How to Cleanup After Fire Damage

4/8/2024 (Permalink)

When you experience fire damage in your residential home or commercial property a lot of the cleanup time can be consuming.

When you experience fire damage in your residential home or commercial property in Cranberry, Oil City, Meadville, or surrounding areas, a lot of the cleanup time can be consuming. SERVPRO of Crawford / NE Venango Counties is available 24/7 to help you clean up your property after you experience fire damage. Some side effects of fire damage can include soot and smoke damage. Soot and smoke can affect every knook and cranny of your home or commercial property. You can tackle this task on your own, however, when tackling it on your own, it can be quite the bothersome task. At SERVPRO, our professionals are experienced and trained in cleaning every job efficiently and effectively. 

If you have experienced a fire in your residential or commercial property, please do not hesitate to reach out to us! We are located right near you to be available when you need help most. Give us a call today to see what we can do for you! Call (814) 350-7651. 

How to Prevent Fires During the Holidays in Cranberry

11/18/2023 (Permalink)

To prevent fires during the holidays, there are several measures you can take.

To prevent fires during the holidays, there are several measures you can take. First, check all your electrical decorations for damage and frayed wires before plugging them in. Second, use battery-operated candles instead of traditional ones to reduce the risk of accidental fires. Third, keep flammable materials such as wrapping paper away from heat sources like fireplaces and candles. Fourth, never leave cooking food unattended and always make sure to turn off stove burners and ovens after use. Finally, have working smoke detectors installed throughout your home in case of an emergency.

If you experience a fire in your Cranberry, Meadville, Linesville, or surrounding areas home during the holidays, don’t hesitate to give SERVPRO of Crawford / NE Venango Counties a call. We are available 24/7 for emergency fire disasters. We’re always Here to Help®. For immediate assistance call, (814) 350-7651 or visit our Website to learn more!

How to Have Safe Bonfires in the Fall Season

10/7/2023 (Permalink)

It is not uncommon for bonfires to get out of control, so it is important to know certain safety measures prior to holding your annual bonfire.

One of the perks of cooler weather in the Fall season is enjoying bonfires outside with friends and family. It is not uncommon for bonfires to get out of control, so it is important to know certain safety measures prior to holding your annual bonfire. John Hopkins Medicine provides good advice to have safe bonfires this season. By following these tips, you’ll save fire damage to your Cranberry, Saegertown, Linesville and surrounding areas home. Here are some tips below: 

• Be sure you are at least 25 feet away from structures or anything else that can burn before building a fire. Choose an open, level location and clear away any dry leaves and sticks, overhanging branches and shrubs.
• Never use gasoline, kerosene or any other flammable liquid to start a fire. Instead, use a match or lighter to ignite tinder (small twigs and dry leaves); add larger sticks and pieces of dry wood.
• Keep the fire small and controlled, and never leave it unattended.
• Keep a hose, a bucket of water, or a shovel and dirt or sand nearby to extinguish the fire once you’re finished. Be sure the fire is completely out before leaving the site — any remaining embers could ignite, with disastrous consequences.

In case you ever do experience fire damage, by a bonfire or another disastrous event, you can call SERVPRO of Crawford / NE Venango Counties day or night. We are available 24/7 for emergency fire disasters. Our team is trained and experienced to restore your home back to its previous condition. For immediate assistance, call (814) 350-7651 or visit our Website to learn more.

How to Prevent Cranberry House Fires During the Holidays

9/30/2023 (Permalink)

Fires are highly likely during the holidays due to all of the time spent in the kitchen. Make sure to lead with caution when you are in the kitchen.

Fires are highly likely during the holidays due to all of the time spent in the kitchen. Make sure to lead with caution when you are making meals in your Venus, Seneca, Saegertown, and surrounding areas home. There are several measures that you can take to prevent house fires during the holidays. 

• First, ensure that your Christmas lights and decorations are made of flame-retardant materials. 
• Second, avoid overloading electrical outlets with multiple high-voltage devices. 
• Third, keep Christmas trees and other decorations away from heat sources such as fireplaces and heaters. 
• Fourth, make sure that your smoke detectors are functioning properly and have fresh batteries installed. 
• Lastly, have an escape plan in place in case of a fire and make sure that everyone in your household knows what to do in an emergency. 

If you happen to experience a fire in your Cranberry, Meadville, Titusville, and surrounding areas home, we are Here to Help. SERVPRO of Crawford/NE Venango Counties is available 24/7 for emergency fire disasters. For immediate assistance, call (814) 350-7651, or visit our Website for more information.

Heating Equipment Safety Tips for Your Saegertown Home

4/21/2023 (Permalink)

Heating equipment fires can be caused by a variety of factors, including malfunctioning equipment, lack of maintenance, and human error.

One of the most common causes of home fires in the winter time is due to heating equipment being ignored. This can mean setting something flammable atop of a furnace, leaving a stove on, and many more careless incidents. Let’s learn a little more about this to prevent a fire at your Titusville home…

Heating equipment fires can be caused by a variety of factors, including malfunctioning equipment, lack of maintenance, and human error. These types of fires can be particularly dangerous because they can spread quickly and are often difficult to extinguish. To prevent heating equipment fires, it's important to have all heating equipment, including furnaces, boilers, and space heaters, regularly inspected and maintained by a qualified professional. This can help identify and address any potential issues before they become serious safety hazards.

Additionally, it's important to use heating equipment safely and appropriately. This includes following the manufacturer's instructions for use and ensuring that the equipment is placed on a level, stable surface away from any flammable materials. Space heaters should also never be left unattended and should be turned off when not in use. If a heating equipment fire does occur, it's important to immediately evacuate the building and call the fire department. Never attempt to extinguish the fire yourself, as this can be extremely dangerous to your Venus home and its inhabitants. 

If you or someone you know experiences a fire in their Conneautville home due to heating equipment, you’re in the right place. Call SERVPRO of Crawford and Venango Counties today at (814) 350-7651 for immediate assistance, or visit our website!

Cooking Safety Tips in for Meadville Homes

1/29/2023 (Permalink)

Home fires can strike at any time, but did you know that December through March are the peak months for home fires?

Home fires can strike at any time, but did you know that December through March are the peak months for home fires? And I bet you can guess which room takes the most heat (pun intended). That’s right, the kitchen. Obviously, the kitchen gets the most love during the holidays, which in turn, increases the likelihood of cooking fires. Let SERVPRO of Crawford / NE Venango Counties, PA give you some tips on how to keep those flames at bay at your Cochranton home.

• Always keep flammable items away from flames and hot surfaces, including oven mitts and dish towels.
• Always have your eye on the stove and oven. Do not walk away and always set timers.
• Keep a clear path for walking. Do not leave bags, groceries, or toys in the way.
• Do not cook if you are tired. It is best to grab a pizza instead.
• Always use caution when dealing with hot pans and scalding hot liquids, such as oil.
• Make sure children stay out of the kitchen as much as possible.
• If a fire should ignite follow these safety guidelines from John Hopkins Medicine:
• Do not pour water on it. Water can cause oil to splash, which can spread the fire.
• Slide a lid over the pan to smother the fire and turn off the stovetop, leaving the pan covered until it has completely cooled; alternatively, baking soda can also be used to extinguish small grease fires.
• If there is an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the oven door closed.
• Take your loved ones with you, but do not re-enter your home to get your cellphone, computer, or other personal belongings.

Once the fire is put out and it is safe to enter the home again, allow SERVPRO of Crawford / NE Venango Counties, PA to help you pick up the pieces. In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your Venus, Seneca, Conneaut Lake, or surrounding areas home or commercial building may also suffer from water damage because of the firefighting efforts. Your local SERVPRO specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home, so it looks "Like it never even happened."

If you are in need of cleaning or restoration services, call SERVPRO of Crawford / NE Venango Counties for immediate assistance or visit our Website to learn more! Call (814) 350-7651.

Are Dusty Vents a Fire Hazard for Your Cochranton Home?

1/16/2023 (Permalink)

When was the last time you changed the filter to the furnace? Did you know it is recommended every 3 months?

The air vents in your Meadville, Cranberry, Linesville, and surrounding areas home are not necessarily the first item on your weekly cleaning list. Let’s be honest, they really are not that gratifying to clean, and you need a screwdriver. “Ain’t nobody got time for that.” But SERVPRO of Crawford / NE Venango Counties is here to tell you why you should make the extra effort.

• Is a dusty vent really a fire hazard? Yes! Buildup of dust, dander, and soot is a fire hazard. Any large pile of dust can be ignited either by contact with a spark, or if the surface it is settled on becomes very hot. Also, if a heating unit is older, does not work well, and works extra hard at your chilly Pleasantville home, it can also throw sparks.
• How does it ignite? The burners and heat the exchanger of the furnace are the components that heat the air of your home. The burners heat the exchanger to a very high degree. Near or above the furnace, in the “plenum”, dust will accumulate with time and occasionally fall onto the heat exchanger. If the debris pile becomes large enough, there can be a very serious risk a fire igniting inside the furnace.
• Furnace filter hazards. When was the last time you changed the filter to the furnace? Did you know it is recommended every 3 months? The filter’s purpose is so dust does not accumulate in your home. But if the filter is not changed regularly, it cannot do its job and even worse, it can potentially sink, and get sucked into the furnace itself, allowing the dust it carries to catch fire.
• Clean those ducts! The best way to reduce the likelihood of vent fires is to make sure they are clean. If you want to try and tackle the job yourself. Here is an easy tutorial.

But, if you want to hire a professional to make sure it is done right, call SERVPRO of Crawford / NE Venango Counties. Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit for fires and poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your home or business.

For more information on HVAC and air duct cleaning visit our Website or call (814) 350-7651.

Fireplace Safety 101 for Jamestown, PA

12/14/2022 (Permalink)

You may be tempted to get into the winter spirit by turning on your fireplace, but have you serviced or taken care of it in a while?

Living in Western Pennsylvania at this time of year means it is already cold. In fact---the snow has already started to fall, leaving a white blanket across the grass. You may be tempted to get into the winter spirit by turning on your fireplace, but have you serviced or taken care of it in a while? SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties is here to give you some fireplace tips.

• Watch how long you use the fireplace. This should not be used as a furnace. Do not burn longer than 5 hours at a time.
• Keep a screen closed to stop sparks from hopping out to any carpeting.
• Have a certified chimney sweep come and service the chimney on a yearly basis.
• Clean the area where the logs burn every 7 days or so. Leave about an inch of ash to use as an insulator.
• Never ever use your vacuum to clean up ashes. Live coals can stay in those ashes longer than you think.
• Use a chimney cap to prevent any water damage from coming through. This also prevents animals from falling in and nesting.
• Always use the fireplace tools to move the logs around. Never use your hands.

Fireplaces sure are a beautiful sight and give us a lot winter joy. But always remember to take precautions and follow proper usage. Nearly half (48%) of all home heating fires occurred in November, December, January, and February. Heating equipment is a leading cause of fires in U.S. homes.

If fire, smoke, and soot strike your Meadville, Oil City, Cranberry, and surrounding areas property, SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties is ready to respond. In addition to battling with damage from the fire, your Linesville, Saegertown, Pleasantville, and surrounding areas property may also incur water damage from firefighting efforts. This type of damage may leave you and your family feeling confused, stressed, and overwhelmed. During this difficult time, you want a team that you know and can trust to guide your through the cleanup, sanitization, and restoration process. SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties is a leading company in fire and water damage restoration. We have state of the art equipment, highly trained technicians, and aim to give you peace of mind. If you are ever in need of professional cleaning or restoration, give us a call us at (814) 350-7651 or Learn More by visiting our website!

Thanksgiving Cooking Safety in Crawford County

11/18/2022 (Permalink)

As we are gearing towards the season with the most home fires, it is important to plan for an unpredicted disaster.

As we are gearing towards the season with the most home fires, it is important to plan for an unpredicted disaster. According to the National Fire Protection Association, “Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires with more than three times the daily average for such incidents.” The leading cause of Thanksgiving fires stem from lack of attention to food on the stove and turkey fryers. The NFPA urges citizens to “Stay in the kitchen and focus on the food you are cooking on the stovetop.”  They also suggest that children stay out of the kitchen in case of fire, hot oil, knives, and hot stoves. Keep your family safe this holiday season.

If you or someone you know experiences a detrimental fire on the holidays, contact your local SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties for disaster relief. Call us at (814) 350-7651 or visit our Website. We too, are homeowners of the area and want to make sure our community is taken care of.

SERVPRO Removes Smoke Odor

10/4/2022 (Permalink)

The smell of smoke is strong and can linger on materials for a long time.

Have you ever sat around a campfire and then forgotten to wash your sweatshirt until a week or two later? You pull it out of the laundry and can still smell the campfire smoke on it? The smell of smoke is strong and can linger on materials for a long time.

Now imagine that smell on a larger scale…cleaning up after a fire in your home or business can be a daunting task. Smoke rises, which can cause odors to linger in your home or attic long after the fire has been put out. But the good news is, the team at SERVPRO of West Erie County is experienced and ready to help at a moment’s notice.

How will SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties remove the smoke odor?

1. First, they will remove any smoke infected insulation and materials. Most attics have a large amount of insulation in the walls. The insulation makes the smoke smell stronger and keeps it lingering around because it traps the smell.
2. Then, they will clean the space with SERVPRO’s green chemicals and specialized cleaning technology.
3. Lastly, they will spray any wooden structures or beams with a specialized spray. The spray is a sealant that will lock in any remaining fire containments so they will not spread the smell any longer.
4. Additionally, any other restorable contents will be professionally cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This can include anything from electronics, kitchen items, art, bedding, and wood furniture.

Visit our Website for tips on what to do before help arrives, what to do after a fire, and what not to do.  SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties is professionally trained in restoring fire damage and removing smoke odor. Call SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties today, (814) 350-7651.

3 Main Causes of a Fire in Your Venango Home

9/30/2022 (Permalink)

House fires are detrimental and cause an immense amount of stress and worry.

House fires are detrimental and cause an immense amount of stress and worry. From the costs that come with this disaster to the loss of treasured belongings, the situation is not easy. Your whole life can change because of a small and simple mistake that was made. Here at SERVPRO Team Dobson, we want to make sure you are aware of the 3 main causes of a fire in your home. Having the knowledge of what causes a fire helps you to take action to help prevent a fire in the future. Here are the three main causes of a house fire:

• Cooking - Cooking in chaos can cause fires. Never leave dish towels or anything flammable on the stove. When cooking, never leave the room and keep a close eye on what is cooking.
• Candles - Never leave a candle in a room unattended. Keep candles away from flammable objects.
• Heating - Be aware when using portable heaters. These heaters are easily flammable if tipped over or left on too long.

SERVPRO of Crawford and Northeast Venango Counties specializes in fire and water - restoration and cleanup. We understand that if you have experienced a disaster, you need someone you can call on 24/7. Call us at any time, day, or night at (814) 350-7651 or visit our Website. We are Always Here to Help!

Home Fire Safety Hazards in Cochranton, PA

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

Cooking and heating are at the top of the home fire hazards list.

Cooking and heating are at the top of the home fire hazards list. Be attentive in the kitchen, keep kids and pets away from heaters and candles, and try to incorporate these practices into your home life.

When cooking:

• Stay in the kitchen whenever something is frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling.
• When simmering, baking, or roasting, check on the food regularly and use a timer.
• Don’t use the oven or the stove when you’re sleepy or under the influence of alcohol.
• Keep flammable objects at least 3 feet away from the stovetop.

When heating your home:

• Only purchase space heaters that shut off automatically when they fall over, and always place them on level, nonflammable surfaces.
• Never leave a space heater or a fireplace unattended. Make sure to turn off space heaters and extinguish all embers before leaving rooms.
• Keep flammable objects at least 3 feet away from space heaters or fireplaces.

SERVPRO of Crawford / NE Venango Counties are fire and water damage restoration specialists. We are always Here to Help, 24/7. Give us a call at (814) 350-7651 for immediate assistance or visit our Website!

How to Reduce Housefires in Cranberry, PA

1/29/2022 (Permalink)

Home is the place people feel safest from fire, but it’s actually the place they’re at greatest risk.

“Home is the place people feel safest from fire, but it’s actually the place they’re at greatest risk. Approximately 80% of all U.S. fire deaths occur in the home; an average of seven people die in home fires every day” (NFPA.org)

According to NFPA’s latest reports, home fires and home fire deaths declined by about 50% since 1980. These numbers show that while we’ve made strong progress in preventing fires, mitigating their effects when they do happen remains a challenge. Today’s homes burn faster than ever; You may have as little as two minutes (or even less) to safely escape a typical home fire from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Modern home furnishings, along with the fact that newer homes tend to be built with more open spaces and unprotected lightweight wood construction, all contribute to the increased rate at which home fires burn.

The death toll of home fires can be reduced through:

• Educating the public on how to prevent fires and how to avoid serious injury or death if fire occurs
• Properly installing, testing, and maintaining smoke alarms
• Developing and practicing escape plans
• Wider use of residential sprinkler systems
• Regulations to make home products more fire-safe
• Addressing the needs of groups at high risk of fire injury and death, particularly the aged, the disabled and the poor

SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties are fire and water damage restoration specialists. We are always Here to Help, 24/7. Give us a call at (814) 350-7651 for immediate assistance or visit our Website!

How to Check Your Home After a Fire in Pleasantville, PA

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

Before you enter your home after a fire, it is always important to check with the fire department to see if it is safe.

Before you enter your home after a fire, it is always important to check with the fire department to see if it is safe. According to The Red Cross, “Do not cut or walk past colored tape that was placed over doors or windows to mark damaged areas unless local authorities advise that it is safe to do so.” Once you have the go ahead from the fire department to enter your home, there are certain steps you should follow to ensure safety.

Steps to Take Before Entering the Home

Here are some tips provided by The Red Cross:

• Check the outside of your home before you enter. Look for loose power lines, broken or damaged gas lines, foundation cracks or other damage. See if porch roofs and overhangs still have all their supports.
• If there is no significant visible outside damage, then check inside.
• Carefully open the door. If it is jammed, do not force it open. It may be providing support to the structure of your home.
• Smell or sniff for gas. If you detect the odor of natural or propane gas, or hear a hissing noise, leave the property immediately and get well away from it. Call the fire department using a cellular telephone or a neighbor’s phone.
• Throughout your first day back, and beyond, check for smoke and embers throughout the home, including the attic.
• Beware of animals, such as rodents, snakes, spiders, and insects, that may have entered your home.
• Objects, such as furnishings or building parts that have been damaged, may be unstable. Be very cautious when moving near them. Avoid holding, pushing, or leaning against damaged building parts.
• Check the ceiling for signs of sagging.
• Check the floor for signs of sagging. Again, flooring such as plywood that was damaged by water from fire hoses could collapse under human weight. Avoid walking

SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties specializes in fire and water - restoration and cleanup. We understand that if you have experienced a disaster, you need someone you can call on 24/7. Call us at any time, day, or night at (814) 350-7651 or visit our Website. We are always Here to Help!

Fire Damage is No Match for SERVPRO

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage is undoubtedly one of the most destructive forms of damage homes in Cranberry can face.

Fire damage is undoubtedly one of the most destructive forms of damage homes in Cranberry can face. When this happens, you may experience both physical and emotional damage. SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties is here for our community! We have the training, experience, and equipment to restore any amount of fire damage. Here is a Before and After of a local home that was damaged by a fire. This bedroom faced heavy damage; we were ready to respond. We have what it takes to restore your Cranberry home.

For more information on how SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties can help you after a disaster or if you have any questions at all, call us at (814) 350-7651 or visit our Website! We are always Here to Help!

Fire Damage is No Match for SERVPRO of Crawford County

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage is undoubtedly one of the most destructive forms of damage Cranberry homes can face.

SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Columbiana Counties is a Fire and Water - Restoration and Cleanup company. Fire damage is undoubtedly one of the most destructive forms of damage Cranberry homes can face. When this happens, you may experience both physical and emotional damage. SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties is here for our community!

How Is a Home Restored After a Fire?

SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties restore from mitigation to reconstruction. Check out this Before and After picture of a home in Cranberry after they experienced a fire. Our team is highly trained and experienced when it comes to restoring a home after a large fire loss. This Video is a great example of how our team knowledgeably and diligently work to restore, “Like it never even happened.” With extra care we properly clean your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings and restore them back to pre-fire condition fast. You can trust our highly trained team with your belongings whenever you are in need.

SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties are fire and water damage restoration specialists. We are always Here to Help, 24/7. Give us a call at (814) 806-1987 for immediate assistance, or visit our Website!

How Can My Seneca Home Go Back to Normal After a Fire?

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs.

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency. There are 7 steps, and we will briefly cover them to help give you a better understanding on what to expect!

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes most of the water.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition.

If your home or business is in need of fire restoration, call SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties at (814) 350-7651 or visit our Website! We are always Here to Help!

The Importance of Smoke Alarms in Your Saegertown Home

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

“Every year in the United States, about 2,000 people lose their lives in residential fires.”

According to cpsc.gov, “Every year in the United States, about 2,000 people lose their lives in residential fires.” This is a tragic number that largely occurs from the lack of working smoke alarms in the home. Most of these people lost their lives from smoke inhalation rather than fire burns. To avoid this terrible disaster there are a few things you can do. Be intentional about smoke alarm placement. Which smoke alarm should you install? Make a fire escape plan!

Where Should I Place My Smoke Alarms?

Best practice for placing smoke alarms would be in the center of the ceiling or on the wall near the ceiling. Smoke alarms should also be placed on every level of this house. This allows household members to be aware that a fire has started no matter where they are located within the home. Also, do not forget that batteries should be replaced every year to ensure your safety.

What Kind of Smoke Alarm Should I Install?

Most people have never thought to ask this question before, so let us go into a little detail about types of smoke alarms. There are both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms. According to cpsc.gov, they are “...better at detecting distinctly different yet potentially fatal fires…” If you have a smoke alarm that is prone to setting off almost every time you cook, that is because it is an ionization alarm. Switch to a photoelectric smoke alarm in your kitchen to prevent it from going off while cooking.

Make a Fire Escape Plan!

“Installing working smoke alarms is an essential, but smoke alarms don’t save lives unless everyone knows how to get out of the home safely” (cpsc.gov). When making an escape plan, you should create at least two routes to escape out of each room. Once you make it outside the home, make sure to stay outside of the home instead of running back in to get something. Your life is more important than anything in there.

To learn more about how SERVPRO of Crawford and Northeast Venango Counties can help you with a fire loss, call us at (814) 806-1987 or visit our Website!

Why the A/C Unit in Your Cranberry Home is a Fire Hazard

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

It's almost time to crank that A/C, so be sure to follow these safety tips!

Warm weather is here in Cranberry! And this time, it better stick around. That means barbeques, playing outside, and soaking up the sun for you and your family. It also means you need to start cranking that A/C unit. But did you know that your central air system can actually be a fire hazard?

Your HVAC system is certainly a fire hazard, and since you’re going to be blasting the air soon, let’s review some tips to keep your A/C unit running safely:

• Tighten all the connections on your unit - a faulty gas line or electrical connection can be dangerous
• Clean your air ducts - if your unit sparks, dust can get ignited
• Let your HVAC unit breathe - move clutter and items at least 3 feet away from your unit
• Be proactive - if you smell something funny, or see something not right, get it checked!

Review those tips this spring and summer to make sure you’re safe when using your A/C unit. If you do have a fire from your unit, or any other source, you know who to call! SERVPRO of Crawford & NE Venango Counties is always Here to Help.

Call us today at (814) 350-7651 or visit our Website to see our full array of fire services. We’re faster to any size disaster with highly trained fire restoration technicians ready to help. Call us today!

Keeping Meadville Children Safe During a Fire

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

Your children can and should be just as prepared as you are to be safe during a fire.

It’s one thing for you to be prepared for a fire, it’s another for the kids in your Meadville household to be prepared for a fire as well. This doesn’t necessarily mean your children should be able to change the smoke alarm or be able to put out a fire. However, your children can and should be just as prepared as you are to be safe during a fire. There are a few steps you can take to make sure your kids are prepared, such as:

• Making sure your children can call local Meadville emergency services.
• Having a Fire Escape Route and making sure your household can locate exits from each room in your home.
• Making sure your family can contact each other.
• Having a location where your family can meet outside.
• Staying calm. If you’re calm during a fire, so will they!
• Practice your Fire Escape Plan twice a year.

Taking these steps can ensure your children’s safety when you’re together or even if a fire occurs when you’re not home. It is important to be thorough with these tips and to practice them often to be prepared as possible. If you continue to remind your family of these fire safety tips you can ensure your kids will be able to handle a fire. There aren’t many things more important than your children’s safety!

If you do have a fire, and your family is prepared and gets through it safely, there are some steps you can take after to get your Meadville house back to normal. SERVPRO of Crawford & NE Venango Counties can provide a multitude of services to get your home to pre-fire condition like it never happened. The wide range of things SERVPRO can do for your home after a fire include:

• Wall and ceiling restoration.
• Removing odor.
• Treating water damage from firefighting efforts.
• Carpet and upholstery cleaning.
• Caring for and cleaning your belongings and furniture.
• Removing smoke damage.

To get your household in Meadville back to the way you remember it, call SERVPRO of Crawford & NE Venango Counties at, (814) 350-7651 or visit our Website to take advantage of the industry leading services provided by SERVPRO today!

The Weirdest Fire Hazards in Your Meadville Home

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Recalled products like microwaves, generators, toaster ovens, electrical products, & household dryers are just a few known to have caused house fires.

Fire hazards. We know our homes are filled with them. Our mothers have warned us for centuries about the risks in the home. Fireplaces, the oven, stove, not changing your smoke detectors, propane left in the garage... and so on and so forth. But what about the weird and the unknown? Did you know that some of our most common household products are fire hazards? Allow SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties detail this puzzling list of flammable items that you may not be aware of.

• Recalled Products- A biggie. Keep an eye on consumer reports and recalls that come in letter form to your door. Recalled products like microwaves, generators, toaster ovens, and household dryers are just a few to name. You can check your products on the Consumer Product Safety Commission website here.
• Excess Sawdust- Hubby outside tinkering on a new treehouse for the kids? Sawdust does not seem like it would be hazardous…but it is highly flammable, especially when it collects in piles. Make sure to shop-vac the dust up every time it accumulates to avoid fire.
• Non-Dairy Coffee Creamer- Say what? This powder is on the list of flammable foods. Yikes! Keep it away from anything flammable to avoid an accident.
• Nail Polish Remover-Main ingredient? Acetone. Acetone does not actually catch fire itself---rather the vapors are what are considered flammable. Keep it away from outlets and open flames.
• Bathroom Chemicals- Not too much of a surprise here. The combination of bleach and ammonia is not only a fire hazard but a health hazard too.
• 9-Volt Batteries- Even if you are careful about separating the batteries for recycling---- they can touch metal in the garbage can and catch fire.
• Birds Nest on Outdoor Lighting- This is definitely one of the odder ones! There have been several instances of fires starting from the twigs, grass, and other materials used by the birds, sitting on top of a heated lightbulb, causing combustion.
• Glass or Crystal Décor- Although a rare occurrence, the heat from sunlight can cause the glass to overheat, combust, and potentially spark a fire.
• Linseed Oil- Commonly used for home projects. If left on a rag---it can spontaneously combust.

No matter how a blaze starts…the effects are serious and dangerous. Allow SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango County to take care of your home or business in the case of fire. This is the cornerstone of our business, and we are the area’s number one fire restoration company. We have the proper equipment, employees, and knowledge to care for your residence.  Follow us on Facebook for more fire tips of the trade. In the meantime---stay safe from all of us at SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango County.

Are Christmas Lights a Fire Hazard?

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Christmas lights are much more likely to cause a fire when a socket gets overloaded or if electrical wires are faulty.

If you are worried about your Christmas lights catching fire, you most likely don’t have to worry. If you find yourself wondering if the Christmas light bulbs on your tree can catch fire, they cannot. They can be left on and on without catching fire. Christmas lights are much more likely to cause a fire when a socket gets overloaded or if electrical wires are faulty. When a socket gets overloaded, that means you have too many devices plugged into that socket. To prevent a fire from starting in this way, make sure you are familiar with the amps and watts capacity. In addition, you NEVER want to plug an extension cord into another extension cord. This creates an even greater risk of causing a house fire. You hunt out faulty wiring in a couple of different ways. One thing to look for if you think you may have faulty wiring is charred or darkened outlets and switches. Another way to tell if you have faulty wiring is if your lights dim or flicker. This is not a full proof way to see if you have faulty wiring, however it is an indicator to get it checked out.

SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango counties  is dedicated to serving and keeping the members of our community safe. It is our job to provide emergency services for our friends and families. In addition, if you need restoration or cleaning services, we are nearby and ready to help. We want to do our part to keep the community safe, clean, and thriving.

Call us today at (814) 350-7651 or send us a message via Facebook!

Fire Facts – Thanksgiving Edition in Crawford County

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed. Only open the door once you’re confident the fire is completely out.

Due to the pandemic, our Thanksgiving traditions may look a little different this year. Regardless of how many people we choose to gather with, however, I’m willing to bet that the majority of us will still be cooking and preparing our favorite Turkey Day treats.

As much as we all love this holiday, we at SERVPRO of Crawford / NE Venango Counties want it to be a safe one at that. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), “More than three times as many home cooking fires occur on Thanksgiving Day as on a typical day of the year.” With all that goes into preparing the turkey, the stuffing, the mashed potatoes and gravy, and the pumpkin pies coupled with the distraction of guests continuously coming in and out, it’s no wonder that the leading cause of these fires is leaving items unattended.

So, what can you do to minimize the risk of a fire in your home? The NFPA recommends the following tips:

• Never leave the kitchen while cooking on the stovetop. Some types of cooking, especially those that involve frying or sautéing with oil, need continuous attention.
• When cooking a turkey, stay in your home and check on it regularly.
• Make use of timers to keep track of cooking times, particularly for foods that require longer cook times.
• Keep things that can catch fire like oven mitts, wooden utensils, food wrappers, and towels at least three feet away from the cooking area.
• Avoid long sleeves and hanging fabrics that could come in contact with a heat source.
• Always cook with a lid beside your pan. If you have a fire, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Do not remove the cover because the fire could start again. Let the pan cool for a long time. Never throw water or use a fire extinguisher on the fire.
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed. Only open the door once you’re confident the fire is completely out, standing to the side as you do. If you have any doubts or concerns, contact the fire department for assistance.
• Keep children at least three feet away from the stove. Kids should also stay away from hot foods and liquids, as steam or splash from these items could cause severe burns.
  

Please cook carefully this Thanksgiving. If you do experience a fire, know that SERVPRO of Crawford / NE Venango Counties has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition. Should you need us, we are just a phone call away – 814.350.7651.

Eliminate Heating Hazards This Winter

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment is responsible for an estimated average of 52,050 fires each year.

It may only be October 6^th, but the air is getting cooler and the days are getting shorter. Before we know it, there will be white, fluffy stuff on the ground that we all affectionately refer to as snow.

No matter where you live, winter brings a change in the weather. In an effort to keep our homes and workplaces cozy, many people use alternative heat sources like fireplaces, portable space heaters, and wood burning stoves.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment is responsible for an estimated average of 52,050 fires each year in 2012-2016. In 2012-2016, heating equipment fires accounted for 15% of all reported home fires, making it important to review ways to help reduce the risk of a heating-related fire.

• Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater. Have a three foot "kid-free zone" around open fires and space heaters.
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel-burning space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer's instructions.
• Test smoke alarms monthly.

If your property does suffer fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Call us today! (814) 350 7651

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Grease Fire Basics

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

If you see flames, it’s natural to panic. Take control of the situation quickly and avoid the need for extensive fire damage repair

After binge watching your latest favorite cooking show on Netflix, it is only natural to want to experiment in the kitchen. Some ingredients such as oil require more care than others. When using oil, watch the temperature, because when it overheats, it starts to boil and smoke before catching on fire.

If you see flames, it’s natural to panic. To take control of the situation quickly and avoid the need for extensive fire damage repair, below are tips on what to do and what not to do when you have a grease fire.

Do:

Turn off the heat.

Once a fire breaks out, you might be tempted to remove the smoky pan from the stove burner. Fight the urge, as you could splash burning oil on yourself or other surfaces. The droplets are like embers, potentially igniting anything they land on. To prevent the fire from spreading, leave the pot where it is and turn off the burner.

Keep an extinguisher in the kitchen.

As a precaution, you should always have a working fire extinguisher in an easy-to-reach area of the kitchen. After you turn off the stove burner, pull the pin on the extinguisher and point the nozzle at the fire’s base before pressing the trigger. The dry chemicals released will put out the flames.

Don’t:

Use water on flames.

Unlike a regular fire, trying to douse grease fires with water could cause the flames to spread. That’s because pouring water on the oil could cause it to splash to other areas. The high temperature of burning grease also causes the water to vaporize into harmful steam.

Open doors and windows until the fire is out.

To clear the smoke, you might want to open doors and windows. Don’t do this until the fire is completely out. Otherwise, the oxygen in the fresh air coming in could fuel the flames, resulting in the need for more extensive fire damage repair.

If you need fire damage repair after a kitchen mishap, electrical problem, or other incident, contact the disaster recovery specialists at SERVPRO of Crawford and NE Venango Counties. To reach us anytime, call (330) 556 4656

Or send us a message on Facebook.