Recent Fire Damage Posts

What to Do: Fires are NO MATCH for SERVPRO.

4/10/2022 (Permalink)

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

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

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

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

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

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

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

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

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

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Our technicians respond quickly, providing a full line of cleaning and mitigation services to help ensure faster recovery. We utilize technology designed specifically to provide you and your insurance company with quick. dependable information necessary to make more informed decisions faster, saving both time and money. 

Getting Rid Of Odors

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized. Fire, smoke, and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems. As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard-to-reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors. With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IIRC), SERVPRO of Huntington provides specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. We do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; we seek out and remove the sources of the odor. If you or a customer suffer fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services, contact SERVPRO of Huntington at (304) 429-2233. Whether its fire, water, or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we'll help make it "Like it never even happened."

Other Odors that may require DEODORIZATION:

  • Cigarette Smoke
  • Pet Odors
  • Decomposition
  • Mold

Space Heaters Need SPACE!

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Huntington reminds you that half of all home heating fires happen during the months of December, January, and February. The National Fire Protection Association Agency offer the following safety tips:

  • Place the heater on a hard, level, and nonflammable surface. They are intended to sit on the floor and not a table.
  • Establish a 3-foot kid and pet-free zone around the heater, and never put a space heater in a child's room.
  • Keep the space heater at least 3 feet away from such combustible materials as furniture, bedding, and curtains.
  • Do not use a heater in a workshop or garage near paint, gas cans, or matches.
  • Turn it off when you leave the room or go to bed.
  • Unplug the heater when not in use by pulling the plug straight from the outlet. Check the cord for damage periodically, and do not use it if it’s frayed or worn.
  • Do not plug another electrical device or an extension cord into the same outlet as a heater, which can cause overheating.
  • Install working smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them monthly.

SERVPRO of Huntington is always available 24/7/365 to service your needs!  Call us at (304) 429-2233.

50% Is The Percent Of Fires That Start In The Kitchen

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of  Huntington know that cooking equipment is the leading cause of fire damage and fire injuries in the home.

SERVPRO wants you to be safe, so to help prevent fire damage, we have these suggestions for preventing kitchen fires. They make more sense than not cooking at home.

SERVPRO of Huntington would like to offer these tips for Fire Prevention in the kitchen:

  • Keep anything that can catch fire at least 3 feet away from the stovetop
  • Many kitchen items can catch fire, including dishtowels, oven mitts, recipes, wooden tools, and loose clothing
  • Never operate the stove or oven when you are tired or have been drinking alcohol
  • Keep children at least 3 feet away from the stove or oven
  • If you are frying, broiling, grilling, or boiling food, stay in the kitchen. If you leave, even for a short time, turn off the heat
  • If you are baking, roasting, or simmering food, stay in the house. If you leave, even for a short time, turn off the heat

Remember that fire is fast. If you cannot contain a fire immediately, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 from outside the home. It is also a great idea to have a fire escape plan.

SERVPRO of Huntington reminds you that fire prevention is the best strategy against fire damage. Give us a call today at (304) 429-2233 and see how we can help you make it "Like it never even happened."

The Essentials Avoiding Further Damage After A Fire Damage Experience

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

The Essentials Avoiding Further Damage After A Fire

Determining that you can or cannot refurbish after a fire damage incident is critical when you need to prevent further damage. However, how can you start doing that when at the first place you do not know whether you can safely re-enter your home? That is why you need the input of professional fire restorers as a resident of Dover. The moment we arrive at the site, we perform an inspection that allows us to identify any existing hazards and device appropriate restoration procedures.

Our SERVPRO technicians understand the need of enhancing air movement when attending to fire damage. To do this, we install fans to improve air circulation, and when the area is so warm, we may close the windows set up dehumidifiers to absorb the additional moisture. We normally use refrigerant and desiccant dehumidifiers at this stage. The dehumidifiers and fans also play a significant role when we are drying your carpets and draperies. It is important to thoroughly dry the items to reduce the chances of mold growth.

After a fire, the oily soot and land on draperies, carpets and other textiles and leave behind stains. To remove the stains from such items, our SERVPRO technicians perform heavy-duty vacuuming. After running the vacuum cleaner, we usually cover the textiles to prevent the surfaces from tracking other soil particles.

Almost all fires leave behind odors that settle on your upholstered furniture, clothing, draperies, and carpets. Despite that, there is nothing like having the same types of odor sources in all fires. That means our type of material that the fire burned helps our SERVPRO technicians to choose the deodorants we use to eliminate the odors. In some cases, we may run an ozone generator to break up the smoke molecules with the aim of eliminating the unpleasant smells.

Avoid Grill Burns!

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

One of America's favorite Fourth of July pastimes is to grill.  According to the NFPA, over 16,000 people a year go to the hospital due to grill-related injuries.  Here are some tips on how to stay safe during grilling season:

  • Wear short sleeves or keep your sleeve rolled up
  • Use long-handled grilling utensils
  • Keep a three foot safe zone around grills

If you do get a burn, here's what to do:

  • Run cool (not cold) water over the burn
  • Cover the burn with a clean medical cloth
  • See a doctor if the burn is bigger than the palm of your hand, is in a sensitive area, or the person burned is a senior or child

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Fire Statistics

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) smoking materials, including cigarettes, pipes, and cigars, started an estimated 17,200 home structure fires reported to U.S. fire departments in 2014. These fires caused 570 deaths, 1,140 injuries and $426 million in direct property damage. SERVPRO of Huntington has the water and fire damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. Once the fire department leaves, your home may suffer from water damage caused by firefighting efforts. We have the specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call SERVPRO of Huntington Today – (304) 429-2233

Common Causes of Household Fires

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Here are top 5 most common causes of house fires as identified by the National Fire Protection Association.

Candles

From 2007-2011, the NFPA says there were an average of 10,630 fires in the U.S. that were started by candles, causing 115 deaths, 903 injuries and approximately $418 million in property damage. That is an average of 29 candle fires per day.

Safety tips:

  • Never leave a candle burning near flammable items.
  • Never leave a candle burning in a child’s room or an unoccupied room.
  • Make sure candles fit securing into candle holders so they won’t tip over.
  • Blow out any candles before leaving a room or going to sleep

Smoking

While the number of fires caused by smoking is trending downward, the NFPA found that there was still an average of 17,600 related fires per year resulting in 490 deaths and more than $516 million in property damage.

Safety tips:

  • If you smoke, consider smoking outside.
  • Use wide, sturdy ashtrays to catch butts and ashes.
  • Look for cigarette butts under furniture and between seat cushions to make sure no lit butts have fallen someplace where they can’t be seen.
  • Don’t smoke in bed, when you’re tired or around medical oxygen.

Electrical & Lighting

According to the NFPA, in 2011 approximately 47,700 home structure fires were caused by some sort of electrical failure or malfunction. These resulted in 418 deaths, 1,570 injuries and $1.4 billion in property damage.

Safety tips:

  • Don’t overload outlets or electrical cords.
  • Make sure you have the right cord for the job – inside cords for inside, heavy duty/outside cords for outdoor use.
  • Don’t leave Christmas lights, Christmas trees, or halogen lights on overnight or when not at home.
  • Consider having an electrician perform an annual checkup of your home’s wiring.

Dryers & Washing Machines

Clothes dryer fires happen more often than one might think, accounting for 16,800 home structure fires in 2010 and doing more than $236 million in property damage. 

Safety tips:

  • Clean the lint screen frequently and don’t run the dryer without it.
  • For gas and propane dryers, make sure there aren’t any leaks in the lines.
  • Vent the dryer to the outside of the house and ensure nothing blocks the vent pipe.
  • Clean the vent pipe and the area where the screen is housed.
  • Keep the area around the dryer free of combustible materials.

Lightning

From 2007-2011, NFPA says there were an average of 22,600 fires per year caused by lightning strikes.

Safety tips:

  • Stay away from doors and windows during an electrical storm.
  • Do not use corded phones, computers, TVs or other electrical equipment during storms.
  • Unplug major electronics – TVs, stereo equipment, computers and microwaves to minimize damage if there is a lightning strike close by.
  • Avoid plumbing such as sinks, baths and faucets during a thunderstorm.

You experience a fire in your home, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Huntington at (304) 429-2233

Space Heaters Need Their Space

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Huntington reminds you that half of all home heating fires happen during the months of December, January, and February. The National Fire Protection Association Agency offer the following safety tips:

  • Place the heater on a hard, level, and nonflammable surface. They are intended to sit on the floor and not a table.
  • Establish a 3-foot kid and pet-free zone around the heater, and never put a space heater in a child's room.
  • Keep the space heater at least 3 feet away from such combustible materials as furniture, bedding, and curtains.
  • Do not use a heater in a workshop or garage near paint, gas cans, or matches.
  • Turn it off when you leave the room or go to bed.
  • Unplug the heater when not in use by pulling the plug straight from the outlet. Check the cord for damage periodically, and do not use it if it’s frayed or worn.
  • Do not plug another electrical device or an extension cord into the same outlet as a heater, which can cause overheating.
  • Install working smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them monthly.

SERVPRO of Huntington is always available 24/7/365 to service your needs!  Call us at (304) 429-2233.

Cleaning Your Contents After A Fire Loss

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

Getting your house back together after a fire loss is no easy task, but SERVPRO of Huntington is up for it!

Making sure all of your valuables, family heirlooms, priceless trinkets, and uncle Bob's famous rocking chair are clean of all soot and smoke smell is your top priority, therefore it is our top priority.

Like I said it's no easy task:

FIRST, we start with inventorying your content and separating the salvageable from the non-salvageable. (Items that are too big to be boxed will still be taken from the loss site for cleaning while work is being done to home).

SECOND, we carefully pack up the salvageable content from the home to take it to our secured warehouse, where we start the cleaning process.

THIRD, we start by unpackaging the items, clean items, and repack the item into new boxes. (Due to possible smoke or soot being on the boxes when the items were packed, we must put them into new boxes now).

FOURTH, Now that the contents have been individually cleaned and re-boxed, they can be put into our Ozone room where our ozone generator is able to take any addition smoke smell out of the material.

FIFTH, Once your home is put back together, we will bring your items back and put them right where they're suppose to go, "Like it never even happened."

Extinguish Odors With Deodorization

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized. Fire, smoke, and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems. As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard-to-reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors. With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IIRC), SERVPRO of Huntington provides specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. We do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; we seek out and remove the sources of the odor. If you or a customer suffer fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services, contact SERVPRO of Huntington at (304) 429-2233. Whether its fire, water, or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we'll help make it "Like it never even happened."

Other Odors that may require DEODORIZATION:

  • Cigarette Smoke
  • Pet Odors
  • Decomposition
  • Mold

Getting Rid Of Odors

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized. Fire, smoke, and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems. As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard-to-reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors. With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IIRC), SERVPRO of Huntington provides specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. We do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; we seek out and remove the sources of the odor. If you or a customer suffer fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services, contact SERVPRO of Huntington at (304) 429-2233. Whether its fire, water, or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we'll help make it "Like it never even happened."

Other Odors that may require DEODORIZATION:

  • Cigarette Smoke
  • Pet Odors
  • Decomposition
  • Mold

How To Pick and Maintain Your Christmas Tree

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

When Picking Your Tree:

  • Check the trunk for stickiness
  • Check limbs for flexibility
  • Tap trunk of tree on the ground, if a lot of needles fall off, it's not a fresh tree

Maintaining Your Tree:

  • Cut 2" off of the trunk to get to the "Fresh Meat" so it can soak up water (DO NOT SKIP THIS STEP)
  • Make sure the water in your tree stand stays above the bottom of the trunk
  • Once the trunk is soaking in water, there should be no reason to refill the stand

A real Christmas Tree can fill your home with the smell of Christmas however, properly hydrating your tree is one of the most important parts of preventing Christmas tree fires! Please keep this in mind when searching for that perfect tree!

50% Is The Percent Of Fires That Start In The Kitchen

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of  Huntington know that cooking equipment is the leading cause of fire damage and fire injuries in the home.

SERVPRO wants you to be safe, so to help prevent fire damage, we have these suggestions for preventing kitchen fires. They make more sense than not cooking at home.

SERVPRO of Huntington would like to offer these tips for Fire Prevention in the kitchen:

  • Keep anything that can catch fire at least 3 feet away from the stovetop
  • Many kitchen items can catch fire, including dishtowels, oven mitts, recipes, wooden tools, and loose clothing
  • Never operate the stove or oven when you are tired or have been drinking alcohol
  • Keep children at least 3 feet away from the stove or oven
  • If you are frying, broiling, grilling, or boiling food, stay in the kitchen. If you leave, even for a short time, turn off the heat
  • If you are baking, roasting, or simmering food, stay in the house. If you leave, even for a short time, turn off the heat

Remember that fire is fast. If you cannot contain a fire immediately, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 from outside the home. It is also a great idea to have a fire escape plan.

SERVPRO of Huntington reminds you that fire prevention is the best strategy against fire damage. Give us a call today at (304) 429-2233 and see how we can help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Soot On Your Contents

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

Soot includes the fine black particles, chiefly composed of carbon, produced by incomplete combustion of coal, oil, wood, or other fuels. Soot can consist of acids, chemicals, metals, soils, and dust. The common trait of soot particles is that they are extremely tiny. Any material that can burn can produce soot, including natural gas, LP, wood, oil, candle wax, gasoline, diesel fuel, tobacco smoke, dust, dirt, cooking oils, and carpet fibers. Fine soot particles can cling to surfaces such as walls and ceilings, as well as building contents. Soot can be difficult, sometimes impossible to remove. Dry soot can be cleaned using dry cleaning sponges. However, oily soot calls for a little more abrasive approach.  At SERVPRO of Huntington our technicians have the knowledge and "know how" to get your stuff looking "Like it never even happened." 

Can Your Bedroom Door Keep Flames and Smoke Out?

5/20/2019 (Permalink)

Here is a good video on how safe your bedroom could be during a fire. These little tips could definitely help any person during a fire situation. Enjoy the video. These little tips could keep your family safe and alive. Hope this helps any husband, wife or parent. Here is the link for the story.

https://www.today.com/video/fire-safety-can-your-bedroom-door-keep-flames-and-smoke-out-1344392259981?v=raila&cid=public-rss_20181015

Officials are issuing an urgent alert when it comes to home fires – sleep with your bedroom door closed. Turns out, this simple decision dramatically increases your chance of survival if your house were to catch fire. TODAY national investigative correspondent Jeff Rossen reports and has an eye-opening demonstration.

Our Guide To Successfully Restoring Your Fire Damaged Home

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Crew Discusses The Restoration Process

If a fire ever takes place on your property in Dover, it is a good idea to call in a professional restoration company like SERVPRO. In many cases, the fire damage can get worse if it is not attended to quickly by experienced technicians. Soot residues can permanently stain surfaces and be harder to remove if not treated promptly. The longer burnt smells exist in a building, the more difficult they will be to remove. In some fire damage situations, water can be an issue if it was used to extinguish the blaze.

Since we know that time is vital, our SERVPRO team responds to every emergency call we receive as quickly as possible. Even though every fire damage project is different, our team always follows the same procedure to make sure all bases are covered. The process always follows a set of steps that ensure we do the best job we can.

The first step of our restoration process starts with the first phone call. Once you call us and tell us you have a problem we take all of your contact information and figure out as much as we can about your situation over the phone. We then schedule a time to come to your home and proceed to the next step.

Next, we arrive at your home and get the remainder of the information we need from you. We find out from you everything that happened so that we get a good idea of where we need to inspect. Then, we go throughout your house and inspect for problems. We also test affected areas and try to figure out if affected materials are cleanable or not.

We then make an initial estimate for you and your insurance adjuster that gives a good idea of the work involved. We outline what we think needs to be replaced and what we think we can save. Next, we schedule all of the working procedures with you and begin the restoration procedures.

The Essentials Avoiding Further Damage After A Fire Damage Experience

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

The Essentials Avoiding Further Damage After A Fire

Determining that you can or cannot refurbish after a fire damage incident is critical when you need to prevent further damage. However, how can you start doing that when at the first place you do not know whether you can safely re-enter your home? That is why you need the input of professional fire restorers as a resident of Dover. The moment we arrive at the site, we perform an inspection that allows us to identify any existing hazards and device appropriate restoration procedures.

Our SERVPRO technicians understand the need of enhancing air movement when attending to fire damage. To do this, we install fans to improve air circulation, and when the area is so warm, we may close the windows set up dehumidifiers to absorb the additional moisture. We normally use refrigerant and desiccant dehumidifiers at this stage. The dehumidifiers and fans also play a significant role when we are drying your carpets and draperies. It is important to thoroughly dry the items to reduce the chances of mold growth.

After a fire, the oily soot and land on draperies, carpets and other textiles and leave behind stains. To remove the stains from such items, our SERVPRO technicians perform heavy-duty vacuuming. After running the vacuum cleaner, we usually cover the textiles to prevent the surfaces from tracking other soil particles.

Almost all fires leave behind odors that settle on your upholstered furniture, clothing, draperies, and carpets. Despite that, there is nothing like having the same types of odor sources in all fires. That means our type of material that the fire burned helps our SERVPRO technicians to choose the deodorants we use to eliminate the odors. In some cases, we may run an ozone generator to break up the smoke molecules with the aim of eliminating the unpleasant smells.

When Fire Destroys your home

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

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

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

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

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

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

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

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

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

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Our technicians respond quickly, providing a full line of cleaning and mitigation services to help ensure faster recovery. We utilize technology designed specifically to provide you and your insurance company with quick. dependable information necessary to make more informed decisions faster, saving both time and money. 

Avoid Grill Burns!

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

One of America's favorite Fourth of July pastimes is to grill.  According to the NFPA, over 16,000 people a year go to the hospital due to grill-related injuries.  Here are some tips on how to stay safe during grilling season:

  • Wear short sleeves or keep your sleeve rolled up
  • Use long-handled grilling utensils
  • Keep a three foot safe zone around grills

If you do get a burn, here's what to do:

  • Run cool (not cold) water over the burn
  • Cover the burn with a clean medical cloth
  • See a doctor if the burn is bigger than the palm of your hand, is in a sensitive area, or the person burned is a senior or child

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Pets and Fireworks

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

The Fourth of July may be a fun time filled with grilling, family, and fireworks.  One member of your family that may not be having such a good time is your pet.  Fireworks and Fourth of July festivities can cause undue stress for cats, dogs, and other animals.  Here are some tips to keep them safe:

  • Never take a pet to a fireworks display
  • Keep your pet in a safe room in your home insulated from sound if you let off fireworks
  • Make sure your pet has an ID tag just in case they run off during a display
  • NEVER let off fireworks near pets!

Also keep in mind: although many fireworks are legal in the state of WV, any that are loud or go up in the air violate Huntington city code.  Folks who use them are subject to stiff fines and penalties, so be aware! 

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Bonfire safety

5/17/2018 (Permalink)

Summer is coming up soon, and one hallmark of summer is bonfires.  Under the right conditions, a bonfire is a summer rite of passage.  Without caution, though, a bonfire can quickly grow out of control.  Here are a few tips to keep things safe:

  • Use a fire pit
  • Avoid bonfires during windy conditions
  • Avoid using lighter fluid or accelerants
  • Wear non-flammable clothing and hard-soled shoes
  • Have a fire extinguisher nearby
  • Keep an eye on kids and pets
  • Have a sober fire spotter if alcohol is involved in your celebration
  • Make sure the fire is completely put out when you're done

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Spring cleaning fire safety tips

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

Fire hazards can build up in your garage if you're not careful!

It's almost the end of March, which means you're probably knee-deep in spring cleaning. While dusting the out-of-reach places and organizing plastic containers, you can also take some steps to reduce the threat of a house fire.  Here are a few tips:

  • Clean your laundry room of anything around the dryer that could be flammable.  Also remember to clean your lint trap after every load!
  • Install a smoke detector in every bedroom and hallway outside of bedrooms.
  • Test your smoke detector once a month.
  • Check electrical cords for fraying or defects
  • Clean your garage and get rid of flammable items such as newspapers and cardboard boxes
  • Check any storage spaces (garage, under the sink) for flammable liquids that may be leaking

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Huntington! Put a freeze on winter holiday fires!

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

With a few handy tips, you can keep your tree and your home safe from fires this holiday season!

The holidays are a time of family, good friends, and great food, but they can also create a risk for house fires.  Although Christmas tree fires are rare, they are dangerous.  According to the National Fire Protection Association, US firefighters responded to an average of 200 house fires between 2011 and 2015 caused by Christmas trees, resulting in six deaths and $14.8 million in property damage. Candles can also be a cause for concern: the top three days for candles causing house fires are Christmas, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day.  

Here are some ways to stay safe this holiday season:

  • Make sure your Christmas tree is at least three feet away from any heat source.
  • If you have a real tree, water it every day to make sure it doesn't dry out.
  • Connect no more than three strands of lights together.
  • Replace any burnt out or non-working bulbs.
  • Keep candles 12 inches away from anything flammable.
  • Keep any flammable decorations away from your stove and oven
  • Make sure any electronic decorations have cords that are not frayed or damaged.
  • Get rid of your tree promptly so it doesn't dry out and risk catching fire

Winter Fire Safety Tips

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

A roaring fireplace is a holiday icon but can also cause an increase in house fires during winter if left unattended.

In the words of Game of Thrones, winter is coming, which means an increased risk of house fires.  FEMA reports that a spike in structure fires happens in winter due to faulty heating and unsafe open fires. They also  found that in 2015, firefighters in the United States responded to over 365,500 house structure fires, with West Virginia being one of the top states for house fires.  

How do you keep your home and loved ones safe?  Here are some practical tips:

Candles can be a lovely accent to a home, but can also be dangerous if left unattended.  Make sure you keep an eye on lit candles and do not light near flammable materials.  Be especially cautious if children are in the room with candles.

Do not smoke in bed or near oxygen tanks.  Make sure your ashtray catches any stray ashes and that all cigarette butts are fully stubbed out. Consider smoking outdoors instead of in your home.

Do not overload your outlets or surge protectors.  Do not leave Christmas lights on overnight or while you are not home.  Do not cover electrical cords with rugs or other cloth material.

Have a working smoke detector in each bedroom and on every floor.  Fire extinguishers are a minimal investment that can be a life saver. Keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen and garage.  

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

House fires can happen to any family.  If you find yourself needing our expert help with a house fire, we are available 24/7 365 days a year. 

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 SERVPRO of Huntington Today –304-429-2233