When Should I Clean My Dryer Vent?

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

Most folks know that they must clean out the lint filter in their clothes dryer after each use. This will help to prevent a dryer fire. Use your clean hand or a soft cloth to remove all of the lint from the lint filter. To ensure that your dryer never causes a lint fire in your home in Miami Shores, FL, the dryer vent must also be cleaned out every six months.

How to Clean Out the Dryer Vent and Exhaust Hose

A little preventive maintenance will help to prevent a lint fire. The steps include:

Unplug the dryer - In the back of the dryer you will find the power cord. Make sure to unplug this from the outlet.

Detach the exhaust hose - First, the outer clamp will need to be loosened, either by squeezing the clamp or by using a screwdriver on the bolt. Once the clamp is loosened you can detach the hose from the dryer.

Clean out the exhaust hose - Remove all lint from the hose using a soft cleaning brush. You can also suck out the lint using the attachment on your vacuum.

Clean the wall vent - Using a vent cleaning kit that can be found at your local hardware store, clean out the wall vent. The kit will include a brush extension that can be carefully fed into the vent. Rotate the brush to remove the lint. It may take several tries before all of the lint has been removed.

Reattach the exhaust hose - Make sure the hose is securely attached to the dryer and tighten the clamp.

Plug the dryer back in - Make sure no hot air comes out of the vent. If it does, you need to check the clamp to ensure it is tightened properly.

Cleaning out your dryer’s exhaust hose and the vent will not only keep your dryer running longer and more efficiently, but it will also help to prevent a dangerous lint fire.

3 Details of Fire Escape Your Kids Need To Know

7/23/2022 (Permalink)

Prepare your kids for the event of a home fire.

3 Details of Fire Escape Your Kids Need To Know

Talking with your kids about fire safety might seem a little nerve-racking, but having the right information is crucial to ensuring kids' safety. Clear communication about your fire escape plan helps the whole family to be prepared. Even if you've already covered the basics of escaping a home fire in Biscayne Park, FL, with your children, there are a few details that you may want to revisit and practice during your next fire safety review.

1. Stay Low
There are two important scenarios during which your kids will need to remember to stay low when escaping a house fire:

• Getting out of bed: Have your kids practice safely rolling out of their beds onto the floor. Because heat rises, they should avoid sitting up to get out of bed during a fire.
• Moving through the house: Practice crawling on hands and knees through your home to your fire exits. Also practice crawling with the belly to the ground, in the case of extreme heat.
  
  

2. Don't Hide
It is important to remind children to never hide during a fire. The impulse to hide in the midst of a crisis is understandable, but it compromises kids' safety by making it harder for firefighters to find them. If they are unable to safely exit the home, they should stay put where they can be found quickly, such as lying on the floor next to their bed.

3. Pick a Meeting Spot
Talk ahead of time about where you will meet after exiting your home. Choose a spot that is easy to get to but a safe distance from the house. Have your children practice meeting there so they will remember if the time comes.

Practicing these steps helps to secure your kids' safety. In the event of a fire, everybody reaching safety and gathering at your meeting place enables you to focus on the next steps. These include finding a safe place to stay while you have a fire damage assessment done on your home. Clear communication with your children is key to both preparing for the event of a home fire and navigating any changes afterward.

3 Ways Renters Insurance Helps After a Fire

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

After a fire, here are three ways renters insurance might help.

A fire can quickly come out of nowhere and devastate your life and home. You might think you don't need to get insurance when you're renting because the homeowner's policy will cover everything in your Bal Harbour, FL, home. However, their policy will cover the structure, not you and your things. Here are three ways renters insurance will help you after a fire. 

1. Fire Damage to Personal Belongings

Whether from the flame, smoke, or fire control methods, you'll find that your belongings suffer a lot of damage after a fire. Before you begin throwing anything away, it's essential to take pictures and keep a list of everything damaged in the fire. Your insurance company will work with you to reimburse you for everything up to your coverage limits. The insurance company will pay you the cost it would take to replace the item now, instead of how much you paid for it when you originally purchased it. 

2. Liability for Damage to Others

Fires can quickly spread, causing damage to the buildings and people around you. If someone is hurt or their property gets damaged by fire from the property you lived in, your renter's insurance policy can help cover their expenses. The liability insurance will cover their medical costs and the expense of replacing any of their belongings that the fire destroyed. 

3. Restoration Services

Even if the fire didn't burn something, that doesn't mean the item is still in usable condition. Smoke and soot can find their way into tiny crevices and cause irreparable damage if not quickly and adequately addressed. Your insurance policy will cover the cost of fire restoration services to clean and restore your items to like new, which can often be most cost-affordable than replacing them. 
Even a small fire can ravage your life and your savings account. However, you'll have comfort knowing that you have less to worry about when you have renters insurance. 

How To Extinguish a Grease Fire at Home

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

How To Put Out A Grease Fire In Your Home

Nothing interrupts the flow of life in North Miami Beach, FL, more than a home fire. A blaze can start from many different causes, but one of the hardest to control is a grease-based fire. Your first impulse when fire is staring you in the face is to douse the flames with water. In the event that grease catches fire, you absolutely must not put water on the fire. It will cause it to splatter and spread. So what can you do to put out a grease fire safely?

Steps To Put out a Grease-based Fire

1. Turn off or unplug heat source if possible (oven, burner, etc.)
2. Pour generous amounts of baking soda over the fire
3. Cover to smother the flames using a non-flammable item such as a large pot or lid
4. If you cannot extinguish it immediately, get out of the house and call 911 for help
5. Again, NEVER put water on a grease fire

Prevention is Your Best Bet

Prevention is also extremely important. Use extra care in the kitchen to keep your burners clean during cooking and avoid letting fats and oils over heat. Take care to keep combustible items away from the cooktop and take care when leaning over pans and burners. Broiling in the oven or baking foods that spatter or drip grease onto heating elements can also be a hazard. Never leave the oven unattended when broiling.

A grease fire can be difficult to battle and can cause a lot of damage. If this happens, you will need the help of professional restoration services in North Miami Beach, FL, to help with the fire cleanup. Greasy residue and soot is likely to have deposited itself on walls, cabinets, furniture and other surfaces and will require special handling to remove it completely. The odor from burnt grease is particularly putrid as well, and may require expert help to get rid of it.

Getting Rid of Offensive Microwave Odors

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Getting Rid of Harmful Microwave Smells

If you are like most residents of North Miami Beach, FL, you use your microwave every day. As you probably know, though, dirty microwaves can make your food taste terrible. You don’t have to put up with a smoke smell or other unpleasant odors. In fact, there are a variety of ways to effectively clean one of the most important appliances in your kitchen. Here are four of them.

1. Grab Some Vinegar

Harsh chemicals are often problematic. Fortunately, you don’t have to rely on them. Professional chefs have used vinegar to clean microwaves for years. Microwaving a solution that includes water and a tablespoon of white vinegar usually loosens cooked-on food.

2. Cut a Lemon

Like vinegar, lemon juice is an effective way of removing a smoke smell. Simply cut a lemon in half, and place both sides inside your appliance with a tablespoon of water. Then, microwave the lemon for five minutes to remove odors and food particles. A quick wipe down completes the cleaning process.

3. Use Some Dish Soap

Dish soap doesn’t only clean your silverware, plates and bowls. It is also a good cleaner for microwaves. After using steam to loosen baked-on food, wipe the appliance’s insides with a mild dish soap to banish grease. Be careful to thoroughly rinse all surfaces, though, as residue can adversely affect the taste of cooked food.

4. Find a Restoration Service

Microwaves can be expensive. If your high-end appliance’s contamination is the result of a kitchen fire or other home disaster, you may need to rely on a professional restoration service in North Miami Beach, FL, to completely remove unwanted odors.

With a bit of effort, you can likely get rid of the offensive smoke smell coming from the microwaves in your home. While routine cleaning is important, even disastrous microwaves are usually salvageable. By focusing on both the appliance and its vent grill, you know you are cooking in an odor-free appliance.

Having a Plan Can Save Your Life

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

Having A Strategy In Place Can Save Your Life.

You might think that the fresh batteries in your smoke detectors are enough to keep you and your family safe in the event of a fire. While working smoke detectors and batteries certainly are a must, without a fire escape plan, how will you and your loved ones know what to do when the smoke detectors go off? If disaster strikes, you need a plan you can set in motion immediately. There’s an old saying that schoolteachers like to use: If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. In the event of an emergency, you don’t want to have to think on your feet; instead, you want to be able to take action – and fast.

Creating a Plan

According to the American Red Cross, the best way to protect yourself and your family is to create your very own emergency escape plan, and to practice it regularly. Here are the key elements of this kind of plan:

• If your home includes bedrooms above ground level, think about purchasing escape ladders for these rooms. Ladders can be kept close to the window.
• Make sure everyone in your home knows more than one escape route from each room in the house.
• Teach your littlest family members to dial 9-1-1 in case of smoke or fire.
• Choose a meetup spot outside, and let everyone know where it’s located.
• Fire drills are not just for schools – practice your own fire escape plan until you complete the drill in two minutes or less.
• Rehearse your plan using realistic conditions, like practicing in the middle of the night and using a low crawl to help minimize possible smoke.

Comfort in Planning

Being prepared can make all the difference in the world in the event of a fire. However, having a plan won’t stop a fire from starting. If fire does strike your Bal Harbour, FL, home, you can rely on fire restoration professionals to help you clean up. In the meantime, you can feel confident that the creation and practice of your family’s fire escape plan will reduce the risk of harm to you and your family if you’re the victims of a house fire.

Teaching Your Kids How To Prevent and Escape a Home Fire

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

Teaching Your Children How To Avoid And Escape A House Fire Is Essential.

If a home fire in Miami Shores, FL, occurs, the first thing you should do is escape the building. It’s very important to teach your children how to evacuate the house when a fire happens. Kids safety is essential, and here are a few things you can do to prepare your children for the worst scenario.

Teach Them How To Prevent Fires

Children are curious. They can also get bored very easily. Teach your kids the importance of fire safety so that they don’t accidentally create a fire while experimenting with a match or candle. A few things you might include in your fire safety conversation can include:

• Keep paper, books, and other flammable items away from heaters, candles, and stoves.
• Blow out all candles before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Never leave the stove unattended while cooking.

Kids safety is all about informing and teaching your children so that they can be aware of dangerous situations.

Teach Them a Fire Escape Plan

Your kids may not know that heat rises. When in a fire, the temperatures get hotter and hotter at the top. Teach your children the two ways to fire crawl.

The most common crawl is on your hands and knees. Drop to your forearms and keep your head down, like a dog sniffing the ground. The second crawl is used when the temperature is too hot to have your body in the air. Press your legs to the floor and move like a snake.

Kids safety encompasses a wide range of topics. Another way to prepare your children for a fire is to teach them what happens to your home after it is destroyed by the flames. Although a fire can be scary for kids, you can teach them that the home and property can be rebuilt and restored. By teaching them how to prevent hazards and escape fires, your children can be safer and calmer during a home fire.

How To Find a Good Fire Restoration Company

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

Where Can I Find a Reputable Fire Restoration Company?

If your North Miami, FL, business were to experience a devastating fire, would you know who to call for help? While the first number to call would be the fire department, your next call should be to a fire damage restoration company. Once the fire is put out, you want to act quickly to stop the fire damage from spreading. How do you know which restoration company to use? Here are five things to look for in a reputable company.

1. Emergency Services
A commercial fire never seems to happen at a convenient time. Fires seem to start after hours or on weekends. One of the most important qualities to look for in a restoration company is emergency services. Because you’ll need to act quickly to save your building and belongings from smoke damage, you’ll want a restoration company to come ASAP.

2. Assessment
The next step is a thorough inspection and assessment. A reputable company will check every area of your building to develop a solid action plan. They will want to know the extent of fire damage to determine the next best steps.

3. Boarding and Tarping Services
Preventing further damage is the next step. Water damage typically accompanies fire damage due to pipes bursting or fire department hoses. Roofs should be tarped and broken windows and doors should be boarded up to maintain the security of the building and prevent additional damage.

4. Cleaning
Once the building is secure and further damage has been stopped, fire damage restoration begins. Thoroughly removing water, smoke, and soot from the building should be the top priority. A professional company will have the skills, knowledge, and equipment for systematic smoke cleanup.

5. Restoring
A good restoration company will want to restore as many of your belongings as possible. Restoring is typically cheaper than replacing; therefore, they should try and clean your belongings if possible. Some items may need to be replaced, such as drywall and carpet.
A dependable fire damage restoration company should be available 24/7 to help with your emergency. Look for the additional processes mentioned above to find a reputable company.

How to Make a Home Fire Escape Plan

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

Create Your Home Fire Escape Plan

No one in Sunny Isles, FL wants to experience the devastation of a house fire, but in order to keep your family safe, you need to put a plan in place should once occur. Experts recommend working with your family to create a fire escape plan and practicing it at least twice a year so that everyone knows what to do. Here are some ideas for what your plan should include.

1. How to Get of the Rooms

Every household member should know at least two ways to escape each room in the home. If the fire prevents someone from leaving through the door, is there a window to crawl out of? Teach children how to open windows.

2. How and Where to Find Fire Escape Ladders

If you have a two-story home, ladders can help people escape through top-floor windows. These are best used by adults and older children. Make sure everyone knows how to use them.

3. Where to Meet

As part of your emergency escape plan, pick a meeting spot a safe distance away from the home. Everyone should know where it is. It is very important that children understand that everyone will meet at this safe meeting place and that they don’t need to try to rescue anyone on their way out of the home.

After your fire escape plan is established, your family should practice putting it into place. Practice until it can be completed in less than two minutes. In addition, your household can practice low crawling and waking up to a smoke alarm. Teach everyone how to dial 9-1-1 and stop, drop and roll.

The thought of experiencing a house fire is a scary one, but it’s better to come up with a fire escape plan in case of an emergency than it is to ignore the issue. Having a plan in place will help keep you and your loved ones safe.

4 Steps To Prevent a Home Fire

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Prevent Devastation To Your Home

As smoke and flames engulf your home, you have only one choice: evacuate for safety. At that time, your concern is personal welfare. You won't be able to turn back the clock and wish you'd been able to stop it. Rather, what you can do is try and avoid regrets by thinking ahead and using fire preparation tips to avoid disaster. Use the following four steps could help prevent devastation to your home.

1. Be Watchful

Understand common triggers of electrical, heating and cooking fires. As you use your appliances, pay close attention to how they run and what the cords look like. For instance, do you smell burning rubber when the dryer or dishwasher run? Do you see frays in an electrical wire? Are outlets loose or popping? Any of these could be a potential hazard. Call in a professional to inspect the issue and make any needed repairs.

2. Stay Out of the Heat

If using open flames or space heaters understand fire safety procedures. Locate heating units and candles in open areas, away from cloth, plastic or other combustible material. While cooking meals, remain focused on the stove. Multi-tasking is helpful, but it can pull you out of sight should an incident occur.

3. Teach Mindfulness

You can't always be around your kids, and children have a natural propensity for curiosity. This innate acquisitiveness could get them and you into trouble; therefore, educate them about the dangers of home fire. Matches, candles, and lighters are not toys; in fact, keep them out of reach and discourage them from using them.

4. Be Prepared

Since fires can start and spread quickly don't wait for an incident to take action. Discuss fire preparation with your family, maintain smoke detectors in each room, and have a plan for escape.
Should the unexpected happen, call 911 immediately, evacuate the house, and locate a fire restoration team in Bal Harbour, FL, to help with fire damage cleanup.
Remain alert and teaching cautiousness. fire preparation is key to helping your loved ones and your home remain safe.

4 Actions You Should Take If You Smell Natural Gas

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

4 Actions You Should Take If You Smell Natural Gas

There are a few warning you should take seriously in your home. A tornado warning is something that should never be ignored. The presence of leaking water demands immediate attention. If you smell the signature odor of gas (which is actually the added substance mercaptan), you should take quick action. A gas leak puts you and your home in Bal Harbour, FL, at a greater risk of a gas fire. If the leak is significant, a small flame or spark could result in a catastrophic explosion. Not only should you take action, but the action should be with a purpose.

1. Try to locate the leak - A number of possible sources exist for a natural gas leak. Any appliances that operate through gas power should be looked at. This includes washers and dryers, water heaters, furnaces, fireplaces and ovens. A quick look at these items could solve the problem once and for all. Once the leak is stopped, the risk of a home gas fire goes way down.

2. Tell the people in your home - It is important to alert those in the home that you have identified a potential problem. Anyone who is not actively looking for a leak should vacate the premises. They should retreat far enough away that if a gas explosion does occur, they will be safe.

3. Call the fire department or gas company - If the leak cannot be found, it is time to call in the experts. Either the gas company or the fire department will dispatch someone to your home. These professionals will have added knowledge and equipment to find the source of the leak and stop it.

4. Contact fire restoration professionals - If a gas fire does ensue, you will need the services of a local fire mitigation franchise. Technicians will arrive to your home quickly and get to work on the fire restoration process. A SERVPRO franchise will be able to clean up soot and smoke damage "Like it never even happened."

Enjoy These Advantages by Choosing a Fire Mitigation Company

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

Enjoy These Advantages by Choosing a Fire Mitigation Company

After a fire inside your Golden Glades, FL, business is extinguished, you will have to deal with the resulting fire damage. Your insurance adjuster can determine how much you can claim, but you still need to handle the repairs. While it is tempting to confront the situation yourself, there is another option. A fire mitigation company provides several advantages that can make the overall process faster and easier.

Quick Response
The leftover damage is a major threat to the rest of the building. If it is left alone for too long, it can destroy everything else. Additionally, if you close the business, you might lose significant revenue from costumer visits. These reasons are why a fast response is important in fire remediation. Most companies in this field have a 24/7 response team that asks detailed questions about the current situation and sends the right personnel immediately.

Multiple Services
Another advantage of having mitigation specialists assist you with your fire damage case is their "one-stop-shop" approach. They offer a wide range of services such as:

• Inspections and assessments
  
• Window board-up and roof tarp
  
• Smoke and soot removal
  
• Disinfection and cleaning
  
• Restoration
  
  

If non-professionals handle the process, it might require multiple individuals and a greater amount of time and money. Emergency repair companies provide these services under one project, making the process more efficient and affordable.

Professional Assistance
Most restoration companies are made of licensed and certified employees with years of experience. They use the best techniques and equipment to deal with situations like yours. Leaving the project to them not only guarantees high-quality fire mitigation, but it also keeps you and others safe. You can rely on other people to handle this part of the situation while you spend your time on other business matters.
A commercial building with fire damage requires special care that you and most people may not easily provide. Work with mitigation technicians to enjoy these benefits.

Prevent Fire Damage in Bal Harbour

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

The U.S. Fire Administration reports that a small flame can turn into a major fire in just 30 seconds. Flames and smoke can fill your house or office in just a few minutes. SERVPRO of North Miami will help you recover from fire damage. We hope you never need that kind of help.

The best fire control is fire prevention.

SERVPRO of North Miami reminds you that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure and we offer these Tips for Fire Prevention: Overview

• Items that can catch fire include: dish towels, oven mitts, paper, curtains, wooden spoons, decorations
• Heat sources include: light bulbs, fireplaces, stove tops, furnaces, candles, or electric heaters.
• Keep items that can catch fire at least 3 feet away from heat sources
• Keep kids at least 3 feet away from heat sources
• Turn off heat sources when you leave the home or go to bed
• Never use the oven as a heater
• Have the fireplace chimney inspected & cleaned once a year

SERVPRO of North Miami suggests that you keep one or more fire extinguishers available.

Remember fire is fast. If there is a fire, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 from outside the home or office.

Links:

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

Checking For and Avoiding Home Gas Leaks

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

When most people contemplate the threat of uncontrolled flames, they tend to imagine those originating in fireplaces or ones sparked by electrical malfunctions. Consequently, many fail to recognize how often a gas fire becomes the source of a raging inferno.

Checking for Leaks

If you use natural gas in Biscayne Park, FL, and smell sulfur or detect a hissing sound that raises suspicions, do the following:

• Inspect your stove. Accidentally turned on burners should be immediately switched off.
  
• At night, only use flashlights as flipping switches could potentially trigger a gas explosion.
  
• Ventilate the area. Open windows and doors, allowing harmful gasses to dissipate.
  
• Keep a wrench near your gas meter. This small piece of preparation means you won’t run into difficulties or waste time searching for one when closing your valve.
  
• Grab loved ones and evacuate. It’s imperative that you leave any area where a gas fire could suddenly spring to life.
  
  

Remember to have your phone with you so you can contact the fire department once you’ve safely moved away from any potential hazard.

Knowing the Causes of Leaks
Before finding yourself in a perilous situation, know what generates leaks to prevent one from happening. Cookers and boilers that have been badly maintained are a common source. Similarly, poor fittings can also lead to trouble, as sloppily installed hoses allow flammable vapors to escape. Prevent this eventuality by having gas-powered items only installed by registered Gas Safe engineers.
Parts commonly wear and crack on older systems, especially surrounding seals. Check appliances for anomalies, and replace questionable components if concerns arise. When moving, review preexisting equipment before making use of anything.
Closely observe your gas line, as it can easily become compromised from dead vegetation or a natural disaster. Also, keep an eye out for bubbling water or displaced soil, as these are definite warning signs. Should you detect anything unusual, have your gas provider promptly conduct an official analysis.
Before a gas fire in your house requires the services of a blaze repair expert, take preventative measures and always practice proper safety protocol.

Three Grill Cleaning Tips

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

Three Grill Cleaning Tips

Properly cleaning your grill is essential for keeping your grill cooking efficiently and reducing fire risks. Consider adding these three grill cleaning tips to your grill maintenance routine.

1. Gather Your Equipment
The cleaning process will be easier if you make sure you have all the equipment you need before you get started. Useful equipment to have on hand includes a long-handled wire brush, a wire bottle brush, and a large bucket. Cleaning products are available that are marketed as being specific for grills, but some of them can leave behind residue that may affect the flavor of your food. A grease-fighting detergent, such as dishwashing soap, baking soda, and vinegar can be used as alternatives to grill cleaning chemicals. If you have a stainless steel grill, you may want to invest in a stainless steel cleaner, such as Barkeeper's Friend, to keep your grill looking shiny.

2. Modify Your Technique for Your Grill Type
Different grill types have different cleaning issues that need to be addressed. For instance, charcoal and pellet grills accumulate ash at the bottom of the grill that will need to be removed. The ports on the gas supply lines of a gas power grill can become blocked.

3. Do Not Forget To Clean the Inside
You may be tempted to focus your efforts on cleaning the grates, but the inside of your grill needs regular cleanings too. Grease and food particles can build up inside your grill and increase the risk of a grease fire. To remove them, you will need to take your grill apart and use an object, such as a putty knife or a metal spatula, to scrape down the inside of your grill.
Regular grill cleaning can improve your grill's cooking performance and decrease the chances of starting a grill fire. However, if a fire does happen, a fire cleanup professional in Sunny Isles, FL, can assist you.

Steps to Creating a Fire Escape Plan

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

The thought of a fire starting in your North Miami, home would certainly fill you with fear. Though you may not think this could happen to you, it's important to be prepared in case this disaster strikes. In addition to having functioning smoke alarms to alert you of the danger, you should develop a fire escape plan so everyone in your household knows how to get to safety.

Identify Exit Routes
During a home fire, every second counts. You may not have a lot of time to get out before the fire spreads and before flames and smoke block every path. As a family, walk through your house and point out every possible exit point. Also, make sure you do the following:

Identify the easiest windows to open.
Make sure everyone knows how to open windows.
Choose two safe exits from every room in the house.

Choose a Meeting Place
Deciding where to meet outside the home is one of the most important aspects of fire preparation. Everyone in your family needs to know precisely where to go after exiting. This should be a spot far enough away from the house that you're safe. This could be a neighbor's house or a nearby park.

Make Assignments
If you have younger or elderly family members that would need assistance getting out of the home, ensure that someone helps get them out. This is also important in a fire escape plan for people with physical limitations. Assign someone to retrieve pets in the event of a fire, too.

Practice
At least twice a year, you should run through the escape plan. Time yourself to see how fast you can exit, and note improvements from year to year. Go through a test run at different times, including at night.

Residential Fire Prevention

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

PREVENT FIRE IN YOUR HOME

The causes of these fires range from food left unattended on the stove to candles left burning. From the moment a fire starts to the point where the structure is fully engulfed is usually less than two minutes, which is why it is so important for occupants to get out of the home as quickly as possible and not try to put out a large fire themselves.

Cooking

·         U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated annual average of 162,400 cooking-related fires between 2009-2013 resulting in 430 civilian deaths, 5,400 civilian injuries and 1.1 billion 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.

·         Ranges accounted for three of every five (61%) home cooking fire incidents. Ovens accounted for 13%.

·         Children under five face a higher risk of non-fire burns associated with cooking and hot food and drinks than of being hurt in a cooking fire.

·         Children under five accounted for 30% of the 4,300 microwave oven scald burns seen in hospital emergency rooms during 2014.

·         Clothing was the item first ignited in less than 1% of home cooking fires, but these incidents accounted for 18% of the cooking fire deaths.

·         More than half of people injured in home fires involving cooking equipment were hurt while attempting to fight the fire themselves.

·         Frying is the leading activity associated with cooking fires.

To protect yourself, it is important to understand the basic characteristics of fire. Fire spreads quickly; there is no time to gather valuables or make a phone call. In just two minutes, a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames.

Heat and smoke from fire can be more dangerous than the flames. Inhaling the super-hot air can sear your lungs. Fire produces poisonous gases that make you disoriented and drowsy. Instead of being awakened by a fire, you may fall into a deeper sleep. Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by a three-to-one ratio.

Fire Safety Tips

• Do not use electrical equipment that is in poor condition or that has a damaged cord.
• Do not overload circuits or extension cords, read producers specifications.
• Use approved power bars instead of circuit splitters.
• Keep all heat-producing appliances away from the wall and away from anything that might burn.
• Leave plenty of space for air to circulate around equipment that normally gives off heat.
• Ensure small appliances such as heaters, fans etc. are shut off before exiting the building.
• Make sure all appliances, such as coffee makers and hot plates, are turned off when not in use.
• Toasters and microwave ovens should be located in kitchen areas only.
• Avoid deep fat frying, or use a thermostat controlled appliance and never leave it unattended.
• Keep all combustible materials, such as paper towels and cloths, at a safe distance from heat sources.
• Keep storage areas, stairway landings and other out-of-way locations free of waste paper, empty cartons, dirty rags and other material that could fuel a fire.
• Ensure office doors and ancillary office doors, for example, file room and hallway doors, are closed when exiting the building.
• Ensure heat registers are clear of combustible items such as paper at all times. 

·http://www.rdbn.bc.ca/protectiveservices/fire-protection/business-fire-safety-planning-information/common-causes-of-fire-in-businesses

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

·         A no cost assessment of your facility.
This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
 

·         A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
 

·         A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
 

·         Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
 

·         Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
 

·         Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."

https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/readyprogram

Smoke Detectors can Save Lives in Sunny Isles

7/24/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke detectors save lives.

SERVPRO of North Miami reminds you that smoke detectors (smoke alarms) can help save lives in Sunny Isles, Florida.

Smoke spreads fast. An alarm gives you time to get out.

SERVPRO of North Miami wants you to remember:

• Closed doors can slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. That is good for reducing smoke damage and fire damage. That is also why you should have a smoke alarm in every sleeping room in the home
• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home
• Large homes might need extra smoke alarms
• Some companies make alarms that are interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound
• Do not turn off smoke detectors when cooking
• Test the smoke alarms at least once a month. There is a test button on the alarm
• When the alarm sounds, get everyone outside and stay outside
• Replace all smoke alarms every 10 years

If your Sunny Isles 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.

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

What To Do During a Miami Home Fire

6/10/2019 (Permalink)

Follow These Tips To Protect Your Miami Home

Fear can immobilize anyone—especially when they are unprepared for emergencies. When this happens, bad situations can become even worse. A fire can get out of control quickly; so time is of the essence. With that in mind, the best way to deal with this type of emergency is to be prepared in advance. Here are a few tips from the American Red Cross that could possibly save lives and money:

• Install fire alarms on every floor, inside and outside every room.
• Test smoke alarms once a year and change batteries when necessary.
• Create an escape plan with other occupants and test every six months.
• If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT, AND CALL FOR HELP. DO NOT go back inside for any reason.

We at SERVPRO of North Miami want you to remember that fire is dangerous and can even be deadly. But, like anything else in life, if you are prepared and vigilant, there is nothing you need to fear.

Prevent Fire Damage In Your Golden Glades Home or Office

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent Fire Damage In Golden Glades

Fear can immobilize anyone—especially when they are unprepared for emergencies. When this happens, bad situations can become even worse. A fire can get out of control quickly; so time is of the essence. With that in mind, the best way to deal with this type of emergency is to be prepared in advance. Here are a few tips from the American Red Cross that could possibly save lives and money:

• Install fire alarms on every floor, inside and outside every room.
• Test smoke alarms once a year and change batteries when necessary.
• Create an escape plan with other occupants and test every six months.
• If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT, AND CALL FOR HELP. DO NOT go back inside for any reason.

We at SERVPRO of North Miami want you to remember that fire is dangerous and can even be deadly. But, like anything else in life, if you are prepared and vigilant, there is nothing you need to fear.

Holiday Fire Safety Tips

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and good cheer. Homes around the world decorate their houses, both inside and outside, with Christmas trees, Hanukkah menorahs, and beautiful lights. While this is all wonderful, it is important to keep in mind that all of these items present potential fire hazards for your home and should be taken very seriously.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), about 40 percent of Christmas tree fires begin in the family room, den, or living room. In addition, Christmas, New Year’s Day, and New Year’s Eve are the tops three days in the year for home candle fires. As such, it is important to keep these holiday fire safety tips in mind:

• Do not leave your holiday cooking unattended while the oven or stove is on
• Purchase a Christmas tree with intact needles, water it daily, and make sure the trunk has a fresh cut
• Keep candles at least a foot away from anything that could catch fire
• Keep matches and lighters away from children
• Carefully inspect light strings for things like cracked wires, frays, or broken sockets
• Do not leave your home while menorah candles are still lit
• Get your chimney inspected before you begin lighting fires

The above tips are crucial to keep your home and your family safe this holiday season. If the home of you or a loved one has suffered fire damage, call on the fire restoration specialists at SERVPRO for immediate help!

Fire Hazards in the Kitchen

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

Fire accidents are something that people think will never happen to them. As we’ve seen in recent months in states like California, forest fires can be extremely dangerous and destruction to anything and everything near and in its path. In South Florida, forest fires are far less common. However, it is important for Florida residents to understand that there are still a lot of risks when it comes to fires and your home or commercial property. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recently released a report stating that 2 in every 5 home fires in the United States begin in the kitchen.

Cooking is a fun activity that is enjoyed by friends and family of all walks of life. Some of a family’s best moments are those spent in the kitchen cooking, eating, and enjoying each other’s company. Unfortunately, the kitchen is also a potentially hazardous place when it comes to fires. The following are some of the biggest fire hazards in the kitchen:

• Ovens
• Stovetops
• Grills
• Broilers
• Microwaves
• Grease build-up on stovetop
• Electrical wiring
• Loose clothing near open flames or on the stovetop

Being aware of the above hazardous items is important to maintain a safe and secure kitchen area. It is important to keep a fire extinguisher near or inside of the kitchen in the event that a fire starts. Cooking fires are the leading source of fires throughout the country, so being hyper-aware of the potential risks associated with kitchen items is important. If you have experienced a kitchen fire, contact our team at SERVPRO to take care of the cleanup and restoration.

Electrical Safety for Your Children

7/26/2018 (Permalink)

Homeowners often think of fire and electrical safety in regards to protecting their family and their property, but considering these practices from a child’s perspective is imperative to truly keeping your loved ones and home safe from harm. When discussing these issues with kids, it is best to break things into two categories in order for them to be easily understood and readily followed. Far too many parents sit their children down and offer guidelines given to them, which are difficult for kids to understand and put into practice. As such, today we offer some easy tips for explaining electrical safety to your children.

Below, we will break down how to help your children with identifying safe practices versus unsafe practices. Be sure to talk through these items with your kids slowly and carefully.

The following practices and ideas are positioned in the “safe” category:

• Help your parents by reminding them to test your smoke alarm monthly and change the smoke alarm batteries yearly
• Be sure to turn off the lights when leaving a room and before going to sleep
• If you see smoke or a fire, leave your home right away and call 911 from a safe location
• Make sure space heaters have a space, do not place anything that can burn anywhere near them

The following practice and ideas are positioned in the “unsafe” category:

• Never use or touch electrical cords that are broken or frayed
• Always keep electronics far away from any liquids
• Do not overcrowd electrical outlets with cords, if there are too many in one location ask an adult to remove some
• Do not put anything that can burn near lightbulbs or lampshades

Electrical safety and fire safety are important subject matters that must be addressed by parents on a regular basis. Make it a habit to ask your children questions to ensure that they are well-versed on the above safety tips at all times.

Smoke Alarm Safety for Your Home

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

Properly functioning smoke alarms are a key aspect to general home safety when it comes to potential home fires. Unfortunately, statistics point to the fact that approximately 60 percent of home fire deaths are a direct result of fires in properties without working smoke alarms. While it may seem like an afterthought or a bonus for a home, the reality is that smoke alarms save lives and missing or broken smoke alarms can be the cause of fire deaths or fire injuries. When a fire starts in a home, it spreads incredibly fast. As such, it is absolutely essential for all South Florida homeowners to have working smoke alarms installed throughout their homes to ensure they can get out as quickly as possible.

Some experts say that a family has one minute or less to get out of a home in the event of a fire. Having a smoke alarm in the house in one of the most effective ways to save you and your family’s lives. Keep in mind the following smoke alarm safety tips:

• Make sure your alarm system is interconnected so that when one alarm goes off they all do
• Check your smoke alarms every month to make sure they are functioning correctly
• Get new smoke alarms installed every 10 years
• Smoke alarms should be installed both inside and outside of all bedrooms or other sleeping areas
• Smoke alarms should be installed on each level of the home
• Replace smoke alarm battery at least one time a year (9-volt battery)
• Practice a fire drill in the event that the alarm goes off
• Once the smoke alarm sounds, everyone must get out of the house fast

An estimated 3,000 people are killed each year in the United States due to fires. Ensure that you and your family are taking every measure to be protected from fire danger. The first step in safeguarding your home is to deploy the above smoke alarm tips right away. If your home has suffered any fire damage, contact the professionals at SERVPRO today to learn more!

Unexpected Fires

3/2/2018 (Permalink)

The majority of fires are believed to be caused by candles and cooking incidents, yet it is best to have knowledge of the unexpected household items that may cause fires, to prevent them in advance:

1. Cooking Equipment- Pots and pans can overheat and cause a fire very easily if the person cooking gets distracted and leaves cooking unattended. Always stay in the room, or ask someone to watch your food, when cooking on hotplates.
2. Heating- Keep portable heaters at least one meter away from anything that could easily catch fire such as furniture, curtains, laundry, clothes and even yourself.
3. Smoking in bedrooms- Bedrooms are best to be kept off limits for smoking. A cigarette that is not put out properly can cause a flame, as the butt may stay lit for a few hours. It could burst into flames if it came into contact with flammable materials, such as furniture. 
4. Electrical Equipment- An electrical appliance, such as a toaster can start a fire if it is faulty or has a frayed cord. A power point that is overloaded with double adapter plugs can cause a fire from an overuse of electricity. A power point extension cord can also be a fire hazard if not used appropriately. Double check the appliances and power points in your home.
5. Candles- Candles look and smell pretty, but if left unattended they can cause a room to easily burst into flames. Keep candles away from any obviously flammable items such as books and tissue boxes. Always blow a candle out before leaving a room.
6. Curious Children- Kids can cause a fire out of curiosity, to see what would happen if they set fire to an object. Keep any matches or lighters out of reach of children, to avoid any curiosity turned disaster. Install a smoke alarm in your child’s room and practice a home escape plan with your children and family in case there was a fire. Teach kids understand the “stop, drop, cover and roll” drill as well as knowing their address.
7. Faulty Wiring- Homes with inadequate wiring can cause fires from electrical hazards. Some signs to see if you’ve bad wiring are: 1) Lights dim if you use another appliance; 2) For an appliance to work, you have to disconnect another; 3) Fuses blow or trip the circuit frequently.
8. Barbeques- Barbeques are great for an outdoor meal, but should always be used away from the home, tablecloths or any plants and tree branches. Keep BBQs regularly maintained and cleaned with soapy water and clean any removable parts. Check the gas bottle for any leaks before you use it each time.
9. Flammable Liquids- If you have any flammable liquids in the home or garage such as petrol, kerosene or methylated spirits, keep them away from heat sources and check the label before storing. Be careful when pouring these liquids.
10. Lighting- Lamp shades and light fittings can build up heat if they are very close to light globes. Check around the house to make sure. Lamp bases can become a hazard if they are able to be knocked over easily, and so should be removed if they are. Check that down lights are insulated from wood paneling or ceiling timbers.

In the case that any home or business fire occurs, contact SERVPRO of North Miami to assist you in leaving your home "Like it never even happened."

Once a house fire occurs...

3/2/2018 (Permalink)

A fire in a home can cause serious damage. The building and many of the things in your home may have been badly damaged by flames, heat, smoke and water. It is important to know what to do after the fire has been turned off:

1. Personal Safety- Do not enter a damaged home or apartment unless the fire department says it is safe. Fires can start again, even if they appear to be out. Watch for damage caused by the fire. Roofs and floors may be damaged and could fall down.
2. Secure the premises- Board up any open windows or doors that may have been damaged during the fire to prevent looting.
3. Contact your insurance agent- Ask what to do about the immediate needs of your home. This includes pumping out water and covering doors, windows and other openings. If you do not have insurance, there organizations that may be able to assist you in the time of need; such as American Red Cross, Religious organizations, Public Health Department, or State emergency offices.
4. Finances- Finances Get in touch with your landlord or mortgage lender ASAP. Contact your credit card company to report credit cards that were lost in the fire and request replacements.
5. Restoration- Contact SERVPRO of North Miami to begin restoring your home to habitable living conditions. The restoration process for a fire may be lengthy depending on the severity of the damages but SERVPRO will facilitate the process and will leave it "Like it never even happened."

Facts about Home Fires

1/6/2018 (Permalink)

Home fires in the United States are continuously a safety issue. In fact, more than 80 percent of all fire deaths occur in home fires. As such, being as educated as possible about home fires is important to protecting your loved ones and your house from potential fire hazards. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, each year throughout the country over 2,500 people die and 12,600 people are injured as a result of a home fire. While they certainly range in severity, fires are something that must be treated seriously no matter the size. Most natural disasters are scary due to their unpredictability, fires, on the other hand, are entirely preventable. The ability to prevent a fire from occurring lies largely in one’s fire education.

Keeping in the mind the following facts about fire can make a huge impact on staying safe in the event of a fire emergency or in preventing a fire from starting in the first place:

• 60 percent of home fire deaths happen when there are no smoke alarms or the smoke alarms are not working
• Every home should have a fire escape plan in place, but only 30 percent of Americans have one
• Each day, an average of 7 people in the U.S. die in a home fire
• The leading cause of home fire deaths is smoking materials
• The leading cause of home fire injuries is cooking equipment
• About 50 percent of home fires deaths are reported between the hours of 11pm and 7am
• The risk of dying in a fire is cut in half when there is a working smoke alarm present
• In the event of a home fire, everyone must get low to crawl under the smoke towards the nearest exit of the home
• Once a smoke alarm goes off, you only have a few seconds to escape the home

It is important to remember that after a fire no one should go back into the building unless instructed to do so by a firefighter. Fire damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO specializes in fire damage restoration and we’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Importance of Smoke Alarms

9/5/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms can save lives. In order to protect your family, pets, and yourself from injury or death during a fire, smoke alarms are essential. Below, you’ll find the best tips for ensuring that safety at all times:

• A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. 
• Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound. 
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• There are two kinds of alarms. Ionization smoke alarms are quicker to warn about flaming fires. Photoelectric alarms are quicker to warn about smoldering fires. It is best to use of both types of alarms in the home.
• When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside.
• Replace all smoke alarms in your home every 10 years.

From Fire to Water Damage

8/11/2017 (Permalink)

In some fires, the damages caused by the flames turn out to be the least of our customer's concerns. Fires can also trigger damage to residential and commercial properties in ways many would not expect, water damage. This could be a result of the efforts to put out the fire or from the heat itself. Fire can melt and break metal faucets and plumbing due to its extreme temperature, causing profuse leaks and ruptures wherever it crosses a water fixture. Although these do not often release enormous amounts of water, they can cause considerable damage to floors and walls in the surrounding areas. Even though both forms of damage are just as important; the water mitigation needs to be addressed immediately to prevent secondary damage to the structure. 

Candle Fires

8/1/2017 (Permalink)

There is a sense of tranquility to candles, but we need to keep in mind that they are an open flame and a potential fire hazard. There are several things to keep in mind to properly monitor a burning candle, as stated by the National Candle Association:

• Never touch or move a burning candle. Never move a votive or container candle when the wax is liquefied.
• Don’t burn a candle all the way down. For a margin of safety, discontinue burning a candle when 2 inches of wax remains (1/2 inch if in a container).
• Place burning candles at least three inches apart from one another. This is to make sure they don’t melt one another, or create their own drafts that will cause the candles to burn improperly.
• Extinguish a candle if the flame becomes too high or flickers repeatedly. Let the candle cool, trim the wick, and check for unwanted drafts before re-lighting.
• Always keep the candle within your sight. If you are going to leave the room, be sure to first blow out all candles.
• Always burn candles in a well-ventilated room. Don’t burn too many candles in a small room or in a “tight” home where air exchange is limited.
• Never use a candle as a night light.
• Be very careful if using candles during a power outage. Flashlights and other battery-powered lights are safer sources of light during a power failure. Never use a candle during a power outage to look for things in a closet, or when fueling equipment – such as a lantern or kerosene heater.
• Never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire. Keep burning candles away from furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, paper, flammable decorations, etc.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets. Do not place lighted candles where they can be knocked over by children, pets or anyone else.

Some of these points may seem obvious at first but it is better " to be safe than sorry." All preventative measures should be considered when dealing with an open flame, no matter how small it is. 

BUSINESS CHECKLIST FOR FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY

12/29/2016 (Permalink)

Whether you are the Head Honcho or one of the all-important cogs that makes the wheels of efficiency and profitability turn smoothly you have some measure of responsibility for keeping your workplace safe. Many fire departments provide special training for businesses. As the slogan goes, learn not to burn!

Employees in small and large businesses have responsibilities related to fire and life safety. Employers and supervisors must be certain their co-workers are well informed, trained and prepared. Fire can happen anytime anywhere. Every business has potential fire hazards. All employees should keep fire protection and fire and life safety near the top of their list of concerns.

Perhaps your fellow workers should conduct a survey to gather ideas about potential hazards unique to your workplace. Meanwhile, here’s a list of things every business should consider:

Does your workplace have a fire safety plan?
When was the last time your fire safety plan was reviewed and updated?
Is the staff trained based on the plan?
Do you have a well-rehearsed evacuation plan?
Do employees know where to gather after an evacuation?
Does your workplace or business take advantage of fire and safety services training provided by the fire department?
Are differently abled employees prepared and capable of evacuating safely?
Are their fellow employees ready to assist them if necessary?
Are your local fire protection professionals aware of any potential hazards in your workplace?
Do you have a functioning and regularly tested fire alarm system?
Do employees know how to activate the fire alarm?
Are employees familiar with the sound emitted by the fire alarm system?
Are smoke detectors and sprinkler systems in good working order?
Are electrical outlets overloaded?
Are heat generating office machines and other devices placed safely and operated according to manufacturer’s instructions?
Are flammable materials labeled correctly and stored safely?
Are your stairways uncluttered and safe?
Are your hallways and passageways kept free of flammable materials and clutter?
Are all exits clearly marked and free from obstructions?
Do employees know what to do when they smell smoke?
Do employees know not to use elevators if a fire breaks out?
Do smokers on your staff practice fire safety?
Are employees trained to use fire extinguishers?
Do employees know a fire extinguisher is only effective on small fires?
When was the last time your fire extinguishers were inspected?

What to do after the fire

10/10/2016 (Permalink)

Recovering from a fire can be a physically and mentally draining process.

When fire strikes, lives are suddenly turned around. Often, the hardest part is knowing where to begin and who to contact.

Contact your insurance company or agent right away.

Ask your agent:

What to do about the immediate needs of your home. This includes pumping out water and covering doors, windows, and other openings.
What you should do first. Some companies may ask you to make a list of everything that was damaged by the fire. They will ask you to describe these in detail and say how much you paid for the items.
Entering the home after the fire:

Do not enter a damaged home or apartment unless the fire department says it is safe to go in!
Fires can start again even if they appear to be out.
Soot and dirty water left behind may contain things that could make you sick. Do not eat, drink, or breathe in anything that has been near the fire’s flames, smoke, soot, or water used to put the fire out.
SERVPRO technicians are experts in cleaning and/or restoring your personal items.

Residential and Commercial Restoration and Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of Hollywood / Hallandale / Aventura provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial emergency.

24-Hour Emergency Service

Faster to Any Size Disaster

Highly Trained Restoration Technicians

A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry

Locally Owned and Operated

Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (954) 921-8992

9 Fire Safety Tips

10/7/2016 (Permalink)

Keep your family safe: Practice fire safety

It must be fire safety month at Safe Sound Family, because clearly, I have fire on the brain. I don’t want to be alarmist (haha), as that is truly not my intent. It’s just that my parents once taught me that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and I can’t think of many situations in which that idiom rings truer than it does with fire prevention and safety.

So think of today as your Cliff’s Notes to fire safety – a quick & dirty guide to protect your family from the dangers of faulty electronics, flammable goods, lightening storms, and wayward appliances.

1. Educate Your Kids

Kids have an awesome capacity for learning and understanding, so school them in fire safety. Children do really well with mnemonics and mantras and other tools to jog their memories in case of emergency. (For some specific tips, check out our article on fire prevention for kids or our comprehensive guide to Fire Safety for Kids.)

2. Smoke Alarms & Fire Extinguishers

You should have at least one smoke alarm per level of your home, plus extras in every sleeping area and near the kitchen. You should also have at least one fire extinguisher in your home, and preferably one per floor. Check smoke alarm batteries & extinguisher pressure regularly, and change batteries at least twice a year. (Read more about smoke detector placement & maintenance.)

3. Fire Sprinklers

Did you know you can get fire sprinklers installed in your home? I know, sounds fancy schmancy, but they’re actually quite affordable. In fact, once you factor in insurance discounts and increased property values, home fire sprinklers are actually a great investment in your family’s safety.

Kids are great – and eager – allies in your family’s fire safety plan

4. Plan Your Escape

You may not want to think about it, but you do need to create an emergency escape plan in case of fire.

5. Appliances & Electrical Safety

Nearly half of all house fires are attributed to faulty appliances, electronics, and electrical wiring. Practice proper electrical safety at home, including regular safety checks.

6. In the Kitchen

Okay, the number one fire safety tip in the kitchen is never leave your cooking unattended! Even if it’s just a turkey roasting for hours in the oven, don’t leave the house. If you’re using the stovetop, take extra precautions and move flammable materials (napkins, oven mitts, etc.) to a safe distance.

7. Smokers, Be Safe

If you smoke, you need to follow extra safety precautions. Keep lighters and matches out of reach of little hands. Always be sure to stub out your cigarettes thoroughly (or douse them in water). Never smoke near oxygen tanks, aerosol cans, or other flammable materials. Don’t smoke in bed.

8. Lightening

I don’t know about you but for me, lightening is both awesome and terrifying. A lightening storm, especially at night, is absolutely gorgeous. But it’s also potentially dangerous, so remember to stay inside. Stay away from water (don’t even wash your hands). Don’t use electronics. And if you feel your hair stand on end, lightening is about to strike. Duck! (Not kidding.)

9. Fire Protection Systems

Think of it like this: fire protection is to smoke alarms what a home security system is to DIY door sensors. In other words, a fire protection system links your smoke alarms to a security company, so they can monitor your home while you’re at work or on vacation, or can call the fire department in an emergency. Fire protection means someone else is looking out for your family, too.

Fire Prevention

10/27/2015 (Permalink)

As a FIRE prevention Month, SERVPRO of North Miamiwould like to share some tips and facts about preventing from any FIRE disasters. 

WHAT NOT TO DO AFTER A FIRE

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (305) 895-4880