Recent Fire Damage Posts

The Most Common Causes of House Fires and What You Can Do About Them | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton

8/2/2024 (Permalink)

dramatic shot of firemen holding hose spraying water on to burning hot flames SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is ready to help you have a fire-safe summer season with these helpful tips!

As a homeowner, one of your top priorities is keeping your family and property safe. House fires can be devastating, but by understanding the common causes and taking preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the risk. At SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton, we care about your safety and want to help you protect your home.

The Leading Culprits

The Kitchen. Cooking is the leading cause of house fires. Unattended cooking, especially when using grease or oil, can quickly turn a small flame into a major blaze. To prevent kitchen fires, never leave cooking food unattended, keep flammable items away from the stovetop, and always have a fire extinguisher nearby.

Heating Equipment. During the colder months, heating equipment like space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves are common culprits of house fires. Ensure your heating devices are well-maintained, keep them away from flammable materials, and never leave them running unattended. Regularly clean and inspect chimneys and vents to prevent blockages that can cause fires.

Electrical Fires. Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and damaged electrical cords are common causes of electrical fires. It’s crucial to have a licensed electrician inspect your home’s wiring periodically. Avoid overloading outlets, replace damaged cords, and unplug appliances when not in use. Using surge protectors can also help prevent electrical fires.

Candle Mishaps. Candles create a cozy atmosphere but can be hazardous if left unattended or placed near flammable items. Always blow out candles before leaving a room, and use sturdy candle holders that won’t tip over. Consider using flameless LED candles as a safer alternative.

Grills and Fire Pits. Cooking outside is a favorite pastime for many of us, but unattended grills and fire pits are common causes of accidental fires. Keep any open flames at least 10 feet away from your home or any other structure, and make sure you have sand or water nearby to quickly put out anything that flares out of control.

Make Safety a Family Priority

Along with getting to know the most common causes of fires in the home, it is important to make safety a priority for your whole family. Creating a family emergency plan and practicing exit routes can go a long way in ensuring that everyone can quickly respond if an accident happens.

Make sure your home has enough smoke detectors spread throughout, including basement areas and near any sleeping area. Test them monthly when everyone is at home. The loud noise can be scary for children, but it is crucial that they are able to identify and respond appropriately to the detectors.

Protecting your home from fire hazards is essential. By taking these preventative steps, you can reduce the risk of a devastating fire.

Sometimes accidents happen in even the most prepared home. SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is here for you 24⁄7.

Outdoor Grilling Safety: Enjoying the Great Outdoors | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton

6/3/2024 (Permalink)

campfire style bonfire with dark night background Gather around the bonfire but don't forget about fire safety! Follow these tips from SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton to ensure a fun and safe night.

Ah, the joys of outdoor grilling, bonfires, and camping fires! There’s something about cooking under the open sky or gathering around a crackling fire that brings people together. But amidst the fun and camaraderie, it’s crucial to prioritize safety, ensuring that these enjoyable activities don’t turn into accidents waiting to happen.

The Importance of Outdoor Fire Safety

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), outdoor fires, including grilling and bonfires, contribute to thousands of accidents and injuries each year. From grease fires on the grill to uncontrolled flames around a bonfire pit, the risks are real. That’s why SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is here to offer some essential tips for keeping your outdoor gatherings safe and enjoyable.

Tips for Safe Outdoor Grilling

  1. Keep a Safe Distance: Position your grill at least 10 feet away from your home or any flammable structures. This helps prevent accidental fires from spreading.

  2. Clean Your Grill: Regularly clean your grill to remove grease buildup, reducing the risk of flare-ups. Use a wire brush and hot, soapy water to clean the grates and burners.

  3. Check for Gas Leaks: Before firing up the grill, inspect the gas lines for any leaks. Apply a solution of soapy water to the connections and look for bubbles, indicating a leak.

  4. Stay Vigilant: Never leave the grill unattended while it’s in use. Keep a close eye on the flames and have a fire extinguisher or bucket of sand nearby in case of emergencies.

Bonfire and Camping Fire Safety

  1. Choose a Safe Location: Build your bonfire or campfire in a designated fire pit or on a non-combustible surface, away from overhanging branches or dry vegetation.

  2. Control the Flames: Keep the fire at a manageable size and never use gasoline or other accelerants to light it. Instead, use kindling and dry wood to start the fire safely.

Conclusion: Stay Safe with SERVPRO®

By following these simple safety tips, you can enjoy the outdoor grilling season and campfire nights with peace of mind. Remember, safety always comes first! If accidents do occur, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is Here to Help® with fire damage restoration and cleanup services.

Visit SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton

Winter Fire Safety Basics | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

brick chimney with lit fire logs Fire safety is a top priority for us at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton this winter. Keep your home safe with these helpful tips!

Cozy season has fully set in around Georgia, which means comfy clothes, fluffy blankets and crackling fires in the fireplace. While enjoying the warmth of a fire or a toasty room warmed by the space heater is one of the joys of winter, it also leaves your home vulnerable to house fires.

House fires are always more common in the winter, and many of them start because of an accident that could have been prevented. With a few simple steps, you can keep your home safe and enjoy every minute of those fuzzy socks.

Addressing Your Fireplace

Winter storms in our area may be few, but when they do roll in, power outages can be common. That makes having a fireplace a great way to stay warm no matter what happens. Fireplaces come with their own risks, though, especially when they are used improperly.

Wood-burning fireplaces should be cleaned of ash and debris after each fire, and your chimney should be cleaned and inspected by a professional once a year regardless of the heat source.

You shouldn’t burn anything in your fireplace other than the appropriate fuel source. Make sure you keep flammable materials away as well, which also means skipping items that hang from a mantle. Make sure you have smoke detectors either in the room with the fireplace or right outside of it. If you have a gas fireplace, you should also have a carbon monoxide detector. Dust around your fireplace often, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

Space Heater Safety

With weather that can go from winter to summer and back again all in the course of the day, space heaters are a great way to warm up a room instead of the whole house. Space heaters are responsible for nearly 1,700 house fires every year, making them a risky convenience.

Only run space heaters on solid, level ground with a three-feet open area all around them. Check the cord before you plug it in to make sure it is free of breaks or fraying, and always plug your space heater directly into the wall.

Don’t place your space heater near your couch, curtains or any other flammable material. Teach the kids, both human and animal, to stay away from space heaters when they are plugged in. Running your space heater overnight isn’t a good idea either—stick some extra blankets on your bed instead.

Suggested Safety Features for Your Space Heater

While most space heaters on the market today are going to come with safety features, there are a few in particular you want to ensure anything you run in your home has. If your current space heaters are more than five years old, it’s time for an upgrade to keep things safe.

Do some research on the manufacturer of the heater to ensure they are both reliable and certified. Heaters should undergo some pretty solid testing before they make it into the hands of the consumer. Only purchase space heaters that have automatic shutoff features. They should shut off when they are bumped or tipped and after a set amount of run time.

The cord on your space heater should be at least six feet long and made from sturdy materials. Space heaters should never be plugged into an extension cord, so make sure what you are buying has a long enough cord for your needs.

Never leave a space heater or operating fireplace unattended. This way you can keep things safe and cozy all season. If an accident does happen in your home, call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton right away. We will get soot, smoke or any other damage handled quickly.

A quick fire damage restoration is just a phone call away. Call SERVPRO® for immediate assistance.

A Holly, Jolly Fire-Free Holiday Season | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

pan on kitchen counter in residence ablaze while unattended Fire damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton on the case!

It’s one of the best times of year, the holiday season! No matter how or when you celebrate, there is likely to be some really incredible food involved. Really incredible food can’t happen without someone putting in the work to cook it though—and more time in the kitchen means a higher risk of house fires.

The number of house fires that occur increases dramatically when the holidays roll around, and a vast majority of them begin in the kitchen. That doesn’t mean you have to cut out Grandma’s pumpkin pie this year; instead, it just means taking some extra steps to keep your home safe.

Reducing Flammable Materials in the Kitchen

It’s pretty natural to put in a little prep work when you head into the kitchen to get ready to cook. Make sure some of your preparation includes making things fire-safe as well. Kitchen fires don’t just stem from cooking, but can also be caused by clutter.

Keep towels, oven mitts or pot holders away from any sources of heat. Watch out for wooden utensils, too, storing them off of the stove when they are not in use. It only takes the grease popping once or a single spark to catch these items on fire fast.

Consider what you are wearing when you start working on the holiday meal as well. Anything with flowing fabric, hanging strings or dangling items can be a fire hazard. Skip the fun apron, and roll up your sleeves to stay safe.

Keep a Close Eye on Food

Any time you cook, make it a point to stay in the kitchen the whole time. Even after everything is done, stick close by until your appliances begin to cool down. Kitchen fires can get very big, very fast. You need to be able to move as quickly as possible should one start in order to prevent a total disaster.

If you are planning on deep-frying a turkey for any of your gatherings, make sure you take some extra steps towards safety. Never overfill the oil, and follow all safety precautions as listed by the fryers manufacturer.

Put the fryer on a level surface away from anything flammable, and make sure the kids know to stay away. Thaw your turkey completely. Even a turkey that is only partially frozen can cause popping and sizzling grease that could burn you or start a fire.

Install Protective Measures

Fires may not be completely preventable, but taking as many precautionary steps as possible can reduce your risks and protect your home. Your house should already have smoke detectors on every level, but make sure there is one right outside of the kitchen as well. Check the batteries before you start cooking to make sure you are good to go.

Keep a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen, and make sure several members of your family know how to use it. For potential grease fires, keep the lid to any pots and pans you are using so that you can smother them out fast.

This season, make safety a priority. If you do have a fire in your home, call us right away. We can tackle any damage around the clock, so you can get back to your celebrations.

House fires can happen in the blink of an eye. Contact us for a quick restoration day or night!

Things You Should Do and Things You Shouldn’t Do When You Have a Fire Outside | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton

9/18/2023 (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 Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.

Have you felt any cool breezes in the air yet? Before we know it, fall will be here in full force and the hot and humid summer will start to feel like the distant past. For many, fall is a favorite season because of the change in the weather, but you have to admit the colorful leaves and pumpkin-flavored everything are fun as well.

As the nights get colder, many of us head outside to enjoy sweet family time around a fire. As you roast your marshmallows and eat more chocolate than you should, make sure you stay fire aware in order to keep your family safe.

A small fire can become a big problem quickly, but SERVPRO® is right around the corner to help. Not only can we start your recovery after a fire fast, but we also want to help you prevent a disaster in the first place.

Tips for Starting the Fire

As you make your plans to get a fire going, keep these things to do in mind:

Do pick a place that is in the open, away from any structures. Make sure you don’t pile your extra wood and brush near the flame either.

Do keep water nearby. If you are too far away from a faucet, fill up a bucket with water and have it within arms reach in case something happens. A shovel and some dirt can also be handy in putting out any rogue embers or flames.

Do check the weather. Even a fire pit that has a screen can become dangerous on windy days, especially if things have been dry for a while. Check on burning regulations as well to make sure there are no current bans.

Tips for While the Fire Is Hot

Once you get your fire going, pay close attention, and keep in mind a few things not to do:

Don’t use any fuels except for approved, treated woods. Lighter fluid or gasoline should never be added to open flames and are not approved for use in fire pits. Don’t toss trash in either, since it could have a higher burning point than what your fire pit or bonfire ring can handle.

Don’t allow the kids to get near the fire. If they are roasting marshmallows, use a long stick or extendable forks. Running or walking near the flames should never be allowed to avoid accidents.

Don’t try and impress the neighborhood with a huge fire. The larger your flames, the less control you have. One too tall flame or large ember can make for a total backyard disaster.

Don’t leave the fire unattended. Stay outside until there are no longer red, glowing embers. Embers can spark back into flames even hours later. Put water on the fire when you are done, and relax nearby until it is completely out.

Wildfire Prevention

Most wildfires are started out of human error. If you are going to have an open flame outside, make sure you do what you can to keep it contained and avoid potential disasters. Make it small, stay nearby and use the right materials.

If your home ever experiences a fire, call SERVPRO. With 24⁄7 availability, we are always ready to help.

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

Backyard Grill Safety | SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton

8/10/2023 (Permalink)

Man holding tongs above grill preparing food outdoors Have you had a barbeque gone wrong? Call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton to get your space back in shape.

Is there anything better than summer? Even if you are not a fan of the heat and humidity that comes with Georgia weather, being able to spend time outdoors and the bright sunshine simply cannot be beat. Summer is also grilling season, which means you can take the chore of cooking for the family outside.

Using a grill incorrectly can become a complete disaster quickly, and is actually one of the leading causes of house fires in the summer. SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton wants to help you enjoy every moment of summer, free of worry and full of safety.

The Setup

If you haven’t already done so, choose a location for your grill that will ensure an extra layer of safety for your home. Grills should be placed in an open location, free from anything above or directly beside them. That means that even on the rainy days we often see in Dublin, rolling the grill into the garage to cook is a no-go.

Choose a location that is away from any structures in your yard as well. Try to create a zone of at least 10 feet in which there is nothing combustible. Teach the kiddos, including the ones with four feet, that this is a kid-free zone.

Take a few steps to prepare your grill before you ever turn it on or light it up. Charcoal grills should be free of ashes from BBQ’s past, and inspected for build-ups of any kind. Check the grill body for holes, dents or other signs of wear and tear. Propane and any other kind of gas grills should be inspected before each use as well. Look for holes in the gas line and make sure everything is tightly connected.

Manning the Flames

After inspecting the grill, take a quick inventory of your supplies. Make sure you have some water nearby to put out flames when they get too high, and put a fire extinguisher or garden hose somewhere you can quickly access it.

Once you are done cooking, it can be tempting to show off your hard work and start chowing down, but you should stick by the grill until everything is completely turned off and it has begun to cool off. Hand off the food and switch off burners and the gas. For a charcoal grill, close vents so that oxygen can no longer access the burning coals and they can begin to cool.

As soon as you can safely do so, remove ashes and leftover charcoal altogether. These should be disposed of in a metal can or another fire-safe receptacle. It doesn’t take a lot of heat to reignite leftover ashes, so the sooner you can get them away from the grill, the safer you will be. Make sure your grill is cooled enough to touch before heading to bed for the night.

Make this summer the best one, and make it the safest one, too. Summer weather is some of the best weather in Vidalia, and you deserve to enjoy every minute of it worry=free. SERVPRO is here for you if things do get out of hand, 24⁄7.

Don’t let fire damage linger in your home. Call us at SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for a fast restoration.

Fire Safety for Kids That Isn’t Scary | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton

6/10/2023 (Permalink)

young boy staring at a lit match being held between his fingers SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is here for you and your family if you experience a fire in your home or business.

Watching children grow is such a joyful experience. Helping them grow in curiosity and creativity while you get to view the world through their bright eyes is such a blessing, but there are plenty of things you will have to teach them that could be less than pleasant.

Fire safety is one of the most important things you can teach children, and something they need to learn starting at a very young age. If a fire breaks out in your home it will be scary for everyone regardless of age. The more you prepare the faster and safer everyone can respond.

Introduce your children to staying safe during a fire in fun and comfortable ways so they know how to react during an emergency.

Explain the Dangers of Fire

In order to understand something, kids need to be able to experience it and get to know cause and effect. Teach your children how a fire can start. Walk them to areas of your home where fires are prone to starting, including the stove, fireplace or fire pit if you have them. Make sure they understand that these are not toys and should be used safely or not at all.

Store matches and lighters in a secure place in your home where young children cannot access them, and make sure older children understand that they are not toys before allowing them to use them. Found matches should always be brought to an adult. A house fire can start from a single smoldering match.

Familiarize Them With Authority

Teaching your kids about proper authority figures is another crucial lesson they need in lots of areas of their lives, but make sure they are familiar with firefighters who could respond in the event of a fire emergency. Show them pictures of firefighters in their gear, or take them to the local station to introduce them and allow them to see the truck and gear up-close.

Work with your kids on what firefighters will do when they come to your home during an emergency. Have them army crawl down a hall while they yell out their names. Play a stop, drop and roll game to see who can make it the fastest from one location to the next. Keep it light and fun so that your children can better absorb the techniques without fear.

Make a Game Plan Together

If your family does not already have one, create an emergency exit plan. Get creative with art supplies and have the kids create diagrams of the safest ways out of each room. Hang their artwork on the fridge as another way to reinforce this crucial concept.

Practice these escape routes, and talk about window safety if that is one of the exits out of a room. Make sure your children understand this is a last resort and go over the potential fall risks so they avoid trying to climb out for fun later.

Create an outdoor meeting place that your family can safely gather at in the event of an emergency. Make this a space far enough away from structures but still somewhere comfortable and frequently used. Let the kids play here from time to time in order to make this spot feel safe.

Teach your kids how to call 911 and help them memorize basic information about themselves, their parents and their location. Practice everything often, and you can rest assured your family is safe.

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

Steps to Prevent Home Fires | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

interior view of a room with items completely destroyed by fire If your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration needs.

Working smoke detectors were present in the homes of 74% of house fires between the years 2015 and 2019, speaking for the vast use of fire alarm home systems across the United States.

While smoke detectors remain the most effective tactic to avoid fire-related deaths and property damage, there are various other precautions you can take, the bulk of which are as simple as cleaning your home:

Clear Your Home of Clutter

Our homes are vulnerable to clutter. When it comes to fire prevention, clothing, spare blankets and other textiles left unattended in corridors and storage rooms are very risky.

If you keep clothing near gas tanks or water heaters, you can easily start a fire. To avoid dangers in case you ever need to leave your house quickly due to a fire, it’s a good idea to leave open, clean pathways. That way, if a fire does happen, it will progress less quickly due to having less-flammable materials in its path.

Lastly, ensure there is space in between wall outlets and rugs, lamps or furniture to avoid creating a fire hazard.

Protect the Outside of Your House

There are several techniques to make your home’s exterior more fire-resistant. You can create a path for firemen to enter your home more efficiently in the case of a fire by using strategic landscaping tactics and take steps to limit the risk of fire spreading to your house.

It is suggested that you retain at least 30 feet of defensible space outside your home at all times, and that you replace flammable materials with more adequate materials such as cement, brick and gravel. Also, remove any waste material that may block the path, such as leaves or dry grass.

Watch for Hazards

Home fires resulting from cooking are very common in Georgia, so remember to always double-check your appliances, stove top and oven before leaving the kitchen unattended.

Burning candles left alone are another of the most commonly reported sources of home fires. Before leaving a room or leaving your house, it is essential to always double-check burning candles and fragrance sticks.

These easy actions can make a dramatic contribution to decreasing your fire risk and maintain that you are adequately equipped in the event of a home fire.

We spend a lot of our time inside our homes, spending time maintaining our properties and building memories within its walls. To avoid a fire, it is also critical that we make sure to keep our homes clean and take the time to remove hazards, and keep our families safe.

If you have experienced fire damage or want to learn more about our fire damage restoration services, contact us today. We’re here to act fast, 24⁄7.

Tips to Stay Safe during Fire Damage: SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO green Disaster Recovery truck trailer parked outside of a property restoration project with four workers around it. No matter how serious your property damage may be, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is your local expert for restoring your home or business.

It's that time of year again - fire season in Dublin, GA, and surrounding areas. Between February and May, the weather gets hotter and drier, while the risk of house fires rises. A fire may start from a variety of sources, ranging from a faulty wire to an overloaded outlet to a kitchen mishap to a bonfire left unattended. It's critical to know how to react quickly and effectively if your home catches fire.

Here's What You Need To Know If A Fire Starts: 

The first line of defense against a house fire is to know how to use the proper fire extinguisher for the situation. This simple procedure can help save lives and hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage. If the fire spreads uncontrollably, evacuate immediately and stay away, then call 9-1-1. Leave all of your belongings where they are and save yourself and your loved ones.

If your clothing ignites, remember the old adage: Stop, Drop, and Roll.

It's critical to utilize the stairs if you live in a building with elevators in case of a fire. The elevator electrical system may be damaged by a fire, causing the shaft to operate like a chimney and rapidly fill up with deadly fumes.

Doors may be used to your advantage in a fire, potentially saving your life. If the doorknob or handle is hot, don't open it. If you can't exit through the primary route, look for another option. Do not open any doors that are warm to the touch.

Close any doors that might obstruct your exits, lay a wet towel beneath the doors, and call the fire department or 9-1-1 if flames, heat, or fire block your avenues of escape. Tell them exactly where you are so they can find you.

If you're near a window that you can't use as an escape, open it and wave a brightly colored cloth or use your phone flashlight to signal for help.

What To Do After a Fire

After a fire, it is important to contact a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton. We have the training, experience, and equipment to properly restore your home - "Like it never even happened."

If you try to clean up the fire damage yourself, you could end up making the situation worse both in your home and with your insurance company's process.

Trust the experts, and call today!

We’re Ready Around the Clock | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton

2/19/2022 (Permalink)

a small interior room showing extensive damage from a recent fire If a fire issue pops up during the holidays, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton.

If you remember rotary phones in homes and “blue light specials” at the local big-box store, then it’s likely you’re old enough to remember a time when we did much more of something we hardly ever have to do now: waiting.

Remember sitting in a doctor’s office with nothing to do but twiddle your thumbs or check out a three-year-old magazine? Now you can video chat your physician from home while you play video games in the background.

So much of our lives is instant now, and that’s a good thing—especially when it comes to the urgency of home damage. If something happens in the night or on a weekend to create an acute need for service, you shouldn’t have to wait. And with SERVPRO’s world-class, 24-hour emergency services, you won’t have to.

Fast service and quick action matter, and here’s why.

After a fire. Fire does much damage in the immediate, that’s plain to see. But soot, the sneaky discharge created when combustion goes uncompleted, works behind the scenes to create even more damage, and it starts only minutes after the fire.

Soot and smoke combine to create stains and smells for which there is a very limited window for repair. Once that window passes, the only recourse is to completely reconstruct affected walls to get rid of them. It’s doable, of course, but having SERVPRO on the scene right away will save you time, money and smelly clothes.

After water damage. It’s hard to miss the puddled water and dripping after a burst pipe, but it’s easy to overlook the fact that 48 hours after water comes in contact with your surfaces, mold starts growing. Mold can cause health effects and damage your home's structure. The faster your home can be dried and dehumidified, the better off you’ll be.

If storms or natural disasters happen in the night or on the weekend, you’ve got a sudden, acute need, and you shouldn’t have to wait until 9 a.m. the next business day to get help. When time is of the essence, we’re ready to act.

You shouldn’t have to wait for help, and when you link up with us, you won’t. Trust the team that’s Faster to Any Size Disaster. Trust SERVPRO.

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.

Every Fire Has 4 Basic Building Blocks | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton

2/19/2022 (Permalink)

a small paper house burning If your home or business has any damage, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is ready around the clock to help you recover.

A simple visual aid can be the difference between someone understanding a concept or remaining confused. Fire, for example, is an incredibly complex subject, but a humble geometric shape can be used to help us make sense of its fundamental elements.

Fire agencies refer to it the fire tetrahedron, and it consists of four triangular sides, each of which represent an element that is essential to the life of any fire.

Without any one of these present, a fire can’t live, which also tells us a few things about how we can use these foundational elements against a fire.

The 4 Things a Fire Needs to Live

Fuel. You want to grow big and strong, don’t you? Then do what Mom said and eat your proteins and veggies. And if any fire wants to grow, it needs to eat, too—but it can eat a lot more things than you can.

Heat. Any flammable material has an ignition point, and this point is reached as the material is heated. If you’ve ever had hot oil catch fire in a cooking pan, you know how quickly this can happen once the proper temperature is reached.

Oxygen. Oxidation is key to the combustion process of a fire, which means the fire has to consume and exhaust the oxygen from the surrounding atmosphere.

Chemical Chain Reaction. All these things not only have to combine at the same time, but they have to keep combining in a chain reaction in order for a fire to live.

The 4 Ways to Stop a Fire

Cool it. Get your water bucket ready, because one of the most effective ways to stop a fire is to counteract the heat by cooling the fuel, and getting it back to a state of thermal balance.

Smother it. When you stop, drop and roll to stop a clothing fire, or when you use a fire blanket to stop a sudden, wild flare-up on the grill, you’re taking action to deprive the fire of the oxygen it needs, thus ending the catalytic reaction.

Starve it. A fire that can’t eat can’t live. Removing the fuel source can achieve this end, or it will happen naturally once the fire consumes everything it can.

Interrupt the chain reaction. This is a little more scientific than we’ll get into in-depth, but certain gases are able to counteract the actual chemical reaction that keeps a fire going. These are used in certain fire extinguishers, especially in scenarios in which it’s important for water not to be used, such as when electrical equipment is nearby.

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.

Backyard Fire Safety | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

flames and smoke from a bonfire Restoring fire and smoke damage is one of our specialties. Contact SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton to learn more.

Many of us spend most of the fall and winter looking ahead to the spring and summer months. We yearn for the warmer weather, and the longer days.

There’s just something about it that feels fresh and inviting. Nature beckons us outdoors, and we spend more time enjoying nature.

We might even decide to get serious about those New Year’s goals we set back in January. Or maybe they’ll wait another month…

These months also typically include a bevy of backyard activities—cookouts, family reunions, gender reveals and graduation celebrations all call us to break out the grill and party. But this season also brings with it an increase in fire activity across the country.

In fact, spring sees more daily fires on average than any other time of year. But with a little attention, you can ensure all your backyard plans go off without a hitch this year.

The grill. Let’s face it; grills are potential hazards, no matter how much we may love using them. Always make sure your grill works and is free of damage or leaks. Use it responsibly and never add liquid accelerants. And clean that thing after you’re done—almost 20% of grill fires are due to poor cleaning.

The fire pit. If you love to gather around a pit with friends, just be sure you’re doing it responsibly. Never use leaves or pine needles to add to the fire, as they may create flying embers. Never allow an unattended fire, or unattended children or pets near it. And keep a bucket of water at arm’s length to take care of any errant flames, and to slowly douse the fire until it’s cool when you’re done.

Chimneys and dryer vents. While you’re thinking about fire safety anyway, go ahead and get your chimney cleaned so you’re not burning into a dangerous soot buildup in the fall. And check your dryer’s vent pipe for highly flammable lint trapped inside.

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.

Navigating the Aftermath of a House Fire | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Experiencing an event as devastating as a house fire is something that takes time to recover from, both emotionally and physically. Even small, quickly extinguished fires can cause damage throughout a home that must be dealt with to keep your family safe.

While recovering quickly is important, recovering safely is the most important thing—that is why we have put together some helpful guidelines for house fire recovery with safety in mind.

Helpful Guidelines for House Fire Recovery

Prepare yourself for what to expect. While some fires may cause charring, odor and not much else in the way of damage, others may require firefighters to take extreme actions to battle the flames. It can be difficult to determine from the outside how extensive the fire damage is, so be sure you are mentally prepared to see the damages firsthand.

Wait to enter your home. Fires can cause quite a bit of hidden structural damage throughout the home, which is why you should never enter a fire-damaged building until it is deemed safe. The risk of injury and further harm is too high, so always consult with your local officials and wait for their approval before you head inside.

Contact your insurance company. Every insurance policy provides different coverages and processes as part of your agreement, so it is important to check with them early on to get details on how to file your claim. They will be able to give you personalized advice on how to proceed and maximize your claim in accordance with your specific policy.

Document the damages. Though dealing with the details regarding damaged belongings is unpleasant, documenting everything thoroughly will be helpful to you and to your insurance company as you file a claim. Make an inventory list of everything that has been impacted by the fire and be sure to take plenty of photos as well.

Contact your restoration company. Being able to count on your restoration company in a stressful time can make the entire process more pleasant. The stress of experiencing a house fire is serious, but having a team you can trust to help you pick up the pieces is a fantastic way to feel better about the whole scenario.

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.

Every Second Counts When It Comes To Restoring Your Property

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Every Second Counts When It Comes To Restoring Your Property

 

Fire damage, no matter the size, can affect every square inch of your property. It can travel through air ducts, burn through ceilings and floors, and damage countless pieces of equipment and documents.

SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has access to thousands of pieces of equipment and hundreds of personnel to help mitigate even the largest fire damage. Our experienced technicians utilize industry knowledge, training, experience, high-tech equipment, and proprietary cleaning products to perform emergency services to meet our customer’s cleaning and restoration needs.

Performed immediately following a loss in order to reduce property and content damage, our emergency services reduce claims’ expense, and minimize customer disruption.

While the types of emergency services we provide vary, our emergency response includes:

  • Boarding up the structure and securing the property to help prevent intrusions.
  • Drying the structure. Water is often used to extinguish a fire, so excess water or moisture must be monitored and removed.
  • Deodorization of the affected areas.
  • Pre-testing and initial cleaning. Initial cleaning may help prevent additional damage caused by soot residue, and pre-testing allows the technician to determine what can be restored to help eliminate needless and costly expenses.
  • Conducting building inspections to evaluate the loss site for any safety or health hazards.

Call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for all your Fire Restoration needs!

Every Second Counts When It Comes To Restoring Your Property

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage, no matter the size, can affect every square inch of your property. It can travel through air ducts, burn through ceilings and floors, and damage countless pieces of equipment and documents.

SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has access to thousands of pieces of equipment and hundreds of personnel to help mitigate even the largest fire damage. Our experienced technicians utilize industry knowledge, training, experience, high-tech equipment, and proprietary cleaning products to perform emergency services to meet our customer’s cleaning and restoration needs.

Performed immediately following a loss in order to reduce property and content damage, our emergency services reduce claims’ expense, and minimize customer disruption.

While the types of emergency services we provide vary, our emergency response includes:

  • Boarding up the structure and securing the property to help prevent intrusions.
  • Drying the structure. Water is often used to extinguish a fire, so excess water or moisture must be monitored and removed.
  • Deodorization of the affected areas.
  • Pre-testing and initial cleaning. Initial cleaning may help prevent additional damage caused by soot residue, and pre-testing allows the technician to determine what can be restored to help eliminate needless and costly expenses.
  • Conducting building inspections to evaluate the loss site for any safety or health hazards.

Call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for all your Fire Restoration needs!

Every Second Counts When It Comes To Restoring Your Property

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage, no matter the size, can affect every square inch of your property. It can travel through air ducts, burn through ceilings and floors, and damage countless pieces of equipment and documents.

SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has access to thousands of pieces of equipment and hundreds of personnel to help mitigate even the largest fire damage. Our experienced technicians utilize industry knowledge, training, experience, high-tech equipment, and proprietary cleaning products to perform emergency services to meet our customer’s cleaning and restoration needs.

Performed immediately following a loss in order to reduce property and content damage, our emergency services reduce claims’ expense, and minimize customer disruption.

While the types of emergency services we provide vary, our emergency response includes:

  • Boarding up the structure and securing the property to help prevent intrusions.
  • Drying the structure. Water is often used to extinguish a fire, so excess water or moisture must be monitored and removed.
  • Deodorization of the affected areas.
  • Pre-testing and initial cleaning. Initial cleaning may help prevent additional damage caused by soot residue, and pre-testing allows the technician to determine what can be restored to help eliminate needless and costly expenses.
  • Conducting building inspections to evaluate the loss site for any safety or health hazards.

Call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for all your Fire Restoration needs!

Types of House Fires

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

The most common type of house fires starts in the kitchen. The most common kitchen fire is a grease fire. It can be started very easily and spread if not properly put out. *Do not put water on a grease fire, you want to cover it. Another common house fire is due to electrical wiring. It can be from faulty wiring or old wiring. During the cold winter months, a fire can be due to a heater. Portable heaters need to be used when someone is watching it closely or where it will turn off if overheating. Lastly, a major cause of a home fire is smoke-related. People falling asleep with a cigarette in their hand can cause a major house fire. If you are disposing a cigarette in the home, make sure it is properly extinguished before placing in a trash can or emptying the ashtray.

Practicing Safe Habits When You Fire Up the Grill | SERVPRO® of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Summer is in full swing, which means most of us are probably grilling our dinners as much as possible to take advantage of the warmer weather. While grilling is one of the best summer pastimes, it is important to remember that there is a certain level of risk every time you light it. 

By practicing safe grilling habits, you can be certain that you are not inadvertently creating a high fire risk in your backyard. 

Practicing Fire Safety When Grilling 

Set Your Grill Up in the Right Area If you have not considered the location of your grill in a while, it is important to make sure it is in a safe spot. Set your grill up on level ground, away from any buildings, overhangs or flammable objects. It is recommended by the U.S. Fire Administration that you create a three-foot “safe zone” around your grill any time it is in use. While the main concern here is fire, gas grills in an area that is not well-ventilated can lead to a buildup of carbon monoxide in the area. The heat from a grill can also melt vinyl siding and ignite deck materials if conditions are right. 

Never Leave the Grill Unattended (Even if You Are Done Cooking) 

While you should certainly never walk away from a lit grill, even for a moment, you also likely assume you are safe to walk away as soon as the flames are out. However, until a grill is completely cooled off, it can be a fire hazard, especially for charcoal grills. Hot embers can hide within the coals and spontaneously ignite if there is still heat circulating. 

Clean and Inspect Your Grill Often Cleaning your grill is key for tastier food and more efficient cooking, but it also is much safer to grill on a clean surface, too. Food residue that builds up on the grates over time can combust eventually, creating a fire scenario that can quickly get out of hand. It is also a good idea to frequently check your gas line if you are using a gas grill—the connection to the propane tank can wear out over time and cause leaks that could be hazardous. 

Fires can be started by a variety of things, but regardless of the origin, we are here to help. Contact us at any hour for a rapid response for fire restoration. 

Fire Safety

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

Outdoors fires are absolutely beautiful especially in the fall. The air is crisp and being outdoors is a fall favorite. When creating a fire outdoors, you definitely need to consider the environment surrounding the fire. Whether you are near your home or in a national forest, you want to ensure the fire will not burn the area. Here are some tips to keep your home and our nature areas safe.

  • When selecting a fire pit location make sure you are at least fifteen feet away from tent walls, shrubs, trees, or anything that might catch fire.
  • Make sure the pit area is level and clear of debris.
  • Make sure the wind spot you have chosen is calm.
  • Dig your pit about one foot into the ground and circle the mouth with stones.
  • Always remember to check with your campsite or the U.S. Forestry Commission to see if you are allowed to have a fire at the time you plan on camping.
  • Make sure that any fire you build is kept low and out of the wind. This will help keep the embers down.

Never for any reason leave a fire unattended or hot. Make sure you pour water on the fire until it stops hissing.

What to do after a fire...

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

First, you want to ensure someone such as the Fire Marshall has cleared you to enter your home for safety reasons. At this point, you can go through your home to see the damage and possibly gather items you can keep. Second, you want to document everything- damaged items and items that can be restored. Take as many pictures of your home as is for insurance purposes. You may want to take a note pad and write notes while going through your home. If the fire was in one room, you still may have the smoke odor in other rooms. It is important to carefully note this for insurance and restoration companies. Lastly, call a restoration company such as SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton to come in and help restore your home.

Grilling Tips!

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

Spring has arrived and summer is upon us, which means it's time to pull out those grills.

SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton would like to share some helpful grilling tips to prevent any fires from occurring while you're enjoying that quality time with family and friends.

Do:

1. Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your home.

2. Clean your grill regularly.

3. Make sure to check for gas leaks.

4. Keep decorations away from the grill.

5. Keep a spray bottle of water handy.

6. Keep a fire extinguisher within a couple of steps of your grill.

DON'T:

1. Turn on the gas while your grill lid is closed.


2. Leave a grill unattended.

3. Overload your grill with food.

4. Use a grill indoors

Every Second Counts When It Comes To Restoring Your Property

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

Every Second Counts When It Comes To Restoring Your Property

 

Fire damage, no matter the size, can affect every square inch of your property. It can travel through air ducts, burn through ceilings and floors, and damage countless pieces of equipment and documents.

SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has access to thousands of pieces of equipment and hundreds of personnel to help mitigate even the largest fire damage. Our experienced technicians utilize industry knowledge, training, experience, high-tech equipment, and proprietary cleaning products to perform emergency services to meet our customer’s cleaning and restoration needs.

Performed immediately following a loss in order to reduce property and content damage, our emergency services reduce claims’ expense, and minimize customer disruption.

While the types of emergency services we provide vary, our emergency response includes:

  • Boarding up the structure and securing the property to help prevent intrusions.
  • Drying the structure. Water is often used to extinguish a fire, so excess water or moisture must be monitored and removed.
  • Deodorization of the affected areas.
  • Pre-testing and initial cleaning. Initial cleaning may help prevent additional damage caused by soot residue, and pre-testing allows the technician to determine what can be restored to help eliminate needless and costly expenses.
  • Conducting building inspections to evaluate the loss site for any safety or health hazards.

Call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for all your Fire Restoration needs!

Fire damage and what to do after a fire

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

When a homeowner sees the fire truck leave their home after extinguishing a fire, it’s not uncommon for the owner to ask the question, What’s next? Since this kind of devastation can leave the owners head spinning, it may be difficult to make the wisest decisions, especially based on the knowledge that they have acquired over the years. Also, if this is the owners first experience with dealing with a home fire, they may be confused and stunned. Fortunately, there are resources available that can assist a homeowner with getting through these hours with as little as disruptions and discomfort as possible. By calling SERVPRO, a representative will arrive with the knowledge to provide home owners with a comprehensive plan to restore their property to its original preloss condition, "Like it never even happened." 

Emergency Services – 24/7 
Because a fire can occur in a home at any time of the day or night, it is important that the family can get the help that they need without any unnecessary delays. In fact, once the fire truck leaves the property, it is essential that the owner and their family know how to respond to minimize this devastating situation of fire damage to their Vidalia home. For instance, the windows and doors should be boarded up so that intruders cannot enter the home and cause additional damage or begin to take away items that were not damaged by the fire. This is why we offer emergency services to the owners that contact us, especially so we can help with taking the appropriate actions, while also devising a plan. Additionally, because no job is too small or too big, our technicians are trained in developing a customized plan to fit your situation. 
 
Highly Trained Experienced Professional Restoration Technicians Even if a homeowner has dealt with fire damage in the home before, they can still use the help of a professional. This is because fire damage must be handled by trained experienced professionals that know how to restore the home to its pre-fire condition. For instance, when a fire occurs in the home, there are a wide variety of damages remaining. One of the most common involves extracting all of the water that the firefighters used to put out the fire as quickly as possible, specifically so that the family does not have to deal with mold or mildew growing in their home. Another part of the clean-up process deals with smoke damage. While some areas of the home may not show any visible signs of fire damage, the smoke and soot from the fire can circulate to unaffected rooms. The SERVPRO fire & smoke remediation technicians, FSRT, certified by the IICRC and in-house training, use specialized equipment to remove the smoke from the carpeting, draperies, flooring, walls, ceilings and other areas that have been affected. Ozone machines, air scrubbers, and several types of foggers help to limit this kind of smoke and soot damage.

When firefighters pull away from a home after a fire, the homeowner is tasked with the job of cleaning up and getting the home back to a pre-fire condition. To ensure the clean-up process is handled correctly, the owner will need to solicit help. Because our technicians are highly trained in fire restoration cleaning up services, we can assist you with doing a thorough job before occupying the home again. So, for help with fire damage in your home, contact SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton at (912) 538-1323.

Preventing Kitchen Fires

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

Fire safety is extremely important. The kitchen is an area in the home that is more likely to catch fire. Keep reading for some safe cooking tips for your kitchen. Before cooking, you want to wear clothes that are closer to your body so it does not get too close to a hot surface. Check the area for anything too close to a burner such as paper towels, pot holders, food packaging, and more. Clean the area before cooking in case there is any residue left from previous cooking. While you are cooking, never leave the stove unattended. This could easily catch fire and spread to other others quickly. In addition, you need to have a fire extinguisher somewhere close to your kitchen in case of a fire. Most people assume the best place to keep it is close to the stove or oven. This would be wrong. If a fire breaks out in that area, the last thing you need to do is go toward the fire and harm yourself. Keep the fire extinguisher in a place such as the pantry or close cabinet that is away from any area that is more prominent to a fire. If you experience a fire in your home and need SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton at (912) 538-1323.

Types of Common House Fires

3/20/2018 (Permalink)

The most common type of house fires starts in the kitchen. The most common kitchen fire is a grease fire. It can be started very easily and spread if not properly put out. *Do not put water on a grease fire, you want to cover it. Another common house fire is due to electrical wiring. It can be from faulty wiring or old wiring. During the cold winter months, a fire can be due to a heater. Portable heaters need to be used when someone is watching it closely or where it will turn off if overheating. Lastly, a major cause of a home fire is smoke-related. People falling asleep with a cigarette in their hand can cause a major house fire. If you are disposing a cigarette in the home, make sure it is properly extinguished before placing in a trash can or emptying the ashtray.

What to do after a fire?

3/20/2018 (Permalink)

First, you want to ensure someone such as the Fire Marshall has cleared you to enter your home for safety reasons. At this point, you can go through your home to see the damage and possibly gather items you can keep. Second, you want to document everything- damaged items and items that can be restored. Take as many pictures of your home as is for insurance purposes. You may want to take a note pad and write notes while going through your home. If the fire was in one room, you still may have the smoke odor in other rooms. It is important to carefully note this for insurance and restoration companies. Lastly, call a restoration company such as SERVPRO of Dublin, Vidalia, Claxton to come in and help restore your home

Summer Fire Safety

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

If you have an emergency, SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton is available 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days throughout the year. We understand your emergency cannot always fall between business hours which is why we are here to serve you better. We help with smoke or fire damage to your personal belongings, home, or business. We will make it look “like it never even happened.” Follow these simple tips to help you and those you love stay fire safe this summer season!

  • Attend public fireworks displays and leave the lighting to the professionals.
  • Enjoy outdoor celebrations and cookouts but remember to keep a 3-foot “safe zone” around grills and campfires.
  • Build campfires at least 15 feet away from tent walls, shrubs or other materials that burn.

Safety for your Grill

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

As Spring quickly approaches, it is time for grilling out with friends and family again. Grilling can become dangerous quickly. Leaving the grill unattended, improper cleaning grease or fat, placing the grill near combustible items can cause serious injuries to a person or property. Listed below are some tips on grilling safety.

  • Gas-fueled grills account for 4 out of 5 grill fires.
  • Choose a safe location for your grill.
  • Only grill outside.
  • Teach children grills can be dangerous and to be careful around a grill.
  • Remember how to properly clean your grill after use.

Grilling can be a fun time to gather around and share stories over hot dogs and hamburgers. SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton assures consumers that if you fall victim to damage to your home due to a grill, we will be there to serve you.

Every Second Counts When It Comes to Restoring Your Property

12/6/2016 (Permalink)

Every Second Counts When It Comes To Restoring Your Property
 

Fire damage, no matter the size, can affect every square inch of your property. It can travel through air ducts, burn through ceilings and floors, and damage countless pieces of equipment and documents.

SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton has access to thousands of pieces of equipment and hundreds of personnel to help mitigate even the largest fire damage. Our experienced technicians utilize industry knowledge, training, experience, high-tech equipment, and proprietary cleaning products to perform emergency services to meet our customer’s cleaning and restoration needs.

Performed immediately following a loss in order to reduce property and content damage, our emergency services reduce claims’ expense, and minimize customer disruption.

While the types of emergency services we provide vary, our emergency response includes:

  • Boarding up the structure and securing the property to help prevent intrusions.
  • Drying the structure. Water is often used to extinguish a fire, so excess water or moisture must be monitored and removed.
  • Deodorization of the affected areas.
  • Pre-testing and initial cleaning. Initial cleaning may help prevent additional damage caused by soot residue, and pre-testing allows the technician to determine what can be restored to help eliminate needless and costly expenses.
  • Conducting building inspections to evaluate the loss site for any safety or health hazards.

Call SERVPRO of Dublin/Vidalia/Claxton for all your Fire Restoration needs!