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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts

Restoring Your Home After a Fire

10/5/2022 (Permalink)

Many methods are used when restoring a home after a fire. Contact SERVPRO right away and let our expertise work for you.

How Do You Restore a House After a Fire

Having your home and belongings damaged by a fire can be devastating for everyone involved. However, by getting content cleaning and fire restoration services on the job right away and investing in a few things like dry-cleaning and content storage, you can help to bring your home back to its former glory. There are a few steps you should follow to get everything on track for recovery:

  • Getting in touch with your insurance company
  • Locating a reliable fire and smoke cleanup crew
  • Finding a storage space for undamaged belongings

Contacting Insurance

After dealing with emergency services, your insurance company should be the first call you make. Your insurance professionals can help estimate how much your repairs will cost and direct you to fire cleaning professionals who are covered by your homeowners insurance. This can help you get the financial support you need during the recovery process.

Choosing Your Crew

While your insurance company will likely suggest and endorse a number of cleanup crews, it’s ultimately up to you to decide who you want to trust with your home content cleaning. Do your research and find a company that has a reputation for getting the job done right and for following up on their results after you’re settled back into your home.

Finding Storage Solutions

During your cleanup process, crews are likely to use machines and chemicals that rid your home of smoke smells. It’s always a good idea to move undamaged belongings into a storage unit until your home is completely repaired to protect them from dust, debris, and even water from damaged roofing or pipes. Dry cleaning may be appropriate for some minimally damaged belongings.

Between dry-cleaning, working with insurance agents and all of the other steps of content cleaning after a fire, the home recovery process can be a long one. However, it’s well worth it to feel safe and secure in your own home again.

Why SERVPRO for Fire Damage Restoration

10/5/2022 (Permalink)

A fire is scary enough, do not tackle the damage on your own. Call SERVPRO of Paris we want to help.

Why SERVPRO for Fire Damage Restoration

A fire in your residence can be an overwhelming experience. Often ignited by an accident or failure to monitor a common household task like cooking or a decorating decision like lighted candles, the blaze is unexpected. The homeowner or family members can feel incapacitated in the aftermath with fear or even guilt. Our professional fire restoration crews manage the damage and set your mind at ease.

The extent of and variations in the fire damage to your dwelling can be daunting. Your instincts and reliance on other cleanup experiences do not provide the foundation needed to mitigate the damage appropriately. Charring, smoke, and soot damage require specialized techniques, tools, and products for the best outcomes. Fire extinguishing also leaves most homes soaked in water and chemicals. This complex mix of challenges requires our broad spectrum of disaster restoration training and skills.

Water & Fire Damage Restoration

Our production team leads arrive ready to assess and plan for all aspects of the damage. Water removal and structural drying precedes other tasks for safety and to prevent secondary issues such as microbial growth. Then the SERVPRO team focuses on cleaning the residues left by the fire.

If the fire burned, fast and hot, loose and ashy debris is typical, frequent when the fire ignites paper or other quickly burning items. Fires in the kitchen are often protein-based, leaving a sticky, almost lacquer-like substance on surfaces. Electrical shorts and oily rags or other slower burning fires combust incompletely, spreading a dark, thick, and sticky soot. SERVPRO crews evaluate the characteristics of the residues and match tools and products to the particular circumstances of your home fire.

Ash and light soot respond well to brushing with dry sponges and vacuuming with HEPA fitted equipment. The hardened leavings of a kitchen fire can require solvents or other bond-dissolving cleaners. After electrical and other slower burns, heavy coatings benefit from cleaning products containing wetting agents and surfactants that loosen and lift the heavy soot. SERVPRO technicians train extensively in methods that allow for effective abrasive actions without permanent damage to the surfaces treated when the soot adheres firmly.

We work fast but professionally, the speed necessary because the acidic residues from a fire progressively damage all building materials and your prized possessions. SERVPRO also packs out fire damaged movable items to clean and restore off-site. We also offer deodorization services that eliminate, not cover up, fire-related smells. All the tasks take time, most efficiently done by our team of fire damage specialists. 

Take the first steps to restore your home to “Like it never even happened.” Engage the services of SERVPRO of Paris. Call (903) 784-2700 immediately after the firefighters leave to get the process moving.

Cooking Fires

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

Cooking is the main cause for home fires and injuries.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking is the main cause for home fires and injuries, with Thanksgiving and Christmas being the peak days for cooking-related fires.  Review the following safety tips to help ensure you enjoy a safe holiday.

  • Do not wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
  • Never leave cooking food unattended- stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food.  If someone must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, they should turn off the stove.
  • Check food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking.  Use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on.
  • Keep the kids away from the cooking area.  Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.
  • Keep anything flammable- pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains- away from the stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.
  • Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
  • Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen.  Contact the local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.
  • Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.
  • Install a smoke alarm near the kitchen, on each level of the home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms.  Use the test button to check it each month.  Replace all batteries at least once a year. 

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paris has the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.

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 Paris 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.

Happy Independence Day From SERVPRO!

7/4/2022 (Permalink)

Happy 4th of July from SERVPRO of Paris!

With 4th of July coming up we know everyone is excited to get out and celebrate!

We know summer is filled with backyard barbecues, parades, and fireworks displays, but did you know that more fires are reported on the 4th of July than any other day of the year?

Each year, fireworks cause on average 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires and nearly 17,000 other fires, including grass fires, explosions, and even people have been engulfed in flames during a seemingly innocent childhood tradition.

Before preparing your personal fireworks display, check which fireworks are legal in your area and that there is no burn-ban in affect.

Below is a list of fireworks that may be legal for purchase in your area:

  • Sparklers
  • Bottle Rockets
  • Firecrackers (Fireworks designed to explode on the ground.)
  • Roman Candles

Fireworks Safety Tips

SERVPRO is on call 24/7 for emergency fire damages, but of course, we would rather you avoid the fire hazard all together for your safety and those around you! Check out what the pro’s have to say about using fireworks safely:

  • NEVER use fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Do not allow young children to handle fireworks. Have an adult supervise them closely and light the fireworks for them.
  • NEVER light fireworks indoors, not even sparklers! People often do not realize that common sparklers burn around 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals.
  • Do not try to re-light or handle fireworks that did not ignite properly. It may seem like a “dud”, but the malfunction could cause an explosion you are not prepared for.
  • Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that have malfunctioned or have been used before discarding them in a trashcan.
  • When lighting a firework, do not place your head or body over the projectile.

Suffer a Fire Damage?

SERVPRO offers 24 hours service for any emergency. For more information on SERVPRO Fire Damage Repair and Restoration services, give us a call at 903-784-2700

Have a happy and safe 4th of July from SERVPRO of Paris!

The Potential Causes for Electrical Fires

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

Most electrical fires are caused by faulty electrical outlets and or old, outdated appliances.

Most electrical fires are caused by faulty electrical outlets and or old, outdated appliances. The following are the most common reasons why electrical fires happen:

  1. Old electrical sockets and unsafe appliances

Appliances that are old and overused and those that fall short of modern safety standards are the worst culprits. Frayed electrical cords, self-jointed wires, and worn out sockets that are not properly grounded are major causes of fires. They become ready outlets for directing heat and fire to carpets, rugs, curtains and combustible plastic. Older appliances draw more power than the wall sockets can handle.

  1. Using light fixtures that exceed the permissible wattage

A very common cause of fires is plugging lights, lighting appliances and bulbs into electrical sockets that cannot handle higher wattage levels. Antique lighting appliances may have defective wiring that makes the appliance unstable by overheating. Decorating lights with colored paper and cloth shades can increase the risk of fire when the material or fabric heats up.

  1. Using multiple appliances plugged into an extension cord

Unrestricted use of extension cords is a major fire hazard. The risk of fire increases when your TV, home theatre, computer and other appliances are all plugged into a single extension cord. This creates excessive power load on a single socket which may not be designed to handle that load.  So, there is a social and economic cost to damaged wiring!

  1. Locating portable heaters near combustible materials

Portable space heaters that use coils are potentially dangerous when they are positioned carelessly near curtains and rugs and adjacent to beds and cloth covered furniture. The chances of inflammable material coming into contact with the red-hot coils increase the risk of fire.

  1. Wiring that becomes defective with the passage of time

Over a period of time you add more electrical appliances such as wide screen televisions, home theatre, microwave oven, refrigerator and air conditioners. The outdated home wiring cannot handle the increased power load. Older wiring tends to heat up quickly and catches fire. If the breaker boxes are themselves defective, they cannot prevent overheated electrical panels from catching fire.

Happy Independence Day From SERVPRO!

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

With 4th of July coming up we know everyone is excited to get out and celebrate! We know summer is filled with backyard barbecues, parades, and fireworks displays, but did you know that more fires are reported on the 4th of July than any other day of the year?

Each year, fireworks cause on average 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires and nearly 17,000 other fires, including grass fires, explosions, and even people have been engulfed in flames during a seemingly innocent childhood tradition.

Before preparing your personal fireworks display, check which fireworks are legal in your area and that there is no burn-ban in affect.

Below is a list of fireworks that may be legal for purchase in your area:

  • Sparklers
  • Bottle Rockets
  • Firecrackers (Fireworks designed to explode on the ground.)
  • Roman Candles

Fireworks Safety Tips

SERVPRO is on call 24/7 for emergency fire damages, but of course, we would rather you avoid the fire hazard all together for your safety and those around you! Check out what the pro’s have to say about using fireworks safely:

  • NEVER use fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Do not allow young children to handle fireworks. Have an adult supervise them closely and light the fireworks for them.
  • NEVER light fireworks indoors, not even sparklers! People often do not realize that common sparklers burn around 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals.
  • Do not try to re-light or handle fireworks that did not ignite properly. It may seem like a “dud”, but the malfunction could cause an explosion you are not prepared for.
  • Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that have malfunctioned or have been used before discarding them in a trashcan.
  • When lighting a firework, do not place your head or body over the projectile.

Suffer a Fire Damage?

SERVPRO offers 24 hours service for any emergency. For more information on SERVPRO Fire Damage Repair and Restoration services, give us a call at 903-784-2700

Have a happy and safe 4th of July from SERVPRO of Paris!

5 Great Ways to Prevent House Fires

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

  1. Avoid Leaving the Kitchen

Fires can start very quickly! This is why you should never leave cooking food unattended. If you have to leave the kitchen for any reason, make sure everything is properly turned off!

  1. Check Your Dryer

Don’t forget to clean out your lint trap every time you put in a new load of laundry. This is one of the most common reasons for fires in the house.

  1. Watch out for Candles

Everyone loves scented candles, especially around the holidays – but if you don’t use them carefully, they could cause a fire. Make sure you put them out before you exit a room and keep them far away from blankets, pets, or other flammable objects.

  1. Fireplace Safety

You don’t want any stray sparks to escape so you need to make sure you have a door between the flames and your flooring. It goes without saying, but never leave the room when the fireplace is going.

  1. Fire Extinguishers First

Fire extinguishers are the first thing you should reach for when a fire breaks out. You want to make sure you have one in every room that is a potential threat, such as the kitchen.

Fall and Fire

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

This fall season brings us cooler temperatures, beautiful colors and several outdoor activities.  Plan ahead this season to help ensure it is safe and fire free.

  • Fall decorations, like dried flowers and cornstalks are highly flammable.  Keep these and other decorations away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters. 
  • Keep emergency exits clear of decorations, so nothing blocks escape routes.
  • Teach children to stay away from open flames. Be sure they know how to stop, drop and roll if their clothing catches fire.
  • Remember safety first when choosing a Halloween costume.  Consider avoiding billowing fabric.  If you are making your costume, choose material that won't easily ignite if it comes into contact with heat or a flame.
  • It is safest to use flashlights or battery-operated candles in a jack-o-lantern.  Use extreme caution if using a real candle.  Place lit pumpkins away from anything than can burn, and out of the way of doorsteps, walkways and yards. 

Residual Damage from Fire!

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

When dealing with fire damage, there is more to be cleaned up than just what is affected by the flames. Soot and smoke the fire leaves behind can continue damaging property long after the flames are extinguished, and this can give rise to other issues such as mold and rust as well.

If left untreated, this damage can compound over time, becoming more difficult and costly to remediate.

What Untreated Fire Damage Can Cause

If you’ve been affected by a fire, it is important to call your restoration team right away to prevent giving rise to other issues such as:

Soot Damage. Soot is the most common form of carbon byproduct that materials produce when they burn. Most home and commercial fires consist of multiple burned materials, leading to soot that is highly acidic. This acid can cause damage to nearly any surface it comes into contact with, with porous or textured surfaces being the most at-risk. Any soot allowed to remain in the affected area can lead to damage of carpets, walls and unburnt portions of the house. The longer the soot is allowed to sit, the more unlikely the damage can be reversed.

Mold Damage. After a fire, affected areas are often left without any artificial or natural lighting. If the fire was doused with water or set off a sprinkler system, this creates mold’s ideal environment to thrive. Mold can quickly begin growth on almost any surface, leading to discoloration and damage to items and structures.

Corrosion and Rust Damage. Rust and corrosion might not be the first thing you think of when you consider fire damage, but water left untreated on small electronics can cause it to develop and greatly increase the risk for short-circuits or electrical shock.

If you’ve been affected by a fire, know that SERVPRO of Paris meets all the qualifications and more to make your home safe and back to normal. Contact us today to learn how we’re able to make it “Like it never even happened.”

The Importance of Properly Working Smoke Detectors in Your Home

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

The Importance of Properly Working Smoke Detectors in Your Home

The importance of smoke detectors in preventing fire damage cannot be overemphasized. Unfortunately, too many people overlook their significance even amidst the rising cases of fire disasters in our homes. In fact, while an impressive 90 percent of all homeowners in the country have installed a smoke alarm in their houses, up to 30 percent of them do not function when needed.

At SERVPRO of Paris, we receive numerous fire damage reports that could have been avoided by using smoke detectors. Thankfully, we have a team of highly skilled and highly trained restoration experts certified by the IICRC that are quick to respond to any emergency. Our tools and equipment are up to par with industry standards, ensuring that the restoration process goes smoothly and efficiently.

If the house is structurally sound, the heat and flames usually self-extinguish after consuming all existing combustibles. However, if the wall and ceiling fire resistance is inadequate, the fire can spread into adjacent rooms and begin the process over again. If it is not controlled, the fire can lead to complete destruction of the building and its contents.

Proper installation and maintenance is the answer to reducing the impact of fire damage with smoke alarms. A licensed professional should install the device on every level of your house, as well as the interior and exterior of each sleeping area. Avoid placing smoke detectors within 3 feet of a heating/air conditioning vent or ceiling fan, which can block the smoke from flowing to the device during a fire emergency.

SERVPRO franchise is particularly thorough when it comes to safety precautions. To ensure that your smoke alarm works at preventing extensive fire damage, you should test the device on a monthly basis, changing the batteries as needed. Additionally, make a point of replacing the entire smoke detector every ten years or so to guarantee efficiency.

You can tell when a smoke alarm is not working properly if it beeps slowly and consistently, indicating that you need a new one or the batteries are running low. Apart from beeping, most devices come with a "low battery" button that blinks when necessary. This is a clear warning that the unit may not do much to prevent fire damage.

Successful fire damage suppression is relatively dependent on a functional smoke detector. If your home sustains severe fire damage nonetheless, SERVPRO of Paris can arrive on time to salvage your property. For any emergency, call us today at (903)784-2700.  

Destroy Odors with Deodorization

6/19/2019 (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 (IICRC), SERVPRO® of Paris professionals provide specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO® of Paris professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the source of the odor. Once the source is found, SERVPRO’s own proprietary line of cleaning products is used to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts and more.

Ask SERVPRO® of Paris to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

If you or a customer suffer a fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services, contact SERVPRO® of Paris. Whether it’s 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.”

Where Do You Begin When You Need Fire Damage Repair?

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

About 380,000 people needed fire damage repair in their homes after an accidental or unintentional fire, according to the latest statistics from the U.S. Fire Administration. Cooking accidents, heating issues, and electrical malfunctions account for close to 70% of all residential home fires. If you need fire or smoke damage repairs in Paris or surrounding area, call a professional fire and smoke restoration specialist like SERVPRO of Paris

Fire Prevention

Removing fire damage, soot, and smoke from walls, ceilings, and floors is a not a simple task. Take the following steps to minimize the risk of fire and smoke damage to your home in the future.

  1. Electrical - Check and replace damaged electrical outlets, plugs, cords, and wires regularly and do not keep them covered or pinched against a wall. Avoid overloading your homes circuit system and use surge protectors rather than unprotected power strips.
  2. Kitchen – Often overlooked as part of a kitchen setup is the fire extinguisher. Keep one in close reach and prepare yourself to use it. Most ovens have a self-cleaning button; use it regularly to prevent buildup. Keep the stovetop clean to minimize grease fires.
  3. Appliances - A clothes dryer holds lint and many other appliances with a fan or motor suck in dust and other particles. Clear the filter of lint after each load and the dryer vent often. Clean under all appliances regularly to prevent buildup.
  4. Other fire causes include smoking, placing grills less than 10 feet away from your home, and children’s curiosity.

Even When the Fire is Contained Quickly the Smoke Damage can be Severe

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

While fires that are stopped before they have a chance to spread too far, the smoke damage can be severe. Smoke damage can be especially destructive and can happen very quickly. In many instances your property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts. We specialize in fire and water damage restoration; it’s the cornerstone of our business. We have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Besides the obvious advantage of lower costs, our “restore first” mentality also gets you back into your home or business quicker and with less disruption to your life.

When your home or business experiences fire or smoke damage, you need professional help quickly. SERVPRO of Paris is dedicated to responding immediately, which helps to prevent secondary damage and to reduce the cost of restoration. 903-784-2700

Dealing with Fire Damage in Your Home

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

The process involved will definitely differ depending on the severity and size of the fire and damage caused, as you can see in the image to your right this is quite severe fire damage. However the principles of fire damage restoration will for the most part be the same.

Like in most restoration projects the main goal you are trying to reach is preloss condition, that is you want your property to be restored back to how it was before the damages occurred; you want it to be safe, clean, free of smokey odors, and of course looking "Like it never even happened."

Now at this point we are going to assume that the fire has been put out, everybody is safe, and you are now looking at the damage caused and are wondering what to do next.

Before you start any work ensure that:

  • the property is structurally sound and is safe to re-enter
  • you have identified any safety hazards that may be present

As you re-enter the property you will want to get rid it of any lingering smoke and gasses that may still be present. You can do this by opening windows and doors and releasing them outside. In situations where there is a lot of smoke still lingering inside the property and you have neighbors close by then you will want to exhaust the air through an air filtration device (AFD). An AFD unit will process the air through a series of filters reducing its potency and potentially harmful contents.

Once you have taken care of these initial steps and are ready to assess what work needs to be done. You should be taking note of the two main types of possible damagethe obvious burnt and charred materials and the less obvious smoke and soot damage.

Now, you will need to make a decision whether to repair or replace the affected items or property. Any items or property that got burnt and charred will be easier to spot and will likely need replacement, if you are not sure on what to do with a certain item you should get it out of the property until your decision is made. As once we start the cleaning process we will want all burnt and charred materials out of the property.

Once all the burnt materials are out of the home you can start looking at what got damaged indirectly. It becomes trickier to decide whether to repair or to replace an item that has been affected by smoke and soot as the process can be difficult and costly.

Okay, so now you know the first few steps on how to get started on a fire damage restoration project. If your property has suffered a fire damage incident that is of a large scale or simply outside your comfort zone to handle yourself give SERVPRO of Paris a call at (903)784-2700

3 Resources to Help with Fire Prevention

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

Nobody wants their home to have a fire, but it happens virtually every day in North East Texas. Fortunately, fires can be prevented if precautions are taken, and these resources are dedicated to helping you do just that!

  1. org’s Fire Prevention Guide. This brief guide is a nice, short resource for homeowners. It features quotes from experts, fast facts, and a few fire prevention tips. It’s a great guide for anyone curious about fire prevention!
  2. gov’s Home Fire Page. Ready.gov is honestly a great resource for any disaster-based event. They provide helpful information that covers everything from before, during, and after a fire breaks out. Be sure to check out their other pages as well!
  3. NFPA’s Resource Page. The National Fire Prevention Association has plenty of resources on their website. They have fact sheets, community toolkits, and more! If you need to learn about fire prevention, this is the place to go.

At SERVPRO of Paris, we believe that fire prevention education is important in our communities. But if you do have a fire and need our assistance, you can call us any time at (903) 784-2700!

Fire in the house

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage is very devastating when the house or office you know and love go up in flames. The team at SERVPRO of Paris works day in and day out training and mastering the craft of the aftermath of a fire loss. When the loss occurs the team from SERVPRO will be on the site once the smoke clears and the fireman says its safe to go in. The team will then conduct a full scope of the structure to find problem areas. Once the problem areas have been defined the team will then put a scope of work together. Once the team begins the process in the matter of no time your home or office will look like new. The team will work day and night to make sure you are satisfied with the work the SERVPRO team has done. When you're in a jam call 903-784-2700!

Fire!

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

One of the most common causes of house fires is something you would never think as a possible danger. Thirty-two percent of all home fires and deaths related to those are caused by space heaters, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

With the cold that sets over the North East Texas area, some residents are using space heaters to try and keep their homes and garages warm during those cold nights. Having a space heater on while you sleep can put you and your family at extreme risk for a home fire. When a space heater is left unattended and is too close to flammable items, a massive fires can occur. Which can cause injury or even death to the occupants of the home.

Be safe and reduce your risk when using a space heater, as they can be a great addition to the home during those annoyingly cold months. Following safety precautions can reduces the risk of fire. Making sure your heater is on a flat surface, and is being used in proper area of the home and garage, can also reduce your risk of starting a house fire.

So we here at SERVPRO of Paris ask the wonderful members of our community to be responsible and think about all the risks that go along with having a home and living in the community. We are not only responsible for ourselves but also our neighbors and fellow community members.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

1/29/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

  • Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
  • Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
  • The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.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 Texarkana 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

  • Different Types of Smoke
  • 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 – 903-784-2700

How to Prevent a Kitchen Fire

1/29/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know the kitchen is where more home fires occur than anywhere else in the house and that cooking is the number one cause of home fires? The American Red Cross has steps everyone can follow to avoid a cooking fire:

  1. Never leave cooking food unattended – stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If you have to leave the kitchen, even for a second, turn off the stove.
  2. Check your food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking.
  3. Use a timer so you’ll remember that the stove or oven is on.
  4. Don’t wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
  5. Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.

To learn how to prevent a fire in your home and how to keep members of your household safe, you can take our cooking safety quiz and download the Red Cross Fire Prevention and Safety Checklist. Downloadable fact sheets are also available on how to avoid home heating fires, candle safety, proper use of smoke alarms and teaching your children what to do in the event of a fire. 

My House Caught on Fire, Now What?

1/29/2018 (Permalink)

Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have specialized fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet. 

In 2015, there were 1,345,500 fires reported in the United States. These fires caused 3,280 civilian deaths, 15,700 civilian injuries, and $14.3 billion in property damage. (National Fire Protection Association)

  • 501,500 were structure fires, causing 2,685 civilian deaths, 13,000 civilian injuries, and $10.3 billion in property damage.
  • 204,500 were vehicle fires, causing 500 civilian fire deaths, 1,875 civilian fire injuries, and $1.8 billion in property damage.
  • 639,500 were outside and other fires, causing 95 civilian fire deaths, 825 civilian fire injuries, and $252 million in property damage.   
  • The 2015 U.S. fire loss clock a fire department responded to a fire every 23 seconds. One structure fire was reported every 63 seconds.
  • One home structure fire was reported every 86 seconds.
  • One civilian fire injury was reported every 34 minutes.
  • One civilian fire death occurred every 2 hours and 40 minutes.
  • One outside and other fire was reported every 52 seconds.
  • One highway vehicle fire was reported every 3 minutes 1 seconds.

Fire Safety, Are You Prepared?

1/29/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know that if a fire starts in your home you may have as little as two minutes to escape? During a fire, early warning from a working smoke alarm plus a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives. Learn what else to do to keep your loved ones safe!

Top Tips for Fire Safety

  • Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
  • Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, change the batteries.
  • Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.
  • If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP.
  • Never go back inside for anything or anyone. 
  •  And after you’ve done all you can, executed your fire safety plan and the fire is put out, remember that SERVPRO is dedicated to responding immediately, day or night, to your home or business. A faster response helps to prevent secondary damage and to reduce cost.
  •  Tips from the American Red Cross <http://www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire>

EVERY YEAR, NFPA surveys a sample of public fire departments in the United States, stratified by the size of the community they protect, to project national estimates of the country’s fire problem. Based upon the data we received in response to our 2015 National Fire Experience Survey, we estimate that public fire departments in the U.S. responded to 1,345,500 fires last year, a highly significant increase of 3.7 percent from 2014.

How fire loss effects people and families

1/18/2017 (Permalink)

Residential fires can cause a significant amount of stress. Not only do people lose their homes, they lose things that mean a lot to them. Our homes provide us with shelter, comfort, and all around security. The things in our homes are usually completely lost or somewhat affected. This causes emotional distress and a hand full of other feelings. Children are also filled with a sense of loss. When parents or caregivers are under stress the whole family becomes overwhelmed. Some fires also cause physical injury and even death. You can become permanently disabled. This may mean you are not able to work at all. There are several stages of recovering from a major loss. Find a good support system. Family, friends, and neighbors. You can also be a great support for someone experiencing a loss. Fires can be small but not all fire calls are. Eventually you pick up the pieces and try to move forward. Always remember that a house is a home and losing it and the things you need can be very hard. Healing takes time.

 

Pros of fire sprinklers

1/10/2017 (Permalink)

Installed fire sprinkler

Reasons to invest in fire sprinkler systems



  • They add about 1% to the cost of a new home. This is about the same as the cost to upgrade carpeting.

  • They increase property value. 

  • The can lower your homeowners insurance.

  • They do not freeze up.

  • They can put out a house fire in 1 1/2 minutes.

  • They cause less damage to belongings.

  • Most of them can be concealed when not in use. 

  • Lowers the risk for injury and even death.


It gives you a sense of peace knowing that your family is more safe and secure. We all want our homes to be a place where we can be comfortable and at ease.Talk with others such as neighbors and friends about installing a system in there homes. Most people don't think about installing a fire sprinkler system as a safety measure but maybe it is time you and them to  reconsider this when thinking of a great investment for your home or business. 

Loss during the Holidays

12/13/2016 (Permalink)

     As most of us prepare for the holidays by putting up lights and making our Christmas wish list some families are digging through the ruins of what was their home. Disasters strike without warning. A family can lose everything in a matter of minutes. SERVPRO is there to help pick up the pieces. It is always good to have a community come together to help make the holidays a little easier after a loss. A family who has had a fire or water loss during this time will always need a good support system. If you know of anyway you can help someone when this happens go out and help. You could have a bake sale or reach out to friends and family even your church to lend a hand. You would be amazed at the support a community gives when something like this happens. We should all be very thankful for safety and others who care around the holidays. 

Holiday Reminder

11/17/2016 (Permalink)

We all want to celebrate our Christmas just like the Griswolds. It is frustrating enough that cousin Eddie is sleeping over. Help avoid an even bigger disaster by checking your home and Christmas décor for problems. The National Fire Protection Association says an average of 230  fires are attributed to Christmas trees each year. A dry tree, electrical lights and fuel supply (gifts) under the tree are hazards. Christmas tree fires cause an average of $18.3 million in property damage each year. It only takes a short time to be certain that Christmas will be a time of peace and comfort, Even if your Christmas bonus is a membership to the jelly of the month club. Please be sure your family is safe and happy for the holidays.