Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts
Fire Prevention Week: The Importance of Working Smoke Alarms in Chino?
10/7/2024 (Permalink)
We are trained and certified to restore fire damage in San Bernardino County.
Our local Chino/Chino Hills team joins with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to spread the word about smoke alarms during national Fire Awareness Month. Here are some tips for smoke and carbon monoxide alarm safety from the NFPA:
Smoke Alarms
- Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement.
- For the best protection, choose interconnected smoke alarms. When one sounds, they all sound.
- Test alarms at least once a month using the test button.
- Replace smoke alarms if they are over ten years old.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms
- Install CO alarms outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home. This includes the basement and attic. Do not place alarms near fireplaces or fuel-burning appliances. Check to see what the law is in your community for placement.
- Replace CO alarms between 5-10 years or as stated in the manufacturer’s instructions.
Make a Plan
Everyone in the home should know the sounds and signals of the smoke and CO alarms.
When the alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside. Have an outside meeting place to make sure that everyone gets out safely. Call 9-1-1 from outside your home from a mobile phone or a trusted neighbor’s phone.
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business has fire damage, our local Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 909-548-3191.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Top Causes of Wildfires in Sleepy Hollow, CA.?
9/3/2024 (Permalink)
We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in San Bernardino County.
Wildfires in California are a growing concern, with various factors contributing to their ignition and spread. Our local Chino/Chino Hills team wants everyone in Sleepy Hollow to know how to prevent and manage wildfire risk.
Human activity is a primary cause. This includes unattended campfires, discarded cigarettes, and equipment that generates sparks. Outdoor activities, such as barbecuing and fireworks, pose significant risks if not properly managed.
Electrical infrastructure is another major cause. Faulty power lines and equipment can ignite dry vegetation, leading to massive wildfires. For instance, the infamous 2018 Camp Fire was sparked by power lines, underscoring the critical need for utility companies to maintain and upgrade their infrastructure.
Arson, though less common, remains a concerning cause of wildfires. Intentional acts of setting fires can lead to devastating consequences, highlighting the need for vigilant law enforcement and community awareness to prevent such incidents.
Natural causes, while less frequent, still play a role. Lightning strikes in remote areas can ignite dry brush and forested regions, especially during periods of drought. Climate change exacerbates these conditions, creating an environment conducive to wildfires.
Finally, dry vegetation and forest debris accumulation can act as fuel. Effective forest management, including controlled burns and clearing excess vegetation, is essential to reduce this risk.
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business in Sleepy Hollow sustains fire damage, our local Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help®. Call us today at 909-548-3191.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Candle Fire Destroys Room in Fairfield Ranch Park Home?
8/27/2024 (Permalink)
We restore fire damage “Like it never even happened” in San Bernardino County.
Our local Chino/Chino Hills team is a leader in fire damage restoration services in Fairfield Ranch Park. Candles create warm ambiance and are used to celebrate special occasions, but they can start a fire if they are not properly monitored. Here are some tips for burning candles safely from the National Candle Association:
How to Burn a Candle Safely
Before Lighting:
- Before burning, always trim the wick to ¼ inch. You can use a wick trimmer, nail clippers, or scissors. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping or flaring.
- Keep the wax pool clear of wick trimmings, matches and debris at all times.
- Always use acandleholder specifically designed for candle use. It should be heat resistant, sturdy, and large enough to contain any drips or melted wax.
Burn candles in a well-ventilated room:
- Avoid drafts, vents or air currents. This will help prevent rapid or uneven burning, sooting, and excessive dripping.
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on burn time and proper use. In general, it is recommended that candles do not burn for longer than four hoursand cool for at least two hours before relighting.
- When lighting a candle, use long matchesor a long-reach lighter. Keep your hair and loose clothing away from the flame.
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business in Fairfield Ranch Park has a fire damage emergency, our local Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 909-548-3191.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Highly Flammable Trees and Vegetation to Avoid Planting in Chino Hills?
8/6/2024 (Permalink)
We are a top choice for wildfire restoration services in San Bernardino County.
Our local Chino/Chino Hills team responds to fire damage emergencies day and night, every day of the year. In Chino Hills, the risk of wildfires is a significant concern for homeowners. Selecting the proper vegetation for your property can help mitigate this risk. Some trees and plants are highly flammable and should be avoided to enhance fire safety.
Eucalyptus trees, for example, are notorious for their high oil content, making them highly flammable. When these trees catch fire, they create intense heat and rapidly spread flames. Similarly, conifers like pines and firs contain resin that can easily ignite.
Junipers can also pose a fire hazard due to their dense foliage and volatile oils. These shrubs can act as fire ladders, allowing flames to climb from the ground into the tree canopy, increasing the risk of a larger fire.
Instead, opt for fire-resistant plants and trees. Deciduous trees such as maples, oaks, and liquidambars have lower oil content and are less likely to ignite. Native plants like California lilac and manzanita can be good alternatives as they adapt to the local climate and are less prone to burning.
It is also crucial to maintain a defensible space by keeping vegetation well-trimmed and removing dead or dry plant material. By carefully choosing your landscaping, you can significantly reduce the wildfire risk to your home.
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business has a fire damage emergency, our local Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 909-548-3191.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Tackling a Malfunctioning Outdoor Propane Grill in Vellano?
7/30/2024 (Permalink)
We are leaders in fire damage restoration in San Bernardino County.
Our local Chino/Chino Hills team restores fire damage in Vellano “Like it never even happened.” For many people, the outdoor propane grill is a staple of summertime gatherings; however, when this appliance malfunctions, it can cause fire damage and personal injury.
One of the most pressing issues with outdoor propane grills is gas leaks. A gas leak can lead to a highly dangerous situation, with the potential for fire or explosion, whether due to worn-out hoses, loose connections, or faulty regulators.
Swift action is of utmost importance when dealing with a malfunctioning outdoor propane grill. Homeowners should take immediate steps to shut off the gas supply and refrain from using the grill until the issue is resolved. Professional inspection and repair are strongly advised to ensure the safe operation of the appliance and prevent further damage or accidents.
In the event of property damage, homeowners should enlist the assistance of our restoration technicians to assess and address the damage. Our highly trained team can provide comprehensive solutions to restore the affected area to preloss condition.
By swiftly and effectively addressing a malfunctioning outdoor propane grill, homeowners can mitigate the risk of property damage and ensure the safety of their outdoor living space. With professional assistance, they can enjoy summertime gatherings with peace of mind, knowing that their grill is in optimal working condition.
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business in Vellano has fire damage, our Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 909-548-3191.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Out of Control Fire Pit Fire Damages Home in El Prado?
7/23/2024 (Permalink)
We restore fire damage “Like it never even happened” in San Bernardino County.
SERVPRO® of Chino/Chino Hills is a trusted leader in fire damage restoration services in El Prado. Under the right conditions, burning embers can take flight and start fires as far away as a mile. Here are some tips for backyard fire pit safety:
Choose the Right Location: Place your fire pit at least 10 feet away from any structures, trees, or flammable materials. Ensure it's on a level, non-combustible surface like concrete or gravel.
Use a Fire Pit Screen: A mesh screen can prevent embers and sparks from escaping, reducing the risk of starting a fire outside the pit.
Clear the Area: Remove any dry leaves, branches, or other flammable materials within a 10-foot radius around your fire pit.
Monitor the Fire: Never leave the fire unattended.
Keep Water Nearby: Have a bucket of water, a hose, or a fire extinguisher close by in case of emergencies.
Burn Safe Materials: Only burn dry, seasoned wood. Avoid burning trash, leaves, or other materials that can produce excessive sparks or embers.
Control the Fire Size: Keep the fire manageable and avoid overloading the pit with too much wood.
Extinguish Properly: Fully extinguish the fire before leaving the area. Douse the fire with water, stir the ashes, and douse again until everything is cool to the touch.
Call Us Today!
When your El Prado home or commercial business has fire damage, our Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 909-548-3191.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Essential Steps to Prevent Wildfire Damage to Your Home in Chino Hills?
7/1/2024 (Permalink)
We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in San Bernardino County.
Our local Chino/Chino Hills team responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year in Chino Hills. Wildfires pose a threat to homes and communities, particularly in areas prone to dry, hot conditions. However, homeowners can take proactive measures to safeguard their property from the devastating effects of wildfires. Here are some crucial steps to enhance your home’s defenses against wildfires.
Create a defensible space: Maintain a minimum distance of 30 feet between your house and any flammable vegetation. This buffer zone should be clear of dead plants, leaves, and debris, which can easily ignite. Use non-combustible materials such as gravel, brick, or concrete in this area to further reduce fire risk.
Choose fire-resistant building materials: You can minimize the risk to your home’s exterior by selecting fire-resistant roofing, siding, and decking. Products like treated wood, metal, or composite materials offer greater resistance against fire and can be crucial in preventing fire from spreading.
Regularly clean out gutters and roofs: Cleat leaves and other debris that could catch embers. Install metal mesh screens over vents, eaves, and under decks to prevent embers from entering or gathering in hidden areas.
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business sustains fire damage, our Chino/Chino Hills team is always Here to Help. ® Call us today at 909-548-3191.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Tips for Preventing Winter Fires in Chino Hills Homes?
3/5/2024 (Permalink)
We are trained and certified to restore fire damage in San Bernardino County.
According to the National Fire Protection Association NFPA), more home fires occur in the winter than in any other season. Our local Chino/Chino Hills team responds to fire damage emergencies every year in Chino Hills and offers this information from the NFPA:
- Half of all home heating fires occur in winter.
- Heating equipment is involved in 1 in every 6 home fires and 1 in every home fire
- Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet from any heat source like fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators, or space heaters.
- Keep portable generators outside, away from windows, and as far away from your home as possible.
- Install and test carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month.
- Plug only 1 heat-producing appliance (like a space heater) into an electrical outlet at a time.
- Have a qualified professional clean and inspect your chimney and vents every year.
- Store cooled ashes in a tightly covered metal container and keep it outside at least 10 feet from your home and nearby buildings.
Call Us Today!
When your home or business has a fire damage emergency, our Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 909-548-3191.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Fire Prevention Safety Tips for Chino Hills Babysitters?
2/20/2024 (Permalink)
We are leaders in fire damage restoration in San Bernardino County.
If you use babysitters, they need to know how to respond if a fire breaks out in your home. Our local Chino/Chino Hills team offers these babysitting tips from the National Fire Protection Association:
Show the babysitter your home escape plan and make sure the babysitter understands:
- There are two ways out of every room
- Where the outdoor meeting place is located
- The fire department or emergency phone number
- The address of the home
- How to unlock all doors and windows
- Keep your child at least three feet away from the stove
- Keep your child at least three feet away from the microwave oven
- Never leave the room while cooking
- Keeps anything that can catch fire away from the stovetop
- Keeps pets off surfaces and countertops
- Get out of the home quickly with your child to safety when the smoke alarm sounds
- Use the second way out if smoke is in the way
- Get low and go under the smoke to the exit if an escape must be made through smoke
- Store matches and lighters out of your child’s reach
- Your babysitter should not use candles
- Make sure your babysitter keeps a three-foot “kid-free zone” around space heaters
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business is damaged by fire, our Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 909-548-3191.
SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.
Vellano Home Damaged in Recent Fire?
1/9/2024 (Permalink)
We are a top choice for fire damage restoration services in San Bernardino County.
Our local Chino/Chino Hills team restores fire-damaged homes and commercial businesses every year. Fires may break out in Vellano during the winter due to space heaters. Here are some of the reasons why space heaters catch fire:
Contact with Flammable Materials: Space heaters often have exposed heating elements or coils. If these elements come into direct contact with flammable items, they can quickly start a fire. For example, a curtain blowing against a space heater can catch fire.
Overheating: Some space heaters lack built-in safety features to prevent overheating. If the heater's internal components get too hot due to malfunction or a blocked airflow, it can lead to electrical fires.
Electrical Issues: Like any electrical appliance, space heaters can have electrical faults, such as damaged cords or faulty outlets.
Improper Use: Users may place space heaters too close to objects, obstruct the heater's airflow, or leave them unattended.
Old or Faulty Units: Aging or poorly maintained space heaters are more likely to malfunction and become fire hazards.
To reduce the risk of fire damage when using space heaters, follow safety guidelines such as maintaining a safe clearance from combustibles, using heaters with safety features (like tip-over switches and overheat protection), keeping cords and outlets in good condition, and never leaving a running space heater unattended.
Call Us Today!
When your home or business in Vellano needs fire damage restoration services, our Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 909-548-3191.
SERVPRO® franchise is independently owned and operated.
Ensuring Sweet Success: Baking Safety Tips from SERVPRO Team Brogdon for National Cookie Day
12/4/2023 (Permalink)
We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration services in San Bernardino County.
Happy National Cookie Day, baking enthusiasts! At SERVPRO® Team Brogdon in Chino, we're not just experts in disaster restoration – we're also passionate about keeping your home hazard-free during the festive baking season. As you gear up to create delightful treats, here are some essential baking safety tips to ensure your holiday baking is both merry and secure.
1. Perfect Timing for Perfect Treats
Setting timers is not just for professionals; it's a secret ingredient for home bakers too! Avoid over-baking and guarantee a perfect treat by keeping a close eye on your creations. Timers are your allies in the quest for the ideal cookie texture.
2. Clear the Culinary Clutter
A clutter-free kitchen is a safer kitchen. Before you embark on your baking adventure, clear away unnecessary items and create a spacious, organized workspace. This not only minimizes the risk of accidents but also makes the entire baking process more enjoyable.
3. Festive Protection: Gear Up!
Add a dash of festive spirit to your baking attire. Oven mitts and aprons aren't just for show – they're essential tools for keeping you safe from hot surfaces and unexpected spills. Plus, who says you can't look stylish while baking up a storm?
4. Safety, the Essential Ingredient
Test your smoke detectors – because safety should be the primary ingredient in every recipe. Ensure that your detectors are functioning correctly to provide an early warning in case of any unexpected culinary adventures. Safety is the key to a worry-free baking experience.
5. Never Leave the Kitchen Unattended
In the whirlwind of mixing, measuring, and baking, it's easy to get distracted. But here's a golden rule: never leave the kitchen unattended while the oven is in action. Stay vigilant, and you'll avoid potential mishaps, ensuring a smooth baking journey.
Baking Mishaps in Chino? SERVPRO Team Brogdon is Here to Help!
Explore our expert fire damage restoration services tailored for Chino residents. Discover how calling 909-548-3181 can connect you with our skilled team, ready to assist with any unexpected baking mishaps in Chino and ensuring a swift recovery.
Wishing You a Joyful and Safe Baking Experience
As you embark on your National Cookie Day baking adventures, let these safety tips be your guide. SERVPRO Team Brogdon wishes you a joyful, safe, and delicious baking experience. May your cookies be sweet, your kitchen be safe, and your holiday season be filled with warmth and joy!
Kitchen Fire in Chino Hills Home Leaves Behind Smoke and Soot Damage?
10/17/2023 (Permalink)
We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration services in San Bernardino County.
Even small, contained kitchen fires can leave behind smoke and soot damage that will require professional cleaning to restore the damage to pre-smoke damage conditions. October marks Residential Fire Awareness Month, and this year the theme is cooking safety. Unattended cooking is the top cause of kitchen fires in the United States, and the National Fire Protection Association urges people to remain in the kitchen while cooking over an open flame. Additionally, the NFPA suggests:
- Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop.
- Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
- If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
- Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains — away from your stovetop.
Our local Chino/Chino Hills team is highly trained and certified to restore smoke and soot damage quickly and efficiently. Every fire event leaves behind a unique signature based on what fueled the flames. Our technicians pretest every surface prior to cleaning to ensure they are using the most effective means for removing the oily soot and smoke odor.
Call Us Today!
When your Chino Hills home or commercial business has any fire damage, our Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 909-548-3191.
Franchises are independently owned and operated.
Protecting Your Chino Home & Business During National Fire Prevention Week
10/10/2023 (Permalink)
We are trained and certified to restore fire damage in San Bernardino County
October is here, and with it comes National Fire Prevention Week. This annual observance serves as an essential reminder of the destructive power of fires and the importance of fire safety. At SERVPRO Team Brogdon, we believe that being prepared and informed is the key to protecting your home or business. In this blog post, we'll explore some crucial tips for safeguarding your property during National Fire Prevention Week.
The Significance of National Fire Prevention Week
National Fire Prevention Week is observed during the week of October 9th in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. This devastating fire claimed lives and left countless people homeless. The goal of this week is to raise awareness about fire safety and prevention to prevent such tragedies from happening again.
Essential Fire Prevention Tips
Install Smoke Alarms: Make sure your property has working smoke alarms on every level and inside and outside sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace batteries as needed.
Create a Fire Escape Plan: Develop a clear and practiced fire escape plan for your family or employees. Designate meeting points outside and ensure everyone knows the quickest exits.
Check Electrical Systems: Regularly inspect your property's electrical systems. Replace or repair damaged wiring and outlets promptly. Avoid overloading circuits.
Store Flammable Materials Safely: Keep flammable materials like gasoline, propane, and cleaning products in well-ventilated areas, away from heat sources, and in approved containers.
Maintain Heating Equipment: Schedule professional inspections and maintenance for heating systems, including furnaces and chimneys, before the cold weather sets in.
Kitchen Safety: Never leave cooking unattended, and keep flammable items away from the stove. Make sure you have a working fire extinguisher in your kitchen and know how to use it.
SERVPRO Team Brogdon's Commitment to Fire Prevention
Our dedication to fire safety doesn't stop at providing restoration services; we believe in proactive measures. We offer educational workshops and seminars to empower our community with knowledge about fire prevention and safety.
In case disaster strikes, our highly trained professionals are ready to assist you with comprehensive fire damage restoration services. We work tirelessly to restore your property to its pre-fire condition, minimizing the impact on your life or business.
National Fire Prevention Week is a time for reflection and action. By implementing these fire prevention tips and staying informed, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire-related disasters. SERVPRO Team Brogdon is here to support you in your fire prevention efforts and assist you in times of need. Together, we can create safer, more resilient communities.
Call Us Today!
When your home or business in Chino or Chino Hills has a fire damage emergency, our Chino/Chino Hills team will restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 909-548-3191.
Franchises are independently owned and operated.
Kids Playing with Fire Cause Fire Damage in Riverside Terrace Chino Home?
9/26/2023 (Permalink)
We respond to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day in San Bernardino County.
Kids are curious about everything, including fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), each year children “playing” with fire are responsible for causing injuries and millions of dollars in damage. Our local Chino/Chino Hills team responds to fire damage emergencies every year in Riverside Terrace Chino, and offers these tips from the NFPA for preventing children from playing with fire:
- Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children, up high, preferably in a locked cabinet
- Closely supervise children, making sure that they are kept away from other fire sources, including lit candles, cigarettes, bonfires, and stoves
- Explain that fire moves very fast and can hurt as soon as it touches them. Tell them that this is why matches and lighters are tools for adults only.
- Teach young children never to touch matches or lighters. They must tell a grown-up when matches or lighters are found.
- Establish clear rules and consequences about unsupervised and unauthorized uses of fire
- Be a good example! Always use fire sources — matches, lighters, candles, fireplaces, and campfires — in a safe manner. Never treat them as toys or children may imitate you.
- Talk with children about what their friends or other children are doing with fire. What do they see online in video games, TV, movies, and social media? Teach them specific ways to resist peer pressure to misuse fire.
- Give praise for showing respect and age-appropriate responsible behavior toward fire
Call Us Today!
When your home or business in Riverside Terrace Chino has a fire damage emergency, our Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help®. Call us today at 909-548-3191.
Franchises are independently owned and operated.
Last-Minute Steps for Reducing Wildfire Damage to Your Home in Butterfield Ranch?
9/19/2023 (Permalink)
We are trained and certified to restore fire damage in San Bernardino County.
Every year wildfires cause damage to thousands of acres of land in California, and our local Chino/Chino Hills team wants everyone in Butterfield Ranch to take preventative steps to reduce damage to their home. If time allows, the Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety offers these tips to reduce wildfire damage:
DOUBLE-CHECK YOUR HOME IGNITION ZONE
Remove combustible materials from the 0 to five feet zone around your home.
- Clear dead plants, weeds, grass, or any other combustible materials on and under your deck, and within five feet of your home
- Move flammable items on your deck and around your home, such as toys, patio furniture, door mats, and trash cans into your home or place them in your pool
- Move propane tanks used with barbecue grills away from home
- If you are evacuating, place the propane tank at the curb
- Remove weeds and other debris from the area around large stationary propane tanks (125 gallons water capacity or more) so there is no combustible material near the tank
- If you have a combustible fence that attaches to your home, secure the gate in an open position
- Also, clear vegetation and debris under and within one foot of the fence line in the area within five feet of your home.
CONSIDER WATER
Connect garden hoses to the spigots but do not leave sprinklers on. It can negatively affect water pressure. Leave buckets of water around your home.
Call Us Today!
When your home or business in Butterfield Ranch has a fire damage emergency, our Chino/Chino Hills team will restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 909-548-3191.
Franchises are independently owned and operated.
Curious Cat Starts Fire in Fairfield Ranch Park?
8/29/2023 (Permalink)
We are leaders in fire damage restoration in San Bernardino County.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that each year, pets and wild animals play a role in starting over 750 home fires. Pets can cause fires by bumping into, turning on, or knocking over cooking equipment. Our local Chino/Chino Hills team responds to fire damage emergencies every year in Fairfield Ranch Park, and offers these pet fire safety tips from the NFPA for keeping your furry friends safe around fire:
- Keep pets away from stoves and countertops
- Keep pets away from candles, lamps, and space heaters
- Always use a metal or heat-tempered glass screen on a fireplace and keep it in place
- Keep pets away from a chimney’s outside vents.
- Have a “pet-free zone” of at least three feet away from the fireplace. Glass doors and screens can stay dangerously hot for several hours after the fire goes out.
- Some pets are chewers. Watch pets to make sure they don’t chew through electrical cords. Have any problems checked by a professional.
Call Us!
You never know when a fire will damage your home, but if your home or commercial business in Fairfield Park Ranch has fire damage, our Chino/Chino Hills team will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 909-548-3191.
Franchises are independently owned and operated.
Is Your Chino Hills Home Ready for Wildfire Season?
8/14/2023 (Permalink)
We respond to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day in San Bernardino County.
When your home or commercial business has been damaged by a wildfire, our local Chino/Chino Hills are Here to Help. ® Our technicians are trained and certified to clean, restore, and rebuild homes and commercial properties damaged by wildfire.
Live flying embers can travel distances of up to five miles and start fires. Here are some tips for defending your property from wildfire damage from the San Bernardino County website:
Access and Visibility
- Make sure the roadway approaching your home is wide enough to accommodate an evacuating car and entering fire truck at the same time (minimum of 26 feet wide and 14-foot vertical clearance). Trim overhanging branches to allow enough overhead clearance for large emergency vehicles.
- Streets and roads must be marked with clearly visible street signs. Missing or difficult-to-read signs can delay emergency response.
Your address should be easily seen from the street. If necessary, post it at the driveway entrance as well as on your home. The numbers should be at least four inches tall on a contrasting background. Periodically check to make certain that new plant growth has not covered any part of your address.
Call Us Today!
Every year thousands of acres burn during wildfires, so if you sustain wildfire damage in your Chino Hills home or commercial business, our Chino/Chino Hills team will restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 909-548-3191.
Franchises are independently owned and operated.
Butterfield Ranch Home Saved from Fire Damage by Smoke Alarms?
7/25/2023 (Permalink)
We restore fire damage “Like it never even happened” in San Bernardino. County.
Our local Chino/Chino Hills team is a trusted leader in fire damage restoration services in Butterfield Ranch. Working smoke detectors can alert the household to impending fire danger, giving the occupants time to get out of the house safely. Here are some smoke alarm safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:
Smoke Alarm Safety Tips
- A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home.
- Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound.
- Large homes may need extra smoke alarms
- Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
- Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions yet mitigate false alarms
- When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside
- Replace all smoke alarms in your home every ten years
Call Us Today!
Smoke alarms are a critical part of a home fire escape plan and play an important role in reducing fire deaths in the United States. When your home or commercial business in Butterfield Ranch has fire, smoke, or soot damage, our Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 909-548-3191.
Franchises are independently owned and operated.
Los Serranos Home Damaged by Wildfire?
7/11/2023 (Permalink)
We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in San Bernardino County.
Wildfires happen every year in California. Our local Chino/Chino Hills team is trained and certified to perform a full range of fire damage restoration services in Los Serranos. No matter how extensive the fire damage may be, we can perform every step required to bring your home back to pre-fire condition. We follow this comprehensive process for every fire damage customer we serve:
Step 1: Emergency Contact
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 Assessment
Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service
We will board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.
Step 4: Water Removal and Drying
The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes most 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
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. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
Step 7: Restoration
Restoration may involve minor repairs, or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
Call Us Today!
When your home or commercial business in Los Serranos has fire damage, our Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 909-548-3191.
Franchises are independently owned and operated.
Be Prepared: Fire Safety Tips and Services for Chino and Chino Hills Homeowners
4/28/2023 (Permalink)
We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Chino Hills & San Bernardino County.
Fire prevention and safety should always be a top priority for homeowners in the Chino and Chino Hills area. A house fire can occur at any time, and it can cause significant damage to your property and harm to your loved ones. While no one wants to experience a fire, it is essential to be prepared and take steps to prevent fires from occurring.
One of the easiest ways to prevent fires is to ensure that your fire alarms are functioning correctly. You should check your fire alarms regularly to ensure that they are in working order. It's recommended that you test your smoke alarms every month to ensure that they are working correctly. Don't forget to replace the batteries annually to keep them working correctly.
Another essential step to prevent fires in the Chino and Chino Hills area is to be cautious with the use of open flames, such as candles, fireplaces, and outdoor fire pits. Make sure to keep flammable items away from open flames, and never leave them unattended. If you use space heaters, make sure to keep them away from flammable materials and turn them off when you leave the room or go to bed.
In the event of a fire, it's crucial to have a plan in place in the Chino and Chino Hills area. Make sure that everyone in your home knows how to evacuate quickly and safely. Have a designated meeting place outside of the home, and make sure that everyone knows where it is.
Even with the best prevention and safety measures in place, accidents can still happen. That's why it's important to have access to 24/7 emergency fire damage restoration services in the Chino and Chino Hills area. These services can help minimize the damage to your property and help you get back on your feet as quickly as possible.
At SERVPRO, we understand the importance of providing fast and efficient emergency fire damage restoration services in the Chino and Chino Hills area. Our team of experts is available 24/7 to assist you in the event of a fire. We can help with everything from initial cleanup to reconstruction and restoration services.
If you experience a fire in the Chino or Chino Hills area, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO Team Brogdon at (909) 548-3191. Our team is ready to assist you with emergency fire damage restoration services in the Inland Empire community, including Chino and Chino Hills. Remember, fire prevention and safety should always be a top priority in the Chino and Chino Hills area, but if the worst does happen, we're here to help.
Dead Christmas Tree Fire Avoided in Chino?
1/3/2023 (Permalink)
We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in San Bernardino County.
Our Chino/Chino Hills team wishes everyone in Chino a Happy New Year! Is your dead Christmas tree still in the house? The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reminds residents to remove their trees after Christmas or when the tree is dry. Here are some tips from the NFPA for preventing Christmas tree fires:
After Christmas
Get rid of the tree after Christmas or when it is dry. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage or placed outside against the house. Check with your local community to find a recycling program. Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.
Christmas Tree Fire Facts
- Electrical problems cause almost one-third of home Christmas tree fires
- Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious
- A heat source too close to the tree causes more than one in every five fires
Chino Christmas Tree Recycling Services
Christmas trees will be collected beginning December 26 at no additional charge. Here's more information from Waste Management:
- Trees longer than four feet tall must be cut in half
- Please remove all decorations, including tinsel, lights, ornaments, and tree stands
- Flocked trees will be collected by the trash truck but cannot be recycled
Call Us Today!
When you have a fire damage emergency in your home or commercial business, our Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 909-548-3191.
Franchises are independently owned and operated.
Christmas Tree Fire in Fairfield Ranch Park Home?
12/20/2022 (Permalink)
We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in San Bernardino County.
Our Chino/Chino Hills team wishes everyone in Fairfield Ranch Park happy holidays! According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), December is one of the nation’s peak months for home fires. Electrical problems cause almost one-third of home Christmas tree fires. Here are some Christmas tree safety tips from the NFPA:
PICKING THE TREE
- Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched
PLACING THE TREE
- Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2 inches from the base of the trunk
- Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights
- Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit
- Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.
LIGHTING THE TREE
- Use lights that a qualified testing laboratory lists. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.
- Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect.
- Never use lit candles to decorate the tree
- Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed
Call Us!
When you have a fire damage emergency in your Fairfield Ranch Park home or business, our Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 909-548-3191.
Franchises are independently owned and operated.
Home Cooking Safety Tips for Sleepy Hollow Families?
11/21/2022 (Permalink)
We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in San Bernardino County.
You’re not alone if you’ve ever had a cooking fire in your Sleepy Hollow home. Cooking fires are one of the leading causes of home fires in the United States, and more cooking fires happen each year on Thanksgiving Day! Fortunately, our Chino/Chino Hills team is trained and certified to restore fire damage, no matter how big the job is. Our technicians are on call 24-hours a day to respond to fire damage emergencies.
We wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving and offer these cooking safety tips from theNational Fire Protection Association:
- Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop.
- Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
- If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking
- Keep anything that can catch fire (oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains) away from your stovetop
Call Us Today!
When you have a fire damage emergency in your Sleepy Hollow home or commercial business, our Chino/Chino Hills team is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 909-548-3191.
Franchises are independently owned and operated.
Fire Safety Tips for Los Serranos Trick-Or-Treaters?
10/11/2022 (Permalink)
We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in San Bernardino County.
Our teams in Chino/Chino Hills want everyone in Los Serranos to have a fun a s safe Halloween celebration this year. Here are some Halloween safety tips from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection:
Tips for Halloween night
- Use battery-powered lights - never use candles to light jack-o’-lanterns
- Instruct children to stay away from open flames
- Remove objects from the yard that present a hazard to children (garden tools, hoses, etc.)
- Be extremely careful with cornstalks and other harvest season items. Keep them away from sources of heat. Don’t let them block doorways or stairs.
- Do not allow children to carry sharp sticks or other objects that could cause injury to themselves or to others
- If you are driving on Halloween, take care…watch out for trick-or-treaters who will be too busy to watch out for you
- Closely inspect all candy before allowing children to eat it. Discard any unwrapped treats from a stranger. If in doubt, throw it out.
Tips for choosing the right costumes
- Purchase costumes made of flame-retardant material
- Keep hemlines short enough to prevent tripping and avoid loose, baggy sleeves, or billowing skirts
- To be seen easily, costumes should be made of a light color material
- Use glow-in-the-dark reflective tape on your costume
- Use make-up rather than masks, which could obstruct vision
Call Us Today!
When your home or business in Los Serranos has fire damage, our Chino/Chino Hills team will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 909-548-3191.
Franchises are independently owned and operated.
Three of the most common causes of commercial fires
3/28/2022 (Permalink)
Did you know that, on average, U.S. fire departments respond to over 3,300 office fires per year?
Some of the most common causes of commercial building fires include cooking and heating equipment, electrical and lighting equipment, and smoking materials (yes, lit cigarettes disposed of incorrectly), all of which can be avoided.
Property owners must be aware of the fire risk posed in commercial buildings and relay the message to employees occupying these buildings on being mindful of fire risks in the workplace.
We recommend distributing a memo to employers occupying your commercial property with fire safety literature and best practices to avoid fire damage in the future.
If your business experiences a fire loss, call the fire and water damage restoration experts 24/7 at SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills, and we’ll respond immediately to get your building back to its normal operations.
Top Tips to Prevent Fires
2/8/2022 (Permalink)
No matter the season, house fires should always be a concern to property owners and renters alike. It’s essential to prepare for house fires by purchasing a fire extinguisher, but it’s even more imperative to prevent them from destroying your home.
Simple things like blowing out candles and keeping space heaters away from other items in your home are good habits to develop to prevent house fires, but it’s not enough.
Here are our top four tips to help you prevent a future house.
Test smoke detector
Smoke alarms can seriously be the difference between life and death. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends replacing smoke detectors every ten years. They also suggest testing the detector once a month while replacing the batteries once every two years.
Store flammable items in a safe place
Many people are unaware of how many household items are flammable. Items like paint thinner, gas, nail polish, hairspray, aerosol cans, rubbing alcohol, and cooking oil are all flammable. It’s important to safely store these items away from sparks and flames to avoid a house fire.
Inspect appliances and wiring
We recommend regularly inspecting home appliances and wiring to maintain functionality and prevent fires. Easy things like making sure the lint is removed from the dryer, ensuring your air conditioner and heating units are cleaned each season, inspecting the chimney, keeping the kitchen free of grease, and walking around your entire property ensuring no wires are exposed can save you from the headache of a house fire.
Educate your household on fire safety
For many people, learning about a house fire and how to prevent them isn’t important to them, until it happens to them. Don’t be these people.
Educate your entire household on the simple fire safety tips mentioned above. It’s also worthwhile to teach each member of your home how to utilize a fire extinguisher in case of an emergency; knowing how to operate an extinguisher can save your home from needing to be completely restored. Also, if you don’t know how to operate a fire extinguisher, your local fire department would be happy to assist you.
Fire Safety while Traveling
2/8/2022 (Permalink)
We are all thinking of getting back to our summer traveling, taking our families on that DREAM vacation. While we plan and prepare there is one area that most of us don’t think about – Fire Safety in our hotel rooms.
According to an article on Sandy Springs Volunteer Fire Department website, 3,900 hotel or motel fires occur each year. So, while we prepare for that summer trip we should take into account these tips to make sure we keep our families safe in our hotel/motel rooms:
- Choose a hotel/motel that has both fire sprinklers and smoke alarms.
- When checking in ask the front desk what the fire alarms sound like.
- When entering your room, review the fire evacuation plan located near the door.
- Take the time to find the two nearest exits and count the doors between your room and the exit. Make sure the exits are unlocked and if not, report this to management right away.
- Keep the room key by the bed and take it with you in the event of a fire.
- If an alarm sounds, leave right away, closing all doors behind you. Always take the stairs, never take the elevator.
- If you must escape through smoke, get low and crawl under the smoke to the nearest exit.
These few tips can help you rest assured that your family is safe during your summer vacation.
Tips provided by U.S. Fire Administration and National Fire Protection Association.
Why Trust SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills?
12/1/2021 (Permalink)
At SERVPRO of Chino / Chino Hills, we pride ourselves in excellent customer service and outstanding communication with every client that we have the privilege to assist.
We are here to serve you, help you through the restoration process, listen to every concern, and address those concerns in a timely manner to get you back into your property as soon as possible.
Our entire team prides itself on being communicative during every step of the process, so you know the details of the service being performed at your property. Unlike others, we take the time to explain the process and ensure that you, the owner, understand what each step of the process will look like.
The SERVPRO team is diligent and pays such close attention to detail; it’s truly what sets our team apart from the rest. This is not just work, this is our passion; being able to restore homes and businesses in our community and beyond.
What to do if a Fire starts
8/29/2021 (Permalink)
If a fire starts in your property, it’s important to ACT fast…and it’s imperative that you and your family understand what to do if this happens to your home.
First, make sure everyone in the home is aware that there is a fire, yell, “Fire!” and demand that every person evacuates the home. Designate a member of your family to call 911.
When evacuating your home, if heavy smoke is present, get low (underneath the smoke) and exit. Avoid touching doors where knobs are hot to the touch; evacuate through another route if you can.
Fires move quickly, so it’s important for all adult household members to know how to use a fire extinguisher. If the fire is sizable, unleash the fire extinguisher, but if the fire has traveled to multiple parts of the home, quickly evacuate.
Many homeowners don’t know this, but your local fire department can show you how to properly use a fire extinguisher, fill it up and inspect it for any possible malfunctions.
To learn how to operate a fire extinguisher, visit https://rdcrss.org/3gC04nX.
Inspect your property after Fire
8/29/2021 (Permalink)
After a fire ravishes through your home or building, it's essential to inspect your property, but it's even more important to remain safe in the process.
When visiting your property after it's damaged by fire, do not walk past ANY colored tape on doors, windows, walls, etc., unless directed to do so by authorities; this is for your safety.
If you have any children, we recommend you leave them with a relative or friend while completing the personal home inspection to mitigate any more distress this experience may cause them.
What to look for in the inspection
In this process, professionals will inspect your property, but they will have you (the owner) visit the site to assess the damages soon after.
When inspecting your property after a fire, you should:
- Check for structural damage
- Access utilities and major systems
- Inspect electrical, plumbing, and heating systems
- Eliminate household items and cleaning products
"Contact your insurance agent. Do not discard damaged goods until an inventory has been taken. Save receipts for money spent relating to fire loss. Your insurance agent may provide immediate help with living expenses until you are able to return home and may offer assistance for repairs."
American Red Cross
SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills can help you with the property inspection process, it's essential to remain vigilant and pay close attention to detail and as trained professionals we can make sure this happens.
Better to have and need not
5/4/2021 (Permalink)
By now, if you’ve been reading our blogs on a somewhat regular basis, you know that SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills focuses on many different things almost constantly. We exercise caution in dangerous situations, we work until the job gets done (even with 4 jobs happening simultaneously), and we are sympathetic and professional on someone’s worst day. Losing your home or business to a fire is a very serious and often heartbreaking affair, which is exactly why we only hope to meet you under positive circumstances. In light of that sentiment, we have compiled some fire safety tips to help you avoid a potentially terrible situation from taking place.
First and foremost, one must never forget the basics. Things like turning burners off when unattended, never walking away from lit candles, and never allowing children or pets near a grill. These simple things have a tendency to slip our minds at times and, unfortunately and on rare occasion, these simple oversights can lead to tragedy. It only takes one mistake.
Second, make sure you keep fire safety equipment near areas that are potentially prone to fires. This includes places like kitchens, near grills, fireplaces, etc. Typically, a fire extinguisher of the correct type is sufficient. Fast action with an extinguisher may be the difference between a charred cabinet and countertop and a whole-home loss.
Lastly, if the worst-case scenario does indeed happen, be sure to call SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills as soon as possible. While losing property to a fire can be traumatizing, you can at least have the comfort of knowing that your home is in good hands with our professional and courteous technicians.
Game Day or Flame Day
3/2/2021 (Permalink)
It’s Friday night. You have waited the entire week, constantly daydreaming at work about this very moment. Tonight, you and your buddies are going to kick back, make some buffalo wings, and watch the game. You even have a nifty new appliance you’ve been dying to use: a portable deep fryer.
Now you’re no Emeril Lagasse, but you have eyeballs and you can follow directions easily enough. You pull the frozen chicken drumettes out of the bag, reading a recipe you got online. It says to only cook a certain amount of wings at a time. You weigh out the (approximate) correct amount, submerge them in the heated oil, and wait.
While standing around, one of your buddies suggest that you also make mozzarella sticks to accompany the buffalo wings. You have two bottles of ranch dressing that aren’t going to eat themselves.
You weigh out (again, approximately) the same amount of frozen cheese sticks, remove the wings, and drop the cheese sticks into the now much hotter oil. The ice crystals on the mozzarella sticks react with the 400 degree oil, causing oil to bubble and pop violently. Some of the oil gets on a kitchen rag, immediately setting it ablaze. You try to get the dish rag into the sink under water, panicking. The oil continues to pop and spit, setting other nearby soft goods on fire. Before long, the fire is out of control. You try to extinguish it, but the fire has spread too far too fast. You run out of the house to safety and call the fire department.
So much for game night.
While this situation could have been avoided, mistakes happen. When they do, rest assured that SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills have you covered. We repair kitchen fires all the time and while they are never fun to deal with, they can be resolved and you and your buddies can always try for game night again. Just be sure to heed those directions next time!
A Case of Arson
2/16/2021 (Permalink)
Cases of arson spiked in 2020. Between the violent riots that occurred in the summer and the unsteady socioeconomic environment across much of the United States, many homeowners and businesses lost their property to fire.
House fires are always traumatic for a homeowner. Regardless of the reason the fire started, the outcome is usually the same: loss of property, loss of personal belongings, and potential injury or death. Fire moves rapidly once it starts, especially when aided by a propellant such as gasoline or alcohol. This is common in cases of arson.
So as a home or business owner, what should you do in the event of a suspected arson fire? The most important thing to consider is the safety of you and your family but what should you do after everyone is accounted for?
In the event of any type of fire, time is of the essence. If possible, grab absolutely essential things or any keepsakes that can be safely retrieved. After everyone is out, immediately call the fire department. The best case scenario is they are able to mitigate the amount of damage your property takes.
Regardless of the amount, your home will sustain damage. This is where SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills comes in. Contact your insurance company and let them know that you want to have SERVPRO perform the necessary work on your home or business. With over 50 years in the industry, we are the best choice for restoring your home to preloss conditions.
Santa Ana Fires
12/4/2020 (Permalink)
The one thing California can always be sure of is what is commonly known as Santa Ana winds. This weather event typically kicks up around mid-Autumn and stays through the beginning of winter but this year, they seem to be a bit spotty in their frequency. SCE and other utility providers have issued multiple “Red Flag Warnings” in light of the wildfires that have broken out due to old lines and poor maintenance practices. These warnings indicate an imminent power shut-off in selected areas to mitigate the risk of wildfires breaking out.
As if we needed something else to worry about in 2020.
Is there a silver lining? You bet. SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills is at the ready and here to help. With over 50 years of experience in both wind damage and fire damage restoration, homeowners and business owners alike can rest assured that whether debris from wind damages your home or a wildfire event damages your business or personal property, SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills is your go-to resource to get your life back on track and to make it “Like it never even happened.”
Cozy Fire
11/2/2020 (Permalink)
Although it may be hard to believe, southern California seems like it may actually experience a real winter this year. October has experienced fluctuating hot and cold spells, with the cold spells becoming longer and more frequent. That can only mean one thing for the high desert: fireplaces will be getting some use this winter.
While homes built in California in recent years do not have fireplaces, a large number of the homes in the Chino Valley were built prior to the environmental laws that banned fireplaces and were therefore grandfathered in. While it is nothing short of awesome to curl up with a book next to a raging (controlled) fire, SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills has some quick tips we’d like to share with you to make sure you stay safe while doing so.
Per https://www.hgtv.com/lifestyle/clean-and-organize/fireplace-maintenance-and-safety, here are some hot tips to make sure you enjoy your fireplace:
- Fireplaces should not be used as furnaces. Use a fireplace for a short-duration fire — no longer than five hours.
- Keep the glass open to allow air to be drawn up to cool the chimney, but keep the screen closed to prevent sparks from jumping onto the carpeting.
- Never leave a fire unattended when children are in the house. Adults, even if near, should not allow children to play near or with fire tools and equipment.
- Open a window when using the fireplace to prevent the room from becoming smoky. The air coming in from the window will go up the chimney.
- Before making a fire, open the glass doors, pull aside the screen curtains, and place the kindling, newspaper and logs inside. Next, open the damper and a window. The window needs to be open only a few inches. You can check to make sure the smoke will go up the chimney properly by lighting a match, quickly blowing it out and watching the smoke to see whether it's going up and out.
If you experience a fire in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills immediately. We are here to help.
Hot Dang!
8/18/2020 (Permalink)
Fun fact of the day: Food is one of the most dangerous things to cook. Well, to be fair, the food isn’t the dangerous part. The process of cooking is. In fact, kitchen accidents are one of the leading causes of house fires. According to www.firstalert.com, these are the top three causes:
- Cooking
Oil fires and stove burners are like peanut butter and jelly. Many of these fires are avoidable but due to the fact that people attempt to snuff them using water as opposed to the correct type of fire extinguisher (Class B or K, or an all-purpose Class A, B, C type), they still end up growing until they are unable to be put out easily. A fire extinguisher (or multiple fire extinguishers) can literally be a life-saver, so make sure you have one handy.
- Heating
You’d be wan to find a Californian that doesn’t look for any excuse to burn a log in their fireplace or fire pit. Unfortunately, very few people take care of and maintain them. Creosote (the dark brown or black substance that forms as a byproduct of burning organic matter in an enclosed area) is extremely flammable and very hazardous, and it is a leading cause of preventable house fires. Make sure the area is free of creosote and debris that may accidentally catch fire.
- Smoking in bed
Aside from being a bad habit and killing many people annually, cigarettes may also pack a punch to your home. An average of 18,100 (www.nfpa.org) house fires begin annually due to people falling asleep while smoking.
If a house fire occurs for these or any other reason, SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.” With over 50 years in the industry, you can trust us to make it right, day or night. Give us a call today at (909)548-3191.
A Fire is More Than Just a Fire
8/18/2020 (Permalink)
Wildfires are terrifying. They are also a fact of life for Californians. While SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills handles small, isolated fire loss events on a fairly frequent basis, they pale in comparison to the occasional large-scale losses. Entire homes reduced to soggy carpets and scorched walls play host to countless memories and personal belongings that have been destroyed by water or warped beyond recognition by flames, leaving heartache and a giant mess for the occupants.
In these types of events, adrenaline and emotions run high and have a tendency to overshadow the full reality of the situation. Things like lodging are covered by most homeowners insurances, but what about toothpaste? Entertainment? The things that make life livable are the small things that tend to get overlooked in major catastrophes.
SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills has enough experience to know that house fires are incredibly stressful and, typically, life-changing events. For this reason, we will walk with your family through the entire process as if you were our family. While a fire is always a major tragedy, SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills is trying to soften the blow a bit while we return your home to preloss conditions.
If you have experienced a house or commercial fire, give us a call today at (909)548-3191.
Chimney
2/20/2020 (Permalink)
Fire damaged house from a chimney fire.
According to the NFPA, $25.6 billion worth of property damage occurred as a result of fires in 2018, $8 billion of which came from house fires. A common cause of these issues is chimneys and fireplaces. Fires that burn for too long and too hot in a fireplace are an obvious risk factor for fires, and creosote buildup only serves to exacerbate problems.
If your home suffers fire damage due to a fireplace or chimney-related disaster, IICRC-certified SERVPRO of Chino / Chino Hills technicians are ready to mitigate damage and odors to return your home to preloss conditions. No matter the size of the fire, SERVPRO professionals can mitigate both short and long-term damages while minimizing the need for costly replacement of possessions, furniture, and other materials.
Warning signs for chimney fires
There are some telltale symptoms that a chimney or fireplace may pose an elevated risk for a house fire. Damaged rain caps (also known as dampers) are a good indicator of compromised safety. The high heat from fires burning can cause warping and discoloration.
Creosote, a dark, oily substance that comes from burning wood resin, leaves deposits that expand and create a residue while it burns. Since chimneys are often very hot (even in the absence of a fire), creosote can easily ignite and lead to a house fire.
Clay flue tile liners are typical. Even though this type of tile is rated to withstand extremely high temperatures, they do have their limits. Chimney fires are capable of burning as high as 2000 degrees, which is far too hot for these tiles. Prolonged exposure may crack or damage them.
How SERVPRO Can Help
SERVPRO of Chino / Chino Hills has many different countermeasures to deal with soot and creosote buildup. To tackle more substantial situations, our technicians may use Roto pads or brushes to dislodge soils. Creosote can be removed with blast media like baking soda, ground corn cobs, or sand. Smaller issues can be addressed with cleaning tools like dry cleaning sponges, dusting cloths, and other dry or wet cleaning techniques.
Whatever the condition of your chimney, the technicians at SERVPRO of Chino / Chino Hills are here to help 24/7, 365 days a year.
Wet Smoke
2/20/2020 (Permalink)
Burned synthetic material and residue
Think of all of the synthetic materials that are commonly found in households, including your own. Polyester, nylon, rayon – the list goes on and on. While these materials pose no threat in normal conditions, by introducing excessive heat (such as in a fire), chemicals are released during the combustion process in the form of thick, acrid smoke. Synthetic smoke residue is typically oily and difficult to remove, which is why we refer to them as “wet smoke deposits”. In high-temperature / high-pressure situations like a structure fire, wet smoke can molecularly bond with the surfaces that they come into contact with. Attempting to remove them with typical household cleaners can prove to be an impossible feat.
While you may be tempted to try and resolve wet smoke damage in your Chino home without the assistance of a professional restoration company (cough, SERVPRO, cough), when plastic or synthetic materials are among the debris, it may be a wise decision to enlist the help of a trained expert. Unlike water-based staining and soiling, wet smoke can spread around quickly, wreaking further havoc in your home. The proprietary chemicals and solvents that SERVPRO of Chino / Chino Hills uses are specially formulated to break down and clean up wet smoke damage.
Typically, the majority of surfaces in a home have finishes on them. These finishes vary in composition. Floors may be varnished, while appliances may be sealed. At high temperatures, these finishes can melt and release chemicals into the home while also bonding with wet smoke in a fire. It can prove rather difficult (if not downright impossible) to fully remove wet smoke damage by using regular household cleaners.
To fight staining that has bonded at a molecular level, SERVPRO of Chino / Chino Hills uses a process known as “dissolution”. Dissolution is a technique that involves applying a particular chemical to a surface that dissolves both the finish and the soot attached to it. Once that happens, both the solvent and the soot can be removed at the same time. This process is extremely effective at restoring your home to preloss conditions because it allows for an even surface to refinish after the process is complete.
Even though wet smoke damage may seem like an easy undertaking, it can prove to be quite a challenging feat to tackle. Let the pros at SERVPRO of Chino / Chino Hills take care of it. We are here to help 24/7, 365 days a year.
Fire Event
1/29/2020 (Permalink)
Roof impact of house fire
Some aspects of life in Southern California are unavoidable.
Taxes on just about everything you can imagine, rush hour never really ending, and worst of all, the unpredictable fluctuation of the cost of living. With Los Angeles county alone being home to one-tenth of the country’s population (35,000,000 compared to 350,000,000), these annoyances don’t seem to annoy people enough to leave, and why would they? Between the sprawling beaches and the gorgeous mountain views, there is a lot to be desired.
Unfortunately, with all the mountains and wild growth, California is also predisposed to wildfires. A sobering fact of life for residents up and down the Golden Coast, wildfires are one of the most dangerous and damaging aspects of life for Californians. In 2018 alone, California experienced one of the deadliest and most destructive fire seasons on record. The resulting damage was more than $3,500,000,000 ($3.5 B), 1,893,913 acres burned, and 103 fatalities. Some of the more well-known and notable fires include:
- The Camp Fire, which was the most destructive wildfire in California history and destroyed over 18,800 structures.
- The Woolsey Fire, which burned 96,949 acres of land and resulted in 40 deaths.
- The Holy Fire, which affected both Orange and Riverside counties, respectively, and burned for over a month straight.
Some of these fires were caused by arson; others were ignited by natural causes such as lightning. All of them were incredibly destructive and for many homeowners, resulted in a total loss of property and possessions. Thousands more structures were affected and while they were not completely demolished, they were left with serious external and structural issues. Smoke damage in a home is not confined to only discoloration and a lasting odor; it can make you physically ill. Everything from runny noses and watery eyes to upper respiratory issues and compromised immune systems have resulted from soot and smoke particulates.
Water damage is another unavoidable aspect of a structure fire. After the flames have been extinguished, much of a home or business may be left with severe water damage or flooding. This may affect everything from carpeting to ceilings, and much of the time, walls and the internal components such as studs and insulation.
While wildfires are a major contributing factor to burn damage in California, many fires also begin within the home. Burning candles left unattended, faulty wiring, and cooking equipment are all common culprits of house fires. While smaller in scale, these fires can still have disastrous effects. Much of the time, homeowners may be at work or asleep when the fire starts, allowing it to grow in size and intensity very quickly.
Fires are an unavoidable fact of life in Southern California. While we hope you never have to experience one firsthand, SERVPRO of Chino / Chino Hills is ready to help if you do. Our team of trained technicians is on standby 24/7, 365, and we are here to help get things back to normal.
Fire Season
10/21/2019 (Permalink)
California has seen devastating fire storms in the past couple of years and now that fire Season is upon us SERVPRO of Chino/Chino Hills would like to offer you all a few tips to help protect your homes in the event a wildfire sparks in your neighborhood.
- Keep your trees and shrubs pruned.
- Be sure your irrigation system is functioning properly.
- Clear dead and dying vegetation from your property.
- Clean your gutters.
- Do not keep firewood stacked too close to your home.
- Properly store flammable liquid.
- If requested by law enforcement to evacuate, leave your home. It is better to keep your family safe, than to get caught off guard.
- Keep your wallet or purse, keys, phone and power cords easily accessible to take on your way out the door.
- Make sure your family has an escape route that includes a meeting place in the event the family gets separated.
Here’s wishing everyone a safe Fire Season!
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