How Climate Change Alters Storm Frequency and Intensity on the East Coast

9/11/2023 (Permalink)

By acknowledging these changes, we can better prepare for the challenges that storms may bring and take steps to protect our homes.

As homeowners and property owners on the East Coast, it's essential to be aware of the changing weather patterns and the impact climate change has on storm frequency and intensity in our region. Over the past few decades, there has been growing evidence linking climate change to more frequent and severe storms. In this blog, we'll explore how climate change affects storms on the East Coast and discuss steps you can take to prepare for the potential challenges they bring.

The Link Between Climate Change and Storms

Climate change, primarily driven by human activities, leads to a rise in global temperatures. As the Earth's temperature increases, it disrupts the balance of the atmosphere, causing changes in weather patterns. This disruption contributes to the intensification and increased frequency of storms on the East Coast.

More Frequent and Severe Hurricanes

The warming of the oceans provides more energy for hurricanes to develop and strengthen. Consequently, the East Coast has experienced an increase in the frequency and intensity of hurricanes in recent years. These storms can bring devastating winds, storm surges, and heavy rainfall, leading to extensive property damage and posing a significant threat to coastal communities.

Rising Sea Levels and Storm Surges

One of the consequences of climate change is the melting of polar ice caps, leading to rising sea levels. As a result, storm surges during hurricanes and severe storms have become more destructive, causing coastal flooding and erosion. Property owners along the coast should be especially vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their homes from these increasing risks.

Increased Precipitation and Flooding

Climate change also alters precipitation patterns, causing more intense and prolonged rainfall events. This increased rainfall can lead to severe flooding, even in regions not typically prone to such disasters. Property owners should evaluate their homes' drainage systems and consider installing measures to mitigate the risk of flooding.

Heat Waves and Extreme Heat Events

In addition to hurricanes and heavy rainfall, climate change contributes to more frequent and prolonged heatwaves on the East Coast. Extreme heat events can damage properties, strain energy resources, and pose risks to residents. Taking measures to improve your home's energy efficiency and installing cooling systems can help you stay comfortable during such extreme weather events.

Preparing for Climate Change-Related Storms

To better cope with the impact of climate change on storm frequency and intensity, homeowners and property owners can take several proactive steps:

1. Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on climate change research and storm forecasts in your area. This information can help you make informed decisions to protect your property and loved ones.
2. Invest in Resilient Infrastructure: Consider fortifying your home against potential storm damage by installing storm shutters, reinforcing doors and windows, and securing roof structures.
3. Elevate and Protect: If you live in a flood-prone area, elevate your home and consider investing in flood insurance to mitigate the financial impact of potential flooding.

Understanding the impact of climate change on storm frequency and intensity on the East Coast is vital for homeowners and property owners. By acknowledging these changes, we can better prepare for the challenges that storms may bring and take steps to protect our homes, communities, and the environment. Let's work together to build resilience and embrace sustainable practices to mitigate the effects of climate change and safeguard our properties for future generations.

Flames and Finances: How Commercial Property Insurance Shields Your Business from Fire Damage

8/14/2023 (Permalink)

Commercial property insurance is an indispensable tool for shielding your business from the devastating effects of fire damage.

A fire can pose a severe threat to any business, causing significant financial losses and disruption to operations. As a responsible property owner, it's essential to protect your business from such unforeseen disasters. Commercial property insurance serves as a safeguard against fire damage, ensuring your business can recover and rebuild in the aftermath of a fire. In this article, we will explore how commercial property insurance shields your business from fire damage and the critical role it plays in preserving your financial well-being.

Understanding Commercial Property Insurance

Commercial property insurance is a vital form of coverage designed to protect businesses from various risks, including fire damage. This policy typically covers the physical assets of your business, such as the building, equipment, inventory, furniture, and fixtures, against damage or loss due to fire and other covered perils.

Fire Damage Coverage under Commercial Property Insurance

In the event of a fire, your commercial property insurance will kick in to cover the repair, replacement, or rebuilding costs for the damaged or destroyed property. This can include structural repairs, smoke damage cleanup, replacing damaged equipment, and restocking inventory. Having this coverage helps mitigate the financial burden of rebuilding and ensures your business can recover swiftly.

Business Interruption Coverage

In addition to covering the physical damage, commercial property insurance often includes business interruption coverage. This aspect of the policy provides financial assistance to help your business continue operating, even if it temporarily cannot due to fire damage. It can compensate for lost income, ongoing expenses, and even additional expenses incurred to maintain operations during the recovery period.

Protecting Your Financial Investment

For most businesses, the property represents a substantial financial investment. Without adequate insurance coverage, a fire could lead to devastating financial losses that could jeopardize the very existence of the business. Commercial property insurance acts as a safety net, allowing you to protect the capital you've invested in your business and providing peace of mind that your financial future is secure.

Ensuring Business Resilience

Fire damage can lead to business disruptions, revenue losses, and potential liability issues. By investing in commercial property insurance, you create a foundation for business resilience. With proper coverage, you can focus on rebuilding and getting back to normal operations without worrying about the crippling financial impact of fire damage.

Navigating the Insurance Process

After a fire incident, dealing with insurance claims can be complex and time-consuming. It's crucial to document the damage thoroughly, provide accurate records, and work with your insurance provider to ensure a smooth claims process. Having commercial property insurance simplifies this process, as your insurance company will guide you through the necessary steps and help you receive fair compensation.

Commercial property insurance is an indispensable tool for shielding your business from the devastating effects of fire damage. It not only covers the costs of property repairs and replacement but also offers crucial business interruption coverage to help your business stay afloat during challenging times. By investing in this vital protection, you can ensure the financial stability and resilience of your business, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – rebuilding and continuing to thrive in the face of adversity. Remember, seeking the guidance of an experienced insurance agent can help you customize the coverage to meet your specific business needs and provide comprehensive protection for your valuable assets.

Sewage Cleanup Dos and Don'ts: Expert Advice for Homeowners

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

Know what to do and what not to do after biohazard and sewage damage in your home.

Dealing with a sewage backup can be one of the most distressing experiences for homeowners. Besides the foul odor and unsightly mess, sewage backups pose serious risks if not handled properly. When faced with such a situation, knowing the right steps to take and what to avoid can make all the difference in minimizing damage and protecting your well-being. In this blog, we will provide expert advice on sewage cleanup dos and don'ts, empowering homeowners to tackle this challenging issue safely and efficiently.

1. DO Prioritize Safety

Your safety and the safety of your family should be the top priority during sewage cleanup. Sewage water is highly contaminated and may contain harmful bacteria and pathogens. Always wear appropriate protective gear, such as waterproof gloves, boots, and eye protection, before entering the affected area.

2. DON'T Delay Cleanup

Act promptly when you encounter a sewage backup. Delaying cleanup can exacerbate the damage and increase the risk of mold growth and further contamination. The longer sewage water sits in your home, the more difficult and costly the cleanup process becomes.

3. DO Turn Off Utilities

If it is safe to do so, turn off the electricity and gas supply to the affected area to avoid potential electrical hazards and gas leaks.

4. DON'T Use Household Cleaners

Avoid using regular household cleaners for sewage cleanup. They are not effective in eliminating sewage-related contaminants, and mixing them with sewage can create harmful fumes. Instead, rely on professional-grade disinfectants and cleaning agents.

5. DO Ventilate the Area

Open windows and use fans to improve ventilation in the affected area. Adequate airflow helps in drying out the space and reducing the risk of mold growth.

6. DON'T Use Air Circulation from the Affected Area

Avoid using fans or air conditioning that circulate air from the sewage-affected area to other parts of your home. This can spread contaminants and pose health risks.

7. DO Remove Standing Water

Use a wet-dry vacuum or pumps to remove standing sewage water from your home. Dispose of the water in a proper sewage disposal site.

8. DON'T Ignore Absorbent Materials

Avoid salvaging absorbent materials like carpets, padding, and upholstered furniture that have been contaminated by sewage. These materials are challenging to clean thoroughly and can become breeding grounds for bacteria and mold.

9. DO Disinfect and Sanitize

Thoroughly disinfect and sanitize all affected surfaces and items using appropriate cleaning agents. This step is crucial in eliminating harmful bacteria and preventing the spread of diseases.

10. DON'T Hesitate to Seek Professional Help

Sewage cleanup is a complex and hazardous task that requires specialized expertise and equipment. If you are unsure about handling the cleanup yourself or if the extent of the damage is significant, don't hesitate to contact a professional sewage cleanup and restoration service like SERVPRO of Northern Queens.

Sewage cleanup is a challenging process that demands careful attention and adherence to safety guidelines. By following the dos and don'ts provided by experts, homeowners can minimize damage and health risks associated with sewage backups. Remember, safety comes first, and seeking professional assistance ensures a thorough and efficient cleanup, helping you restore your home to a safe and habitable condition. If faced with a sewage backup, take immediate action and approach the cleanup process diligently to protect both your property and your family's well-being.

The Top 10 Most Important Steps to Take if Your Basement Floods

7/18/2023 (Permalink)

Discovering a flooded basement can be overwhelming and stressful for any homeowner. Acting swiftly and knowing the correct steps to take can make a significant difference in minimizing damage and ensuring a safe restoration process. In this blog, we will outline the 10 most important things to do if your basement floods, providing you with a clear action plan to follow during such an emergency.

Ensure Personal Safety

Before entering a flooded basement, prioritize your safety. Turn off the power supply to the affected area to avoid electrical hazards. If standing water is present and the power supply cannot be safely disconnected, it is essential to contact a professional restoration company to handle the situation.

Call a Professional Restoration Company

Contact a reputable disaster restoration company specializing in water damage cleanup and restoration, such as our SERVPRO of Northern Queen's team. Experienced professionals have the expertise, equipment, and knowledge to assess the damage, extract water, and initiate the drying process promptly. Their prompt response is crucial to prevent further damage and mold growth.

Document the Damage

Take photographs or videos of the flooded area and any damaged belongings. These visual records will be valuable when filing an insurance claim and can help expedite the process.

Mitigate Further Damage

If it is safe to do so, take steps to prevent further damage. This may include shutting off the water source causing the flood, sealing any visible cracks or gaps in the foundation, or deploying sandbags to redirect water away from the basement.

Remove Water Safely

Depending on the amount of water present, you may need to use a wet/dry vacuum, pumps, or buckets to remove standing water. However, it's important to note that extensive water damage requires professional extraction methods to ensure thorough drying and prevent long-term issues such as mold growth.

Dry and Dehumidify

Properly drying the affected area is crucial to prevent mold growth and secondary damage. Open windows use fans, and dehumidifiers to facilitate the drying process. A professional restoration company will have specialized equipment to expedite drying and monitor moisture levels.

Salvage Valuable Items

Remove any salvageable items from the flooded area and place them in a dry and safe location. Clean and disinfect items as necessary to prevent mold growth.

Dispose of Damaged Items

Properly dispose of damaged items that cannot be salvaged. Waterlogged materials can harbor mold and pose health risks if not properly discarded.

Conduct Thorough Cleaning and Disinfection

Thoroughly clean and disinfect the affected area, including walls, floors, and any remaining belongings. Use appropriate cleaning agents to eliminate bacteria and inhibit mold growth.

Consult with Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company about the basement flood as soon as possible. Provide them with the necessary documentation and follow their instructions for filing a claim. An experienced restoration company can assist you with the claim process and provide detailed documentation.

Knowing the essential steps to take if your basement floods can help you navigate through this stressful situation more effectively. Remember to prioritize your safety, contact a professional restoration company, document the damage, mitigate further damage, and follow proper drying and cleaning procedures. By acting swiftly and seeking professional assistance, you can minimize damage, ensure a safe restoration process, and restore your basement to its pre-flood condition.

Protect Your Home with Landscaping: Techniques to Keep Your Property Safe from Natural Disasters

6/12/2023 (Permalink)

Landscaping can help protect your property from a natural disaster.

Landscaping is more than just adding aesthetic appeal to your property. It can also be a valuable tool to help protect your home from natural disasters like floods, erosion, and even wildfires. In this blog, we'll explore some landscaping techniques you can use to safeguard your home.

Use Native Plants and Grasses

Native plants and grasses are specifically adapted to your region's soil and weather conditions, making them more resilient to natural disasters. These plants are also less likely to require excessive watering, which can help you conserve water in drought-prone areas. Additionally, native plants and grasses provide habitat for wildlife, helping to promote biodiversity.

Create a Rain Garden

Rain gardens are an excellent way to control water runoff and reduce the risk of flooding. A rain garden is a depressed area in your yard that is designed to capture rainwater and allow it to slowly seep into the ground. The plants in a rain garden are specifically chosen for their ability to tolerate both wet and dry conditions, and they help filter pollutants from the water before it enters the groundwater system.

Install a Retaining Wall

A retaining wall is a structure that holds back soil on a slope or hillside. Retaining walls can help prevent soil erosion and landslides, which can cause significant damage to your property. Retaining walls can be made from a variety of materials, including stone, brick, or concrete. Make sure to hire a professional to install your retaining wall to ensure it is properly engineered and constructed.

Mulch Your Garden Beds

Mulch is a layer of organic material, such as leaves, wood chips, or straw, that is spread over the soil in your garden beds. Mulch helps retain moisture in the soil, which reduces the need for watering. Additionally, mulch helps prevent soil erosion and compaction, which can damage plant roots. Mulch also provides a protective layer that can help insulate plant roots from extreme heat or cold.

Create a Fire-Safe Zone

If you live in an area prone to wildfires, it's essential to create a fire-safe zone around your home. This involves removing any dead or dry vegetation, such as leaves or brush, from within 30 feet of your home. Additionally, choose fire-resistant plants, such as succulents or ornamental grasses, for this area. Keep this area well-irrigated and free of debris.

In conclusion, landscaping can be a powerful tool to help protect your home from natural disasters. By choosing the right plants, installing retaining walls, creating rain gardens, and mulching your garden beds, you can reduce the risk of flooding, erosion, and landslides. Additionally, creating a fire-safe zone around your home can help protect it from wildfires. With these landscaping techniques, you can add beauty to your property while also protecting your home from nature's unpredictable forces.

What to Do When Your Building Smells Like Mold but You Can't See It

5/15/2023 (Permalink)

If you notice a musty smell or any other unpleasant odor in your building, it could be a sign of mold growth.

If you suspect that your building has a mold problem, it can be a concerning and potentially damaging issue. While some signs of mold, such as visible growth or water damage, are easily identifiable, mold can also be present even if you don't see any visible signs. Mold spores can grow in hidden areas, such as within walls, in ventilation systems, and beneath flooring.

If you notice a musty smell or any other unpleasant odor in your building, it could be a sign of mold growth. Here are some steps you can take to address the issue and prevent further damage.

Investigate the Source of the Odor

The first step is to try and locate the source of the odor. Check for any visible signs of mold growth or water damage, such as stains on the walls or ceiling. If you find any signs, it is best to call a professional mold remediation company, such as SERVPRO of Northern Queens, to assess the extent of the problem and provide guidance on how to proceed.

Inspect the HVAC System

Mold can often grow in air ducts and HVAC systems, particularly if there is moisture present. If you suspect that the smell is coming from your HVAC system, it is important to have it inspected by a professional. They can clean the system and recommend preventative measures to prevent future mold growth.

Check for Water Leaks

Mold thrives in damp environments, so if you have any water leaks in your building, it is crucial to address them as soon as possible. Look for any signs of water damage, such as stains or discoloration on walls, ceilings, or floors. If you find any leaks, fix them promptly to prevent mold growth.

Improve Ventilation

Poor ventilation can lead to high humidity levels, which can create an ideal environment for mold growth. Make sure your building has proper ventilation in areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. You can also use dehumidifiers to reduce humidity levels in areas where mold growth is a concern.

Clean and Disinfect

Even if you don't see any visible signs of mold growth, it is a good idea to clean and disinfect your building regularly to prevent mold growth. Use a solution of water and vinegar to clean surfaces, and ensure that any damp areas are thoroughly dried.

In conclusion, if you suspect that your building has a mold problem, it is important to take action promptly to prevent further damage. Investigate the source of any odors, inspect your HVAC system, check for water leaks, improve ventilation, and clean and disinfect regularly. If you have any concerns, it is always best to call a professional mold remediation company, like SERVPRO of Northern Queens, to assess the situation and provide guidance on how to proceed. By taking these steps, you can protect your building and ensure a safe and healthy environment for yourself and others.

Restoring Your Home or Business After a Fire: The SERVPRO Way

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

Experience a fire in your workplace can be traumatic.

Experiencing a fire in your home or business can be a traumatic and devastating event. Once the flames have been extinguished, the process of cleaning and restoring the affected property begins. That’s where SERVPRO of Northern Queens comes in - as a leading fire restoration company, we have the experience, expertise, and equipment needed to effectively clean and restore your property to pre-fire condition.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The first step in the fire restoration process is to contact SERVPRO of Northern Queens. Our emergency response team is available 24/7, and we understand the urgency of the situation. We will ask for details about the fire and its aftermath, and dispatch our team to your property as quickly as possible.

Step 2: Inspection and Assessment

Once our team arrives on the scene, we will assess the extent of the fire damage. This includes examining the structural damage, assessing the smoke and soot damage, and identifying any potential safety hazards. We will then develop a plan of action for the restoration process.

Step 3: Board-Up and Tarping

If the fire has caused structural damage to your property, we will take steps to secure the area by boarding up windows and doors and tarping the roof to prevent further damage.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

If the fire was extinguished with water, our team will use specialized equipment to remove the water and dry the affected areas. This prevents further damage from mold and mildew growth.

Step 5: Smoke and Soot Removal

Smoke and soot can cause extensive damage to your property and can be harmful to your health. Our team uses specialized equipment and techniques to remove the smoke and soot from your property. This includes air scrubbers, thermal foggers, and HEPA vacuums.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

Once the smoke and soot have been removed, our team will clean and sanitize the affected areas. We use industrial-strength cleaning solutions to remove any remaining residue and odors.

Step 7: Restoration

The final step in the fire restoration process is to restore your property to its pre-fire condition. This may include repairing structural damage, replacing damaged flooring and walls, and repainting. Our team works quickly and efficiently to get your property back to its pre-fire condition as soon as possible.

Throughout the fire restoration process, our SERVPRO team works closely with your insurance company to ensure that your claim is processed as smoothly as possible. We understand the stress and anxiety that comes with experiencing a fire, and our goal is to make the restoration process as stress-free as possible for you and your family.

In conclusion, experiencing a fire in your home or business can be a traumatic event, but with our help, the restoration process can be much easier. We have the experience, expertise, and equipment needed to effectively clean and restore your property to its pre-fire condition.

Drenched and Damaged: The Do's and Don'ts of Water Damage

3/28/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can be a serious problem, give SERVPRO a call at the first sign of a water loss.

Water damage is one of the most common causes of home damage. It can happen to anyone, and it can be devastating, but it's important to remember that there are steps you can take to minimize damage and speed up recovery time. In this post, we'll cover what to do after water damage occurs and what not to do in order for you to get back on your feet as quickly as possible.

Water damage can wreak havoc on your home and possessions

Water damage can cause a lot of damage to your home and possessions. Water can cause mold, mildew, corrosion, and structural damage. It can also lead to fire hazards or electrical hazards. If the water gets into your walls or ceiling it could also cause serious property damage, not to mention all the damage that can occur to your personal belongings.

Turn off the water and electricity in the affected area

The first thing you should do after a water damage incident is turn off the water and electricity. If you don't know how to do this yourself, call a professional who can help you with it.

If you leave either one on, it can cause more damage to your property than just leaving them off would have done. Also, if there were any electrical appliances plugged into an outlet that was underwater (like a washing machine or dishwasher), they pose a serious risk and could cause extensive damage.

File an insurance claim

It can be difficult to think about filing an insurance claim when you're still in the midst of dealing with the aftermath of water damage. However, it's important to do so as soon as possible. A professional will come out and assess the damage, then give you an estimate on how much it will cost to fix and replace everything affected by the damage. The sooner this happens, the better: often times people wait too long before filing their claims (or don't file them at all), which can result in lower payouts from their insurance companies or even denial altogether.

This isn't just true for homeowners; renters should also keep these tips in mind when they experience similar problems!

Call SERVPRO

If you find yourself in a situation where water damage has occurred, SERVPRO of Northern Queens can help. They have the equipment, experience, and training to deal with all types of water damage, from burst pipes to hurricanes. In addition to their expertise, they are available 24/7 so that they can respond immediately after any disaster strikes your home or business.

Don't delay calling a professional mitigation company

If you are dealing with a water damage situation, it's important to understand that the longer you wait to call a professional mitigation company, the more damage can occur.

There are two main reasons why people delay calling in a professional: they don't want to be charged for something that could potentially be fixed on their own, or they don't believe there is any damage done.

Doing anything yourself when dealing with water damage can be dangerous and should never be attempted unless you have experience doing so! If not done correctly, it could lead to additional problems down the line such as mold growth or structural instability.

Don't use a vacuum to clean up water damage.

If you've ever had a leaky roof or burst pipe, then you know how frustrating and expensive it can be to deal with water damage. The last thing you want is for the cleanup process itself to cause further damage.

Vacuums are great at removing dust and dirt from carpets and floors, but they're not designed for use on wet surfaces--and in fact, may make matters worse if used improperly. For example:

• Vacuums don't have an airtight seal around their filters; this means that any moisture sucked up by them will seep back out into your home as soon as you turn off the machine.
• Most vacuums aren't designed for use with liquids either; some models may leak through their hoses or even short-circuit due to electrical components being exposed.

Don't attempt to repair electrical devices that have been damaged by water.

Don't attempt to repair electrical devices that have been damaged by water.

Electrical devices can be dangerous, and if you don't know what you're doing, it's best not to try. You might end up causing more harm than good. In addition to being at risk of electrocution or shock, there are other risks associated with repairing electrical equipment yourself:

• You may damage the device further by working on it yourself. This could lead your insurance company (if applicable) refusing coverage for any future repairs needed on your property.
• Trying to repair an electrical device on your own will likely void any warranties that might exist on the device.

Water damage is a serious problem, but it doesn't have to be the end of your home or possessions. By following these tips and calling SERVPRO of Northern Queens immediately after water damage occurs, you can minimize damage and speed up recovery time.

What to Do When You Discover Water Damage

2/5/2023 (Permalink)

When your ceiling is leaking water, give SERVPRO a call

Water damage is one of the most common disasters that can happen to a home. It has the potential to cause thousands of dollars in damage, but luckily it's not too difficult to prevent. In this blog, we'll tell you what to do when you discover water damage in your home or business.

Shut Off Water

Once you've noticed a water loss, it is important to shut off the water supply to the affected area. If you have a shutoff valve near the leak, turn it off. If not and you need to shut off the main water supply, do so immediately by shutting off your main water valve.

Don't panic—remaining calm is one of the most important steps toward getting this situation under control!

Shut Off Electricity

If you've found water damage to your home, the next thing to do is shut off the electricity. This is a safety precaution and should be done regardless of whether or not there is visible damage.

If there's no obvious source of flooding (like a pipe burst), turn off the main breaker. If you're not sure where this is located, call an electrician before proceeding any further with repairs.

If there's an electrical fuse box in your house, turn off its circuit breaker(s). Again: if this isn't something that comes naturally or easily to you, please call an electrician before attempting anything on your own!

Call Your Insurance Company

If you have water damage, don't wait until it's too late. Call your insurance company right away and file a claim so that they can start working on getting you your compensation. You will want to make sure that you inform them of all of the damages that have occurred so that they can cover them in full.

Document the Damage

Next, you need to document the damage. Take photos of all affected areas so that they can be included in your claim, this will help reduce any confusion about what happened or how much money you're owed in restitution from your insurance company. Take pictures of everything you can, including:

• The damaged areas of your home or business
• The location and extent of any standing water (if applicable)
• Any damaged furniture or other items that need to be removed from the area immediately

Most restoration companies, such as SERVPRO, will take care of the entire insurance claims process for you.

Seek Professional Help

If you find yourself in a situation of water damage, it's important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Water is one of the most damaging elements that can occur in your home or business, and even small amounts can cause serious issues if not addressed quickly.

If you are like most people, this may be the first time you've encountered a loss of this magnitude. You might feel overwhelmed by all of the steps involved with getting back on track after experiencing a flood or other type of water damage. Don't worry! The professionals will walk you through each step so that everything goes smoothly for you and your property.

If you've ever had a leaky pipe or water damage, then you know how stressful it can be. Whether the issue is in your home or office, there are many things that need to be addressed immediately. You may have experienced water damage before, but hopefully, this article will help you better understand what needs to happen after such an unfortunate event occurs.

How To Prevent Holiday Fires

12/22/2022 (Permalink)

No matter how severe the fire, SERVPRO is here to help!

Introduction

The holidays are a time for gathering with family and friends, feasting on delicious meals, and celebrating the season. But they're also a time of year when many people accidentally start fires in their homes. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), holiday fires account for more than 30 percent of all residential fires during December, January, and February each year. Despite this high number, there are ways to prevent holiday fires from happening in your home. Here are some tips:

Never leave cooking food unattended.

Accidents happen, but it's always better to be safe than sorry. The best way to avoid a fire is to never leave cooking food unattended. This means when you're using the stove or oven, be sure that someone else is always paying attention — even if you're just putting something in the oven for a few minutes and then coming back later.

Never use your stove or oven to heat your home as well — it's a good idea not to overfill any electrical appliance with too many items plugged into it at once. If there are too many appliances on at once, this could lead to overheating and potential damage of your appliance or even start a fire!

Use battery-operated flameless candles.

If you’re worried about your family and guests being safe this holiday season, consider replacing real candles with battery-operated flameless candles. Candles are a beloved tradition in many homes—but they can also be dangerous if not handled properly. To keep everyone safe, opt for battery-operated flameless candles instead of their traditional counterparts.

These types of candles come in all shapes and styles, from tapered to pillar to scented varieties that make your home smell like a winter wonderland. They may take longer to set up than traditional ones (you must plug them in), but they’re worth the time investment: they look realistic and have just as nice an effect as their flame-light counterparts!

Install a smoke alarm on every story of your home, and in each bedroom.

In addition to taking these steps, you should also make sure your smoke alarm is functioning properly.

To do this, perform a monthly test by pushing the "test" button on your device. If it sounds an alarm, you should change the batteries immediately and continue testing until the unit is working correctly.

Test your smoke alarms once per month.

Test your smoke alarms once per month and change the batteries at least once per year. This is a pressing safety matter, as many fires are started by faulty or dead smoke alarms. Testing your smoke alarm will help prevent accidents and injuries, while also ensuring that you're well-equipped to detect fire and get out safely should one occur.

If you have pets that might interfere with testing, make sure to test when you are home and awake so that any false alarms can be shut off quickly in case of an actual emergency. If possible, test the alarm when someone else is home who can respond quickly if needed.

Keep combustible materials away from the tree and unplug the tree lights at night or when you leave home.

If you have a live tree, be sure to water it frequently. If possible, place the tree in a bucket with water to keep it from drying out. Keep the base of your tree away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, and space heaters. If you have an artificial Christmas tree, make sure it is set up away from flammable items such as curtains or furniture and keep it unplugged when not in use.

Do not overload electrical outlets.

Holiday safety is paramount. In addition to checking the fuses, do not overload electrical outlets.

• Do not plug too many items into one outlet. Plugging in too many appliances or lights into one outlet can cause a short circuit and even start a fire.
• Do not plug extension cords into other extension cords. This causes overcrowding and increases the risk of overheating, which could cause a fire or shock hazard.
• Overloading outlets with too many appliances can also lead to overheating and eventually malfunctioning of the appliance(s). It is best to use multiple power strips instead of multiple outlets if you need extra plugs for various devices such as lamps, televisions, etc., so that each device has its own dedicated power strip with enough capacity for its intended use without causing an overload on any individual circuit breaker in your home's wiring system!"

Never put lit candles on a Christmas tree or near evergreen boughs.

Candles are a great way to add some extra holiday spirit to your home, but they can also cause fires. Never leave lit candles unattended, and never place them near evergreen boughs. Candles can easily ignite the flammable material of garlands and wreaths made from evergreens or other plants with leaves.

If you notice that your house is filling up with smoke from someone else's candle, never enter their house yourself to put out an unattended candle or fire! Instead, call 911 immediately so that the fire department can extinguish the flames before they spread too far and end up destroying your own home as well.

Holiday fires can be prevented through planning and care.

Fire safety is a concern during the holidays, but with planning and care, you can prevent holiday fires.

• Be vigilant with fire safety. Make a plan and stick to it. Check smoke alarms regularly (at least once per month) and test them once per month.
• Know where the fire extinguisher is located in your home - or better yet have one on every floor that you live in and make sure you know how to use it!

Conclusion

In closing, we hope that this guide has helped you to better understand how to prevent holiday fires. It is important to take safety precautions year-round, but especially during the holidays when most people are indoors and more likely to forget about potential risks like candles or cooking fires. If you follow these tips and use common sense when it comes down to it, then you should be able avoid any serious incidents this holiday season!