The benefits of having a fire sprinkler system installed in your home

12/11/2024 (Permalink)

Investing in a fire sprinkler system for your home is a smart choice for safety, property protection, and long-term savings.

When it comes to safeguarding your home from fire damage, installing a fire sprinkler system can make all the difference. While smoke detectors are essential for early warning, sprinklers actively work to suppress flames, offering an extra layer of protection. In this blog, we’ll explore the key benefits of having a fire sprinkler system installed in your home, backed by expert insights and data to help you make an informed decision.

Immediate Response to Fire

A fire sprinkler system is designed to respond instantly when a fire is detected, often within moments of the flames starting. This rapid response significantly reduces the risk of major fire damage, as the sprinkler will activate before the fire has a chance to spread. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fire sprinklers reduce the average property loss by 70% when compared to homes without them. 

Protecting Your Property and Valuables

One of the biggest advantages of having a home sprinkler system is the level of protection it provides for your property. Fires can quickly destroy everything in their path, but sprinklers can help control the blaze until firefighters arrive, minimizing the destruction. This means fewer lost valuables and less structural damage to your home. For homeowners who store important documents, family heirlooms, or expensive electronics in their homes, a fire sprinkler system offers peace of mind.

Cost-Effective Safety Solution

Many homeowners assume that fire sprinkler systems are expensive, but the reality is quite different. Not only is the cost of installation becoming more affordable, but having a system in place can also reduce your home insurance premiums. Many insurance companies offer significant discounts for homes with fire sprinkler systems, as they lower the risk of a complete loss during a fire. Over time, these savings can offset the initial installation costs.

Easy and Low Maintenance

Fire sprinkler systems are designed to be reliable and require minimal maintenance. Once installed, they require only annual inspections to ensure they’re functioning properly. Homeowners can rest easy knowing their system is always ready to activate if needed. Unlike fire extinguishers, which require regular replacement and manual operation, sprinkler systems are automatic, making them a hassle-free solution for fire safety.

Peace of Mind for Your Family

A fire sprinkler system isn’t just about protecting your property—it’s also about protecting the people you love. Knowing that your home has a system in place to suppress fires provides invaluable peace of mind. Whether you’re home or away, the system is on standby, ready to respond instantly in case of an emergency.

Key Benefits Recap:

• Immediate response to fire
• Reduced property damage and losses
• Potential insurance savings
• Low maintenance requirements
• Enhanced safety and peace of mind

Investing in a fire sprinkler system for your home is a smart choice for safety, property protection, and long-term savings. Reach out to professionals like SERVPRO® of West Jordan to learn more about installation and the added protection these systems can offer your home.

How to handle an electrical fire in your home

8/14/2024 (Permalink)

Electrical fires are a serious hazard that can cause significant damage to your home if not addressed promptly and correctly. At SERVPRO®, we understand the stress and panic that can accompany such emergencies. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you handle an electrical fire in your home safely and effectively. Follow these steps to ensure your safety and minimize damage.

Recognize the Signs of an Electrical Fire

The first step in dealing with an electrical fire is recognizing the signs. Common indicators include: A persistent burning smell, especially of plastic or rubber, discolored or scorched wall outlets, frequent circuit breaker trips or blown fuses, sparking or crackling sounds from electrical appliances or outlets. If you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to act quickly to prevent a full-blown fire.

Immediate Actions to Take

• Turn Off the Power:

If safe to do so, locate your home’s electrical panel and switch off the main power supply. This can prevent the fire from spreading and reduce the risk of electric shock.

• Use a Fire Extinguisher:

If the fire is small and contained, use a Class C fire extinguisher, which is specifically designed for electrical fires. Never use water to extinguish an electrical fire, as water conducts electricity and can cause further hazards.

• Evacuate the Premises:

If the fire is not easily controllable, evacuate your home immediately. Ensure everyone gets out safely and gathers at a designated meeting spot. Call 911 once you are safely outside.

Preventing Electrical Fires

Prevention is key when it comes to electrical fires. Here are some proactive measures to keep your home safe.

Have a licensed electrician regularly inspect your home’s wiring, outlets, and electrical panels regularly to identify and rectify potential hazards. Plugging too many devices into a single outlet can cause overheating and increase the risk of an electrical fire. Use power strips with surge protectors and be mindful of the load on each circuit. Regularly check your appliances for signs of wear and tear. Frayed cords, broken plugs, or exposed wires can all be sources of electrical fires. Ensure that smoke detectors are installed in every room, especially near bedrooms and electrical panels. Test them monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year.

After the Fire

Once the fire is out and it’s safe to re-enter your home, the recovery process begins. This is where SERVPRO comes in. Our team of professionals specializes in fire damage restoration, including soot removal, odor control, and structural repairs. We work swiftly to restore your home to its pre-fire condition, making the recovery process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Contact SERVPRO for Expert Fire Damage Restoration

If you’ve experienced an electrical fire, don’t hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO. Our expert team is available 24/7 to provide comprehensive fire damage restoration services. We are dedicated to helping you get back on your feet and ensuring your home is safe and secure. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.

Remember, when it comes to electrical fires, quick action and professional assistance are crucial. Stay safe and let SERVPRO be your trusted partner in fire damage restoration.

Navigating Electrical Fires: Swift Action for Home and Business Safety

4/5/2024 (Permalink)

Electrical fires can be frightening and pose serious risks to both homes and businesses. Understanding how to respond promptly and effectively is crucial for minimizing damage and ensuring the safety of occupants. In this blog, we'll explore the essential steps to take if you experience electrical fires in your home or business.

Prioritize Safety

The safety of everyone on the premises is the top priority. If the fire is small and can be controlled, follow safety protocols. However, if the fire is spreading rapidly or poses a significant threat, evacuate immediately.

Dial emergency services (911 in the United States) as soon as you are safe to do so. Provide them with your location, details about the fire, and any potential hazards.

Do Not Use Water

Water conducts electricity, and attempting to extinguish an electrical fire with water can result in electrocution. Never use water on an electrical fire. If it is safe to do so, cut off the power supply to the affected area. Locate the electrical panel and switch off the circuit breaker or remove the fuse. This can help prevent the fire from spreading.

Use a Class C Fire Extinguisher

Class C fire extinguishers are designed specifically for electrical fires. If you have one on hand and are trained to use it, aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire and sweep back and forth.

If the fire cannot be controlled, or if there is dense smoke, evacuate the building immediately. Stay low to the ground to avoid inhaling toxic smoke, which rises.

Close Doors Behind You

As you evacuate, close doors behind you to help contain the fire and slow its spread. This can buy valuable time for emergency responders. In the event of an electrical fire, never use elevators. Use stairs to evacuate, as elevators may malfunction during a fire. Listen for updates from emergency services and follow their instructions. Staying informed is crucial for making decisions that prioritize your safety.

Do Not Re-enter Premises

Once you have evacuated, do not re-enter the premises until emergency services declare it safe to do so. Structural damage or lingering hazards may pose risks After the fire has been extinguished and the premises are deemed safe, consult with electrical professionals to assess and repair any damage to the electrical system.

Review and Revise Safety Plans

After the incident, review evacuation plans and safety procedures. Revise plans if necessary and ensure all occupants are aware of emergency protocols. Experiencing a fire, even if it is contained, can be emotionally distressing. Seek support from friends, family, or mental health professionals to cope with the aftermath.

Being prepared and taking swift, decisive action during an electrical fire is crucial for the safety of occupants and the preservation of property. By understanding the steps to take in the event of an electrical fire and regularly reviewing safety protocols, you can create a proactive approach that minimizes risks and enhances overall safety in your home or business. Stay informed, stay safe, and prioritize a secure environment for everyone involved.

The Dangers of Space Heaters and How to Use Them Safely: Protect Your Home and Family

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

Space heaters can provide much-needed warmth during the colder months, but they also pose significant risks if not used properly. In this blog, we will explore the dangers associated with space heaters and provide essential tips on how to use them safely, ensuring the well-being of your home and family.

Fire Hazards 

Space heaters are a common cause of household fires. The heating elements in these devices can become extremely hot, posing a fire risk if they come in contact with flammable materials. Keep space heaters at least three feet away from curtains, furniture, bedding, and other combustible items. Avoid using extension cords with space heaters, as they can overheat and cause a fire. Additionally, never leave a space heater unattended and turn it off when you leave the room or go to sleep.

Electrical Hazards 

Electrical hazards associated with space heaters include faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and damaged cords. Before using a space heater, inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. Ensure that the heater has been certified by a recognized testing laboratory for safety. Never plug a space heater into an extension cord or power strip, as it can overheat and potentially cause a fire. Plug the heater directly into a wall outlet and avoid overloading the circuit by using multiple high-wattage appliances on the same circuit.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning 

Space heaters that use fossil fuels, such as kerosene or propane, can emit carbon monoxide, a silent and deadly gas. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, only use space heaters that are specifically designed for indoor use and have proper ventilation. Ensure that the room is adequately ventilated by opening a window or door while using the heater. Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home and regularly check their batteries to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Safety Precautions

To use space heaters safely, follow these precautions: choose a space heater with safety features such as tip-over and overheat protection, which automatically shut off the heater if it is knocked over or becomes too hot. Place the heater on a level, non-flammable surface and keep it out of reach of children and pets. Never use a space heater in a wet or damp area, such as a bathroom. Regularly clean and maintain your space heater according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure that smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are installed and working properly in your home.

Know When to Replace and Retire

It's essential to know when to replace or retire your space heater to ensure continued safety. Over time, space heaters can become worn out and less efficient, increasing the risk of malfunctions and hazards. Regularly inspect your heater for any signs of deterioration, such as damaged cords, loose parts, or unusual noises. If your space heater is outdated or doesn't meet the current safety standards, consider investing in a new one with updated safety features. Additionally, be mindful of the overall condition and performance of your heater to prevent any potential dangers and prioritize the well-being of your household.

While space heaters can be handy sources of warmth, they also present potential hazards. By understanding the dangers associated with space heaters and following safety guidelines, you can use them in your home while minimizing the risk of fires, electrical hazards, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Prioritize the safety of your home and family by using space heaters responsibly and ensuring their proper maintenance.

Leading causes of Home Fires. Stay Informed and Stay Safe

8/9/2023 (Permalink)

Home fires can be devastating, causing not only property damage but also posing a significant risk to the lives of you and your loved ones. Understanding the leading causes of home fires is essential for prevention and ensuring the safety of your home. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most common causes of home fires and provide tips on how to prevent them.

Cooking Accidents

Cooking is a common activity in every household, making it one of the leading causes of home fires. Unattended cooking, grease fires, and misuse of cooking equipment can all lead to a dangerous situation. To prevent cooking-related fires, never leave the kitchen unattended while cooking, ensure that flammable items are kept away from heat sources, and have a fire extinguisher readily accessible.

Heating Equipment

Heating equipment, including space heaters, chimneys, and furnaces, accounts for a significant number of home fires. Improper use, lack of maintenance, or malfunctioning equipment can lead to fires. To avoid heating-related fires, make sure to follow manufacturer instructions, keep flammable items away from heating sources, and have your heating equipment inspected regularly.

Electrical Malfunctions

Faulty electrical wiring, overloaded circuits, and misused electrical equipment all contribute to electrical fires. It's important to have your electrical system regularly inspected by a professional to ensure its safety. Avoid overloading outlets, use proper extension cords, and replace damaged cords or appliances promptly to reduce the risk of electrical fires.

Smoking

Smoking materials, such as cigarettes, cigars, and pipes, are a leading cause of fatal home fires. Smoking inside, falling asleep with lit cigarettes, and improperly disposing of smoking materials can all result in a fire. To prevent smoking-related fires, avoid smoking indoors, use deep ashtrays, ensure proper extinguishment of smoking materials, and never smoke under the influence of medication or alcohol.

Candles

Candles may create a cozy atmosphere, but they can also present a fire hazard if not used safely. Never leave candles unattended, keep them away from flammable items, use sturdy candle holders, and consider using flameless alternatives, such as battery-operated candles or wax warmers.

Flammable Liquids

Storing flammable liquids improperly can lead to catastrophic fires. Keep flammable liquids in designated containers, away from heat sources, and in well-ventilated areas. Follow storage and handling instructions carefully to prevent accidents.

Candles may create a warm and inviting atmosphere, but if not used with caution, they can quickly become a fire risk. Always keep candles within sight, away from flammable materials, and extinguish them before leaving the room or going to sleep.

Faulty or Misused Appliances

Appliances that are defective, damaged, or misused can be fire hazards. Regularly inspect your appliances for any signs of wear or damage, and follow manufacturer instructions for proper use and maintenance.

Awareness and prevention are key to reducing the risk of home fires. By understanding the leading causes of home fires and implementing safety measures, you can protect your home and loved ones. Stay vigilant, practice fire safety habits, and consider installing smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in key areas of your home. Remember, fire prevention starts with you.

Restoring Your Life: The Importance of Content Cleaning in the Aftermath of Fire Damage

5/6/2023 (Permalink)

As a homeowner or business owner, one of the most devastating things that can happen to your property is a fire. In addition to the physical damage caused by the flames, smoke and soot can also wreak havoc on your space. After the fire has been put out and everyone is safe, the next step is to begin the process of cleaning up and restoring your property. One crucial step in this process is content cleaning.

What is content cleaning?

Content cleaning is the process of cleaning and restoring the personal belongings and other contents of a property that have been affected by fire damage. This can include everything from furniture and electronics to clothing and other sentimental items. The goal of content cleaning is to salvage as many items as possible and return them to their pre-fire condition.

Assess the Damage

The first step in content cleaning is to assess the damage and determine which items are salvageable. This is typically done by a professional restoration company, who will inspect each item and determine the best course of action. Items that are severely damaged may need to be disposed of, while others can be restored through cleaning and other techniques.

Clean and Restore

Once the items have been assessed, the next step is to clean and restore them. This can involve a variety of techniques, including dry cleaning, wet cleaning, and specialized treatments for electronics and other sensitive items. The restoration company will work carefully to ensure that each item is cleaned and restored to the best of their ability.

It's important to note that content cleaning is not just about salvaging personal belongings. It's also a vital step in the overall restoration process. Smoke and soot can penetrate deep into walls, floors, and other surfaces, and can continue to cause damage if not properly cleaned. By thoroughly cleaning and restoring all contents of the property, restoration companies can ensure that no trace of smoke or soot remains.

Restore Property

In addition to content cleaning, there are other steps that can be taken to restore a property after fire damage. This can include structural repairs, odor removal, and mold remediation. It's important to work with a professional restoration company that has experience in all aspects of fire damage restoration to ensure that your property is restored to its pre-fire condition.

In conclusion, content cleaning is a crucial step in the process of restoring a property after fire damage. By carefully assessing and restoring personal belongings and other contents, restoration companies can ensure that no trace of smoke or soot remains, and that the property is fully restored to its pre-fire condition. If you've experienced fire damage, it's important to work with a professional restoration company to ensure that your property is properly restored and that you can get back to your normal life as quickly as possible.

How to Limit Business Interruption When Facing Smoke Damage

12/20/2022 (Permalink)

Fires are unpredictable, but there are many things that we can do to prepare for them and minimize the damage.

How to Limit Business Interruption When Facing Smoke Damage

While fires are unpredictable, there are many things that we can do to prepare for them and minimize the damage. Fires in businesses can have a significant impact on your bottom line, so it's important to know what steps you need to take if it happens to you.

Determine the extent of your business interruption

When it comes to property insurance, many people associate business interruption coverage with a company's ability to replace lost income incurred from a fire or storm. But that's not what business interruption is. To be clear, business interruption insurance is an optional coverage that pays for lost profits caused by an insured event — like a fire or storm — and allows you to keep your doors open while you rebuild or repair the damage.

For example: say you run a restaurant and your stove catches on fire. Your business will have no way of making money until repairs are made and equipment replaced. Similarly, if there's enough smoke damage in your office building that it needs extensive cleaning before employees can return safely, this would also qualify as “business interruption” since no one will be able to work until after repairs are finished and workers can return safely.

Get in touch with a public adjuster

If you don't have a public adjuster and want to hire one, it can be hard to know where to start. A good first step is going online and searching for "public adjuster" in your region. You don't have to narrow down this search by city or state—just look for the term itself.

Once you've found a few public adjusters who seem appropriate, call them up and ask some questions: How long have they been doing business? What kind of clients do they work with? Do they specialize in smoke damage? How much does their service cost?

Contact your insurance company

It's important to understand that insurance companies are not. In fact, they can be very good at what they do. As such, it's vital that you contact your insurance company as soon as possible so that they know what happened and can help get things moving in the right direction.

Your first step here is to call them up and get a claim number. The sooner you have this information, the better off we'll be. Once you've gathered all your facts together, we'll need to determine whether or not it makes sense for us to file an actual insurance claim against our policy (which may entail more paperwork).

There are steps you can take to make sure your business interruption is limited after suffering smoke damage.

It is important to understand that your business interruption is a separate issue from the fire itself. You may be able to file for first-party coverage for property damage, but there will likely be limits on the amount of money you can recover for lost revenue and other expenses that result from smoke damage.

If your business has been damaged by a fire, you may be concerned with how long it will take to get it back up and running, and how much that downtime will cost.

When a fire hits your business, you’re going to want to get back up and running as soon as possible. You aren’t alone in this sentiment—the longer your facility is shuttered, the more it costs you in lost revenue and other ways. That said, there are ways to minimize these losses if you encounter smoke damage in your business. 

Be prepared before a disaster strikes.

One of the best things you can do to limit business interruption when facing smoke damage is to be prepared before a disaster strikes. Take time to understand and prepare for what could happen in your workplace, and you'll be better equipped to deal with any situation that arises.

For example: Having a fire plan can help prevent injury or death from fire and smoke exposure. You'll also want to make sure that you have fire extinguishers throughout the building, as well as smoke alarms installed (and tested) in every room throughout your workspace — this will alert people before they're exposed and give them time to get out safely if there's an emergency.

Another important thing is making sure that everyone knows where the nearest exit is located, so they know exactly where they need to go if there's ever any kind of problem with smoke or other hazardous materials in their area or building itself; having an escape ladder available just outside each floor makes this much easier because it means less walking distance needed once someone has been alerted about what's happening at hand! Finally: a good business interruption policy ensures everything runs smoothly during times like these when some unexpected event occurs like this one did earlier today.

Fires are unpredictable, but there are many things that we can do to prepare for them and minimize the damage.

Fires are unpredictable, but there are many things that we can do to prepare for them and minimize the damage.

You should have a fire plan in place. The plan should include:

• A list of exit routes from your building and all rooms within it, including emergency exits and stairwells.
• Where to look for all exits in case you need to use them in an emergency.
• Locations of any fire extinguishers in the building, as well as how to use them properly.

You should also have a fire alarm system installed, which will alert people when there is smoke, or heat detected inside your business premises, so they know it's time to evacuate immediately. It's important that everyone knows what their role is during an evacuation because confusion during an emergency could lead to injury or worse! You should hold regular drills, so employees know how quickly they need move when an alarm sounds.

If you’ve suffered smoke damage to your business, it can be overwhelming. You may not know where to start or what steps to take next. But don’t worry — we’ve got you covered. We want to make sure that your business is back up and running as quickly as possible after a fire has hit so that no one loses money and time spent trying to repair the damage.

Understanding the Process of Fire Damage Restoration

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Herriman, UT.

Fire Damage Restoration Process

Nothing compares to the devastation a family feels witnessing the aftermath of a residential fire. While emergency services can ensure the safety of the family, they cannot protect the belongings that hold sentimental value. A fire restoration service in Herriman, UT, has a greater chance of recovering contents of emotional value, and it does so through the salvage and restoration process, in five steps.

1. Emergency Assessment
Most restoration services will have a 24/7 emergency contact line. Once reached, the service will send out a project manager to assess the scene. These professionals will inspect structural integrity and devise a safe and effective recovery plan.

2. Water Removal
Because of fire hoses, fire restorations often require significant water removal, and the damage cleaning will involve some tasks typically reserved for water disasters. For example, before the fire cleaning can commence, a restoration crew will need to use pumps or shop vacuums to remove excess water. The team will often follow this up with dehumidifiers and air movers to dry out the house.

3. Debris Removal and Inventory
While a recovery team will remove obvious trash - those items beyond repair - they will also take care to set aside anything that is salvageable or could hold sentimental value. Fire restoration is not only about rebuilding a structure; it is about maintaining memories and the sense of home.

4. Smoke and Soot Cleaning
People often make the mistake of believing that smoke damage only occurs on the surface of objects. However, smoke and soot will often make their way into the cracks, crevices, and nooks-and-crannies of appliances, computers, furniture, and so much more. Experienced restoration specialists will take the necessary time, using disinfectants and commercial cleaners, to ensure no smoke residue remains in your home.

5. Restoration
With all the cleaning complete, the restoration crew can resecure the structure and get the house ready for occupancy. All finishes will be restored, and the home will look like nothing ever happened.
Nothing can prepare a family for the devastation of a residential fire. While the sight is enough to leave anyone feeling hopeless, don't give up. Fire restoration seems miraculous with a trusted service.

Be Ready for Water Damage After a Fire

5/30/2022 (Permalink)

When your business suffers water damage after a fire, our team at SERVPRO is ready to help you and has the right equipment for drying.

Prepare For Water Damage Following A Fire

Businesses in Murray, UT, that have a fire break out have to deal with much more than fire damage. Even to extinguish the flames of a small fire, the fire hose used will unleash thousands of gallons of water that may easily lead to additional damage if not taken care of immediately.

Water Damage Expectations

A key issue with unwanted water is mold, which can start to grow within 48 hours. Items prone to welcoming this growth include:

• Ceiling panels
  
• Drywall
  
• Flooring
  
• Carpet
  
• Drapes
  
• Wood furniture
  
• Paper
  
• Permeable items

The key to avoiding mold from growing is getting any affected items dried out as quickly as possible, which isn't always easy since water may easily be lurking in hidden areas. Considering that a fire means tackling multiple forms of damage, that process can be difficult to handle on your own.

Contact a One-Stop Shop

Stay focused on getting your business back to normal operations by contacting a professional water and fire damage restoration company. A certified company will have the expertise, tools and processes in place to handle the different types of damage. After a professional arrives, below are a few things you can expect to happen:

• Water will be extracted using industrial-grade equipment.
  
• Industrial fans and other drying equipment are set up to dry out the building.
  
• The remaining moisture is removed with dehumidifiers.
  
• The property will be inspected for mold and a mitigation plan will be established if any is found.
  
• Any affected items and areas will be thoroughly sanitized.
  
• Restoration is the final step, which may include replacing unsalvageable items.

While no business wants to deal with fire damage, fires are more common than people may think. A fire also means dealing with water issues and smoke. Contacting a specialist that can handle all types of damage makes getting back to normal faster and easier.

5 Steps To Take After a Business Fire

5/22/2022 (Permalink)

Our disaster recovery team is ready for any fire damage in your business. Call us! You won't regret it!

After A Business Fire, Follow These 5 Steps

The aftermath of a fire in your Draper, UT, business often brings chaos and frustration. To ensure timely fire restoration, below are five steps to take once the flames are out.

1. Turn Off Utilities

Safety should also come first. Once the property is deemed safe to enter, it is recommended to turn off the gas, electricity and water as a precaution. An inspection should be completed before they are turned on again.

2. File a Fire Insurance Claim

The sooner a claim is filed, the faster you get your business back on track. Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to speed up the process and maximize your claim.

3. Document Everything

While you shouldn’t move anything until the insurance adjuster arrives, you should document the damage. This includes taking photos and videos of the affected items and areas. If possible, gather any receipts or other documents to provide to the insurance company. During the fire restoration process, keep track of additional expenses incurred.

4. Prevent Secondary Damage

Although all policies may be different, they will include necessary protocols to minimize the damage. The claim will only cover damage from the fire. If the property isn’t properly secured, such as tarping a roof hole or boarding up broken windows, damage caused by weather or vandals will not be covered.

5. Get Professional Help

Along with damage from the fire, there will also be smoke and water damage. A professional fire damage restoration will have the expertise and equipment to handle smoke cleaning, mold remediation and soot cleanup, as well as provide the repair and restoration services to get your business back to preloss condition.

Although a fire may be a trying time, keeping a clear head and taking the steps above are key ways to get on the path to fire restoration quickly.

3 Tips for Preventing a Space Heater Fire

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

3 Ways To Avoid A Space Heater Fire

Does your home in South Jordan, UT, have a space heater? Being responsible for more than 40% of heater fires, a burned space heater is a common culprit that many fire cleanup specialists see often. There are many easy ways to stay safe with one of these fixtures in your home.

1. Leave Space

It's called a space heater because it's designed to heat space, not your curtains. In addition to keeping your heater away from any fabrics or other flammables, be sure to inform your children about the dangers of leaving objects near them. Plastic toys melt if left close by a heater for a long time. If you have pets, take steps to ensure that they won't knock over the heater or otherwise harm themselves accidentally.

2. Keep It Clean

Another common cause of a burned space heater is a clogged filter. Though not all units come with one, it's important to clean it regularly if yours does. Different cleaning measures are recommended based on the manufacturer's instructions. If you lost your manual, check online for a pdf of it or look on your unit for a phone number to call. No matter what, be sure that you never clean your filter with any type of alcohol or scented aerosol spray as both are extremely flammable. The smoke cleanup from that is a hassle that you don't want to deal with.

3. Set a Timer

We all forget things every once in a while, but it's important that you don't forget to turn off your space heater. While some units come with a timer, most don't. If yours doesn't, try setting a timer on your phone, microwave, or oven. Additionally, if your home has a smart assistant, consider using wall plug accessories to automatically shut off your unit.

With some knowledge, it's certain that your home won't be affected by a burned space heater anytime soon.

How to do a fire damage estimate

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

How To Calculate Fire Damage

Fire damage is the fourth most common type of small business claim and the third most costly, according to The Hartford. The average insurance claim total is $35,000. There are several factors to consider when making an estimate of damage to a commercial structure in South Jordan, UT.

Extent of Damage

A minor fire will likely to cost less to restore than a major disaster. A property owner may want to consider:

• How many square feet of a structure are damaged
• Whether adjacent businesses or buildings have sustained damage
• The condition of building materials and contents

Cleanup and restoration costs will be higher if most of a building is damaged or a fire has affected neighboring properties. It may not be necessary to file a claim if a small fire was extinguished before spreading.

Cleaning Costs

A commercial fire cleaning service has the expertise and equipment necessary to quickly clean up and restore damage. Professional cleaning may allow for a shorter interruption in business. Most commercial property insurance policies cover restoration services.

Repair or Replacement

The amount of building materials and contents that can be cleaned or repaired or which must be disposed of and replaced also impacts the overall cost of fire restoration. Gather proof of purchase when making an estimate and ensure your policy covers replacement costs.

Duration of Interruption

The longer a business is closed due to fire, the more revenue will be lost. An interruption rider on a commercial insurance policy can be applied to:

• Continued expenses
• Loss of revenue
• Temporary relocation costs

Damage restoration can take weeks. Check policy limits to make sure that sufficient coverage is available. It may be possible to avoid filing an interruption claim if a business can operate out of another part of the affected structure or a temporary location.

These guidelines can be helpful in making preliminary calculations. Property owners should also obtain an estimate from a fire damage cleanup and restoration company in South Jordan, UT.