Fire Damage Tips

9/29/2024 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO Irwindale/Baldwin Park, we make sure that all of our workers are well equipped with the knowledge on what to do if your property has fire damage. We also want to make sure that our community has this information, located as an online resource that you can go to whenever you need to refer back to this article. Fire preparedness in your home is an important thing to know about so that you can protect our homes from being damaged or completely destroyed. You may be asking, “what are the things I can do when it comes to being prepared?”  Here are some tips and tricks to help protect you from house fires. 

1. Ensure that there are Smoke alarms in every room
2. Test the smoke alarms monthly or on a regular basis
3. Make sure that you and your loved ones have a fire escape plan and that everyone is familiar with it 
4. Buy a  fire extinguisher 
5. If a fire does occur, get out and call for help 

We hope that these tips helped you make your home safer. SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park is the best choice you can make when it comes to fire & smoke damage and we serve property owner’s throughout the Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino Counties. Call us now! 626-852-9922. SERVPRO Joe is here for all your fire needs. 

Fire Storms and Hot Weather

9/29/2024 (Permalink)

A firestorm is an intense fire that develops its own wind system. The strong wind currents make it easy for the flames to spread and it also increases its potential to cause damage significantly. During the summer the chances of one occurring increase due to the natural hot weather. Areas close to the forest or places with dry vegetation are at a higher risk of being affected by a firestorm. It is key to always be prepared for a fire as they can begin so suddenly. Some important tips to better prepare yourself include

• Have an emergency plan in place
• Install smoke detectors, detecting a fire early on may prevent complications 
• Inspect your home for potential fire hazards; being aware of their location can prevent a fire
• Know the phone number of your nearest fire department; the sooner you call the faster they can arrive
• If a fire occurs indoors if possible you can close the door of the area. This may slow the spread of the fire
• Know the location of fire fighting equipment such as fire extinguishers
• Evacuate your home if there is a wildfire nearby that may reach your home
• Reduce or eliminate dry vegetation surrounding your home; dry vegetation is easily flammable
• Don't try to fight a large fire
• Be aware of your surroundings

No matter the location or size of a fire they are always dangerous. If you see there is a firestorm taking place then you should really remain on alert as they are very dangerous. In the event that you do receive fire damage then SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park specializes in fire damage mitigation. We have the equipment and expertise to assist you with your situation and we always want to help. We can easily be reached at (626) 852-9922. We are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Preventing Fire Damage

8/29/2024 (Permalink)

Your day can be completely normal one minute and then the next a fire can suddenly occur. It is easy to overlook the possibility of a fire taking place at your home, after all the odds may seem low. However, the chance of one coming about is still there. Being aware of potential fire dangers can help you prevent such a misfortune. Fires can originate from a variety of sources including

• Forgetting to turn off or unplug unnecessary electrical equipment
• Malfunctioning appliances
• Faulty electrical wiring
• Leaving candles unattended or too close to flammable objects
• Smoking close to flammable objects or not putting out the butt properly
• Overloaded electrical outlets
• Fireplaces; accidental or lack maintenance
• Defective light bulbs or other lighting fixtures around your home
• Leaving the kitchen area unattended while cooking
• Not storing flammable materials such as gasoline away properly

There are many areas and items in households that can easily be overlooked in being potential fire hazards. It is always a great idea to inspect your home and to be aware of potential fire concerns, doing so may prevent a disaster. If you do happen to experience a fire damage emergency then you can always contact SERVPRO. We are happy to help. We specialize in fire mitigation and we aim to restore your home back to normal. You can contact us at (626) 852-9922. We are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Industrial Fires

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Glendora/San Dimas has been doing business in the San Gabriel Valley and Los Angeles Basin for over 15 years.  

In the residential and commercial Restoration industry, disasters can be big or small, but they all have one thing in common, somebody has lost something that was probably important to them.  If it’s not something with a dollar value or an item of sentimental value, it could be the loss of a sense of security.  A realization and fear that no matter how much you might spend to avoid it and how well you prepare for a disaster there is no way to stop it.  Both man-made and especially natural disasters have a way of striking unexpectedly or with such indiscriminate force that our creations and confidence can be reduced to ruins in seconds.

The good people at SERVPRO understand this sense of loss seeing it on so many faces over the years.  Because of that, we strive to treat each of our customers with the same compassion, no matter if it’s mold under a bathroom sink or a mudslide that has filled an entire home to the ceiling with rocks and debris.  Given different people, we understand these feelings can be the very same regardless of the scope.  

If you need somebody with years of experience expertly handling the physical loss and the emotional challenges dealing with a fire, flood, sewer spill, or mold under a bathroom sink, call SERVPRO of Glendora/San Dimas to help you get back to normal and regain your confidence that life can be good again.

Smoke Odor in Your Home

8/30/2023 (Permalink)

There is no doubt that house fires are ruinous to one's home. They can originate at a random time throughout the year so it is difficult for many to be prepared for one. Even if the fire is put out in a timely manner and you were fortunate to prevent the total loss of your home, the effects of the fire can remain. One of the most common problems that take place after a fire occurs is the unpleasant smoke odor. Even if the fire took place in a small section of the home, the odor can spread throughout, leading to undesirable living conditions.

It is important to be proactive when dealing with the odor as it will remain lingering for a long period of time and in some instances will not go away on its own. Not only will it remain in the air, but it will begin sticking to the materials around your house such as your walls, couches, furniture, clothing, and so on. Allowing this to happen to your materials for a prolonged period  will eventually damage them permanently. Regardless of not being directly impacted by the fire they will need to be thrown away and replaced. In serious cases the smoke odor can also start working its way to your neighbors, affecting their homes as well. Thus, not only will you have to deal with the problem but now it is impacting your neighborhood. The air quality inside your home will also drop and can cause health effects. If not instantly then the effects will be felt long term. The more serious it gets then you will likely not be able to stay in your home until the situation is resolved.

When a fire occurs, sometimes just putting it out won’t be enough. In cases like this if you need assistance you can always contact SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park. We specialize in dealing with fire damage and deodorization. We will do what it takes to get rid of that smoke odor and restore your home back to normal. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year and we can be reached at (626) 852-9922.

How to Prevent a Dryer Fire

9/27/2022 (Permalink)

Every year, firefighters across the country respond to around 14,630 home fires caused by clothes dryers, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Unfortunately, most dryer related fires can be prevented. An estimated 34 percent of these fires occur due to failure to clean the machines. Most dryer fires happen in the fall and winter months, peaking in January.

If dryer fires are relatively common, but preventable, what you can you do to make sure a fire doesn’t occur at your home? Here’s how to prevent an incident:

Clean Your Lint Filter

The most common cause of a clothes dryer fire is lint build-up and reduced airflow. Lint is an extremely combustible material.

The built-up lint eventually sparks and catches fire. Usually lint will simply burn inside of a dryer and leave a burning smell along with damage to the dryer, but oftentimes the machine catches on fire. If the fire is severe enough or the flames spread, the fire can destroy an entire home.

The lint screen should be cleaned before and after each load, no matter how small the amount of lint is. This will also build the habit of constant cleaning.

Take Care When Washing Stained Items

Clothes stained with flammable chemicals or substances, such as gas, cooking oil, cleaning agents, or paint thinners, need special care. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends washing the clothing more than once to minimize the volatile chemicals, then hanging to dry. If you must use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting and a drying cycle that concludes with a cool-down period.

In the event that a fire does start, keep the dryer door closed, as a fire needs oxygen to keep it going.

Clean the Vent Line 

Cleaning should not only take place inside of vent hoses and inside of dryers, but also outside of the machines.

The vent line is the wall area that is behind the dryer and goes toward the outside flap of the dryer. This area should never be restricted or clogged up with lint. The chance of a dryer fire increases if this area is clogged.

If this area is too difficult for you to reach and clean yourself, reach out to a professional chimney sweep or cleaning service.

Maintain a Clear Drying Space

The entire surrounding area near a dryer should be clean and free of debris. No clothes, towels, cleaning supplies, or other materials should be gathered outside of a dryer.

This extra clutter, especially if cleaning supplies or flammable materials are present, will enhance the chance of a fire spreading across the home if one sparks. Fires spread rapidly, and anything that can contribute to that spread should be removed.

Additional Tips

How Do You Know a Dryer is Failing? 

If your clothes are taking a longer than normal time to dry, are hotter than usual, or any other out of the ordinary issue occurs, your lint dryer needs to be checked. In order to check the dryer, reach out to maintenance professionals.

Further Prevention 

• Never use a dryer if the lint filter is missing, loose, or damaged.
• Avoid overloading the dryer.
• Frequently check that nests of animals or insects are not blocking vents.
• If your dryer is gas powered, it should be inspected by a professional once a year. The professional should ensure that gas lines are connected and no leaks are present.

Nine Common Fire Starters

9/27/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park wishes safety and prosperity for our community members. Please take note of the nine most common fires starters below, and actively make strides to prevent these easy mistakes.

#1: Cooking

House fires happen most during dinner hours—between 5:00 and 8:00 p.m. That’s because people are cooking. Here's what you should remember when using the kitchen:  

• For grease fires, only use a fire extinguisher or baking soda. Do not use water! It will spread the oil/grease and make your fire worse.
• Never leave your food unattended. Fires only need 30 seconds to go from a small flame to an out-of-control blaze, so even going to the bathroom could endanger your home.

#2: Heating Equipment

Almost 13% of all residential fires are caused by heating equipment. Make sure to turn off all heating equipment once you have finished using them.

# 3: Electrical Equipment

Electrical equipment causes over 6% of house fires. Look for frayed wires, surge marks in wire, and damaged cords.

#4: Carelessness

Mistakes happen. For house fires, negligence causes 5.8% of blazes. Carelessness includes not putting our cigarettes, leaving candles burning, putting heating equipment near combustible items, and more.

#5: Open flame

Candles, fires in the fireplace, and outdoor bonfires are enjoyable when controlled, but disastrous when they’re not. About 4% of all house fires start from an open flame.

#6: Appliances

Appliances cause about 4% of house fires. You can decrease the chances of something malfunctioning and catch on fire by making sure it’s approved by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

#7: Intentional

Arson is a felony and can result in up to 20 years. But, people still do it. Out of all house fires, 4.2% are intentionally set.

#8: Smoking

About 2% of fires are caused by cigarettes. Just put your cigarettes out.

#9: Natural

Nature happens. This means wildfires and those caused by lightning are unavoidable. Don’t worry though! Natural causes only account for 1.6% of all house fires.

Remember, house fires claim a life every 7 seconds. To protect yourself, home, and business, be aware of where fires are most common. #fire #firedmaage #SERVPRO #community #stormdamagerepair #restoration #waterdamagerestoration

Heat Wave Tips!

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

Heat waves have been striking the San Gabriel Valley all Summer. Just like any other natural disaster, heat waves can be very dangerous!

Here are some tips to survive a heat wave:

Before the Heat Wave Hits

• Properly install window air conditioners, sealing any cracks and insulating if necessary.
• Check A/C ducts for proper insulation and clean filters.
• Install awnings, blinds, or light-colored drapes and keep them closed to keep sunlight and heat out.
• Upgrade your windows and weather-strip doors to keep heat out and cool air in.
• Make sure your first aid kit is updated and get trained in first aid relief.
• Have a plan for wherever you (and your family members/pets) spend time during a heat wave—home, work, and school—and prepare for power outages. Discuss heat safety precautions with members of your household.
• Check the contents of your emergency disaster kit in case a power outage occurs.
• Be aware of weather forecasts and the upcoming temperature changes.
• It’s not just the high temperature. The heat index is the temperature the body feels when the effects of heat and humidity are combined. See our heat index chart.
• A backhome home generator is the safest and most reliable solution!  Power outages are common during heatwaves because the need for A/C puts too much pressure on the power grids. A standby generator, however, automatically keeps the A/C running, the lights on, food and medicine from spoiling, and medical devices operating.

During the Heat Wave

• Use box fans and ceiling fans to promote air circulation throughout your home. Opening doors in the house and using box fans to push hot air outdoors can function as an "exhaust" system and draw cooler evening air into the house. In the cooler evenings, open all windows and promote as much air circulation as possible.
• Take advantage of the cooling power of water. Wet towels and bandannas can have a cooling effect when worn on the shoulders or head. Consider using a spray bottle filled with cold water for refreshing spritzes throughout the day.
• Head downstairs. Since hot air rises, the upper stories of a home will be warmer than the ground floor. A basement can be a cool refuge from the midday heat.
• Eliminate extra sources of heat. Incandescent light bulbs can generate unnecessary heat, as can computers or appliances left running. Eat fresh foods that do not require you to use the oven or stove to prepare.
• Remember to maintain an adequate level of hydration, which means you'll need to consume more water than you usually do when it's hot. Thirst is the first sign of dehydration; you should drink sufficient amounts of fluids before you feel thirsty in order to prevent dehydration
• For a homemade "air conditioning" system, sit in the path of a box fan that is aimed at an open cooler, or pan filled with ice.

Be Careful When Smoking

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

Smoking is one of the leading causes of fires taking place. Being aware of your surroundings and of the potential fire hazards is important as fire can start suddenly. Some things you can do to prevent smoking fires include:

• Avoid smoking indoors; too many materials such as your bed, carpet, wood cabinets and blinds around that can catch on fire
• Avoid smoking around flammable materials even if you are outdoors
• Don't smoke in landscape areas. Things like trees and grass can easily catch fire
• Try to stick to smoking areas; they were designed for people to smoke and to minimize the risks.
• Discard the materials in appropriate areas such as ashtrays. Don't just throw them on the ground or thrash
• Make sure the butts and ashes are completely extinguished. If no ashtrays are around you can use the concrete or dip them in water
• Always be aware of your surroundings

The small flame from the cigarette butt can easily become a large one if not careful. If so then a variety of complications will arise. Even if the fire is put away quickly it can leave your home with a bothersome smell that can linger around for days. If you do happen to need assistance in dealing with fire damage then SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park is always ready to help. We specialize in fire damage mitigation and we can be reached at (626) 852-9922. We are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Be on the Lookout for Fire/Smoke Damage!

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Whether it was a recent fire or one that happened in the past, the smoke smell from a fire and the damage it does will not go away over time. It must be treated properly to be eliminated. If your property was down wind from a wildfire or structure fire, you must prepare for what might be a problem in your home that could pose a health risk to you and your loved ones.

We just started working with a customer in the San Gabriel Valley that believes the Bobcat Fire (December 2020) was the cause of the smell affecting his home.  Smoke from fires penetrates soft materials inside of a home, including carpet, drapes, furniture and clothing and remains there long after the fire is put out.  Also, the acids that filter into properties from fires, even if there is not direct damage, can settle onto metal fixtures and appliances and cause corrosion of the finished surfaces over time.   Here are some steps that you should take after a property has been exposed to the smoke and debris from a fire:

1. Be aware those sensitive to air pollutants could be at risk 
2. Contact your insurance agent
3. Determine if your home has in fact been affected by a local fire
4. Organize your possessions in the event temporary relocation is recommended
5. Call a restoration company you can trust to restore your property

By calling SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park, we can help determine if a fire event is the source of contamination and move forward to professionally eliminate the problem.

We serve all locations in the Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties. Restoration experts are available 24/7 to speak with you by calling 626-852-9922.  Stay safe out there.  Sincerely,” SERVPRO Joe” McCann

It's Not My Fault! They Started It!

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

Customer's Fire Damage

It is still fire season. A lot of wildfires have been happening and are spreading into commercial and residential developments almost daily. However, that does not exclude the possibility of fires starting in your home or business, or damages from starting in structures adjacent to yours.. 

This past month, one of our customers called on us to help her with fire damage that affected her yard, 2 utility sheds, and a playroom in a detached garage. The fire started in the neighbors garage and spread, jumping across the property line. Luckily for her, after the Fire Department finished extinguishing the blaze, SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park was able to help her begin the recovery of personal effects. 

Whether it’s you, a neighbor, or mother nature’s fault, we’ve got you covered. We are here for all your water, fire, mold, and restoration needs. We offer 24/7 services and you can reach us at 626-852-9922.  Someone in our office will always be able to assist you. We not only service the Irwindale & Baldwin Park area, but the Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Orange County areas as well. 

How to Avoid Dryer Fires in Your Home

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that your dryer can cause a fire? It’s rare to hear this as a reason for a fire but it’s one that can be avoided. Here are some ways to avoid dryer fires.

1. The lint that is being gathered from all of your clothes is extremely flammable. It’s crucial that you clean the lint trap after EVERY SINGLE USE.
2. Check to make sure there are no loose wires and everything is plugged in properly.
3. Do not run the dryer when you are away from home or sleeping so that you can catch it faster if something were to happen. 
4. Do not overload the dryer.

These are some easy tips to ensure the safety of you and your loved ones. We know that sometimes appliances are faulty or other factors may arise and cause a fire, however, SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park is certified to restore your property from fire damage. Joe McCann has been in the business for 16+ years so he has all of the knowledge on how to fix property damage effectively and efficiently. Call us at 626-852-9922 if you need help restoring your residential or business property. We serve customers throughout the Los Angeles, Orange, & San Bernardino Counties.  

Warm Weather is Upon Us!

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Damage to apartment building.

The sun is shining consistently these days in Southern California. Beautiful Spring weather is here! Days full of swimming, barbecuing and outdoor fire pits are finally here! 

Outdoor Fire Safety 

It is important to remember to stay safe while enjoying yourself with family and friends. 

• Always keep barbeques, smokers and outdoor fire pits away from low hanging vegetation - such as trees, or vines 
• Remove any dry weeds, flowers, bushes, or shrubs away from your home, garage or patio area - embers from outdoor fire pits or barbeques can stray 
• Keep pets and children away from hot objects to prevent burn injuries 

Call SERVPRO Joe Now.

In case of fire while participating in outdoor activities, call 9-1-1. For fire restoration services, call SERVPRO of Irwindale and Baldwin Park. Owner Joe McCann and his team are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Joe is a plethora of fire restoration knowledge.

Firework Season

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

The entire apartment was destroyed by a fire.

Fireworks have been a symbol of American celebration since the Revolutionary War. Loud, bright, beautiful - it’s no surprise why people love them so much. 

However, California being the “dry” state that it is, in most cities, fireworks are illegal. Keeping fireworks restricted from residential use helps prevent wildfires and home fires. 

Firework Safety 

If fireworks are allowed in your county or city, remember to practice the utmost of safety.

• Never allow children to ignite fireworks 
• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby- dispose used fireworks in a bucket of water 
• Light fireworks one at a time 
• Always have adult supervision 
• Back up to a safe distance after igniting fireworks 

Take Action

In case of a fire emergency, call 9-1-1. In the event of a fire in or outside of your home has taken place, call SERVPRO of Irwindale and Baldwin Park. Joe McCann and his team have over 16 years of fire restoration experience.

Several Sources of Fire Damage

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

New Fire Started 10/02 in Azusa Mountains

When a fire has caused damage to a structure, there may be several sources of damage that could affect what restoration process is the best.  For instance, the fire itself will burn, char, and heat up building materials that can ultimately create the need to remove and replace these damaged areas.  Then there is consideration given to the materials or fuel the fire was burning that could determine how and what processes are used in the cleaning process. For instance, if the fire is fueled primarily by plastic or petroleum-based materials the soot and byproducts from the fire are different than if the source of fuel is predominantly wood or cellulose. Also, much of the fire damage comes from the particulates suspended in the smoke which can fill the property and saturate into the porous furnishings and surfaces inside the building.  Furniture, carpeting, drapes, and clothing are examples. These soft products are saturated with the smoke and debris from the fire resulting in surface contamination and the smell of burnt building materials. A decision will need to be made which of these items will be cleaned and deodorized. 

Because the byproducts of burning wood and manmade products are both commonly part of a structure fire, the smoke can contain a mix of high levels of acidic and oxidizing compounds.  These will settle on the surfaces of fixtures and furnishings and if not cleaned properly will begin to corrode their finishes.  Metal plated and paint surfaces should be cleaned as soon as practical to help reduce the chances of permanent damage.  In many fire-damaged structures, electronics will be contaminated and the long-term effects of these corrosive byproducts can affect their performance.  Replacement and or restoration may be recommended. 

So, the considerations and cleanup options vary with the scope and type of fires. SERVPRO of Irwindale / Baldwin Park has the equipment, cleaning processes, materials, the training, and experience to determine the best approach to help property owners completely recover from a structure fire, or being caught downwind from a wildfire in the foothills.  If the property is in the San Gabriel Valley or anywhere in Southern California, Give SERVPRO of Irwindale / Baldwin Park a call today for an assessment if you need a professional service with answers to your restoration questions

Bobcat Fire

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

Bobcat Fire

On August 26 at 4:38pm in the foothills North of Los Angeles, close to the communities of Monrovia and Azusa you can see the start of the Bobcat fire. 

The cause is still under investigation, but as of September 20th, the fire continues to burn, blackening over 100,000 acres, displacing people, and destroying homes and infrastructure.  The low humidity, high temperature, and winds have complicated fighting this storm as the containment has seesawed between 0% -15% over the past month.  Burning embers have created extremely dangerous situations as flare-ups and spot Fires have continued increasing the size of the fire beyond the main fire lines.  

For the public, it is critical that when the notifications are sent out warning homeowners of imminent fire danger, those in the path need to respond immediately to get out. The loss of life is a very real threat and includes not only property owners, but the firefighters trying to protect properties and life. Please have a plan to leave your property in a hurry if you are in those areas prone to high fire danger. Remember, the priority of the firefighters will always be protecting people.  If they are responding to calls rescuing people in the path of the fire, no longer are they fighting the fire, and, we are certainly increasing the danger to them.  

Please be a help to these heroes, during any wildfire situation, be ready to evacuate, stay alert, and support the critical business of firefighting by following instructions.  

Stay safe and stay connected.  Sincerely, SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park.

Prepared For the Unexpected

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

While no one can really be fully prepared when an emergency happens or disaster strikes, there are proactive steps you can take to help you, your family, and your business be as prepared as possible in the case of an emergency. 

First steps 

Communication as a first step can make a huge difference in the stress that can come when a disaster hits. Sitting down with friends, family, your household or co-workers and talking through the details of a plan is a good start to making sure everyone is on the same page. Some ideas to consider discussing could be  

• What are our current ways of receiving warnings and alerts? How will we continue to receive these warnings after a disaster or emergency? 
• What is our plan for shelter in case anything should happen to our home? 
• Is everyone clear on an evacuation route? 
• What is our plan as a family/household or business for communication? 

Assess Your Specific Needs 

This can be daunting but in case of an emergency, it is always best to be prepared than caught even more so off guard. If there are family members, household members, or co-workers that have certain dietary or medical needs make sure you have that necessary food or medicine on hand. If your household has pets, make sure you know the plan for them as well in the case of an emergency. Make sure you either have what they need or have a plan to get them into temporary care.  

Most Importantly 

In case of an emergency or disaster, make sure that above all, you, your family, your household, or your business are somewhere safe. Whether it’s a fire, flood, or earthquake, make sure to contact emergency services as soon as possible and do not try to handle the situation on your own.  

In the event damage does occur to your home or building, call SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park, we are faster to any disaster!

What You Can Do To Prevent A Dryer Fire

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

Home fires can be caused by a multitude of things, but perhaps one of the more common causes is from dryer fires. According to the U.S Fire Administration, “2,900 home clothes dryer fires are reported each year and cause an estimated 5 deaths, 100 injuries, and $35 million in property loss.” One of the leading causes of dryer fires is from the failure to clean out dryer and lint traps. Often dryer fires can happen more often in fall and winter months. 

Here are some do’s and don'ts in regards to dryer maintenance… 

Do

• Make sure to clean your lint filter often 
• Check to see that all electrical plugs are properly plugged in 
• Ensure dryers are properly installed  
• Keep the area around dryer clean and free of anything that can burn

Don’t 

• Don’t overload the dryer
• Make sure there is no loose lint in the dryer and ensure the dryer always runs with a lint filter installed 
• When you leave your house, make sure not to leave the dryer running 

SERVPRO is certified to complete restoration for fire damage in residential and commercial properties. We are faster to any disaster and here to help 24/7. If you need our assistance, give us a call at (626)852-9922.

How To Beat The Heat in Los Angeles

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

A great place to stay cool in the Los Angeles heat is at the beach.

Southern California has been sizzling in record-breaking heat from the desert to the sea this Summer. With high temperatures shattering all-time records across the region, it has been tough to beat the heat.

Here are some fun and practical things to do while staying safe and cool as LA’s temperatures top 110 degrees:

Visit an Indoor Museum

We love the outdoors so much in L.A., that even many of our museums have partially outside campuses. The Marciano and MOCA are both solely indoors, and the Natural History Museum has enough air-conditioned galleries to occupy hours of your time. LACMA and the Hammer Museum both have outdoor courtyards between some galleries, but we’ll make an exception since they’re both such short walks in the sun.

Go to the Library

Though we often take advantage of the online benefits of a library card, this weekend might be a great time to read a good ol’ hardcover book. Many libraries double as official cooling centers—which more or less means you’re welcome to laze there during operating hours.

Treat Yourself to Ice Cream

Will it melt the second you step into the sun? Probably. But will it make you feel better? Absolutely. Ice cream and classic frozen desserts are certainly in order for this sizzling summer heat. 

Catch a Summer Movie

Put outdoor movie season on pause for a day or two and instead hole up at your favorite movie theater. Make a whole day of it if you’re really craving that sweet, sweet air-conditioning and catch a couple of this summer’s biggest movies in the same day.

Go to the Skating Rink

The skating rink — be it roller or ice — has always been a perfect place to spend a few hours cooling off and getting some exercise in the summertime. 

Visit Your Local IKEA 

The Scandinavian furniture and home goods store — with locations in Burbank, Carson, Covina and Costa Mesa, locally — is a monument to commerce so massive, we're relatively sure you could spend a day or several "testing" various ready-to-assemble sofas and beds and soaking up AC and no one would be the wiser. 

Fire Damage Restoration 101

10/4/2019 (Permalink)

This house in Baldwin Park was badly affected by a fire and you can see all the smoke and soot that has been left from the fire.

A fire can obviously have considerable damage to a structure, but soot and smoke can also create just as many problems. 

HOW CAN YOU HELP PREVENT FIRES

There are many ways to protect your business or home and minimize the risk of fire damage.

• Do not leave food that is being cooked unsupervised.

• Never leave a burning candle out of sight

• Make sure your home or business has smoke alarms and test them regularly.

• Keep a fire extinguisher on hand and learn how to use it.

• Install a sprinkler system in your business.

CAN FIRE DAMAGE BE REPAIRED?

To start minimizing losses, burned materials need to be removed and the affected area need to be decontaminated and dehumidified. Most of the odors from smoke do not disappear when "aired out". Soot needs to be sealed in place or removed in order to get rid of the odor. Heavy plastic sheeting can be used to seal off the burned areas and create odor barriers.

Fire Damage Restoration Protection Tips

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

Glendora CA, home affected by fire, smoke and soot damage

The Los Angeles area that we serve has been having numerous wildfires.

During a wildfire, tons of toxic chemicals, poisonous gases, heavy metals and other toxins are created by the materials, household products and vegetation that burns. These contaminants fill the air, become part of the ash, and are extremely dangerous to your health if inhaled or come in contact with your skin.

As a restoration company, we forget about the dangers involved with the different environments we enter, but safety should always be a top priority.

If entering an area affected by fire or smoke, consider the following safety tips:

1.) Minimize your exposure to contaminated areas to avoid breathing air contaminated by smoke odor.

2.) Wear proper protective equipment designed to filter vapor or gasses like a proper fitting respirator with a P-100 HEPA filter.

3.) Avoid getting ash into the air as much as possible. Do not use a leaf blower or take actions that will push ash into the air.

4.) Do not use vacuums and other common vacuums cleaners because they do not filter out contaminants, but they blow them out the exhaust into the air where they can be inhaled.

Call your local SERVPRO of Irwindale / Baldwin park to remove all fire, smoke and soot damage from your property to make it, "Like it never even happened."

Fire, Smoke, Soot, and Odors - Never Pleasant Effects for An Irwindale Home

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage can truly ruin your home if not taken care of properly. Call the professionals at SERVPRO today for remediation assistance.

Why Quick Fire Damage Restoration for Your Irwindale Home is Vital 

Fires in homes are devastating. The flames and smoke from a fire cause physical destruction to a home and its contents. After a fire, homeowners should respond quickly to prevent further damage. Responding fast can counter the extent of the fire and smoke damage, and the associated corrosive substances.

If you experience fire damage in your Irwindale home, hire professionals immediately to restore it to its pre-damaged state. Regardless of the fire damage your home experiences, quick action can ensure a less costly and successful restoration. As you wait for the experts to arrive, you can perform tasks such as:

•       Opening doors and windows to increase ventilation

•       Placing fans in the property to get clean air circulation

•       Washing fabrics, carpets, and upholstery

Fire damage is classified into two categories:

1.           Primary damage which revolves around the fire.
2.           Secondary damage which results from the smoke and bad odors left lingering in the property.

Fire damage is also classified into six categories, beginning from Class A to Class F. After a fire, the following usually occurs.

Smoke’s hidden reach

Smoke damage can occur in unexpected areas of your house. For instance, if smoke engulfs your living room, the spaces behind the drapes in your guestroom can contain a significant amount of smoke residue. Smoke can also travel quickly through the ductwork of your property.  

Bad odors

Besides the soot, bad odors still linger in the property, and they can penetrate the ceilings, walls, and furniture. The unpleasant smells resulting from smoke and fire damage should be dealt with promptly. Our SERVPRO technicians can remove the odors using thermal foggers and hydroxyl generators to help you get back to a habitable environment once again. 

High levels of Acidity

Soot has high acidity levels, and it destroys natural elements. Metals that come into contact with soot can etch and eventually discolor. Magnetically charged smoke particles can cause short-circuiting in electronic equipment. Quick restoration after fire damage is vital considering the adverse effects of smoke, fire, and their acidic by-products. Our Fire Damage Restoration Technicians (FSRT) can act speedily to lessen the ruin in your property.

We clean the structure and contents separately. We can eliminate all traces of smoke and soot from different surfaces, such as walls and ceilings. Sometimes, we move contents out of a structure and clean them in our facilities. When cleaning contents on-site, our SERVPRO technicians move them to a clean area of the house.

Our technicians use different products to clean a structure and its contents, including general surface cleaners, liquid crème cleaners, glass cleaners, and heavy-duty cleaners. We also have advanced equipment like thermal imaging cameras, moisture meters, and moisture sensors that can detect hidden water damage resulting from fire-fighting efforts.

When you experience fire damage in your home, call SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park for remediation services. Our team of professionals can handle the loss to make it look, “Like it never even happened.” Call us anytime at (626) 337-3374 for swift restoration.

Click here to see more about Irwindale.

Call Our Professionals If Your Home In Baldwin Park Experiences A Fire Damage Disaster

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

For faster turnaround after fire damage in your home, call SERVPRO of Irwindale / Baldwin Park to restore it to preloss state.

Hastening Restoration Of Fire Damage In Baldwin Park

After a fire razes your property, you probably want to restore everything to the preloss state as soon as possible. In several cases, this is easier said than done because fires leave widespread damages that require several steps to restore. Working with a professional restoration service can help fast track the process because of the experience and resources such services have.

One way to fast-track restoration of fire damage in Baldwin Park is preventing aspects of the loss from ruining the property further. After the initial harm by flames, smoke and other aspects of fire, secondary damages occur from the residues deposited or access points created by the fire. Our SERVPRO crew members pre-clean surfaces to remove residues such as soot which have acidic properties preventing corrosion and staining. We also install roof tarps and board up properties to seal any openings left by the fire, which can allow rain or vandals into the property leading to secondary damages.

A fire incident is likely to leave dozens of items blackened, either through charring by flames or smoke deposits. Sorting and cleaning the items can take considerable time especially if not done systemically. Our SERVPRO technicians opt to separate items into different categories of salvageable, unsalvageable and questionable. We clean items with limited damages immediately and move out those that require additional steps to an external facility for advanced cleaning. We also dispose of unsalvageable items leaving your property clean.

Fires damage different building materials including drywall, insulation, cabinets, and ceilings. The level of damage differs in each fire incident, so there is no clear-cut way to respond. Our SERVPRO technicians evaluate damages to determine whether restorative cleaning, refinishing or replacement is appropriate. In several cases, there may be more than one viable solution, so we rely on our extensive experience in Fire and Smoke Restoration services to determine the faster approach. For example, although smoke residues do not ruin insulation apart from changing the appearance, replacement is more practical. To do it faster, we replace the top 3 to 4 inches of insulation.

For faster turnaround after fire damage in your Irwindale and Vincent area home, call SERVPRO of Irwindale / Baldwin Park to restore it to preloss state. You can reach our crew at (626) 337-3374 any time. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Click here for more about Baldwin Park.

Why You Need a Professional to Restore Your Vincent Home After a Wildfire

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

Wildfires leave a path of destruction. SERVPRO has the experience to assist you with the entire restoration process.

Wildfires and Recovering Their Damage for Your Vincent Home

When you consider the proximity of your Vincent home to areas like the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, wildfires affecting your home do not seem to be improbable. Just this past summer firefighting efforts were ongoing to quell a blaze that consumed nearly twenty acres of this land, threatening homes throughout the region.

While fire damage to your Vincent home could continue to be a risk throughout certain points of the year, the effects that it can do to your home are worth preparing to face. Fires can spread quickly throughout flammable building materials like wood and drywall, causing the effects to move from room to room until the flames get extinguished by the first responders.

Our SERVPRO technicians have encountered many homes that have become significantly structurally compromised due to fires which got out of control. It is our responsibility to the community to be available to you whenever you need us, and that is why our emergency response team is available 24/7 to mitigate your loss and formulate the right plan to restore your home entirely.

Assessments play a critical role in the work that we do, as these help to determine the full extent of the damage that your home faces as well as the equipment and personnel required to restore it. Our estimator can arrive promptly to help evaluate the cost of the restoration and catalog the damage to expedite the claims process with your insurance provider. That is why many homeowners choose to call us first, as we can compile the necessary documentation to make a claim process as efficient as possible.

Wildfires are as unpredictable as they are catastrophic to homes that are in their paths. While these might seem overwhelming at first, the right professional restoration assistance can make all of the difference. Once you can return to your home safely, you can count on our SERVPRO of Irwindale / Baldwin Park emergency response team to get the process started to restore your home as quickly as possible. Give us a call anytime disaster strikes at (626) 337-3374.

The Getty Museum uses goats to clear brush.  Click here for more information.

WOW!! Fire, Smoke, Water, Smells in Your Irwindale Home--Call SERVPRO

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

No! Not Spacemen! SERVPRO Technicians During a Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration in Irwindale

Cleanup and Restoration When Fire Affects an Irwindale Residence

Some situations affect your Irwindale home and are beyond your expertise to repair or restore on your own. Widespread situations like a fire can leave you overwhelmed by the effects and worried that your house might never return to the way that it once was. Our highly trained technicians can help you through this difficult time and work to bring your home back to pre-fire condition.

One of the most troublesome points about fire damages to your Irwindale residence is that there are often far more negative effects than you can see through a visual inspection of the damage after the flames have gotten extinguished. Worse still, your home might not be safe to enter until it has gotten cleared by certified and competent parties like our SERVPRO estimator, (who got the okay from the Fire Marshall.)

In instances where a widespread fire has affected your residence, our priority is to limit the effects of this disaster from getting worse while restoration preparation is underway. One of the ways that our SERVPRO team can help to reduce the impact of this situation on your home is to work to dry up and clean up water damage that gets left behind from the extinguishment efforts.

Another approach that you can expect from our team of professionals responding to your emergency is to seal up any breaches in your home’s exterior from external threats like the weather, vermin, or other hazards. This approach typically gets achieved through boarding up or tarping over the damaged or purposefully removed portions of your house to provide a line of defense against what continues to threaten it. There are limitations to what we do in this regard. Once restoration work nears completion, appropriate measures can get taken to secure reconstruction contractors to complete the job.

Overcoming the effects of a fire is nothing that you can expect to do overnight and nothing you can expect to do on your own, either. Our SERVPRO of Irwindale / Baldwin Park fire restoration technicians are available 24/7 to help you overcome the broad effects of this disaster throughout your property. Give us a call any time that you need us at (626) 337-3374.

Here is Irwindale new resident information

Recovering from the Carr Fire

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

In 2018, fires have charred about 7,200 square miles across the USA, which is about 1,400 square miles above average, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

Although it could be weeks or months away, the deadly Carr Fire and other horrific wildfires in California and across the western USA will eventually be doused.

But how long will it be before things return to "normal"?

For some folks, it could be years, or perhaps never: "In the communities where these large fires hit, there can be a decades-long impact," said Merritt Turetsky, an ecosystem ecologist at the University of Guelph in Canada. 

Fires can leave entire neighborhoods ruined. Turetsky related a story from years ago of people who moved back to a neighborhood into the only home a wildfire spared – then realized they were alone in a blackened and charred landscape, one that might never be rebuilt.

Nationally, only 25 percent of burned homes were rebuilt within five years, according to a study in 2015 in the "International Journal of Wildland Fire."

Big fires can decimate the environment. When man-made materials from houses, cars or other buildings burn, they can release toxins into the soil, rivers or streams, Turetsky said. They're also released into the air we breathe.

Overall, "the after effects of a wildfire on watershed can be drastic," according to Cal Fire. "Rates of erosion and runoff can increase to dangerous levels following wildfires in California. Normally trees, shrubs, grass and other protective ground cover help prevent soil detachment and allow rainfall to infiltrate into the soil."

Thus, landslides and mudslides can bring further misery to fire-scarred areas when winter rains come. This winter, an El Niño is likely, the Climate Prediction Center said, which generally means additional rainfall for California.

If you or someone you know are experiencing smoke damage from fires, SERVPRO of Irwindale/Baldwin Park  is here to help. Our services cover fire and smoke restoration. 

To everyone impacted by the wildfires in California, we are truly sorry for your loss and offer our services to you.

To read more please visit: 

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2018/07/30/carr-fire-what-happens-when-blazes-doused/865806002/