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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts

Keep Your House Warm and Fire-Safe | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

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

The best time of the year is when we can spend time playing in the snow and then cuddled up under a blanket with a warm fire at the end of the day. The cozy season is one of the best seasons.

It may be one of the best seasons, but it is also the time of year that house fires rise dramatically. Fireplaces, space heaters and other heating items put our home at risk when they are not used safely.

Addressing Your Fireplace

Nothing quite compares to how a fire can make you feel, especially at the end of a long day. Fireplaces can be dangerous when they are not properly cared for, though.

Wood-burning fireplaces should be cleared of ash and debris after each use. Chimneys should be cleaned to eliminate potential creosote buildup, and you should have them professionally inspected at least once a year.

Never put flammable materials near your fireplace, which might mean you need to reconsider what you are displaying on your mantle. If your fireplace is electric or gas, keep a close eye on the connecting points to ensure everything stays tight. Dust regularly around your fireplace, and make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Space Heater Safety

Do you use space heaters to add a little extra warmth to some of your rooms? Space heaters are a common source of house fires, responsible for nearly 1,700 each year.

Always put your space heater on a solid surface, and ensure it is level. Your heater should run in an open space with at least a three-foot radius around it. Never put it too close to the couch, curtains or any other flammable materials.

Check your cords before you plug in a heater, and don’t use one that is frayed or otherwise broken down. Never plug a space heater into an extension cord or power strip, but always directly into the wall. Don’t run your space heater unattended, which means cutting it off when you go to bed for the night.

Suggested Safety Features for Your Space Heater

While most space heaters are going to come with some safety features, there are a few specific things you should look for when you plan to use one in your home. If you already have space heaters and they are more than five years old, it is a good idea to invest in some new ones.

Always purchase from a manufacturer that is certified and considered reliable. Space heaters should go through some pretty strict testing before they are sold, so do some research into how yours were checked. Only use space heaters that have automatic shut-off features that kick on when the unit has been running for a while or it has been knocked over.

Make sure the cord on your unit is at least six feet long and feels well-made. Measure ahead of making a purchase to ensure the cord length will be enough to run your unit safely.

With some simple safety steps you can keep your home warm and cozy. If you do experience an issue, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls for fast repairs so you can get back to enjoying the coziest season of the year.

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

Have the Safest Holiday Season | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

pan on kitchen counter in residence ablaze while unattended Fire damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Sioux Falls on the case!

It’s the most wonderful time of year! No matter how you feel about the holidays and when you celebrate, there is no denying that there are some pretty good foods that come along with the season. If you are the favorite family cook, a little fire safety can go a long way in keeping your home safe.

The number of house fires always go up during the holiday season, and an alarming number of them start in the kitchen. That doesn’t mean skipping the family recipes and ordering takeout, though; instead, with some proactive steps in place you can cook to your heart’s content knowing that all is well.

Reducing Flammable Materials in the Kitchen

One of the best first steps you can take in keeping things safe before you cook is preparing your kitchen. While you chop, peel and dice, clean up any nearby clutter and remove anything close to heat sources.

Keep a close eye on where you place pot holders, oven mitts and towels while you cook. Consider wooden utensils, too. Although a popular tool to use in the kitchen, you shouldn’t place them near heat. It only takes a single oil bubble or a spark from one pan to start a disaster.

Think about what you are wearing when you head in to cook. Skip aprons that have dangling strings or other decorations, as well as clothing with flowing fabric or loose material. These are all fire hazards when you are dealing with hot foods and hot appliances.

Keep a Close Eye on Food

When you cook, make sure you never leave the kitchen. There are so many ways a fire can start in the kitchen, and when they do, they can spread so quickly. You need to be close by so that you can take fast action to put flames out before they are out of control.

If you are planning on deep-frying a turkey, you will need to add a few extra precautionary steps to your day. Place the fryer on a level surface, and make sure you don’t put too much oil in it.

Tell the kiddos to stay back, and keep an eye on the four-legged members of your family as well. Thaw your turkey completely—even a partially frozen turkey can cause splatter that will burn anything it touches.

Install Protective Measures

You can’t stop every disaster, but when you take preventive measures, you can greatly lower your risk and rest a lot easier knowing things are protected. Your home should have plenty of protective equipment as well, including smoke detectors on every level of your house. Make sure you check the batteries every month, including in the one by your kitchen.

A small fire extinguisher is another piece of equipment you should have near your kitchen. Make sure you know how to use it properly so that you can move quickly when needed. Keep pot and pan lids where you can grab them fast as well in order to smother potential grease fires.

Keep your home safe and your family eating all holiday season. If something does happen and you have fire damage, call us right away.

We can respond to your property around the clock to get your restoration completed. We make it our goal to get your home put back together so you can carry on celebrating.

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

Backyard Fire Safety | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

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

Summertime might just be the sweetest time. Sioux Falls is bursting with lush greenery and bright flowers, while the temperatures remain mild. Summer is also the best time to get out in the backyard and throw some burgers on the grill.

While there might not be anything better than flame-kissed meat straight off the grill, backyard grilling can become dangerous quickly. Improper use of grills is a leading cause of house fires in the summer. SERVPRO of Sioux Falls wants to make sure you can enjoy every moment this season has to offer without a single worry.

The Setup

In order to grill safely, you need to pick a good spot to set up. Grills should be in an open, outdoor space only, free from overhangs or any overhead combustible materials. That means that even on one of the chilly nights Sioux Falls weather might serve up you shouldn’t move your grill into the garage.

Whatever open space you choose should have a 10-foot radius around it free from structures, low-hanging tree limbs or anything else that could catch fire from sparks. Teach your kids and your pets that this space is a no-play area to keep them safe from potential burns or other accidents.

If you opt for a charcoal grill, make sure to clean it after every use. Remove any ashes or other buildup, and check the body of the grill for holes, dents or signs of wear and tear. For propane or other gas fueled grills, check connections and gas hoses. Make sure nothing is loose and there are no visible holes or signs of holes. A small leak can result in a devastating situation.

Manning the Flames

Once you have your setup and have cleaned your grill, take the time to make sure you have all the necessary supplies before turning it on or lighting it up. Keep a squirt bottle of water at hand for flames that jump too high, and hook up your garden hose or put a fire extinguisher somewhere you can grab it quickly if things do get out of hand.

Don’t leave the grill as soon as the food is done either. While you certainly deserve some applause for your hard work, you need to get everything turned off and start the cooling process. Turn off the gas and any burners, or close off vents in order to stop the flow of oxygen and smother the flames.

Create a habit of cleaning out the ashes as soon as you are able. Flames can start back with little heat, so it’s best to remove them from the heat source quickly. Dispose of them in a metal container, and make sure you check the grill before heading to bed to make sure it has cooled down thoroughly.

You deserve to enjoy the best of the mild and sunny winter Sioux Falls provide. Take the time to create a safe grilling space so you can flip burgers and dogs all season. If things do get out of control, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls for fast restoration, day or night.

Don’t let fire damage linger in your home. Call us at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls for a fast restoration.

Keeping the Fire Pit Safe | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

campfire-style fire pit with flames emerging from the top of the logs on the dark green grass Bonfire season is upon us! SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.

Have you felt the cool breeze in the air lately? After a particularly hot summer, it might be hard to believe, but a break in the heat and humidity is growing ever nearer as fall finally starts to approach. It’s time to get the pumpkin decorations out and play in the leaves.

As the season changes, many of us also start spending more time outdoors around the campfire. While you gather your friends and family around the fire pit, make sure you are taking action to keep everything safe.

SERVPRO® is always available if a fire does leave your yard or home damaged, but we also want to help you prevent a disaster from ever starting in the first place.

Tips for Starting the Fire

Once you have your evening around the fire scheduled, there are few things you want to do to keep it safe:

Do find a spot that will be safe for placing your fire pit or campfire ring. Make sure there are no overhangs, structures or debris nearby.

Do keep water close by in case something does get out of hand. A bucket full or a hose you can turn on in a hurry can put any stray flames out before a disaster starts. Dirt or sand can also help to smother out any rogue sparks, as well as help put out the embers when all the marshmallows are gone.

Do check the weather. Look at the forecast and take note of what is happening outside the day of your fire. Even a little bit of wind can lead to a dangerous situation fast. Take a look at any burn bans that have been issued as well. These can change daily, so make sure you check the day you are planning to have your fire.

Tips for While the Fire Is Hot

As you get the fire going, keep in mind some things you want to make sure you don’t do:

Don’t try and stoke the fire with gas or lighter fluid. Tossing trash in is also a bad idea, and can result in hot and tall flames. Only use treated and approved firewood to keep things going.

Don’t let anyone play near the fire. Create a zone around the fire pit or campfire where no one plays, runs or walks in order to avoid potential accidents.

Don’t make a big fire. You can get caught up in building the fire and be tempted to make it big enough that it won’t need any added wood for a while. Keep it small, though; it only takes a single ember landing in the wrong place to result in an out of control situation.

Don’t leave the fire until it is no longer glowing red. Red embers can still create flames. Pour water over the fire when you are done for the night, and stick around until everything is completely out.

Wildfire Prevention

It is an unfortunate fact that most wildfires are started by humans. If you are going to enjoy an evening around the fire with the family, do everything you can to prevent a disaster. Use the right materials, keep it small and stick around as long as it takes for the fire to go out.

If a fire does create damages on your property, call SERVPRO. With 247 availability, a highly trained staff and industry-leading equipment, we will get things put back together fast.

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

Fire Safety Doesn’t Have to Be Scary | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

6/10/2023 (Permalink)

img src =”fire” alt = " young boy staring at a lit match being held between his fingers” > SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here for you and your family if you experience a fire in your home or business.

There are a lot of rewards that come with raising children, but the responsibility certainly isn’t without some incredibly hard work. You have the blessing of watching them grow and explore the world while teaching them about life. Some lessons, however, are harder to teach than others.

Fire safety is an incredibly important life skill that needs to be taught early and often. It is a scary concept to teach, though, no matter what age you are working with.

When you introduce how to stay safe in a fire emergency to your children in a fun and comfortable way, they can absorb your lessons and your whole family can stay safe.

Explain the Dangers of Fire

Kids learn best when they are able to experience the lesson hands-on in order to see causes and effects. Start your fire safety lessons by explaining to your children different ways fires may start. Walk them through your house and point out particularly risky areas, including the stove and fireplace if you have one. Make sure they understand how this equipment should be safely used.

Matches and lighters should always be kept out of children’s reach, and you should make it a family rule that any found matches should immediately be brought to an adult. Entire homes have been consumed in flames that started from a single smoldering match.

Familiarize Them With Authority

Authority figures can be a scary concept for children, particularly when they are in full uniform. Talk to your children about who would respond should a fire start, and show them pictures of what firefighters look like with their gear on. Make sure they understand these people are there to get them to safety, and consider introducing your children to these heroes in person to help them get even more comfortable.

Practice with your children how they can help firefighters find them during an emergency by creating a couple of games. Have them crawl down a hallway to see who can move the fastest. Use your smoke detector as the starting bell so they get used to hearing it, and have them call out their name at the finish line. Make it a fun experience that will stick with them long-term.

Make a Game Plan Together

Work with your family to create an emergency exit plan that includes the fastest route out of each space in your home. Get creative with it and bring out some craft supplies for the kids as they design their own maps of your home.

Play another timed game with your kids to see who can follow each escape route the fastest. Be sure to talk about windows, and how they should only be used as a last resort way to safely get out of your home. While your children need to be able to properly operate windows, they also need to understand the dangers associated with them so they don’t feel comfortable enough to play inappropriately.

Create a meeting spot safely away from danger. Make sure your children know this is your safe space, and teach them how to call 911. Help them memorize basic facts to relay to safety professionals. The more prepared your family is, the safer everyone can stay.

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

Safe Home Heating All Winter| SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

2/24/2023 (Permalink)

img src =”heater” alt = "a small electric heater in a living room” > Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls if you experience any smoke, soot or fire damage.

The winter chill set in a long time ago, and you have probably been heating your home for some time now. If you are not taking good care of your heating system, though, you could be creating a fire risk in your home.

Life in Sioux Falls means that you have to enjoy cold weather at least a little bit, but you deserve to be able to warm up as much as you want. Take care of your units now so you can rest easy.

Furnace Basics

While furnaces are one of the most common types of heating sources, many of our homes also have radiant floor heat or a boiler. With our extreme winters, it is also not unusual to have a combination of units in a home. Regardless of what kind of heat you use, regular maintenance is crucial to keep things running correctly and long-term.

Keep outside units clear of snow and ice, including any vent covers. Dust regularly to avoid buildup, and change your filter every 90 days. The air filter is crucial for keeping things running well, but it can also help maintain the proper humidity in our moist environment.

Fireplace Safety

For most of our homes, fireplaces or wood-burning stoves are a necessity to provide additional warmth, particularly when a big snowstorm blows through. While the flames can make your home feel magical, they can also leave it at risk for fires. Have them cleaned and inspected regularly to continue the magic without worry.

Wood-burning fireplaces or stoves should be cleared of ash and soot after each use, and the chimney or stove pipes should be inspected to clear any blockages. If you have a gas or electric fireplace, dust it often and remove the logs. Clean the glass and the screen.

Portable Heaters

Space heaters are a great way to warm up a single room quickly, but without proper use, they could easily cause fires. Opt for more blankets on a cold night instead of your space heater, and only run it on a flat surface.

Make sure your space heater has an automatic shut-off feature if it is tipped. Never plug your unit into an extension cord, but always directly into the wall to avoid electric surges and fire.

Keep an eye on little ones and pets when you use any of your heating equipment. Most house fires start from an avoidable accident. Prevent chaos in your home and stay warm and cozy by always being fire-aware.

If you experience fire damage this season, give us a call at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls for immediate assistance. We’re here 247 when you need us!

Don’t Let Lightning Threaten Your Home | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

multiple lightning strikes off in distance of dark purple night sky If you are dealing with smoke or fire damage from a recent fire, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to learn about a restoration solution for your issue.

The proper fire safety equipment is essential to protecting your home and keeping your family safe. Home fires are typically preventable, but there are some risks that we can’t do anything about.

Lightning caused 70,000 insurance damage claims during the year 2020, and it can strike 6,000 times a minute. Protecting your home is crucial when you face such high risks.

What Is Lightning?

Lightning is a surge of electricity between clouds in the air and the ground, and it always comes with thunder. Lightning usually comes with severe weather, but it can also occur during a forest fire, a volcanic eruption or even a snowstorm when it falls heavily enough.

Lightning is a threat in more events than just wet, severe weather. Dry lightning is a phenomenon that happens when there is no rain, which creates a scary situation as wildfires can easily result from a strike. No matter the time of year, it is wise to always be prepared.

Protecting Your Home From Lightning Fires

If your home does take a strike, it can end up with a large amount of damage. A fire may begin within the walls or roof area due to the heat carried by the lightning, or a fire can start due to a surge through your wiring resulting from the bolt.

A fire may not immediately be noticeable, but you will hear the strike when it hits your home.

If a loud noise has occurred, start checking for black burn marks and smell for smoke. Call the fire department, and once they have been able to declare your home free of risks, let an electrician double-check that your wiring is safe so that you avoid the risks of future fires.

A solid form of protection for your home is a lightning rod. This pole can divert the energy and the heat from a strike into the ground, allowing it to avoid your home.

A surge protector for your entire house is another great preventive tool. This can be added to your utility box to protect your electronics, appliances and wiring from strikes.

When Lightning Strikes Nearby

Every year, there is an average of 9,000 wildfires due to lightning strikes. A wildfire that originates from lightning can burn hot and fast due to the incredible heat a strike has.

Check out if defensible landscaping zones are a good idea for the space around your home. This is strategically designed so that a fire is diverted away from your house if one were to start.

You should also clear out dead plants, which means cleaning up fall leaves quickly. Test your smoke detectors on a regular basis, too, and place one on every level of your house.

If you do experience a fire in your home, make a call to SERVPRO right away. We have the industry-leading equipment to handle every step of the fire restoration process. We are available 247 and want to get you back to your life as normal as soon as possible.

Have you experienced smoke or fire damage in your home? Call us today to get the restoration finished fast.

Staying Fire-Aware in the Backyard | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

a close up view of a bright campfire burning at night If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Sioux Falls.

Sitting around the fire with your family is the perfect summer memory maker. Roasting hot dogs, toasting marshmallows and embarrassing your teenagers with stories of your childhood lead to an unforgettable night.

Fire serves us in many ways around our home, including grilling our dinner, keeping the bugs at bay and cleaning up the yard. You may feel like that small brush fire you started is completely in control, but in an instant, it can grow to a dangerous size. The National Park Service found that 85% of wildfires are started by humans.

Like the rest of our state, we have experienced high risk of grassland fires for most of spring and summer this year. The combination of dry grounds, low humidity and high winds created red flag warning days throughout March.

2021 was a very difficult year for wildfires as we watched so much land burn throughout the state. It is important that we are consistently fire-aware in order to keep our homes safe.

This does not mean you have to stop all of your fun. Follow local safety regulations when they are in place, make sure your own safety measures are ready to go and use your backyard as you wish. And don’t forget the chocolate.

Recreational Fire Hazards

Open flames will always come with a risk, but grills, campfires and fireworks are three common ways that fires are started outdoors. Grills are actually to blame for an average of 8,800 home fires each year, mostly due to improper use by the operator. Check your gas line or propane tank before you start your grill, and stay nearby once the grill is hot.

If you are planning a backyard campout, choose a location a fair distance from your house and any outbuildings. Start your fire with matches or a lighter only, and once the flames are going stick to firewood for additional fuel. Flames can start back from just a few embers, so keep a close eye on your fire even if you ate way too much chocolate.

Fire pits are a great accessory to have in the backyard, but they carry the same risks as a regular campfire. While you enjoy a camp-like feel, take safety measures to keep the flames in check. Never place a portable pit on a wooden surface or under an area that has any kind of roof or overhang.

Burning leftover supplies from your last DIY project or other household waste items in your fire pit might seem like a safe and viable option, but only approved firewood should be utilized.

Other Outdoor Fire Hazards

Despite the risks, we still want and need to use fire and other fire related materials around the home and yard. For those of us with lots of trees that lose their leaves, burning the excess might be the best way to clean up the yard when another waste disposal option isn’t available.

Burn permits are required if you plan to burn vegetation and other yard waste, so be sure to check with the city before you start your fire. You will also need to pay close attention to burn bans and be flexible with your dates.

Maintaining an uncluttered yard is essential in wildfire prevention, and when combined with landscaping with defensible fire safety zones in mind, it can actually protect your home. Make sure you follow regulations and only burn what is safe.

If you have yard tools, you likely have a gas can or two laying around as well. Improper storage of gasoline can create a disaster, so ensure your cans are approved containers and stored well out of the reach of any kiddos that may access your storage space.

It is also important to only use gas as intended—so even if the fire does look a little low or is slow to light, don’t reach for the gasoline can.

Before you light any kind of flame outside, check the weather and current local regulations. If there is a burn ban or the weather has been dry and windy, skip the fire and save the s’mores for a better day.

If you do experience fire damage to your home, call SERVPRO right away. We are available 247 with the knowledge and tools to handle every complicated aspect that comes along with fire recovery. It is our goal to restore as much of your property as possible and get your life back on track faster.

Burn safely outdoors. And save some chocolate for us! If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact us today to get restoration started faster.

Staying Fire-Aware in the Backyard | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

a close up view of a bright campfire burning at night If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Sioux Falls.

Sitting around the fire with your family is the perfect summer memory maker. Roasting hot dogs, toasting marshmallows and embarrassing your teenagers with stories of your childhood lead to an unforgettable night.

Fire serves us in many ways around our home, including grilling our dinner, keeping the bugs at bay and cleaning up the yard. You may feel like that small brush fire you started is completely in control, but in an instant, it can grow to a dangerous size. The National Park Service found that 85% of wildfires are started by humans.

Like the rest of our state, we have experienced high risk of grassland fires for most of spring and summer this year. The combination of dry grounds, low humidity and high winds created red flag warning days throughout March.

2021 was a very difficult year for wildfires as we watched so much land burn throughout the state. It is important that we are consistently fire-aware in order to keep our homes safe.

This does not mean you have to stop all of your fun. Follow local safety regulations when they are in place, make sure your own safety measures are ready to go and use your backyard as you wish. And don’t forget the chocolate.

Recreational Fire Hazards

Open flames will always come with a risk, but grills, campfires and fireworks are three common ways that fires are started outdoors. Grills are actually to blame for an average of 8,800 home fires each year, mostly due to improper use by the operator. Check your gas line or propane tank before you start your grill, and stay nearby once the grill is hot.

If you are planning a backyard campout, choose a location a fair distance from your house and any outbuildings. Start your fire with matches or a lighter only, and once the flames are going stick to firewood for additional fuel. Flames can start back from just a few embers, so keep a close eye on your fire even if you ate way too much chocolate.

Fire pits are a great accessory to have in the backyard, but they carry the same risks as a regular campfire. While you enjoy a camp-like feel, take safety measures to keep the flames in check. Never place a portable pit on a wooden surface or under an area that has any kind of roof or overhang.

Burning leftover supplies from your last DIY project or other household waste items in your fire pit might seem like a safe and viable option, but only approved firewood should be utilized.

Other Outdoor Fire Hazards

Despite the risks, we still want and need to use fire and other fire related materials around the home and yard. For those of us with lots of trees that lose their leaves, burning the excess might be the best way to clean up the yard when another waste disposal option isn’t available.

Burn permits are required if you plan to burn vegetation and other yard waste, so be sure to check with the city before you start your fire. You will also need to pay close attention to burn bans and be flexible with your dates.

Maintaining an uncluttered yard is essential in wildfire prevention, and when combined with landscaping with defensible fire safety zones in mind, it can actually protect your home. Make sure you follow regulations and only burn what is safe.

If you have yard tools, you likely have a gas can or two laying around as well. Improper storage of gasoline can create a disaster, so ensure your cans are approved containers and stored well out of the reach of any kiddos that may access your storage space.

It is also important to only use gas as intended—so even if the fire does look a little low or is slow to light, don’t reach for the gasoline can.

Before you light any kind of flame outside, check the weather and current local regulations. If there is a burn ban or the weather has been dry and windy, skip the fire and save the s’mores for a better day.

If you do experience fire damage to your home, call SERVPRO right away. We are available 247 with the knowledge and tools to handle every complicated aspect that comes along with fire recovery. It is our goal to restore as much of your property as possible and get your life back on track faster.

Burn safely outdoors. And save some chocolate for us! If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact us today to get restoration started faster.

Protein Fire Damage Pt.1

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Food cooking on stove in cast iron pan Food cooking on stove in cast iron pan

We’ve all had the vision, you’ve made it through crunch time and the Top Chef judges are just sampling your offering. Unanimous agreement that your dish is the best! Snap back to reality, and your day dreaming has caused your beautiful ribeye in the cast iron to overcook and start smoking. The smoke detector starts ringing and you rush to turn on a fan and open the windows to air out the house. Crisis averted! Well, maybe not entirely.

Smoke and soot damage from cooking may not be as evident as smoke and soot damage from a traditional fire. While cooking animal proteins such as beef or pork, burning the meat in question can produce smoke that is partly composed of animal fats. This smoke will stick to your walls, however, it may not show on your walls like you would think with traditional smoke. Protein smoke leaves behind a sticky film that is hard to see, but can be just as damaging to your home. Over time, other materials will stick to the film of protein smoke on your walls, such as soot from candles or household dust.

Do not worry though! SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is equipped to help you clean and restore your home! Read part two of our protein fire blogs to find out how!

Protein Fire Damage Pt.2

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke damage on walls in top image, smoke damage removed from walls in bottom image Smoke damage on walls in top image, smoke damage removed from walls in bottom image

Hopefully you read our first blog in the series and you called SERVPRO of Sioux Falls immediately after you burnt your steaks on the stovetop! As we discussed in the previous blog entry, smoke damage from protein fires doesn’t always make itself evident immediately, but the damage can become costly over time. As the film sits and breaks down it can begin to damage the walls and ceiling of your home, and often times leaving an odor.

Cleaning your walls may seem like a Herculean task, but SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is ready to answer your call! Upon receiving a call, our team will jump in to action and develop a cleaning and restoration protocol for your home. Our staff will perform the necessary cleaning as well as any painting that is necessary. When smoke damages your home, you know who to call!  

Caring for your contents after a fire

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

stuffed toy unicorn cleaned after fire damage stuffed toy unicorn cleaned after fire damage

Many people are under the assumption that anything in your home that gets damaged by fire, smoke, or soot must be thrown out. Quite the contrary. With developments in technology and the hard work SERVPRO's chemists do in developing the best cleaning products, saving and cleaning your clothing, toys, and most valued possessions can be very possible. 

Granted, depending on material type, some items are non-salvageable. We also see this on items that may have been in the room that the fire occurred in. However, after deeming salvageability, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is able to carefully pack out, inventory, and re-locate your items to our shop for cleaning. 

At our shop, our crew are able to utilize different cleaning products, standard laundry machines, and our state of the art Ultrasonic cleaning machine to get you back your most prized possessions and family heirlooms! 

Board up after Fire

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Exterior of home with damage from fire Exterior of home with damage from fire

While responding to a fire, a firefighter will oftentimes knock out a portion of an exterior wall to help combat the flames, depending on the location of the fire within the home. Once extinguished, you are left with a hole from the exterior of your home in to the interior. This can be particularly concerning if the fire damage in minimal enough that the home can be occupied during cleaning. In the cold winter months in South Dakota, it can easily get cold enough to freeze pipes, causing a burst than can greatly damage your home with water. 

A part of SERVPRO of Sioux Falls’ fire damage response includes board up services to protect the interior of your home against the harsh exterior conditions. When your home is damaged by fire, know that we are standing by to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Damage Reconstruction

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Top floor of home damaged by fire Top floor of home damaged by fire

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is uniquely positioned to help you get your home back to normal after a fire. As a company that provides both fire damage mitigation and construction services, we are able to help you from the start of cleanup and contents pack-out through rebuild and resetting of your contents!

No matter the level of damage present, our construction team is Here to help! If the fire was minimal and requires cleaning and maybe some simple drywall repairs, we’re standing by to help. 

Fire cause a significant amount of structural damage? No worries! Our crew can salvage what applies and then build back the rest exactly how you want it! A fire in your home can be a very traumatic and stressful occurrence, allow us to take some of that stress off your hands! 

What to do after the fire is out

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

Kitchen of home damaged by fire Kitchen of home damaged by fire

A fire in your home can be a very traumatic event. Your life will most likely be disrupted for a number of months. SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is Here to Help restore your home and get you back in your normal lives.

After the important realization that your family is not harmed, you may then start to be concerned with your belongings. We understand this concern and that is why we begin the contents packing and tracking as soon as initial board up and clean up is complete. We know you will be displaced and how important it is to you to have some of your personal belongings in your temporary home to help ease the transition. We will inventory your clothing and other contents and bring them back to our shop to begin the cleaning process. Once at the shop you can tell us which items are a priority for cleaning, such as clothes for work, and we will get those cleaned and returned as quickly as possible.

Once the contents are removed from the home we can begin the necessary demolition and cleaning of the structure. As this process is taking place, our rebuild team will be working with you and your insurance to come up with a plan to make your home a home again!

We know we can’t make the entire process quick and easy, but we will work our hardest to make the job process as smooth as possible with clear communication along the way.

Fireworks Safety Tips

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Fireworks display and SERVPRO of Sioux Falls logo SERVPRO of Sioux Falls logo laid over fireworks display.

We are in the heat of the summer and our favorite summer holiday is right around the corner. We love to celebrate the 4th of July here at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls. And who doesn’t love seeing the joy on the faces of young ones as the fireworks dance across the sky?

As the 4th of July is basically the only time of year that fireworks are legally allowed to be used by amateurs, the risk for fires in the home greatly increases during this time of year. We want to provide you with a few simple tips to keep you, your family, and your home safe!

Fireworks Safety Tips:

  • Do not let young children to handle fireworks. Even sparklers can be dangerous as they can burn at temperatures around 2,000 Degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Don’t use fireworks while under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
  • Never hold lit fireworks in your hand.
  • Be a safe distance away from any structures that could catch fire.
  • Do not point or throw fireworks at other nearby.

Tracking, Packing, and Cleaning Contents

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employee overseeing packing of contents damaged by fire. SERVPRO employee overseeing packing of contents damaged by smoke and soot.

Many folks assume that when you have a fire in your home, the smoke and soot damage is too great and you must dispose of all of your possessions. A common misconception that we run in to with our clients. Boy are they thrilled when they learn the SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has the ability to clean and restore their most treasured family possessions.

The contents cleaning process begins with a cataloging of items that can be salvaged and restored. Our teams carefully pack each item and tag the box with a bar code that communicates with our internal software, allowing us to easily keep track of your possessions.

After everything has been logged and boxed, our team will carefully transport your items back to our shop where we have the space, products, and equipment to get your possessions cleaned and restored.

The cleaning process varies from item to item. Some require detailed cleaning by hand, while other items, such as dishes and glass wear, we are able to utilize our state of the art UltraSonic cleaning system. No matter what we need to do, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help restore your home and your valuables!

Mobile Contents Cleaning

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Damage and debris after fire in home Damage and debris after fire in home

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls was contacted last week by another SERVPRO franchise to assist them on the cleanup and restoration of a home damaged by fire. We were asked to handle the contents cleaning portion of the job. Our team loaded up on our cleaning equipment and products, including our state of the art Ultrasonic cleaning system. 

After the five hour drive and getting settled in to the hotel, our team arrived on site the next morning to start the process of cleaning contents. 

Contents cleaning is a very delicate job, both in that you may be handling delicate and precious items, and delicate in the sense that the trauma after a fire can be very emotional for the homeowner. Our team worked a week straight, cleaning and salvaging everything they could, much to the satisfaction of the homeowner! 

Smoke and Soot get everywhere!

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot damage on wall that was covered with decorations. Smoke and soot damage on wall that was covered with decorations.

Our fire damage mitigation team recently responded to a residential smoke and soot cleanup job in Sioux Falls, and quickly realized the massive effort it would take to clean up after this small fire. Upon inspection, our team realized they would have their hands full with cleaning contents. The customer we were helping collected posters and other knickknacks from traveling and had every inch of the walls in the basement covered. The smoke and soot damage wasn’t entirely evident until they started removing items for cleaning. As you can see in the photo, smoke and soot can get everywhere. Even though a surface may be covered, if there is enough space for air to move, there is enough space for smoke to cause damage! 

Restoring your valuables after a fire

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Before and after cleaning of smoke and soot on customer’s possesions Before and After photos of possession’s cleaned after a fire in Sioux Falls.

A structure fire in your family home is a very traumatic experience. You may be forced to leave your home while cleaning and repairs are completed. Displacement can be difficult, but especially difficult when you don’t have access to your possessions and valuables. 

You may think that your possessions may not be salvageable after a fire and you must purchase new items. This is not the case! SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is experienced in the cleaning of contents damaged by smoke and soot. After arriving on the scene of a house fire, our team will salvage and pack out any contents you may wish to save. Using our proprietary line of SERVPRO cleaning products and our state of the art Ultrasonic cleaning machine, our team is able to clean your salvageable contents! From leather couches to electronics, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is Here to help with your contents cleaning! 

First steps after a fire

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

Damage in Sioux Falls home after a fire Damage in Sioux Falls home after a fire

After experiencing a house fire it is common to feel overwhelmed, stressed, worried and have increased feelings of uncertainty. A house fire can be a terrifying experience, especially for children and pets. After the fire is extinguished and everyone is deemed safe, one of the first things to do is call your insurance agent. They will get the fire damage claims process started for you. You will need to find a safe and comfortable place to stay, even if it is for one night. Your insurance agent should be able to help you with this, as your policy likely includes provisions for lodgings if you have been displaced. Once you have shelter, you can begin to get a plan in place and give you and your family time to rest. After helping you secure lodging and any necessary items such as clothing, your agent will begin the process of restoration in your home. When you reach this stage, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is standing by 24/7 to help. We are able to provide emergency board up services and begin the cleaning and removal of smoke and soot. We know the stresses that can come with a fire in your home, and we want to help you recover, every step along the way.

Number one cause of fires in the home?

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Fire blazing in kitchen Fire blazing in kitchen

There are many potential causes of fires in the home. From faulty wiring to an appliance failure, issues can arise suddenly.

#1 Cause of fires in the home:

The most frequent cause of house fires is unattended cooking!

Now that we know the most frequent source of fires in the home, here are some tips to help stay safe.

  • Be sure to stay in the room while cooking with a heat source. Keeping an eye on your cooking will help you be prepared for any accidents.
  • It is also important to use a timer while cooking so you don’t lose track of time.
  • Vigilance in the kitchen is particularly important during the holidays when cooking and baking more than you usually do.
  • Even while cooking with precautions, accidents can happen. Be sure to have  fire extinguishers throughout your home. Be sure you are properly educated on the use of a fire extinguisher to be prepared in the event that you have to use one.

Should you experience a fire in your home, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is standing by 24/7 to help you through an emergency! 

Fire Danger around the Holidays

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire in Sioux Falls Kitchen fire in Sioux Falls

A fire in the home can be a traumatic experience for everyone involved. With Christmas quickly approaching it is good to remember that the risk of fires in the home are generally higher during the winter months. There are various things this time of year to be cautious of to keep your home fire free. We have compiled a list of the most common causes of fires in the home around the holidays and winter months:

  1. Cooking- Distractions can pull you away from the kitchen, leaving food material susceptible to burning.
  2. Candles- Candles should be extinguished if you are leaving the room.
  3. Christmas trees- An improperly cared for tree can dry quickly and be prone to combustion.
  4. Holiday Lights- Frayed wires or electrical issues can cause fires in the home. 
  5. Space Heaters- Improper use or having the heater set near combustible materials can cause fires.

If you experience a fire make SERVPRO your first call. We understand the value of your possessions,  and our team will work  hard to bring life back into your home or business after a fire. As the local leaders in cleanup and restoration after a fire, let SERVPRO of Sioux Falls help you get your home back.

Fire Cleanup & Restoration Process: Board up and Contents Cleaning

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Items before and after smoke and soot removal Items before and after smoke and soot removal.

One of the biggest disruptions to daily life can be a fire in the home. After the flames are out, the cleaning and restoration work should begin immediately. While some projects around the home can be completed without the aid of a business, dealing with fire damage in the home should be done with the help of a business like SERVPRO of Sioux Falls.

From the start of the project until the finish, we are there to help you along the way. Upon initial arrival at the damaged home, we can begin the cleanup process by boarding up any necessary areas and starting to organize and load up contents. It is a common belief that items affected by smoke or soot are not salvageable. This is an incorrect line of thinking. At SERVPRO, we have the knowledge and the resources to clean and restore many of your belongings. We will track and log all items that we remove from your home, letting you know which items are unsalvageable and which ones we can clean. Using our Ultrasonic cleaning machine and detailed hand-cleaning procedures, we will have your items back to you in the best condition possible.

Holiday Fire Safety

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

Decorated Christmas tree Decorated Christmas tree

“Oh the weather outside is... Well not quite frightful yet, thankfully.” But we are racing in to cooler temps, snow, and the holiday season. The Holiday’s bring about a certain sense of cheer and togetherness. You’re gathered with the family, snuggled up in a cozy blanket, going back for another slice of pie. What’s missing from this scenario? For a lot of families, a nice scented candle like cinnamon apple to tie the whole ambiance together. If you’re going that route, be sure the extra helping of pie doesn’t make you take a nap with the candle burning. With the modern materials in today’s home furnishings, fires can start and spread quickly. If you plan on burning a candle, be sure to always have someone alert with an eye on it, and extinguish the candle before leaving the room.

Christmas Trees... Go with the real thing or Artificial?

A Christmas tree to gather the family around for the holidays is a wonderful sight. Decorated with ornaments and family memories, presents at the bottom, and pretty lights strung throughout. A great image for the holiday season. When choosing a tree for the holiday season, you have the option of using a real tree or an artificial. On the safety side of things, we would recommend using an artificial tree. However, a real tree can be a totally safe option if you maintain the care of it properly. This involves regular watering to keep the tree from drying out. An improperly cared for, dry tree can go up like a matchbox if exposed to a candle or perhaps an electric short from the lights you have used to decorate the tree.

Standing by to help your family!

At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, we want everyone to have a safe, enjoyable holiday season, surrounded by the ones you love. If the worst should happen to your family and you experience a fire in your Sioux Falls area home this season, we are standing by 24-7, “Ready for whatever Happens!”

What to do with belongings after a fire?

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Surfboard damaged by fire before and after cleaning by SERVPRO Surfboard damaged by fire before and after cleaning by SERVPRO

After the fire has been extinguished in your home or business, the true magnitude of damage can be assessed. On top of structural damage caused by the fire, smoke and soot damage can permeate your Sioux Falls area home. The emotional weight we tie to our personal belongings and family memories can make this a very stressful time. 

Let SERVPRO take some of that stress off of your hands. We are experienced in after-fire pack outs and will come to your home or business to collect, log, and track all of your belongings throughout the contents cleaning process.

Once we have the items in our shop, we can begin to use our many proprietary SERVPRO-developed chemicals specifically made to clean different materials after a fire. On top of contents cleaned by hand, we also use an Ultrasonic cleaning system that uses sound waves to produce millions of imploding bubbles that help scrub soiled items cleaned. 

If you should experience a fire in your home, give SERVPRO of Sioux Falls a call at 605-213-3303, and we will do everything in our power to restore your items “Like it never even happened.”

Here to Help Philosophy

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Here to Help image SERVPRO Here to Help image

One of the biggest advantages to choosing SERVPRO as your fire damage experts, is the level of commitment and customer care we bring to each job. We know any type of loss in your home or Sioux Falls area business can be a deeply emotional experience, and we want to remind you that we are Here to Help.

What does Here to Help mean?

One of our core customer philosophies is the phrase Here to Help. Simple enough, but what does it actually mean? When you work with SERVPRO, we want to be able to use our expertise to make the entire project as smooth as possible for you. What does this entail? It means we are a full service, one stop shop provider for you after a loss. When dealing with a fire, we are capable of handling the smoke and soot damage cleaning, contents pack out and cleaning, any necessary demolition, as well as handling any necessary rebuild you may need. We aim to mitigate the trouble and trauma of a fire in your home and business, and give you the peace of mind that your home or business is in great hands. We know each job is different, and we’re here to work with you to tailor our services to fit your needs.

Smoke and Soot Damage

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen after fire damage Kitchen after fire damage.

After the fire has been extinguished and everyone in the home is safe and settled, the next step to take in recovering after a fire in your Sioux Falls area home is to call SERVPRO! We are your local leaders in fire cleanup and restoration. Whether the fire was mild and only includes smoke and soot damage, or the damage to the structure is extensive and a rebuild is needed, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help!

Smoke and Soot Damage after a fire:

After a fire in your home, you may jump in and begin the cleaning process on your own. This is a natural instinct and the right instinct. However, the chemicals present in the home after a fire can be detrimental to the health of the homeowner while also being very difficult to fully remove without industrial cleaners and equipment. Let SERVPRO handle the cleanup for you. We have the know-how and the cleaning chemicals to clean and restore your home. Smoke odor can be very tricky to remove. Using our proprietary cleaning chemicals we are able to either clean the smoke and soot damage or trap the particles so no odor residue remains.

Contents Cleaning:

Even in rooms where the fire wasn’t physically present, the small particles and nature of smoke and soot allow it to travel through your home, often aided by your home’s HVAC system. Worry not, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is able to pack out your clothing and other personal belongings and bring them to our contents cleaning department to clean and restore your items to their best condition.

Reconstruction:

After cleaning has taken place and contents have been collected, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is a licensed general contractor that is able to help you with any of your construction needs. We strive to be a one stop shop for our customers and provide them with great service from first notice of loss all the way through reconstruction.

Summer Safety Series: Grill Safety

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Spread of food on grill Spread of food on grill

Nothing goes quite as well with the heat of summer as the smell of burgers and brats over flames on the grill. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or the whole neighborhood, its important to remember your basic grill safety techniques so you can safely enjoy your time with the people you love!

Grill Outside and Away From Structures

This may seem like a no brainer, but is possibly the most important safety tip. Use caution when setting up your grilling space. Make sure you have adequate space between your grill and any surrounding structures. Be sure to look out for low hanging tree branches over the grill as well.

Keep Your Grill Clean

Not only will this improve the efficiency and taste of your grilling experience, cleaning your grill is an important step for grill safety. As we cook burgers and brats stuffed with cheese, fat will drip down off the grill grates and collect in the bottom of the grill. You may have to do some scraping to knock it loose, but after that a vacuum can be used to collect any ash or grease.

Grill on Stable Surface

Keeping your grill on an even, stable surface is the next important step for grill safety. You want your grill to be stable as you do not want the grill to roll away, or tip over, potentially causing harm to you or your home.

Be Mindful While Grilling

As we tend to get out the grill when we host friends and family, it is very important to be mindful of the grill while it is operating. It is easy to get distracted by pets or children running around having fun. Try to keep anyone not involved with cooking a safe distance away from the grill so they don’t bump in to it, potentially causing a burn.

Most importantly, Have Fun!

From first notice of fire loss, through reconstruction, We’re Here to Help

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Fire Services Flyer Here to Help

A fire in your home or business can be a damaging and traumatic experience. It’s an event that you know can happen, but you don’t give it much thought until it actually happens. When a fire does happen, Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303; Fire cleanup and restoration is our business. We have the staff and know-how to help you throughout the entire process.

Worried about clothing and valuable family heirlooms? Our staff will collect, track, and clean your valuable contents. We have products created by our in-house chemists designed specifically to clean household items damaged by smoke and soot. On top of our products, we also use an ultrasonic cleaning machine to help us restore your items.

Worried about dealing with multiple contractors and strangers coming in and out of your home? Our construction team is here to put you at ease. We have the staff to help you through the whole process, from demolition to reconstruction, to handing your house back to you, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls Fire Restoration

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Home after fire damage Home after fire damage

A fire in the home is a devastating experience. It’s hard to calculate the emotional toll a fire can have on someone, not to mention the financial and physical stress. Your whole life has been turned upside down. It seems like things can’t get better. But they will, and we’re here to help. With our proprietary cleaning chemicals we will be able to remove any soot or smoke residue and odors. 

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has been a local leader in fire restoration services since 2014. Our team of trained professionals aim to create happy customers. We use the latest techniques and technologies to clean smoke and soot, deodorize any smoke smell, and build back your house “Like it never even happened.”

For more information, please visit the fire damage section of our website: https://www.SERVPROwestsiouxfalls.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration

Cleaning contents after a fire

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO team unboxing new cleaning equipment SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls unboxing new cleaning equipment.

Unless you’ve experienced a home fire, you may not be familiar with all the mess and stress that comes with it. Reconstruction, new paint and carpet, and new light fixtures probably come to mind. One area that may not be familiar when it comes to fire damage is contents damage. This can cover clothes, dressers, lamps, anything that isn’t a structural part of your home. Your first thought is that those items are probably discarded and replaced. 

It doesn’t have to be that way. SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls specializes in contents cleaning stemming from fire damage. 

We recently added an ultrasonic cleaning machine to our cleaning equipment arsenal and are excited for its potential. We will now be able to clean your valuables in an even more effective and efficient manner. 

We do this because we care. We know you have special items that hold sentimental value and we will do our best to return them to mint condition! 

Steps to take after fire in the home

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

House fire before restoration services and after Home after a fire, and then the same home after restoration.

So you’ve had a fire in your home. Maybe someone left a candle burning over night. Perhaps you had to step away from the stovetop popcorn and the oil spilled and started a small fire. 

Whether it be a small kitchen fire or multi-level structure damage from a fire, SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is here to help. 

After the immediate danger from the fire subsides the first step as a homeowner is to file a claim with your insurer. Once this process is begun, the next step is searching for a restoration and mitigation company. This is where SERVPRO is ready to help.

Our team of professionally trained fire damage technicians are ready 24/7 to help take all of the worry out of your hands. At SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls we are able to help throughout the process of dealing with fire damage. Our technicians will be able to pack out any contents deemed salvageable and start restoring them to their original condition. 

Our teams are trained in mitigating and cleaning smoke damage from your home. As we have our own construction teams in place we will do as much work as possible in house to simplify the process for both the insured and the insurer. 

Our staff deeply cares about providing a happy experience for the customer. We know that a fire in the home can be a traumatic experience. Our goal here at SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is to clean up, restore, and build back your home “Like it never even happened.”

Holiday Fire Safety

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Flames from fryer fire Flames from oil fire

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls would like to wish a happy and safe Thanksgiving for all! Nothing beats gathering around the dinner table with family and friends to enjoy a bountiful feast. 

With the added chaos of extra visitors around the house, residents need to be aware of this risks and how best to prevent fire damage. 

As our picture can attest, a house fire can do a lot of damage in a small time frame. 

Tips for avoiding Holiday Fire Damage:

  • If you plan on frying a turkey be sure that it is fully thawed before frying. 
  • Keep the fryer on a flat, level surface, away from any buildings or wood structures. 
  • Use proper techniques and kitchen tools. 
  • Never leave the fryer unattended. 
  • Should a fire break out, prevent fire damage by having a fire extinguisher on hand, do not use water to put out an oil fire. 
  • Keep an eye on all stovetop-cooked foods.
  • Do not leave candles burning unattended. 
  • Keep hot or flammable objects out of the reach of children. 
  • Be smart, safe, and have fun!

If the worst case scenario does happen, know that SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is here to help. Our team of fire damage Franchise Professionals will be there to help mitigate smoke and soot damage, and will build back your damaged home “Like it never even happened.”

Nobody Wants To Come Home To This!

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

A kitchen that fire has heavy fire damage to the stove area Devastating to return home to this

Of all the fires reported in the United States every year, 31 percent happen in residential homes. Negligence, open flames, cooking and more are factors in these fires. Half of all house fires start in the kitchen. Not surprising since it’s where you do the most cooking and house many appliances. The dinner hour, between 5:00 and 8:00 p.m. is when most fires happen. The picture is showing a devastating kitchen fire that was likely caused by a small appliance. All levels of the home have a thick covering of black soot and will require demolition and rebuild. Appliances account for about 4 percent of house fires. Here’s some appliance safety tips to follow to decrease your chances of something malfunctioning and catching on fire. Make sure it’s UL approved, never plug them into an extension cord or two-slot outlet and unplug anything, within reason, when you’re on vacation.

SERVPRO’s compassionate staff was there to help this family during the initial walk through to look at the extent of the damage, talk with the adjuster and will continue to be there for them into the pack out phase, demolition and rebuild. Our hearts go out to this family and we’re glad that we’re faster to any size disaster to make this difficult situation as little easier for them.

Continuing Education Course on Fire

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

Attendees using the SERVPRO products

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls recently hosted a continuing education course for insurance professionals. The course was designed to teach and explain the special procedures used by SERVPRO professionals in mitigating and restoring fire damage claims for the insured. The course provided the insurance professionals with a better understanding of the work performed by the mitigation vendor at fire damage work sites. Participants had hands on training using products that SERVPRO technicians will use to clean surfaces after a fire. Emergency tips were given which can drastically reduce the cost of the claim if performed in a timely manner. Some of the tips are: Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring, place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery, coat chrome faucets, trim and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil and place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet. Examples of work performed to mitigate fire damage were shared. The course helped give agents and adjusters a better understanding of what their insured goes through when they have fire damage.

Smoke Damage after a Fire

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

Glass vase with heavy wet soot

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate soft goods, small openings and anywhere in your home, causing hidden damage and odor.

We master smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and 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 West Sioux Falls 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. 

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 – (605) 213-3303

Restore or Replace

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

In progress results of the restoration progress.

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls delivers on the promise of restoring your home after a fire.

After a fire, the soot penetrates all of your home’s furnishings. Our team will go through every item and determine what is restorable and inventory items that cannot be salvaged.

There are many variables that go into determining what should go through the restoration process or be replaced. 

Determinations are made depending on the type of soot, how close the item was to the source of the fire, the material affected, and the value of the item. 

Every home is unique as well as every fire. Our team carefully assesses the damages and involves you and your insurance company in every step to draft a plan and timeline to restore your home.

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is committed to helping make it “Like it never even happened."

Removing Fire Odors

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

Odors from smoke and fire damage can be hard to remove. The odors are complex. Fire damage odors depend on several factors; what materials burned in the home, how hot the fire was, and length of time damages sit before cleanup. 

At SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls, we understand the process of contents restoration.  We take a restore vs. replace approach, saving our customers time and money. 

Ozone is one method that we use to deodorize items after cleaning them.  When used properly, this is a very effective method.  Used improperly, it can be dangerous or ineffective. 

We have a variety of cleaning and deodorizing methods based on science and years of specialized training. Every odor is unique and must be handled differently. Remember that who you choose to clean after a fire is one of the most important decisions you can make and choosing SERVPRO we will remove that smell, "Like it never even happened."

Grandma's Ducks

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

When you hire SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls we not only restore your home we bring your memories back to life. 

Saving Memories

Monica came home to smoke pouring out of her windows. She was in complete awe of what was happening. The fire department knocked out the fire in twenty minutes. 

Once she was able to tour her home, she was completely overwhelmed. She was at a loss for words and overcome by so many emotions. It was SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls' privilege to help Monica and her family. 

We not only were able to clean, deodorize, and rebuild her home; we helped restored memories. The first picture seems like an ordinary duck, full of soot and odor.  You could probably go to a local retail store and purchase a new one. This was not the story. The duck was an important memory; Monica shared that the duck was her grandmother's and when she passed away she made sure she was able to keep it. It reminded her of Grandma's cookies and the fun times as a child. We were able to clean this precious memory and Monica was elated. 

Sioux Falls Tips for Smoke Alarms

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke detectors saved this family!

Tragedy Strikes

It was a cold evening in January with the wind howling outside. A family of four snuggled on the couch to watch their favorite movie. After the movie the family performed their evening bedtime routine. Each child was tucked into bed and drifted off to sleep. After the evening news the Mother and Father couldn’t keep their eyes open and soon were fast asleep.

Loud and intimidating sounds filled the house. One by one the smoke alarms were warning the family of the present danger. The family raced to safety.

A small unattended candle in the bathroom caught the shower curtain on fire. Thanks to their dedicated monthly ritual of testing their smoke alarms the family escaped and were not harmed.

Tips for testing your smoke detector:

Check Location:

  • Smoke detectors should be placed on the ceiling or high up on the wall. Most models look like small, white discs with a single LED light on the top or side.
  • Do not place near doors, windows, or ventilation systems. This may affect air flow of how the smoke would travel to set off the alarm.

Determine Power:

  • Check the power by pressing the test button
  • The alarm should be sounding
  • Walk away and ensure you can hear the alarm from other rooms

Check Smoke Sensor:

  • Hold matches or a lighter in your hand and, while you’re below the smoke detector, hold the flame. Blow it out immediately and let the smoke rise to the detector. The smoke should trigger and set off the alarm. If it does not activate, your detector is not operating correctly.
    • Be careful when handling matches to avoid burning your hands.
    • After the test, you can clean the smoke with a handheld vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth.

 Fire alarms are essential safety devices that, when activated, will alert you of danger and quite possibly save your life by giving you more time to evacuate. Testing your alarms monthly ensures that the detectors and alarms are working properly and will operate as intended during a fire.

What to do after a fire in Sioux Falls

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

In Sioux Falls, SERVPRO is here to help.

After a fire is an overwhelming time.  The things that you do next can help or hurt the cleanup process.  If you have a fire in the Sioux Falls area, here are some tips to follow.

Do:

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
  • Keep hands clean.  Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork. 
  • Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
  • If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
  • Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
  • If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
  • Wash both sides of leaves on house plants.
  • Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system. 

After a fire, call SERVPRO in Sioux Falls at (605) 213-3303.

Things to avoid after a fire

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO in Sioux Falls to help restore your home.

After a fire is an overwhelming time.  The things that you do next can help or hurt the cleanup process.  If you have a fire in the Sioux Falls area, here are some tips to follow.

Don't:

  • Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
  • Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO  Franchise Professional.
  • Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
  • Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water.  (They may be contaminated.)
  • Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet.  Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
  • Send garments to the dry cleaner.  Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor. 

After a fire, call SERVPRO in Sioux Falls at (605) 213-3303.

Sioux Falls Smoke and Soot Cleanup

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Sioux Falls Home.

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 West Sioux Falls 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 – (605) 213-3303

Sioux Falls Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/22/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Sioux Falls Home

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 West Sioux Falls 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 – (605) 213-3303

Fire Damage Odors

11/24/2015 (Permalink)

Ozone machine designed to change bad odors and eliminate them.

How can you remove that smell?

Odors from smoke and fire damage can be hard to remove. The odors are complex. Fire damage odors depend on several factors; what materials burned in the home, how hot the fire was, and length of time damages sit before cleanup. 

At SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls, we understand the process of contents restoration.  We take a restore vs. replace approach, saving our customers time and money. 

Ozone is one method that we use to deodorize items after cleaning them.  When used properly, this is a very effective method.  Used improperly, it can be dangerous or ineffective. 

We have a variety of cleaning and deodorizing methods based on science and years of specialized training. Every odor is unique and must be handled differently. Remember that who you choose to clean after a fire is one of the most important decisions you can make and choosing SERVPRO we will remove that smell, "Like it never even happened."

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