ceiling, and we do our best to match new sections to undamaged areas. We know that continuity in your home, from one area of a wall to the next, is one of those small aspects that mean a great deal aesthetically. We want a clean, polished look for your home, just as we know your family appreciated before the fire.

Cleaning up the contents of your home is a job we perform by hand. Some items, such as knick-knack collections, clean up well on-site, in large tubs that we bring specifically for that purpose. Our team gathers together and transports other items, including large draperies and window blinds, for cleaning at our facility. Once completed, all steps, from the restoration of your home to cleaning and removal of soot and grime of your personal belongings and household furnishings, bring together your house, fully restored and waiting for your return home.

If you experience a fire, call (484) 841-6669

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

Professional Restoration Experts Call (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County hopes you never experience the devastation that comes with fire damage. However, in the event that disaster strikes, be aware that our IICRC certified technicians are qualified in all aspects of cleaning up the damage left by smoke and fire in your business or residence.

Fire extinguishers may help prevent fire damage or smoke damage, but only if you know how to use them.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants to share these tips from FEMA. You can try to fight a small fire only if:

You have alerted others in the building that there is a fire
Someone has called the fire department
You are physically able to use a fire extinguisher
The fire is small and contained (like a wastebasket)
You are safe from the fire’s smoke
You have a clear escape route

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher:

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County suggests you remember PASS:
Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism
Aim at the base of the fire
Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly
Sweep the nozzle side to side

If you experience any fire damage, call Danielle at (484) 841-6669

Smoke Alarms

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

Professional Restoration Experts Call (484) 841-6669

Since fire spreads fast once it is started, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants to remind you that smoke detectors (smoke alarms) can help save lives in your Aston home. An alarm alerts you that danger may be present giving you time to get out.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants you to remember:

  • Large homes might need extra smoke alarms
  • Install smoke alarms on every level of the home
  • Closed doors help to prevent the spread of fire
  • Some companies make alarms that are interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound
  • Test the smoke alarms at least once a month. There is a test button on the alarm
  • Replace all smoke alarms every 10 years
  • Do not turn off smoke detectors when cooking
  • When the alarm sounds, get everyone outside and stay outside

If your home is not properly protected by a smoke detector, please install one. If you experience a fire, immediately vacate the home and then contact your fire department once you are outside the home.

If you experience fire damage, call (484) 841-6669.

Candle Safety

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Professional Restoration Experts Call (484) 841-6669

It’s that pumpkin latte time of year again, and SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants you to be safe from fire damage and smoke damage. Although fires from candles happen more often around the holidays, many people use candles all year round. It is important to be careful any time you have an open flame in your home.

Prevention is the best way to fight against fire damage or injuries.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County offers these Tips for Fire Prevention from Candles:

  • Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire
  • Do not let children near candles
  • Put out candles when leaving the room or going to bed
  • Keep trees and other plants away from candles
  • Make sure candles are not near window curtains or blinds that could catch fire
  • Keep lit candles in safe candle holders
  • If the flame has to burn until the candles are out, keep the candles in holders that keep the flames behind glass
  • If the flame has to burn until the candles are out, keep the candle holders in a sink or a metal container of water
  • Do not leave children alone in a room with lit candles
  • Do not light candles in the bedroom. You might fall asleep. One third of all candle fires start in the bedroom. 
  • If the power goes out, use flashlights instead of candles
  • If someone in the home uses oxygen, do not use candles
  • Fire damage from candles happens 35 times a day in the U.S.

A little caution goes a long way to protect you and your loved ones. If you have to deal with damage caused by smoke or fire from a candle in your home, your friends at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County are just a phone call away.

If you experience fire damage, call (484) 841-6669.

Fire Extinguishers

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Professional Restoration Experts Call (484) 841-6669

Smoke and fire damage is something all of us at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County would like to see you avoid. In the event the worst happens and you are faced with this kind of disaster, you can count on us to lend a helping hand. We have a team of highly trained professionals to walk with you each step of the way when repairing the damage from smoke, water, and fire in your home.

Just to be safe, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County recommends you keep at least one fire extinguisher and know how to use it (them).

A fire-extinguisher may prevent fire damage and smoke damage from spreading throughout the home.

If you see a small fire that you take care of yourself, use the following tips.  If you have any worries, you and everyone should leave the house and call 9-1-1 when you are outside.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants you to know that you can try to fight a small fire only if:

  • You can get to the fire extinguisher quickly. Fire is fast. Fire damage and smoke damage are less painful than personal injuries
  • You know how to use the fire extinguisher

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County explains the Types of Home Fire Extinguishers:

Classes A, B, and C fire extinguishers are found in both homes and businesses

  • Class A is for cloth, wood, and paper
  • Class B is for liquids that can burst into flame or explode, such as grease, gasoline, oil, or oil-based paints
  • Class C is for electrical equipment like computers, tools, or anything else that is plugged in
  • Most home-improvement stores sell multi-purpose fire extinguishers: Classes A:B:C

If you experience fire damage, call (484) 841-6669

Fire Damage

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Homes can have issues from fire or smoke damage for various reasons. In the Holiday season home fires often occur from unattended candles and cooking accidents. In winter months they often occur due to fireplaces and wood stoves or from space heaters. In the spring and summer months fires often occur from issues related to barbecues and grills.

Fires from barbecues and grills typically cause the most damage to the outside of a home or building but damage can also occur inside due from fire or smoke but also from water damage from firefighting efforts.

Fires can be devastating to your home and life. It is important to be mindful of these reasons that fires can start so that they can be prevented.

If you experience a fire in your home, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is the restoration company to call. We are leaders in fire, water, and mold damage restoration. We care about you, your family, and your home and will do anything to get your life back to normal. Call (484) 841-6669

Fire Safety in Your Home

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Fires can be very frightening – they are scary, spread quickly and can cause devastating losses.  While we cannot completely fire-proof our homes, there are a few safety steps you can take to help protect your family in the event of a fire.

  • Install and regularly test smoke detectors. Statistics show that working smoke detectors reduce the risk of death in a house fire almost in half! Fires spread quickly, and once that alarm sounds, you may only have a minute or two to escape.
  • Practice Fire Drills at home. Since time is of the utmost importance during a fire, it is best to KNOW what do in the event of a fire.  What is the best escape route? Where does the family meet up outside?  In order to respond quickly, it is best to have a rehearsed plan ahead of time.
  • Have fire extinguishers handy & know how to use them. Keep them in an easy access location near a likely source of fire – in the kitchen, the laundry room, etc.  And maybe buy a few extra and have your children practice using them (probably best to do OUTSIDE).
  • Childproof your kitchen. To keep small children from accidentally turning on the stove, which may having something on it that could burn.
  • Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children. Make sure to teach your children they are not toys.

While no one wants to imagine what they would do in the event of a fire, it is better to be prepared, and have a plan to help keep your family as safe as possible.  And if you do experience a fire, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County. We are here to help you and your family in any fire, water, or mold emergency. (484) 841-6669

Main Causes of Cooking Fires

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Professional Restoration Experts Call (484) 841-6669

Cooking fires are one of the most common fires that occur in a home. It is important to know the causes so that you can be mindful in preventing them.

The top main cause of a cooking fire are:

  1. Towels or potholder left on the stove too close to the burner.
  2. Cooking with hot oils.
  3. Cooking on too high of heat.
  4. Food that burns in the oven or on the stove top.
  5. Microwaves 

The damage that cooking fires cause can be devastating to your home and family. It is important to implement safe cooking practices in your home at all time.

If you do experience a fire while cooking in your kitchen, be sure to call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County right away. We know accidents happen and are here to restore your home or kitchen to make them look brand new. Here at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County, we are here to help 24/7/365. Give us a call for any fire, water, or mold damage to your home. (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County believes Benjamin Franklin would be proud of Glen Mills

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Benjamin Franklin organized the first volunteer fire department in Pennsylvania

Restore property from fire damage

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County urges all who live and work around Glen Mills to do whatever possible to prevent fires. If the worst happens, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County has 24-hour emergency service every single day of the year.

When fire and water take control of your life,

we help you take it back.

Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County at (484) 841-6669.

History: Fun Facts for Glen Mills

Not having to worry about coping with fire damage means there is time to learn some history about fighting fires in the United States. No surprise – Philadelphia has a starring role.

William Penn saw the devastation of the London Fire in 1666. When he founded Philadelphia in 1682, he made plans so the city would be less likely to suffer a similar fate. Measures included:

  • Buildings made of brick instead of wood
  • Laws that required regular chimney cleaning

The city bought its first fire engine in 1718 – that was great!

No one maintained it – that was not great.

In 1730, the city needed its fire engine, but the equipment didn’t work (see above).

Benjamin Franklin was not pleased. He wrote about the need for more equipment and better maintenance.

In 1736, Franklin created the first volunteer fire-fighting company.

Relevance to SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County

The history shows our pride in the area and our commitment to Glen Mills.

If there is a fire, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County will work to restore the property and its contents from damage caused by soot, smoke, and water.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Link:

https://www.SERVPROsoutherndelawarecounty.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration

What To/Not To Do After a Fire

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

What to/Not to do After a Fire

In any situation involving a fire, your first priority should be safety. Fires can be extremely devastating, and SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to help with tips on what to do and not to do after a fire.

What to Do After a Fire

  • It is important to limit movement within your home or business. This prevents soot particles from becoming embedded into carpets and upholstery.
  • Keep your hands clean so you do not dirty any upholstery, rugs, and carpet.
  • Place clean linens or towels on high traffic areas to prevent the spread of soot.
  • If your electricity is shut off, empty out your freezer and refrigerator while keeping the doors propped open.
  • Clean and protect any chrome by coating lightly with petroleum jelly or oil.
  • Wash both sides of leaves on any houseplants.
  • Make sure to change your HVAC system.
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT to Do after a Fire

  • Do not attempt to clean or wash any walls or painted surfaces by yourself. Instead, call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County for professional fire damage cleaning.
  • Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without consulting proper professionals, as these items can be dangerous when damaged.
  • Do not use any canned or packages food product or beverage that may have been stores near fire, heat, or water. Instead, discard of these products as they can be dangerous to consume.
  • Do not turn on any ceiling fans as they can be dangerous if the wiring is damaged.
  • Do not send your garments to a regular dry cleaner as improper cleaning may set smoke odor into the garments. Instead, find a cleaner that specializes in fire and smoke damages.

Make sure to call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County if you have experienced a fire in your home or business. We are here to help you get back to normal!

Preventing Electrical Fires in Your Business

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

Prevent Electrical Fires in Your Business

Electrical fires can be extremely detrimental to your business. Damages can occur from both the fire and the water that is used during firefighting efforts.  As a business owner, it is important to know the steps to take to prevent electrical fires in your office.

Cords and Plugs:

Cords, plugs, and outlet damage are extremely common causes of electrical fires. If these items are tattered, frayed, worn out, or showing burn signs, they should immediately be replaced. Old cords that are in poor condition can overheat or spark which can lead to a fire. Replacing cords is a simple and non-expensive way to help prevent electrical fires. 

Outlets:

It is important to make sure your outlets are not overloaded, as this can be a huge risk factor for electrical fires. The United States Fire Administration recommends that power strips equipped with internal overload protection are purchased. These strips help ensure that a strip turns off when it becomes overloaded to help prevent fire damage.

Space Heaters:

Since space heaters are plugged in, they can be dangerous if not used carefully and correctly. Flammable materials such as paper, cardboard, coats, and rugs should be kept away from equipment that can become hot and overheat. 

Wiring:

Faulty wiring is a huge hazard and should be addressed immediately. If a lamp is flickering or an outlet is sparking, an electrician should be consulted to repair them as soon as possible. Appliances that are hot to touch and overheating should also be checked out by an electrician.

Inspection:

Your business should be inspected for hazardous situations that could potentially cause a fire. A licensed electrician can help keep your business and employees safe with a thorough assessment of the outlets, wiring, appliances, and other fire hazards.

Taking a few moments to ensure your business is safe from electrical fires is an easy, non-expensive way to keep you, your business, and employees safe. If you do experience a fire, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to restore any damages and get your business back to normal.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County helps Glen Mills recover from fire damage

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County won’t allow fire to take over Glen Mills homes and businesses

Reclaim Control of Your Life

When a fire strikes a home or business in Glen Mills, there is so much devastation in such a short time that the people may feel they have lost all control over their lives.

When fire and water take control of your life,

we help you take it back.

Call SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County at (484) 841-6669. We have 24-hour emergency service 365 days of the year, so we can get technicians out to repair fire damage or water damage quickly.

Our technicians remove soot and smoke (both of which cause additional damage) and extract any water or moisture left from the fire-fighting efforts. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County has technicians who are experts at restoring fire-damaged or water-damaged building materials and contents.

The emergency team members also document every object and part of the building, noting its current condition and keeping a record of the steps to restore it to the preloss condition. If restoration is not possible, they document the reasons. They make working with insurance companies less stressful than it would be alone. Even better, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County works with most insurance companies, allowing people to attend to their families and employees or clients.

If there’s an emergency, we’re Faster to any size disaster.  Call us at (484) 841-6669.

Check out our website for a look at our wide range of services.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

Link:

https://www.SERVPROsoutherndelawarecounty.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration

Space Heaters Can Cause Fire Damage in Aston

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Improperly used space heaters can be dangerous and can cause fires in Delaware County.

Space Heaters are the Second-Leading Cause of Home Fires

Spring temperatures in Southern Delaware County are cool at night, and many people use space heaters to reduce heating costs and to heat rooms with inadequate heat distribution. Although space heaters are commonly used for this purpose, a report from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) identifies space heaters as being responsible for 53 percent of U.S. home fires, and the leading cause of home fire deaths. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County offers Aston residents these suggestions from the NFPA on how to use electric space heaters safely:

  • Keep children and pets away from space heaters at all times
  • Never leaved a space heater unattended
  • Turn your space heater off before going to bed
  • Place space heaters at a minimum of three feet away from combustible materials
  • Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are operating
  • Make sure the electrical cords are not damaged and avoid the use of extension cords   

We Are Fire Damage Specialists

When a fire causes damage to your home or business, we want to help. We offer many services to clean and restore furniture, documents, and keepsakes and can store items while repairs are underway.

Call Us Today

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County wants Aston residents and business owners to know that we have the training and state-of-the-art equipment to respond to any fire damage emergency. Call us today at 484-841-6669. We will clean and restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

We Clean and Disinfect Essential Businesses in Concordville

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Our team professionals are ready to respond to your fire damage emergency in Delaware County.

Here to Help®

Did you know that residential fires account 27 percent of reported fires and 70 percent of all fire injuries? According to the National Fire Protection Association, the top causes of residential fires in the home are cooking, heating, electrical, smoking, and candles. They suggest that residents should routinely check for hidden electrical hazards like damaged cords, discolored or warm wall outlets, frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers. Any of these issues should be dealt with by a qualified electrician.

When Fires Happen, We Respond

No matter how vigilant we are regarding home fire safety, fires can still happen. When a fire causes damage to your home or business in Concordville, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is Here to Help.® Fire, smoke, and water damage from firefighting efforts can cause damage to your home that can be costly if not repaired quickly. Fortunately, our team of professionals have the specialized training and state-of-the-art equipment to restore your home to pre-fire condition. We can also help with the insurance paperwork and process.

Call Us Today

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is ready to respond to any residential or commercial fire damage emergency in Concordville.  From your initial call we can be onsite within four hours, and we are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We will clean and restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 484-841-6669.

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Safety Tips for Delaware County

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will clean and restore your fire damage in Brookhaven “Like it never even happened.”

According the National Fire Protection Agency, cooking fires have remained the major cause of fires in homes and commercial businesses in the U.S. since 2013. Fires can break out at any time. Lightning, faulty wiring, defective kitchen or other household appliances are just some of the other ways fire can damage your home or business. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County wants businesses and homeowners to know that we are equipped to respond to any size fire damage emergency and have the specialty equipment and training required to clean and restore fire damage in Brookhaven to preloss condition. Here are some fire prevention safety tips from the American Red Cross:

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

If you experience fire damage to your home or business SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County wants to help. Our team of highly trained professionals are on call 24 hours. Call us today at 484-841-6669. We’ll take care of your fire damage in Brookhaven “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Commercial Fire in Sharon Hill

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

View Before & After Photos of a commercial fire we did in Sharon Hill, Pa we are a full reconstruction company.

Call us for any fire damage emergency. Our fire damage professionals are ready 24/7 to respond to your call. Our swift response will limit further damage and reduce your restoration costs. Our team will start the restoration process right away. Our restoration process includes inspection and fire damage assessment, immediate board-up and roof tarp service (if needed), water removal and drying (if water damage is present), removal of smoke and soot from all surfaces, cleaning and repair, and restoration. We're certified by the IICRC in fire restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County has the training and specialized equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Put a Freeze on Winter Fires

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

Heating, holiday decorations, winter storms and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during the winter months.

Heating

Heating is the second leading cause of U.S. home fires, deaths and injuries. December, January and February are the peak months for heating fires. Space heaters are the type of equipment most often involved in home heating equipment fires, figuring in two of every five fires (40%).

Carbon Monoxide

Often called the invisible killer, carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, propane, etc. do not burn completely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of CO. Carbon monoxide incidents are more common during the winter months, and in residential properties.

Winter storms

Most of the U.S. is at risk for winter storms, which can cause dangerous and sometimes life-threatening conditions. Blinding wind-driven snow, extreme cold, icy road conditions, downed trees and power lines can all wreak havoc on our daily schedules. Home fires occur more in the winter than in any other season, and heating equipment is involved in one of every six reported home fires, and one in every five home fire deaths.

Generators

Portable generators are useful during power outages; however, many homeowners are unaware that the improper use of portable generators can be risky. The most common dangers associated with portable generators are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, electrical shock or electrocution, and fire hazards. According to a 2013 Consumer Product Safety Commission report, half of the generator-related deaths happened in the four coldest months of the year, November through February, and portable generators were involved in the majority of carbon monoxide deaths involving engine-driven tools. 

Candles

December is the peak time of year for home candle fires; the top three days for home candle fires are Christmas, New Year’s Day, and New Year’s Eve. Each year between 2012 and 2016, an average of 8,200 home candle fires were reported each year.

Electrical

Electrical home fires are a leading cause of home fires in the U.S. Roughly half of all home electrical fires involved electrical distribution or lighting equipment, while nearly another half involved other known types of equipment like washer or dryer fans, and portable or stationary space heaters.

As you stay cozy and warm this winter season, be fire smart.

The Dangers of Not using a Proper Restoration Company

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

The US estimates there were 1,319,500 fires in 2017. If you experience a house fire, the next step will be figuring out your financial loss, and the emotional toll it will take from losing sentimental belongings. SERVPRO believes in contacting a professional restoration company to restore your home immediately after a fire will help you get back into your home, and back to your day to day life sooner. It’s not enough to simply hire a fire restoration company after a fire; the company you hire must be capable. If you don’t hire a professional restoration company, your home could suffer some long-term effects from the fire.

As the saying goes, where there is smoke, there is fire. The damage a house fire causes can be awful. Destroying sentimental items can take an emotional toll, as they are items that cannot simply be replaced. However, the damage caused by smoke is as powerful as that of fire. The smell of smoke may not cause bodily damage, but the stench of smoke can linger long after the flames have been put out. Without professional help from a reputable fire restoration company, you and your family could inhale smoke for years, which is a threat to your lungs and your eyes. Individuals who already have problems with their lungs and eyes can experience greater problems if they inhale air stained with smoke for a prolonged time.

Be sure to call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County if you ever have to unfortunately deal with the loss from a fire. We will get your family back to their life, sooner, and safer.

Fire Prevention Month in Southern Delaware County

10/23/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Month is in October every year. This year the Fire Prevention Month campaign is, “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!” works to educate everyone about the small but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe. In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Making a plan with your family to practice and plan an escape during a fire will be critical if you ever need to use that plan. During a fire, just seconds can mean the difference between a safe escape and a tragedy. Fire safety education isn’t just for school children. Teenagers, adults, and the elderly are also at risk in fires, making it important for every member of the community to take some time every October during Fire Prevention Week to make sure they understand how to stay safe in case of a fire.

Since 1922, the NFPA has sponsored the public observance of Fire Prevention Week. In 1925, President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed Fire Prevention Week a national observance, making it the longest-running public health observance in our country. During Fire Prevention Week, children, adults, and teachers learn how to stay safe in case of a fire. Firefighters provide lifesaving public education in an effort to drastically decrease casualties caused by fires. Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of October 9th in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871, and caused devastating damage. This awful fire killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures, and burned more than 2,000 acres of land.

We think it is very important in informing our community about fire safety, as well as ways to prevent fires, and make sure your home is protected with smoke alarms, and the necessary safety equipment. It is also important to have the proper plan in place, in the event there is a fire. Make sure you call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County with any fire damage needs.

Pet Safety in Case of a Fire Damage in Aston

10/16/2019 (Permalink)

Be prepared to help your pet stay safe in the unfortunate event of fire damage.

At SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County we love our pets as much as you love yours. We could not stand to see them injured or killed in a house fire but unfortunately fire damage can harm animals just as it can harm people in Aston.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County shares these ideas with you to protect your pet(s):

  • When you design your fire escape plan, practice with your pets
  • If there are fires outside, bring pets If you have to evacuate, you will be ready to bring the pets with you
  • Know where your pets hide. You may not have time to hunt for them in an emergency
  • Animal-rescue groups and other organizations have pet stickers that you can put on your windows and doors. The stickers tell firefighters how many pets you have, and what kinds
  • Prepare evacuation kits for the pets. These kits can be large plastic bins. Put in copies of their vet records, extra leashes and collars, toys, and food

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County reminds you to call the fire department once you are safely outside the Aston home.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Campaigns/TakeAction/Household-pets

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Campaigns/TakeAction/TakeActionPetsChecklist.pdf

Smoke Detectors can Save Lives and Prevent Fire Damage in Aston

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

By installing a fire alarm in your home, you can lower your risk of being harmed in the event a fire breaks out in your Aston home.

Since fire spreads fast once it is started, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County wants to remind you that smoke detectors (smoke alarms) can help save lives in your Aston home. An alarm alerts you that danger may be present giving you time to get out.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants you to remember:

  • Large homes might need extra smoke alarms
  • Install smoke alarms on every level of the home
  • Closed doors help to prevent the spread of fire
  • Some companies make alarms that are interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound
  • Test the smoke alarms at least once a month. There is a test button on the alarm
  • Replace all smoke alarms every 10 years
  • Do not turn off smoke detectors when cooking
  • When the alarm sounds, get everyone outside and stay outside

If your Aston home is not properly protected by a smoke detector, please install one. If you experience a fire, immediately vacate the home and then contact your fire department once you are outside the home.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Smoke-alarms

https://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/smoke-alarms/safety-messages-about-smoke-alarms

Safety Tips To Prevent Fire Damage when using Candles in Glen Mills

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

Enjoying a beautifully lit candle is relaxing. Cleaning up smoke damage and fire damage is not. Practice safety while using candles.

It’s that pumpkin latte time of year again, and SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants you to be safe from fire damage and smoke damage. Although fires from candles happen more often around the holidays, many people use candles all year round. It is important to be careful any time you have an open flame in your Glen Mills home.

Prevention is the best way to fight against fire damage or injuries.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County offers these Tips for Fire Prevention from Candles:

  • Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire
  • Do not let children near candles
  • Put out candles when leaving the room or going to bed
  • Keep trees and other plants away from candles
  • Make sure candles are not near window curtains or blinds that could catch fire
  • Keep lit candles in safe candle holders
  • If the flame has to burn until the candles are out, keep the candles in holders that keep the flames behind glass
  • If the flame has to burn until the candles are out, keep the candle holders in a sink or a metal container of water
  • Do not leave children alone in a room with lit candles
  • Do not light candles in the bedroom. You might fall asleep. One third of all candle fires start in the bedroom. 
  • If the power goes out, use flashlights instead of candles
  • If someone in the home uses oxygen, do not use candles
  • Fire damage from candles happens 35 times a day in the U.S.

A little caution goes a long way to protect you and your loved ones. If you have to deal with damage caused by smoke or fire from a candle in your Glen Mills home, your friends at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County are just a phone call away.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Links:

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

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire/Candles

https://www.nfpa.org/~/media/files/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets/religious_candles_safety_tips.pdf 

Different Types of Fire Extinguishers in Aston

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent fire damage by knowing the different types of Fire Extinguishers for your home or business.

Smoke and fire damage is something all of us at SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County would like to see you avoid. In the event, the worst happens and you are faced with this kind of disaster, you can count on us to lend a helping hand. We have a team of highly trained professionals to walk with you each step of the way when repairing the damage from smoke, water, and fire in your Aston home

Just to be safe, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County recommends you keep at least one fire extinguisher and know how to use it (them).

A fire-extinguisher may prevent fire damage and smoke damage from spreading throughout the home.

If you see a small fire that you take care of yourself, use the following tips.  If you have any worries, you and everyone should leave the house and call 9-1-1 when you are outside.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants you to know that you can try to fight a small fire only if:

  • You can get to the fire extinguisher quickly. Fire is fast. Fire damage and smoke damage are less painful than personal injuries
  • You know how to use the fire extinguisher

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County explains the Types of Home Fire Extinguishers:

Classes A, B, and C fire extinguishers are found in both homes and businesses

  • Class A is for cloth, wood, and paper
  • Class B is for liquids that can burst into flame or explode, such as grease, gasoline, oil, or oil-based paints
  • Class C is for electrical equipment like computers, tools, or anything else that is plugged in
  • Most home-improvement stores sell multi-purpose fire extinguishers: Classes A:B:C

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Links:

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

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

Tips to Prevent Kitchen Fires in Chadd’s Ford

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Be safe and always practice fire safety in the kitchen.

Many people are not aware that cooking equipment is a leading cause of fire damage and fire injuries in homes across America. In fact, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County  wants you to understands that some fires in Chadd’s Ford could be avoided by practicing fire safety in the kitchen.

To help prevent fire damage, SERVPRO of  Southern Delaware County shares these tips.

Be aware:

  • Many kitchen items can catch fire, including: dish towels, oven mitts, recipes, wooden tools, and loose clothing
  • Never operate the stove or oven when you are tired or have been drinking alcohol
  • If you are frying, broiling, grilling, or boiling food, stay in the kitchen. If you leave, even for a short time, turn off the heat
  • Keep flammable items at least three feet from the stove top
  • Do not allow children within two to four feet of the stove or oven
  • If you must leave the house while cooking of any kind, turn off the heat sources

Remember that fire is fast. If you cannot contain a fire immediately, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 from outside your Chadd’s Ford home.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County reminds you that fire prevention is the best strategy against fire damage. If you would like to learn about more ways to prevent fires in your home, please visit https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/ for more information.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated. 

Look. Listen. Learn

10/18/2018 (Permalink)

While fire prevention week may be over, practicing fire safety should always be an important part of everyday living.  The theme for 2018's Fire Prevention Week is Look.Listen.Learn.  This theme aims to raise awareness of “three basic but essential steps to take to reduce the likelihood of having a fire.” Those steps are:
LOOK for possible fire hazards in your home and eliminate them.
LISTEN for your home’s smoke alarms. Know that you may have only minutes to get out if a fire breaks out.
LEARN two ways out of each room of your home. Exits should be easy to access and free of clutter. After leaving the home, go to your family’s designated meeting spot, established when you set up a home fire escape plan.

The National Fire Protection Association provides resources, including community posters, for the public to use to educate others about home fire safety. For kids, the campaign has activity pages and Simon, a character who shares messages about fire safety.

October Is National Fire Prevention Month

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Month (and week) raises awareness about fire safety and home safety to help ensure your home and family are prepared in the case of an emergency. This is a perfect time to discuss fire safety with your family.  Every family's safety plans will differ from the next - that is why it is important to sit down with your whole family and plan your home's fire safety plans.  

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)'s 2018 campaign for Fire Prevention Week is "Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. A fire can be anywhere."

According to the NFPA*, in 2016 there were 352,000 home fires, and 3 out of 5 fire deaths occurred in homes without smoke alarms.
Less than 50% of homeowners have an escape plan.
Carbon monoxide is the #1 cause of accidental death.

These facts and statistics are reasons why your home needs to be equipped with the proper amount of fire safety equipment and alarms. Fire Prevention Month is a great time to kick start your families commitment to fire safety!

Smoke Alarms - Why, Where, & Which?

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

Every year in the United States, about 2000 people die in residential fires.  A smoke alarm stands guard around the clock, and when it first senses smoke, it sounds a shrill alarm.  This often allows a family the precious, but limited, time to escape.  About 2/3 of home fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or no working alarms.

Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home, outside sleeping areas, and inside bedrooms.  In general, alarms should be placed in the center of a ceiling or, if you place them on a wall, they should be near the ceiling.

There are 2 types of smoke alarms:

Ionization - these alarms are more responsive to flaming fires.  They use "ions" or electrically charged particles, to help detect smoke in the air

Photoelectric - these alarms are more responsive to smoke or smoldering fires.  They use a light beam to help detect the presence of smoke.

Whichever type of smoke alarm you choose, it's imperative that you change the batteries twice a year and best them every month.

How to Easily Avoid Commercial Fire Hazards

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

We all know how important it is to have working fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and fire sprinklers.  What you may not be fully aware of, is that is is also very important for employees to do their part to keep fire hazards to a minimum.  Here are a few examples of how to do that.

*Excessive Clutter

Files, folders, and papers need to be disposed of once they are no longer needed.  All of these items can easily fuel an office fire.

*Electrical Problems

Overloaded extension cords or old surge protectors can become fire hazards.  Electronic devices should be powered down when not in use.  All wiring should be in good working order since old wiring is just as dangerous to a commercial building as it would be in a private home.

*Negligance

Mistakes can happen to anyone.  These could include leaving a stove or burner on in the kitchen/break room, burning something in the microwave, or smoking in non-designated areas.

An ounce of prevention could prove to be very beneficial when it comes to keeping your commercial property safe from fire hazards.

Do's & Don'ts Following a House Fire

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

There are so many emotions and questions following a house fire that it is hard to know what you should or shouldn't do.  Here are a few basic tips to keep in mind:

DONT'S

*Do not enter your home until you've gotten permission that is is safe to do so

*Do not start or move your car if it has been damaged

*Do not try to clean any of the smoke or soot yourself

DO'S

*Contact family members/loved ones to inform them of the fire

*Attend to frightened pets and ensure their safety and comfort

*Call all utility providers (electric, gas, water) to notify them of the fire

*Call homeowners insurance company to begin the claim process 

Fire Damage in Apartment Unit

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO responded immediately to an emergency call at an apartment complex in my territory.  It started from a pan left on the stove with the gas still on.  Tenant went next store for a visit and forgot what she had cooking on the stove.  All the smoke and the smell alerted the entire building of the fire.  After the local fire department came out and did their job we were allowed in the unit to start the clean up.  Needless to say in that short period of time there was much damage to all her personal items and also to the walls, floors and carpets.  We came in with all the necessary equipment to clean up and also to try to salvage her personal contents.  Cleaning contents is such a tedious procedure but by the time our crew had completed the clean up, much of her personal property was salvaged.  She was so very happy to return to her apartment especially with the bulk of her personal belongings.  Another job well done by our crew!

Holiday Season cooking

3/29/2018 (Permalink)

Now that this holiday weekend is approaching we all want to gather for wonderful food, drink and time with our families.  It is also a time when wonderful meals are prepared on the outside grill (weather permitting) and also the standard stove and oven.  Just a word of caution while preparing these wonderful meals.  This is a time when SERVPRO experiences many emergency calls for kitchen fires.  Please do not leave the stove unattended and make sure all those wonderful dishes do not burn and cause smoke damage and worst of all a fire. Please be extra cautious.  If you do have an emergency and require SERVPRO please do not hesitate to call us immediately and we will be there to resolve your dilemma.  Enjoy your day!

The Holiday Season

12/4/2017 (Permalink)

Now that the Holiday is quickly approaching SERVPRO would like to put out a word or two of caution.  The greatest number of fires over this season are caused by Christmas tree fires and over loaded extension cords.  If you do purchase a live tree please make sure it is amply watered.  Another concern is that your pets may be extra curious and want to attack the tree or chew on the lights and cords.  Please take extra caution with all pets for their safety and your own.  Please also be careful of lit candles.  Although they are quite beautiful they are a danger if not watched closely.  This is also true of your fireplace.  Please be very careful of the falling ash that may ignite quickly.  Taking all this into consideration SERVPRO wishes everyone a Joyous Holiday.

Northern California Fires

10/13/2017 (Permalink)

Since I have family in that area these fires are extremely personal to me and our family here on the East Coast.  Watching the news and being 3000 miles away gives you a total feeling of helplessness. Lives were lost and there are many families still missing.  Homes were destroyed not to mention the beautiful vineyards that produced such wonderful grapes and wine.  We can only hope that these fires will end soon and people can begin putting their lives back together.  Thank God my family there is safe with only smoke and ash on their property.  The air there has gone from very unhealthy to unhealthy.  Hopefully that will change soon and all will be able to enjoy the beautiful outdoors once again. Our prayers are with everyone there.  SERVPRO is always there to help everyone in need. 

Gas Explosion

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

Our production crew was really put to the test last week when they were called for this job.  A gas oven exploded.  It was located in a very large bakery warehouse. Aside from the normal debris that had to be restored by our SERVPRO crew there was raw dough and flour all over the warehouse.  It was on the rafters, the ceiling, all over the equipment and also on the massive floor that housed the huge warehouse.  It took time, patience and a good deal of work and sweat.  This explosion happened during one of our worst heat waves.  If it were 97 degrees outside it had to be 100 + in that warehouse.  Our crew did a great job cleaning up and restoring this facility to clean, working order.  Owner was very happy that he could start baking again!

Cleaning Contents

7/6/2017 (Permalink)

Being a Sales and Marketing Manager with SERVPRO I rarely get the opportunity to see first hand all that is involved in the cleaning and packing up of all the personal contents of one of our valued customers. I have always known how hard our crew works to get the job completed properly and as soon as possible. This particular family had major fire damage.  All their contents were packed up and sent to our warehouse for cleaning and restoration.  I watched each step of the process from unpacking contents to cleaning each individual item then packed up again to be delivered to the family after our major fire clean up.  There were precious memories included in this process from baby photos, family memories and all other items that were so important to this family. This process was tedious and painstaking but our crew made it look easy and were happy to do it.  This family is now back in their home after our fire restoration enjoying again all their memories.

SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY Smoke and Soot Cleanup

11/7/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY Home.

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE 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 – 
484-841-6669

What is a Puffback?

5/18/2016 (Permalink)

A furnace after a puff back occurred.

A puff back is a misfiring in the furnace that can send soot throughout your home, covering drapes, bedding, furniture, cabinets, walls, and everything in between. It requires expensive cleaning and restoration in addition to repairs on your heating system. If this happens to your home call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County we are here to help and handle any size loss from small to large.

Fire Prevention

2/17/2016 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire

-U.S. Fire Departments responded to an estimated annual average of 156,600 cooking-related fires between 2007-2011, resulting in 400 civilian deaths, 5,080 civilian injuries and $853 million in direct damage

-Two of every five home fires started in the kitchen

-Unattended cooking was a factor in one-third of reported home cooking fires

-Two-thirds of home cooking fires started with ignition of food or other cooking materials

Categories

Archived Posts