DON'T LET A LITTLE SPACE HEATER CAUSE A BIG HEADACHE!

11/5/2024 (Permalink)

Bedroom affected by Fire Damage

As temperatures are dropping, you may find the need for a space heater. These devices may be little, but they can cause unthinkable damage. Here are some helpful tips for the use of your space heater that you may need to keep in mind!

Never leave a space heater unattended. These helpful devices, that we so often use during colder weather, are one of many leading causes of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning as a result of being left unattended. 

Never position a space heater less than 3 feet away from anything flammable. The heater should also be facing toward empty space to reduce risk of a fire.

Never use an extension cord or power strip to plug in your space heater. If you were to use one of these, the circuit could become overloaded or overheat. This could cause an electrical fire.

Never expose your space heater to water. This rule goes for anything electrical. Something even as simple as running your space heater in the bathroom as you shower, could cause damage to the coils and result in a fire.

If you fall victim to a fire as a result of failed space heater safety. Let SERVPRO of Texarkana help. Give us a call to schedule our PRO's for services or visit our website for more information on other services offered by our company. 

Office: 903-832-4400

Website: SERVPROtexarkana.com

For more information on home fire safety, you can visit the American Red Cross Website.

HUNKA HUNKA BURNIN' LOVE!

11/27/2023 (Permalink)

Time to order take-out!

Are You Suffering From An Electrical Fire Loss?

All over the United States, electrical fires are one of the most common causes of house fires. Electrical fires are not exclusive to older buildings or home appliances. In fact, 50% of electrical fires start with electrical distribution and lighting equipment. This is due to a compromised wire insulation, an overloaded conduit, or the equipment becoming hot and being close to combustible material. With the colder weather approaching, here are a few ways to protect yourself and home from an Electrical Fire.

Some Of Many Ways To Protect You And Your Home From An Electrical Fire:

• Have your home and/or business thoroughly inspected by a qualified electrician to ensure that electrical work is up to code
• Install smoke detectors on every level of your home and/or business.
• Have an up to code fire extinguisher
• Schedule an inspection for any fire extinguisher and/or smoke detectors every month
• Establish an emergency escape plan
• Do not overload electrical outlets, surge protectors or extension cords
• Use lightbulbs that meet the recommended power of light fixture
• Inspect your appliances, extension cords, and plug-ins often to make sure they have not become compromised
• Look and listen for apparent signs of problems; sizzling or buzzing, flickering lights, frequently tripped breakers

Following these tips can help prevent and make sure you are as ready as possible for a fire disaster, but no one is really ready for a home disaster. In those times of need, SERVPRO of Texarkana is Here to Help^® 24/7. We offer board-ups, estimates, and reconstruction services. When calling SERVPRO of Texarkana for any disaster, we will make it our mission to make it Like it never even happened^®.

Call Today: 903-832-4400

Oven, Microwave and Electrical Fires

11/7/2022 (Permalink)

Oven, Microwave, and Electrical Fires

Fires can happen anywhere in the kitchen — near an electrical outlet, in the microwave, or in the stove. Here are some tips to help you know what to do in case of any of these kitchen fires:

• Oven fires. Immediately close the oven door and turn it off. If the fire doesn’t go out right away, call the fire department. Have the oven inspected and repaired before you use it again.
• Microwave fires. Close the microwave door and keep it closed. Turn the microwave off and unplug it if you can do so safely. Leave it closed and don't use it again until you can have the appliance checked out by a technician.
• Electrical fires. Prevent electrical fires by not overloading your electrical outlets with appliances. If a fire starts, use a fire extinguisher; never douse it with water. Always call the fire department for an electrical fire, even if you have already put it out with the fire extinguisher

If you are in need of fire damage repair and restoration, call SERVPRO of Texarkana, available 24/7 at (903)832-4400

Where Should Home Fire Alarms Go?

10/2/2022 (Permalink)

While many homes in Texarkana come already installed with all the smoke alarms you need to make sure you are keeping your family safe. As more research has been conducted over the years on fires and how they spread, requirements have changed. Many older homes do not meet these standards which can be dangerous in the case a fire does occur. Keep your family safe by ensuring a fire alarm is located in the following four locations! Bedrooms - The National Fire Protection Association suggests the placement of a fire alarm in every bedroom of the house. This ensures that if a fire occurs while your family is asleep, the alarms will wake quickly wake up everyone. Outside Every Sleeping Area - Not only should alarms be inside every bedroom, but there should also be a smoke alarm right outside the room or any other sleeping areas as well. This is so you can react and start to escape before any fire or smoke even enters your room. 10 Feet From Your Kitchen - Kitchen fires result in approximately 50 percent of all home fires, many of which result in serious fire damage to your home. Make sure a fire alarm is located 10 feet from your kitchen rather than inside it since smoke or steam from cooking can easily trigger it. Every Level of Your Home - Ensure that there is as least one smoke alarm on every level of your home. Don’t forget your basement! Serious fire and smoke damage can occur from an undetected fire that starts in the basement. It doesn’t take long for a house fire to quickly get out of hand! That’s why it is so important to have all the required fire alarms installed so you can quickly get everyone out of your house and get in contact with the fire department and a fire restoration company to minimize the fire damage to your home.

SERVPRO Halloween Fire Safety Do’s & Don’ts

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

Holiday Fire Threats

Creating a spooky and scary Halloween vibe often relies on lighting effects in your home and yard. Jack-o-lanterns, candelabras and fog machines are classic props during spooky season. Even though these props are super cool, they also pose huge safety risks. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that Halloween decorations cause 800 house fires every year, which totals about $11 million in property damage. And that’s not accounting for the damage that can come to you if your costume meets an open flame. That’s why SERVPRO of Texarkana has created a list of Halloween do’s and don’ts to ensure that you have safe fun- without giving up the spookiness.

Decorations

Most decorations are extremely flammable due to the materials that make them up. When purchasing items make sure they pass the safety check:

DON’T use a candle inside of your jack-o-lantern. Pumpkins can be easily tipped over by kids or pets and catch whatever it is surrounding on fire.

DO use an LED light, electric candles or glow sticks.

DON’T use hay bales, dried flowers or leaves or paper if they’re paired with a flammable decoration. Also don’t put flammable decorations in the path of any exits in case of emergency.

DO use flame-resistant and non-flammable materials if possible. Avoid having a wood burning fire inside if you believe it will be left unattended for any period of time.

Fact: More than a third of house fires are caused by misuse of candles during a holiday season as decoration.

Costumes

Most Halloween costumes pose a fire hazard. When choosing a costume for yourself or your children only choose fire retardant materials. Avoid costumes that are bulky, hard to navigate in or have an excess of fabric. Coach children to stay away from live flames when at a Halloween party or trick-or-treating. Glow sticks and flashlights are a safe and easy tool for your kids to light their way during the night of festivities. If your child has a mask, make sure it is properly fitted to easily see. Review fire safety drills with your kids- such as STOP, DROP and ROLL.

Final Tips

Get ahead of the holiday by ensuring that your fire and smoke alarms are working and have fresh batteries. Check up with your neighbors to make sure they’re prepared for spooky season as well- as fires do spread. Have an evacuation plan in place in case of emergency.

After Fire Tips

7/17/2022 (Permalink)

The aftermath of a fire can be chaotic and emotionally devastating. You may be concerned with the damage done to your property, and the business you’re likely to lose as a result of it. Although it can be difficult, it’s important to stop, take a deep breath, and prioritize what needs to be done. Follow these steps to help make sure your loss goes smoothly as possible.

1. Contact Your Insurance Provider
   
   It’s important to contact your insurance provider first, so that you can begin the process of filing a claim. Your provider will want to send a claims adjuster to assess the damage, and the sooner this can be scheduled, the sooner you will receive payment to pay for restoration services.
   
   2. Secure Your Property
   
   Fire can leave your building with large holes in the walls and ceilings, leaving the contents exposed to further damage. Your insurance will cover damages from the fire, but it won’t cover damage from rain and snow entering the building after the fire, or theft resulting from the building being easily accessible.
2. Document the Damage
   
   Your insurance company will require evidence of your losses. Take photographs or videos of as much damage as you can without putting yourself in danger. It’s also good to compile a list of everything lost in the fire. If you have receipts or other documentation, start pulling these together. 
   
   4. Resist the Temptation To Clean Up
   
   Although you may feel tempted to begin throwing things away or making repairs, don’t. It’s important that the claims adjuster has a chance to assess the original damage. It’s also better to let a fire restoration specialist assess your property before throwing it out. Items you believe to be destroyed by smoke damage may actually be salvageable through smoke cleaning.

If you experience a loss, give us a call. We will come out and discuss the process, on what we can and cannot do, and how to get started in the restoration process.

Smoke Detector Safety Tips

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Our team in Texarkana responds to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day, every day of the year. Smoke alarms play a critical role in a home fire escape plan. Working fire alarms give residents early warning so they can get out of the house quickly. Here are some smoke alarm safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Smoke Alarm Safety

• 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!

When your home or commercial business needs fire damage restoration services, our local team in Texarkana will restore the damage, “Like it never even happened.”  Call us today at 903-832-4400.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Can Debris Removal Benefit Post-Fire Cleaning of Home?

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Emergency Services Play a Part in Lessening Loss Effects to Make Restoration Efficient.

Fires can occur from multiple sources, making restoration and recovery of these situations a broad spectrum of action. Often, the initial steps taken to reduce loss and out of pocket expense for customers can be among the most important to maximizing restoration efficiency. Emergency services can encompass multiple actions but often involve debris removal.

How Can Debris Removal Help Your Fire-Damaged Home in Texarkana? 

By removing heaps of charred remnants of the structure and particles like ash and soot, we can help the property in multiple ways after a fire in your Texarkana home. Our technicians recognize the benefits of debris removal to reduce the severity of carcinogenic particles and harsh odors in the environment. Other emergency services available with our general contracting include:

• Controlled demolition
• Utility repair
• Board-up/tarping
• Water removal

The combination of our general contractors and experienced fire restoration professionals on our SERVPRO of Texarkana team can make fire losses “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at (903) 832-4400.

4 Tips for Making the Perfect Fire Escape Plan

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to your family, safety is paramount. Because you never know when a fire might occur, it is always best to have a solid fire escape plan at the ready. Depending on the size and ages of your family members, you may need to add in particular elements that will ensure everyone's safety. Here are five great tips for making your fire preparation plan the perfect one for your needs:

1. Find at Least Two Exit Routes
Work with each member of your family to help them understand that the most important thing they can do in the case of a fire is to get out. No matter where they are in the house, they should be able to identify two different ways to get outside. Windows are an option as well, so be sure to explain (and practice) the process of using them to escape.

2. Choose a Meeting Place Outside
Designate a safe place outside of the home as an area for family members to meet in the case of a home fire. This could be a curb side, a mailbox, or even a neighbor's house. Help your family know exactly where to go, even if they don't have anyone else with them during an emergency.

3. Practice "Stop, Drop and Roll"
An important piece of every fire escape plan is knowing what to do if the fire gets too close. If a family member's clothing catches on fire, their immediate reaction should be to "stop, drop and roll." Practice this with every family member to help them be prepared.

4. Keep Doors Closed
A closed door can actually help prevent smoke and fire spreading more quickly. Where possible, keep doors closed while people are sleeping.
Being prepared is the best thing you can do for your family. In addition to a great fire escape plan, it is also important to have the contact information of a trusted restoration company to make sure your home is taken care of after any emergency.

How To Ensure a Fire Sprinkler System Is in Good Shape

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

A fire sprinkler system is a vital piece of fire prevention for your company. The goal of a sprinkler system is to save lives from fire and to reduce property loss. As with most modern technology, sprinklers are finely calibrated and engineered mechanisms. They activate when sensors detect heat or smoke. Water-based systems then spray water onto the incipient fire and, if all goes well, douse the flames. For the system to work properly, all of its many components need to be in good shape and operational. The NFPA 25 document provides the standards for the maintenance and inspection of fire sprinkler systems, fire pumps, and standpipe systems.

Quality Fire Suppression

Few devices offer better fire protection than a sprinkler system installed in your company in. They must be designed, installed, and maintained to a high standard. An inspection should be conducted at regular intervals by knowledgeable personnel and should include the following components:

• Gauges
• Pipes and fittings
• Sprinkler heads
• Valves
• Connections
• Switches
  
  

Equipment should also be tested on a regular basis. If any irregularities are found, they should be fixed or the component should be replaced. Inspections and tests are also a good time to repair any errors from the installation process. A quality maintenance program ensures the integrity of the system and makes sure it will work as intended in an emergency.

Professional Fire Mitigation
Even a brief fire in your building can produce significant damage. A local fire remediation company can arrive on your property in less than four hours and begin the restoration process. If the sprinkler system went off, the technicians will begin a fire sprinkler cleanup. This involves removing the water from the building and drying out the property and the contents. If the fire sprinkler system worked as intended, the building is likely to have suffered very little fire damage. However, smoke and soot damage may still need to be cleaned up.

Choosing Professional Fire Restoration For Your Home

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

As a homeowner, you come to appreciate all of the various disasters and natural events that could adversely affect your residence. While you work hard to prevent these things from having a dramatic toll on the structural integrity of your property or ruining your possessions, it is not effective for all of the potential threats that you face. Fire, for example, can spark up from any number of circumstances and within a short period, can cause untold damage to your home.

Finding your home at the mercy of fire is nothing that any homeowner wants to experience. With the wide array of fire damage that could result from the unfortunate circumstance, your home might seem unsalvageable once the blaze gets extinguished. Fortunately, these effects are not something that you have to face alone. Our SERVPRO professionals can help you to overcome this widespread damage and reclaim your home's original condition quickly.

When our team arrives at your house following the initial call, our estimator is one of the first to get a good look at the damage that you face. Their job here is to assess the full scope of the damage, what contents of your home require further concentrated cleaning and restoration, what services are necessary for restoration, the personnel required, and finally, what areas and items are unsalvageable.

Our SERVPRO professionals often have to overcome secondary damages before the restoration can officially begin. Instances like water damage left behind from the extinguishment provide a hurdle to get past before work can begin on the rest of the affected areas. Through soot/smoke cleaning, deodorization, material removal and more, our certified restoration technicians work systematically to deal with every lingering effect directly.

Finding yourself staring at the effects of a recent fire in your home can leave you stressed and overwhelmed about what it takes to get your home back to preloss conditions. If you put your trust in our SERVPRO of Texarkana fire restoration technicians, this often massive project does not have to rest on your shoulders alone. Give us a call anytime that you need us at (903) 832-4400.

Click here for more about Oakland.

Six Classifications of Fire Damage

3/17/2022 (Permalink)

The Six Classes of Fire Damage: Your Quick Reference Guide

Although no one wants to experience a fire in their office or home, you never know when this unwanted disaster could transpire. Whether the disaster transpires because of a brush fire or bad electrical wiring, your property could suffer a wide range of adverse, inconveniencing outcomes. There are six classes of fire damage that your property can be subjected to. Learn more about these classes by reviewing the quick reference guide that appears below:

 Six Classes of Fire Damage

1. Class A

This type of fire damage results from combustible items in your household such as rubber, plastics, paper, and wood.

 2. Class B

Class B damages pertain to damage that results from liquids. It can also include solid items that became liquefied. Examples include paints, waxes, petrol, and gasoline. This class of fire damage does not include deterioration resulting from cooking liquids such as corn oil.

3. Class C

This type of fire damage results from flammable gasses. Some flammable gasses include hydrogen, methane, acetylene, and propane.

4. Class D

This kind of fire damage results from combustible metals. Some of them include magnesium, potassium, and titanium. This class is not common given that metals typically direct heat away from the fire.

5. Class E

Class E is a fire damage category that includes electrical equipment while also incorporating the materials from categories A and B. In addition to generating distinct types of damage, this class of fire damage makes it much more challenging to fight the fire.

6. Class F

Class F fire damage results from unsaturated cooking materials such as fats and oils.

Finding The Right Fire Damage Restoration Company

Irrespective of the category of fire damage that surfaces on your property, it is important for you to attain high-quality restoration services as soon as possible. To ensure that you attain the cutting edge, customized fire damage restoration services that you need and deserve, make sure the company you select possesses all of the following attributes:

• A good Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating

• IICRC-certified technicians

• Excellent customer service

• Good online reviews

When you find that your company has been impacted by fire, don't wait. Instead, accelerate and optimize the recovery process by attaining the best restoration services on the block. As a company with more than 60 years of industry experience and 1,650 franchises, the professionals of SERVPRO have built a strong reputation for consistently offering clients the excellent, expedient fire damage restoration services they deserve.

 Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of San Leandro is strategically located to respond quickly to your flood and water emergency event. When fire damage occurs in Texarkana, we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today! (903) 832-4400.

Will Air Quality Throughout My Interior Be an Issue?

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Due to the soot and smoke particles left behind from a blaze, indoor air quality (IAQ) is always a concern. Along with smoke and soot, moisture left from water extinguishing the flames can bring the potential for mold and mildew. When left to fester, mold brings possible health effects for your family. We have skilled IAQ technicians at SERVPRO who can ensure the right equipment and products are used to restore air quality throughout the project. We can ensure your interior has breathable air between our methods and industrial-grade filtration while also battling microbial contamination and stubborn smoke odors.

Some of the tools we use to balance IAQ include:

Air Scrubbers: Air scrubber equipment reduces the debris and particulates from the surrounding air while cutting back on microorganism threats that pose a problem with moist conditions. This equipment pulls in contaminated air and traps airborne debris before putting out clean air.

Hydroxyl Generators: This is equipment with dual-action, working to deodorize your home's interior by chemically altering odor-causing compounds while working on purifying the air through filtration. Some units feature onboard activated charcoal filters that embed airborne molecules.

What Can Be Done to Restore My Fire-Damaged

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

Although a fire’s impact might initially seem insurmountable, there are things an experienced remediation service can do to effectively clean up and rehabilitate your property.

When your house burns, the combustion process affects both your home’s interior air and surfaces throughout it. Therefore, fire damage restoration experts must take measures to address both of these issues. When cleaning interior air, technicians generally:

• Employ cutting edge air movers to remove smoke and related odors
• Filter interior air with scrubbers
• Use Ozone machines and Vaportek systems to eliminate unpleasant smells
• Work to prevent odorous particles from spreading around your residence by cleaning HVAC ducts with specialized equipment

Other innovative methods and gear are used to restore fire-damaged surfaces in your home, which include:

• Using dry cleaning sponges to wipe away non-grease residues
• Scraping away charred residues with abrasive blasting or wire brushes
• Removing thick combustion remnants from delicate surfaces with the peroxide active cleaning method
• Employing advanced foggers and injection devices to deodorize impacted surfaces/materials 

With all that said, if you ever need assistance restoring fire-related damage, call your helpful neighbors at SERVPRO of Texarkana at (903) 832-4400.

Can a Home Be Returned to Like-New Condition After a Fire?

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

The impact of a fire, large or small, can be extremely devastating for your family. It is not uncommon to feel lost while not knowing what steps to take next. The good news is that SERVPRO is available to come to your home for emergency service seven days a week, 24 hours a day. All you have to do is give us a call, and we will have a crew arrive at the front door of your property in as little as a few hours. We work hard to bring your home back to pre-fire condition so that you can enjoy your surroundings again. Even if you feel as though all is lost, we do have the restoration techniques and workforce to provide unmatched results.

What Should Happen After the Fire?

After the flames get extinguished, you must wait for approval from first responders on the scene to enter safely. Once you contact SERVPRO to clean up fire damage, our team arrives, and the crew chief begins the assessment. During the initial inspection and walkthrough, we note the damage to formulate a plan that utilizes the best equipment and restoration techniques for the job. We must work to restore and salvage whatever possible to save your cherished belongings while also saving you money.

Will Air Quality Throughout My Interior Be an Issue?

Due to the soot and smoke particles left behind from a blaze, indoor air quality (IAQ) is always a concern. Along with smoke and soot, moisture left from water extinguishing the flames can bring the potential for mold and mildew. When left to fester, mold brings possible health effects for your family. We have skilled IAQ technicians at SERVPRO who can ensure the right equipment and products are used to restore air quality throughout the project. We can ensure your interior has breathable air between our methods and industrial-grade filtration while also battling microbial contamination and stubborn smoke odors.

Clothes Dryer Fire

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the leading cause of home clothes dryer fires is the failure to clean them. SERVPRO of Texarkana responds to many fire damage emergencies every year and know that even a small fire can cause a lot of damage to a home.

Here are some safety tips from the NFPA to help minimize the chance of having a clothes dryer fire:

• Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional.
• Do not use the dryer without a lint filter.
• Make sure you clean the lint filter before or after each load of laundry. Remove lint that has collected around the drum.
• Rigid or flexible metal venting material should be used to sustain proper airflow and drying time.
• Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating.
• Keep dryers in good working order. Gas dryers should be inspected by a qualified professional to make sure that the gas line and connection are intact and free of leaks.
• Make sure the right plug and outlet are used and that the machine is connected properly.
• Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and don’t overload your dryer.
• Turn the dryer off if you leave home or when you go to bed.

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO of Texarkana responds to fire damage emergencies in Texarkana 24-hours a day. Call us today at 903-832-4400.

SERVPRO of Texarkana is Independently Owned and Operated.

Cleaning Up Fire Damage

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO for Fire Damage Repairs

If your home has recently been damaged by fire, you understandably are eager to get started improving the property so that life can resume as soon as possible. A fire may make certain areas of your home unusable until the fire damage has been repaired, or it may make the entire home unsafe to be in until the cleanup and repair work is completed. Regardless of how significant or minor the work is, you may want to know how long it will take. The timeline is dependent on not only, the restorative process, but also if any remodeling is included in the final product.

Getting the Repair Work Started
It can be difficult to determine how and where to get started with fire damage repair work for Alameda residents The first step in the repair process is to remove water from the home if firefighters used water during the extinguishing process. Perhaps, a kitchen fire left chemical residue for cleanup. Water extraction can be completed by the professionals from SERVPRO with minimal time and effort. We arrive with our green vehicles stocked with equipment, and supplies to surmount any cleaning and restoration need. Then, you can begin the repair process and decide which items need to be replaced and which ones need to be repaired. We can suggest to you and your adjuster what items and materials are salvageable. Keep in mind that smoke damage can also be a problem, and some items, such as carpeting, and the HVAC system may need to be professionally cleaned to remove the smoke odor from the home. 

Repairing your home after you have suffered fire damage is not something that you want to attempt on your own. A fire damage restoration project requires a considerable amount of time and energy to complete. But, SERVPRO of Texarkana can help you restore your property in minimal time with minimal costs. Our IICRC certified technicians have the skills and assets to do a full restoration. We are a locally owned and operated fire damage repair franchise that is ready to begin working for you. We can also help with mold, storm, or water damaging events to your property. Call us today for 24/7 emergency assistance at (903) 832-4400

Our Technicians Have The Proper Cleaning Supplies To Handle Your Fire

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Fires in the upper levels of your home can occur as a result of candles, cigarettes, or other naked flames. These situations can escalate when flames latch onto to dry fabrics or natural materials like paper. While often low pressure, these fires can produce significant amounts of smoke, which rise upwards into empty air pockets. On reaching the loft, a fire can start to cause severe damage as it ignites materials like cellulose insulation.

You may find significant smoke residues and soots in your loft, becoming an odor issue that spreads the scent of fire damage throughout your home. These are challenging to remove because there is naturally restrictive access in your loft space, which rules out equipment SERVPRO would traditionally use. Any possessions in your attic may suffer contamination from falling soots, and ventilation systems may also suffer.

Loft inspection is a standard part of fire damage restoration. SERVPRO technicians can enter through the hatch and perform pre-testing on the various materials inside. Depending on the size of your loft space, we may be able to set-up air-scrubbers or other filtration devices to remove malodors entirely from the area. However, providing these devices with sufficient power and room to work may be difficult.

When there are access limitations, SERVPRO technicians can utilize specialist devices. In an odorous loft space, water-based ultra-low volume misters may be a solution. Misters differ from fogging equipment because they release vapor at a slower, more maneuverable rate. They can disperse either deodorant solutions or sealants, which can be particularly useful in small spaces, structural components, ventilation ducts, and crawlspaces.

A ULV Mister works by releasing deodorant or sealant particles. These particles are as small as 40 to 60 microns- about half the size of a human hair. Their small size means they can penetrate even the tightest of spaces to neutralize odors. By combining misters with air-movers, SERVPRO can increase the amount of time deodorant particles are suspended, thus making them more efficient and effective. By placing covering and mats, we can mitigate against potential water staining.

Removing stubborn odors in tight spaces is a challenge that does not disappear by itself. Contact SERVPRO of Texarkana at 903-832-4400

Why Fast Fire Damage Remediation Prevents Secondary Issues

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Once you have a fire in your home, you should never try performing a self-assessment to try and determine the cleanup necessary to get everything back to normal. Working with the professionals to address your fire restoration needs helps you to make sure that the restoration process runs as safely and efficiently as possible. You can count on our team of trained restoration professionals to come up with the best course of action for your post-fire cleanup. 

It is best to remember that the fire damage that your home suffers may not be visible to the naked eye. A fire can leave behind potential risks or hazards to your health along with safety issues that the expertise that our team at SERVPRO possesses for restoration. We are happy to come out to your home and perform a full assessment to determine any hidden dangers and to put together a solid plan of action for cleanup and repair. 

After extinguishing the flames of a house fire, there is secondary damage that comes from water during the firefighting efforts. We can employ thermal imaging technology to find hidden moisture so that we catch mold and mildew before it has the chance to grow and fester. Our trained SERVPRO estimator helps to determine the full scope of the damage, take photographic evidence for your insurance provider, and work on estimating restoration costs – all while keeping safety in mind. 

Once extinguishing the fire, dry smoke can be easier to clean off because it does not stick to surfaces as wet smoke does. Wet smoke adheres to many surfaces and makes it difficult to clean with traditional methods. In cases where items are laden with wet smoke damage, we will make suggestions on what is salvageable and what needs disposing. 

For the walls in your home, they could look clean yet hold foul odors after a fire. Hot air expands during a fire, and it forces smoke residue into the paint. SERVPRO technicians can try to use solvent-based cleaning products to remove the residue. However, if these products do not work, we can then suggest a sealant to help restore the wall to smell and looking like new again. 

SERVPRO Talks Fire Damage Restoration

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

If an inferno ever ignites inside your home in Oakland, the problems created can be more than just dealing with the items that got burnt. A professional restoration company like SERVPRO knows that after an inferno ignites, a large portion of the fire damage caused can be the result of soils and soot residues left behind by the smoke generated during the blaze. Soot can coat several of your contents and building materials.

When deciding how to clean soot residues after you suffer from fire damage, our SERVPRO technicians figure out if the negatively affected surfaces are porous or non-porous. Porous surfaces can retain moisture, which can create more issues if the water causes the soot to soak more in-depth into the materials. Therefore, we clean surfaces made from materials like drywall or fabric using dry techniques such as sponge cleaning. Our technicians' clean non-porous surfaces like glossy painted drywall or hardwood floors using water-based detergents.

When cleaning non-porous surfaces, our SERVPRO crew has a variety of options. Wet cleaning can be accomplished by using foam, abrasive, or spray and wipe cleaning methods.

Spray and Wipe

This method allows the restorer to control the amount of chemical being applied by putting on affected surfaces as a mist. Once we spray your soot-coated surfaces, we then wiper them with a clean towel to remove the soils from your affected items.

Foam Cleaning

These types of products use the foam of the chemical to clean. Foam cleaning works well when cleaning upholstery because the substances do not soak into the material. We can apply foam detergents to surfaces using a brush.

Abrasive Cleaning

Abrasive methods involve using agitation to remove soot from your affected building materials or contents. One type of abrasive cleaning is when a chemical contains particles like sand that create an agitation process. Another method is using a rough application tool such as steel wool to apply the detergent to the affected surfaces.

Soot residues coating the surfaces of your possessions and structural components can be challenging to remove. Therefore, if a fire ever devastates your home, call SERVPRO of Texarkana 903-832-4400 24/7. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Why Fire Damage Keeps Your Family Out

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

House fires have many different causes, and one of these causes includes children sneaking off to play with matches or lighters out of curiosity.

Children playing with fire-causing materials are not the only source of fire damage of course. However, keeping lighters, matches, and other items in safe locations is one way to prevent some fires. Children who visit your home can be a source of these items, so keeping an eye on children playing with your own son or daughter can also decrease any risk. After a fire starts in a home, the cause is often determined by the fire department simply as a matter of their standard operations.

Once a house fire has been put out, SERVPRO can begin the restoration work needed to get the displaced family back home and able to renew their regular routines. Without this work, families are often not allowed to live in the home, and even obtaining basic items from the house can be cautioned against attempting. Structural damage, air quality, and other possible risks can pose ongoing hazards to those who are inside.

Fire causes many different problems in a home, including areas that never saw any actual fire or flames.
- Smoke travels steadily but quickly, and can completely fill a house entirely, leaving behind ashes, soot, and odors everywhere. Stirring up these remnants of the fire can aggravate breathing problems in some individuals, inducing asthma attacks.
- Charring and partial burning can leave structures looking as if there was little damage to them when the opposite is true, leaving them ready to topple over or crash down with only a little bit of additional weight.
- Electrical power is often disconnected to a home, and with boarded-up windows, even daytime ventures inside can be dark and hazardous.
- Water is to be expected after a fire has been extinguished, but it is often present in the form of higher humidity and moisture-laden materials and possessions. This can add to any structural damage of floors already sustained.

SERVPRO technicians make assessments of the entire home based on their IICRC training and extensive experience. These evaluations give them the information to not only protect themselves from existing hazards but also help determine the quickest way to restore your home to livable standards again.

SERVPRO of Texarkana can restore your home from all of these problems that come with fire damage. We are local and can be reached at 903-832-4400 at any hour, day or night, every day of the year.

The Furry of Fire

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring your property to its previous condition may seem like an impossible feat to tackle as you look at the disaster. However, with a fire restoration company such as SERVPRO of Texarkana helping you, our knowledge and experience can help get your building looking its best and back into operational condition... "Like it never even happened."

Fire and smoke damage can be caused by a number of reasons. One of the most prominent smoke and fire source begins with faulty electrical wiring. Since people can forget to turn off an electric appliance, or create sparks when using electrical powered tools, human error is also high on the list as a common factor in fires. The damage caused by smoke and soot can lead to significant loss (sometimes greater damage than was caused by the fire flames). That’s why it’s critical to find a trusted restoration company such as SERVPRO of Texarkana. From immediately after the fire through the recovery process, you’ll feel comforted knowing that they’ll work diligently to clean and restore your property to its pre-fire state.

Your One-Stop Shop for Smoke and Fire Restoration
We recognize the physical and emotional stress that comes with commercial fire damage.  Our team of experts empathizes with the property owners, company owners and employees who are in the midst of a crisis, and we will guide you every step of the way. From structural repairs and content restoration to soot cleaning and odor control, you can count on our services. We are a licensed contractor with a host of licensed sub-contractors who help us solve fire damage problems.

One of our sub-contractor specialists can help repair and restoration office equipment and even heavy manufacturing equipment.

We are one of the leading fire damage restoration cleaning facilities in this area. We have a large in-house smoke cleaning and deodorizing facility. We take pride in our work. 

We SERVPRO of Texarkana and are ready to help you where ever you need us. Just call: 903-832-4400

What Smoke Damage Affects in Your Home After a Fire

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

One of the biggest problems that homeowners face after a fire in their home (regardless of size and severity) is a lingering odor that is challenging to remove. Professional restoration techniques are usually very effective in breaking apart this noxious odor and leaving no scent behind, but better understanding the nature of this effect from the fire is important.

Regardless of how fire damages occurred in your home, you work quickly to hire the right professional restoration team to take care of the problem and get your home back to the way it used to be. Our SERVPRO team of technicians can help you to overcome all of the obstacles in bringing your home back to preloss conditions, including the deodorization of affected areas and items.

Open areas can often harbor much of this persistent smoke damage and harsh odor following a fire in your home. SERVPRO technicians work to break apart these odor molecules using various pieces of equipment, ultimately leaving no odor behind at all.

Another problem area for the smoke damage to seep into is the carpeting of your home. Since the carpets act as a natural magnet for dirt and debris, this same magnetism helps them to store these odors inside the fibers and into the base of the material. Premier carpet cleaning and deep cleansing approaches by our technicians help to remove the soot and smoke damages.

Another problem area to trap smoke odors is furniture and fabrics in the affected areas. Upholstery and drapes can hold on to this harsh odor long after the fire has gotten extinguished and require specific deodorization techniques to relinquish it.

Understanding the effects of a fire in your home can help you to understand better the processes required to remove them and restore the area they have affected. Choosing the right professional restoration company can help you to overcome these obstacles and get left with high-quality restorative work. Rely on our SERVPRO of Texarkana experienced technicians to respond quickly and clean up the mess and restore the damages your home has experienced. Give us a call today at (903)832-4400.

Safety Tips when using Candles

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

Although fires from candles happen more often around the holidays, many people use candles all year round. SERVPRO of Texarkana wants you to be safe from fire and smoke damage. It is important to be careful any time you have an open flame in your Texarkana home. 

Fire Prevention is the best way to fight against fire damage or injuries.

SERVPRO of Texarkana  offers these Tips for Fire Prevention from Candles:

• Do not let children near candles
• Keep trees and other plants away from candles
• Make sure candles are not near window curtains or blinds that could catch fire
• Keep lit candles in safe candle holders
• Do not leave children alone in a room with lit candles
• Do not light candles in the bedroom. You might fall asleep. One-third of all candle fires start in the bedroom. 
• If the power goes out, use flashlights instead of candles
• If someone in the home uses oxygen, do not use candles
• Fire damage from candles happens 35 times a day in the U.S.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire
• Put out candles when leaving the room or going to bed

A little caution goes a long way to protect you and your loved ones. If you have to deal with damage caused by smoke or fire from a candle in your San Diego home, your friends at SERVPRO of Texarkana are just a phone call away. 

SERVPRO of Texarkana is independently owned and operated

How to Prevent Fire Damage from Grills

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

We all know what that means, it is time to fire up those grills! We all love the smells of freshly grilled hamburgers and hotdogs but if you aren’t careful, that smell you are experiencing could be the smell of fire damage! SERVPRO of Birmingham has seen fire damage and smoke damage caused by the early celebrations of springtime. Did you know that according to the National Fire Protection Association, gas grills cause more home fires than charcoal grills? According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, 64% of households own a gas grill, 44% own a charcoal grill and 9% own an electric grill. A good grill master knows that being unaware of grill safety can be a factor for seasonal fires. Below are some tips we got from our friends at Nationwide to ensure your grill season is a safe one! Grill Safety Tips:

• Grill away from any structure.
• Make sure your grill is stable.
• Keep your grill clean.
• Check for propane leaks.
• If the flame goes out, wait five minutes before relighting.
• Keep an eye on what is going on around the grill.
• Be cautious when using a charcoal starter fluid.
• Don't wear loose clothing or clothing that can dangle.
• Be prepared to put out a fire.

If your property is affected by fire damage or smoke damage, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Texarkana at 903.832.4400.

Smoke Webs

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know?

Residues (such as burning plastics or the soot from furnace disorders) form long chains of ionized smoke particles that assemble in corners or at junctions of walls and ceilings which are called smoke webs!

The picture is from a fire damage that our large loss division assisted with out of state. The building had 35,000 square feet that was affected, it took our team a few weeks to completely clean the facility. 

Does your business have a plan? Check out these tips:

Protect your people : Your employees are your most important business asset. These tips can help prevent them from being injured in a fire.

• Fire Plans: Make sure your employees know what to do if there's a fire, including calling 911 immediately. Conduct a fire drill at least once a year to keep employees aware of your workplace fire safety protocol. 
• Evacuation Plan: In larger buildings, post a fire evacuation plan in several spots around the workplace. Never include elevators in an evacuation plan; always use the stairs. 
• First Aid: In case of fire injuries, your employees should be familiar with the location of the first-aid kit, which should be kept where possible hazards can occur most-such as in the kitchen.

Help Prevent Heat Related Fires

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

It’s going to get cold again here soon…

Besides using the fireplace to stay warm some people use alternative sources such as portable space heaters, and wood burning stoves. Heating equipment is the cause for many residential fires annually, causing deaths, injury and property damage. Here are some tips to help you reduce the risk of a heating-related fire:

-Keep flammable items at least three feet away from heating equipment

-Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters, or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturers instructions

-Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed

-Plug space heaters directly into outlets, never into an extension cord or power strip.

-Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters

-Install and maintain carbon monoxide and smoke alarms inside your home and business.

-Test alarms monthly

-Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional

-Make sure fireplaces have a screen to help prevent sparks

-Make sure ashes are cool before putting them in a metal container

For more information on safety tips call your local fire department.

Content Restoration after Fire Damage

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

CONTENTS RESTORATION

From furniture to antiques to artwork and appliances, we'll treat your treasures with the care they deserve. While some items can be cleaned on-site, in many cases we'll need to inventory, pack out and transport the contents of your property to our state-of-the-art facility to ensure the best care possible.

Key Issues

• Contents may need to be cleaned off-site
• Contents inventory
• Determine replacement and restoration
• Pack
• Ozone treatment
• Cleaning
• Odor removal
• Secure
• Return

Contents Inventory

• We arrive on-site and inventory all of your personal belongings.
• We carefully pack all salvable items to transport to our secure warehouse and cleaning facility.
• Unsalvageable contents are inventoried and discarded.

Contents Valuation

We have trained professionals to help you establish replacement values versus restoration costs. We are also available for pricing of non-salvable inventory items.

Restoration

• Thorough cleaning
• Proper handling of all electronics
• Photographs and artwork
• Fabrics
• Clothes
• Memorabilia
• Antiques
• Soft goods
• Dry Cleaning
• Appliances
• Surfaces
• Odor Removal

Fire Safety Tips

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Tips For Fire Safety:

1. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.

2. Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, change the batteries.

3. Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.

4. If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone.

Here are some tips on WHAT TO DO AFTER A FIRE:

1. Call 9-1-1. Give first aid where needed; cool and cover burns to reduce the chance of further injury or infection.

2. 
   

   Let friends and family know you’re safe.

3. 
   

   People and animals that are seriously injured or burned should be transported to professional medical or veterinary help immediately.

4. 
   

   Stay out of fire-damaged homes until local fire authorities say it is safe to re-enter.

Give Soot The Boot

5/18/2021 (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.

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 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

• 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 – 903-832-4400.

Smoke and Soot

5/10/2021 (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.

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 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

• 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 –903-832-4400

Fire? Let Us Clean Up For You

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Texarkana, is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

How To Recover After A Fire

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire, making sure all of your valuables and personal belongings are clean of all smoke and soot is your top priority, therefore it is our top priority.

This is no easy task:

First, we start with inventorying your content and separating the salvageable from the non-salvageable. Second, we carefully pack up the salvageable content from the home to take it to our secured warehouse, where we start the cleaning process. Next, we unpack the items, clean them, and repack them into new, fresh boxes. Now that the contents have been individually cleaned and re-boxed, they can be put into our Ozone room where our ozone generator is able to take any additional smoke smell out of the material. Finally, we will bring your items back "Like it never even happened."

If you are in need of fire restoration, give us a call at 903-832-4400

Local Commercial Apartment Fire

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

Cleaning takes a lot of knowledge, experience and manpower to do the job right. Our crews are properly trained and certified in all these areas and are ready 24/7.

This apartment fire started in the kitchen on the stove affecting the entire apartment. SERVPRO of Texarkana was called to access the damages and restore the property. Our teams cleaned the structure, and deodorized the apartment. 

Choose SERVPRO of Texarkana, the Professional Company that specializes in fire, water, mold and storm damage restoration. We are Here to Help and ready to respond to your needs if any of these conditions arise in Rankin County.

SERVPRO of Texarkana is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week & 365 days a year (including holidays) for fire board-up and other emergencies. Our team makes sure your situation is handled correctly and professionally to minimize discomfort, inconvenience, and unnecessary additional costs.

 Call us 903-832-4400

The Impact Of Smoking In Your Home

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

It is common knowledge that smoking has negative consequences on your health, but it can also be dangerous to your home.

Fire Danger

Smoking is the leading cause of death in home fires.  Fires caused by smoking is most common in bedrooms and living rooms where flammable items such as carpet, blankets, and furniture are exposed.

Resale Value

Homes occupied by someone who smokes regularly are much more difficult to sell.  On average, house value decreases by nearly 29%. The smell left behind by cigarettes can get trapped in cupboards, vents, and even the ceiling.

While exceedingly difficult, it is possible to reduce and potentially get rid of the smell of smoke in your home.  Thoroughly cleaning the walls and ceilings, followed by a deep cleaning of the carpet and floors is the first step.  It may also be necessary to professionally clean the air ducts to prevent the smell from continuing to circulate throughout your home.

Did a Kitchen Fire Leave a Foul Odor in Your Home?

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

A small mistake can have significant consequences for your home. Even something as small as forgetting to turn off your stove when leaving your house can result in you returning to flames in your kitchen. After extinguishing the fires, you may find that smoke and soot residue has permeated into kitchen surfaces. Without professional assistance, residues from fire smoke can be tough to remove. 

SERVPRO Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certified technicians have experience in fire damage clean up and assist you in cleaning your home. Once we arrive, our techs can begin removing any damaged structural components and debris. Fires leave soot and smoke residue that can fill your house with pungent, unpleasant odors. We use vacuums to suck up any loose odor particles in your home; however, odor particles often penetrate deep into surfaces, forcing us to use deodorizers. We can apply deodorizers in all affected areas of your home to remove smells caused by any remaining particles. Our techs can carefully spray deodorizers in a pattern resembling how odors initially spread through your home, ensuring that the deodorizers penetrate areas containing the remaining odor particles. 

Fires often leave a smelly oily residue which can resist cleaning. SERVPRO fire and smoke damage technicians can spray down cooking surfaces with cleaning agents that weaken the bond between the residue and the kitchen surface, allowing us to wash it off. More permeable surfaces such as table cloths and curtains can absorb more residue and can be more resistant to cleaning, requiring more careful and focused cleaning. 

Fires are difficult to recover from, and can often have long-lasting odors that cannot be mitigated with every day cleaning products. Residues can bond too tightly to surfaces, and odors can penetrate deep inside your home. For professional and effective fire damage mitigation, call SERVPRO of Texarkana at 903-832-4400. We are available 24/7 and can make you feel "Like it never even happened."

Electrical Fires

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

Each year, there are 40,000 residential fires due to electrical wiring, claiming more than 350 lives, causing thousands of injuries from shocks and burns, creating 2 million and personal property damage. Electrical receptacles are responsible for 40 deaths and 5,300 fires.

Electricity is our most mysterious form of energy. You can’t see it, hear it or smell it, but you sure can feel it!

Electricity seeks the easiest path to the ground, trying to find a conductor, such as metal, wet wood, or water. Humans are conductors, since 70% of the body is water. So, if a person touches an energized bare wire or faulty equipment while grounded, electricity will instantly pass through the body to the ground, causing a harmful, potentially fatal shock.

Don’t Be Shocked:

• It is estimated that 70% electrocutions could be prevented.
• 32% of all deaths caused by residential electrical systems are as a result of faulty cords and plugs.
• Electrical burns to the mouth accounted for half of the injuries to young to your children.
• Electricity can kill in one second.

Treat electricity with the respect it deserves. Never assume anything! If you experience an electrical fire, please call the professionals at SERVPRO of Texarkana. We have years of know-how dealing with homes and businesses that have had extensive fire, soot and smoke damage, and we know what it takes to restore your residential or commercial property, “Like it never even happened.” Call us 24 hours a day, no job is too small to big for our team. We are always here to help at 903-832-4400.

Candle Safety

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

Do you enjoy that fresh baked apple pie or evergreen candle smell?

Before Lighting – here are some tips on candle burning safety. 

• Trim the wick to ¼ inch each time before burning. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping or flaring.
• Always use a candleholder 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.
• Place the candle-holder on a stable, heat-resistant surface. This will also help prevent possible heat damage to counters and table surfaces and prevent glass containers from cracking or breaking.
• Keep the wax pool clear of wick trimmings, matches and debris at all times.
• Avoid drafts, vents or air currents. This will help prevent rapid or uneven burning, soot, and excessive dripping.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on burn time and proper use.

Holiday Fire Prevention

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

The Holiday season is right around the corner, and I personally love this time of year, the weather is cooler and it seems as though everyone is in a good mood. Christmas trees are alight along with fires and candles filling our homes with the warm smells of Christmas.

But that also means a higher risk of fire danger, between candles, decorations, and Christmas trees - it’s one of the most dangerous times of the year. For example, with the invention of artificial trees Christmas Tree fires are not very common, however they can be very serious when they do occur. On average one in every 32 home Christmas tree fires reported resulted in a death compared to the average of one in every 143 regular home fires. When it comes to Christmas tree fires they are started, usually, by a heat source set a little too close to the tree.

When it comes to candle usage, December is the peak time for fires. 12% of fires at home started with candles during the Christmas month, with the top three days for candle fires in the home to be Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.

To protect your home from a fire this holiday season make sure to never leave a room unattended with a candle in it, and never leave anything that could possibly be a heat source near your Christmas tree.

From your friends down at SERVPRO of Texarkana we wish you Happy Holidays!

Types of Fire and Smoke Damage

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Well there are 3 main types of smoke and residues that can be left behind by fire damage in your home:

Synthetic: These synthetic residues appear when oil based materials are burned such as plastics and fabrics. This could include everything from window coverings, furniture, carpets, and electronics. When synthetic materials burn they will produce a thick black smoke, leaving behind a smeary residue that can create quite the mess if not cleaned up properly. In these situations avoid touching any of the residue to prevent smearing.

Protein: Fires caused by the burning of proteins such as meats and beans for example will leave behind a yellowish brown residue. The texture of which is greasy feeling and can stick to any surface, making it a pain to clean up. 

Natural: These type of fires are caused by the burning of natural products such as wood and paper. They produce dry powdery residue that is greyish-black in color. These residues are easier to clean up than the synthetic or protein residues. 

If you have any smoke damage that you need cleaned, call SERVPRO of Texarkana at 903-832-4400.

Who Do You Call When Fire Damage Overtakes Your Texarkana Home

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

Fires can be a devastating force to your Texarkana home. Sometimes one of the worst effects fire can leave behind comes less from the flames and more from the extinguishing efforts of the dedicated firefighting teams in the area that put out the blaze. Depending on the severity of the structural fire to your home, extinguishing might have taken quite a lot of water and time to achieve. This scenario can result in a lot of water damage on top of the fire restoration that you already need.

While this is often a lesser considered fire damage aspect to Texarkana homes, excessive water damage is often the result that many families have to deal with before proper fire restoration service can even begin. Fortunately, you have a local restoration company at your disposal that can help you deal with all aspects of fire and water restoration. Our SERVPRO technicians have the experience and state-of-the-art equipment to give you back the home you had before the fire ever started.

When our SERVPRO restoration specialists arrive at your home to begin assessing the damage, our concentration lies in preventing further damage from occurring. Our team boards up broken windows and tarps over holes that might have gotten created from the fire or the extinguishing efforts, successfully protecting your home. This process prevents elemental damage from occurring while the inside restoration process is getting completed.

To successfully restore your home from it's fire damage, water restoration has to get accomplished first. Our specialists utilize pump trucks and portable pump devices to quickly extract all present pooled water from your floors throughout the affected area. Once drying efforts are a success from combining both dehumidification and air moving equipment, our focus can switch back to assessing the fire damage present in your home.

While there are many stages to successfully restoring your home after a devastating fire, choosing the right restoration team can take a lot of stress and worry off your shoulders. When you are facing fire damage in your home, call SERVPRO of Texarkana. We can be reached anytime at (903) 832-4400.

Soot Damage and IICRC Certification

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage can be devastating to personal property and structures. Swift action is the only way to minimize the destruction.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, IICRC, is a globally recognized organization whose mission is to establish higher industry standards. As a referral source for consumers, IICRC certified firms are more likely to provide a faster, better service  than non-certified competitors.

Immediately after a fire, soot residue settles onto the property. Discoloration of porous materials is permanent, but other surfaces may be properly cleaned to remove the discoloration. Acidic soot begins staining other surfaces if not treated quickly.

Within hours all surfaces begin to suffer from fire and smoke damage. Wooden furniture may require refinishing. Metal begins to rust, pit and corrode. Painted walls begin to yellow. Clothing  can become permanently stained. And finally, flooring may require refinishing or replacement.

Prolonged soot exposure permanently harms all surfaces and embeds in fibers.

We Can Handle Any Size Fire Damage Disaster And Restore Your Home

9/24/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning Different Surfaces After Fire Damage

Fires deposit a lot of soot and other smoke debris on various surfaces. Most of this debris concentrates on walls and the ceiling of the property affected by the fire. When a fire burns, smoke-filled air rises because it is less dense than the cold air in the surroundings. This forces cooler air near the ceiling to flow downwards creating convection currents. This explains why most of the smoke residue settles on the ceiling and upper sections of the walls. By following the right procedures, removing such debris becomes easier.

Different approaches can help when cleaning fire damage. The method chosen might depend on the kind of finish on the surface. Typical finishes include paint, acoustic plaster, acoustic tile, textured plaster or metallic tile. Walls might also have fabrics, wallpaper, carpeting or flocking as covers but these are rarely used in ceilings. To ensure good results from the cleaning exercise, our SERVPRO technicians pretest the affected area for cleanability. We consider the soiling type to decide whether it requires wet or dry cleaning.

If a moderately soiled ceiling with non-greasy residue, dry cleaning is sufficient. This works for all types of ceiling materials. If there is heavy dry ash or medium-to-heavy oily residue on the ceiling, wet cleaning is the best. This method works well especially for metal and wood ceilings, or those with a paint finish. Our SERVPRO technicians also use peroxide active cleaning on textured, blown ceilings because highly aggressive wet cleaning can dissolve such finishes.

When choosing the cleaning process, it is crucial to put into account the steps that follow. If the surface requires repainting once the cleanup process is complete, the procedure followed is different from cleaning as a final step. When "cleaning for paint" our SERVPRO team focuses on removing all loose residues and neutralizing the acids in smoke deposits.

Cleaning a fire damaged property can be a tedious task. Call SERVPRO of Texarkana at (903) 832-4400 any time. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Dryer Machines Can Cause a Fire

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

It is essential to maintain a clothes dryer. The lint filter and dryer vents can be one of the most neglected areas we don't pay much attention to. Taking precautions to maintain the clothes dryer of your home or business can help prevent a catastrophe. 

A few tips that can help prevent a fire in your dryer machine: 

• Clean the lint screen often, lint can build up in the trap. 
• Check the back of the dryer for lint buildup. 
• Check for any damages to the venting system of the dryer. 
• Dyer machines should be installed and maintained by a certified professional. 

In the result of any fire or smoke damage, SERVPRO of Texarkana is a phone call away 903-832-4400. We are prepared to take the training and state of the art equipment we have to assist in the cleanup and restoration of a fire or smoke damaged home or business.

Fire Drill!

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

When there is a fire, everything becomes very chaotic in a short amount of time.  Here are some basic guidelines on what to do if a fire happens in your home or at your business.  Fires caused by electrical issues are the most common at this time.

Make sure that there is always clear and unobstructed pathway to the exit in case of fire.  Make sure your electrical cords are in good condition before you use them.  Make sure you don not overload electrical outlets.  

If you hear a fire alarm, always treat that as if there is a real fire.  If there is smoke in the air, stay low to the ground so you do not inhale smoke.  Crawl to the nearest exit with your hand along the wall so you do not become disorientated.  Once you are away from the fire and in a safe location, call emergency personnel.

Fire Damage

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

A loss after a fire is hard to recover from. Give us a call and let us be there for you.

Fire damage can be stressful and overwhelming.  A fire is something that nobody expects to happen to them.  When your home or business is covered in soot, it is never an easy sight to view.  The first thing you should do in this situation is notify your insurance company so you adjuster can get to your location as soon as possible to assess the damage and start your claim.  Then you need to call a reputable restoration company, such as SERVPRO of Texarkana at 903-832-4400.  Our team is able to board up windows and doors, tarp the roof, and begin the remediation process. Our team will assess the contents of the home in order to figure out what is salvageable and non-salvageable.  When this type of disasters strike, it is overwhelming for the home or business owner.  SERVPRO of Texarkana will walk you through this process and allow you to feel relief that you are in good hands. We will make it "Like it never even happened."

How To Get Smoke Odor Out of Fabric

7/10/2020 (Permalink)

If you suffered a fire in your home, then there’s a good chance that some of your fabric furniture smells like smoke. With harder, nonporous surfaces, you can usually remove the smoke odors with cleaning solutions. You’ll find removing smoke odors much more difficult when dealing with more porous surfaces like fabric couches, clothes, and rugs. So how does one remove smoke odors from porous surfaces like fabric furniture?

The Baking Soda Method

Using baking soda to eliminate smoke odors seems to be a popular method. The idea is to sprinkle baking soda onto the surface and the baking soda will absorb the odors. While this may work with surface odors, this doesn’t work well to get deep-seated smoke odors out of the foam cushions of sofas and the carpet pads under carpets.

Airing It Out

Another popular remedy to get the smoke out is to set the furniture or rug out in the fresh air. While this may work for a rug or thin fabric, it most likely won’t help with sofas and fabric furniture. Also due to the chemical nature of smoke, airing it out won’t cause the smoke particles to break down and the smoke odor to go away.

The Best Way to Remove Smoke Odor

If you are looking for the best and only way to remove smoke odor from fabrics and porous surfaces, then you will want to call a professional fire company like SERVPRO Texarkana. The professionals at SERVPRO of Texarkana have a machine called an ozone generator. An ozone generator creates ozone which is able to permeate porous surfaces and oxidize the substances that are causing the odor. An ozone generator creates a high level of ozone which is dangerous to humans which are why they are only used by professionals in unoccupied spaces like a sealed room or an empty house.

If you should suffer a house fire or have smoke or cigarette odors that you want to remove from your furniture or home, call the fire cleanup experts at SERVPRO of Texarkana at 903-832-4400 for 24-hour emergency service. At SERVPRO of Texarkana, we have specialized equipment, professional training, and certifications that allow us to restore your home to its pre-fire condition.

Structure Cleaning After a Fire

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

When fire damage affects your home or business SERVPRO of Texarkana is here to help. We have IICRC trained technicians that specialize in structure and content cleaning. One of the first processes in structure cleaning is to remove soot residue. We use dry sponges to remove the soot from the affected materials. In order to reach the high areas in the home we will attach the dry sponge to an extendable pole to reach. Then the sponge can be used to wipe down ceilings and walls of any soot that might be on the structure.  Soot residue has to be removed in order for the structure seal coat to stick.

You can depend on SERVPRO of Texarkana to have the right training and tools to get the job done. Call us today at 903-832-4400.

10 Key Causes of Catastrophic Fires

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

Unfortunately fires can happen.. We hope you never have to experience a fire, in case you do here are some ways to avoid a catastrophic fire. 

Fires devastate homes and businesses and cause damage in numerous ways. Not only is fire destructive, but it also leaves behind lingering and pervasive odors, also not to mention extensive water damage that results from the firefighter’s efforts to extinguish the flames. The professionals at SERVPRO of Texarkana, have the specialized training, equipment and experience that will restore your home or place of work back to the way it looked before or even better!

To increase the odds that you’ll stay safe, consider these Top 10 causes of fire. This information will help you plan how to make your home or business a safer place to be at!

1. Cooking: Avoid splattering grease, never leave kitchens unattended and keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
2. Heating Equipment: Have your furnace checked regularly and keep portable heaters away from combustibles.
3. Smoking: If you smoke in or near the house, always make sure the cigarette butt is fully put out and make the bedroom off-limits to smoking.
4. Electricity: Look out for frayed cords, the overuse of extension cords and overloaded outlets, and don’t run electrical wires under rugs or heavy furniture.
5. Candles: Never leave them unattended and keep them out of the reach of children or pets.
6. Children: Keep them away from matches and lighters to suppress any curiosity they may have about what happens when different items burn.
7. Inadequate wiring: It’s often found in older homes and apartments. Have a professional electrician check yours.
8. Flammable Liquids: Keep fuels, solvents, cleaning agents, thinners, adhesives, and paints away from heat sources.
9. Holiday Decor: Keep your Christmas tree well-watered and away from heat sources. Check decorative lights for damage and never place candles on or near Christmas trees.
10. Grills: Keep them away from your home, deck rails, tablecloths and tree limbs. And never use them indoors, including your garage.

SERVPRO of Texarkana has the knowledge, professional equipment and ability to eliminate all traces of a fire. Besides the easily accessible areas, we also examine wall cavities, duct work, crawl spaces and plumbing chases to establish whether they also suffered any smoke or fire damage. We will make sure that all fire damage is cleaned, repaired, or removed and leave your home or business "Like it never even happened." Because that is the SERVPRO way! 

The Importance of Smoke Alarms

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Don't wait, check yours now

Smoke Alarms Save Lives

Let’s get straight to the point Smoke alarms save lives. Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. If there is a fire in your home, smoke spreads fast and you need smoke alarms to give you time to get out. 

Here's what you need to know

• 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. 
• Larger 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. If the alarm still does not work replace the batteries, and if it still doesn’t work replace it.
• There are two kinds of alarms. Ionization smoke alarms are quicker to warn about flaming fires. Photoelectric alarms are quicker to warn about smoldering fires. It is best to use of both types of alarms in the home.
• When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside. Don’t wait, the life you and your family may be on the line.
• Replace all smoke alarms in your home every 10 years whether they are still working or not.

We Can Help You "Restore Not Replace" After a Fire

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

You've just had one of the worst days of your life due to a house fire and you finally get to go in and inspect the damage.  Luckily the fire started in the kitchen and the fire department got there before the whole house went up in flames... but the entire house is now filled with smoke and soot.  As well as all of your belongs, they are covered and stinky.  Did you know that SERVPRO of Texarkana can help with that?  We can get rid of the smoke smell and clean your belongings!

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition. We use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

Common Causes for House Fires

5/25/2020 (Permalink)

Common Causes of House Fires

There are several causes for house fires. Listed below you will see some of those causes.

 Cooking Equipment

Pots and pans can overheat and cause a fire very easily if the person cooking gets distracted and leaves cooking unattended. Always stay in the room, or ask someone to watch your food, when cooking on hotplates.

 Heating

Keep portable heaters at least one meter away from anything that could easily catch fire such as furniture, curtains, laundry, clothes and even yourself. If you have a furnace, get it inspected once a year to make sure it is working to safety standards.

 Smoking in bedrooms

A cigarette that is not put out properly can cause a flame, as the butt may stay lit for a few hours. If it meets any flammable materials such as furniture, it can burst into flames.

 Electrical Equipment

An electrical appliance, such as a toaster can start a fire if it is faulty or has a frayed cord. A power point that is overloaded with double adapter plugs can cause a fire from overuse of electricity.

 Candles

Candles look and smell pretty but if left unattended they can cause a room to easily burst into flames. Keep candles away from any obviously flammable items such as books and tissue boxes. Always blow a candle out before leaving a room.

 Faulty Wiring

Homes with inadequate wiring can cause fires from electrical hazards. Some signs to see if you have bad wiring are:

1) Lights dim if you use another appliance.

2) For an appliance to work, you must disconnect.

3) Fuses blow or trip the circuit frequently.

Have a licensed electrician come and inspect your house or contact your landlord if you have any of the above occurrences.

 Lighting

Lamp shades and light fittings can build up heat if they are very close to light globes.

Here at SERVPRO of Texarkana, no matter the type of fire loss or residue left, our highly trained professionals understand the behavior of smoke and the cleanup processes to best utilize during fire restoration services. We are ready for whatever happens 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call 903-832-4400.

Quick Fire Facts

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

Understanding how fires start and what you can do to quickly put them out is important to keeping you and your family safe. Check out these quick facts and stats to get a better understanding of how to avoid having fire damage in your home.

• About 50% of home fires are started by cooking accidents. Be sure you keep a fire extinguisher close at hand whenever you are working in the kitchen.
• Just above 15% of residential fires are caused by electrical malfunctions or issues with the heating system in the home. This is why it is extremely important to have your appliances checked often and keep up with their maintenance year-round.
• California, Texas, and Georgia lead the nation in fire deaths in 2016. Make sure you have a plan in place, so your family knows exactly what to do if a fire breaks out at home.

Being prepared plays a huge part of avoiding injury and death during a fire. Make a plan and be sure that everyone in the building is familiar with it so that if a fire breaks out, everyone knows exactly what to do.

If you have fire damage in your home, give us a call at 903-832-4400, and we will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Smoke and Soot Damage

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot can be very sneaky and invasive possibly causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience here at SERVPRO of Texarkana allows us to be able to assess the extent of the damage to develop a plan of action.

Smoke & Soot Facts:

Smoke flows around plumbing systems, it seeps through any holes used by your plumbing to go from floor to floor. Depending on what type of smoke it is may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

Wet & dry are the two different types of smoke. As a result, there are different types of soot residue following a fire.  Before any restoration begins, we will perform a test on the soot to determine what type of smoke damage occurred.  The cleaning process will then be based on the result of the test.  West Smoke is produced from any plastic & rubber.  Dry smoke is produced when you burn paper and wood.  Protein Fire Residue is produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire and causes and extremely pungent odor.

Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every smoke and fire damage circumstance is a little different. A unique solution is required for each situation that is tailored for the specific conditions.  We here at SERVPRO of Texarkana have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your smoke and fire damage.  Our mission is to always treat you and your property with empathy, respect and care.

Have any Questions about Fire, Soot or Smoke Damage? We are always here to help!

Call 903-832-4400.

Springtime Fire Safety

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

Be careful when grilling this spring/summer time. For any accidents you might have, don't hesitate to give SERVPRO of Texarkana a call. 903-832-4400.

When we think of home fire prevention, we think about the things we would normally keep an eye on during the winter months like space heaters, Christmas trees, fire places and ovens during cooking those big holiday meals. But spring time presents its own fire dangers.

For example, you may want to start up your outdoor grill after a long winter trapped inside to grill up some nice steaks.  Be sure to give your grill a good inspection before starting her up. Check the propane tank, and the gas line. Make sure everything is clean. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure that it’s started with the proper charcoal lighting fluid. And this maybe a given but put the grill in an open area with nothing flammable near it.

If you want to start up your fire pit, make sure all leaves and debris are removed from the pit, as those can create embers that can float into the air. And don’t throw anything like that in the fire. Always keep children away from open flames, and always keep a bucket of water next to you before you start the fire just incase of emergencies.

If you happen to suffer from a springtime fire, give SERVPRO of Texarkana a call. 903-832-4400.

Most Fires Are Preventable

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that more than 360,000 home structure fires each year?

The cold weather often means a higher risk of house fires, this is because people are spending more time at home and indoors from the wintry weather!

Common Fire Hazards at Home

• Candles
• Cigarettes
• Electrical & Lighting
• Dryers & Washing Machines

These fire hazards can be "preventable" with some forethought and care! The most preventable are are unattended candles and cooking! Be aware of when you light candles or leave the stove on before you leave your home or go to bed. 

Regularly Inspect Your Fire Sprinkler System

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

Keep up with your inspection on your fire sprinklers

Water-based fire protection systems, or fire sprinklers, should always be kept in working condition and tested periodically to ensure maximum fire suppression capacity. Your sprinklers are your home or business’s first line of defense in the event of a fire, and it may be mandatory in Williamsburg, NY, to conduct routine tests and inspections.

1. Check the age of your sprinkler system. Modern standards require that sprinkler systems adhere to NFPA 25 requirements, but systems in buildings older than 60 years may be outdated and in need of a full replacement.

2. Check your sprinkler installation. Faulty or defective installation equipment and procedures can lead to sprinkler malfunctions in the event of a fire.

3. Always keep your fire sprinklers clean. Dirty fire sprinklers can lead to obstructions that block the water flow and prevent sprinklers from working correctly, or even from detecting and activating in the event of a fire. Many organizations and inspectors recommend an obstruction inspection every five years.

4. Periodically test your sprinkler functions. Sprinklers can be tested in a variety of ways, including simply testing that they work through routine checks. However, more complex testing such as corrosion testing and hydrostatic testing can uncover additional issues that may not be readily apparent on a simple functional test.

5. Immediately replace defective parts. Because sprinklers are so deeply interconnected, replacing a defective part may require replacing larger sections of the sprinkler system. However, this is highly advisable as a matter of safety to prevent any issues should the sprinklers fail to activate in the event of smoke or fire.

One benefit of fire sprinklers is that fire sprinkler cleanup is usually much less messy than cleanup after fire suppression using stronger means. Sprinklers can make a serious difference in prevention of property losses and safety issues, and should be maintained at all times

Residential Smoke & Soot Cleanup

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor.

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 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

• 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) 832-4400

Clothing Fire and Smoke Remediation Process

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

While every fire damage is different and our process changes according to the needs of each of our customers, you can expect the clothing fire restoration process to closely resemble the following:

• Our technicians will inventory and remove all affected clothing and textiles from your home and take them back to our Esporta cleaning facility.
• If anything is wet, we set it aside to begin the drying process and prevent mold.
• We double check our inventory and create an estimate for your insurance company.
• Once your insurance adjuster approves cleaning, your clothing is washed.
• To dr your clothing, it is placed in a humidity controlled drying chamber.
• All items are professionally finished by being pressed, hung, bagged, and boxed.  Leather items are also conditioned.
• If storage is required, we place your items in air conditioned storage.
• When you are ready, your items are delivered back to you.
• Any items that were not salvageable are reported to you and your insurance adjuster.  We even provide your adjuster with a replacement cost report.

Soot After a Fire

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Dangers of Soot

Soot is harmful because a wide variety of natural and synthetic substances burn during a fire. As they burn, they create microscopic particles that contain chemicals, acids, dust, metals, and other hazardous substances. The soot spreads widely and sticks to every exposed surface, creating a larger contamination area. Soot can cause serious damage to the surfaces it sticks to, and this damage can quickly become permanent. If it reaches the building’s HVAC system, it can spread even further through the structure.

Unless the soot is cleaned quickly and correctly, the particles will be inhaled, causing bronchitis and other lung disorders, as well as aggravating current conditions like asthma or COPD. A report from the Environmental Defense Fund shows that even brief exposure to soot can cause problems. Not only are soot particles small enough to embed within lungs, some can even enter the bloodstream. Exposure to these particles has been linked to heart attacks and arrhythmias in people with heart disease. As people and animals breathe in these particles over time, the symptoms will only get worse.

Removing Soot

It’s easy to find large deposits of soot residue on walls, ceilings and other objects, but the individual particles are too tiny to see with the naked eye. It has a distinctive smoky/ashy odor, which is often how people realize an area has been affected. It’s important to remove soot as soon as possible, both for health reasons and to restore damaged items, but it’s more important to do it correctly. That’s why using a professional is a smart idea. Give us here at SERVPRO of Texarkana a call. 903-832-4400. Cleaning soot and smoke damage on your own can be difficult because it’s easy to spread it even further; exposure to soot even after a few days will still cause lung irritation without proper protective equipment, which many people don’t own.

How Can I Prevent a House Fire?

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Test your smoke detectors. Properly maintain your smoke alarms by testing the batteries once a month.

Inspect heating sources. Regardless of what kind of primary heating you have in your home, an annual inspection will reduce your risk of fire.

Keep the stove and oven clear. To prevent kitchen fires, don’t leave anything flammable near the stove or oven

Stay in the kitchen. Don’t leave a hot cooking surface unattended.

Check the dryer. If you have a gas-powered clothes dryer, have it inspected once a year to make sure all connections are secure.

Maintain electrical cords. Regularly check the condition of electrical cords and watch out for frayed wires.

Know your shutoffs. Know the locations of your power shutoffs for all utilities, including gas lines, circuit breakers, appliances, and fuses.

Store flammable products properly. Keep flammable products away from heat, including exposure to sunlight.

Be careful with candles. Never leave candles unattended and always keep them away from flammable items like blankets and curtains.

Prevent wildfires from outdoor fire pits, bonfires, and burn barrels. Make sure your fire pit or burn barrel is constructed of nonflammable materials, like stone or concrete.

Keep fire extinguishers handy. Some homes come equipped with fire sprinkler systems, but fire extinguishers stocked in key areas of your home is the next best thing.

Common Causes of Electrical Fires

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

Faulty outlets, appliances. Most electrical fires are caused by faulty electrical outlets and old, outdated appliances. Other fires are started by faults in appliance cords, receptacles and switches. Never use an appliance with a worn or frayed cord which can send heat onto combustible surfaces like floors, curtains, and rugs that can start a fire. Running cords under rugs is another cause of electrical fires. Removing the grounding plug from a cord so it can be used in a two-prong electrical outlet can also cause a fire. The reason appliances have the extra prong is so they can be only used in outlets that can handle the extra amount of electricity that these appliances draw.

Light fixtures. Light fixtures, lamps and light bulbs are another common reason for electrical fires. Installing a bulb with a wattage that is too high for the lamps and light fixtures is a leading cause of electrical fires. Always check the maximum recommended bulb wattage on any lighting fixture or lamp and never go over the recommended amount. Another cause of fire is placing materials like cloth or paper over a lampshade. The material heats up and ignites, causing a fire. Faulty lamps and light fixtures also frequently result in fires.

Extension cords. Misuse of extension cords is another electrical fire cause. Appliances should be plugged directly into outlet and not plugged into an extension cord for any length of time. Only use extension cords as a temporary measure. If you do not have the appropriate type of outlets for your appliances, hire an electrician to install new ones.

Space heaters. Because these types of heaters are portable, many times people put them too close to combustible surfaces such as curtains, beds, clothing, chairs, couches and rugs. Coil space heaters are especially dangerous in this regard because the coils become so hot they will almost instantaneously ignite any nearby flammable surface.

If you do use space heaters, use the radiator-type that diffuse heat over the entire surface of the appliance. These are less likely to ignite flammable items, but should still be kept away from them.

Wiring. Outdated wiring often causes electrical fires. If a home is over 20 years old, it may not have the wiring capacity to handle the increased amounts of electrical appliances in today’s average home, such as computers, wide-screen televisions, video and gaming players, microwaves and air conditioners.

What Are the Dangers of Toaster Ovens

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Toaster ovens are designed to cook toast, pastries and other small baked goods. A toaster uses a lot of electricity to create a lot of heat in a small space, which carries some inherent risk. Modern toaster ovens often have advanced safety features such as automatic shutoffs to prevent the heating element from overheating. Nevertheless, there are still some dangers, particularly with older toaster ovens. Educate yourself about the risks, and never leave a toaster oven unattended.

Burns

Like anything else that gets hot, toaster ovens can cause burns. Outside parts of the toaster such as the glass door on rack-style toaster ovens can get hot enough to cause blisters. It is also easy to burn yourself reaching into a toaster oven to retrieve bread or pastries since the area is quite small. Although the burns are generally minor, you should always be careful when operating a toaster oven to minimize the risk.

Fire

Fires in toaster ovens can occur for many reasons. If small particles of bread accumulate in the bottom, they can catch fire inside, spreading smoke. If something is left in a toaster oven for too long or on too high a heat setting, it can also catch on fire. Some toaster ovens can catch on fire because of serious design flaws. 

Electric Shock

Toaster ovens and other electric appliances that use heating elements use high-voltage electricity to generate heat. If you come directly in contact with the electricity, you can receive a potentially fatal shock. Never reach into a toaster oven with a knife or fork; if you accidentally bump into the heating element, electricity can travel up the metal object to your arm. Never operate toaster ovens or other electric appliances near water.

Wildfire's

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

What is a wildfire?

A wildfire also known as a wildland fire, forest fire, vegetation fire, grass fire, peat fire, bushfire (in Australia), or hill fire is an uncontrolled fire often occurring in wildland areas, but which can also consume houses or agricultural resources. Wildfires often begin unnoticed, but they spread quickly igniting brush, trees and homes. 

What causes a wildfire?

Common causes of wildfires include lightning, human carelessness, arson, volcano eruption, and pyroclastic cloud from active volcano. Heat waves, droughts, and cyclical climate changes such as El Niño can also have a dramatic effect on the risk of wildfires. Although, more than four out of every five wildfires are caused by people.

If You Encounter a Grease Fire In Your Home

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

So many brave firefighters, thank you for what you do. For the after affect of a grease fire, call SERVPRO of Texarkana. We are available 24/7.

If a grease fire starts:

• Cover the flames with a metal lid or cookie sheet. Leave the cover on until it has cooled.
• Turn off the heat source. 
• If it’s small and manageable, pour baking soda or salt on it to smother the fire.
• As a last resort, spray the fire with a class B dry chemical fire extinguisher. 
• Do not try to extinguish the fire with water.
• Do not attempt to move the pot or pan outside. 

Do not use flour, baking powder or other cooking powders that resemble baking soda or salt – they have a different chemical makeup and will not react similarly. They will make the fire worse.

If you are unable to extinguish the grease fire:

• GET OUT! You and your family members need to leave as soon as you can to prevent injury or loss of life. Do not try to be a hero.
• Close the door as you leave to help contain the fire.
• Call 911 as soon as you are at a safe distance from the fire. 
• Do not re-enter your home until the fire has been contained by firefighters.  

Smoke Lingering In Your Home After a Fire

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

This is smoke inside a home. Smoke travels everywhere and soot gets on everything, it also leaves a horrible smell along with it.

A fire is one of the worst accidents that can happen to a home – it not only destroys structural materials and household items in a quick and irreversible way, but also results in a number of supplementary hazards. Even if the fire was small and contained, it's byproducts can continue to cause damage to the property and jeopardize the well-being of its inhabitants long after the flames have been extinguished.

Stubborn smoke odor is one of the most common examples of the detrimental consequences of a fire. It can linger in the home for a long time, compromising the indoor air quality and posing health hazards to the occupants of the building. So, in the unfortunate event that smoke affects your home, you need to take every possible measure to get rid of the smoke smell quickly and effectively. Call us at SERVPRO in Texarkana. We will make it "like it never even happened"

Fire Prevention

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Detecting possible fire hazards is the first step in creating a safer home. Periodically inspect your home for overloaded electrical outlets and power strips. Make sure that children don't have access to matches, lighters, and other fire starters. Keep flammable materials like kitchen towels and paper away from stoves. Clean the dryer vents seasonally, to prevent the build-up of flammable fibers. Replace gas appliances if they begin to show faults, particularly failing pilot lights. Make sure you have a functional smoke alarm in every area of the home. They should be mounted high on a wall or on the ceiling in the kitchen, the basement and in every bedroom. Replace the batteries annually, and replace the units themselves every decade. More than 60 percent of house-fire deaths happen in dwellings without working smoke alarms. For any fire needs, SERVPRO of Texarkana is here to help.

Fire Can Cause More Damage to Your Home Than You Think

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

Excessive smoke and soot damage

There can and will be unexpected issues from any business or house fire. The fire itself is devastating, but the damage that comes after the initial fire can be severe. The most common of which, is smoke damage.  

Smoke damage to your home or business can leave your walls, ceilings and other surfaces discolored and warped. These surfaces may have a smoky odor left by the fire, which can even be dangerous for your health. The smell is usually left by particles on partially or fully burned surfaces. The smell can also embed itself into articles of clothing, carpets, and curtains and will require the immediate professional cleaning that we can provide.  

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Texarkana is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. We have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us restore your home to pre-fire condition.  

We have 24/7 emergency service 

We are locally owned and operated

We have highly trained technicians

Have questions? Call us today- (903)832-4400

A Commercial Fire Next Door Can Cause Unexpected Smoke Damage Issues

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

Heavy smoke that lingers in the air can often carry with it toxic particles

Did you know sometimes a commercial fire in the Texarkana area can cause enough smoke damage to your building that you may need to file an insurance claim? Fire is an insidious agent that sends out more than just flames. As the soot and smoke are thrown into the air, they may cast a large shadow as they settle again onto and into the surrounding buildings. That is how the damage can catch you unawares.

Extreme Vapors May Damage Your Building’s Interior

Heavy smoke that lingers in the air can often carry with it toxic particles, vapors, and gases that can expand with the heat from the flames. These are some of the most common areas that may be damaged by smoke and soot in nearby buildings:

• Ceilings
• Walls
• Windows
  
  

Although outside building smoke damage is often expected from a nearby fire, the broken windows, stained inside walls, and soot-covered interior are generally a surprise. In fact, smoke and soot can be carried for miles in even a gentle breeze, leading to massive areas of soot damage from even the smallest of commercial building fires.

Smoke Odors May Cause Hidden Damage to Your Property

The lingering odors after a fire are often unpleasant due to the phosgene, carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide that is typically produced as a result of the fire. As the gases spread, they can attach themselves to walls, furniture, carpeting, and clothing. To alleviate the hidden damage of extreme odors, call in a fire restoration specialist for a thorough building smoke cleaning. The professionals have all the tools needed to remove the offensive smoke odors.

Fire damage, whether it is visible or hidden, can be a source of angst for a commercial property owner. Don’t let the effect of a fire next door put you out of business for even one day. Call SERVPRO of Texarkana (903)832-4400, our trained and experienced technicians can take immediate actions to alleviate the number of repairs your building will need.

Every Second Counts During a Fire

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Is your home safe to enter after a fire? SERVPRO of Texarkana can assess the damage and get your home on the path to restoration.

Fire experts agree, people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late to get out.* In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared and have an escape plan in place. A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows only 26 percent of families have developed and practiced a home fire escape plan. Once a plan is developed, it is critical everyone in the home understands the plan; the best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year. Increase your chance of surviving a fire by ensuring you have working smoke detectors in place, building an escape plan, and then practicing the escape plan. The following are a few suggestions to help you develop an emergency escape plan.

Draw a map of each level of your home and show all doors and windows. Find two ways to get out of each room. Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily.

Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second and third floors. Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory. Store them near the window where they will be used.

Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they’ve escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting place on your escape plan.

Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them. Plan for everyone in your home with special considerations for elderly or disabled individuals.

Practice your fire escape plan during the day and at nighttime.

Trust our professional fire restoration technicians to take care of your home. With 24/7 service, SERVPRO of Texarkana will repair and restore your home as soon as you call. For more information, call 903-832-4400.

Destroy Odors With Deodorization

6/21/2019 (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® Franchise Professionals provide specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the sources 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 your Texarkana SERVPRO Professional 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 us at (903)832-4400. 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."

Grill Safely This Summer

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

As we get further into summer more and more people will be lighting up their grills for family gatherings and holidays. While it may not seem like an outdoor grill would pose much of a risk to your home, without the proper safety precautions a barbecue can cause extensive fire and smoke damage to your home. The following tips can help you reduce the risk of a grill fire at your home this summer:

• Inspect the propane tank for holes or loose hoses before using. Periodically check the hose for holes by submerging it in soapy water. If any bubbles form the hose should be replaced.
• Keep the grill at a safe distance from the home and any flammable items. Never grill under any kind of overhang like a garage or a porch. 
• Always keep a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location not too far from the grilling area. 
• Never leave a lit grill unattended, especially around children or animals that could easily knock it over.
• Use tools with long handles to keep a safe distance from the flame, and avoid wearing any clothing items that may easily catch fire (i.e. long, baggy sleeves)
• Always clean a grill after use, while its still hot, with a wire brush to avoid accumulations of fatty, greasy materials. Periodically check and empty any trays below the grill that may collect grease. 
• If you use lighter fluid to light a charcoal grill, only use charcoal starter fluid. Never add the fluid to a flame, add it before lighting the grill. 
• If you experience any fire or smoke damage this summer call SERVPRO of Texarkana anytime at 903-832-4400. 

Residential Fire and Smoke Damage

6/10/2019 (Permalink)

When fire and smoke damage occurred in this Hooks, TX home, SERVPRO of Texarkana was called to clean up the property. The fire was contained in the kitchen so other than smoke, the damage did not spread throughout the house. We were able to tear out the damaged material and clean and deodorize the property. 

So how can you prevent kitchen fires?

• Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling.
• Turn off stove or broiler whenever you leave the kitchen.
• Set a timer while cooking and check it regularly. 
• Don't leave the house and take the chance that you might forget about the food cooking in the kitchen.
• Keep things that can catch fire, such as potholders, towels and food packages, away from heat. 
• Everyone in your home who cooks needs to know what to do in case of a kitchen fire:

• When in doubt, get everyone out! Close the door behind you. Call 911.
• If a small grease fire starts and is confined to a pan on the stove, put on an oven mitt and smother the fire by sliding a lid over the pan. Turn off the burner. Don't move the pan and keep the lid on until the pan is cool.
• In case of an oven or microwave fire, turn off the appliance and keep the door closed. Unplug the microwave if you can reach the outlet. Do not use the equipment again until it is certified safe.
• If your clothes catch on fire, stop, drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands, and roll over and over — or back and forth — to put out the fire.

• So how can you prevent kitchen fires?

  • Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling.
  • Turn off stove or broiler whenever you leave the kitchen.
  • Set a timer while cooking and check it regularly. 
  • Don't leave the house and take the chance that you might forget about the food cooking in the kitchen.
  • Keep things that can catch fire, such as potholders, towels and food packages, away from heat. 
  • Everyone in your home who cooks needs to know what to do in case of a kitchen fire:
  • When in doubt, get everyone out! Close the door behind you. Call 911.
  • If a small grease fire starts and is confined to a pan on the stove, put on an oven mitt and smother the fire by sliding a lid over the pan. Turn off the burner. Don't move the pan and keep the lid on until the pan is cool.
  • In case of an oven or microwave fire, turn off the appliance and keep the door closed. Unplug the microwave if you can reach the outlet. Do not use the equipment again until it is certified safe.
  • If your clothes catch on fire, stop, drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands, and roll over and over — or back and forth — to put out the fire

  • So how can you prevent kitchen fires?

    • Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling.
    • Turn off stove or broiler whenever you leave the kitchen.
    • Set a timer while cooking and check it regularly. 
    • Don't leave the house and take the chance that you might forget about the food cooking in the kitchen.
    • Keep things that can catch fire, such as potholders, towels and food packages, away from heat. 
    • Everyone in your home who cooks needs to know what to do in case of a kitchen fire:
    • When in doubt, get everyone out! Close the door behind you. Call 911.
    • If a small grease fire starts and is confined to a pan on the stove, put on an oven mitt and smother the fire by sliding a lid over the pan. Turn off the burner. Don't move the pan and keep the lid on until the pan is cool.
    • In case of an oven or microwave fire, turn off the appliance and keep the door closed. Unplug the microwave if you can reach the outlet. Do not use the equipment again until it is certified safe.
    • If your clothes catch on fire, stop, drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands, and roll over and over — or back and forth — to put out the fire
    • If you get a small burn, immediately put it under cool water for 3 to 5 minutes. If the burned area is bigger than a fist — or if you have any questions — seek medical attention right away.
    • Have Questions? Call Us Today - We're Here To Help 903-832-4400

Common Causes for House Fires

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

There are several causes for house fires and we have listed a few of them below.

 Cooking Equipment

Pots and pans can overheat and cause a fire very easily if the person cooking gets distracted and leaves cooking unattended. Always stay in the room, or ask someone to watch your food, when cooking on hotplates.

 Heating

Keep portable heaters at least one meter away from anything that could easily catch fire such as furniture, curtains, laundry, clothes and even yourself. If you have a furnace, get it inspected once a year to make sure it is working to safety standards.

 Smoking in bedrooms

A cigarette that is not put out properly can cause a flame, as the butt may stay lit for a few hours. If it meets any flammable materials such as furniture, it can burst into flames.

 Electrical Equipment

An electrical appliance, such as a toaster can start a fire if it is faulty or has a frayed cord. A power point that is overloaded with double adapter plugs can cause a fire from overuse of electricity.

 Candles

Candles look and smell pretty but if left unattended they can cause a room to easily burst into flames. Keep candles away from any obviously flammable items such as books and tissue boxes. Always blow a candle out before leaving a room.

 Faulty Wiring

Homes with inadequate wiring can cause fires from electrical hazards. Some signs of possible faulty wiring:

1) Lights dim if you use another appliance.

2) For an appliance to work, you must disconnect.

3) Fuses blow or trip the circuit frequently.

Have a licensed electrician come and inspect you house or contact your landlord if you have any of the above occurrences.

 Lighting

Lamp shades and light fittings can build up heat if they are very close to light globes.

Here at SERVPRO of Texarkana, no matter the type of fire loss or residue left, our highly trained professionals understand the behavior of smoke and the cleanup processes to best utilize during fire restoration services. We are ready for whatever happens 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call 903-832-4400.

How to Remove Debris From Your Fire Damaged Home

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

A fire can be devastating, let SERVPRO of Texarkana help you through it

Once a disaster has impacted your home, you work to understand what steps are necessary to return your property to preloss conditions. Ultimately, in the case of fires, much of the work that needs to happen falls into the skilled hands of professional restoration technicians like ours. The question becomes who is going to cover the costs of restoring the property, whether this falls into the coverage that you pay for when you have home insurance, or if it becomes an out of pocket expense.

With the often widespread fire effects throughout your property, even fire debris removal can feel overwhelming to a homeowner. Our SERVPRO professionals can help with an honest assessment of the damage and the best approach to restoring the property as efficiently as possible. Your insurance provider requires documentation, evidence, and photographs to approve a claim for your home to get the restoration paid for, so calling our experienced team first can be a time and money saving option.

Also, by getting our professionals to your home quickly, we can implement our mitigation tactics which can keep the damage from getting worse. We have equipment designed to clean up potential water damage, improve air quality, and remove hazards that could exist from the fire spreading throughout your home. Our safety-conscious SERVPRO technicians have full-body personal protective equipment that can keep them safe through these initial efforts.

Often basic home insurance policies from major providers include fire debris removal coverage. To know for sure, you can call your agent directly to walk you through the details of your specific policy. This removal is critical to begin restoration as it removes overly damaged components and potential health hazards from the property and provides a safer environment for our technicians to restore.

With fire damage, no two homes get affected in the same way. Let our highly trained SERVPRO of Texarkana fire restoration specialists offer you comprehensive service from our initial inspection through the return of your restored home. Call us anytime at (903)832-4400

Helpful Tips to Protect Your Commercial Property After a Fire

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

Warehouse fire in a local commercial building

If you’ve had a fire break out in your office building, you have a great deal of stress and recovery to manage. Not only do you have to worry about the cleanup and restoration efforts left behind from fire damage, but you also want to ensure that you secure your building to prevent further damage or injuries, not to mention vandalism or other crimes. If you follow some basic steps and involve an experienced team of professionals, you should be in good shape.

Overview of Building Protection

Cleaning up your building following fire damage is only part of the battle you have on your hands. It takes time to get your building back to working order, so it’s vital that in the interim, you secure the premises. Here are a few things that are recommended:

• Board up windows, doors, gaps, and other openings.
• Use tarps to cover the roof.
• Hire private security to watch over the property to help deter looting and other mischief.

Board-up Services

You’ve spent enough time and money, and you’ve faced enough grief in the aftermath of the fire at your office that you don’t need to worry about suspicious activity. Boarding up openings in your building will help keep out intruders. Restoration specialists can handle this task immediately following fire cleanup.

Tarp Services

Tarping the roof will play a key role in protecting your building from the elements. This temporary solution will secure vulnerable spots in the roof until crews can repair the damage or make necessary replacements. 

Security

If you want to be extra sure looters stay out of your office building, you can consider hiring a private security firm to keep on eye on the property. You can even request a routine police presence. 

When you’ve had a fire call SERVPRO of Texarkana,  you can have peace of mind that our trained and experienced technicians can make it "Like it never even happened."

903-832-4400

How Many Smoke Alarms Do I Need In My Home?

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

Stay safe and have working smoke alarms in your home

The quantity depends on the size and layout of your home. You can ask your friends and neighbors for an opinion, but the answers will all be different; however, the National Fire Protective Association recommends fire alarm placement:

• In every bedroom
• Outside the sleeping areas on all bedroom levels
• On all levels of the home including the basement
• At the bottom of stairways, including the basement stairs

What Type of Smoke Alarm Do I Need?

Ionization smoke alarms are best at detecting hot, fast-moving fires. Photoelectric smoke alarms are best at detecting slow-burning smoky fires. If both are available, get some of each and take advantage of both technologies. If a smoke alarm with both sensors is available, install those throughout your home. 

Should My Smoke Detectors Be Connected?
Connecting smoke detectors is always a good idea. If there is a fire in your home, you want to know about it right away. Early notification of a fire minimizes fire and smoke damage. You don’t want to wait until a closer detector senses the problem and sounds an alarm. 

How Long Does a Smoke Alarm Last?
Every smoke alarm has the manufacture date stamped on the back. When ten years from that date has passed, you should replace that unit. If the manufacturer suggests a shorter replacement interval, follow those instructions.

When Should I Replace the Batteries?
It’s always good to replace batteries on a regular schedule. However, if you are the type of person that only responds to the low-battery beep, change them all immediately.

A smoke alarm is an essential safety device in your home. It has a long service life, requires little attention and saves lives. It can keep your family safe and minimize fire damage in your home.

Take comfort in the fact that, if you do have a fire, SERVPRO of Texarkana is available 24/7 and has the training and experience to make it "Like it never even happened."

(903)832-4400

Oven, Microwave and Electrical Fires

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire damage in Hooks TX

Oven, Microwave, and Electrical Fires

Fires can happen anywhere in the kitchen — near an electrical outlet, in the microwave, or in the stove. Here are some tips to help you know what to do in case of any of these kitchen fires:

• Oven fires. Immediately close the oven door and turn it off. If the fire doesn’t go out right away, call the fire department. Have the oven inspected and repaired before you use it again.
• Microwave fires. Close the microwave door and keep it closed. Turn the microwave off and unplug it if you can do so safely. Leave it closed and don't use it again until you can have the appliance checked out by a technician.
• Electrical fires. Prevent electrical fires by not overloading your electrical outlets with appliances. If a fire starts, use a fire extinguisher; never douse it with water. Always call the fire department for an electrical fire, even if you have already put it out with the fire extinguisher

If you are in need of fire damage repair and restoration, call SERVPRO of Texarkana, available 24/7 at (903)832-4400

Fire and Pets

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

According to the United States Fire Administration, an estimated 500,000 pets are affected by fires annually. Unfortunately, pets knock over candles and turn on stoves starting over 1,000 fires a year. We here at SERVPRO of Texarkana love our pets, so we’ve put together some tips to help you both prevent and plan for a fire with your pet.

Prevention

As always, prevention is the number one way to make sure your pet is protected against a house fire.

• It seems like a no brainer, but make sure all open flames are extinguished before you leave your home or go to bed. Cats are notorious for knocking over lit candles.
• If your stove has knobs, take them off before you leave or go to bed at night. You can also use covers like the ones you’d use for baby proofing. This prevents animals from accidentally turning something on.
• Our pets enjoy warmth during the winter just as much as we do! However, it’s important to keep their bedding and toys away from open flames like fireplaces.
• As always, make sure you’ve got working smoke alarms!
• If your pet likes to chew, keep electrical cords out of reach. A pet could chew a wire and cause a short that starts a fire.

In the Event of a Fire

Sometimes, though the unthinkable happens and your house does catch fire, here are a few things you can do to make sure your pet is safe.

• Your pet should wear a collar with identification tags at all times in case they get lost during the fire.
• If you haven’t already, get your pet microchipped. In the event they aren’t wearing their collar, or they manage to wiggle free of it, they can be easily identified and returned to you.
• If there’s a fire while you’re not home, make sure your neighbors know how many pets you have and their names. If you trust them enough, you can even give them a spare key to use in the event of an emergency.
• Get a sign for your window! Many places offer signs to let firemen and rescue workers know you have pets in your home.
• Have a pet emergency kit available. Some things you’ll want to include are food, water, a toy, first-aid kit, leash, treats, medication, and any important documents you may need.
• When testing your smoke alarm, or when vacuuming, try and see where your pet goes to hide when they’re scared or in distress. This information will make it easier to evacuate with your pet and can let firefighters know where your pet is in the event of a fire. 
• Have an escape plan put into place that includes your pet, and practice it.
• Keep leashes and crates by the door so if there is a fire your pet can be rescued easily, and you can evacuate easily too.
• Train your pet to come when called – it’ll make evacuation and rescue a breeze.

If you and your pet have been affected by a fire, we at SERVPRO of Texarkana are always here to help! Our phones are answered 24/7 just give us a call (903-832-4400) and we’ll be on our way.

Smoke Behavior

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Texarkana is here to help with your fire damage remediation needs

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior 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. SERVPRO® of Texarkana professionals are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO® of Texarkana technicians will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows your local SERVPRO® of Texarkana professionals to focus on saving your precious items.

How SERVPRO Remediates Fire Damage in Your Home

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

Fires leave soot, smoke and water damage that requires professional restoration. Call SERVPRO to remediate your fire damaged home.

Basic Considerations During Fire Damage Remediation 

The aftermath of a home fire can be an overwhelming experience. Your comfortable home seems to disappear, leaving behind a shell of soot-covered surfaces, furnishings, fixtures, and personal belongings. It is hard to determine what to do first as the soot, and other residues are unlike any ordinary household soiling you have seen. Engaging a reliable full-service disaster restoration company is a must for proper assessment, planning, and implementation of appropriate fire damage restoration,

Homeowners are often stunned at the amount of water damage that accompanies fire damage. Extinguishing a fire requires a lot of water. When the flames subdue the first order of business is rapid and comprehensive water removal. Water is a safety hazard, causing slip and fall risks as well as exposing inhabitants and restoration crews to electrocution concerns. It also is a destructive force on its own, dissolving drywall, warping flooring, and creating a perfect environment for mold growth among other worries.

Our SERVPRO technicians hold multiple certifications in water and fire remediation disciplines, mastered through IICRC courses. Once the pumps and water extractors, air movers and dehumidifiers return spaces to near normal moisture levels, our crew changes focus and begin soot and smoke cleanup.

Property owners quickly learn soot cleaning is a complicated process. SERVPRO technicians evaluate the characteristics of the residues in different areas of the home. Paper burns fast and hot, leaving a light, ashy type of debris. Vacuuming and brushing work well to clear this soiling. Cloth and electrical cords create thick, sticky soot that might need an abrasive cleaning product or tool to dislodge.

Protein fires, frequent in the kitchen, lay down a thin but hard to budge coating that is almost like shellac. SERVPRO technicians change tactics and use a solvent or cleaner rich in wetting agents and surfactants to loosen for removal.

Once the cleanup is underway, SERVPRO also begins devising a blueprint to manage other fire damage remediation tasks. Some of the crew is assigned to deodorization tasks, using strategies ranging from a thorough cleaning to advanced equipment like hydroxyl generators. Other technicians help sort through personal possessions, identifying those that we expect to respond well to cleaning tricks that turn tarnished and blackened items back to their previous appearance and function.

SERVPRO of Texarkana has the trained employees and equipment to cut fire damage restoration down to size. Contact our office day or night at (903)832-4400 to schedule a post-fire assessment as soon as possible after the event.

Fire Insurance: Three Reasons Why Damages May Not Be Covered

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

Residential fire damage

Having fire insurance for your home can protect it and your belongings from the ravages of smoke and flames. Since a home fire is almost impossible to predict, your insurance can cast a wide safety net when it comes to helping you recoup any losses. However, there are a few cases where fire insurance might not cover the damage and knowing what they are can help you be prepared for the future. 

1. Arson 

Arson can be a common cause of fire, especially if the homeowner is short on cash and his or her home is worth more destroyed than whole. Those who deliberately set a fire might do so for several reasons; however, today’s forensic science techniques can detect when an accelerant has been used or identify flash burn patterns that usually do not occur during natural fires, which can be helpful for investigating a suspicious blaze.

2. If a Home Is Empty 

Fire insurance usually does not cover damage to a vacant home or its contents. While all insurance providers have different definitions, most might consider a home to be vacant after it is left empty for more than 30 days. If you plan to travel or be away for an extended period of time, contact your insurance company and ask about modifying your policy to protect your home while you are gone. 

3. Fraud 

Being untruthful about what caused a home fire may prompt an insurance company to refuse your claim. Even if a fire started accidentally, trying to downplay or lie about the circumstances to your restoration company or insurance adjuster may result in you having to pay for the damages out of pocket. Even if the cause of the fire was embarrassing, honesty is the best course of action when describing the details. 

If you do suffer fire damage to your home, call SERVPRO of Texarkana for all your clean up and restoration needs. 903-832-4400

How SERVPRO Can Help Homeowners Recover from Fire Damage

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire Damage

Property owners will usually do everything they can to maintain their property and keep it in the best possible condition. However, there are some things that occur that are beyond the property owners’ control. One of these things is a fire which can occur at any time. When a fire occurs, the property will likely experience a lot of adverse effects such as fire damage. With fire damage, a number of the property structures will be broken down and in some cases fall apart. As a result, fire damage can have some very devastating effects on a property. However, there is a solution that property owners can take advantage of when dealing with fire damage; hire a company that specializes in both residential and commercial fire restoration.

As well as fire damage, property owners also deal with smoke damage whenever there is a fire. Smoke damage is caused by the fire which results in a number of particles getting on the property structures. The effects of smoke damage can be quite devastating as it can not only break down the various property structures, but also cause odors and ruin the appearance of the property as well. Smoke damage is one of the things that property owners will need to address shortly after there is a fire. Along with causing a deterioration of the structure and appearance of a property, damage caused by smoke can cause a smoke smell that is quite unpleasant. The smoke smell will usually be an odor that is quite strong and which will need to be eliminated right away. Whenever a property owner is dealing with smoke damage and a smoke smell, they will benefit by hiring a restoration company. The services of a restoration company will help property owners eliminate damage as well as the smoke smell.

Along with experiencing damage from fires and smoke, any property that catches fire will also have soot damage. When a property experiences soot damage, it will have an accumulation of black particles that get on various structures of the property. Soot damage will often contribute to the deterioration of a property after a fire. As a result, soot damage can have devastating effects on any property. In order to address this issue, property owners will benefit by getting a professional company to help remove soot and other particles that can be hazardous.

Visit https://www.SERVPROtexarkana.com/ for more information on fire damage and restoration.

Esporta Wash Systems

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

Esporta 4000

SERVPRO of Texarkana is your one stop shop for Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration.  Not only can we handle your structure and content cleaning we can also handle you Textiles.  We have expanded our cleaning division and purchased an Esporta Systems.  The system is a unique patented technology that is setting the standard for textiles and soft content cleaning.  It is 5 times more effective that traditional laundry with less water consumption.   

We clean contaminated clothing from fires, floods, and mold jobs in this machine.  It also meets or exceeds all National Fire Protection Association ( NFPA ) standards for cleaning Fireman's PPE.

Sports equipment including pads and helmets can also be cleaned in this machine. Why wait until the season's over? Call SERVPRO of Texarkana and we will pick up the equipment and return it to you.

Items such as leather jackets, shoes, hats can be cleaned and salvaged where in the past they were often considered non salvageable and tossed in the dumpster. 

www.SERVPROoftexarkana.com

903-832-4400

What To Do After a Fire: Dealing With the Damage

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

From the first call to 911 to calling in a remediation team, dealing with a fire is extremely overwhelming and stressful. After the fire has been put out it can be hard to know what your next steps should be, so here are a few tips on what you can do to get your life and home back to normal as quick as possible. 

1. Call in your local SERVPRO remediation specialists. A fire can result in multiple types of damage to your home or business, including water, so call in the professionals who have years of experience in all realms of restoration. 
2. Call your insurance agent in order to get your insurance claim rolling, and to find out important information such as coverage provisions, emergency housing options, etc. If you are a tenant, call your landlord so that they know to get in touch with their insurance agent.
3. Do not enter the home until a fire fighter has assured it is safe for you to do so. Once inside try to limit your movement around the home so soot particles are not spread or embedded. Also avoid touching anything to avoid soiling previously clean areas. 
4. Carefully move any undamaged items that are at risk in the effected area (i.e. television at risk for water damage) to a safe zone if possible.  

Our SERVPRO professionals will be onsite within just a couple of hours after a call to begin the cleanup. We work with insurance agents to ensure that people get their homes or businesses back to normal as quickly as possible. If you experience a fire, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Texarkana at 903-832-4400 anytime of the day or night. 

Fire Damage Restoration

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration is yet another SERVPRO of Texarkana specialty.  Our technicians work diligently to clean your structure and/or contents to preloss condition.  SERVPRO of Texarkana fire damage restoration includes the following services:

• Mitigation services—these services secure the structure and prevent further damage. Structures that are wet due to fire-fighting procedures will need emergency drying to prevent secondary water damage
• Structural Cleaning Services—Removal of the smoke residues from the structure and deodorizing odors given off by the residues
• Contents Cleaning Services—Personal property within a residence, office, or other building must be cleaned of smoke resides.  Contents cleaning can be held within the structure or may require packing and moving to a separate location for cleaning and storage.

Fire damage situations are all different.  SERVPRO of Texarkana knows that each situation requires a unique solution.  Let our Fire Damage Restoration technicians restore your property to preloss condition meanwhile treating you and your family with empathy and respect that you deserve.

Call SERVPRO of Texarkana today! 903-832-4400

Celebrate Safely with a Recipe for Safety

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

Each holiday season, families gather to celebrate by preparing delicious feasts, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. It’s important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.

• Be 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 the stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire, consider the following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe.

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 911 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you are cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stove-top. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.

SERVPRO of Texarkana Professionals wish you a safe a happy holiday season.  Call us at 903-832-4400 for prompt and expert service.

Fire Classifications and Extinguishers

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

Every family should have a fire escape plan, working smoke alarms, and at least one fire extinguisher on each level of their home. A fire with a stable supply of fuel, oxygen, and heat can double in size within 60 seconds; therefore, quick action is key to preventing catastrophic damage. Fires, and their extinguishers, are categorized into 5 different classes based on fuel types. An ABC fire extinguisher is typically what most people stock within their homes as it is versatile – it can extinguish 3 out of the 5 fire groups; however, many household fires result from Class K type situations, which require their own specific extinguisher. Read the following information to learn more about these fire groups and the methods to extinguish them.

Fire Classes

Class A - Typical sources of these fires include trash, fabric, paper, wood, and plastics. Class A fires are the most common, and they will burn as long as heat, oxygen, and fuel are available. Water is a good extinguisher for these fires because it reduces heat. Water based and foam extinguishers can also be used.

Class B - Fires with fuel bases of flammable gases or liquids, not including those used/produced in the kitchen (see Class K). Some examples of Class B fuels include gasoline, propane, butane, kerosene, alcohol, solvents, and paints. These fires are typically difficult to extinguish, and they produce thick smoke. Water can spread a liquid fuel source, so it is best to extinguish these fires by smothering the flames with a foam extinguisher.

Class C - Fires that originate from electrical equipment. More common in industries that use large electrically sourced machinery, but can occur in homes with faulty wiring, overloaded outlets, etc. The first step to extinguishing these types is to turn off the electricity source. Water should not be used to control electrical fires, neither should foam extinguishers, instead use carbon dioxide and dry powder extinguishers (ABC).

Class D – Fuels for combustible metal fires include titanium, aluminum, magnesium, and potassium. They typically occur in laboratory settings, but can sometimes happen in various business industries. The intensity of a metal fire may be increased using water or foam; so many times fire fighters will allow these fires to burn themselves out.

Class K – Two out of five household fires begin in the kitchen. Their fuel types include vegetable and animal fats, grease, and cooking oil. They can be extremely difficult to extinguish because of the high temperatures in which they burn at. Water will not extinguish these fires, it may even increase their severity by spreading the flames. Class K fires require their own personal extinguisher (K) that contains a wet chemical formula to cool off high temperatures and prevent re-ignition.

Use Caution with Extinguishers

During a fire the immediate concern should be for yourself and your family members. Before you attempt to extinguish a fire make sure the fire department is being called and that everyone in your home is aware of the situation. Only use an extinguisher while a fire is small and manageable. Never try to extinguish a fire if you are unsure on how to use an extinguisher correctly, there will be no time for reading instructions. If you have any amount of doubt regarding extinguishing a fire, don’t do it. Leave it to the fire fighters and get yourself to safety.

If you experience a fire in your home, SERVPRO of Texarkana is here to help. Our professionals will quickly assess the impact of the flames, smoke, and moisture to create a personalized restoration plan for your home. If you have a fire damage, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Texarkana for 24-hour emergency services at 903-832-4400.

TYPES OF SMOKE

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

Bedroom after a fire loss

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior of smoke.

There are two different types of smoke – wet and dry.

Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Texarkana's Restoration Professionals will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows us to focus on saving your precious items.

Sources of Smoke

Wet Smoke (Plastic and Rubber)

Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Creates smoke webs that are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke (Paper and Wood)

Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue (the smoke is produced by evaporation of water from the burning materials rather than from a fire)

Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor; sometimes leaves a thick, sticky yellowish or off-white residue on surfaces.

Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace Puff Backs)

While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.

Other Types (Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue)

Special loss situations require special care.

The Professionals at SERVPRO of Texarkana are trained to handle even the toughest losses. We utilize the latest technology, have up-to-date equipment, protocols and products available to take care of your home and property . If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact us, at 903-832-4400, to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

PREVENTING GRILL FIRES

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

BBQ Grill flare-up

As we get further into summer more and more people will be lighting up their grills family gatherings and holidays. While it may not seem like an outdoor grill would pose much of a risk to your home, without the proper safety precautions a barbecue can cause extensive fire and smoke damage to your home. The following tips can help you reduce the risk of a grill fire at your home this summer:

• Inspect the propane tank for holes or loose hoses before using. Periodically check the hose for holes by submerging it in soapy water. If any bubbles form the hose should be replaced.
• Keep the grill at a safe distance from the home and any flammable items. Never grill under any kind of overhang like a garage or a porch. 
• Always keep a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location not too far from the grilling area. 
• Never leave a lit grill unattended, especially around children or animals that could easily knock it over.
• Use tools with long handles to keep a safe distance from the flame, and avoid wearing any clothing items that may easily catch fire (i.e. long, baggy sleeves)
• Always clean a grill after use, while its still hot, with a wire brush to avoid accumulations of fatty, greasy materials. Periodically check and empty any trays below the grill that may collect grease. 
• If you use lighter fluid to light a charcoal grill, only use charcoal starter fluid. Never add the fluid to a flame, add it before lighting the grill. 
• If you experience any fire or smoke damage this summer call SERVPRO of Texarkana anytime at 903-832-4400. 

What do we do for you when fire damage occurs?

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

Call us at 903-832-4400 for any fire damage restoration needs!

Here is a look at what we offer for your commercial or residential property when fire damage has occurred. 

 Surveying and Pretesting: The process of surveying the job environment is an in-depth process. First, we will walk through the job with you to determine the areas that have been affected. Second, we will pretest the cleanability of surfaces as needed. Pretesting is a SERVPRO® process designed to identify those items that will be restorable. Third, we will make a detailed scope and inventory of each affected area in your home. Finally, we will give you a summary of our findings and explain the best steps for restoration.

Extent of Cleaning: We will review the full extent of the smoke damage. However, you and your insurance adjuster have the final say as to the extent of cleaning to be performed. Please consult with your adjuster if you have any questions. You will be responsible to pay for anything your insurance company does not pay for. 

Specialized procedures are required for materials like mold, lead paint, asbestos, Chinese drywall, etc. If we notice a significant presence of these types of materials, or believe there is a likelihood that such materials exist in the structure, we will notify the involved parties so they may determine an appropriate course of action. 

Window Cleaning: For normal smoke damage, windows will be cleaned on the inside only. 

Metal Polishing: Unless conditions warrant chemical restoration, metal such as silver and brass will be cleaned and buffed only. Polishing will only be done if we are authorized by both you and the adjuster. 

Floor Finishing: Hard surface floors will be mop cleaned. Stripping, sealing and refinishing will only be done if conditions warrant them and we are authorized by both you and the adjuster. 

Clean/Prep-for-Paint: Wall and ceiling surfaces which are heavily smoked and will not clean completely will be cleaned so that sealer paint will adhere. These surfaces may clean up better with additional work. However, this type of additional work is usually not authorized by (or paid for by) insurance companies when painting is still required. If you request any non-covered services, you will be responsible to pay for them.

Deodorizing: We guarantee our deodorizing to be complete provided that all sources of odor have been removed, cleaned or sealed. 

Clothing: Your insurance company might encourage you to clean any affected clothing in your home. If the damage is too heavy or if facilities are not available, we may recommend a local professional laundry and dry cleaners we use to do the work. You may use any laundry or dry cleaner that you wish. It is important, however, that they be familiar with smoke damage.

Ductwork: If you have forced air heat, we will inspect your system to determine if smoke has entered the ductwork. If so, we will recommend measures to remedy the situation. 

Live Plants. SERVPRO® Franchisees recommend the removal of live plants from the affected property, as we do not take responsibility for these items

SERVPRO of Texarkana Smoke and Soot Cleanup

2/16/2017 (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.

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 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

• 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 – 903-832-4400