Recent Fire Damage Posts

Safety Precautions for a Summer BBQ Without Fire Hazards | SERVPRO of North Kenosha County

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Man holding tongs above grill preparing food outdoors Have you had a barbeque gone wrong? Call SERVPRO of North Kenosha County to get your space back in shape.

With summer arriving, everyone is ready for fun in the sun and cookouts with family and friends. It’s crucial to prioritize safety to prevent dangerous situations and potential fires when you’re grilling out this summer.

Remember, Kenosha County residents are not to start recreational fires when wind speeds exceed 15 mph. Make sure to always double-check Kenosha regulations before grilling or having outdoor fires.

In addition to checking community regulations, these essential precautions will help you to ensure a delightful summer BBQ experience while keeping fire hazards at bay:

<h2the-right-spot-for-your-grill">Finding the Right Spot for Your Grill

When it comes to grilling safety, the first step is selecting an appropriate location for your grill. Keep it outdoors, away from enclosed spaces such as garages or awnings. Proper ventilation is an absolute must.

Also, make sure to check that there are no flammable materials positioned above the grill that could pose a fire risk. Maintain a distance of at least 10 feet between the grill and your house or wooden deck railing. Additionally, create a designated area free from children and pets to avoid safety risks.

Before using a charcoal grill, thoroughly inspect it for any accumulated ash, dents or cracks. For propane grills, carefully examine the gas lines for leaks and ensure secure connections. Addressing any issues with leaky lines or propane tanks is crucial to prevent hazardous fire situations.

<h2flames-with-caution">Handling Flames With Caution

It’s essential to be close by while grilling and to have a water source near by as a safety precaution. Flare-ups can be controlled using a spray bottle, and having access to a hose or fire extinguisher is important.

When you’ve finished cooking, pass the food to someone else and remember to turn off the gas or close the vents for charcoal grills to cut off the oxygen supply. Always dispose of ash and embers in a metal can to eliminate potential fire hazards, even after the grilling is complete. Make sure the grill has completely cooled down before calling it a day.

<h2a-fun-safe-summer">Have a Fun, Safe Summer

Kenosha residents, we hope you and your family have a safe and memory-filled summer. However, in the event of a fire incident during your BBQ, remember that SERVPRO of North Kenosha County is always ready to save the day.

Don’t let fire damage linger in your home. Call us at SERVPRO of North Kenosha County for a fast restoration.

The Ins and Outs of Backyard Fires | SERVPRO of North Kenosha County

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

campfire-style fire pit with flames emerging from the top of the logs on the dark green grass Bonfire season is upon us! SERVPRO of North Kenosha County has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.

The summer season is coming to a close and it is time to start embracing the chill in the air already. It’s the fall season in Kenosha County! While you are busy pulling out fall decorations, indulging in all the pumpkin spice and enjoying lazy Sundays watching football, we bet you also like to spend more time outdoors enjoying the changing seasons.

Bonfires can be a really great way to unwind and relax outside, but they can be dangerous at this time of year if not taken seriously.

Our SERVPRO of North Kenosha County wants you to enjoy your fire, s’mores and family time without the risk of starting a wildfire, so read on to learn more about fall fire safety.

<h3your-fire">Starting Your Fire

Do find a safe location for your fire pit. Permanent pits may not be able to be moved, but you can ensure any brush or log piles are moved away and the trees are trimmed above the ring.

Do keep a water source close by just in case. A hose or a bucket of water can quickly extinguish any flames and should be ready to use at any time. If you don’t have water close by to use, keep a shovel on hand so you can shovel sand or dirt on any growing flames.

Do keep an eye on the weather conditions or any local burn bans. Windy days or dry conditions can make it really easy for even the smallest of fires to grow too fast or out of control. Choose another day if the conditions aren’t safe.

<h3for-maintaining-the-fire">Tips for Maintaining the Fire

Don’t use gas or lighter fluid to revive a dying fire. Yes, these substances are really flammable but they are also unpredictable, so using them in an uncontrolled setting is really dangerous.

Don’t let your children play near the flames, especially if you aren’t close by. Accidents happen in seconds and can lead to injury or a situation that causes the fire to spiral out of control.

Don’t let your fire grow too large. The taller and wider the flames, the harder they are to control. Keep it small and only feed it with necessary tinder to keep it going.

Don’t head inside until you are sure the fire is completely out. Pour water over the flames and embers until everything is cold to the touch and extinguished.

<h3wildfires-in-your-community">Preventing Wildfires in Your Community

While we all know that Mother Nature can be brutal and can start wildfires in any manner of ways, the unfortunate truth is that most wildfires are caused by humans. Reduce your risk of starting a wildfire by being responsible with flames and ensuring they are extinguished at night.

We are here for you if your home or property is ever damaged by a fire. Just call us and we will jump into action to help you recover faster.

Fire can cause a lot of damage in a short amount of time. Contact us day or night for immediate assistance.

Make Fire Safety Fun for Your Kenosha Kiddos | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

6/14/2023 (Permalink)

Young boy staring at a lit match being held between his fingers SERVPRO of North Kenosha County is here for you and your family if you experience a fire in your home or business.

Raising children comes with a number of challenges, and ensuring your child’s safety stands out as one of the biggest priorities. Even as children grow older and become adults, fire safety is a vital topic that should never be overlooked.

Teaching fire safety to young children may seem overwhelming initially, but it is an important step toward keeping everyone in your home safe and informed. There are numerous approaches to the topic that will not overwhelm you or your kiddos!

Fire safety can be a fun and informative lesson that the whole family can get in on. Here are some ideas as you work to keep you Kenosha household fire-informed:

Explain the Dangers of Fire

While it can be difficult for them to understand outcomes without seeing the real repercussions, children learn topics best through exposure. Talk about the typical places where fires might start in your home, and show your kids the rooms and items (like the stove or a fireplace) that are the most dangerous.

Talk about the dangers of matches and lighters so they understand how to handle these hazardous items. Tell children to bring any matches or lighters they find right to you, emphasizing the havoc even a single tiny match or lighter might start.

Familiarize Them With Authority

Seeing a firefighter in full uniform can be scary for children (and even adults), so it helps to regularly expose kids to books and videos about firefighters to help alleviate any fears they may have. Look for meet-and-greet events near you that will allow your child to interact with these essential heroes in an open setting.

These exposure exercises will teach your children to trust these people, especially when they need them the most, such as during a house fire. You can prepare kids for an event like this without putting them under too much strain by incorporating a game into the mix, such as seeing who can stop, drop and roll the fastest!

Make a Game Plan Together

To ensure everyone in your household is prepared for a fire emergency, you’ll need to put together a fire escape strategy. Involve your kids in the making of your escape plan to make them more likely to retain the essential information you brainstorm as a family.

You should also explain how your windows work so that your children know how to open them in an emergency. This is valuable knowledge to remember in the case of a fire, but it could potentially endanger a young child. Remind kids that opening windows should only be done as a last option during a fire emergency.

To wrap up your fire safety lesson, let your kids choose a safe location you can all reach after escaping during a fire emergency. After running over the plan, go through the process of contacting authorities so they know who to call when flames emerge.

Fires can cause widespread damage. Call us for a thorough and efficient restoration.

The Components a Fire Needs In Order to Survive | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

1/30/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business has any damage, SERVPRO of North Kenosha County is ready around the clock to help you recover.

Imagine a three-dimensional triangle. If it has a square base, you’ve got yourself a pyramid. But if it has a triangular base, you’re thinking of a tetrahedron. Forgive the geometry lesson, but we’re going somewhere.

Fire agencies and scientists use the fire tetrahedron to visually depict the four essential elements of every fire.

These are the things that must be present in order for a fire to begin—and all four must continue in order for a fire to grow and continue. Let’s look at the sides and see what we can learn about fire safety from them.

<h34-things-a-fire-needs-to-live">The 4 Things a Fire Needs to Live

Fuel. If a fire happens in the forest, but there’s nothing for it to burn, well then it can’t happen—it won’t happen. A fire can’t start without a combustible material to devour.

Heat. If the combustible material doesn’t reach a certain temperature threshold, it won’t ignite. This is why a sudden burst of flame from, say, a gas grill, may not necessarily ignite other things around it.

Oxygen. In the same way a fire can’t start with no fuel source, it couldn’t start in a vacuum. Oxygen feeds the hungry flames and allows the fire to continue.

Chemical Chain Reaction. All three of the previous elements have to keep happening, and the oxygen in particular is necessary for the chain reaction, which perpetuates the churning and expansion of the fire.

<h34-ways-to-stop-a-fire">The 4 Ways to Stop a Fire

Cool it. We say fire, you say water—it’s that engrained in us. The most common way to fight a fire is by dousing it with water, but it’s more about temperature than substance. Water is the quickest accessible way to cool the burning material and restore a thermal balance—that is, a temperature at which the rate of cooling is greater than the rate of rising heat.

Smother it. Most fire extinguishers accomplish the task of smothering a fire by depriving it of access to the oxygen in the atmosphere. This is also how “stop, drop and roll” works—it’s not just a thing to make you look silly while you’re also on fire.

Starve it. This happens when there’s nothing left for a fire to consume, either because it’s totally obliterated whatever it was feasting on, or because surrounding fuel sources get removed before they can combust.

Interrupt the chain reaction. This one’s a little more intensely scientific, but certain chemical agents, such as halon, can be introduced into the atmosphere surrounding a fire, and they can actually interact with the oxygen and break up the chan reaction that keeps a fire going. Halon is actually great at this, but its production has been halted because it has a negative impact on the ozone layer.

If the fire tetrahedron makes a wreck of your home or business, we’re ready around the clock to help you recover. Contact SERVPRO anytime for fast, thorough cleanup and recovery after a fire.

Fires at Home Start in These 5 Ways | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

1/9/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO of West Milwaukee are here for you if your home is affected by fire.

Well over a million fires are reported to local agencies each year, and while most of them occur in natural or industrial settings, more than 25% of all reported fires happen at home, and so do over 75% of all home fire fatalities.

Statistically speaking, it’s interesting to know what the causes of these home fires are, and it can help you know where to focus your energy regarding fire safety. So let’s take a look.

Cooking. Add any two whole numbers together, and the chances that your result will be either even or odd are a statistical tie. The same goes for predicting whether a home fire will start in the kitchen: It’s the kitchen vs. the rest of the field. Half of all fires start here, and the main culprit is unattended cooking.

Heating equipment. When the weather cools down, the heaters come out. While your HVAC or natural gas can malfunction and cause fires, a main cause of fall and winter fires is the plucky little appliance called the space heater. Known to overheat, tip over or overload power supply lines, these little devices create a surprising number of issues. Make sure to upgrade to a newer model with safety feathers, and always heat safely away from flammable materials, regardless of the source.

Electrical fires. It only takes a spark to get a fire going, and with all the wiring running through your home, there’s plenty of opportunities for sparks to ignite. Never plug appliances into loose or troublesome outlets, be careful not to overload lighting fixtures with high-watt bulbs, and routinely let a pro examine your system for needed maintenance or upgrades.

Intentional fires. A reported 28,000 intentional home fires are set each year by someone purposely using ignition sources to set a piece of property ablaze. It’s almost as sad as…

Smoking materials. The leading cause of home fire deaths is the least common cause of home fires. Though only 5% of house fires begin this way, the circumstances often surrounding the fires, plus the added effect of carbon monoxide poisoning, create a deadly combination. If you smoke, always do it with utmost caution, and never smoke in bed or while you’re impaired or groggy.

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO is here for you if your home is affected by fire. Contact your local team today to see how we can help.

There’s No Time for Waiting When Your Home Is Damaged | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

If a fire issue pops up during the holidays, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry, SERVPRO of North Kenosha County.

Nobody likes to wait, and being made to wait is even worse. If you’ve ever had a 10-minute doctor visit extended to an hour or more due to time spent in the waiting room, you know exactly what we mean.

Waiting can be a simple matter of inconvenience, or in some cases it can be a matter of potential harm. Such is the case when it comes to sudden damage to your home or business—waiting not only means your cleanup and recovery starts later, but it also means the damage is made worse in the meantime.

That’s why SERVPRO never closes up shop. We’re available every hour of every day, because we know water and fire don’t wait for office hours and business days.

After a fire. The initial destruction from the flames is only the beginning. Once the fire settles, you’ve got to deal with soot, the black sludge that covers walls, furniture and more in the wake of a fire. Soot takes hold in minutes, its microscopic particles clinging to every molecule.

In a few short hours, the hold of soot and the stench of smoke are made permanent on affected surfaces in your home, meaning they can’t simply be cleaned; they have to be replaced. Fast action can save or prevent this.

After water damage. Once water invades, there’s a short window that exists between initial soaking and further issues, mold being one of those. In only 48 hours (and possibly less), your home has mold growing in dampened areas.

Left unchecked, mold can cause or worsen respiratory issues and cause structural damage to your home.

What’s more, sudden storms or natural disasters can open the door to a wide variety of issues for which immediate care is needed. You can’t afford to wait, and you shouldn’t have to. Your friends at SERVPRO are here, so that we can be ready when you call. We won’t keep you waiting.

When you need help after a home or business disaster, fast service is a priority, and there’s nobody faster or more prepared than SERVPRO. Call us anytime to take advantage of our 24-hour emergency service.

 

Plan for Fall With Fire Safety in Mind | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

Be mindful about fall fire safety. Always remember that SERVPRO of North Kenosha County is the trusted leader in the restoration industry.

The Pack is back on the field, mornings and evenings are brisk once again, and suddenly everything is flavored with pumpkin spice. Yes, all the signs are here—fall has arrived in Kenosha.

Campout opportunities abound, fall decorations come out of storage and you’ve finally got good reasons to wear your favorite hoodie again.

But with each new season we should remind ourselves of basic fire safety needs, and fall is no different. Let’s go over a few of the most important things to remember this fall.

Campfire Safety

When you head out to the campsite, it’s equally important to know both how to build and how to put out your fire.

Any campfires should be at least 25 feet away from cars, tents or any structures, and not underneath any low tree branches. Use only safe ignition tools like matches or lighters with kindling—never use kerosene or lighter fluid. They may burn fast, but they can quickly get out of control.

Don’t leave your fire unattended at any point, and definitely don’t break camp until it’s completely extinguished—that means every last ember needs to be soaked through until any wood and all ash is cool to the touch.

Open Burning

Leaves are changing and falling, and when you end up with a yard full of dry, brown ones you may choose to burn them. You’ll need to check with your local fire department and get a permit first.

Only include organic yard waste like leaves and sticks in your burn—anything else is illegal and potentially toxic. Keep your burn pile at least 50 feet from your home, and never leave it unattended.

Space Heaters

Portable space heaters are always a risk because of their electrical draw and intense heat. Make sure your heater is a newer model with tip-over and overheat sensors, and keep it away from anywhere children might be active.

Operate your heater on a flat, level surface. Plug it directly into an outlet, as it can short an extension cord. Turn it off whenever you leave the room, and always unplug it when you go to bed.

Halloween

We’ll discuss this later in more detail, but decorating with candles, cobwebs or hanging lights can all be dangerous. Celebrate big, but celebrate safely.

If a fire hazard should turn from potential to reality in your home, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry and contact SERVPRO to get your property fully restored right down to the smell of smoke.

Copyright © 2021 SERVPRO OF North Kenosha County

Defensible Space: Star Wars or Wildfire Protection? | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged by fire or any other reason, SERVPRO of North Kenosha County is ready and able to repair any damage.

One of any home or property owner’s greatest fears is having things go up in flames, and wildfires are a more frequent perpetrator of property loss than you might imagine. Wildfires are seemingly inexhaustible, and with so much of our world being made of organic or combustible material, it’s quite a feat that we can even manage to contain them.

But there are some passive ways we can protect our homes and stop wildfires, aside from the simplest and most impactful, which would be simply being more careful.

Let’s look at a concept called “defensible space.”

What Is Defensible Space?

It’s not a new Star Wars movie—“defensible space” is a series of buffer zones you can create around your home by getting rid of wildfire fuel like brush and dead trees, adding gravel, concrete or flame retardant plants near your house, pruning your plants to prevent fire from spreading easily between them, and keeping trees and shrubs at a safe distance from one another.

Think of it as a protective barrier (aka defense), designed to shelter your home in the event of a wildfire by depleting a fire’s fuel sources as it comes near. Defensible space also gives firefighters their best chance of stopping a wildfire before it breaches your home’s perimeter.

Defensible space isn’t required by law in Wisconsin, but it’s a good fire safety principle to consider all the same.

Why Defensible Space Matters

You may think of wildfires as primarily a problem in western states, but they can happen anywhere. There were over 59,000 wildfires across the United States in 2020.

Even if we negate California’s 10,000+ fires, the average number of wildfires per state in 2020 was almost 1,000, and every state experienced at least a few.

Wisconsin suffered 781 wildfires last year, destroying almost 1,800 acres of land. And there has been a 25% increase in the number of fires so far in 2021.

We should take any opportunity to make it more difficult for wildfires to consume our property, and defensible space is a reasonable step to take that could yield home-saving results.

If your home is damaged by fire of any sort, wild or not, SERVPRO is ready and able to repair the damage caused. Get in touch today to get the pros on your team.

 

Fire Safety for Barbecue Season | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

6/25/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring fire and smoke damage is one of our specialties. Contact SERVPRO of North Kenosha County to learn more.

So much about spring and summer months are wonderful. The air is warm, the days are long, and nature is putting on an absolute show.

And maybe one of the best reasons to love these months is the fact that they give us an excuse to spend long hours at the grill in the backyard.

Yes, the season of barbecue is upon us once again, and once again men and women all over the country are trying out new rubs and sauces in search of the perfect brat, steak or chicken recipe. But all this extra activity at the grill and around the fire pit brings with it an unfortunate rise in accidental home fires.

In fact, spring sees more daily fires on average than any other time of year. So what can you do this barbecue season to avoid these kinds of incidents? Let’s look at a few things to take care of.

The grill. The grill presents the greatest risk for fire, because it combines a number of combustible elements. Make sure your grill is on stable ground and in good working condition, with no leaks of gas or grease. Never leave the grill going without your steady hand nearby (those patties are going to need a flip soon anyway). And don’t forget to give it a good cleaning! Almost 20% of grill fires are due to poor cleaning.

The fire pit. When you congregate around the backyard fire pit, make sure you’re operating with extreme caution—it is, after all, a literal open flame. Keep a full bucket of water close, with which you can douse any errant flames or accidental ash spills. Use this same bucket to extinguish the fire at evening’s end, but do it slowly, so as not to create any flying embers. Speaking of embers, don’t add leaves, paper or pine needles to the fire, as they present a great risk of uncontrollable embers that put your property in danger. And of course, never leave the fire pit unattended or allow children or pets near without supervision.

Chimneys and dryer vents. A couple more things while we’re talking fire safety—now that you’re done with your fireplace for the time being, have it cleaned so you’re not setting your first fall fire in a giant tube full of ash and soot. And check your dryer’s pipe vent, because sometimes lint can sneak past your lint trap and create an easily combustible hazard in the vent.

Your local SERVPRO technicians are on hand 24⁄7 for emergencies. If you encounter fire damage at your home or business, no matter the cause, we will be there faster and have it cleaned up sooner. Call or click today and experience the SERVPRO difference.

 

Can You Pass a Fire Safety Knowledge Test? | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

House fires tend to peak during the winter. SERVPRO of North Kenosha County are available 24/7 in the event of an emergency.

Can You Pass a Fire Safety Knowledge Test? | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County - SERVPRO OF NORTH KENOSHA COUNTY Blog

If you’re like most homeowners, you want to do everything you can to protect your investment, your family heirlooms, and, most importantly, the members of your family.

House fires caused by unpredictable natural disasters or certain appliance and heating system failures can’t always be prevented. But many of the most common house fire culprits can be prevented by taking extra safety measures and doing regular, basic maintenance on your home.

See How Much You Know About Fire Safety

How you answer these questions can let you know how well you’re managing your home’s fire safety risk. They can also help guide you toward lowering your fire risk.

Do you know what a natural gas leak smells like? Natural gas has a distinctive smell, like rotten eggs, and it’s the main sign you’ll likely notice if there’s a gas leak in your home. If you smell it, then it’s best to shut off the gas immediately.

Do you know how to stop a grease fire? Grease fires can happen in any home. A fire extinguisher is the best way to put out a grease fire. If you don’t have one handy, baking soda or a metal pan lid or a cookie sheet can help you put out the fire. Experts recommend buying and learning to use a fire extinguisher if there isn’t one in your home.

Do you clean the ashes and debris from your fireplace Dirty, clogged fireplaces with old ashes are a fire hazard. Instead, be sure you’re cleaning your fireplace and that you’re disposing of the ashes correctly.

If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have crews who are available 24⁄7 in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

Dealing With Fire Damage? Help Is Right Here in Kenosha l SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

12/19/2020 (Permalink)

If you have fire damage due to a heating malfunction or other issue, count on SERVPRO of North Kenosha County to fully restore your home.

Dealing With Fire Damage? Help Is Right Here in Kenosha l SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County - SERVPRO OF NORTH KENOSHA COUNTY Blog

Home fires are common during the winter, especially in cold places like Wisconsin, where it takes more effort to make our homes warm and comfortable.

Many of the winter’s seasonal hazards are linked to how we heat our homes. For example, space heaters that don’t have the automatic shutoff function can topple over and start a fire while they’re still running. Additionally, furnace malfunctions and issues involving home appliances happen, too.

With the holidays approaching, you should also be aware of the additional hazards linked to this season. Christmas tree issues are a leading cause of house fires.. Kitchen fires happen more often during the holidays because more people are at home cooking large holiday meals.

Why SERVPRO Is the Right Partner for You

Kenosha residents know they can call us when they need our help. Here’s why we’re their choice:

We can help with any restoration project. House fires can damage your walls, your furniture’s upholstery and more. Other issues homeowners deal with after a fire include smoke and water damage. We have the tools and resources to remediate these issues and more.

We prioritize restoration over replacement. Our team helps families recover from fire damage in a way that’s both logical and economical. We work to keep repairs affordable and insurance premiums down.

We are available any time. Getting started early on restoration efforts can make a difference. That’s why our team is here to help you, 24⁄7. Just reach out when you need our team’s support.

Our location is a local business.Because we’re a SERVPRO location, we can use the resources, equipment and training you would find at a large, thriving company with the advantage of choosing a partner here in the community.

If you have fire damage in your home due to a kitchen, heating or other fire, you can count on us for restoration assistance. Our team is always ready to meet your needs and help you restore your home. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services.

Tips for Recovering After a House Fire | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

12/12/2020 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO of North Kenosha County is here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration needs.

Falling victim to a house fire is never a simple process, and it is important to follow the right steps as you work to recover in order to make the process as smooth as possible. We have helped many local families pick up the pieces in the aftermath of a fire, and we are happy to provide how-tos and compassionate service to help people recover.

In order to make sure that you feel confident in your house fire recovery plan, here are some of our top tips:

Feel Confident in Your House Fire Recovery Plan

Prepare yourself for what to expect. Every house fire and fire fight causes damage in different ways, but it is important to have a general idea of what to expect before you see it firsthand. Damage from fires can be widespread—between smoke and soot traveling through the home and the somewhat destructive process of putting a fire out, it is important to understand that things may look way different than what you are expecting.

Wait to enter your home. Though most of us want to be proactive right after a frightening event, it is important to not rush back into the building after a fire until officials have deemed it safe. Because of the unique ways that fires cause damage, they can actually make buildings unstable. Always listen to official guidance regarding what is safe to do.

Contact your insurance company. The claims process varies depending on your insurance company, but getting in contact with them regarding the situation is generally the first step. From there, they can walk you through how to proceed and what documentation you need to provide to begin your claim process.

Document the damages. Oftentimes, damage documentation is required for insurance purposes, but even if it isn’t, it is a good thing to prioritize. A detailed inventory list and full photographs will help you make sure that you have not overlooked anything and have a record of any items or rooms that have sustained damage as you work to rebuild.

Contact your restoration company. Handling the emotional aftershocks of experiencing a house fire can be especially difficult as you work through the aftermath. That is why working with a reputable restoration company is highly recommended, as it will take much of the burden off of your shoulders.

If your home is damaged in a house fire, you can count on us to help you. Get in touch at any hour for a quick response.

Celebrate the Holidays With Fire Safety in Mind | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure your fire risk is low during the holidays. If you experience any damage, SERVPRO of North Kenosha County will be here to help.

Celebrate the Holidays With Fire Safety in Mind | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County - SERVPRO OF NORTH KENOSHA COUNTY Blog

There is no time when it is safe to not be concerned with house fires, but during the winter, it is wise to be extra cautious during your regular activities. Winter is the leading time for house fires to occur based on Red Cross data, and while many activities can present heightened risks, preceding with caution can help you stay safe.

An increase in cooking and baking surrounding winter holidays is partially to blame for this trend, but the use of heaters, fireplaces and decorations also plays a factor. While these activities are integral to a winter well spent, it is important to do them safely to avoid increasing your chances of experiencing a fire in the home.

Enjoy Winter Activities Without Increasing Your Fire Risk

Keep safe when cooking. Cooking and baking routinely cause the most amount of fires every year, but during the winter is when the frequency of these incidents peak. It is important to always practice fire safety in the kitchen, even when things are hectic. Watching out for flammable objects near the stove, always having a fire extinguisher on-hand and never cooking when tired or when things will be unattended are all key for safety.

Heat the house with proper precautions. In the chilly weather, using a fireplace or space heater is a cozy way to make your home more comfortable, as long as safety precautions are followed. Be sure you use a space heater with the latest safety features such as tip-over and overheating sensors, and never use the fireplace when the fire may be left unattended. As with any heating element, never keep flammable objects near a space heater or a fireplace, too.

Decorate with care. Decorations such as lights and other various electronics bring a festive feel to the home, but using them safely is a must. Christmas tree fires are caused by lights 25% of the time. Fortunately, you can enjoy decorations safely by not overloading outlets and power strips, never using frayed wires and ensuring that lights are not left on when you are sleeping or away from home.

If you have damage due to a house fire, you can depend on us to help. Contact us 24 hours a day to report damage and receive a quick response from our certified restoration technicians. Get in touch today.

How Fires Break Out in Cool Weather | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

Practicing prevention is the best way to reduce the chance of a fire, however if you do experience a loss contact SERVPRO of North Kenosha County.

How Fires Break Out in Cool Weather | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County - SERVPRO OF NORTH KENOSHA COUNTY Blog

As the weather turns cooler for the wintertime, the chance of fires begins to increase. Winter sees the highest occurrences of house fires due to several factors, which is why it is important to understand the reasons why fires occur more frequently and how to prevent them.

<h3behind-cool-weather-fires">Reasons Behind Cool Weather Fires

An Increase in Cooking
Cooking is always found to be the No. 1 cause of house fires during the year, so it is no surprise that it is also the top cause of winter fires. Many winter holidays are celebrated with big meals, leading to an increase in cooking, baking and having multiple people working in the kitchen at once, giving a fire more opportunity to occur.

The Risk of Heaters
Many families implore the use of space heaters or a fireplace to cut down their heating costs in the winter, but it is important to exercise caution if you do so. Heating errors cause fires at the second-highest rate during the winter, which is why it is important to ensure the safety features on any heaters are working and that a fireplace is never used without its protective grate.

Candles and Decorations
There are many ways to decorate for the winter holidays, but if you choose candles or electronics, be sure to exercise caution. Any time a candle is lit, there is an opportunity for the flame to spread, and this is multiplied if it is near fake greenery or other synthetically made decorations. Additionally, many electrical components of decor can deteriorate if they are used only once per year, leading to an increased opportunity for electrical fires.

<h3for-avoiding-cool-weather-fires">Tips for Avoiding Cool-Weather Fires

For the reasons listed above, it is important to be extremely cautious concerning house fires when the temperature drops. Here are some of the best fire prevention tips for the cooler months to keep you protected and to keep your home fire-free:

  • Check smoke alarms once every 30 days and replace every 10 years.
  • Always monitor open flames.
  • Select space heaters with automatic shut-offs in case they tip over.
  • Utilize a screen every time you use a fireplace.
  • Draft and practice an emergency escape plan with your household.

If your home has been impacted by a fire, call us right away. We are leaders in restoration and can help you recover quickly after a fire occurs.

Prevention Tips for House Fires | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

#firedamage #SERVPROnorthkenoshacounty #firerestoration #heretohelp #firesafetytips #fireprevention

Prevention Tips for House Fires | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County - SERVPRO OF NORTH KENOSHA COUNTY Blog

Not only are house fires extremely dangerous, but they also can cause expensive damages. The most effective house fire prevention tip is installing and regularly testing smoke alarms, but there are many other ways to stop house fires before they start.

The Numbers Surrounding House Fires

House fires occur far more often than one would estimate. In fact, at least two house fires are reported every minute, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

About half of the house fires reported are cooking-related incidents, but that is not the only cause to spark a flame.

Tips for the Prevention of House Fires

Fires are incredibly fast-spreading, and one simple mistake can lead to a devastating amount of flames in an instant. Learning the steps for preventing house fires is the best thing to do to keep flames from starting:

Maintain smoke alarms. Working smoke detectors are the best defense against fires because they are the most efficient way to alert the household that smoke is present. Monthly battery tests should be performed, and the entire unit should be updated every 10 years.

Clean the dryer. Dryer lint is the perfect combustible material when combined with the heat from the dryer. The lint tray should be cleared after each load to avoid a build-up of lint.

Watch open flames. Candles, cooking and fireplaces are just some of the reasons most people are exposed to open flames every day—making it easier to normalize them and forget their risk. Because of how quickly flames can spread, it is advised to never leave them unattended.

Maintain wiring. Household wires and cables can become a fire hazard if they are used when frayed or otherwise compromised. Check them often and replace once they become worn.

Shelter household chemicals. Household products often contain chemicals that are highly flammable, especially when stored in aerosol cans. Keep any of these products protected from sunlight or heat to avoid combustion.

If your home has suffered damage from a house fire, give us a call. We are certified in fire and soot remediation, and here to help 24⁄7.

We Can Help Restore Your Property Following Disaster

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

We Can Help Restore Your Property Following Disaster | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County - SERVPRO OF NORTH KENOSHA COUNTY Blog

We take pride in the fact that when disaster strikes, we can get there quickly, but there is another reason why SERVPRO should be one of your first calls if you are faced with a disaster.

Our highly trained technicians have a “restore first” mentality when it comes to your property, which benefits from the use of the latest equipment and cleaning techniques. This mentality also helps reduce the inconvenience to your life and makes it possible for your home to get back to pre-fire condition quickly.

Restore First for Fire Damage

Figuring out who you should call first after a fire has damaged your property can be a major stressor, but that’s why you need us. Contact us and know that our team will leap into action right away to service your cleanup and restoration needs.

Our team will develop a unique plan, tailored to your needs, because every fire damage event is different. However, the general process will remain the same.

Here are the steps that are included in our process:

1. Emergency contact. After contacting us, you’ll be able to detail the fire damage situation to us through a series of questions. By answering these questions, we’re able to make sure the team is sent out with the equipment and resources needed for the job.

2. Inspection and assessment. Once our team reaches your home or business, they’ll get to work on inspecting the damage. They will inspect and test adjoining rooms of the property to determine the extent of damage from the fire, which includes smoke and soot damage. This assessment helps us know what plan to take moving forward.

3. Immediate board-up and roof-tarp service. Part of the moving forward process includes making sure your property is secure and not at risk for further damage. This is accomplished by boarding up missing windows and walls and placing a tarp on damaged roofs that were damaged or destabilized during the fire.

4. Water removal and drying. This is an “as needed” step, but when a fire occurs and is extinguished, water damage is usually present. We start by removing water and then make use of dehumidifiers and air movers. This makes sure remaining water is handled and aids in the drying process.

5. Removal of smoke and soot from all surfaces. The smoke and soot from a fire can wreak havoc on your ceilings, walls and other surfaces. Due to this, we bring in our specialized equipment and techniques to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

6. Restoration. Our final step in the process involves making sure your property is back to its pre-fire condition. The restoration needed can include minor repairs like drywall replacement, paint jobs and new carpet installation, or it could require major reconstruction of the damaged areas.

Remember, if you need us, we’ll be there—no matter the time or day. The team of highly trained restoration experts at SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County is available for emergency cleanup and restoration services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

You Can Avoid Fire Hazards in the Kitchen

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

Even though the kitchen can be a wonderfully versatile place where family and friends gather to catch up or enjoy preparing and eating a meal together, it is also a place where many home fires occur.

Cooking fires are the No. 1 cause of home fires and injuries. The leading cause of these kitchen fires is unattended cooking.

State Farm paid out a whopping $130 million for homeowners insurance claims related to grease and other cooking fires in 2017. According to the insurance company, these are the worst states for kitchen fires:

  • North Carolina
  • Texas
  • Pennsylvania
  • California
  • Ohio
  • Illinois
  • Maryland
  • New York
  • Alabama
  • Georgia

<h4fire-hazards">Avoiding Fire Hazards

Staying in the kitchen while cooking is not the only fire safety precaution you should observe. Take a look at these other helpful tips to observe while cooking:

1. What type of clothing are you wearing? Does your outfit have long, flowing sleeves or is it big and baggy? It could catch on fire if you aren’t careful while cooking over the stove. It’s best to wear short or close-fitted sleeve shirts and make sure any baggy shirts are tucked in or tied back.

2. What type of items are you placing around or on the stovetop? Make sure you don’t have kitchen towels, oven mitts, appliance cords or even curtains too close to the stovetop when cooking. Ideally, anything flammable will be moved away from it.

3. Do you have a fire extinguisher in/near the kitchen? Hopefully you have at least one fire extinguisher located in your home, ideally one that is near your kitchen. Make sure you know how to properly use the extinguisher, just in case it is ever needed.

4. How are you disposing of hot grease? While the grease may not be on fire, it could be hot enough to cause something in the trash to burn. You should let the grease cool a bit and then dispose of it in an old coffee can. Also, know the smoke points of the oils you cook with. Be sure to never subject a low-smoke point oil to high heat when cooking, as it could catch fire.

5. Do you have a fire escape plan established? Thinking about the worst-case scenario is never fun, but it’s better to be prepared than unprepared if an emergency were to occur. Go over exit routes and designated meeting points with your family, making sure that everyone knows what to do.

Fire safety in the kitchen is an absolute necessity, as it can help prevent dangerous and destructive cooking fires. If your home has experienced damage from a cooking fire, know that SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County is here to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Safety Tips for Your Business | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Safety Tips for Your Business | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

When you are a business owner, there are plenty of safety factors that you must take into consideration regarding risks to your business, staff and visitors. One of those risks you need to spend some time on is planning for and working toward preventing a fire.

Top Causes of Commercial Structure Fires

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that the leading causes of structure fires in office properties from 2007–2011 were (in order):

  1. Cooking equipment, 29% of fires
  2. Electrical distribution and lighting equipment, 12% of fires
  3. Heating equipment, 11% of fires
  4. Intentional, 10% of fires
  5. Smoking materials, 9% of fires
  6. Exposure, 4% of fires
  7. Electronic, office or entertainment equipment, 3% of fires

Three of those causes—intentional, exposure, and electrical distribution and lighting equipment—were responsible for the most property damage with 20%, 18% and 15% respectively.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics found that in 2007, fires and explosions accounted for 3% of all workplace fatalities.

The NFPA estimates that in more recent numbers during the period from 2007–2011, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 3,340 fires in office properties per year. Those fires were solely responsible for an annual average of four deaths, 44 injuries and $112 million in direct property damage.

How to Protect Your Business

So what are some of the many steps you can take to protect your business from the risk of fires? By focusing on fire risk assessment, fire prevention and staff education, you will be working to reduce the chance of a fire breaking out.

First, you must assess the risk of fire hazards. In some areas, the local government may even offer a visit from a fire marshal to help identify these risks and provide guidance on your fire prevention plan.

You’ll want to make sure that the right fire protection equipment is in place. This includes an automatic sprinkler system, smoke detectors and fire extinguishers on each floor.

Finally, you must provide for the safety of your employees. By creating a fire plan and regularly reviewing it with your staff, you’ll be taking steps to ensure everyone knows what to do in the case of a fire. Conduct fire drills at least once a year to keep the fire safety protocol fresh, and take time to review evacuation plans and where the first-aid kits are.

Despite best efforts with fire prevention and safety tips, the worst could always happen at your business. If a fire has damaged your business, SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County is available to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Space Heater Safety

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

Millions of people use space heaters to keep warm in the winter. They are small, cost efficient and can keep your family warm. During the colder months, space heater fires increase. Improper use of a space heater can cause your home to go up in flames. With subzero temperatures approaching the end of this week here in Kenosha, we wanted to share some safety tips with you should you choose to use a space heater.

  • Read the manufacturer’s instructions and warning labels carefully
  • Only use a heater that has a recognized testing laboratory on the label
  • Inspect heaters for cracked or broken plugs or loose connections before each use. Do not use the heater if they are frayed, worn or damaged.
  • space heaters need space, keep everything clear of them by at least three feet
  • space heaters are only meant to provide supplemental heat and should never be used to warm bedding, cook food, dry clothing or thaw pipes
  • Place space heaters on level, flat surfaces. Never place them on cabinets, tables, furniture or carpet which can overheat and start a fire.
  • plug it directly into a wall outlet and you should never plug a space heater into an extension cord or power strip. Do not plug any other electrical devices into the same outlet as the heater. This can cause it to overheat and result in a fire.
  • Never leave a space heater unattended. Turn it off when you’re leaving a room or going to sleep, and don’t let pets or children play too close
  • When not in use, unplug and safely store the heater
  • make sure you have smoke alarms installed on every floor of your home and outside all sleeping areas

You can count on SERVPRO of North Kenosha County to provide you with the tips that you need to help protect you, your home and your belongings from fire damage. Should fire damage occur, we are here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year. 

Dryer and Washing Machine Fires

1/14/2019 (Permalink)

Remember to have your dryer vent pipe cleaned at least annually.

Between 2010 and 2014, U.S fire departments responded to an estimated 15,970 home fire involving clothes dryers or washing machines each year. These fires resulted in annual losses estimated at 13 deaths, 440 injuries and $238 million in property damage. Clothes dryers accounted for 92% of these fires, with the leading factor being failure to clean them.

Here are a few simple safety tips that can help prevent a clothes dryer fire from the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association).

  • Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional
  • Do not use a dryer without a lint filter
  • Make sure you clean the lint filter before after each load of laundry
  • Remove lint as collected around the drum
  • Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating
  • Clean lint from the vent pipe or have a dryer lint removal service do it one a year or more often if you notice it is taking longer than normal for your clothes to dry
  • Follow manufactures’ instructions and don’t overload your dryer

In the event you do experience a fire, call the professionals at SERVPRO of North Kenosha County right away and we will get to work to restore your home to its preloss condition.

October is Fire Prevention Month

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Fire prevention month raises awareness about fire safety and home safety to help ensure your home and family are prepared in the case of an emergency.

Fire Safety Tips:

  • Install smoke detectors throughout your home, on every floor and close to bedrooms, test/clean them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year
  • Install fire extinguishers in your home, keep them in the kitchen, garage and any workshop area and check them regularly to ensure they are working properly
  • Teach kids about the dangers of fire
  • Create a plan for escape and practice it with your family

Common Causes of Fires at Home

Clothing Dryers

  • Inspect the air exhaust pipe to the outside of the home yearly to ensure that there is no blockage and clear the lint filter after each load

Flammable Liquids

  • Liquids such as cleaning agents, paints, gasoline and adhesives are highly flammable and should be stored in a ventilated, cool area away from heat sources

Smoking

  • If you must smoke, step outside and make sure the embers are completely out

Portable space heaters

  • These account for 1/3 of heating fires. Keep any flammable items at least 3 feet away, keep the space heater on a flat and stable surface and never leave it on overnight or unattended

Electrical appliances

  • Faulty appliances can also result in a fire, check them regularly

Cooking

  • Most house fires occur as a result from using cooking oils, fryers, microwaves and unattended cooking. To avoid potential hazards, never leave the kitchen unattended while cooking and hot items should be kept away from loose clothing, dish towels and other fabrics that could potentially cause a fire

Fireplaces

  • Have your fireplace checked yearly to ensure it is working properly. Only use when you are home and make sure the fire is out before you go to bed. To prevent sparks, use a fireplace screen.

You might think that these fire safety tips are common sense, however it can be easy to overlook them. Taking the necessary measures will save a lot of hassle, your belongings and most important, your loved ones.

North Kenosha Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

Soot from even a small fire can cause pervasive odor damage in your home or business.

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 North Kenosha 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 at 262-764-7231.

Large house fire in Racine

8/8/2016 (Permalink)

Outside of Racine house

A 90 minute blaze unfortunately took out an entire second story of this beautiful house in Racine. The homeowners and their dogs were luckily not injured in this massive fire. The homeowners, local business owners, were absolutely devastated. We were called in the following day to start working on their house. We had to first board it up and tarp the roof to make sure no more damage could come to this beautiful estate. We then started cleaning up all the damage. We quickly realized that the house unfortunately was to badly damaged by the fire departments water to save any of the interior. We then began a full demo. Currently we have finished with the demo of the house and is down to the framing. Our friends at Elcano Construction are working with the homeowners to get this house back to its previous glory. When they are done it will look "like it never even happened."