Thermal Fogging

7/29/2024 (Permalink)

Thermal fogging is an effective method of deodorization following fire and smoke damage.

SERVPRO of Marshall and Sedalia performed thermal fogging services at a school after a fire caused smoke and soot damage throughout the building. Thermal fogging allows for a heated deodorizer to be sprayed in fog form to absorb smoke particles and eliminate smoke odors. Similar to the behavior of smoke, the deodorizer fog is able to reach all cracks and crevices and permeate materials such as walls, carpeting and more. This makes it an effective method of deodorization following fire and smoke damage.

SERVPRO of Marshall and Sedalia specializes in helping to make any fire or water disaster seem "Like it never even happened." With trained professionals, specialized equipment and premiere cleaning products, SERVPRO® is Here to help®. SERVPRO of Marshall and Sedalia offers 24-hour emergency services.

The P.A.S.S. Method

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

By learning the P.A.S.S. method, you add time back on the clock before the fire grows out of control.

Would you know how to stop a fire at a moment's notice? If you have never operated a fire extinguisher, you should read closely as we go through the P.A.S.S. method. By following these four easy steps, you can ensure that you keep your property safe from a potential complete loss. 

Pull the pin. When the pin is pulled, it will also break the tamper seal.

Aim low; the hottest part of the fire is at the base of the fire. That means that when directing the extinguisher, you should aim towards the base/ hottest part of the fire. 

Squeeze the handle. This will send the extinguishing agent into the fire, which ultimately ends the fire.

Sweep from side to side. It is best not to let go of the handle when directing the agent until the fire appears to be out.

You can save your property from a potential complete loss by learning these quick and easy tips on operating an extinguisher. If the fire grows out of control, leave the property immediately. No fire is worth jeopardizing your life as all materials are replaceable. If you need our fire restoration services, don't hesitate to get in touch with SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia and Columbia at 660-886-5194.

Don't Ignite Your Property

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

By going outside to smoke you are ensuring that you will keep your property and family safe from a potential fire.

Although it isn’t recommended, people will smoke cigarettes inside their homes, which always puts the owner at risk of a fire. In this blog, we will be going over how a simple cigarette has caused significant damage to our client’s property. 

• Overloaded Ashtray
• Typically, smokers will often sit the cigarette on the ashtray to complete whatever they are doing. This becomes a bigger problem for those who don’t clean out the ashtray, causing a backup of ash in the dish. When the cigarette sits on the ashtray, the butt can have hot ash ignite the plate on fire.
• Falling Asleep While Smoking 
• In the United States, one in twenty (5%) of home fires are started when the person falls asleep with an ignited cigarette in their hands. This is dangerous because a fire could start next to sleeping, causing severe burns or death. 
• Putting Out the Cigarette 
• When discarding a cigarette butt, you will want to ensure that it is fully put out before discarding it. What seems to happen a lot is when the smoker throws out the ignited butt, which could catch the bushes on fire the escalate to the entire home. 

A simple way to ensure the safety of your home when smoking is by going outside to smoke. This is easier said in the summertime, but you can keep your property safe from a potential fire by smoking outside. 

"3… 2… 1… Happy New Year"

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

A couple is enjoying the firework with no fear of a fire starting!

Everyone screams as the ball drop before the fireworks go off as pure excitement fills the air. With so many people wanting to be around their loved ones during this particular time, a fire would be the hiccup in that plan. 

Please be Responsible!

It's midnight, and you just got done kissing your special someone as the clocks strike midnight and as the fireworks start exploding in the air. Your SERVPRO professionals are here to remind you of the supervisor's responsibilities. 

Be Cautious About Smoke From Fireworks

When people shoot off many fireworks, the ground can collect a large amount of smoke. People with preexisting conditions can feel the effects of this, so when finding the launchpad site, you should think about where you want these people to sit. The perfect location would be upwind, where the smoke won't travel because the fine particles and gases left behind are hard on the lungs. 

Storing Unused Fireworks

Often, people will save some of their fireworks, and that's okay when it's in a controlled environment. The problem arises when they aren't properly stored, and the fireworks ignite inside the home. Finding the perfect location can ensure that your home is safe all year around.

From your SERVPRO, we want to wish you a Happy New Year!

Heating Alternatives

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Place the space heater on the floor to ensure proper use.

In Iowa, Mid-American Energy Co. has made a statement to its customers that they should expect their heating bills for natural gas to rise 46% to 96% over last year due to the rising has costs. Consumers who use propane for their heating source should expect their heating cost to rise 69% over the previous year. Consumers might feel the need to find heating alternatives such as space heaters. 

Dangers of Space Heaters

The Consumer Product Safety Commission stated that space heaters are the leading cause of a thousand house fires each year. Space heaters will be used as a heating alternative, but you must be using them correctly. By following these tips, you will ensure not putting yourself at risk of a house fire. 

• Keep space heater on the floor:

We get it; during a middle of a snowstorm, you might want to feel an overwhelming amount of warmth. When trying to save some money, you might want to move your space heater onto a counter next to you. Moving heaters isn’t wise because you might get the temperature of the counter to an unsafe level. Would you mind refraining from moving the heaters in this manner by keeping them on the ground, free from any flammable fabrics/items?

• Keep away from water:

Hopefully, we all know that water and electricity don’t go together, and this is the case with water and space heaters. Keep in mind the placement location as kitchens and bathrooms aren’t suitable places for space heaters. 

• Plug directly into the wall:

Many space heater fires start when the consumer plugs in onto an extension cord. Cords aren’t the best decision because people will try and cover the cord with a rug. When you add an extension cord into the mix, you add extra electrical connections, increasing your chance of creating resistances. When you create a more significant resistance, the more energy, heat, and the rug you placed over to cover up the cord is now getting heated. It’s when that rug gets to an unsafe heat level that it becomes a problem. When plugging the space heater directly into the wall, you will want to do 3 feet away check. Make sure that nothing flammable is in that 3-foot radius that could catch fire. 

With the projected increase in heating sources, we understand the appeal of having space heaters. These are great alternatives when you use them properly, so make sure you follow these big tips to ensure you have a safe, warm winter season. 

Dryer Fire Prevention

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

It is critical when doing laundry that you are not overfilling the machines.

It doesn’t matter if you love washing your clothes or you despise it doing laundry is a task. You have to organize, clean, dry, and fold/ hang up. Just for the following day to come, you encounter the “what do I wear” question, followed by you throwing different options on your bed. See, laundry is a task, but did you know that washers and dryers cause about 16,000 house fires each year—however, 31% of the leading causes are the failure to clean and perform routine maintenance. 

Causes of Dryer Fires

• Mechanical and Electrical Failure:

These types of fires aren’t as common as the others. To prevent these types of fires, you should check to ensure all parts are working correctly. This tip is critical, so you know if the machine needs to have any maintenance done.

• Improper Use:

When you are in a jam and think the current load can fit one or two more sweaters, you’re causing the machine to work harder. Another thing to keep in mind is the type of material that you are putting into the dryer. Some materials that aren’t suited for high temperatures are plastic, rubber, or foam, which can heat and melt, leading to a fire. 

• Dirty lint filters and vents

One of the leading causes of dryer fires are clogged vents, ducts, and filters. These filters can collect an excessive amount of dirt, grass, or other material left from the washer. Another critical thing to keep in mind is checking the outside vent, which prevents any birds, insects, or rodents from nesting and causing issues. 

Laundry might seem like an endless task, but following these simple steps can ensure that you aren’t creating perfect conditions for a dryer fire.

Winter Fire Prevention Checklist

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

It's the time of year where you start to use your heater more often, have you completed the list?

Did you complete your winter checklist?

As temperatures start reflecting the winter season, we wanted to provide you with some tips on ensuring you are winter fire prevention ready. Whether you are having a real Christmas tree or an artificial one, we will prepare you to step into the winter season on the right foot. 

• Turning off the space heater

As utility bills are estimated to rise significantly this year due to the increase in gas prices, many people will be purchasing space heaters as a heating alternative. To be space heater ready, feel free to read our space heater blog. To ensure that you are using the space heater correctly, make sure that you turn off the space heater when you leave a room unattended.  

• Cutting the bottom of Christmas Tree

As many people prepare for the tradition of having a real tree, many don’t understand the importance of setting it up. As soon as you bring in an outdoor tree, you will begin to notice it will dry out. A dry tree is problematic as the pine needles will become as flammable as a cotton drape. When setting up your tree, you will want to cut 4 inches off the base to ensure the water is absorbed. A hydrated tree will prevent the tree from drying out and making it more of a fire hazard. 

• Blowing out candles

People tend to be in their homes more in the winter months than in the summer months. With it getting darker out sooner and the overall wanting your space to smell like your favorite seasonal scents, people are at a higher risk of forgetting to blow out their candles. Forgetting to blow out a candle is a quick way to have a fire situation as there are so many factors that you can’t control. Pets, specifically cats, are the most significantly unpredictable as their fur can go up in flames fast. Pets also have the chance to knock down candles which would engulf the floor into a fire. When lighting candles, you will want to ensure that nothing flammable is within three feet of the candle.

• Getting your chimney cleaned

You know that chimney you probably haven’t touched since last winter? Well, if you haven’t scheduled someone to come clean it, this might be your reminder. When people don’t clean it out properly, it has a buildup of toxic gases that can pollute the air in your home. 

By implementing these tips, you are ensuring that you are proactive about fire safety during the winter months. Don’t let an uh oh turn into something bigger and more stressful for your holiday season. 

Smoke Webbing

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke webs appeared in this apartment complex after a fire caught in the lower level. The fire damage caused smoke and soot damage in the complex.

In the case of a fire, there can be a situation called smoke webbing. Ionization refers to particles of smoke with opposite charges attracting to each other. The formations of these smoke chains are called "smoke webs" as stated previously. These smoke webs look similar cobwebs. They are usually found at room corners and other parts of the home. The presence of smoke webs indicates combustion of synthetic materials, not spiders or cobwebs as some believe. In every fire, some surfaces can be become deeply embedded with soot and smoke odors. Ionization is one of the factors that influences smoke behavior. And understanding these factors help our team of professionals remove any damage appropriately. If you experience a fire in your home or business, you can call on our team of professionals to properly take care of your fire damage, smoke, and soot.

The Most Devastating Experience

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure to keep these lightbulbs and light fixtures cleaned. In this case, the ladybugs could've been the catalyst for an electrical fire

Property owners experiences a flood of emotions when a fire ravages their home or business.  Fear, uncertainty, stress and doubt about the future of the property and their livelihood can be overwhelming long after the fire has been extinguished and the smoke has cleared.

LOOK – LISTEN – LEARN

1. Look for places a fire could start. Take a good look around your home and identify potential fire hazards.
2. Listen for the sound of a smoke alarm. You only have minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds.  Go to your outside meeting place, which should be a safe distance from home or business which everyone knows where it is.
3. Learn 2 ways out of every room and make sure all doors and windows leading to the outside open easily and are free of clutter.

Every Second Counts

1. Consider escape ladders for sleeping area on the second and third floors. Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory.
2. Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them. Plan for everyone for everyone in your home or business, with special considerations for elderly or disabled individuals.
3. Practice your fire escape plan during the day and at nigh time.

Fires are Preventable

1. Immediately shut-off, then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to touch and lights that flicker.
2. Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damage appliance cords immediately and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
3. Never force a 3-slot prong plug into a 2-slot outlet or extension cord by breaking off the 3^rd prong to make it fit into a 2-prong outlet or extension cord.
4. Inspect and clean woodstove pipe and chimneys annually and check monthly for damage or obstructions.
5. Make sure fire is completely out in a fireplace before leaving the house or going to bed.

Keep Outdoor Light Bulbs and Fixture Clean

Holiday Safety Precautions

12/18/2020 (Permalink)

Winter begins in a few days, so it's important to know the essential safety tips for yourself and your family. Call our team if you need help.

The holiday season is here and we are able to enjoy time with our family and friends. Decorations bring the holidays to light. Keep your holidays merry and bright with these tips to help prevent damage to your home when choosing, placing, and decorating the Christmas Tree. 

Christmas Tree Safety

Tree Selection

· Choose a tree with fresh, green needles

· Make sure the tree needles to not fall off when touched

Tree Placement

· Trim 2” from the base of the trunk, then place in tree stand

· Always place the tree at least 3 feet away from any heat source, including fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights.

· Do not block an exit with the tree

· Add water to the tree stand and water daily.

Tree Lighting

· Use lights that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.

· String of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections need to be replaced.

· Read manufacter’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.

· Do not use lit candles to decorate tree.

· Always turn off Christmas tree lights before going to bed or leaving home.

Tree Disposal

· Remove tree from home/business when it is dry.

· Do not place dry tree in home, garage, or placed up against your home outside.

· Find a local community recycling program to dispose of tree.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA.org), these Christmas Tree safety tips can reduce the chances of a fire ruining your holidays.

Please remember SERVPRO of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia is here to help you, if you find yourself faced with a holiday fire damage. We are available 24/7/365.

Smoke Alarms Save Lives

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

Be aware of your own fire alarms to ensure your own safety. If you do experience fire damage then you can call on our team to help.

Smoke alarms save lives. This statement is only true, if they are properly installed and maintained. According to Missouri Department of Public Safety, about 540 children (14 and under) die each year from home fires and 80 percent of those children did not have working smoke alarms in the home. What can you do keep your family safe?

Fire alarms should be kept:

• Every Bedroom
• Every level
• Don’t forget basement and attic

Fire alarms should be tested:

• Monthly by pressing the test button
• Replace batteries every year (daylight saving time)
• Replace unit every 10 years

Some additional tips include a fire escape plan which should have two exits. It is important to practice dire drills and interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the property to ensure safety. When fire and water damage take control of your life and home, SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia will help you take it back. We are here to help our neighbors.

The Do's and Do Not's for Fire Damage

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

We offer several options for cleaning smoke and soot to help you get back to preloss conditions. We want you to know that we are "Here to help."

If you have fire and smoke damage to your property, home or business, it is hard to not start cleaning yourself. If this situation arises, please let our SERVPRO franchise professionals assist you. Here are some tips for those who experience fire and smoke damage in their home or business. The Do's are meant to help you minimize damage. Please keep movement in the building at a minimum.  Minimal movement helps keep particles from becoming embedded in carpet and fabrics. Make sure to wash your hands a lot and be cautious not to transfer or wipe soot onto something. It can make it damage the item more. If electricity is off, then empty fridges and freezers and prop doors open to prevent odors. It is beneficial to change your furnace/air conditioner filter, but don't let the system continue to run. Be certain to turn it off. The Don'ts that are stated should be left to professionals to help you get back to preloss conditions. Do not try washing anything yourself. You could further rub the soot into the item. Don't shampoo your carpet. We recommend that you take the time to talk to a professional first. Don't clean any electronics without contacting a professional. Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been affected by the fire, soot, or smoke. Additionally, do not use toiletries as they can also be affected by fire, soot, or smoke. Do not turn ceiling fans on, because this will stir up the soot residue. Our SERVPRO team is available for 24-hour emergency services.

We can make fire damage "Like it never even happened"

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Fires are often unexpected, and we want to create peace of mind as we are able to help get the property back to preloss conditions.

The first 24 hours after fire damage make the difference between restoring versus replacing the property. SERVPRO of Marshall/Columbia/Sedalia provides a timely response with mitigation services ranging from smoke and soot removal to contents claim inventory and document restoration. We offer a large amount of options in the case of fire damage. We can either utilize a dry or wet technique to completely remove soot off of surfaces like the walls and ceiling. Additionally, media blasting is used soot, mold, or paint removal. It is done by forcibly propelling a stream of abrasive material to smooth the surface. Lastly, thermal fogging recreates the act of penetrations and follows the same path of the smoke from a fire to deodorize. It is estimated that up to 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster, such as a fire, never reopen. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them have a preparedness plan in place. Whether it’s a home or business, SERVPRO is a lead in fire damage response and can help you quickly get the property back.

What ultrasonic cleaning can do for you!

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

This ultrasonic tank can clean a wide variety of materials and products.

Our Ultrasonic Machine system is utilized to clean many different items including items damaged by mold or soot, mainly being used with fire damage. An ultrasonic tank and dryer are paired together to help create a complete drying process. Contents are cleaned in our ultrasonic tank and then they are placed in the dryer to complete the system. This dual system allows for contents to be cleaned efficiently and thoroughly, expanding our range of restorable contents. We can clean some electronics, jewelry, guns, family heirlooms, light fixtures, porcelain dolls, etc. All this is done quickly and efficiently. We can clean a whole assortment of contents as it offers a deep and even clean for even the most delicate items. This system utilizes minimal chemicals and high speed and energy efficient cleaning. Ultrasonic works with high-frequency ultrasonic vibrations, along with the special cleaning solutions to create the effect of millions of tiny bubbles which break down contaminants off the target surface without the need for scrubbing. Even if you don't have fire and water damage in your home and you just need an item deep cleaned, feel free to bring it in and we will be happy to clean the item quickly and thoroughly for you. With our ultrasonic dryer, contents are cleaned in our ultrasonic tank and then placed in this dryer to complete the process.

Space Heater Fires

2/9/2020 (Permalink)

When a fire is started by a space heater, our team at SERVPRO is Here to Help.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there are more than 25,000 residential fires every year associated with the use of space heaters, resulting in more than 300 deaths. How can you keep you and your loved ones safe during the colder months?

Safety Guidelines

• Buy only heaters the have been safety tested and UL approved.
• Purchase a heater with a tip-over safety switch.
• Plug directly into the wall outlet.
• If an extension cord is essential, use the shortest possible heavy-duty cord of 14-gauge wire or larger (Always check and follow any manufacturer’s instructions).
• Keep away from flammable objects (3-foot rule).
• Never leave a space heather unattended.

Space heaters can be beneficial by warming up a room quickly, but they can create a disaster. If you experience a fire due to a space heater, call SERVPRO. We are Here to Help and ready to get your home back to preloss condition.

Cooking Safety to Prevent Kitchen Fire

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Marshall, Sedalia and Columbia is here to help in case the apple pie leaves you with a fire instead of a full belly.

The holiday season is the time of the year to gather with family and friends. Also, let’s not forget the delicious meals—yum! Holiday meals can bring our bellies cheer with Aunt Mary’s homemade noodles, grandpa’s famous corn casserole or any favorite holiday dish. However, cooking is the main cause of home fires and injuries, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Review these cooking safety tips to help ensure you have a safe holiday cooking experience.

• NEVER leave cooking food unattended. Turn off the stove, even if you think you will be right back in the kitchen.
• Check the food regularly while cooking and use a timer.
• Keep small children away from the cooking area.
• Keep flammables (pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels and bags) away from the stove, oven, or other appliances that generate heat in the kitchen.
• Prevent grease build-up by cleaning cooking surfaces regularly.
• Purchase and keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen.
• Install smoke alarms in your home.

If the unthinkable happens and a fire strikes your home this holiday season, contact your local heroes at SERVPRO of Marshall, Sedalia and Columbia. We wish you a safe and happy holiday season.

Plan Your Fire Escape Route

9/30/2019 (Permalink)

Having a fire escape plan on your home, can keep your family safe.

Fire Prevention Week is October 6^th-12^th. The theme for 2019 is “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!” How can you and your family be prepared for a fire?

Plan Your Escape Route

Draw a layout of your home and mark two exits for each room leading to outside. The exits can be a door or a window.

Test Your Smoke Alarms

There should be a smoke alarm located on each level of your home, in each bedroom, and near all sleeping areas.

Choose an Outside Meeting Place

Choose a meeting place for everyone to meet outside of your home. This could be in your front yard, backyard, or by a tree. Make sure everyone is aware of the spot and that it is far enough away from danger.  Don’t forget to dial 911 once you are outside.

Practice Home Fire Drill

Practice makes perfect! Be sure to go run the drill at least twice a year.

For more information on how to be prepared for a fire, visit NFPA.org. If your family suffers from a fire damage contact the professionals at SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia and Columbia. We are Here to Help®!

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

Can you PASS?

Imagine, a fire has just started in your home or business. It is contained, oxygen has not been depleted, and the room temperature has only slightly increased. Do you know how to use a fire extinguisher? Your adrenaline may be pumping when a fire occurs, so knowing how to operate one before is best.

Using an acronym, like PASS, will help in memorizing how to properly operate a fire extinguisher.

• PULL the pin.
• AIM low, pointing the nozzle at the base of the fire.
• SQUEEZE the handle.
• SWEEP from side to side at the base.

Remember, safety is always important. Evacuate immediately, if…

• The fire is not contained, smoke is feeling the room, and the temperature is hot.
• You have the slightest doubt of your ability to fight a fire.
• The extinguisher is empty and the fire is not out.

SERVPRO of Marshall, Sedalia and Columbia have the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home or business to pre-fire condition.

*Source: OSHA

Safe Grilling in Marshall, Sedalia and Columbia

5/13/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Marshall, Sedalia and Columbia is a leader in the fire and water cleanup and restoration.

Grilling season is here! We will now find our neighbors outside soaking up the sun and enjoying food from the grill. Grilling is one of the most popular ways to cook food. Whether you like the flavor of a charcoal grill or the convenience and control of a gas grill, outdoor grilling can be a fire hazard.

Preparing to Cook

• Use grills outside only
• Keep your grill clean
• If using a starter fluid, only use charcoal starter fluid (Charcoal grill)
• Check gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time of the year (Gas grill)

While Cooking

• Place them away from
  • Home
  • Deck
  • Low hanging branches
  • Children and pets
• Never leave your grill unattended

After Cooking

• Cool coals completely before disposing in a metal container (Charcoal grill)
• Do not place grill against structure

SERVPRO of Marshall, Sedalia and Columbia hope you use these tips to have a safe summer filled with gourmet grilling. If you are grilling a delicious meal, don’t hesitate to call. Happy grilling!

Smoke Alarm Safety in Marshall, Sedalia, & Columbia

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Do you have enough smoke alarms in your home?

Smoke alarms save lives. This statement is only true, if they are properly installed and maintained. According to Missouri Department of Public Safety, about 540 children (14 and under) die each year from home fires and 80 percent of those children did not have working smoke alarms in the home. What can you do keep your family safe?

Location

• Every Bedroom
• Every level
• Don’t forget basement and attic

Test & Replace

• Monthly by pressing the test button
• Replace batteries every year (daylight saving time)
• Replace unit every 10 years

Additional Tips

• Fire escape plan with two exits
• Practice fire drill
• Interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home

When fire and water damage take control of your life and home, SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia will help you take it back. We are here to help our neighbors.

Christmas Tree Disposal in Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia can help with your Christmas tree fire.

Christmas trees are a beautiful sight and many love to see them glowing with lights. However, no one wants to see one glowing because of a fire. It is very important to dispose of the tree once Christmas is over or the tree has dried out.

In many areas, Christmas trees are collected curbside during the first couple of weeks in January.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, half of the Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems or a heat source being too close. When Christmas tree fires do occur, they tend to be more serious fires.

If you experience a fire in your home, call the professionals at SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia. We are here to help you with your fire damage in your home. SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia hopes you can wrap up the holidays safely.

What to Do Until Help Arrives After a Fire in Marshall, Sedalia, & Columbia

10/15/2018 (Permalink)

Unsure what to do after a fire in your home or business? Call SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia.

If your home or business suffers a fire, you may be at loss on what steps to take next. The following tips may help reduce damage and increase your chances of a successful restoration.

Do:

• Limit movement in the property. It helps prevent soot particles from becoming embedded into your carpet and upholstery.
• Keep hands clean. It could further soil upholstery, walls, woodwork, etc.
• Cover upholstery, rugs, and carpet traffic areas by placing dry, colorfast towels or old linens on them.
• If electricity is off, empty refrigerator/freezer. Clean completely and prop open doors to help prevent odors.
• Change HVAC filters; leave system off until a trained professional can check them.
• Cover air registers with cheesecloth. Tape double layers to prevent soot particles from getting in or out of the HVAC system.
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.

When you experience a fire damage make sure to call the professionals at SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia. We are here to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Firework Safety in Marshall, Sedalia, & Columbia

6/28/2018 (Permalink)

Have a safe 4th of July!

Firework season is among us! They are often used for special events and holidays—most commonly 4^th of July. Fireworks can fill the sky with their beauty and create oohs and aahs from spectators, but they cause thousands of burns and eye injuries each year.

What you can do have a safe 4^th of July…

• BE CAREFUL!
• Keep a close on children and pets when fireworks are being used.
• Do not operate fireworks under the influence of alcohol.
• Always have a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby.
• Dispose of used fireworks by wetting and placing them in a metal trash can away from any building.

SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia wants you to have a safe 4^th of July. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Heating Safety Tips

2/1/2018 (Permalink)

Did your heating equipment cause a fire in your home or business? SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), half of home heating related fires occur in December, January, and February. Whether you are using the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable heater to keep you warm this winter, take these precautions to prevent a fire in your home or business.

Safety for Heating Equipment

• Keep heating equipment three feet from children, pets, and anything that could burn.
• Do not heat your home with your oven.
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
• Heating equipment and chimneys should be cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Always turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

If your heating equipment causes a fire in your home or business, call SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia. We understand how devastating a fire loss can be and how it can make your home or business unlivable or unsafe.

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Holiday Safety Tips for Marshall, Sedalia, & Columbia

12/8/2017 (Permalink)

According to National Fire Protection Agency, Christmas tree fires are not common, but when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious.

The holiday season is here and we are able to enjoy time with our family and friends. Decorations bring the holidays to light. Keep your holidays merry and bright with these tips to help prevent damage to your home when choosing, placing, and decorating the Christmas Tree. 

Christmas Tree Safety

Tree Selection

· Choose a tree with fresh, green needles

· Make sure the tree needles to not fall off when touched

Tree Placement

· Trim 2” from the base of the trunk, then place in tree stand

· Always place the tree at least 3 feet away from any heat source, including fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights.

· Do not block an exit with the tree

· Add water to the tree stand and water daily.

Tree Lighting

· Use lights that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.

· String of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections need to be replaced.

· Read manufacter’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.

· Do not use lit candles to decorate tree.

· Always turn off Christmas tree lights before going to bed or leaving home.

Tree Disposal

· Remove tree from home/business when it is dry.

· Do not place dry tree in home, garage, or placed up against your home outside.

· Find a local community recycling program to dispose of tree.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA.org), these Christmas Tree safety tips can reduce the chances of a fire ruining your holidays.

Please remember SERVPRO of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia is here to help you, if you find yourself faced with a holiday fire damage. We are available 24/7/365.

Deep Fried Turkey Safety for Marshall, Sedalia, & Columbia

11/10/2017 (Permalink)

Deep frying the turkey this year? Sounds delicious! Be careful this holiday season.

It is that time of the year again when family and friends come together for a feast. The highlighted dish for Thanksgiving is centered on the turkey. There are several ways to cook a turkey, but a favorite among some is deep fried. 

If you plan on deep frying a turkey this year, please keep the following tips in mind. SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia would like everyone to have a safe holiday with their family and friends.

• Thaw and Dry turkey completely before cooking.
  • Thaw the turkey in the refrigerator approximately 24 hours for every 5 pounds, according to The National Turkey Federation.
  • Ice or water that mixes can cause flare-ups
• Fryer Setup
  • Use fryer outdoors and away from decks, garages, home, and other structures.
  • Keep children and pets away from fryer
  • Use on a flat surface to avoid accidental tipping
  • Tank and burner should be 2 feet apart
• Measure the Oil
  • Avoid overfilling by reading the manufacturer’s instructions
• Be Prepared
  • Use oven mitts to protect hands and/or arms
  • Safety goggles to protect eyes
  • Have a grease-rated fire extinguisher nearby and ready
• Finishing Act
  • Remove pot from burner and place on level surface
  • Allow oil to cool overnight before disposing

Most importantly NEVER leave fryers unattended. Please be careful this holiday season and share these tips with your friends and family that enjoy fried turkey.

If you do become a victim of a deep-fryer fire, SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia is here to help. We are available 24/7/365 days a year. View our fire damage emergency tips to help minimize the damage to your home.

October is Fire Prevention Month – Every Second Counts

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

Developing and practicing a fire escape plan can increase your chance of survival in the event of a fire. Photo provided by NFPA.org.

Every second counts during a fire. In just a matter of moments, a small flame can turn into a major fire. Be prepared and have a fire escape plan in place, to increase your chance of survival. The best way to be prepared is having a fire escape plan and working smoke detectors in place.

The National Fire Protection Association designates one week in October to focus on fire prevention. This year, it begins on Sunday, October 8^th and ends on Saturday, October 14^th. Their theme this year is “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out!”

Fire Escape Planning Tips:

• Draw map of your home
• Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on upper levels
• Choose an outside meeting place
• Teach children how to escape on their own
• Practice your fire escape plan during the day and at night

SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia wants you to stay safe. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO® of Marshall, Sedalia, and Columbia to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

*Tips provided by National Fire Protection Association, nfpa.org.