Cleaning Up Soot in Zanesville

12/6/2022 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (740)-844-0977

Are You Cooking This Holiday? Be Prepared With Fire Safety Tips

12/5/2022 (Permalink)

*Keep an eye on your cooking and stay in the kitchen. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of cooking fires.

*Wear short or close-fitting sleeves. Loose clothing can catch fire.

*Watch children closely. When old enough, teach children to cook safely.

*Clean cooking surfaces to prevent food and grease build-up.

*Keep curtains, towels and pot holders away from hot surfaces and store solvents and flammable cleaners away from heat sources. Never keep gasoline in the house.

*Turn pan handles inward to prevent food spills.

*If you have to leave the kitchen, even for a second, turn off the stove.

*Use a timer so you’ll remember that the stove or oven is on.

*Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.

*Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen. Contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.

Christmas Safety: Extension Cords Edition

12/1/2022 (Permalink)

Not enough cord for your lamp or radio to reach the nearest outlet? Just plowing through the junk drawer for an extension cord? This may not be a good idea. Extension cords can be very helpful in delivering power right where we need it. However, regardless of the gauge or rating of the cord, an extension cord is a temporary solution, and is not meant to be used as a long-term extension of your household’s electrical system.

 
Using extension cords properly is critical to your safety. With continuous use over time, an extension cord can rapidly deteriorate, creating a potentially dangerous electric shock or fire hazard. The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) offers the following tips for staying safe from electric shock and electrical fires:

• Do not overload extension cords or allow them to run through water or snow on the ground.
• Do not substitute extension cords for permanent wiring.
• Do not run through walls, doorways, ceilings or floors. If cord is covered, heat cannot escape, which may result in a fire hazard.
• Do not use an extension cord for more than one appliance.
• A heavy reliance on extension cords is an indication that you have too few outlets to address your needs. Have additional outlets installed where you need them.
• Multiple plug outlets must be plugged directly into mounted electrical receptacles; they cannot be chained together.
• Make sure the extension cord or temporary power strip you use is rated for the products to be plugged in, and is marked for either indoor or outdoor use.
• The appliance or tool that you are using the cord with will have a wattage rating on it. Match this up with your extension cord, and do not use a cord that has a lower rating.
• Never use a cord that feels hot or is damaged in any way. Touching even a single exposed strand can give you an electric shock or burn.
• Never use three-prong plugs with outlets that only have two slots for the plug. Do not cut off the ground pin to force a fit. This defeats the purpose of a three-prong plug and could lead to an electrical shock. Never force a plug into an outlet if it doesn’t fit.
• Use extension cords with polarized and/or three-prong plugs.
• Buy only cords approved by an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), ETL-SEMKO (ETL) or Canadian Standards Association (CSA).
• Do not substitute extension cords for permanent wiring.

Cleaning up Soot

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

A fire can cause major damage to your home. That damage varies depending on the temperature of the fire, and what kind of material is being burnt. We can clean it all. Wet or dry soot natural burnt fibers or synthetic. We have the solution for the job. We usually use Wall and All rinse or another wet solution for heavy wet soot. This allows us to not only clean , but deodorize walls and other surfaces. So what do we do with dry soot, and walls that can't be wet? We use a DRY SPONGE. This sponge is magical and can clean and hold in soot from dry  surfaces such as ceiling and latex painted walls. It allows our technicians to clean any surface any time!

Fire's still happen during spring! Be prepared!

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

After a fire our job is to go in and make everything smell, and look as it did before. This includes using both wet, and dry techniques to clean away soot, and smoke residue. Sometimes we have to demolish parts of the home, and start from scratch. The hardest part of a fire restoration job is getting the smoke smell out of the home, and their belongings. We have special cleaning solutions that break down soot, detergents for smoke damaged clothe materials, deodorizers for most surfaces, and where it is really bad we use our Ozone or Hydroxyl machine which can beat almost any smell, and get air to where it should be again. So no matter what kind of damage your home had occurred because of fire. We can help! If you have smoke or other odors, give us a call at (740) 844-0977. 

Fire Safety This Winter In Zanesville

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

We often hear of the house fires in our community and band together to help our neighbors in need, but most of us like to believe we will never be in their situation. Unfortunately, fire can happen to anyone. Even those who take extra precautions to avoid them. When you hear your smoke detector go off, or realize you have a fire. It is important not to panic. You need to exit the building as quickly as possible closing all doors, and windows on your way out if possible. Always, check for heat before opening any closed doors. You do this by placing the palm of your hand on the door. It is also very important to stay as low to the ground as you can, because smoke rises, and smoke inhalation can be fatal. After vacating the building immediately call 911 so they can send your local Fire Department. If you are unable to get out there are things you can do to spare time while waiting to be rescued. Stay low of course, and get a wet blanket if at all possible to put over you. This helps prevent smoke inhalation. Always stay in one spot in an open area if  so the Fireman can find you. If you hear them calling for you make sure you make noise. If the smoke is not thick you can yell, but it is better to make other noises. You can bang on the wall, or floor, even blow a whistle if you have one. Try to wait by the nearest window, and leave all door ways clear. This is so the fireman get to you without anyone getting injured. After, the fire is over. it may seem like all is lost, but this is where SERVPRO can help. We specialize is fire restoration, and are trained to help you in your time of need.

Fire Safety: Christmas Edition

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

While we love decorating for Christmas, fires related to either Christmas trees or lights is a huge problem each year. Use these tips to help prevent the Christmas Fire. 

1. Connect no more than 3 strands of mini light sets together, plugged into the same power outlet.
2. Make certain no more than 50 bulbs are used simultaneously in screw-in light bulb sets.
3. Make sure your Christmas tree is at least 3 feet away from any heat source, including space heaters, radiators, fireplaces, candles and even heat vents.
4. Keep candles at least 12 feet away from anything that is flammable.
5. Consider using electrical candles instead of flame-producing candles.
6. Keep your tree well-watered. Dry trees account for the vast majority of Christmas tree fires.
7. Get rid of your Christmas tree after Christmas or when it is dry.
8. Use the right type of extension cord. Two-wire extension cords are usually fine for indoor lights, but be certain to use a three-wire, grounded extension cord for any outdoor light display.
9. Do not overload outlets by using mutiple-plug adapters.
10. Check for damage or deterioration to any extension cords and discard if any damage or deterioration is evident.
11. Do not connect extension cords together for longer runs. It is safer to use a single cord of the correct length.
12. Always turn off festive decorations, both indoor and outdoor, when you leave the house or go to bed.
13. As always, instruct your family on appropriate fire safety rules and procedures. Make sure you have fire escape routes planned throughout the home and that all family members are properly instructed in their use. Test your fire alarms weekly.

We hope these helped. If you do need us for any smoke or fire damage clean up, please call anytime at (740) 844-0977.

Let's Get Rid of Those Smoke Odors!

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

After a fire most of the time there is a strong odor left behind. This odor stays even after surfaces have been cleaned. In order to neutralize these smoke odors we use special deodorizers. One of my favorites is the Lemon Fresh Deodorizer. It doesn't just cover up smells it actually neutralizes them by forming a complex with them. Lemon Fresh can be used on most water stable surfaces and fabrics. It also works on cigarette smoke, and other household odors. Lemon Fresh can be used in any area of the home, and is lightly dispersed with a mister. It will leave your home smelling lemony fresh, and of course clean! So don't despair we have what it takes to get your home back to preloss condition.

A Fire Doesn't Mean You Have To Start Over

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

A fire is always devastating. Even if it was stopped before getting out of hand, you are left with a mess, and smoke damage. All your furniture, carpets, and belongings are now covered is thick soot, and stink like a campfire. You may think your only option is to replace all the contents of your home. All the items that took you years to obtain, the items that are irreplaceable and sentimental to you are now all of a sudden gone. Don't fret though this isn’t always the case! Replacement isn't your only option. We are able to go in clean, restore and deodorize your home, and belongings. We have special solutions that dissolve, and conquer smoke damage. We leave your home fresh, while saving you money, and precious memories. Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."

Fire Safety Month is Here!!

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Fire safety month is a great time of year to educate those on what to do if you experience a fire.

       When you hear your smoke detector go off, or realize you have a fire. It is important not to panic. You need to exit the building as quickly as possible closing all doors, and windows on your way out if possible. Always, check for heat before opening any closed doors. You do this by placing the palm of your hand on the door. It is also very important to stay as low to the ground as you can, because smoke rises, and smoke inhalation can be fatal. After vacating the building immediately call 911 so they can send your local Fire Department. If you are unable to get out there are things you can do to spare time while waiting to be rescued. Stay low of course, and get a wet blanket if at all possible to put over you. This helps prevent smoke inhalation. Always stay in one spot in an open area if  so the Fireman can find you. If you hear them calling for you make sure you make noise. If the smoke is not thick you can yell, but it is better to make other noises. You can bang on the wall, or floor, even blow a whistle if you have one. Try to wait by the nearest window, and leave all door ways clear. This is so the fireman get to you without anyone getting injured. After, the fire is over. it may seem like all is lost, but this is where SERVPRO can help. We specialize is fire restoration, and are trained to help you in your time of need.

We are Trained to Care!

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

When our technicians go onto a fire site we take in consideration that this is possibly one of the worst times in our clients life. They have just lost or damage has occurred to their belongings that they worked so hard for. We know that you are stressed, and kinda lost when it comes to what is next in the journey of your homes restoration. We make sure to keep track of all of our activity, and keep you updated so you always know what to expect. We also makes sure you do not have to do anything, but sit back and let us restore your home to it's prior state. If you call SERVPRO you are getting more than just a cleaning company. You are getting a friend, and partner in your time of need!

Sound the Alarm

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

In October the U.S and Canada participates in fire prevention week. To help bring awareness the Red Cross is participating in the sound the alarm program. They will be going to low income neighborhoods, and installing free smoke alarms. They like to get the local fire departments involved along with the community.If your interested in helping please contact your local RED Cross.This is a program that the Red Cross participates in every year to try, and reduce the number of lives lost due to home fires. They work hard to make sure the families in our communities are aware of the importance of fire safety, and just a little bit safer in case a fire does occur. Thank you to all participating Red Crosses. Your dedication is appreciated.

Smoke Damage? No Problem!

8/13/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke damage is a tricky mister. It usually doesn't reside in one area of your home. When you have a fire smoke travels and most surfaces easily absorb the odors it leaves behind. It is our job to go in find the hidden odors and restore your home to preloss conditions. Successfully do this includes using both wet, and dry techniques to clean away soot, and smoke residues left behind. The hardest part of a fire restoration job is getting the smoke smell out of the home, and your belongings. We have special cleaning solutions that break down soot, detergents for smoke damaged clothe materials, deodorizers for most surfaces, and where it is really bad we use our Ozone machine which can beat almost any smell, and get air to where it should be again healthy breathable and fresh. No matter the situation we are here to help!

Fire Star #356

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

We have many products that will clean up and deodorize smoke damaged homes and items. For the heaviest smoke damage we have our go to Fire Star cleaning solution. It is one of the most effective cleaners on the market. It is great for product for brightening metals. It can't be used on everything so our technicians make sure to pre-test before using it on any of your surfaces. Like all of our products it is safe to use and effective. It can even be used with other solutions like our Wall and All Surface cleaner, and Wall and All Plus. We mainly use it for things such as range hoods and other areas that might have excessive build up and damage. It is just another tool we use to get your home back to preloss condition.

Fire Pack Out

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

Experiencing a fire in your home is devastating, and can be overwhelming at times. Often you have numerous restoration specialist,contractors, and insurance adjusters in and out of your home. Things are usually a mess and it is easy to get side tracked among  all the chaos. During a fire SERVPRO will help you communicate with your insurance company, and can even sub-contract your contractor needs.

While restoring your home to preloss condition. We not only clean your home itself, but we can do your contents as well. In these situations we actually perform a pack out for you. All your contents are inspected, inventoried and then cleaned right at our shop. Leaving room for contractors to repair your home. This makes it easier to make sure not corner goes untouched. When they are done and your home has been sanitized we bring it back for you. We try to make the process as easy and painless as possible. we know you already have so much on your plate, and are always here to help.

No Soot too Thick No Smell too Strong

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO we specialize in fire restoration along with an array of other different services. When dealing with soot from a fire clean up can seem impossible. With the right tools however we are able to get your home back to pre-existing condition. We can clean all surfaces. We have Dry Sponges for you flat painted walls and ceilings. This allows us to remove soot without the help of any kind of cleaning solution. Making sure your paint is not discolored or removed. We also have a solution called Wall and All Wash & Rinse.  It has a PH that is safe to use on most surfaces including walls, ceilings. You apply your wash to an area, and then apply the rinse. This leaves your surfaces looking and smelling brand new. No matter the consistency or the type of soot your fire left behind. Our technicians can and will take the best route to making your fire "Like it never even happened."

Soot Cleanup!

5/17/2018 (Permalink)

When even the smallest fire occurs in your home there is usually damage done. Smoke and soot damage can be very detrimental to your health. That is why when there is a fire in your home you need to make sure it is properly cleaned. We have special cleaning solutions and equipment to knock out smoke stains and smells. These include things such as..

• Wall and All Wash and rinse solution
• Dry sponges
• SERVPRO Green
• Ozone Machine

Wall and All allows us to clean glossy painted walls and most everyday surfaces.The same goes for SERVPRO Green. We use it mainly for content, and surface cleaning.The Dry Sponge canbe used for ceilings and flat painted walls or surfaces that ca not be wet washed.

After we have thoroughly cleaned thearea we can eliminate hard,set in odors by running the ozone in the affected areas. This cleans anddeodorizes the air and contents with in the given area.

Heating with a Wood Burning Stove?

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

With the temperatures so low and the cost of heating so high. Many homeowners have opted to use wood burning stoves to heat their homes. This method is efficient and perfectly safe. As long as you follow a few safety tips. 

• Most importantly make sure you have smoke and Carbon monoxide detectors installed throughout your home
• Make sure your stove is properly installed, and has been inspected by a professional.
• Keep all contents the proper distance away from the stove. Per your cities fire safe guidelines. It is usually  at least 3ft.
• Use seasoned wood only and light small bright fires. No paper or trash!
• Clean you chimney yearly and have it inspected.

Have a safe warm winter!

A Clean Chimney is a safe Chimney

12/18/2017 (Permalink)

There are only 7 days until Christmas, and this winter is going to be a cold one. With it fast approaching. It is important to make sure your chimney is clean. Not only does the big guy appreciate it. It also helps to prevent unwanted fires, smoke and soot back up. You want to always check for material build up and small animals. You can call in a professional or clean your chimney yourself. With the proper tools of course. If you choose the DIY option.Make sure to prepare your home with a few drop cloths around the fire place. This is  to prevent your contents from being soiled. Also always clean top to bottom. Your chimney will be Santa approved and ready for his arrival.

Happy Holidays from SERVPRO Zanesville/Cambridge!!

Thanksgiving Fire!!

11/20/2017 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving is to me one of the best holidays. Good food, family, and friends nothing makes me feel more thankful than that. Thanksgiving to most people means a huge feast prepared by mom, grandma, or another loved one. Roasted or deep fried turkey, mashed potatoes, and pies are usually among the many entrees presented in most homes. This means hours of cooking, for the presenter. Sometimes they get rushed or sidetracked, and it leads to a fire. The greatest number of home fires are said to occur on Thanksgiving Day. The top causes are food being left or forgotten while cooking on the stove or in the oven. Leaving heat sources to close to materials and of course deep frying that turkey. So be safe the holiday season, and enjoy your meal!

Fire Safety Month!

10/25/2017 (Permalink)

In honor of fire safety month, here are some tips to stay safe!

• Make sure you have smoke alarms on every level of your home. If you can not afford to buy them. The Red Cross or your local fire department would be happy to install some for you. 
• Test your alarms every month. Too often a smoke alarm is present, but not in working order.
• Make sure you and your family have a fire escape plan. Make sure every one knows their exit, and where to meet after you get out of the house.
• Always stay low to avoid smoke inhalation.
• Get out as soon as possible. Do not worry about belongings or pets. The Firefighters will do their job.
• When you're out safely. CALL FOR HELP!

Dry Sponge

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

When a client has a fire there is usually a large amount of soot left behind. Dry soot is easier to clean then wet soot. So to make things as easy as possible, and to make sure not to damage the client's paint or wallpaper we use a Dry Sponge. This special sponge allows us to get the majority of the soot off without risking damage due to wet cleaning techniques. Our technicians take the dry sponge and go over surfaces such as walls with wall paper, or other surfaces that may be damage by cleaning solutions. The rest of the home is cleaned using special solutions,deodorizers, and Ozone machines. These techniques combined leave the home clean, and fresh. Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened"

Fire!!

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

When our technicians go onto a fire site we take in consideration that this is possibly one of the worst times in our clients life. They have just lost or damage has occurred to their belongings that they worked so hard for. We know that you are stressed, and kinda lost when it comes to what is next in the journey of your homes restoration. We make sure to keep track of all of our activity, and keep you updated so you always know what to expect. We also makes sure you do not have to do anything, but sit back and let us restore your home to it's prior state. If you call SERVPRO you are getting more than just a cleaning company. You are getting a friend, and partner in your time of need!

Fire Prevention!

8/29/2017 (Permalink)

In October the U.S and Canada participates in fire prevention week. In order to do our part SERVPRO Zanesville Cambridge is partnering with the Red Cross, and participating in the sound the alarm program. We will be going to low income neighborhoods, and installing free smoke alarms. We are looking to get the local fire departments involved along with the community.If your interested in helping please contact us.This is a program that the Red Cross participates in every year to try, and reduce the number of lives lost due to home fires. As part of the community SERVPRO always tries to do their part in helping whenever possible. We look forward to working with the Red Cross this year, as well as many more to come!

Fire! What to do if it Happens to you!

8/14/2017 (Permalink)

Fire is scary, and if you have one it is very important to know what to do. First, do not panic. When you panic it is easy to forget things, and to make mistakes. This is the last thing you want to do during a fire. When you hear your smoke detector go off, or realize you have a fire. You need to exit the building as quickly as possible closing all doors, and windows on your way out if possible. Always, check for heat before opening any closed doors. You do this by placing the palm of your hand on the door. It is also very important to stay as low to the ground as possible, because smoke rises, and smoke inhalation can be fatal. After vacating the building immediately call 911 so they can send your local Fire Department. If you are unable to get out there are things you can do to spare time while waiting to be rescued. Stay low of course, and wet a blanket if at all possible to put over you. This helps prevent smoke inhalation. Always stay in one spot in an open area if possible so the Fireman can find you. If you hear them calling for you make sure you make noise. If the smoke is not thick you can yell, but it is better to make other noises. You can bang on the wall, or floor, even blow a whistle if you have one. Try to wait by the nearest window, and leave all door ways clear if possible. This is so the fireman can bust them down and get to you without injuring you or themselves. After, the fire is over. it may seem like all is lost, but this is where SERVPRO can help. We specialize is fire restoration, and are trained to help you in your time of need. So to sum it up......
1. Get Out if Possible
2. Close doors, and windows to reduce oxygen to the fire.
3.Stay as low as possible
4. Call 911 when safely outside
If you can not get out
1.Stay low and get to the nearest window
2. Wet a blanket and place it around you to help with smoke inhalation
3. Make sure all doorways are clear for the responders
4. Respond if possible to responders ( Make noise let them know you are there).
Last but certainly not least when everyone is safe call SERVPRO, and we will be there to help.