Danger of Chimney Fires

12/18/2023 (Permalink)

Did you know chimney fires account for over $120 million in damage every year? Although this fire can cause extensive damage, there are ways to prevent it from occurring. You must get your chimney cleaned by the professionals and have an annual inspection. A chimney fire is characterized by loud cracking and popping noises, a lot of dense smoke, and an intense hot smell.

Chimney fires can be explosive, noisy, and dramatic, undetectable until the next inspection, or anywhere in between. The explosive fires produce flames and dense smoke shooting from the top of the chimney and sounds similar to a low flying airplane. The undetectable chimney fires are slow-burning and do not get enough air to be visible, but the damage to the chimney  and nearby areas of the home is extensive.

If your home is damaged from a chimney fire, give SERVPRO® of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green, and Taylor Counties a call at 270-659-0067!

Prevent a Deadly Christmas tree fire!

12/18/2023 (Permalink)

Decking the Halls and getting into the Christmas Spirit? Christmas trees are at the forefront of many household annual traditions and for some who neglect a few simple tips can lead to tragic consequences. Sadly, Fire departments across the country respond to deadly Christmas tree fires during the holiday season each year.  One in every 31 Christmas tree fires is deadly, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The association says electrical failures and malfunctions caused 30 percent of Christmas tree fires.

The NFPA recommend the following safety tips: 
• Make sure string lights have no loose connections, cracked lamps or frayed cords.
• Use only a single extension cord that can reach your home's outlet without being too long and being tangled.
• Use UL-approved lights and cords.
• Make sure lights are off when you go out and before you turn in for the night.
• Make sure all outdoor light connectors are away from metal rain gutters and off the ground.
• Never use candles to light or decorate a tree.
• To lessen the chance of a fire hazard, purchase a freshly cut tree.
• Make sure to keep your tree at least three feet away from any heat source.
• Water the tree every day, and remove it from your home after Christmas or once it becomes dry. 
• Don't burn Christmas tree branches or wrapping paper in your fireplace.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that could burn. 

Danger of Candles

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

Candles are an awesome way to light up, add nice decor, or make a home smell like fresh flowers. However, according to the NFPA, from 2014-2018, there were an estimated 7,610 house fires that were started by candles per year that caused an annual average of 81 deaths, 677 injuries, and $278 million in property damage. Save your home with some of these alternatives!

Flame-less candles

For those who just want the aesthetic of a candle and no scent, flame-less candles are a great option! They are typically battery-operated and give the same flame-like feature as real candles.

Wax warmer

Wax warmers are a great alternative because you can get that amazing scent that comes from real candles without the hazard. Warmers are typically either battery or outlet operated to melt the wax.

Diffuser

Calling all of our essential oil fans, this one is for you! With hundreds of combinations to try, diffusers are a great option for the whole house.

Stick diffusers

The most low maintenance option is a stick diffuser. Put your scent in the vase and let the sticks do the work.

If you still plan to opt for a candle, be sure to trim the wick before each use to minimize sparking, place the candle where it can’t fall or be knocked over, and always blow out the candle anytime you leave the room or plan to leave the home.

SERVPRO is a fan of diffusers!

Space Heater Safety Tips

2/6/2022 (Permalink)

With Winter in full swing, many of us are using space heaters to keep ourselves warm. Whether it is at work or at home, space heaters are a great way to stay toasty when the temperatures drop.

When using a space heater however, it is important to follow best safety practices to prevent a fire. Space heaters are perfectly safe, when used properly. Use the tips below and keep your home and office warm and safe, this winter.

• Leave the heater on level floor, don’t place on carpet - it can overheat and start a fire.
• Do not use in bathroom, unless it is designed for it - moisture can damage the heater.
• Keep three feet away from flammable materials and out of the way of children and pets.
• Should always be plugged directly into wall outlet, don’t use with extension cord because it can cause overheating.
• Don’t leave heater unattended, make sure to unplug when not in use.
• Never sleep with a space heater on.
• Install smoke alarms on every floor.

If your space heater shows signs of wear such as broken cords, power fluctuations, or inconsistent temperature, immediately replace. An old space heater can malfunction and start a fire or overheat and leave an odor/smoke smell in the air. Never overuse a space heater and if you smell burning, immediately unplug and discontinue use.

When dealing with frigid temperatures, space heaters are a quick solution to help fight the cold. Using them safely will keep you warm and your office or home safe this winter.

The Danger of Candle Fires

2/6/2022 (Permalink)

Candles are a great way to decorate your home or to add your favorite scent to the room, but they could also be a major fire hazard.  Depending on where they are placed they can accidentally be knocked over. It’s also very easy to forget about lit candles if they are in rooms where you can’t keep an eye on them, which could then lead to a fire.  

There are lots of candle alternatives in the market today that can help with your decorating and lighting needs for your home, and will help get rid of the risk of fire.  

• Battery operated candles.  There are so many different options out there with battery operated candles.  They can range in sizes from tea lights to large pillar candles, come scented and non scented, flicker like a real candle, and some are even on timers to automatically turn on at the same time everyday.  Battery operated candles also come in a variety of colors to fit all your decor needs.

• Candle warmers.  Choose from electric bases or larger lamp-style models that are designed to accommodate traditional wax candles.  These will warm the wax and help diffuse the fragrance without actually lighting the candle.

• Reed diffusers.  Placing reeds in oil is a great way to spread a scent throughout your home without having to rely on an open flame or even a battery operated device 

Candles are beautiful and can create such warmth and atmosphere to a home, but can also be very dangerous if not attended to properly.  These candle alternatives are great for everyday use in common rooms like kitchens and bathrooms where candles are normally found.  

Contents Restoration After Fire Damage

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house, but also your belongings. SERVPRO® understands your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings are the very things that make a house a home.

SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items can be restored to pre-fire condition. We'll use several methods to clean your contents, including:

Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.

Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.

Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.

Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.

Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.

Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

Contact us today at (270) 659-0067 for more information!

Don’t Forget P.A.S.S. When Using a Fire Extinguisher

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

The National Fire Protection Association recommends the following when operating a fire extinguisher.

Remember the word PASS:

• Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism.
• Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

For your home, select a multi-purpose extinguisher (can be used on all types of home fires) that is large enough to put out a small fire, but not so heavy as to be difficult to handle.

Be sure to read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher and become familiar with its parts and operation before a fire breaks out. Local fire departments or fire equipment distributors often offer hands-on fire extinguisher trainings.

Install fire extinguishers close to an exit and keep your back to a clear exit when you use the device so you can make an easy escape if the fire cannot be controlled. If the room fills with smoke, leave immediately.

Prevent Smoke and Fire Damage

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties our #1 priority is our customers safety. Our goal is always to limit damage and to educate you on how to PREVENT damage from happening to your business or home.

Test Every Smoke Alarm

This is the simplest way to prevent fire damage from quickly spreading. Take the time to press the “Test” button on the side of the device and if it is weak, so ahead and change the batteries.

Keep Your Stove and Oven Clean

When there are built up food particles, they can quickly catch fire if they get warm enough. Keeping your area free and clear is an easy way to prevent any accidents.

Check Your Dryer

It is important to clean your lint trap in your dryer EVERY TIME you use it! It is also a good idea to get it regularly inspected for issues and to never leave your dryer running when you leave the home.

Maintain All Cords

Frayed cords can cause a huge fire hazard if left unattended. As you plug something in, always take time to quickly look the cord over and make sure it does not have any wear and tear.

Properly Store Flammable Products

Products that could POSSIBLY combust (example: hairspray, shaving cream) should be kept away from any type of heat source and in a cool area.

Fireplace Safety

Always stay in the room when a fireplace is on, and make sure there is a door to prevent any flames from getting thrown onto the flammable flooring.

Keep A Working Fire Extinguisher Around

This is your best defense against a fire break out. Every room that has potential threats should have one, such as the kitchen. Every family member of age should also know how to use one.

If you have any questions or concerns, give our office a call at 270-659-0067!

Space Heater Safety

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

Space Heater Safety

Have you ever had a space heater burn out? There are times when this happens that it can cause smoke or even fire damage in the space it is in. Here are five tips to help avoid this from happening!

1. Check Safety Features Before Purchase

Most models include a sturdy cord, a GFCI plug and an automatic safety shutoff feature. While most heats made in recent years have these features, double check that they are on the model you are purchasing.

2. Keep Children and Pets Away

Children and pets can easily be burned by the heater, and they can also easily knock the heater over and cause issues. You can help this by purchasing a safety screen that will set up a three-foot barrier around the device.

3. Keep Heater Level

Keeping the heater on a level surface can help prevent it from tipping over and burning the area or items around it. It is also safest to use heaters on non-flammable surfaces like concrete, stone or tile.

4. Keep away from Flammable Materials

This includes desks, rugs, books and curtains.

5. Never Leave a Heater Unattended

Having someone always near a running heater cuts down the possibility that it will tip over and cause a fire.

If your unit does cause a fire or any smoke damage, give SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties a call!

Fire Safety Tips - Home and Business

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that 50% of businesses never reopen after a disaster strikes?

That is a huge amount! At SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties, we are working to make that number go down as much as possible.

With it being the cold, winter months, there are many more fire hazards being used to heat both homes and businesses. Make sure your business does not become a statistic, and make plans against fire damage now. Here are 6 ways to help protect your business:

1. Have fire extinguishers readily available and check them regularly
2. Install automatic sprinklers or a fire suppression system
3. Regularly check and clean the equipment used in your business
4. Reduce useless clutter
5. Have an exit plan for all employees
6. Maintain outdoor areas against being vulnerable against wildfires (if applicable)

Fire Safety 101 – Fire Pits

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Safety 101 – Fire Pits

Especially during the fall and winter months, fire pits are often used for social events, along with cooking out hotdogs and smores! Before you throw your first party though, remember these tips how to keep the occasion safe for everyone in attendance.

• When purchasing or building a fire pit, take into consideration the size of the area. A fire pit should be at least 10 feet away from any structure, or other items that could catch on fire easily. This can include trees, fences, smaller buildings, phone or power lines, and more. They should also be kept at least 25 feet away from muti-residence buildings, such as apartment buildings.

• Make sure seating is large enough to be comfortable and well ventilated.

• Check wind direction before lighting any type of flame.

• Do not use flammable liquids to light or relight the flame.

• When lighting a fire, use a lighter to ignite a few pieces of paper and small pile of sticks. As this catches fire, add larger sticks and DRY logs.

• Using a fire pit screen will prevent embers from leaving the controlled area.

• Do not wear flammable materials while tending the fire, or any loose clothing.

• Always have someone tending the fire, and make sure children and pets are kept away from the flames.

• Keep water nearby in case of emergency.

• Before leaving the fire pit, make sure that the ashes are completely put out, and there are no more embers remaining.

For more information on this topic, visit Allstate’s website: www.allstate.com/blog/considering-backyard-fire-pit/

Winter Fire Prevention

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

Winter Fire Prevention

We are quickly approaching the time of year when the amount of house fires spike: December, January, and February. While you may think that you are doing all you can to prevent a house fire, there are many different types of fire hazards many that you may not even realize are a threat!

1. Your Kitchen-

One of the quickest ways a fire can get started is by leaving a stove top or oven unattended. There are many items around the kitchen that can catch on fire, and your attention is key when preventing anything from happening!

2. Small Kitchen Appliances-

These appliances are easy to overlook, and keep plugged in at all times, but it is important to unplug after each use. If accidently left on, they could catch items on the counter on fire.

3. Candles-

Candles should never be left unattended. It is best practice to blow them out when you leave the room or may go to sleep.

4. Matches and Lighters –

Store these items up high, where children cannot reach.

5. Fireplace Wood-

Do not burn trash inside your home. Only burn dry, seasoned wood.

If you do experience any fire or smoke issues this winter season, give the professionals a call at 270-659-0067!

September: National Preparedness Month - Week #4

9/20/2020 (Permalink)

September: National Preparedness Month, Week #4

Week #4 – September 20^th-26^th

Goal: Teach Youth About Preparedness

When you have children in the house, it is very important to make sure they know what to do in an emergency. When you have discussed emergencies and what to do, children are likely to be a little scared of the thought of what could come. One of the best ways to help ease their nerves is to make sure they are educated on what to do, and they know the plans that you have put in place. This also helps avoid them freezing up during an emergency and helps them think more clearly.

This week, make time for each child in your household to work through some activities on www.ready.gov/kids. This program covers all ages, from young kids to teenagers. For young children, there are games they can play to learn and become comfortable. For teenagers, it outlines what they can do to become more prepared and involved with the community.

There are also resources for families on what you can do together, along with what teachers can do to help their students be more prepared at home.

Thank you for following along for this year’s National Preparedness Month!

September: National Preparedness Month - Week #2

9/6/2020 (Permalink)

September: National Preparedness Month

Week #2 – September 6^th-12^th

Goal: Build A Kit

It is now time to set yourself up for success if you are not able to obtain supplies for a few days during a disaster! Last week we looked at supplies you will need for each specific member of your family. This week, we want to add to that list, and build a kit that can help you be independent for at least 3 days.

Before you begin, start with how you will store these items. Putting them in airtight bags, then placing those bags in easy to move containers/duffel bags is the way to go. This way, no matter what happens, your supplies are safe and easy to move.

Basic Kit Items:

• Water
• Food
• Battery operated radio or weather radio (with extra batteries)
• Flashlights (with extra batteries)
• First aid kit
• Whistle
• Dust masks
• Plastic sheeting & duct tape
• Wipes, trash bags and plastic ties
• Wrench & pliers
• Manual can opener
• Local map
• Cell phone chargers & backup battery

Additional items to consider:

• Cloth face coverings
• Soap/hand sanitizer/wipes
• Prescription & over the counter medication
• Contact lens solution
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes & diaper rash cream
• Pet food & water
• Cash
• Copies of important family document such as: ID cards, bank account records, and insurance policies. These should be stored in a waterproof container or electronically.
• Sleeping bag or blankets for each person
• Complete change of clothing for each person
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches (in waterproof container)
• Personal hygiene items
• Paper products
• Activities for any children

Maintaining Your Home Kit:

Now that your kit is stocked and ready, you cannot simply forget about it. You now need to make sure your kit is kept in a cool, dry place, food items are stored in tightly closed plastic or metal containers, expired items are replaced frequently, and your families changing needs are always reflected in your kit.

Kit Storage Locations:

Your Home Kit should be located near an exit, and be easy to grab and go. Make sure everyone in the home knows where it is kept.

Your Work Kit should be packed to prepare you to shelter in place for at least 24 hours. It is also important to have a comfortable pair of walking shoes in this kit, as you may not be wearing comfortable shoes at work when an emergency takes place.

Your Car Kit should always be in your car and stocked up. This includes jumper cables, flares or reflective triangles, ice scraper, cell phone charger, blanket, map and cat litter or sand (to help you gain traction if stuck).

Join us next week on the blog for more information on how to prepare your family for a disaster!

Grilling Safety Tips

4/5/2020 (Permalink)

It is finally springtime! Now that the weather is becoming prettier, many families are spending more time outdoors, and are starting to fire up their grills after a long, wet winter. Here are some ways that you can make sure your grill is safe against any mishaps these spring and summer seasons!

• Grill away from any structure.
• Make sure your grill is on a stable surface.
• Keep your grill clean.
• Check for propane leaks.
• If the flame goes out, wait five minutes before relighting.
• Keep an eye on what is going on around the grill.
• Be cautious when using a charcoal starter fluid.
• Do not wear loose clothing or clothing that can dangle into the flames.
• Be prepared to put out a fire if the need arises.

Implementing these tactics are a great way to reduce the chance of having major issues with your grill throughout the grilling season!

March Theme of the Month

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

March Theme of the Month

With the world becoming increasingly more digital and online based, how we communicate has changed drastically over the years. SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties strives to keep up with the constant changes, and continue to serve our clients in the best, fastest ways possible. Some of the ways we do this is how we go the EXTRA mile to keep all parties involved in a claim informed of what is going on.

One of the ways we serve our agents and adjusters is by sending daily job notes about what is going on during their job. This way, we are constantly communicating what is going well, and what still needs to be worked on at a job site.

For our clients, we have one of our Project Coordinators call each client daily, to ensure that there are no questions going unanswered, and to let them know what is going on within their home.

At the end of each job we do, we then have a COS (certificate of satisfaction) signed, and we get rated on how well we do. As a company, we take these ratings seriously, and want every person to feel confident enough to give us 10/10!

Pet Fire Safety

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Pet Fire Safety

While home fires are the most common disaster in the United States, they are also the most preventable. There are many reasons why a fire could start, but did you know that over 1,000 home fires a year are caused by a family pet?

While you may not have thought about this before, there are steps you can take to avoid issues arising:

Extinguish Open Flames- Pets are curious and will investigate cooking appliances and fires in your home. Do not leave an open flame with your pets near, and make sure to double check you have put out a flame before leaving your home.

Invest in Flameless Candles- Instead of a flame, these candles have a bulb. This takes the danger out of a curious nose, or a tail getting into the flame.

Secure Young Pets- When there is a flame or a hot surface, keep animals confined and away from the danger. You can do this in a crate, or even behind a baby gate.

Helping Firefighters:

Keep pets near entrances of the home, where firefighters can easily grab them in case of an emergency. Also, always have their leash near the house entrance.

Attach a “pet alert” sign to your front window with the number of pets inside. This can help the firefighters get in and out quickly, and efficiently.

Learn more at: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/pet-fire-safety.html

Emergency Wash for Fire Damage

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

When a fire is in your home, even if it is promptly put out, the smoke can quickly move room to room and cover a large area with smoke and soot. When this happens, your items can quickly become dirty and unusable until properly cleaned. This is often times hard for families where every room in the home has soot in it or smells like smoke, as they might not have enough clean clothes for the time it takes their items to be processed in out Contents Warehouse.

Noticing this need, SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties is now doing Emergency Washes to remove this issue.

When soft contents are brought to our warehouse, they are processed as the come in. So, when a new claim comes in, it may take a couple of days before they start the washing process. With an emergency wash, we have homeowners pick out some of their clothes/blankets/towels or any other items they need washed immediately, and we get them done ASAP. In certain instances, we have even had employees wash contents late into the night, so our clients can have their items as soon as possible.

While this is not always necessary, many times it is the best options for families who just need enough of their belongings cleaned to get through a week or two.

While we cannot rush wash an entire household of items, being able to quickly process the basic necessities puts our client’s minds at ease and takes some stress out of the situation. It also cuts down on costs to replace or buy new items until their contents have been fully returned.

December Theme of the Month

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

December Theme of the Month

With so many holidays celebrated this month, our theme of the month during December was focused on being safe during the holidays. With this time of year being so busy, it is easy for things to slip through the cracks, and we need to remember to take precautions against disasters.

With the number of houses fires this time of year skyrocketing, one of the biggest ways you can prevent a disaster this season is making sure you are continually watering your live Christmas Tree. Follow this link below that shows how quickly your tree can go up in flames when not properly watered:

https://interestingengineering.com/video/this-video-shows-how-your-dry-christmas-tree-can-cause-a-deadly-house-fire

Another thing you can do is before putting your décor items up this year, inspect cords for any tears, breaks or rips. Going ahead and tossing those items will ensure your families safety for next year!

We hope everyone had a great Holiday Season, and we are excited for what is to come in 2020!

November Theme of the Month

11/3/2019 (Permalink)

November Theme of the Month 

With the holidays right around the corner, this begins the time of year when families are spending more time in the kitchen. While most of the time SERVPRO is known for their water cleanup services, a great deal of our calls through the winter months are about different fire or smoke related accidents. When it comes to a claim or self-pay job involving fire, we are able to handle every aspect of what the home owner may need: board up, smoke & soot cleaning, demo, contents inventory and pack out, laundry, soft and hard contents cleaning, & reconstruction. We are able to take you from the beginning stages, all the way to the end. This holiday season let SERVPRO not only be your first call, but your ONLY call. We can handle the rest, and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Q: What is the #1 cause of domestic home fires?

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

A: COOKING!

Fall is the beginning of what many people in the restoration business call “Fire Season”. This is the time of year many people are turning on their fireplaces for the first time, building fires either inside or outside the home, and they are also cooking for large groups more often! Some tips to help keep your kitchen a safe environment without any smoke or fire issues include:

1. Always unplug any countertop appliances when not in use
2. Make sure to keep your stovetop clean and clear
3. Double check everything is off after cooking
4. Immediately wipe up dust or grease from your stove when you notice it
5. Never leave the kitchen while cooking
6. Do not wear loose clothing

It is important not only this time of year, but always, to be careful while using the kitchen. For more information visit: https://www.esfi.org/resource/home-cooking-fire-prevention-tips-619

October Theme of the Month

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

Ask your local marketing representative for a pink, Breast Cancer Awareness pen!

October Theme of the Month

Every October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month, SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties is focusing on raising awareness of this worthy cause, and also talking about prevention against problems in your home.

When you have a history of breast cancer, it if very important to do regular checkups, and screenings to prevent any problems from going unnoticed.

The same concept applies to your home or business. We have a “Property Screening” tool that is a free service for any of the local businesses in our area, called the Emergency Ready Profile. These profiles only take about an hour to complete, and you have a professional evaluating your property for potential issues.

This is also a great time of year to do a “policy checkup” on all of your properties or items that are insured. Double checking that you have enough coverage is very important in case any time of disaster strikes.

September Theme of the Month

9/6/2019 (Permalink)

#BeReady #PreparedNotScared

September Theme of the Month 

Do not leave your safety to chance. Plan ahead this September during National Preparedness Month! 

• Create an escape route from your home and business.  
• Sign up for local weather alerts to be sent to your phone.
• Put together an Emergency Contact List.
• SERVPRO also offers a free program for businesses called the Emergency Ready Profile. Contact Vicky Matthews for more information at 270-670-2575.
• Take the time to put together an Emergency Kit. Below are some items to add:

3 days’ worth of food, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, whistle, face masks, plastic gloves, wipes, can opener, flashlights, duct tape, garbage bags, extra medications, checks/cash, change of clothes, file of important docs, blankets, fire extinguisher, toilet paper, local map, full gas can, extra phone charger and extra pet supplies.

Removing Smoke Smell from a Vehicle

3/27/2019 (Permalink)

One thing that SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties can take care of is deodorizing items or things. We had an employee who had purchased a used car. After a couple of weeks, the “new car smell” wore off, and a smoke smell appeared. Being allergic to the smell of cigarette smoke, she was concerned about being in the car.

We used our ozone machine to help her deodorizer. Within a few hours, the smoke smell was completely out of her car, replaced by a neutral smell. A few weeks later, the car was back to smelling like normal. A year later, the smoke smell is still gone, and the employee has still had no issues with her allergies.

Many times, people are unaware of what all SERVPRO can do inhouse. If you ever have a question about if we can do something or not, give us a call at 270-659-0067 and we can have our team take a look at it!

Is it important to sleep with your doors closed at night?

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

Photos taken from the link below

One of the things that most parents want is to be able to hear their children during the night. While this is important, it is also important to think in terms if there is a fire during the night. Cold Springs Harbor Fire Department in New York recently posted some photos of two doors that had been through a fire: one was completely charred, the other was only burned around the edges. The charred door was open during a house fire, while the one that was almost perfect was closed the entire time.

While you might not think that closing doors can do very much, looking at this example, you can see how much it slowed down the path of the fire. Even if it bought you just a few minutes, that can be the difference between getting out unharmed or suffering from burns.

https://www.wltx.com/article/news/health/why-fire-departments-are-urging-you-to-sleep-with-your-bedroom-door-shut/67-d6445bfa-79d8-475b-9431-f87bb563d2c3?fbclid=IwAR3o-btNEboXL8Q0OXtDqG7EJrAI7SDPzhcvV7SdWz9Q4eBzdgmlviQ6XGI&jwsource=cl

Space Heater Safety

1/24/2019 (Permalink)

In the winter months, many people have a hard time keeping their homes or offices warm. Using space heaters have become increasingly popular over the years, and often times you see them being used incorrectly.

When using your space heater, pay attention to things like:

Is there anything flammable close by?

Can children or pets get to it?

Is there a “shut off” setting if it is tipped over?

Is it on a level surface?

Other things to be wary of is:

Never leave them on by themselves or use them overnight

NEVER use a stove or oven as a heater

Do not use in high traffic areas. The cord could cause a trip and if kicked, it can burn someone.

Check fire alarms every 6 months, just in case of accidents

Make sure you have a fire escape route from each room in the house

Frequently check the cord on your heater for damage or fraying

SERVPRO® Mission Statement

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Mission Statement:

To develop a team of quality people who focus on excellent service, fairness and mutual respect.

At SERVPRO, our mission is to provide top notch service, while being fair to both us and the customer. When you use our services, from the time we enter your home, from the time we leave, we want you to be at ease that your home or business is being well taken care of. This is why our staff is highly trained and vetted to make sure that we can create this atmosphere anytime we are around. SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties is always just a phone call away. With our 24/7 service hours, we always have a team available and ready to head your way.

Campbellsville Volunteer Fire Department Cook Out

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

On Tuesday, October 23^rd, SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties set up at the volunteer fire department in Campbellsville to grill out for all the local volunteers and air vac operators before one of their meetings. About 45 of these men and women attended the meeting, and SERVPRO did a small presentation over how we can assist these first responders when disasters strike.

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In the event that you are a victim of a home or business fire, don’t hesitate to call the professionals.  SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties is there for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We will answer the call and react when and where you need us to!

Call us today at 270- 659-0067 to request help and receive a free quote!

September - National Preparedness Month

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

September of each year is National Preparedness Month. This is the time of the year the Department of Homeland Security encourages home and business owners to prepare for future disasters. Some of the ways that they suggest doing this is by:

• Learn lifesaving skills- such as CPR and First Aid
• Check your insurance coverage policies- They may not cover hazards such as floods, earthquakes and tornadoes.
• Create an escape route
• Start an emergency fund
• Learn where gas and water shut offs are in your home
• Sign up for local weather alerts
• Make emergency bags for each family member
• Consider what to do with pets during an emergency
• Have a designated place for important documents
• Have emergency phone numbers saved in cell phones and posted near house phones

Taking time throughout the month of September to do some of these things could really help you and your family during an emergency.

Fire Prevention Week 2018

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Mark your Calendars! Starting October 7th through October 13th, SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green, and Taylor Counties will join the United States in Observing Fire Prevention Week.  This important week is the longest running public health observance according to the National Archives and Records Administration’s library dating back to 1925. This tradition and annual occasion was signed in a proclamation of recognition by the President of the United States.  This important week also commemorates the “Great Chicago Fire” of 1871.  This horrific event in history left over 100,000 people homeless and killed approximately 250 innocent victims.  This grisly fire was rumored to have started when a cow kicked over an oil lamp.

Don’t wait until October to check your smoke detectors.  See our Blog on “The importance of Smoke detectors.

In the event that you are a victim of a home or business fire, don’t hesitate to call the professionals.  SERVPRO is there for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  We will answer and react when you need us!

Call us today! 270- 659-0067 to request help!

http://www.SERVPROallenbarrenhartgreenandtaylorcounties.com/fnol

https://www.nfpa.org/fpw/index.html

Fire Escape Route for Homes

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

With fall and winter coming, this is the time of the year when people start using their fireplaces again and starting bonfires. While it is fun to use them, they also increase your risk of having a house fire. Take the time to make a home fire escape route for your family before the time comes you would need one. Here is a link to the National Fire Protection Association and some tips on creating a plan that is both effective and child friendly:

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Safety-in-the-home/Escape-planning

Educating yourself and your family is the first step in ensuring their safety in an emergency. Practicing this plan a couple of times is another way to make sure everyone in the home knows what to do. Another good tip would be to practice one time in the middle of the night, so you know your children are able to wake up and remember what to do.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/7/2018 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

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 Allen, Barren, Hart, Green, and Taylor Counties 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:

Different Types of Smoke

• 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 : 270-659-0067

2nd Annual Guns ‘N Hoses Blood Drive – Campbellsville, KY

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

Help support!

We are excited to announce we have scheduled our 2nd Annual Guns 'N Hoses Blood Drive! We will be holding it at First United Methodist Church in Campbellsville this year! It is always fun to witness the friendly rivalry between the police and fire departments. When you sign in, you choose a side: Police Department or Fire Department. Whoever brings the most donors wins a trophy and bragging rights! The Fire Department earned the trophy during the inaugural year, will the Police Department even the score this year? We will find out on June 26th, 2018 from 12-6PM! 

We will be grilling out hamburgers and hotdogs, be providing snacks, drinks and t-shirts for each donor! Stop by and help SAVE A LIFE! 

Below is a link to the frequently asked question's from the Red Cross: 
http://www.redcross.org/faq/

5th Annual Guns 'N Hoses Blood Drive - Glasgow, KY

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

Come support!

We are excited to announce we have scheduled our 5th Annual Guns 'N Hoses Blood Drive! With such a great turnout the past few years, we are holding it Glasgow First United Methodist Church, so we can accommodate even more donors. This event is always fun to take part in with the friendly rivalry between the police and fire departments! When you sign up to give blood, you choose a side: Police Department or Fire Department. Whoever has the most donors wins a trophy and bragging rights! The Police Department has won the competition the past 3 years straight. Will this be the year the fire department ends up on top? We will find out on June 22^nd, 2018 from 10AM-3PM!

We will be grilling out hamburgers and hotdogs, be providing snacks, drinks and t-shirts for each donor! Stop by and help SAVE A LIFE!

Below is a link to the frequently asked question's from the Red Cross:

http://www.redcross.org/faq/

Top causes of Fire

2/4/2018 (Permalink)

Every year catastrophic fires take away our homes, our possessions, and loved ones that we can not replace. The National Fire Protection Association provides lots of education for us to arm ourselves to prevent fires. According to the NFPA the top causes of fire are in the home:

• Cooking equipment is the leading cause of home structure fires and home fire injuries.
  
  
• Smoking is the leading cause of civilian home fire deaths.
  
  
• Heating equipment is the second most common cause of home fire fatalities.

We want you to be armed with information but in the event you fall victim to a house fire don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO. Are fire specialist will be there with you every step of the way. Our specialist will strive to save precious heirlooms and restore your home back to the way it was.

Request help online:
http://www.SERVPROallenbarrenhartgreenandtaylorcounties.com/fnol

For additional helpful information, visit NFPA-
https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire/Cooking

Fire Prevention Week starting October 8th!

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

National Fire Protection Associaton

During the week of October 8 thru October 14, 2017 the United States and Canada observe Fire Prevention week. Back in 1925, President Calvin Coolidge made the 1st Presidential proclamation of Fire Prevention Week. The goal for this week of awareness is to educate the public to take precautions in preventing potentially harmful and destructive fires and how we can survive. It is getting in front of a disaster that fire can cause and the processes that can reduce emergencies and damage caused by fire.

In the event that your a victim of a home fire, don’t hesitate to call the professionals.  SERVPRO is there for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  We will answer and react when you need us!
Call us today! 270- 659-0067

Request Help!
http://www.SERVPROallenbarrenhartgreenandtaylorcounties.com/fnol

National Fire Protection Association
http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/resources/education-programs/community-tool-kits/keeping-your-community-safe-and-warm

The importance of Smoke Alarms

8/18/2017 (Permalink)

The importance of Smoke Alarms

In the event of a deadly home fire, a working smoke alarm will significantly increase your chance of survival. Follow these tips to insure your prepared-

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, all throughout the home.  Upstairs, downstairs, basements.  Make sure you have inside and outside of bedrooms.
• Replace the entire smoke alarm every 8-10 years.
• test your batteries monthly
• once a year replace batteries in smoke detectors that are battery-powered and hard wired smoke alarms. (the only exception are detectors that contain 10 year lithium batteries.)
• Install both ionization AND photoelectric smoke alarms, OR dual sensor smoke alarms, which contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors.

There will be times that you may be cooking something that puts off smoke.  Even though its tempting, never disable your smoke alarm.  That one time could be a costly mistake.  Never ignore the sound.  Always react promptly until you ultimately know that your safe and there is not a fire.  In the event you are put in that situation, make sure you are safe and leave the building.  Your life is more valuable then the contents inside. 

When fire impacts your home or place of business, call on the professionals to get the job done. You don't have to wait, you can reach a team member any time of the day or night. We are on standby for you  24/7, 365 days a year! We can guarantee that anytime you call, you will get a SERVPRO professional on the line to help.

Allen, Barren, Hart, Green, and TaylorCounties

Call Us Today : 270-659-0067

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

Handling Smoke Damage after a Fire

8/17/2017 (Permalink)

If you are the victim of a house fire, you will be very anxious to clean your home and all the contents that are salvageable.  It is always recommended to take the time to seek the professional and gain their advice. If you don’t, you could be wasting your time and efforts all the while creating further damage.  The very 1st thing you should do is contact your insurance agency immediately once its safe and the fire is completely out.  If your renting your home contact the homeowner next so you can both go over the amount of damage.  Many times your insurance agent may recommend a professional fire restorer who can give you hints to prevent additional damage and help assess what items can or can not be refurbished.  They will provide you an estimate and all available services that are available to thoroughly clean and deodorize your home. In some cases the service may seem expensive but many times these costs will be dramatically less then replacing damaged furnishings and floors.  In the aftermath, you may find items that have been passed down and have an irreplaceable value that can be saved. 

When a fire impacts your home or place of business, call on the professionals to get the job done.  You don’t have to wait, you can reach a team member any time of the day or night.  24/7, 365 days a year we guarantee that anytime you call, you will get a SERVPRO professional on the line to help.

Don't hesitate, Call us today!  270-659-0067