Stay Warm, Stay Safe: The Ultimate Guide to Space Heater Safety in Summit, Lake, Park and Eagle Counties

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

Introduction: Embracing the winter season in Summit, Lake, Eagle and Park Counties, often means relying on space heaters for that extra warmth. However, to ensure a cozy winter without compromising safety, it's essential to use these devices with caution. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore best practices for space heater usage in your home, tailored to the unique needs of residents in Summit, Lake, Eagle and Park Counties.

1. Understanding the Risks: Space heaters, if not used properly, can pose significant fire hazards. It's crucial to understand potential risks such as overheating, electrical malfunctions, and the risk of combustible materials coming into contact with the heater.

2. Choosing the Right Space Heater: Begin by investing in a high-quality space heater with safety features. Look for units equipped with automatic shut-off switches, tip-over protection, and adjustable thermostats. Consider the size of your space to ensure the heater is appropriately sized for optimal safety and efficiency.

3. Location, Location, Location: Proper placement of your space heater is key. Maintain a minimum distance of three feet between the heater and flammable materials like curtains, furniture, bedding, and pets. Place the heater on a level, flat surface to reduce the risk of tipping.

4. Regular Maintenance Checks: Before the winter season kicks in, conduct a thorough maintenance check on your space heater. Inspect the cord for any damage, and ensure the plug is secure. Regularly clean the vents to prevent dust buildup, which can lead to overheating.

5. Plug it Right: Avoid overloading circuits by plugging your space heater directly into a wall outlet. Steer clear of extension cords or power strips, as they may not handle the power load, increasing the risk of electrical fires.

6. Never Leave it Unattended: Whether you're stepping out of the room or heading to bed, always turn off your space heater. Leaving it unattended heightens the risk of accidents, and the fleeting warmth isn't worth the potential consequences.

7. Educating Your Household: Ensure everyone in your household understands the importance of space heater safety. Establish clear rules for usage, and stress the potential dangers associated with misuse.

8. Carbon Monoxide Awareness: For those using fuel-burning space heaters, be vigilant about carbon monoxide emissions. Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home and never use these heaters in enclosed spaces without proper ventilation.

9. Emergency Preparedness: As part of your comprehensive winter safety plan, create a fire escape plan for your Summit, Lake, Eagle and Park Counties residence. Make sure all family members are familiar with exit routes and designate a meeting place outside the home.

Conclusion: With winter's chill settling in, space heaters offer a convenient solution for residents in Summit, Lake, Eagle and Park Counties. By following these guidelines and making informed choices, you can enjoy a warm and secure winter without compromising the safety of your home and loved ones. Stay warm, stay safe!

Fire Safety and Emergency Preparedness in Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties: Tips from Your Local SERVPRO® Team

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

In Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, where fire damage emergencies are a yearly concern, our local SERVPRO® teams from Golden and Evergreen are always ready to respond. Understanding the leading causes of residential fires—cooking, heating equipment, electrical distribution and lighting equipment, intentional, and smoking materials—we emphasize the importance of fire escape planning. Here are crucial tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to help keep your Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties home safe.

Fire Escape Planning Tips:

Create a Home Escape Plan: Draw a map of your home, marking all doors and windows. Discuss the escape plan with everyone in your household.

Identify Two Ways Out: Know at least two ways out of every room, ensuring all doors and windows leading outside open easily.

Designate a Meeting Place: Establish a designated meeting place a safe distance from the house (e.g., tree, mailbox, light pole) where everyone should gather after evacuating.

Practice Regularly: Conduct home fire drills at night and during the day, practicing at least twice a year with all members of your household. Practice using different exit routes to enhance preparedness.

Teach Children to Escape: Educate children on how to escape on their own in case assistance is not immediately available.

Close Doors During Evacuation: Close doors behind you as you leave to help slow the spread of fire and smoke.

Call Us Today: When fire damage strikes your Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties home or business, remember that our local SERVPRO® team is Here to Help.® Contact us today for prompt and efficient restoration services. We'll work tirelessly to restore your property "Like it never even happened."

Note: Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Fire damage restoration near me, Fire damage restoration companies near me, fire damage in Colorado Water Damage

7/4/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage and cleaning Soot in property

Residential Fire damage and Commercial Fire Damage Restoration, and Smoke Damage can occur at Any time. 

Our SERVPRO of Summit Team, can Solve this Problem for You. 

In attached Picture, Fire and Smoke damage occurred. These incidents can lead to Secondary Damages, if not Inspected Properly.

***For an Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-949-3235

Our Services include Fire Water Mold Biohazard Termite Remediation and Reconstruction   

Website:

https://www.SERVPROsummitlakeparkeaglecounties.com/company-profile

Check out our many 5 Star Google Reviews:

https://g.page/SERVPROofsummit?share

Certifications

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• CMT - Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician
• CRT - Color Repair Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• FCT - Floor Care (Hard Surfaces) Technician
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• LCT - Leather Cleaning Technician
• MSI - Marble and Stone Inspector
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• OSHA - Other Training
• RCT - Rug Cleaning Technician
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
• SMT - Stone, Masonry and Ceramic Tile Cleaning Technician
• UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

Affiliations

• American Red Cross Disaster Responder program
• Eco Friendly
• FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
• IICRC
• Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration
• Restoration Industry Association

Awards

• Certified Graduate Builder (CGB) Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) Graduate Master Builder (GMB)
• FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
• IICRC Applied Structural Drying

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties

***For an Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-949-3235140

Metcalf Road, Suite 6

Smoke damage companies near me, Smoke damage in Colorado, Smoke damage restoration companies near me,

7/4/2022 (Permalink)

We provide Fire damage estimates, and insurance property damage claims

Residential Smoke damage and Commercial Smoke Damage Restoration, and Smoke Damage can occur at Any time. 

Our SERVPRO of Summit Team, can Solve this Problem for You. 

Fire damage and Smoke damage, can lead to Secondary Damages, if not Inspected Properly.

***For an Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-949-3235

Our Services include Fire Water Mold Biohazard Termite Remediation and Reconstruction   

Website:

https://www.SERVPROsummitlakeparkeaglecounties.com/company-profile

Check out our many 5 Star Google Reviews:

https://g.page/SERVPROofsummit?share

Certifications

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• CMT - Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician
• CRT - Color Repair Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• FCT - Floor Care (Hard Surfaces) Technician
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• LCT - Leather Cleaning Technician
• MSI - Marble and Stone Inspector
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• OSHA - Other Training
• RCT - Rug Cleaning Technician
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
• SMT - Stone, Masonry and Ceramic Tile Cleaning Technician
• UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

Affiliations

• American Red Cross Disaster Responder program
• Eco Friendly
• FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
• IICRC
• Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration
• Restoration Industry Association

Awards

• Certified Graduate Builder (CGB) Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) Graduate Master Builder (GMB)
• FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
• IICRC Applied Structural Drying

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties

***For an Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-949-3235140

Metcalf Road, Suite 6

Fireplace Safety Tips for your Heeney Home

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

While a wood-burning fireplace adds warmth and comfort to a home during the colder months, safety should always be top of mind. The NFPA estimates that fireplaces and chimneys cause15,000 house fires per year in the United States.

 Creosote is a black or brown residue that can build up over time and could cause a fire.  It is important to make sure that your chimney is clean and safe for a fire.  Check out these tips to learn how to work and maintain a fireplace.

 Before that first fire of the season, check the chimney structure for cracks, loose bricks, or missing mortar.

• Keep the glass open to allow air to be drawn up to cool the chimney, but keep the screen closed to prevent sparks from jumping onto the carpeting.
• Do not burn paper in your fireplace.

• Use fireplace tools to handle burning logs. Never use your hands.
• Have a certified chimney sweep inspect and clean the chimney when necessary. Have him show you how to check it yourself, too.
• Put ashes in a metal container with a lid, outside, at least three feet from your home
• Put the fire out before you go to sleep or leave your home
• Fireplace coals can remain hot enough to start a fire for up to three days, so always wait at least that long before removing the ashes. 

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties has a team of highly trained technicians ready to respond to a fire damage emergency 24/7.  Call us today at 970-949-3235.

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers 

Certifications

• AMRT -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT -Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program
• FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST -Health and safety Technician
• OCT -Odor Control Technician
• RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
  WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technician
• IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

• ASBO
• EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
• Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

• Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

Where Should You Turn For The Best Fire Damage Removal Company in Vail?

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Homes burned down to the ground

The picturesque village of Vail is known worldwide and with good reason. This is one of the most beautiful locations in all of Colorado, with plenty to draw outdoor enthusiasts, from world-class skiing at the Vail Ski Resort to fishing in Gore Creek. From its natural wonders to the many local businesses, large and small, Vail attracts thousands of tourists annually.

Unfortunately, even this beautiful area is not immune to natural disasters, including the devastating effects of fire. Fire can strike without warning and leave behind a significant amount of damage in its wake. Flames, smoke, soot, and water can all take their toll and at times like this, you need a name you can trust to provide thorough and effective removal and restoration services.

It can be difficult to know where to turn, especially at such an emotional time, but that’s why SERVPRO is the name that stands out from the pack. SERVPRO has been providing quality professional fire damage removal and restoration for home and business owners for many years. Combining that record with the personal touch of a local business, SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park, and Eagle counties has earned a reputation as the best fire damage removal company in Vail, Colorado.

Understanding The Full Impact of Fire

The destruction caused by flames is the most obvious type of fire damage, but it’s really only the tip of the iceberg. Equally devastating is the lingering effect of smoke and soot, both of which can adhere to many surfaces and even become airborne, allowing them to spread even further.

As if all of this isn’t enough, the water used in firefighting efforts can also cause considerable damage, from destroying furniture and rotting wood to weakening support structures and opening your home to mold infestation.

With all of this potential for severe health hazards, it’s essential that all fire damage is addressed as quickly as possible so that your home or business will look “Like it never even happened”.

Call The Professionals For Help

There is no question that a fire can be traumatic and the after-effects can be emotional. When it comes to handling the cleanup you may feel as if you’re in over your head. At times like these, you need professionals you can count on and that’s where SERVPRO comes in. We understand the emotional and financial cost of fire damage and we offer full fire restoration services backed with the SERVPRO guarantee of speed and quality.

We’ll walk you through every phase of the fire damage removal process, from your initial call to restoration. We have someone prepared to take your call 24/7 and we will send one of our technicians to your property as quickly as possible to assess the damage and give you a complete estimate of all work that needs to be done.

We’ll begin the work by covering any holes in roofs or walls, then remove any standing water using our specialized, state-of-the-art equipment. Next, we’ll use powerful dehumidifiers and air movers to thoroughly dry all surfaces.  At the same time, we’ll specifically target soot and smoke damage using the most advanced techniques.

Of course, the end goal of fire damage removal is restoring your property to its previous condition. To reach that goal we’ll take any necessary steps including replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet. We know how devastating this time can be for you and your family and that’s why SERVPRO provides the professional restoration services you need so that you can focus on healing.

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers

Certifications

• AMRT -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD  -Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT -Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program
• FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST -Health and safety Technician
• OCT -Odor Control Technician
• RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
  WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technician
• IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

• ASBO
• EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
• Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

• Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

How does Smoke affect your Home?

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

House affected by smoke

How Smoke Damage Affects Your Home

Even small home fires can result in significant smoke damage. Taking a noticeable toll on your items and resulting in unseen damage to your home’s structure, the cleanup of smoke and soot is time-sensitive. Acidic in nature, it affects each surface of your house differently, rapidly taking its toll unless quickly and carefully addressed. Smoke affects various materials in different ways. Not only that but the temperature and type of the fire will cause different variations of smoke damage throughout your home. One of the worst ways that smoke can cause harm is by sneaking into small cracks and crevices since the particles are so delicate. They can often go undetected for a long time, leaving a lingering smell of smoke that can last for months. The only way to remove the odor from your home is to remove or clean affected items and clean your home's building materials with agents designed to remove the smell.

Also, the smoke particles put your health and your family at risk because they are toxic. The toxic ingredients are carbon monoxide, soot, tar, carbon dioxide, and harmful chemicals, depending on what burns. The microscopic particles are suspended in air and later settle as soot on whatever surfaces they land on. The soot and particles that settle on the clothes and furnishings severely irritate the skin. Breathing in these toxins over time will lead to health effects.

Remember, SERVPRO of Summit Lake, Park & Eagle Counties is ready to assist you after a fire with fire damage, smoke damage restoration, and help you get back to normal. Getting your home or business back to preloss condition as quickly as possible is our number one priority. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 970-949-3235.

Fire Damage Cleanup And Restoration

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

It's not just the fire... It's the soot that permeates the are that needs to be cleaned too

Fire can strike a home or business suddenly, with no warning, and that can leave you feeling disoriented, emotional and overwhelmed.

It can really catch you off guard and that’s perfectly understandable. Fortunately, in times like this residents of the Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties area don’t have to go it alone.

The professionals of SERVPRO are trained to handle fire damage cleanup and restoration so we’re ready for any situation.

As part of the community ourselves, we take pride in helping our neighbors so that this area can continue to be the vibrant, thriving locale that draws so many visitors.

With everything from gourmet restaurants to nature trails to attractions like The Museum of The West, there is so much to enjoy in the area and we don’t want the aftermath of a fire to take away from any of it.

Quick Response Makes All The Difference

When fire strikes it can leave behind two distinct types of damage: damage caused by the fire itself and damage caused by the fire-fighting efforts. Together, this can all take a terrible toll on any residence or commercial property.

The key to mitigating this damage is acting as quickly as possible and that’s why SERVPRO has staff ready to take your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We’ll get all of your information and send a trained technician to your property within four hours of that call to get the restoration process underway.

Once on site, our technicians will perform a complete walkthrough of your property, identifying and assessing all damage and then writing up a comprehensive plan to address it.

We’ll go over that plan with you before we do anything, so that you know exactly what to expect. We’ll even perform a thorough inventory of all damaged belongings as we work in order to help you file your insurance claim.

The Professional Approach To Cleanup And Restoration

Our professional cleanup and restoration services begin with boarding up windows and covering holes in the roof with tarp to prevent any further damage from the elements.

Then we employ submersible pumps and industrial strength wet/dry vacuums to remove any standing water. 

Next, professional grade air movers and dehumidifiers ensure that all surfaces are thoroughly dried and all excess moisture is removed from the air.

Finally, we’ll perform any necessary repairs including removing and replacing drywall and removing and replacing damaged carpet and flooring.

When we’re through, we’ll give you a complete walkthrough to make sure that you’re satisfied with what we’ve done.

A Name You Can Rely On

If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a fire don’t try to tackle it yourself.

Call SERVPRO, we service the entire Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties area. We are the name you can rely on for top quality fire damage cleanup and restoration with the personal touch. 

We’re guaranteed to respond faster to any disaster and we treat every property as if it were our own. There’s no need to feel overwhelmed when you’ve got SERVPRO on your side.

Your Source For Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Before and after image of items effected by soot

With all of the commercial properties in the town, the need for specialized commercial fire damage restoration services is particularly important.

Fortunately, SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties is prepared to offer the kind of attention that you expect for your commercial property for water, fire and storm damage restoration as well as mold remediation.

We’re part of the local business community ourselves so we understand how critical it is to have the restoration service you need when you need it most.

The Challenges of Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Any time a fire strikes it can be devastating, but that’s particularly true when your business is affected. Every minute that you have to remain closed can cost you thousands of dollars, so in times like these speed is absolutely crucial.

That’s why SERVPRO makes it our business to respond faster to any disaster. We have someone prepared to take your call 24/7 and can have our highly trained fire and water damage restoration specialists on site within four hours of that call.

We have the training, experience and equipment to handle fire damage restoration in any kind of business, from hotels to restaurants to office buildings.

Our technicians are trained in fire and smoke restoration, odor control, upholstery and fabric cleaning and water damage restoration, so you know that whatever comes up we’ll be able to handle it quickly and thoroughly. 

We also have Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, which is updated regularly to ensure that we’re always on the cutting edge.

SERVPRO’s Guarantee Gives You Peace of Mind

Because SERVPRO understands the need to move quickly when businesses are involved, we guarantee that we will respond faster to any disaster.

That means you can breathe easy knowing that your business will be back up and running as soon as possible. We also understand the particular complexities involved in providing restoration for commercial properties.

That’s why we use industrial strength, professional quality equipment to remove standing water, clean all surfaces and ensure that everything is thoroughly dried.

With the resources of a national network of over 1,700 franchises combined with the personalized touch of a locally owned and operated business, we are the name you can trust for all of your commercial fire damage restoration needs. We take pride in treating every property as if it were our own, so you can rest assured that your business will be restored to its pre-fire condition.

If fire strikes your commercial property it doesn’t have to mean that you’re out of business

With the professionals of SERVPRO in your corner, you can get your business back on its feet and be opening your doors to customers again in no time.

We do storm damage too.

Any questions or need help? 

Fire Damage Restoration Tips

7/3/2021 (Permalink)

Before and After

Vail is one of the most beautiful locations in all of Colorado. 

The village of Vail has so much to offer for outdoor enthusiasts, from skiing at the world class Vail Ski Resort to some of the best fishing you’ll find in the country in Gore Creek.

It’s no wonder that this area regularly draws thousands of tourists each year with attractions such as the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.

Unfortunately, all of the natural beauty of Vail doesn’t prevent it from experiencing its share of fires. When fire strikes, the residents and businesses of Vail need a professional restoration service they can count on and that’s where SERVPRO comes in.

We’re ready to respond 24/7 and provide the best quality restoration with our exceptional training and state of the art equipment.

Facing the prospect of restoring your property after a fire can be daunting.

Here are some handy tips that can help you through the restoration process:

• Limit movement in your home to prevent the spread and deeper embedding of soot particles.
• Keep your hands clean when working to prevent the further soiling of all surfaces.
• Place clean towels or old linens over rugs, upholstery and high traffic carpet areas to prevent further damage.
• If your electricity is off, remove all food from the refrigerator and freezer and prop the doors open to air it out.
• Clean and protect any chrome surfaces with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash all houseplants carefully, being sure to wipe both sides of leaves.
• Change your HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to prevent the spread of soot particles.

All of these steps can help to mitigate the damage and prevent soot from spreading even more, giving you a head start in the restoration process. 

Of course, the best possible thing you can do in these situations is to call SERVPRO and let our professionals handle the work. We have the necessary training to ensure that your property is thoroughly cleaned and returned to its previous condition and we’re guaranteed to respond faster to any disaster.

There are some things you should avoid doing, including washing walls, painted surfaces or carpeting yourself or cleaning electrical appliances and turning on ceiling fixtures in water damaged ceilings.

Safety is always first when it comes to fire restoration.

You should determine whether it is safe to remain in the house, taking particular account of any electrical or slip and fall hazards.

Only undertake restoration activities that are safe for you to handle and remember that wet material can be very heavy, so be careful when handling it.

Don’t assume you have to do everything yourself.

Call SERVPRO and let us handle the restoration process for you. We’re ready to take your call and send our trained technicians out to your property right away to begin the restoration.

With SERVPRO on your side, you’ll know your home is in the best possible hands.

Why Fire Damage Should Be Handled by Professionals

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

Fire is very dangerous and the results can be devastating

A fire can be one of the most devastating events in one's life.

In the aftermath, your first priority will likely be to clean up and restore your home. 

A professional team can serve you very well.

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers

Certifications

• AMRT   -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD     -Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT     -Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ECTP   -Employee Certification Training Program
• FSRT   -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST    -Health and safety Technician
• OCT    -Odor Control Technician
• RRRP  -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT   -Water Damage Restoration Technician
• IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

• ASBO
• EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
• Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

• Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

Fire Damage Restoration in Vail Colorado

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

The Beast Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Company

Fire can strike without warning and take a devastating toll on a home or business.

Because it usually happens suddenly, there is no way to be prepared for the damage caused by a fire. At times like that, you need a name you can trust, and in the Vail, Colorado area SERVPRO is ready to handle all of your fire damage restoration needs in a timely and thorough manner.

Thousands of people come to the Vail area every year to enjoy the natural splendor. From hiking to camping to skiing, there’s something for everyone here.

With destinations like the Sunlight Mountain Resort, there are plenty of ways to take advantage of everything the Vail area has to offer.

Unfortunately, that close access to nature can also leave homes and businesses exposed to the threat of wildfire, and that’s why all residents need to have restoration services they can count on.

What Kind of Damage Can Fires Cause?

When most people think of fire damage, they automatically picture burned and broken surfaces, scorched wood, and melted plastics and metals resulting from the extreme heat caused by flames.

While that’s certainly a big part of the equation, there is much more to fire damage, which needs to be considered when performing the restoration.

In addition to flames, smoke and soot can cause a tremendous amount of damage as well.

Smoke can permeate several surfaces, leaving behind noxious and often dangerous odors.

Depending on the specific type of surface, those odors can be deep-seated, requiring a thorough cleaning process. In some cases, items may be beyond restoring and will, unfortunately, have to be discarded.

At the same time, soot left behind after items burn can also produce a great deal of damage, coming to settle on any number of surfaces from wood and plastic to fabrics.

If it isn’t properly cleaned, soot can become a mess; it can become airborne in ducts and heating systems. Once it permeates the air, soot can end up on your walls, in your craws and cabinets, essentially almost everywhere in your home. It can leave a dirty, dingy look to your entire home. 

Perhaps the greatest factor in fire-related damage is actually water

The water used by firefighters in their efforts to put out the fire can cause more damage to homes, businesses, and belongings than the fire itself, and this damage will need to be carefully addressed to return your property to its previous condition.

 How To Properly Address Fire Damage

Since it’s usually impossible to avoid fire damage, it becomes more important to know how to address the damage once it occurs.

In every case, whether it involves a home or commercial property, speed is a primary concern.

The sooner you begin the restoration process, the better your chances of reversing it and the greater your chances of reducing your overall costs.

At SERVPRO, we understand this need for speed, which is why we will respond within one hour of your original call to begin the process of providing our services.

Within four hours of your call, one of our technicians will be on-site to perform a thorough assessment of your damage and recommend how to proceed. Within eight hours, we’ll supply your adjuster or property manager with a complete verbal briefing.

Of course, you’ll also want to contact your insurance agent and begin the process of filing a claim to get reimbursement for your losses. 

We can help you with that by providing a thorough inventory of all damaged surfaces and belongings so you can be sure nothing is being overlooked.

We can’t guarantee you a reimbursement, but we’ll do everything we can to help make the process that much easier for you.

Once we have determined the exact extent of damage, we can work up a plan to specifically address it so that we can get your home or business back to normal as quickly as possible.

As with all of our restoration services, our goal is always to make it “Like it never even happened,” and we’ll make every effort to reach that point, guiding you along the way step by step.

When Fire Strikes Call The Professionals

The aftermath of a fire can leave you in a state of shock and confusion, and that can make it hard to figure out what to do. That’s when it’s most important to call the professionals. We understand what it takes to restore your property after a fire, and we have the training and equipment to handle the job efficiently, making all the difference.

Not only are the professionals of SERVPRO ready to answer your call 24 hours/7 days a week, but once we have assessed your damage, we can draw up a comprehensive plan of action and provide you with a detailed explanation of exactly what we’ll do to restore your property.

We’ll begin with pre-testing all surfaces and items to determine exactly what can be restored and what will have to be discarded.

Once we begin the actual restoration process, we’ll employ the latest techniques learned through our expert training as well as high-tech equipment designed specifically to treat the kind of damage caused by fires.

Our specialized Ultra Low Volume (ULV) and Thermal foggers can help remove all hazardous odors from any surface type. In contrast, our industrial vacuums with HEPA filters can remove all water and help mitigate mold growth.

Air movers and dehumidifiers will thoroughly dry out your home, and we’ll even employ specialized techniques where necessary to address any belongs that we deem salvageable.

After the work is over, we’ll give you a complete walkthrough of the property to ensure that you are delighted with everything we’ve done.

Along the way, we can help you generate comprehensive room-by-room inventories to make the process of filing an insurance claim that much easier.

We understand how important it is to return your property to its previous state, and we’ll do everything we can to help get you through this difficult time as smoothly and easily as possible.

We’re In This With You

Fires are an all too common occurrence in the Aspen area, and as part of this community ourselves, SERVPRO understands just how devastating they can be.  When fire strikes, acting quickly and knowing the proper steps to take for repair and restoration can go a long way toward getting your home or business back to normal.

That’s why the most important step you can take is calling in the professionals of SERVPRO.  We’ve got the training and equipment to handle even the worst fire-related damage, and we make it our policy to restore every property as thoroughly as possible.

Like your neighbors, you can always rely on us to have your best interest at heart. 

At SERVPRO, we promise to respond faster to any disaster, and we have the resources to handle your fire restoration needs thoroughly and professionally.

With state-of-the-art equipment and certified training, you’ll know you’re getting the best quality help.

Fires can do a lot of damage, but with the professionals of SERVPRO in your corner, you’ll never have to face that challenge alone. 

24/7 Fire Damage Company

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage does not have a set time that it occurs. It typically happens when you least expect it. When that does happen, you need a 24/7 fire damage company to come to you and your family’s rescue. That’s what the heroes at SERVPRO® of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties do on a daily basis. We are available 24 hours of the day (including holidays), 7 days a week for your emergency needs. We’re Here to Help and to make that fire damage at your residential or commercial property "Like it never even happened."® 

Have you ever been on vacation, soaking up the rays, playing in the sand, enjoying that quality family time together on the beach? Then, you receive a phone call from your neighbor notifying you of that fire at your place? Or, perhaps, you’re at work, completing all your to-do items, exceeding all your goals, receiving compliments from your boss about the fantastic job you’re doing, telling you you’re a valuable asset? You’re just having a winning day. Then, you go home for lunch and, surprise, a fire in your kitchen. As you can see, fires can happen at the least unlikely time. 

When your home or business is hit with a fire, it’s vital you know what to do. Here are some fire damage emergency tips for you: 

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so you don’t further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator, and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change the HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

Our experienced and qualified heroes are faster to any size disaster and can get your property back to Like it never even happened.® We’re dedicated to responding immediately -- day or night -- to your home or business. A faster response helps to prevent secondary damage and to reduce costs.

If you have a fire at your home or business and need a 24/7 fire damage company, you can rely on SERVPRO® of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties. We are your local professional fire damage repair and restoration specialists. Will you give us your next restoration job? We’re just a click away and/or phone call away. Call 970-949-3235.

Recovering from Fire Damage: What To Do After A Fire Disaster

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Wildfire

1. Get in touch with your insurance agent as soon as possible.

One of the first phone calls you need to consider making after a fire disaster should be to your insurance provider.

One of the first phone calls you need to make should be to your insurance provider. Before you start planning ways on how to deal with the damage, inform your agent of the incident so you can go over the details of your insurance coverage.

Be sure to confirm if there are any inclusions in your policy that you may have missed or overlooked – like a living allowance or temporary accommodation assistance, perhaps. You also have to discuss the claims process and what you can do to speed things up.

Most importantly, don’t forget to advise the agent of your immediate fire damage remediation plans. Wait for the insurance company’s go signal before taking any action.

2. Ask for a copy of the fire report.

A fire report contains the critical details surrounding and contributing to the fire incident. It also includes basic information such as the date and time, the location, an account of the damage, and the source of the fire (if known). All this data is essential to your insurance claim.

Fire reports are public documents, so you shouldn’t have any problem requesting a copy.

3. Start the mitigation process.

Fire can continue to endanger lives and cause damage to property even after it has been put out. Weakened structures can cave in, and damaged pipes can burst. There’s also the risk of inhaling toxic chemicals from the smoke residue and complex mix of gasses released into the air.

It’s important to start fire damage mitigation as soon as possible, but this is not something that you should do on your own. Let a local fire damage mitigation company take care of that for you.

4. Keep a record of all the damaged items.

Homeowners insurance usually includes contents coverage, which means your policy will also cover the replacement cost of items destroyed in the fire. Insurers typically ask for an inventory of personal properties damaged during the fire. To ensure that everything is accounted for, create a register of your belongings, and document your losses.

As you secure and mitigate the damage on the property, make a list of all damaged items and photograph them for proof. If possible, include the date of purchase, price, a description of the items on the inventory, and online statements.

If you lost important documents in the fire – driver’s license, passport, birth certificates, deeds, and title, etc. – you’ll have to replace them immediately. Some of these documents are necessary for the claim. Ask your agents which documents are needed, and request for them first.

Preparing a detailed record of your possessions and documentations beforehand will save you time and may help expedite the claim.

4. Clean the property and move undamaged items.

Fire disasters often leave the property looking dark, stained, and scorched. Thus, the fire damage cleanup and restoration crew usually spends the first phase of the clean-up scrubbing soot, smoke, and dust that stuck on the surfaces.

The next phase is water damage restoration. During this part of the clean-up, standing pools of water are removed by using submersible pumps. Afterward, these areas undergo drying and sanitation. Sanitation is vital to prevent any health effects due to water contamination.

Another critical issue that fire damage restoration professionals address is the odor. When smoke enters a room, it usually leaves behind an unpleasant stench that tends to stick on walls, carpets, upholstery, etc. Areas directly affected by the fire and the rooms nearby have to be cleaned and deodorized.

The final part of the clean-up involves segregating the damaged from undamaged items. Allocate storage space for the things that look good enough to keep and set them up for cleaning. Anything that’s badly burned or soaked in water should be disposed of properly – ask the restoration company if they can do that for you.

5. The restoration process.

Rebuilding a home after a fire can be very costly. As such, you need to document all the repair and replacement expenses to prove the extent of your loss and recovery costs. The claims process will move quicker if you’ve got all the requirements ready. Should you any need help with your insurance claims, you can ask your restoration contractor for help.

Restoration brings your home back to its pre-damaged state so you and your family can go back to living your normal lives. Most restoration companies offer a wide range of services. They can help you in almost all aspects of the process, from repairing furniture to installing new walls.

Some fire damage restoration companies, however, can do more than just restore the property. They also offer renovation services, so your home ends up looking even better than it did before.

Preventing Fires at Home

Recovering from a fire disaster is a fulfilling and rewarding feat, but it’s not something you wish to experience or go through again. Preventing house fires can be as easy as installing a smoke detector or keeping a fire extinguisher at home. Even the simplest safety measures can make a big difference.

Many local fire damage restoration companies also provide fire prevention consultation services. Should you need any advice on how to better equip your home against fire risks, ask a pro.

How Boarding Up Can Save Your Home After a Fire

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

Board up services can make it possible to keep your house safe

The damage from a house fire can be widespread and the water used to fight a fire is also destructive. On occasion, firefighters may need to chop through parts of a roof or wall in order to gain access to the fire, leaving your home in Frisco, CO, open to further damage and making it necessary to board up exposed openings as soon as possible.

Why is an Emergency Board Up Necessary?

Boarding up a home after a fire may be crucial to the protection of your home. Weather can wreak havoc with your home’s contents. Raccoons and other pests can get inside and make a mess of things. Looters may take any valuables found in your home. Boarding up the home can help protect your contents and privacy.

What is Involved in Boarding Up Your Home?
There are a couple of ways damaged openings in your house can be covered. The main goal is to secure the openings so no one can get inside and to protect from the weather so materials used must be suited to the task. The following are some ways this can be accomplished.

Tarping - A length of tarp spans a roof opening and the edges are fastened down using pieces of wood or by directly nailing them down
Plywood - Sheets of plywood are used to close up window or door openings and fastened in place with screws
2”x4”s can be used to cover smaller openings as needed

Who Can Help Board Up Your Home?
A professional fire damage restoration company in Frisco, CO, will offer board up services and will be able to help secure your home following a house fire. They can also help with fire damage, water, and smoke damage. It will likely be too large a task to handle alone.
Board up services can make it possible to keep your house safe and prevent would-be intruders or pests from causing further destruction following a fire disaster. It is one way to help keep a bad situation from becoming worse.

What Does Renter's Insurance Cover in a Fire?

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

As a tenant, it is important to understand what your responsibility is and what should be taken care of by your landlord.

The specifics of what renters insurance covers in an emergency situation can be confusing for both tenants and landlords. Here is some information on what a renters policy is and what it covers in the case of a fire.

What Does Renters Insurance Cover?

Anyone who rents an apartment or home should obtain renters insurance. In fact, many landlords refuse to rent out their property to anyone without this type of policy. The main purpose of this type of plan is to cover a tenant’s personal belongings, provide liability coverage, and cover the costs of additional living expenses if the rented home is temporarily uninhabitable. Most policies provide coverage in the following situations:

Theft
Damage to a vehicle if on the property
Injury caused by pets
Fire damage
Lightning
Wind and hailstorms
Falling objects
Freezing and weigh from ice and snow

Most policies will not cover damage caused by pets, pest infestations, flooding, and accidental damage to belongings.

How Does Renters Insurance Help in the Case of Fire?

Any fire restoration services needed to repair the home where the tenant lives is the landlord’s responsibility to cover. However, renter insurance can pay for the cost of restoring the tenant’s belongings or replacing them completely. Apart from arson, the tenant should have coverage in every situation, even if due to negligence. The policy should also cover the costs if someone else, such as a guest or tenant in another property, suffers any injury due to the fire. If the home needs to be repaired and can’t be lived in for a period of time, renters insurance can pay for the cost of living in a hotel or other dwelling.

Renters insurance protects tenants if a fire ever occurs in their rental home. For this reason, you should never go without coverage if you're renting your home.

How a Home Fire Safety Plan Can Protect Your Family

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Once you have completed a few drills, it can be useful to run a surprise drill to simulate an actual emergency.

It’s hard to imagine a fire happening in your Colorado home. Fires can be devastating, and bolstering your fire readiness with a fire escape plan is the key to protecting your property and your family. This discussion may help you formulate the best plan for your situation.

Designing Your Fire-Readiness Plan

Organizing a safety meeting for your family is the first step. The goal is to create an emergency escape plan that will enable everyone to evacuate the house safely and quickly. Consider the following suggestions:

Walking through the house with your family will allow you to identify two exits from each room.
Placing an escape ladder in upper-story rooms will ensure window evacuation is possible.
Setting a meeting place across or down the street will allow you to account for all family members after an evacuation.

Checking the visibility of your house number from the road will help fire services locate you.
Posting a map in the house that clearly locates the meeting place and escape routes can be a helpful reference.

Once you have created your fire escape plan, it may ease your mind to have a local fire remediation expert review it. You are then ready to test your plan.

Testing Your Evacuation Plan

Scheduling home fire drills is the best way to practice your plan. It’s recommended to have a drill twice a year, with every family member participating. It may help to start with a daytime drill, so escape routes are visible. For the first night time drill, you can give your family some warning then, during the night, begin the drill by pressing the test button on your smoke alarm. 

If you should have a home fire, a comprehensive fire escape plan will help ensure you are able to quickly evacuate your home. When your family has practiced the plan, they will likely be calmer in the confusion of an actual emergency. The sooner you can evacuate and call for help, the sooner the situation can be under control.

What To Do When Your Smoke Alarm Is Beeping

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Each alarm should be replaced once every 10 years.

A beeping smoke alarm isn't just an annoying inconvenience. If your fire alarm keeps chirping, then there is probably something wrong with it. That could put you and your family at risk.
After all, if your smoke alarm continues to beep constantly, you and your loved ones won't know when there is an actual fire in your home. By the time you smell the smoke or see the flames, it may be too late. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to fix the problem and prevent the need for major fire damage cleanup.

Reset the Detector

Sometimes all you need to do to fix an electronic device is reset it. While it is fairly easy to reset a television or computer, the process is a bit more complicated with a fire alarm. You need to turn off the requisite part of the circuit breaker and remove the power source or battery. Next, hold the test button down for 15 to 20 seconds before restoring the power.

Change the Batteries

Your smoke detector may be chirping because its batteries are low. Even if your smoke detector isn't beeping constantly, you should still change the batteries every six months to prevent severe fire damage to your home. Make sure the new batteries are facing the right direction when you install them.

Remove Dust

Debris can also cause your smoke alarm to malfunction. Try using an air blower to remove any dust from the detector's vents.

Buy a New Alarm

If all else fails, you can always purchase a new fire detector for your home. 

Following the above steps will keep your fire alarm functioning. This will not just get rid of that obnoxious beeping noise; it can also limit the harm to your Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, CO home in the event of a fire. Whatever smoke damage does occur can be addressed with the help of fire cleanup and restoration services.

6 Tips to Avoid Kitchen Fires

10/13/2019 (Permalink)

When it's time to cook, focus on cooking.

Six Tips To Avoid a Kitchen Fire

Nearly 31 percent of all fires happen in residential homes. Of those, approximately half of them start in the kitchen. To keep your home in Vail, CO, protected, below are six tips to avoid a kitchen fire and extensive fire damage.

1. Keep It Clean

When it comes to tips, the easiest one is to keep things clean. Regularly inspect and service appliances to ensure they function properly. This includes disposing of toaster crumbs and cleaning the oven and microwave. Particles left behind could potentially ignite.

2. Unplug Small Appliances

Along with being energy efficient, unplugging toasters, mixers and other small appliances is a good habit. If they are older models, the wiring could begin to fail. If left plugged in, it could overheat and cause a fire.

3. Install and Maintain a Smoke Detector

A smoke detector is the first line of defense in fire safety. One should be installed near the kitchen but not in it so cooking smoke or steam doesn’t set it off. Be sure to change the batteries every six months to ensure it can be counted on.

4. Eliminate Buildup

A grease fire can happen when too much of it is being used and splatters. If it does spill over and is forgotten, it still retains its flammable properties.

5. Stay Involved

Like driving, when it’s time to cook, focus on cooking. When preparing food, items on the stove or in the oven should never be left unattended. Food can quickly bubble over or begin to burn.

6. Keep Fabrics Away

While cooking, avoid wearing long sleeves, which could easily catch fire. Keep towels, oven mitts and any paper products away from burners. Even the best chef has likely forgotten to turn off a burner. In the even that happens, making it habit to keep flammable objects away will keep a fire at bay.
These simple tips are easy ways to ensure the kitchen remains a safe zone. Changing a few habits can help you avoid needing professional help with fire damage cleanup.

The Difference between Structure Fire Smoke and Wildfire Smoke

7/7/2019 (Permalink)

No debate needing, inhaling smoke from any type of fire can be hazardous to your health. Smoke inhalation is the most common cause of death in house fires. Just a few minutes of exposure to thick smoke can cause brain damage or even death.

As restoration contractors, we usually aren’t faced with that immediate, thick smoke, but dangers still remain after the fire is out – whether it’s dealing with structural damage from a large house fire, or smoke odor removal following a wildfire.

House Fire Smoke

There are more than one million house fires in the U.S. each year, meaning there are a lot of fire jobs out there for restoration companies. The biggest dangers post-fire come from VOCs (volatile organic compounds) found in the air that have been released from contents within the structure. For example, when some materials burn – like synthetic rubber, plastic, or foam – they can release cyanide into the air. Those substances are commonly found in furniture, clothing, Tupperware, and so much more within any structure.

Research published by the National Institutes of Health back in 2002 said, “During the past 50 years, synthetic polymers have been introduced in buildings in very large quantities. Many contain nitrogen or halogens, resulting in the release of hydrogen cyanide and inorganic acids in fire smoke as additional threats.”

Exposure to these VOCs can cause permanent health issues, which is why proper PPE is critical during fire jobs, especially during the initially scoping, estimating, and demo phase if the fire was severe.

Wildfire Smoke

Wildfire smoke also carries fine particles that can be dangerous when inhaled. These particles tend to come from more organic sources, versus the synthetic sources we talked about above from house fires. When thinking about wildfire smoke, think about burning trees and other plant materials, and just how dense the air can get when the fire is nearby. Add to that litter, synthetic compounds from local structures that have burned, and ash, and it’s a recipe for disaster for human health – even after the fire.

When remediating a structure affected by wildfire smoke, it is important to remember to clean air ducts as well because it’s likely even the most inner parts of the structure have been touched by the smoke and soot.

Protection during Fire Damage Remediation

Here are some quick tips to keep your team safe during fire jobs, no matter the cause or source of the fire.

1. Wear proper PPE. This includes respirators, and doing proper fit tests for them! A dust mask is not enough.
2. Avoid direct contact with anything directly affected by the fire. Again, this is why PPE is critical. If you handle affected items with bare hands, it is easy for contaminants to transfer into your body.
3. Use equipment, like HEPA vacs, that are able to filter out small particles.
4. Ventilate the area where you are working if possible. But remember, if the smoke damage has not affected the HVAC system, turning that system on before remediating the smoke damage and odor could cause the odor and soot to be circulated throughout an entire building instead of contained to a certain area.
5. Consider having IAQ testing done to determine VOCs in the air and establish a scope of work and remediation protocol.

Common Fire Hazards in the Home

6/7/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Hazards in the Home

House fires can happen in the blink of an eye if we aren’t careful. There are easy every day hazards we could avoid to help reduce the chance of a fire in your home.

Common Fire Hazards in the Home:

1. Candles: Many candle fires are started due to unattended candle usage. Candles should not be left burning for hours at a time and its highly recommended to not use in the bedroom.
2. Cooking: Kitchen fires are some of the top places home fires start. Never leave cooking unattended. If you leave turn off the burner, oven, or microwave. Clean your oven regularly and the rest of the kitchen appliances. Keep kids and pets clear of cooking areas and always turn pot handles in.
3. Electrical fire: Use safe appliances. Keep appliances on level surfaces and remember to turn off all electrical appliances when not in use
4. Matches and lighters: Keep out of reach of children. Make sure they are completely out when done using and if a lighter use all safety measures.
5. Smoking materials: The misuse of products like cigarettes and pipes can cause house fires too. Make sure to put out all cigarettes and follow all guidelines for electrical smoking devices

These are just a few tips to help keep your home safe

Wildfire Recovery & Restoration – How to Restore Your Ski Country Home & Clean Up After a Wildfire

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

When Wildfire Takes Control of Your Life, we help you take it back. [Pamphlet]. (2011). SERVPRO.com 47014

When wildfire takes control of your life, SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties helps you take it back. As local residents of Colorado’s Ski Country, we know that wildland fires have made an unfortunate impact on many of us this season.

Ski Country Wildfire Restoration Pros

When a wildfire hits too close to your home, the results can be especially overwhelming. Cleaning up after a wildfire takes specific knowledge and skills. Since our team members live here in the Colorado mountains, we are very familiar with wildfire cleanup, and we know exactly what techniques to use to help you get your property back to preloss condition.

We will help guide you through your wildfire cleanup and restoration project, as well as offer some helpful tips on what to do after you’ve experienced a wildland fire event – like how to tackle the fire retardant solution your home was doused with.

Keep reading to learn more.

Wildfire Retardant Clean-up Experts

One of the hardest parts about cleaning up your property after a wildfire is tackling the reddish-pink fire retardant that firefighters may have dumped on and around your home. While this fire retardant may have saved your home from the wildfire, it can be very difficult to clean off of surfaces, and it does contain ammonia – which can over-dry and sting your skin if you come into contact with it.

Since firefighters drop large amounts of fire retardant on structures to protect them from burning, there may be a substantial amount of the substance left on your home after the fire has been contained.

Call Us at 970-949-3235 for help with your wildfire damage event – we respond quickly and can get to work with cleanup immediately.

For more help, check out these Fire Retardant Clean-up Tips:

• Wash retardant off as soon as possible. If the retardant solution has dried and is present for several days in the hot sunshine some discoloration may result.
• To remove retardant solutions from smooth surfaces, use a garden hose to wet the surface followed by scrubbing to clean the surface.
• Some products may discolor or corrode metal. Corrosion generally occurs over a prolonged period. Unless removed from painted surfaces before the retardant dries, it is possible that fading may occur.
• The highly colored, fine particles (iron oxide or rust that make the drop more visible to pilots) present in fire retardant can be very stubborn to remove from rough or porous surfaces such as stone and rock. Use clean-up procedures that do not have a tendency to drive the color pigment deeper into the rough, uneven surfaces.
• Rinse retardant off of vegetation like trees as soon as possible to avoid leaf “burning”.

Learn more about Wildland Fire Retardant Clean-up.

Call us at 970-949-3235 for immediate help with your wildfire restoration project. Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond fast to your Ski Country fire damage event.

Fire Damage Restoration – Mitigating Fire Damage from Small and Large Fires in the High Rockies

8/14/2018 (Permalink)

This photo shows significant fire damage that resulted from a large garage fire in Salida, Colorado.

If your home or business in the High Rockies suffers fire damage, it can be especially devastating. Not only does the actual fire and smoke cause damage, but your property may have suffered water damage from firefighting efforts. You’ll need a team of trained and caring experts to guide you through the fire damage restoration process.

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties has the specialized knowledge, fire damage and water damage equipment to help mitigate the damage and restore your property back to its original condition.

We are available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, and because we’re locally owned and operated, we respond fast to your fire damage event in the High Rockies, and we will begin helping you as soon as we arrive.

Small & Large Fires Both Cause Big Damage

Small fires are treated no differently than large fires at SERVPRO. The photo above shows the damage from a large garage fire in Salida, Colorado. The fire caused significant damage to the entire garage and the living quarters above it. We were able to arrive quickly and begin mitigating immediately. We cleaned up and restored the garage and upstairs bedrooms, which included reconstruction services.

While that was an example of the damage a large fire can cause, even small fires, like a small bedroom fire, will still smoke out most of the home, causing smoke damage to areas the fire didn’t actually reach.

See our photo gallery for more examples of fire damaged properties that we have cleaned up and restored.

How to Handle Fire Damage in Your Home or Business

We know fires can be very traumatic events. If you suffer a fire damage event, remember 2 things – 1. Call us 24/7 at 970-949-3235 for emergency services, and 2. Follow the fire damage emergency tips below to protect yourself and your property.

Fire Damage Emergency Tips

DO-

• Limit movement within property to avoid embedding soot particles into upholstery and carpets.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.

DON’T-

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.

Ski Country Smoke and Soot Cleanup

6/22/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Ski Country Home.

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Summit will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (970)949-3235