Thanksgiving Fire Safety: Celebrate Safely | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

11/26/2024 (Permalink)

Stay safe this Thanksgiving with fire prevention tips from SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties. Enjoy a worry-free holiday!

Thanksgiving is a cherished time for family and friends to gather around a table filled with delicious food. However, the holiday season can also present fire hazards if safety precautions aren’t taken. At SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties, we’re dedicated to helping you enjoy a safe and festive celebration. Here are essential tips for Thanksgiving fire safety, with a focus on safe cooking practices.

Fire Safety Tips for Rural Living in Wisconsin | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

8/2/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties is ready to help you have a fire-safe summer season with these helpful tips!

Living in rural Wisconsin offers a unique lifestyle with vast landscapes and serene surroundings. However, rural areas also present specific challenges when it comes to fire safety, especially during the summer months.

Here are some essential tips to prioritize fire safety and protect your home and property in Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties.

Bonfire Safety Tips for Spring and Summer | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

6/3/2024 (Permalink)

Don't forget about fire safety! Follow these tips from SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties to ensure a fun, safe night.

As the weather warms up and the days grow longer, many of us are looking forward to spending time outdoors, and what better way to enjoy the season than with a bonfire? Whether you’re roasting marshmallows with friends or simply enjoying the crackle of the flames, a bonfire can add warmth and ambiance to any outdoor gathering.

However, it’s important to remember that with great fun comes great responsibility, especially when it comes to fire safety. Here are some essential tips to ensure that your spring and summer bonfires remain enjoyable and safe for everyone.

Choosing the Right Location

First things first, choose the right location for your bonfire. Make sure the area is clear of any overhanging branches, dry grass, or other flammable materials. Ideally, your bonfire should be at least 10 feet away from any structures, including your home, and away from bushes or shrubs.

If you’re using a fire pit, ensure it’s sturdy and made of non-flammable materials like stone or metal. Clear the area around the fire pit of any debris, and consider creating a barrier around it using rocks or bricks to prevent the fire from spreading.

Be Prepared

Before lighting your bonfire, check the weather forecast and for any burn bans. Avoid lighting a fire on windy days, as the wind can easily spread sparks and embers, increasing the risk of a fire getting out of control.

Always have a water source nearby, whether it’s a hose, a bucket of water, or a fire extinguisher. This will allow you to quickly extinguish the fire if it starts to get out of hand.

Only use seasoned firewood in your bonfire. Green or wet wood can create excess smoke and sparks, increasing the risk of a fire spreading. Never use gasoline, kerosene, or other flammable liquids to start or accelerate a fire.

Tips for Staying Toasty and Fire-Safe This Season | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn and Rusk Counties

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

Fire safety is a top priority for us at SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn and Rusk Counties this winter. Keep your home safe with these helpful tips!

We are in the heart of cozy season right now, and we are cuddled up with blankets and enjoying the cooler weather right along with you. While you dust off your fireplace and bust out your space heaters on the coldest of nights, make sure you are being safe!

The number of house fires skyrockets in the winter season, and most of them are caused by preventable accidents with space heaters, fireplace issues or other electrical troubles. Our SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn and Rusk Counties team explains some easy ways to stay safe while also staying warm this season below.

Fire-Safe Cooking Tips for the Holiday Season | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

Fire damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties on the case!

The temperature outside has dropped, the leaves have changed and fallen and the holidays are right around the corner! It’s officially fall here in the Barron County area, and we are excited about it.

While you are busy making your holiday plans and pulling out your decorations, you will most likely be diving into the kitchen to whip up your favorite holiday treats and dishes.

Delicious food is part of what makes this time of year so great, but it is also the time of year when house fires (and kitchen fires in particular) spike. We want you to stay safe while making your famous pies or while trying your hand at a new turkey hot dish, so read on to learn some fire-safe tips for your kitchen.

Avoid a Grill Fire With These Top Tips | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Have you had a barbeque gone wrong? Call SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties to get your space back in shape.

We are so grateful to be enjoying another pleasant summer in the Barron and Rice Lake community. The warm, sunny days can make anyone feel better after the crazy winter we had! Celebrating the season with a classic Midwestern BBQ is one of the best parts about summer time.

Unfortunately, the summer season is also the time of year when grill fires are at their peak. This can make your family get together memorable for a much different reason. Our SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties team wants you to avoid a grill fire at all costs, so read on to learn some great ways to stay safe and fire-free.

Safety Tips for Your Fall Bonfires | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Bonfire season is upon us! SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.

This time of year is always welcome after a hot and humid summer. Fall is here, and that means pumpkin spice, football Sundays and enjoying more time in the crisp outdoor air.

One way to enjoy the changing seasons is by curling up next to your bonfire in the backyard. While that is certainly a cozy way to relax, you always run the risk of starting an out-of-control fire whenever flame is present outside.

Our SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties team explains some easy fire safety tips to follow this fall so that you and your family can enjoy the crackling flames without the risk of starting a large blaze.

Take the Fear Out of Fire Safety | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

6/10/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties is here for you and your family if you experience a fire in your home or business.

If you have little kids in your home, you know how rewarding it can be to raise them up and teach them about the world. But you also know how much work it is to get it right!

While you are busy doing your best to teach them about the world and all that comes with it, it can be hard to do so without overwhelming them or scaring your little ones with the risks of daily life.

Understanding fire and fire safety practices are incredibly important for every member of your house. Whether you are 65 or 5, knowing where to go in an emergency and how to prevent a fire is crucial.

In order to increase your child’s chances of responding quickly and accurately during an emergency, you should introduce fire-safe concepts in a relaxed and encouraging environment.

<h3fire-dangers">Introducing Fire Dangers

For kids, every experience and concept is new and exciting! It can be hard to explain the consequences of fire to a little one who doesn’t really even know what fire is. In order to do this, have a conversation about the different places around your home that can produce flame, like your stove, bonfire or candles. Discuss how fire starts and what can catch on fire throughout your home.

You should also make sure to teach your children that matches and lighters are never to be played with and should only be a tool for the adults in the household. A devastating house fire can start with a curious child and a single match.

<h3your-local-fire-department">Meet Your Local Fire Department

While many kids say they want to be a police officer or firefighter when they grow up, they can easily become intimidated when an authority figure is dressed in uniform in front of them. Try to expose your child to images of these friendly heroes often through books, TV or real-life experiences. Take advantage of any open houses or meet-and-greet events so your kids can form positive experiences with these men and women.

This can help reinforce the idea that these people are only here to help in an emergency situation. Explain to them what a firefighter’s job duties are and to trust these heroes to help get you to safety. You should also encourage your children to be comfortable shouting their names or for help. Practice being as loud as you can together as you army crawl to safety!

<h3an-exit-strategy">Creating an Exit Strategy

If you haven’t created your emergency exit plan yet, you should do so right away. You can even make it a game if your children are sensitive or anxious about it! Encourage them to find the fastest ways out of every room in your home and make a map together with their findings.

In addition, you should teach your children how to open the windows in your home for a true emergency situation. This information can save their lives, but it is also dangerous knowledge for a curious child. Teach them that using the windows is only a last resort and should never be played with.

Finally, choose your outdoor meeting location together. Once you have your plan, practice it as a family at least twice a year, and ensure your children know how to call 911 from a cellphone or neighbor’s phone.

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

Arm Your Employees With Fire Safety Training | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

3/28/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with the aftermath of a commercial fire? SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties is your local restoration expert.

Dealing with an emergency at work is never fun, even if the situation is relatively minor. It can be even more troublesome if your staff doesn’t understand how to react to an emergency!

When it comes to fires in your business or commercial property, it is crucial that your employees understand what is expected and knows how to keep themselves safe.

Teaching basic fire safety to all of your employees is a great way to give them the tools they need to act quickly! Once you start training, you might even be surprised at how many people actually don’t know how to operate a fire extinguisher.

By taking the time to teach them about the differences between fire extinguishers and their use, you can greatly increase the chances of a situation being quickly handled by your team.

Lean on SERVPRO After a House Fire | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

2/9/2023 (Permalink)

For quick repairs following a fire, get in touch with our team at SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties.

Being a homeowner has many perks, but experiencing home damage is not one of them. While any type of disaster can be troublesome to deal with, experiencing a house fire can be life-altering. Fire can grow quickly and can consume entire rooms in minutes, which makes this type of home disaster particularly catastrophic.

Recovering from a house fire can be overwhelming and scary, but don’t forget about your SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties team! We have the personnel and expertise available to you that will help you completely overcome your home damage.

Read on to learn more about our response to fire damage and how we can help return your home to its pre-fire state quickly.

Heat Your Home Safely This Winter | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

1/24/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties if you experience any smoke, soot or fire damage.

The chill of the winter season has set in, so chances are you have cranked on your central heating or stocked up wood for your fireplace to prepare for the dip in temperature. While these tasks can seem easy to do, without the proper preparations, you could wind up being vulnerable to house fires!

We want you to stay warm and toasty all winter, so our team has laid out tips about how to safely heat your home all season long below.

The Hazards of Holiday Decorations | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

11/7/2022 (Permalink)

Have smoke or fire damage in your house? Contact us today to get cleaned up fast.

‘Tis the season for holiday gatherings, fresh cookies and pie, and family traditions! All of this and more are combined to make this time of year wonderful for so many reasons.

While this season may be your favorite, though, it also means an uptick in the amount of house fires that occur in the United States.

Minimizing the Risk of Backyard Fires | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn and Rusk Counties

7/26/2022 (Permalink)

If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties.

When you think of summertime in Wisconsin, barbecues, bonfires and quality family time probably come to mind. There is something special about spending time around a bonfire or grilling your favorite food together.

We use fire to accomplish all kinds of things in the summertime. We light bonfires, grill and burn yard debris all the time. Even when we are being responsible with fire, though, anytime there is flame, there is an inherent risk of danger.

The National Park Service believes that the majority of wildfires are started by humans.

Even with this knowledge, you should still be able to enjoy a campfire in the woods at your cabin or a barbecue with burgers and brats. As long as you are adopting some safe fire practices, you can continue with the fun while reducing your risk of fire.

You Can Help Prevent Home Fires | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

6/10/2022 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties East is here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration needs.

In only the first few months of 2022, the American Red Cross has responded to more than 20,000 house fires. That number is not even the full extensive list of house fires that have happened in the United States so far this year.

Having a fully functioning smoke detector in your home is still the most reliable way to prevent total fire devastation and death, but there are a variety of things you can do in your daily life to prevent home fires from even starting in the first place.

Smoke Detector and Fire Alarm Maintenance

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

Common preventive maintenance for fire alarms and smoke detectors is simple and best when done on a regular schedule. Humidity, corrosion, changes in voltage and temperature can cause problems with this equipment and being tested on a regular basis will allow these issues to be addressed before they cause problems.

One of the most costly and devastating events for a company or organization is a fire. According to Fireward, more than 22,000 non-dwelling building fires occurred over the course of two years. About 3,700 of those occurred because an alarm failed to sound.

It is very important to establish a fire alarm and smoke detector testing schedule. Here are a few tips:

1. Schedule tests. Schedule tests of smoke detectors and fire alarms at least once a month.
2. Clean alarms. Alarms should be cleaned at least quarterly to prevent dirt and dust build-up.
3. Follow up. Ensure that fire departments are properly receiving notifications when fire alarms sound.
4. Double Check. Work with a professional to ensure sensors and wiring are all functioning correctly once a year.

As you conduct regular tests of your smoke detectors and fire alarms, you probably won’t encounter major issues. It’s easy to get complacent about regular testing when you don’t have any issues but this small investment in preventive maintenance can save you from major losses that a fire can cause down the road.

If, despite this tips, you do experience a fire, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties at 715-643-7171, We will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Requires 4 Components—Here’s What They Are | SERVPRO® of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business has any damage, SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties is ready around the clock to help you recover.

Let’s take a look back to your golden years and see if you can remember what a tetrahedron is? Since your golden years were a few years ago, it might be tough to remember.

So let us help you out…a tetrahedron is another name for a pyramid—a three-dimensional, triangular shape with four equal sides.

You may be really curious as to how this pertains to fire and fire safety! Well, a fire needs four components, which are known as the fire tetrahedron. Without these elements working together, a fire won’t start or survive.

The 4 Things a Fire Needs to Live

Fuel—something to ignite. This is a pretty common thing, but the type of fuel can be organic or inorganic material. Things like wood and plastic can be the perfect fuel source for fire.

Heat—enough to cause combustion. Everything has a combustion point where it will either ignite or melt. The amount of heat necessary can vary for every type of substance, but it will eventually happen.

Oxygen. Without oxygen, just like most everything else, a fire won’t survive long. Oxygen helps produce an expanding series of chemical reactions and will produce things like smoke and carbon monoxide in the process.

Chemical Chain Reaction. The continual cycle and feeding of heat, fuel and oxygen combine to produce a chain reaction. And as long as this chain reaction isn’t disturbed, the fire will continue to burn.

The 4 Ways to Stop a Fire

Cool it. While this may be the first thing most people think of, it’s still an important step that must be recognized. Whether you’re using buckets, hoses or anything else, the point is to cool the fuel to a point that combustion is no longer possible. You will want to cool the heat to a thermal balance so that the heat generated can’t compete with the rate that heat is lost.

Smother it. If you can take the oxygen out of a fire, then it won’t live. If you smother a fire, you have deprive it from one necessity that it really needs, oxygen. This is the principle behind the “stop, drop and roll” practice.

Starve it. As long as a fire has adequate fuel such as grass, wood or other materials, it will continue to grow and burn. You can stop a fire by removing its fuel source while it’s still trying to consume it.

Interrupt the chain reaction. Certain chemical agents can help chemically disrupt a fire. The chemical halon is very effective, but it has an elevated potential for ozone depletion. Because of this, it can become an environmental threat, which has now caused production to be stopped.

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.

Safe Practices for Space Heaters

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

While today’s space heaters have come a long way in safety measures from the old electric heaters with open heating elements, there are still safety risks involved with them. Today’s space heaters, whether they are electric, radiant or convection style heating, have much better insulation around the heating coils and smaller grates to keep fingers and items away from the heating element also.  Many also have automatic shut offs that cut the power when the device reaches a certain temperature, along with a sensor to detect blocked air passages. Some also have tip-over switches that shut the heater off if it’s not flat on the ground.

Even with all the safety features of modern space heaters, there is always risk involved in using them. Here are some tips to stay safe, cozy and warm with your space heater:

• Always keep the space heater on the floor. It is also best to place it on the smoothest, flattest surface possible.
• Keep the space heater away from water. This one’s pretty obvious. Electricity and water don’t mix well.
• Avoid flammable objects. Follow the three-foot rule and avoid placing the heater within three feet of anything flammable, including curtains, papers, furniture, pillows, and bedding.
• Never leave the space heater unattended. This includes not leaving the heater on while you sleep.
• Plug the space heater directly into a wall outlet. Added layers of electrical connection (surge protectors, extension cords, plug timers) can overload the circuit or create additional resistance that allows heat to build up which could result in a fire or internal electrical damage.

If you do experience a fire due to a space heater, give SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties a call at 715-643-7171. We can make it “Like it never even happened.”

Check Your Smoke Alarms

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house. Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation.

Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance. For more on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties.

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm "chirps," the battery is low and should be replaced right away.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

Ultrasonic Cleaning Fire Damaged Contents

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties, we have many different techniques for cleaning fire damaged contents. The technique that we use will depend on the level of damage and the item and material being cleaned. One of the techniques we use is ultrasonic cleaning. Ultrasonic cleaning is a process of cleaning an object using ultrasonic sound waves while the object is submerged in water and detergents to remove soils and particles. Ultrasonic sounds waves are very high frequency, typically from 20–40 kHz.

At SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties, we have a room dedicated specifically to ultrasonic cleaning.

1. To begin the process of ultrasonic cleaning, the item to be cleaned is lightly sprayed with a pre-cleaning agent.
2. It is then immersed in the pre-rinse tank that contains 140 degree water and a low level of cleaning agent. This tank has agitators to move the water and cleaning agent around and start loosening that tough, sooty grime from the fire.
3. After its time in the pre-rinse tank, the item is moved to the ultrasonic tank. The ultrasonic tank contains 140 degree water and a higher degree of cleaning agents. The item is immersed again while high-frequency sound waves (ultrasonic) produce microscopic jet streams to agitate and scrub the item.
4. After the ultrasonic tank, the item will be moved to the rinse tank where it is immersed in clean, deionized water to remove any leftover cleaning agent.

At the end of this process, the item will look “Like it never even happened.”

For all of your fire, smoke or soot damage needs, call SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties! 715-643-7171

Puff Backs: What Are They and How to Prevent Them

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

Puffbacks are not a pleasant situation for a home owner to deal with! They can make an incredible mess and are so difficult for someone without proper training to clean. Luckily, your friendly, knowledgeable local SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties knows exactly what to do!

Puffbacks are caused when a burner doesn’t ignite right away which causes fumes to build up in the furnace. These fumes will lead to an explosion within the burner chamber, which will vaporize and send soot flying throughout your home. Your home will have soot in every crook and cranny and on every wall, ceiling and piece of furniture. Puffbacks are most common in oil burning furnaces because oil doesn’t dissipate as easily. Oil puffbacks are also more damaging because oil creates more soot than gas and has a stickier texture.

Preventing puffbacks is not only important for your and your home’s wellbeing, but also for your wallet! Puffbacks are not always covered by insurance. To prevent a puffback, you should have your heating system serviced regularly by a professional. They will remove soot build up that naturally occurs during heating season, change your oil spray nozzle if needed and check that heating components are working properly.

Some warning signs of a puffback include oil leaks, loud startup of your furnace, rumbling or vibrating after shutoff, sooty operation and strange odors. It is very important to keep an eye out for any of these warning signs and address any problems immediately when you notice them!

By contacting SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties if you experience a puffback, you will be ensuring that your home will be properly cleaned and deodorized. We will make sure that everything from your carpets to your light fixtures are soot free and odor free. SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties can also help you find reputable, local contractors to repair your heating system.

Don’t hesitate! Call us today! 715-643-7171

Backyard Summer Fun Tips

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

In northern Wisconsin summertime means catching up with family at backyard cookouts and spending warm summer nights telling stories around a bonfire. When combined with hot, dry weather, a single flame can rapidly advance to a devastating blaze. Here are some helpful tips to prevent your backyard going down in flames.

1.Check your clothing

Wear non-flammable clothing if possible, and never go barefoot when grilling or walking around a fire.

2.Location

Whether it's a grill, bonfire, citronella candles, or tiki torches—plan where you are going to set up an open flame. If children are present, candles should be out of reach. Make sure to check with your local DNR to make sure it is safe to have a fire. Ground that is too dry can lite up with just a single spark.

3.Keep everyone aware

Everyone is responsible for fire safety. You can avoid incidents through communication and awareness. Make sure everyone is aware of any open or recently snuffed flames that may still be hot to the touch. Exercise extra caution when children and pets are present. Always be alert and never leave a fire unattended.

4.Be ready to take-action

No one knows when an accident is going to happen, but when it does, having the right tools to react can be a lifesaver. In any case of an open flame, always keep a fire extinguisher nearby, so others are aware of its location. If you're grilling or cooking over a fire, never try to extinguish it with water. Remember to keep baking soda nearby in case of a grease fire.

Smoke alarms for the hearing impaired

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives in the events of a fire, but if you or a loved on are deaf or hearing impaired it is difficult to hear the high pitch of a smoke alarm. The NFPA has came up with a type of alarm just for the deaf. Here is a little bit of information about the.

• Smoke alarms are available for people who are deaf (those with profound hearing loss). These alarms use strobe lights to wake the person. Vibration notification appliances, such as pillow or bed shakers, are required and are currently activated by the sound of a smoke alarm.
• As people age, their ability to hear high-pitched sounds decreases. Research from NFPA’s Research Foundation showed that older adults are unlikely to respond to alarms with strobe lights.
• Older adults or other people who are hard of hearing (those with mild to severe hearing loss) can use a device that emits a mixed, low-pitched sound. In its current form, this device is activated by the sound of a traditional smoke alarm.
• Always choose equipment that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• Make sure everyone in your home understands and reacts to the signal (light, vibration, or sound) used in their situation.
• All smoke alarms should be tested at least monthly. Replace smoke alarms and equipment for people who are deaf or hard or hearing according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

Space heater safety

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

With all these subzero temps we have been having here in this frozen tundra, furnaces are having a really hard time keeping up. We all love to stay all nice a toasty, so we get out our trusty space heaters. We get all warm and forget about them and walk away. That can cause so huge problems! Space heaters are very unbalanced and tip over very easy, and when they tip over, they do not shut off. They end up over heating and can cause a devastating fire. There are a few things we all can do to prevent them for causing a fire.

• Have three feet of space from anything that can start on fire.
• Never leave a space heater on when you leave a room or go to bed.
• Only plug in one heater to an outlet to prevent overloading the outlet
• Always test you smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

Furnace Maintenance Can Save You More Then You Know

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

While it can be easy to forget about the furnace, it is just as easy to keep it well maintained. Below are a few tips to enjoy a warm home when the temperature outside drop to subzero.

 Inspect air filters once a month. Dirty filters can limit how it functions, as well as provide fuel for a potential fire. It is best to replace them at least four times a year, but more frequently may be necessary depending on the situation.
 Ensure that CO detectors are working. A leak can create a serious safety hazard.
 Let it breathe. Keep registers clear and open. Do not set furniture over them. That can impact the system’s efficiency.
 Before it’s time for the cold season to begin, verify that the pilot light burns a blue color. If it doesn’t come on or is a different color, have it professionally inspected.
 The area around the furnace should be clear of furniture and other items. This makes it easier to access and limits the potential for having to call for fire cleaning help.

Professional Help
To maximize your system, it is a good idea to have an annual inspection. HVAC professionals will do a thorough inspection, as well as needed maintenance, to ensure it is working at its best. Doing so reduces the chances of breakdowns and the need for a fire and smoke specialist if a damaged unit causes a fire.
When cold weather hits, peace of mind that you will stay warm is worth a little time and money spent maintaining the system instead of spending it on fire cleaning services.

Christmas tree fires

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Holiday season is in full swing! I don't think there is anyone more happy than us at SERVPRO of Barron Dunn and Rusk Counties. We love getting together and celebrating. But with holidays and everyone decorating for them comes one of the biggest fire hazards of them all..... Real Christmas trees. Oh they are so beautiful and smell absolutely amazing!! They need a lot of tender care, but we at SERVPRO are here to give you some helpful tips and some useful facts about Christmas trees.

Between 2013 and 2017; 160 home fires were reported by the National Fire Protection Association and 44% were fueled by electrical problems. Over 10 million dollars in property damage was caused.

• 25 percent of Christmas tree fires are caused from and alternate heat source such as a candle to close to the tree.
• Not watering your tree in the morning and before you go to bed will cause it to die and dry out causing it to go up in flames way faster.
• Always unplug your tree when you are not home or before you go to bed. We all love the way the tree lights up a room at night but not when the flames area the light... 85 percent of Christmas tree fires happen when no one is home.

Leaving your tree lit and unattended, the lights heat up and cause the dry needles to ignite. It only takes between seven to ten minutes for a whole tree to burn and catch the rest of your home or business to go up in flames. We at SERVPRO encourage you water your tree twice a day and unplug the lights when unattended.

Ole Smoky

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO our technicians are highly trained in fire cleanup. Our ultimate goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."

Smoke is very unpredictable. SERVPRO technicians are trained to know the different types of smoke and their behaviors. Here are some helpful things to know about smoke

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and levels of the structure
• Smoke goes into holes of plumbing systems to travel from floor to floor

Different types of smoke

• Wet smoke (plastic/rubber) low heat. Sneaky, sticky, and smeary. Hard to clean up
• Dry smoke (paper/wood) fast burning, high heat. Heat and smoke rise
• Protein fire residue (evaporation of materials) invisible. Discolors paint and varnish. Extreme odor
• Fuel oil soot (puff back) high staining and high odor
• Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue, while SERVPRO is ready and willing to be at the scene. 

Did you know tips about fires from SERVPRO

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

A couple "Did you knows" about fire safety and cleanup!

Did you know you should only use a fire extinguisher if the fire is confined to a small area and is not growing, and only after everyone has exited the building.  This will help with safety for you and others while making sure the fire isn't between you and the exit.

Did you know that SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties technicians are trained on how to remove odors that take over your home or business after a fire has occurred?  We use industrial air scrubbers and more to make your home smell the same or better than it did pre fire loss.  Give us a call today to see how we can serve you!

Did you know SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties is a leader in our area and has all trained and certified staff and technicians to better serve you with confidence.  Give us a call at 715-643-7171.

Electrical Fire

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

This was a electrical malfunction in a bathroom causing a fire and smoke damage.

Electrical malfunctions are a major cause of fires in the home or business.  When improper or old wiring goes bad it can be a disaster.  Shown here in a lower bathroom, the ceiling fan light has caused some damage as it started a fire.  The damage luckily wasn't a full fire throughout the home but the smoke damage is what is unseen in four levels of this home.  Smoke damage can be almost as big of a disaster as the fire itself as it touches just about everything, with the soot and smoke smell.  At SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties we have all the proper equipment and trained and certified production technicians that can handle this situation for you!  Give us a call at 715-643-7171 if you need professional help!

When to use a fires extinguisher

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

A fire is a traumatic time, whether big or small, ones senses are to grab everyone and get out. Which is the best thing to do depending on the size of the fire, but when in the heat of the moment(no pun intended) do you know that using this small device of fire extinguisher can help save your home.  Here are a few tips of when to use it:

1- The outside of the extinguisher is clean, and all parts are operable and not damaged or restricted.

2- You have identified an escape, and the fire is not between you and the route.

3- You have alerted other occupants, and someone has called the fire department

4- You are safe from the toxic smoke produced by the fire.

5- The fire is contained to a single object, such as a wastebasket.

Give us a call at SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties if you find yourself with a fire loss at 715-643-7171.

Fire Evacuation Tips

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

We at SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties care about your safety first.  Have you thought about if a fire does happen in your home, do you have a plan, a plan that will evacuate you and your love ones in the home.  Here are a few safety fire evacuation tips.  You may have heard of R.A.C.E. used to describe these tips.

R-Rescue those who cannot get out by themselves and get everyone to a safe place, 

A-Alarm or alert someone to get help, such as telling someone to contact the fire department.

C-Confine the fire by closing doors on the way out of the building to stop the fire from spreading.

E-Extinguish the fire if possible using a fire extinguisher, if no one is able to extinguish the fire or the fire is too big, wait for help in a safe place.

Make sure everyone is aware of a route to use and a place to meet when everyone is out so you know if they have escaped.

SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties wants its surrounding community to be safe, please know we are always here for the time of need with compassionate staff.

Grimy Soot from a puffback in Cumberland?

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

Although a fire is far more damaging, a puffback, which is a messy furnace malfunction can cause a mess throughout an entire home also.  It happens in furnaces that are oil burning and it sends soot throughout your home or business.  It can happen all at once, covering an interior in grimy soot, or a puffback can leak soot particles more gradually.  Equipped with the training, tools, and experience to quickly and efficiently clean and bring back your home or business to its preloss condition SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties has it all!   Give us a call at 715-643-7171 for all your cleaning and restoration needs!  We are available 24/7 for Emergencies as we have on-call technician's that are highly trained and certified meet them here!

Immersion cleaning in a house fire

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Its only a teddy bear to someone else but to us we understand this item could be irreplaceable

In a house fire loss, we will come to your home and go through the items with you determining whether this is a complete loss or worth saving to you. We understand that in these desperate times some items that may not carry much cash value can be something worth more than just cash, it can carry an emotional attachment. And at SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties our job is to be there for you our customer in the most time of need. We have many systems we use for cleaning these items from your home, but featuring today is our immersion cleaner.

Immersion Cleaning is a process that we can clean items of a fire loss or any cleaning process by dipping the contents items into a bath of cleaning product. It is an ultrasonic tank filled with water and cleaning solution and the high frequency sound waves create high temperatures and microscopic jet streams of fluid to agitate and scrub contents. We use different solutions for all ranges of different materials.

Re-construction after fire damage in the Rice Lake area

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

Our Crew replacing windows and door after this home was damaged by a fire

Did you know that when a disaster strikes whether it is a Fire, Storm, or Water Damage we can go beyond the recovery of a loss from these?

Once these disasters are taken care of wouldn't you rather depend on one company to take care of it all?  That is why we also offer re-construction services.  This service will put our customer at ease after already trying to recover from a loss to their home or business by having us take care of your disaster big or small.

A fire can be very devastating but making sure it is taken care of from beginning to end is what we pride ourselves on.  Whether it is smoke, soot or a complete loss make sure you know who to call.  SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties will be available 24/7 for emergency services, and will be able to answer those difficult questions in how to handle the property and its cleanup.

Give us a call at 715-643-7171 to see how we can help in your home or business.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup in Boyceville

4/4/2019 (Permalink)

Our crew members at SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties responded to a fire that started in this chimney shown here at this home.  The fire did cause damage to the outside of this home along with some damage on the inside but the worse was the smoke and soot damage.  Smoke and soot can be a pesky thing to get rid of, but at SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, & Rusk Counties we have trained and certified technicians that know how to rid your home of the smoke smell and clean properly of the soot.  There are many different kinds of smoke and soot listed here:

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.

Give us a call at 715-643-7171 for assistance.

Fire Restoration in Rice Lake

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties our fire restorataion is detailed process from the moment you call to the final day we leave your home we will be there for you.  Here is a sampling of events that could take place at a fire loss.

Pretesting- we will start the cleaning and restoration process by pretesting to determine which processes to utilize and allow the customer to preview the results.

Contents claim inventory service- by utilizing Contents Claim Inventory Service(CCIS) technology, we can generate comprehensive room-by-room inventories.  Contents are then categorized by salvageable or non-salvageable and questionable, allowing for easier contents settlement.

Cleaning and Restoration- all restorable structure and contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition in most cases.  We can even provide emergency cleaning of contents the customer will need immediately.

Move Outs- If relocation is necessary due to extensive damage, we are trained to properly move out and control the inventor contents throughout the cleaning, restoration and deodorization.

Please give SERPVRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties a call at 715-643-7171.

Fire in your home? What can you do?

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

The fire fighters have left your home, luckily it wasn't a massive fire but your home is covered in soot and has much smoke damage.  What should you do or don't do until help of SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties arrives:

-Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring.

-Place clean towels or old linens on rugs or high traffic areas and upholstery.

-Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces

-Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery

-Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet

-Do not clean any electrical equipment

-Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor

If you find yourself in a fire damaged home let the trained professionals handle the cleaning properly for you.  Give us a call at 715-643-7171.

Check your smoke alarms

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house. Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation.

Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance. For more on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties.

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm "chirps," the battery is low and should be replaced right away.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

Thanksgiving Day Safety Tips

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know that Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas, and Christmas Eve?  We want you to enjoy these days with your loved ones, so here are a few safety tips for when you are cooking that scrumptious meal.

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids or toys.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

Be especially aware when Deep Frying a turkey, people tend to put too much oil in which causes overflow and spreads to the open flame causing a mass fireball.  Also putting in a frozen or very wet bird can cause major problems which they call B.L.E.V.E which stands for Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion.

• Always use fryer outside away from any structure
• Keep oil under 350 degrees, the hotter the oil the more combustible it is
• Don’t overfill the pot with oil
• Thoroughly defrost turkey(24 hours for every 10 pounds the turkey weighs)
• Turn off flame before putting turkey in
• Keep grease fire approved extinguisher on hand
• Lower turkey into pot slowly

If by unfortunate event you have a emergency this Holiday Season please know your SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even on Holidays.  Contact us if need be at (715)643-7171 and we will be there to help.  Happy Holidays!

Re-Construction Services in Dunn County

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

we offer re-construction services after any disaster!

Did you know that when a disaster strikes whether it is a Fire, Storm, or Water Damage we can go beyond the recovery of a loss from these?

Once these disasters are taken care of wouldn't you rather depend on one company to take care of it all?  That is why we also offer re-construction services.  This service will put our customer at ease after already trying to recover from a loss to their home or business by having us take care of your disaster big or small.

A fire can be very devastating but making sure it is taken care of from beginning to end is what we pride ourselves on.  Whether it is smoke, soot or a complete loss make sure you know who to call.  SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties will be available 24/7 for emergency services, and will be able to answer those difficult questions in how to handle the property and its cleanup.

Give us a call at 715-643-7171 to see how we can help in your home or business.

Stress Free Professionals

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

Let us handle a stressful situation for you!

Did you know April is National Stress Awareness Month?  Let us at SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties help take away some of that stress if you fall to a disaster of any size.

Our restoration team specializes in Fire & Water Cleanup and Restoration, along with Mold Remediation.   

Why call us first?  Because we will make sure your cleanup is stress-free from beginning to end, with a smooth easy process from our trained professionals.  They will communicate the entire job from start to finish so you understand, and can deal with your insurance carrier as well to assure you are getting the best job done for you. 

Give us a call at 715-643-7171 and we will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Tips If you have a Fire in your Home

2/1/2018 (Permalink)

If you have a fire in your home we understand you won’t be out there on the web looking for tips, but maybe by reading these ahead of time some of these will stick in your head if you do fall into this unfortunate position.

At SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties we have to goal in mind to make it “Like it never even happened” in your home. Whether it smoked or smoldered we will make sure our professionally trained crew will be there for you.

Here are a few Do’s and Don’ts if you have fire and smoke damage.

DO

• Limit movement of people in the structure to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely, and prop doors open to prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances. Then protect with a light coat of lubricant.
• Pour RV antifreeze into sinks, toilet bowl, holding tanks, and tubs if heat is off during freezing season.
• Gently wash both side of leaves and indoor plants.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until checked by trained professional.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON’T

• DON’T attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties Professional.
• DON’T attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties.
• DON’T attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service person.
• DON’T consume any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. They could be contaminated.
• DON’T turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock.
• DON’T send garments to the dry cleaner, Improper cleaning may set the smoke odor.

Let SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties help you out by contacting us at 715-643-7171.

SERVPRO Understands the Trauma of Fire Disasters

2/1/2018 (Permalink)

Every 18 seconds a fire occurs in the U.S. but only one matters to you! We are here to make it “Like it never even happened.”

We at SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties have service response guidelines to better serve you in your disaster.

1-    Within 1 hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties will contact you to arrange for service

4-    Within 4 hours of loss notification, our SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties will be on-site to start mitigation (if necessary)

8-    Within 8 hours business hours, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the adjuster by our SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties Professional

Give us a call at 715-643-7171 if you fall to this situation we will be faster to your fire disaster.

Check your Smoke Alarms!

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house. Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation.

Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance. For more on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties.

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm "chirps," the battery is low and should be replaced right away.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

Avoid Holiday Hazards

12/5/2017 (Permalink)

Candles, pretty lights and decorations are just a few of the items that add to the charm and cheer of the holiday season - however, if they are not used carefully your holidays may go from festive to frightening very quickly.

Review the following simple safety tips, provided by the National Fire Protection Association, to greatly reduce the fire risk in your home or business this holiday season.

• Two out of five home decoration fires are started by candles. Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that burns.
• Use sturdy candle holders that are not likely to tip over and place candles on clear, uncluttered surfaces. Consider using flameless candles instead of real candles.
• Make sure your tree and decorations are at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, candles or heat vents.
• Make sure you have the correct type of lights for your desired decor. Some lights are designed for only indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Carefully inspect light strands before placing them. Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of light sets.
• Remember to turn off outside decorative lights and Christmas tree lights before leaving or going to bed.
• Get rid of your tree after Christmas or when it is dry. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home. Check with your local community to find a recycling program.
• Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

Thanksgiving Day Safety Tips

11/18/2017 (Permalink)

Follow these Safety Tips so this doesn't happen to you on your Thanksgiving Day Celebrations.

Did you know that Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas, and Christmas Eve?  We want you to enjoy these days with your loved ones, so here are a few safety tips for when you are cooking that scrumptious meal.

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids or toys.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

Be especially aware when Deep Frying a turkey, people tend to put too much oil in which causes overflow and spreads to the open flame causing a mass fireball.  Also putting in a frozen or very wet bird can cause major problems which they call B.L.E.V.E which stands for Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion.

• Always use fryer outside away from any structure
• Keep oil under 350 degrees, the hotter the oil the more combustible it is
• Don’t overfill the pot with oil
• Thoroughly defrost turkey(24 hours for every 10 pounds the turkey weighs)
• Turn off flame before putting turkey in
• Keep grease fire approved extinguisher on hand
• Lower turkey into pot slowly

If by unfortunate event you have a emergency this Holiday Season please know your SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even on Holidays.  Contact us if need be at (715)643-7171 and we will be there to help.  Happy Holidays!

Barron, Dunn and Rusk Counties Smoke and Soot Cleanup

10/17/2017 (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 Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties 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 – 715-643-7171

Smoke Alarms Save Lives

1/29/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house. Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation.

Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance. For more on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties.

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm "chirps," the battery is low and should be replaced right away.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

Avoid Holiday Hazards

12/14/2015 (Permalink)

Candles, pretty lights and decorations are just a few of the items that add to the charm and cheer of the holiday season - however, if they are not used carefully your holidays may go from festive to frightening very quickly.

Review the following simple safety tips, provided by the National Fire Protection Association, to greatly reduce the fire risk in your home or business this holiday season.

• Two out of five home decoration fires are started by candles. Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that burns.
• Use sturdy candle holders that are not likely to tip over and place candles on clear, uncluttered surfaces. Consider using flameless candles instead of real candles.
• Make sure your tree and decorations are at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, candles or heat vents.
• Make sure you have the correct type of lights for your desired decor. Some lights are designed for only indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Carefully inspect light strands before placing them. Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of light sets.
• Remember to turn off outside decorative lights and Christmas tree lights before leaving or going to bed.
• Get rid of your tree after Christmas or when it is dry. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home. Check with your local community to find a recycling program.
• Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties wishes you a safe and happy holiday season!

The Different Types of Smoke

10/29/2015 (Permalink)

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 Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties professional will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred.  The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during the pretesting.

Additional Information:

Wet Smoke (Plastic and Rubber) - Has low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary.  Smoke webs are moe 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 fire)  Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace Puff Backs) While "puff backs" can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties professionals can, in most cases restore contents and structure quickly.

Other Types (Tear Gas, fire extinguisher residue)  Special Loss situations require special care.

SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties Professionals are trained to handle even the toughest losses.  If your home or business sustains fire or smoke damage, contact us to help make it "Like it never even happened."