What to do When you Have a Grease Fire..

1/18/2023 (Permalink)

Always keep a fire extinguisher close by, you never know when you will need it!

Grease Fire Basics

Home cooking fires are common, and a fire caused by grease and oils is among the most common of cooking fires. A grease fire is a different animal from fires that have paper or wood as a primary source. They can also quickly erupt on the stove top, in the oven and on grills. The source of the fire doesn't have to be cooking oils but can also originate from the oils and grease generated by the foods that are being cooked. They are tricky to extinguish, which may be a factor in why they cause so much damage.

Steps To Take During a Grease Fire

A quick response to this type of fire can prevent disaster. These measures have been proven to put out the flames.

Snuff out the flames by covering them with a metal lid or cookie sheet.
Keep the cover on until the fire is out.
An alternative is to cover the fire with baking soda or salt.
If available, extinguish the fire with a Class B fire extinguisher.

If these steps don't work and the fire grows, get everyone out of the home. Call the fire department as soon as possible.

Steps Not To Take

Unlike other fires, you should never use water on a fire feeding on cooking oils. It's also vital not to attempt to move the fire outside, either when it is burning or right after a metal lid has been put over the fire. This action can result in burns and a spread of the fire. Flour and baking powder will not work on snuffing out this type of fire, as they have a different chemical structure than baking soda and salt and can feed the fire.
Understanding a grease fire protects you and your family. If a blaze does harm your home, the first step to fire cleanup is to call in a fire remediation team such as, SERVPRO of Southeast Portland, will clean up the damage and restore your home "Like it never even happened."

Top 5 Reasons for House Fires

9/12/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of SE Portland with any fire related questions!

Cooking

It seems everyone in Portland loves to cook and eat, but it is important to practice your culinary skills in a safe manner.  Fires caused by cooking are the number one cause of fires in Portland. Who doesn’t like deep fat fried foods? If you do indulge be cautious since frying with oil is one of the main reasons cooking-related fires start. Others include flammables near the stovetop or other hot surfaces, leaving the area while cooking, faulty appliances and cooking while impaired.  So, enjoy cooking, just remember to be safe. 

Cigarettes

Not only do cigarettes send smoke into your lungs, but they can also bring your home or business up in smoke as one of the main leading causes of fires in Salem.

Electrical Safety

Do you have old outdated appliances or outlets? Well, here's your excuse to buy some new ones, faulty wiring and old appliances big and small can cause electrical fires.  Need a reason to update your lighting? Well, light fixtures, lamps and light bulbs can also be dangerous causing accidental fires. As if that's not enough using extension cords and space heaters and more can ignite their surroundings. 

Home Heating Equipment

Just like space heaters old or new, there are other home heating methods that may cause a fire. For instance, a wood stove, fireplace, gas or electric heat should be inspected to ensure they are functioning properly to prevent a possible fire. 

Candle Safety

Candles are great. They come in a variety of pleasant scents, they create a peaceful atmosphere and they're a good last minute gift for that co-worker you may not know so well. But as wonderful as they are they can pose a fiery threat to your home is left unattended. 

Do's and Don'ts of Fire Safety

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Stay safe and keep an extinguisher in your home or company in case of emergency.

If you have fire and smoke damage to your property it is hard to not start cleaning yourself.  Please let the professionals help you. 

THE DO'S...

-Keep movement in the building at a minimum.  This helps keep particles from being embedded in carpet and fabrics.

-Wash your hands a lot and be careful not to transfer or wipe soot onto something. It can make it damage the item more.

-If electricity is off empty fridges and freezers and prop doors open to prevent odors. 

-Change your furnace/air conditioner filter but don't let the system continue to run. Turn it off.

DO NOT..

-Do not try washing any thing yourself.  You could further rub the soot into the item. 

-Don't shampoo your carpet. Talk to a professional first.

-Don't clean any electronics without contacting a professional.

-Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been effected by the fire, soot, or smoke.

-Do not turn ceiling fans on. This will stir up the soot residue. 

What is your emergency plan?

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Have you gotten your detectors checked lately? Call non-emergency an the local fire department can check them for you

Smoke alarms save lives. They are the tool most valuable in saving peoples lives.  Smoke alarms should be near every bedroom. It is very important to check them often and make sure the batteries are in good working condition. Test the alarm beep every month. Change the batteries every year and the unit may need replaced every 10 years.  If you need help with your smoke detectors, installing, servicing, or testing contact your local fire department. 

Be sure also that your home has a Fire Emergency Plan in place. Make sure everyone knows where to go and how to conduct themselves in the event of a fire.  Show children how to open windows and how to test doors to see if they are hot.  Make sure everyone knows where the safe place to meet outside the home is. A practice fire drill with your family is always a good practice once a year.

We Are Always Here to Help no Matter How Big The Loss is!

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

Don't Worry, We Have You Covered!

At SERVPRO of Southeast Portlandwe provide 24-hour emergency service and are dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Downtown Portland, Salem and surrounding cities! We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs. We are:

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (503) 427-9535

Residential Services

Whether your home needs emergency Fire Damage, Flood Damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for fast professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we has the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services by giving us a call today! 

Summertime Safety Tips!

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southeast Portland is always here to help!

Summer is officially starting this weekend!  We all know that summer bonfires here in the Portland Metro area have been very popular since we’ve been at home or on vacation.  Cozy, cool nights spent by the fire with friends and family while making S’mores and enjoying each other’s presence is a recipe for a good night.  All while maintaining 6ft a part of course!

Surrounding a campfire with loved ones creates special memories that you can cherish forever.  Let us continue to create these memories by practicing bonfire safety!

Starting the Fire:

• Make sure your fire pit is enclosed and there is enough room for a seating area
• Make sure that your bonfire is 10ft away from your home or any structures
• Do not use gasoline or lighter fluid to start or relight the bonfire

Bonfire Safety:

• Keep a bucket of water or hose handy in case of emergencies
• Do not leave bonfire unattended
• Keep children and pets away from the bonfire
• Do not throw fireworks into the bonfire
• Do not burn aerosols or anything that may produce toxic fumes or explode

Putting Out the Fire:

• Use a shovel to spread out the ashes to let them cool down.  Slowly pour water over the ashes and check to be sure that the fire is completely out.

Any open flame is a potential risk for a disaster, so next time you are planning a bonfire, use these tips to ensure everyone’s safety.  As always, we are ready for whatever happens.  If your bonfire gets out of hand and causes fire damage, you know we will be there to help!

Is your smoke detector working?

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

Remember to check and change batteries in the detectors in your home!

Smoke detector's save lives and provide you and your family time to leave the home and get to safety or alert you to potential fires in the home like a cooking fire or an unattended candle. In the event of a home fire, soot and smoke damage can cause damage throughout your home and require repairs and restoration. 

SERVPRO of Southeast Portland has the technicians, expertise, and experience to clean and restore your home. After a fire, our crew's inventory and pack out the contents in your home. Contents are then brought back to our secure, climate-controlled warehouse where items are recleaned and packed into new clean boxes. While contents are being cleaned, crews work to clean and restore your home. Once your home has been restored, all contents are packed back and your home is ready to be put back together as it was before the fire. 

Why Do I Need Professional Cleaning After a Minor Fire

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Example of apartment fire and the damage it can cause.

The residues from an apartment fire are not your everyday dirt and grime. Instead of being tracked in from the outside, spills, or settled dust floats. Fire residues result from the combustion of building materials and contents inside your Portland apartment. One prevalent source of fire damage in a home or apartment is the protein-based coating from food and grease fires. This residue from a kitchen fire aggressively  adheres to surfaces, almost like a glue. It represents the dehydrated remains of food and oils and is incredibly malodorous and hard to remove.

If I Cannot See the Fire Damage Residue, Do I Need to Clean It?
We all relate to the walking past neighbors’ doorways and noticing a cooking smell that does not go away. Even without an actual fire, food odors work their way into porous materials if not vented or managed. When you add the increased temperatures of a fire burning on a stovetop with oils and proteins heating above their smoking point, your space fills with the rancid compounds into which these ingredients break down. The transparency of the residues is irrelevant, and you need professional help to remove them.

How Are Protein-Based Residues Removed?
SERVPRO of SE Portland will discern the types of soot and their cleaning solutions based on the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training they master. Protein-based soots respond to:

    •    Oil-based solvents
    •    Skillful use of agitation
    •    Use of abrasives, with both agitation and abrasive use and intensity increased carefully by certified technicians to ensure the affected surface can endure the cleaning
    •    The choice of thermal fogging or hydroxyl generation for malodor elimination the odor-bearing molecules require a chemical modification to lose the stench

Turn to SERVPRO of SE Portland for effective and efficient cleanup of fire damage, even if it seems minor save yourself the time and trouble and call a professional.

SERVPRO of SE Portland!

Holiday Fire Safety

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Healthy Christmas tree decorated with ornaments.

The holidays are upon us! Yes, it’s true, things look a little bit different this year what with everything that has been going on with the year 2020.

However, one thing that we know for certain is that some of you will be getting a Christmas tree or will otherwise be putting up holiday decorations soon (if you haven’t already)!

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has you covered with fire safety tips that we are happy to pass along! Safety is by far the most important thing for us and you during this holiday season, so please take these tips and tricks seriously and stay safe with your families and loved ones this year.

• Choose a healthy tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
• Immediately before placing a tree in its stand, cut 5 cm (2 in.) from the base of the trunk; this can help the tree to draw up water. If the cut surface is allowed to dry, it will reduce the water uptake to the tree.
• Always keep the tree well-watered. Make sure to check the water level in the stand daily.
• Make sure that the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source (e.g. space heaters, candles, fireplaces, heat vents, or lights).
• Make sure that the tree does not block an exit.
• Only use decorative lights that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Make sure light bulbs, strings, and connections are not broken or damaged in any way.
• Always turn off tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
• Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
• Get rid of the tree after Christmas or when it is dry and keep it away from your home/garage. Of the ten days with the largest shares of Christmas tree fires, none were before Christmas.
• Check with your local community to find a recycling program.

What to do if a fire happens

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southeast Portland is always here to help.

If a fire happens, the first and most important thing to do is  make sure that you and your family are out of the home. 

The next step is having the Fire Department assess whether or not it is safe to be in or near the building where the fire/smoke damage occurred. Electrical hazards are common occurrences after a fire and can be extremely dangerous.

As soon as the Fire Departments declares the building safe then you and your highly certified SERVPRO team can begin restoration. We will do whatever we can to restore and3 preserve the items in your home, as well as saving you money! The following is a list of what to do and not to do after a fire.

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change the HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire 

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery 
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat, or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may leave a smoke odor.

SERVPRO of Southeast Portland offers the following services after a fire to make your house a home again.

Fire Season is on its Way.

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

Fire in Oregon.

As the Santa Ana Winds in Southern California begin their annual downhill blow and wildfires pose danger, we here in Oregon think of the potential fire season impact we may endure.

The National Weather Service released its first look at the 2020 fire season in early April anticipating warmer, drier spring could potentially lead to an earlier start to fire season. However, lower precipitation expected through the summer months will also limit the potential for lightning strikes.

Forecasters consider several pieces of data to predict the upcoming fire season's behavior, including how they have shaped up in previous years with similar conditions in place.  Fast forward to June and we are anticipating our first long weekend of 85-90-degree heat. Alluding to the start of what we call “Fire Season” here at SERVPRO. As we keep our eye on the weather, know that SERVPRO is here to help and on top of the ever-changing weather patterns. 503-427-9535

Commercial Facilities Vulnerable to Fire During the COVID Pandemic

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

Protect your Facility with Proper Safety Measures

Buildings are empty and most of many communities are working remotely. Here at SERVPRO we wanted to just touch on keeping up security and systems protocols for property owners. Maintenance is still an especially important role in protecting your facility. Below are the National Fire Protection Associations recommendations for continued safety measures. Having a preferred vendor like SERVPRO can also prevent any further damage you may incur. Reach out to us here at SERVPRO to learn about an Emergency Readiness Program (ERP). 503-427-9535. Here to help!

NFPA Recommendations During the Pandemic

In order to avoid frustrating the current environment by compromising fire and life safety, and leaving buildings vulnerable to vandalism, the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) recommended the following key items:

• All commercial and multi-occupancy residential buildings should maintain fully operational fire and life safety systems as required by the applicable codes and standards. (NFPA 25, NFPA 72, NFPA 101)
• Those responsible for these buildings should adhere to the expected schedules for inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) that are vital to their operation. If they are unable to do so, they should contact their local authority having jurisdiction.
• Public and private employees who perform the inspection, maintenance and other responsibilities for these systems should be deemed essential workers.https://www.nfpa.org/

Portland's Need for Additional Emergency Service Providers

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

Fires are Unpredictable, Know who to Call!

In recent days we have been called out too many businesses for board up and emergency services including fires. As we find ourselves in a pandemic and current social tension are on the rise. We HERE at SERVPRO are Calm and Ready to Help! As professionals we can determine what type of damage has occurred and advise of proper restoration. Professionally trained for vandalism clean up, crime scene and biohazard clean up. Following all OSHA, EPA and state and local health regulations. Customers are continually grateful for our immediate response, knowledge, understanding and availability. As an emergency service provider, we take great pride being able to assist. Fire, Smoke, Soot, all have patterns that are needed to be assessed by a professional for proper restoration of property. Call us here at SERVPRO for a immediate response inspection or service! 24/7  503-428-9535

When The Smoke Clears (What to do after a fire)

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

After a catastrophic incident like a fire to your home or business it may be difficult to know what to do next.  While these events are traumatic it is important to focus on what needs to be done to minimize the amount of distress caused.  Once the smoke has cleared hopefully following these steps will aid in the recovery process from the unfortunate scenario.

What to do After a Fire:

1. Find a temporary safe place to stay. The continued safety of you and your family is the most important thing.  Life circumstances will dictate your specific options so please be aware of these in the event a fire occurs.  Friends and family are always a good option for temporary housing.  Not only will you be safe but being around people that care can help to alleviate some of the stress.  Another option for temporary shelter and housing is the American Red Cross that is available to those who need it in Oregon and SW Washington.  One final suggestion leads into the next step.  This being that if you decide to opt for hotel accommodations please remember to stay within the budget allotted by your insurance company. 
2. Contact your insurance company. Probably the most important step in getting you back to normal is ensuring that the loss is covered.  Getting in touch with your insurance provider as soon as possible will help to expedite the disaster.  Knowing what is included in your policy will help in planning out each step without costing you more than the fire already has. 
3. Consult with a restoration company. It is important to have a professional, trained restoration company assess the damage as soon as possible in order to salvage as much of your personal belongings as possible.  In addition, it is generally less expensive to restore than to rebuild or replace helping the financial burden that may be left from a fire.  The damage can continue to worsen even after the fire has been extinguished, so time is essential in restoring your belongings.
4. Cooperation with the insurance provider is key. Although we all know that insurance companies aren’t necessarily excited about having to pay out a claim, they are there to help you out in you time of need.  The quicker they can get all the information about the incident and the belongings affected the quicker they can help with replacement or restoration.  Insurance may not be everyone’s favorite topic, but I can tell you from experience it sure is nice to have when the unexpected happens.
5. Make sure financial obligations are met. With all the stress that comes as a result of a fire it can be easy to forget things.  Making sure that your mortgage is paid as well as insurance are just a few of the bills you need to remember during this trying time.  Also ensuring that you are responsible with your spending with the restoration and reconstruction of your property is necessary.  If you didn’t have granite counter tops and marble floors prior to the loss maybe you shouldn’t have those things put in with the reconstruction.  Making sure that your replacements are within the guidelines of what your insurance covers will save on out of pocket expense. 

Hopefully most of us will not have to go through the traumatic experience of watching their home or business fall victim to fire.  While it may be a rare occurrence for most of us it is important to know what to do if it does happen to you.  Some statistics of the damage caused by fire in Oregon can be found here from the U.S. Fire Administration.  This list, while not exhaustive, is a good guide to help alleviate some of the stresses that can result from a fire. 

Tips to Keep Your Christmas Tree From Catching Fire

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

This time of year, we all enjoy the decorations, music and festivities of the holiday season.  One of the most important elements of decor to many is the Christmas tree.  This iconic image makes its appearance once a year in downtown areas, stores and of course living rooms all across the country.  One concern for many who choose to put a beautiful tree in their home is if it is in fact a fire hazard.

According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Agency) between 2013-2017, U.S. fire departments responded to an average 160 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year.  Another staggering fact from the NFPA is that on average, one of every 52 reported home fires that began with a Christmas tree resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 135 total reported home fires.  Now we don’t want to dissuade anyone from enjoying a tree in their home, we simply hope that you take proper precautions to not become a statistic. 

Some of the best tips to protect your home or business from a Christmas tree fire are quite simple to do. 

This list should help to ensure a safe and happy holiday, without a devastating Christmas tree fire:

• Make sure string lights are in excellent condition and do not have loose connections, cracked lamps or frayed cords.
• Use only a single extension cord that can reach your home's outlet without being too long and being tangled.
• Use UL-approved lights and cords.
• Make sure lights are off when you go out and before you turn in for the night.
• Make sure all outdoor light connectors are away from metal rain gutters and off the ground.
• Never use candles to light or decorate a tree.
• Purchasing a freshly cut tree can lessen the chance of a fire hazard, and it smell better!
• Ensure your tree is at least three feet away from any heat source.
• Water the tree every day and remove it from your home after Christmas or once it becomes dry. 
• Avoid burning Christmas tree branches or wrapping paper in your fireplace.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that could burn. 

This video from the National Fire Prevention Association shows that in less than a minute a Christmas tree fire can be extremely damaging. 

SERVPRO of Southeast Portland wishes all our friends and neighbors a safe and happy holiday season.  If you are unfortunate enough to experience a fire this season remember that we are always, “Here to help.” 

More Than The Pie Got Burned

12/19/2019 (Permalink)

Earlier this year we received a call from a local pie shop in Multnomah Oregon that they had damage due to a fire.  Unfortunately an oven had caught fire at Prosperity Pie Shoppe in the Multnomah Village neighborhood.  Once the fire had been extinguished we were more than happy to assist with the clean up efforts to get our favorite pie shoppe back up and running.  We immediately began our fire restoration process to minimize business interruption that occurs after an unfortunate event such as a fire.  

More about the business, which their full name is Sacred Money Studios & Prosperity Pie is more than just pies.  Their mission is more than just making delicious pies.  In fact the shop has a social mission of providing job training, growth-oriented work opportunities and money management education for previously incarcerated women in the Portland area.  SERVPRO of Southeast Portland was proud to help get them back to helping our community. 

Having Photos Helps with Insurance Claims if a Fire Occurs, But….

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

It is important to take the time to document your home and belongings via photo in the unforeseen event that a fire occurs.  This is a definitive way to prove what condition the structure was in prior to the fire.  It also provides proof of all the belongings that you owned as well as their condition.  This can prove extremely valuable when dealing with your insurance company to file a claim for loss and damages. 

The value of this was made more evident by a situation I was told about recently in which a person whose home had caught fire.  Due to a faulty dryer his home was devastated by fire.  He left for just a few minutes and returned to the fire department doing their best to contain the fire.  He had beeen smart in that he had taken pictures of the home and his belongings, but he used his phone.  Which doesn’t seem to be a problem except for the fact that he had left his phone in the home and the pictures were only stored on his device.

This is an unfortunate circumstance that could easily happen to anyone.  We don’t always take our phone with us on a short trip.  Fortunately, there are many ways to store and backup our photos now days with many different cloud based and remote storage options.  Icloud, Google Drive and Dropbox are just a few of the options that are readily available to us.  If you are less tech savvy and still print your photos keeping a copy of them in a fire-proof safe or a safety deposit box are also viable options.  The moral is that while it is important to have pictures of your property and belongings it is equally important to have them stored in a manner that will not be affected in the event of a fire.

How SERVPRO can make smoke damage “Like it never even happened.”

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

After the brave firefighters have performed their job the aftermath left behind can be daunting.  That’s where SERVPRO of Southeast Portland takes pride in our ability to help those who have just endured a fire.  When the reality sets in of all the damage that the fire has caused it may be hard to conceive that the building will never return to normal. Our trained technicians work hard to do just that, make your home or commercial building return to normal. 

The danger of the fire may be gone, but damage can continue to affect the structure and belongings. Ash and smoke, if left alone will likely cause extensive corrosion, etching, discoloration as well as lingering powerful odors. Our trained professionals that clean fire and smoke damage can stop this before it becomes a major problem.

The sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can begin the fire restoration process.  Our caring staff will work diligently to restore the damage to your building and belongings that were affected by the unfortunate fire.  Our company goal is to make this traumatic event “Like it never even happened.”

Top 5 Causes of Fire in Portland

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Cooking

It seems everyone in Portland loves to cook and eat, but it is important to practice your culinary skills in a safe manner.  Fires caused by cooking are the number one cause of fires in Portland.  Who doesn’t like deep fat fried foods, but be careful since frying with oil is one of the main causes of cooking related fires.  Others include flammables near open flames, leaving the cooking area, faulty appliances and cooking while impaired.  So, enjoy cooking, just remember to be safe. 

 Cigarettes

We all know how bad cigarettes are for your health and being a leading cause of fires is just one more reason not to smoke.

Electrical Safety

One reason to buy those new appliances you’ve been wanting is that electrical fires caused by faulty electrical outlets and old, outdated appliances are common.  Need a reason to update your lighting, well light fixtures, lamps and light bulbs are another common reason for electrical fires.  The use of extension cords and space heaters are also a cause of fires that should be addressed.

Home Heating Equipment

No matter what method you use to heat your home there is always the possibility it may cause a fire.  Whether you have a wood stove, fireplace, gas or electric heat care should be taken to ensure they are functioning properly to prevent a possible fire. 

Candle Safety

Candles are great.  They create a pleasant ambience.  They smell nice and they provide light.  Just make sure you don’t leave them going while your sleeping or leave the house. 

Second Opinion

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southeast Portland got an interesting  call one day. A client in SE PDX called in about a home going on the market. Turns out upon checking into the homes history the client discovered the home had experienced a fire 10 years prior that was unknown to them. Doing a little more investigation the client found out that the home had fire/smoke remediation done for the fire that occurred. For reasons unknown to the client as well as ourselves the attic of said home had no remediation work done to it. For this specific case we went in did our initial inspection and discussed with the client potential work the can and should be done. With SERVPRO of Southeast Portland as a client you can always be reassured that there will be no stone left unturned when you call us do your job. Customer and client satisfaction is our number one priority. 

The Reason Fire Damage Jobs Are Best Left to Professionals

12/14/2018 (Permalink)

Grease fire tore through the family room as well as kitchen.

A simple day turned into a horrible tragedy for a local family here in Southeast Portland when they experienced a grease fire that tore through half of their home. It caused extensive damage. In their time of need SERVPRO of Southeast Portland was there and ready to help. The family called us in and requested services immediately. Our team made the process as easy and simple for the family reassuring them along the way letting them know exactly what was needed and that SERVPRO of Southeast Portland would be there to help every step of the way. The before picture shows just a glimpse of the damage caused. When all the work was done the family couldn't have been more happier with SERVPRO of Southeast Portland and how their home was not only restored but improved making it "Like it never even happened." 

Smoke Damage to a Local Church

12/14/2018 (Permalink)

This wall heater was one of the causes of damage. Multiple heaters in the church malfunctioned this day.

Wall heaters at a SE Portland Catholic church had a malfunction while running on a cold Portland weekday spewing out black smoke. Luckily the pastor was in his office at the time and caught it before a fire started. He turned the heater off and contacted his local firefighters. The firefighters cleared the church and made sure it was safe to return inside. From there their insurance agency recommended they give a call to SERVPRO of Southeast Portland for smoke remediation. Our team was out there within the hour doing the inspection to quickly start the remediation process. We got our equipment placed them throughout the structure starting the remediation, and got our techs to work. The entire process went by smoothly and the good people of the Catholic church couldn't stop their praises for the amazing work that SERVPRO of Southeast Portland had done. 

Portland Smoke and Soot Cleanup

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

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 Southeast Portland 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 – (503) 427-9535

Why Immediate Fire Damage Restoration is So Important

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

When a fire occurs in a home, the aftermath can seem overwhelming, and if fire restoration is postponed, the destruction from smoke damage can become even worse. The longer you wait to address the damage, the more repairs you'll have to fix - which means you'll most likely have a larger bill for damages when all is said and done. You can avoid costly repairs and long-term issues if you make fire damage restoration a priority and follow the steps you'll need to get your home back to normal as soon as possible.

Contact a Fire Damage Restoration Service

First, and foremost - and this is the most important step - find a fire restoration contractor who can assess the damage, give you an estimate on costs and start the cleanup process. Contact your home insurance company to make them aware of the fire and ask them for referrals for reliable businesses in your area. It's essential that you enlist the help of a licensed and insured fire damage restoration company to reduce the risk of further damage to your home. They are trained to handle this type of damage and many will perform some of the following steps to help get you through the initial fire cleanup:

• Smoke and fire damage restoration services will try to save as many of your home and personal belongings (such as appliances, furniture and clothing) as they can.
• Document everything they remove from your home by taking pictures and/or keeping written records.
• Return any salvageable furniture and appliances back to your home, after the fire restoration is complete.
• Work quickly and carefully to get you back in your home as soon as possible, and stay in contact with you to make sure the repairs were done correctly and your home isn't experiencing any other problems.

Be sure to go through your home insurance company when hiring a fire damage restoration service, or do a thorough background check if you choose one on your own to make sure they are licensed and insured. Be wary of “fire chasing” contractors who target victims of house fires and pressure them into signing expensive repair contracts, perform extremely low-quality repair work and might not be licensed or insured.

Start Fire Cleanup Right Away

While it's best to have a qualified fire restoration company like SERVPRO of Southeast Portland handle the smoke damage restoration, there are some small tasks you can do to help minimize the initial damage before the professionals come in to do the major cleanup. Remember that safety comes first, so if there’s no way to safely gain access into your home, then stay out until the professionals arrive. If it is possible to enter your house, make sure you’re wearing work gloves, long sleeves/pants, and proper respiratory protection, such as a mask because exposure to soot can cause respiratory problems and other medical issues.

• VENTILATION - Open all the windows and air out the house as much (and as often) as possible. Use box fans to force out dust and contaminated air. Fire damage restoration professionals will use industrial-strength fans and other air-moving equipment to help reduce the smoke damage your home has been subjected to, but in the meantime, proper ventilation is key to helping remove a lot of the polluted (and unsafe) air.
• CLEANING - Scrub all surfaces (and inside cabinets and drawers) with soap and water. You can also use an alkaline cleaner, which neutralizes the acid that’s found in soot to help cut down on the smoky smell. Counteractants—chemicals used to break up smoke molecules to eliminate odors—may be used, but it’s best left to the professionals to handle such products.
• LAUNDRY - Wash all bedding, clothing, curtains and items that can be machine washed with an alkaline cleaner (you may have to wash items more than once). Delicate fabrics will need to be professionally dry cleaned by someone who is familiar with articles that have smoke damage. Only use washers and dryers that haven’t been exposed to smoke or experienced significant fire damage.

Professional smoke removal and restoration companies will perform a thorough cleanup using industrial-grade products and equipment, such as dry cleaning soot sponges to remove loose soot and specialized vacuum filters to clean carpet and upholstery.

Prolonged Smoke Damage

Fire damage is tricky because some signs are apparent—such as discoloration on walls and ceilings and dark stains from smoke on surfaces—but others are not, such as odors trapped in hidden places. Air conditioner vents, the space behind walls and the outside walls of your home are all areas where ash and soot can be deposited and continue to cause damage if they aren't taken care of in a timely manner.

Make sure to have the HVAC system, attic/roof, and exterior walls inspected and properly cleaned, too, because your home will continue to suffer from smoke damage until the soot is completely removed by a fire damage restoration service, like SERVPRO of Southeast Portland. Don't hesitate to call us to handle your fire or smoke damage! (503) 427-9535

What To Do After a Fire

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

After a Fire

The following checklist serves as a quick reference and guide for you to follow after a fire strikes.

• Contact your local disaster relief service. if you need temporary housing, food and medicines.
• If you are insured, contact your insurance company for detailed instructions on protecting the property, conducting inventory and contacting fire damage restoration companies.  If you are not insured, try contacting private organizations for aid and assistance.
• Check with the fire department to make sure your residence is safe to enter. Be watchful of any structural damage caused by the fire.
• The fire department should see that utilities are either safe to use or are disconnected before they leave the site.  DO NOT attempt to reconnect utilities yourself.
• Conduct an inventory of damaged property and items.  Do not throw away any damaged goods until after an inventory is made.
• Try to locate valuable documents and records.  Refer to information on contacts and the replacement process inside this brochure.
• Begin saving receipts for any money you spend related to fire loss.  The receipts may be needed later by the insurance company and for verifying losses claimed on income tax.
• Notify your mortgage company of the fire.

Give SERVPRO of Southeast Portland a call at (503) 427-9535 to assist with any fire damage restoration needs.

Tips to Prevent a Home Fire

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

Prevent Home Fires

Home fires are preventable! The following are simple steps that each of us can take to prevent a tragedy.

Cooking

• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.
• Keep children away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of 3 feet around the stove.
• Position barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

Smoking

• Smoke outside and completely stub out butts in an ashtray or a can filled with sand.
• Soak cigarette butts and ashes in water before throwing them away. Never toss hot cigarette butts or ashes in the trash can.
• Never smoke in a home where oxygen is used, even if it is turned off. Oxygen can be explosive and makes fire burn hotter and faster.
• Be alert - don’t smoke in bed! If you are sleepy, have been drinking, or have taken medicine that makes you drowsy, put your cigarette out first.

Electrical and Appliance Safety

• Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
• If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
• Immediately shut off, then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to the touch and lights that flicker.

Portable Space Heaters

• Keep combustible objects at least three feet away from portable heating devices.
• Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• Check to make the portable heater has a thermostat control mechanism, and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over.
• Only use crystal clear K-1 kerosene in kerosene heaters. Never overfill it. Use the heater in a well-ventilated room.

Fireplaces and Woodstoves

• Inspect and clean woodstove pipes and chimneys annually and check monthly for damage or obstructions.
• Use a fireplace screen heavy enough to stop rolling logs and big enough to cover the entire opening of the fireplace to catch flying sparks.
• Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the house or going to bed.

Children

• Take the mystery out of fire play by teaching children that fire is a tool, not a toy.
• Store matches and lighters out of children's reach and sight, preferably in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children unattended near operating stoves or burning candles, even for a short time.

More Prevention Tips

• Never use stove range or oven to heat your home.
• Keep combustible and flammable liquids away from heat sources.
• Portable generators should NEVER be used indoors and should only be refueled outdoors or in well ventilated areas.

Why You Should Leave Smoke Damage Removal to a Professional

12/11/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke damage removal is one of the most difficult aspects of a house fire. It is also one of the most important tasks you need to tackle after a fire has damaged your home, and it is essential that you begin smoke damage removal immediately after a house fire to restore your home to its former state. However, entering your home to begin smoke damage removal after a house fire is usually unsafe, as it is likely your home’s structure has sustained fire and water damage. Therefore, you should always leave smoke damage removal to a professional restoration company, as they have the proper equipment, expertise, and experience to handle this task. To understand why it is necessary to leave this task to a professional, it can be helpful to know some information about the equipment and expertise required to implement smoke damage removal successfully.

Smoke Damage Removal Requires Special Equipment

One of the biggest reasons that smoke damage removal is not something you should do yourself is that it usually requires special, industrial-grade equipment to remove it from your home effectively. Smoke often seeps into the walls of your home and can cause future health issues if not removed properly. The best method for removing smoke odor from your home is with thermal fogging, a technique professionals use that works by opening the pores in your walls and neutralizing the smoke odor hidden within them. This combined with dehumidifiers to dry any water damage and ozone generators to help get the smoky smell out of your home is an effective method professionals use to make your home smoke-free. Depending on the extent of the damage to your home, it is likely the restoration company may need to repaint the walls and ceilings in your home after the smoke damage removal process is complete.

Smoke Damage Removal Requires Certain Expertise

In addition to requiring special equipment to remove smoke from your home thoroughly, smoke damage removal also requires a professional to have certain expertise about the different types of smoke and the necessary chemicals to remove them. For example, the smoke odor from wood can react differently to certain cleaning products than smoke odor from plastics, which means you could damage your home further if you do not know which type of smoke residue and odor you are dealing with. Professional fire restoration companies know details about the different types of smoke and how to deal with them properly, which means they are your best resource for cleaning, repairing, and restoring your home to its original state.

Smoke damage removal is one of the most frustrating and difficult tasks homeowners must deal with after a house fire. It requires much time, effort, and expertise, and is something you should always leave to a professional restoration company. For more information about smoke damage removal or finding the best professional to handle it for you, it is a good idea to contact a fire damage contractor.

Why You Should Get Fire Damage Estimates

12/11/2017 (Permalink)

After a house fire, getting fire damage estimates is critical. Without knowing the full extent of the damage, you may end up overspending on repairs or restoration. Either your homeowners’ insurance company or a third-party restoration company can provide the fire damage estimates for you. After a devastating event like a house fire, it is helpful to know just how much money you have to repair or restore your home to its former state. Since you should hire a restoration company anyway, fire damage estimates make the task of doing so much easier.

Discrepancies in Fire Damage Estimates

If your insurance company and third-party restoration company have a discrepancy in their fire damage estimates, one of two things are likely to happen: they can agree to a middle ground or begin arbitration. Choosing the middle ground option is a compromise of sorts and may include any number of outcomes, which are all dependent on the specifics of your situation. The other option involves including a third party, having them inspect and formulate an appraisal of the damage, and present that as an acceptable value. All of this depends heavily on your insurance company, the restoration company, applicable state laws, and the circumstances surrounding the fire.

What Fire Damage Estimates Do

Fire damage estimates allow you and your hired full-service restoration company to plan the restoration of your home. By having an effective budget, the company can do their best for you and make sure that they can return your home to its former. Most importantly, fire damage estimates include services that restoration companies do that you are unable to, such as removing smoke odors from your home or rebuilding any structures that the fire has damaged. Other costs that require professional help, such as special dry-cleaning of your garments and fabrics, may also be included. Additionally, if you attempt the repairs and accidentally cause more damage, chances are that the insurance does not cover the extra damage, whereas with a restoration company, it is covered.

Fire damage estimates allow a professional full-service restoration company to restore your home to its former state in the most effective manner possible. With a clear plan on which services you need, how much they cost, and how the company implements them, they can cater to your individual needs. After a devastating event such as a fire, money should not be your primary concern. A full-service restoration company can take care of all aspects regarding the remediation of the fire damage so you can concentrate on other things. For more information about fire damage estimates for your home, contact your insurance company.

Fire and Smoke

6/22/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke Damage

Smoke damage can appear in two forms. In the case of a slow, smoldering fire, the resulting smoke residue (soot) will be sticky, wet and strong smelling. Wet soot has an oily texture that stains carpets, furniture and any cloth furnishings in the house. A fast burning fire, however, leaves behind dry soot that smears and stains less—but the dry soot often becomes damp due to the moisture from the fire hose. Smoke damage remediation involves the use of industrial-strength vacuuming to suck up the soot without smearing it. Attempting to brush off soot only embeds it deeper into the fabric. As the pros vacuum the room, each area is covered with a drop cloth to protect it. Smoke odor, on the other hand, lingers in fabrics and is not as straightforward to remove. Professional cleaners use different chemicals to break down smoke molecules. Other methods including ozone treatment and applying specially formulated paint that seals up the source of smoke odor.

With Fire Damage, Comes Water Damage

6/22/2017 (Permalink)

anyone who has been through a fire knows that where there’s smoke, there’s water—and lots of it after firefighters have finished battling a blaze. The key to salvaging your belongings from water damage and preventing mold is to act quickly to begin the process of removing the moisture from your carpets, furniture and walls. Professionals use mobile, state-of-the-art water extraction equipment and technology to get the job done as quickly as possible. Standing water is removed from flat surfaces by sponging and blotting. Saturated rugs and carpets are taken up when hardwood floors are at risk…these are just a few examples of the many steps involved in drying out a structure and restoring its contents. With proper precautions (and a dose of good luck), you may never experience the trauma of a fire or dealing with its messy aftermath.

Why Hire a Professional for Fire Damage?

6/14/2017 (Permalink)

The flames are extinguished and the firefighters and emergency personnel have vacated the premises. After all the chaos and flaming battle, all seems settled now and safe once again. Conditions will not naturally return to normal, however. The smoke damage will linger until properly dispatched.

Fire leaves behind damages and reminders of its presence. The ash and smoke left behind can cause additional damage to the property if left untreated. Corrosion, etching and discoloration and odors are unwelcomed results of the treacherous fire and its remains. Such factors will impair the structure of the building, putting its inhabitants at risk.

SERVPRO of Southeast Portland has a vast array of products and highly skilled and trained fire damage technicians who can make it "Like it never even happened."

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