Safety tips to prepare your family incase of a Fire

2/20/2023 (Permalink)

Have a plan in place incase of an emergency for your family.

A grease fire that starts in the kitchen or an electrical fire caused by faulty wiring, fires can happen in the blink of an eye. You may be prepared for them and know what to do when they occur, but to avoid serious injuries make sure to prepare your family with a plan.

Tips to prevent injuries to your family

In the event of a fire, here are some tips to help prevent injury, damage and stress. Stop, Drop, and Roll. If a fire breaks out in your home, remember these 3 words to get you out of your home safely. When you go to bed at night, close the bedroom doors to help protect fire and smoke spreading throughout the home. The door will hold off any smoke or fire from getting in the door that could possibly bye you some time for exit. For a small fire, if you feel comfortable, use a fire extinguisher. If you feel like you can't control it call 911 immediately and take it with you when escaping.

Stay Calm

Stay calm. If someone panics or runs around trying to grab things before leaving their home, this could cause them to get hurt or get burned by hot surfaces in your home. Get out of the house immediately and call 911 from outside if possible. Do not go back inside until the fire department gives you permission. Stay low to the ground, keeping your hands on the floor, cover your mouth with a towel or shirt so that no breathable air enters your lungs instead of breathing through your nose or mouth.

It is important that these things be discussed frequently to ensure your family has a meeting place outside of the home to account for everyone for safety. It is very important that everyone stays out of the home to prevent injury by falling debris or smoke inhalation even after the flames have been extinguished. Don't go back inside until firefighters tell you it's safe again.

Remember, it’s important to have a plan in place and know what to do in case of an emergency. You should also make sure everyone in your family knows the plan so they can help out if necessary. By following these tips, you can help keep everyone safe during any type of fire situation.

How Ozone Generators Remediate Smoke Smell

12/1/2022 (Permalink)

After a fire, using ozone generators is a secure and efficient technique to eliminate smoke odor.

How Ozone Generators Eliminate the Smell of Smoke

Ozone generators are used to remove smoke smell from a property. In this article, we'll discuss how ozone is made, the science behind it, and how it's used to remove smoke smells.

What is an ozone generator?

An ozone generator is a device that emits ozone in the air. It's typically used to clean up rooms, buildings and other areas that have a bad smell. Ozone generators can be used indoors or outdoors, even after the smoke smell from a fire has already dissipated.

For example, if there was an electrical fire in your home and you had to get out quickly, there will still be lingering smoke smells left over after the flames have been extinguished. These odors can be hard to get rid of on their own; but with an ozone generator it's easy! With one quick pass of your unit through each area affected by the smoke smell — whether it be simply walking through all affected rooms or using some sort of fan system — the room will feel fresh again!

Ozone generators are also good options if there was mold in your home at any point before this incident happened (or if there is now). The high levels of humidity caused by flooding leaves behind spores which need cleaning up immediately because otherwise they'll spread throughout nearby areas quickly creating more problems down the line.

How does it work?

Ozone generators are powerful oxidizers that break down organic compounds in the air. Ozone, the ozone generator's product, is a gas that can be used in a variety of ways. It's produced by an ozone generator and acts as an odor neutralizer by attacking smoke odors at the source. Ozone is naturally occurring in the earth's atmosphere and created by lightning when it strikes oxygen molecules in the air.

Is ozone bad for my stuff?

Ozone is a natural element that comes from the air, so it's not harmful to people or animals. Ozone is safe to use in homes, offices, and other settings where ozone generators are used to remediate smoke smell.

Ozone does not damage furniture, carpet, clothing, or other household items. If you're concerned about using an ozone generator around your belongings, test a small area before using it all over if you have any doubt at all about whether it might be harmful.

Important factors in odor removal

Ozone is a powerful oxidizer. In the presence of smoke, ozone will react with the organic molecules and break them apart. When this happens, the odor will be removed from your home. Ozone is not effective at removing other odors besides smoke or mold and mildew. It can't remove pet odors because they're caused by bacteria that grow on the surfaces where pets spend time (their beds, for example).

If you want to neutralize a room filled with smoke odor, consider using an ozone generator in combination with another method like dehumidifiers or air purifiers (or both!).

What is the key to ozone's effectiveness? 

The key to ozone's effectiveness is its ability to kill bacteria, viruses, and mold. In fact, ozone is an extremely powerful oxidizer. It can be used to purify water by oxidizing organic contaminants like pesticides, herbicides, and other toxins in the water.

Ozone generators are also used for deodorization in a variety of industries such as food processing plants where they eliminate odors from smelly foods such as fish or chicken carcasses that may have spoiled during processing into products such as tuna fish cans or chicken nuggets.

Ozone generators also help remediate smoke smell from fire damage by using the same principle: killing bacteria with ozone gas so that no further contamination occurs after your home has been cleared out of fumes or toxic particles from a fire rescue effort

Why SERVPRO professionals recommend using ozone to remediate a home after a fire.

Ozone generators are a safe and effective way to remove smoke smell after a fire. They're also safe for use around pets and children. In addition, ozone generators are portable, so you can use them in any room of the home.

They're easy to use: Simply plug in your ozone generator, turn it on and set it on the floor near where you'd like to deodorize. Within minutes, that smoke smell will be gone!

There are many ways to remove smoke smell in your home. You can try cleaning products, air fresheners, or even candles (though those aren’t recommended). But the best way is to call SERVPRO of Beverly Hills/ Westwood who uses ozone generators. That way, you know that the job will be done right and that you won’t have to worry about any toxic chemicals being released into your indoor environment.

What To Do When You Smell Natural Gas

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

A potential gas fire is an emergency!

Steps To Protect Yourself And Your Family

If your home in Beverly Hills, CA uses gas for heating or cooking, it's important to know what to do in the event of a gas leak. On its own, natural gas doesn't have a smell, so providers put additives in that give it a scent in order to protect consumers. If you smell gas inside or outside of your home or hear a hissing sound, there are steps to take to ensure that you protect yourself and your family.

1. Don't Touch the Lights
When you first smell gas and you're not sure what's happening, the first step is to NOT turn on the lights. If there is a leak, turning a light switch on or off can trigger a reaction that causes a gas fire. Similarly, don't use matches, start or stop appliances, or use the phone.

2. Check the Stove
Check the stove to make sure that all the burners are off. One common reason that you smell gas but a gas explosion isn't imminent is that a burner was accidentally bumped on.

3. Open the Windows
If you can verify that the natural gas smell was caused by an improperly closed burner, it's safe to open the windows and doors to air out the house. However, if you've checked the stove and no burners are on, it's important to leave the windows closed to prevent oxygen from getting to a flame.

4. Leave the House
When the stove is ruled out as the cause of the smell, it's time to leave the house — and quickly. Worry only about getting the people in your home out; don't try to take extra items with you. A potential gas fire is an emergency!

5. Call for Help
Once you're safely away from the house (at least across the street), call 911 for help. In the event of an explosion that causes damage, an emergency restoration team will work with you to get you back in your home quickly.
A gas fire is a common way that homes sustain damage. If you think you smell gas, protect your family by leaving the house and calling for help.

Is a Smart Smoke Alarm Right for You?

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Investing in smart detectors to improve your home's security can be a wise move.

Are You a Good Candidate for a Smart Smoke Alarm?

Changing your Beverly Hills, CA, smoke alarm to a smart device can seem like a big jump. After all, these detectors have performed well without any significant changes to their design. However, smart detectors add peace of mind and fire safety features you don't have with a traditional alarm.

Device Types
A smoke detector is essential. It keeps you safe and helps you avoid the need for fire mitigation services.
Three main kinds of smart devices enhance the ability to detect smoke in your home:

• Smart detector
  
• Listener
  
• Smart batteries
  
  

A smart smoke detector is an entire device that replaces your previous one. It connects to your phone, and you receive notifications through an app. You can silence false alarms and learn when it's time to change the batteries. Some models include carbon monoxide detection. Smart detectors usually run $100 or more per device.
Listeners are devices you plug into your wall. They listen for the specific frequency of a smoke alarm and send you a notification if one activates. If your home only requires one detector, a listener probably won't save you money since it costs around $100. However, a device can listen to one or more floors of your home, so you can potentially save money with a listener instead of purchasing several new alarms.
Smart batteries operate like 9-volt batteries. They connect to your phone and send notifications when the alarm goes off. They also notify you when the battery life reaches its end.

Choosing a Smart Smoke Alarm
The device you choose depends on your home's size, how old your current detectors are, and how much you're willing to spend. If you have one alarm nearly 10 years old, it may be worth it to replace it with a smart device. A listener or smart battery may be more economical if you have several newer alarms.
Enhancing the safety of your home with smart detectors can be a good decision. It helps first to consider the cost and return on your investment.

The Benefits of Regular Furnace Maintenance

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Change the furnace filters and make sure there are no obstructions around the unit.

Furnace Maintenance

During times of cold weather, your furnace must bring you heat when you need it the most. To increase the likelihood of this happening, it makes sense to have a regular maintenance plan for this important item in your home in Westwood Village, CA. A few of these items you can do yourself, such as changing the furnace filters and making sure there are no obstructions around the unit. It is also a good idea to keep combustible items away from the heat source, so you won't need any fire cleaning services. For professional maintenance, it is best to call in a licensed HVAC contractor.

The Value of an Efficient Furnace
Dirt is one of the biggest enemies of your heating system. It can cause your unit to run less efficiently and it can cause wear and tear on components and hardware. A clean and well-oiled furnace provides many benefits to your home:

• A quiet and efficient operation
  
• A reliable heating unit
  
• An absence of emergency repairs
  
• A safe system
  
  

A well-maintained furnace is just one way to increase fire safety in your home. If you do need fire cleaning services, it is also important to hire a trusted fire mitigation franchise. Trained technicians will arrive at your home quickly and help you minimize damage and reduce costs.

The Importance of Smoke Cleaning
Even a small fire has the potential to cause soot and smoke damage. Fire restoration experts use advanced equipment and cleaning techniques to remove the most difficult stains and the most pervasive smells from a home fire. To deodorize a home, an odor control technician uses tools such as ozone machines, thermal foggers and air filtration devices. They understand the science behind smoke odors and can usually remove all hints of unpleasant smells. This is just one aspect of professional fire cleaning after a home fire, whether it is caused by your heating system or some other source.

How To Clean Up After a Commercial Fire

3/19/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage in Beverly Hills, CA.

You may be skilled and efficient at running your business in Beverly Hills, CA, growing your customer base and dealing with personnel, however do you know what your business needs after a fire? Fires can be an unexpected disaster that can feel difficult to overcome. Knowing what steps need to be taken can make the fire and smoke damage cleanup feel more manageable.

What Things Need Cleanup After a Fire

Following a fire, there are several things that need doing right away. Specific processes need to be used for specific damage in order to salvage content. Following is a partial guide to cleaning:

• Dry cleaning for clothing and fabric items
  
• Ozone for smoke cleaning
  
• Vacuuming for loose soot
  
• Ultrasonic for non-porous surfaces
  
• Inspection of the structural elements
  
  

Know the Difference Between Soot and Smoke

Soot can be a tricky substance to clean as it is greasy and sticky. It is composed of incompletely burned oily or greasy materials and can contain toxic chemicals, so it must be cleaned carefully. Soot also carries a foul stench that may need extra cleaning. It cannot be dissipated unless the actual soot is removed.
Smoke odor can also be a plaguing problem. Smoke damage can cause staining and may even cause certain materials to become brittle. It can leave a clinging residue on every surface it touches and carries odor as well. The smoke odor can be removed by using an ozone machine.
Structural materials that are otherwise salvageable may still be affected by soot damage and the odors it carries. Cleaning the soot from studs, sheetrock, ceilings, countertops and other surfaces is critical to the elimination of the smell. Once cleanup is finished the structural restoration can begin.

In Beverly Hills, CA, you can get the help you need from qualified fire restoration professionals that are trained in cleaning smoke damage and the smells that go with it. You can have hope that your commercial building will be sound and clean smelling again soon.

How To Choose and Use a Fire Extinguisher for Your Home

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

Identify the appropriate type of extinguisher.

You hope you never have to face a fire in your home, but taking appropriate precautions is an important way to prepare for emergencies. One of the first things you should do, in addition to installing appropriate fire and smoke alarms, is to put a fire extinguisher in the kitchen.

Types and Classes of Extinguishers

The first step is to identify the appropriate type of extinguisher. There are several options available. These include:

• Water
  
• Water Mist
  
• AFFF Foam
  
• Carbon Dioxide
  
• ABC Powder
  
• Wet Chemical
  
  

It's important to understand which of these is best for your home. Look at the class designations to make this decision, for example water and foam fire extinguishers are only appropriate for class A fires.

• Class A: solid combustible materials, such as paper, coal, and wood
• Class B: flammable liquids, such as paints, alcohol, and paraffin
• Class C: combustion gases, such as propane, methane, and natural gas
• Class D: flammable metals, such as aluminum, sodium, and potassium
• Class K: combustible cooking materials, such as fats and grease
• Electrical: electrical appliances, such as stereos and fuse boxes

Why the Correct Choice Matters

Using the correct extinguisher is vital. For example, if you were to use a water mist extinguisher on a Class F fire, the water may send drops of burning oil or grease around the room, causing fire damage and injuries to your family members. The extinguishers recommended for homes are Class ABC with higher classification numbers, such as a 3-A:40-B:C unit.

How To Use an Extinguisher

Once you've chosen your extinguisher, follow the PASS sequence to put out flames before fire damage becomes too severe.

• PULL the pin.
• Aim at the base of the fire.
• SQUEEZE the lever or button about the handle.
• SWEEP from side to side.

If you already have extinguishers in your home, check the date. Even if you haven't used the devices, they may lose pressure or effectiveness if they are too old.

Keep Your Home and Family Safe

Fire extinguishers are a vital element of home and family safety. If you're not sure where to keep the safety devices or how many you need for your home, contact fire remediation professionals in Century City, CA.

The 3 Best Candle Alternatives

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Fairy lights can add a magical touch indoors or outdoors with a lower fire risk.

Three Flameless Candle Alternatives

Candles cause a large number of house fires. Children or pets can accidentally overturn a candle and ignite nearby combustible materials. These fires also frequently start when open flames are left unattended in a bedroom after the person who lit the candle falls asleep. Here are three flameless candle alternatives that you should consider to produce similar mood lighting effects or scents.

1. Electric Candles

Battery-operated candles are perfect for safer use for decorative purposes or as nightlights in the bedroom. These candles may be designed to flicker or disperse a scent. You can find an electric alternative for most colors, styles, and fragrances of candles, whether you desire a pillar, taper, or tea light look. You can place electric candles almost anywhere without worrying about starting a fire.

2. Christmas or Fairy Lights

Strings of lights are a safe way to add a magical touch indoors or outdoors with a lower fire risk. Use these candle alternatives to create a low-light look when decorating a room or for a holiday. You can select single- or multi-colored strings of lights and choose from standard bulbs or models with ultra-efficient LED bulbs. It is affordable to replace individual bulbs or an entire strand.

3. Candle Warmers

If you have standard scented candles that you would like to enjoy more safely, try pairing them with a candle warmer. These devices are available as low-profile bases or lamp-style designs. You can also spread a scent using oil or wax warmers or reed diffusers for a different look.

These candle alternatives allow you to create lighting looks you love or enjoy the scent of standard wax candles. All of these options also significantly reduce the risk of starting a candle fire. If a fire does break out at your home in Bel Air, CA, schedule a consultation with a residential fire and smoke restoration service.

Uh-Oh… My Food Is on Fire!

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

A grease fire may result in your home requiring fire cleanup.

How To Extinguish Food Fire

If a grease fire occurs in your home, it is important you know how to properly extinguish it. These fires are different from other types of fires as they ignite as a result of oils becoming too hot, and they should never be extinguished using water. Fires that begin as a result of vegetable oil, animal fats, or other greases should be extinguished as follows:

1. Turn off the heat source. Simply turn the stove knob to the off position without removing any pots or pans from the stovetop.

2. Cover the flames with a metal lid. You can use a baking sheet if you do not have a lid large enough to cover the pot or pan that is on fire. This cuts off the oxygen that the fire requires to continue burning. Do not use a glass lid as they run the risk of shattering.

3. Throw baking soda or salt on the fire to further extinguish it. Only use these two common kitchen ingredients. Never use flour or baking powder as their individual chemical makeup can actually feed the fire rather than put it out.

As a last resort, you can use a fire extinguisher to put out a grease fire. Only use a Class B extinguisher and aim it at the lower portion of the flames, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

What To Do If You Cannot Put the Fire Out

In the event that a fire spreads in your home, evacuate immediately. Be sure to close the door when you exit to help contain the fire. When you have reached a safe distance, call 911 and wait for firefighters to extinguish the flames. Do not re-enter your home under any circumstances until you have been informed that it is safe for you to do so by fire officials.

A grease fire may result in your home requiring fire cleanup. Should you need these services in Westwood, CA, it is best to always hire a fire restoration company.

The Tricky Relationship Between Fire and Insurance

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a Beverly Hills, CA home.

What Is The Relationship Between Fire And Insurance?

A standard insurance policy for residential fire damage typically covers most common causes of home fires and damage. The coverage can include cooking fires, electrical short blazes, and overheating Christmas light flames. The average policy can also cover fires resulting from lightning, theft, and vandalism. However, there are two types of fire damages that are not generally covered in Beverly Hills,CA  however. The two exceptions are arson insurance fraud and a vacant home fire.

Arson Insurance Fraud

A deliberately set fire is known as arson and is a criminal offence that is punishable by fines, restitution, and prison or jail time. Although torching is generally a result of burning someone else’s property or home, there have been individuals found guilty of setting fire to their own buildings with the following items

• Matches
• Combustible fluids
• Incendiary devices
  

Insurance companies do not pay for intentionally set building fires because there has been a long-standing tradition of people paying to have the structure destroyed in order to collect insurance money. Insurance investigators now typically inspect the scene of suspect fires before paying any money to the insured.

Vacant Home Fires

Vacancy is legally defined as a building that has been unoccupied for 30 or more consecutive days. Furthermore, if the insurance company proves the home was vacant when the fire started, the policy will not cover the home fire damage, and no pay-out will be awarded to the insured.

There is one exception to the rule, and that is a vacant home insurance endorsement. Fire repair and restoration experts recommend the additional coverage because it often includes theft, hail, vandalism, wind, and fire damage to vacation homes. Year around coverage is required for this type of endorsement.

Insurance Coverage Inspections

If you have a home fire and an insurance inspector is part of the investigation, do not be overly concerned. Insurance companies have become leery of fire damage claims because so many fraud cases have occurred in the past two decades. If you find yourself working with an insurance fire inspector and your fire damage claim is denied, remember you can appeal the finding.

Having A READY Plan Can Help In The Event Your Home Suffers Fire Damage In Westwood

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Fire on a Westwood, CA home.

Having A READY Plan Can Help After A Fire

Few things in life can prepare us to cope with the effects of disasters and catastrophes. However, residents in Westwood, CA can help prepare themselves and their families to better deal with damage their homes sustain.

When homeowners in Westwood face predicaments such as fire damage, having a READY plan from SERVPRO can help. With one in place before a catastrophic event, homeowners can reduce the trauma their families experience while reducing the extent of the damage to their property.

To make things especially convenient for residents, we developed an app that you can download onto your phone or tablet. Taking the few minutes needed to complete the questionnaire provides us with crucial information whenever disaster strikes at your home. Gathering this information at the time of a fire damage event takes time that we could devote to other activities instead, but a READY Plan ensures this information already exists.

Because we know that some questions do not pertain to all homes, you can add as much information as you desire. Phone numbers and other contact information provided by you enable us to contact others who can also assist us in providing the services your home needs as soon as the fire department finishes.

Once extinguished, we can then begin to assess the damage and the work required to restore your home. Even small fires that did not necessitate a call to the fire department, smoke damage can ruin a home because of its widespread coverage. Charred pieces of belongings and construction materials, smoke and soot, and water all combine to form a hazardous jumble.

Electricity may not work inside your home after a fire due to burnt wires and outlets. SERVPRO can provide the necessary electricity to run our equipment inside your home. We can still mitigate both interior and exterior damage, so your home's restoration happens quickly.

SERVPRO of Beverly Hills / Westwood's customer service professionals can help you with your development of a READY Plan.

Our Advanced Equipment Will Restore Your Home In Century City To Pre-Damage Condition

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

Thermal fogger

The Tools SERVPRO Uses For Smoke And Fire Damage 

One of the most noticeable effects of fire damage in Century City, CA is the presence of smoke odors in the home long after other signs of damage have been repaired or covered up. Smoke particles cannot be masked or neutralized by store-bought air fresheners and deodorizers and typically require the help of a certified restoration company like SERVPRO to remove from your home permanently. We arrive Faster to Any Size Disaster with the appropriate tools and chemicals necessary to eliminate smoke odors from a variety of different types of fires. With these tools in hand, our crews can take care of odors permanently and leave your home without a single scar to show from the fire.

Some of the most high-tech tools SERVPRO technicians use to take care of fire damage in Century City, CA are solely dedicated to the task of neutralizing smoke odors. Our thermal fogging devices create thick fogs of odor-eliminating compounds that mimic the spread of smoke throughout your home and target even the most deeply embedded smoke particles. For tight spaces and smaller areas, we also carry smaller Ultra-Low Volume fogging devices that perform the same functions in hard-to-reach places that may contain smoke residues.

These machines send out specialized mixtures of odor-neutralizing agents that can sometimes be designed for specific types of smoke damage. Fires that burn through wet materials can often produce different residues than dry fires, and if kitchen grease is added into the mix, this may force us to use even more specific chemicals. Our inspectors carefully evaluate the scene of the disaster to determine which mixtures should be used to eradicate all traces of odor from the area. When combined with our extensive cleaning work, HVAC system clean outs, and other restorative procedures, we leave your home looking like the disaster never even happened.

5 Ways To Prevent Your Pet From Causing a Fire

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Never leave your pet alone with anything that is burning

Pet Preparation Measures

When working to avoid a fire emergency from breaking out in your residence, remember that there are steps you can take to prevent your pet from triggering an inferno. Here are five pet preparation measures that will reduce the chances your fur baby inadvertently sparks a blaze.

1. Reduce Flames
Open fires create pleasant atmospherics but always contain an element of danger. Place candles away from tables that might be jiggled by wagging tails or knocked down during overzealous rounds of fetch. Consider substituting electric candles, which also come with fun features, like dimmers and funky colors. Whatever you do, never leave your pet alone with anything that is burning.

2. Address Cords
Puppies and kittens chewing on electrical wires can cause a fire emergency. Cord protectors help keep temptation at bay. Pet stores also offer bitter sprays that can be applied to inhibit your feline’s gnawing impulses.

3. Take Away Oven Knobs
Despite lacking opposable thumbs, curious canines are capable of switching on stoves. If the dials on yours are removable, set them aside every time you leave home. Safety covers are another option that may prevent wayward paws from switching on burners.

4. Institute Monitoring Technologies
Install a camera to observe Fido in your absence. Using your phone, you can easily see what is going on at any time. Have a responsible neighbor on speed dial in case you detect a threatening situation.

5. Restrict Your Pet’s Movement
Use gates to bar animals from entering rooms where danger resides. Knowing Fluffy’s exact location during a fire also enhances pet safety. Quick access to your dog or cat during a crisis is essential. Leave hiring a residential fire restoration expert to repair your home’s damage until after your creature’s safety has been secured.
A fire emergency threatens your pet as much as it does the rest of your family. Inhibit your beastie from triggering a blaze in Westwood Village, CA, by observing the above precautions.

How To Deal With the Aftermath of a Fire in Your Place of Business

11/7/2020 (Permalink)

Broken window in a Century City, CA building

Have You Recently Had A Fire In Your Place Of Business?

The aftermath can be a difficult messy situation to deal with. In many cases, there is more to a fire cleanup than just the damage caused by flames. There will most likely be additional damage caused by:

• Smoke
  
• Broken windows
  
• Holes that firefighters cut through the roof and walls to properly put out the flames
  
• The water that was used to put out the fire.
  
  

Water cleanup can be a particularly difficult task because mold grows quickly in moisture that is difficult to remove.

Resources
The process of cleaning up after a fire in Century City, CA, can seem daunting at first. You may be wondering where to even begin. It is best to call your insurance company as soon as possible and find out if it will pay for the fire damage restoration. If so, the insurance company can advise you and refer you to good companies and contractors.
If you don’t have insurance or your insurance will not cover the costs of damage including smoke cleanup, there are state and local organizations that could help your business. The public health department may be useful, and you may have access to additional community services depending where your company is located. It may take research to find the different services available to help.

Water Damage
A large portion of the repairs after a fire will likely be water cleanup due to putting out the fire. Buildings that have fire sprinkler systems often can mitigate, if not completely put out, a fire. In these situations, the actual damage caused directly from the fire is often minimal. Most of the damage to the structure is a direct result of the water that put out the fire and the moisture it leaves behind. Mold can spread quickly to other areas that were not otherwise affected by the fire.
Fire cleanup can be daunting due to the additional problems that arise, such as mold. Just know that you are not alone. There are professionals available to help with water cleanup and whatever else is needed to restore your business.

Who Needs Renter's Insurance?

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

Renters insurance is a policy that covers you and your property when you don't own your home

After a fire moves through your rental home, one of the first questions on your mind will probably concern what your renter's insurance covers and what isn't covered. To set your mind at ease right from the start, the answer to your question is that when a fire destroys your Century City, CA, apartment, or rental home, your insurance will reimburse you for the lost items and cover the costs of staying somewhere else.

Who Pays for the Damage?

Residential fires are frightening for many reasons and can be especially concerning when you're worried about who will pay for the ensuing damage. Here are some key points to help you know what to expect:

Fires are covered when you have insurance for renters. Make sure you contact your insurance agent before you even move into an apartment.
If your home is uninhabitable, a loss-of-use policy provides you with the means to pay for a hotel in the vicinity.
When fire damage happens because of an accident for which you are responsible, a personal liability provision in your policy provides some reimbursement for the damage.
Your insurance doesn't cover damage done to the physical building and property belonging to the building's owner.
Install smoke detectors or sprinkler systems to reduce the risk of fire and to potentially have lower insurance rates.

Look for fire and smoke coverage in the personal property loss section of your policy. Make sure there is a loss-of-use provision or temporary housing won't be available.

How Do You Know Whether You Have the Right Insurance?
It's always a good idea to research your options when purchasing an insurance policy. Unfortunately, however, some people don't believe they need renters insurance if they have other types of coverage. Many renters believe that the owner of the property has insurance to cover their belongings. This isn't the case. Property owners are not responsible for your belongings unless you can prove negligence which is difficult to do.
Renters insurance is a policy that covers you and your property when you don't own your home. In addition to covering damage from fire and smoke, it also covers water damage, vandalism, theft, and lightning strikes. It may cover some fire restoration offered by qualified professionals, but it doesn't cover physical property that belongs to the property owner.

3 Reasons To Have Fire Insurance for Your Business

7/12/2020 (Permalink)

Maintaining a fire insurance policy for your business can be a good idea for a number of reasons

Three Reasons You May Want To Consider

When you have a business in Century City, CA, it’s also important to have a fire insurance policy. This type of insurance may prove beneficial in several ways after an emergency. Here are three reasons you may want to consider.

1. Insurance May Cover Restoration Costs

In many cases, a fire restoration at a place of business can include a number of costs for both structural repairs, fire cleanup, content cleaning, document restoration, and any additional services that might be recovered. That can be a lot of services you may not have initially realized may be necessary. Commercial insurance takes these types of repairs into account and may include them under your plan.

2. Insurance May Recommend a Restoration Service

Another important aspect of fire insurance is the fact that in many cases they have preferred restoration service vendors they live to work with. These are usually certified professionals who may have a number of tools that allow them to communicate and work with your insurance provider. This means you won’t have to waste time looking for a trusted team, as your insurance agent may already have their number on file.

3. Insurance May Cover Secondary Damages

If your policy includes secondary damage coverage you may find that the cost of some unexpected repairs may be covered. Secondary damages are damages that occur as a result of the initial problem. For example, the need for a smoke cleanup, or water damage repairs could occur after a fire.

Maintaining a fire insurance policy for your business can be a good idea for a number of reasons. A fire policy may be able to cover a number of costs associated with cleanup and repairs, including the services of a restoration crew. Your insurance provider may even recommend a specific team for you to work with. Additionally, depending on your policy, secondary damages may also be covered which can help with unexpected damages.

How To Prevent Space Heater Fires at Home

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Some space heaters are safer than others

Space heaters can keep you warm during those cold winter nights in Century City, CA. Yet a burned space heater can be devastating to your home.
In fact, space heaters can cause major fire damage, especially if they are placed near flammable materials. Each year, space heaters lead to approximately 25,000 house fires and 300 deaths. However, by following the below suggestions, you can reduce the odds of a space heater destroying your house.

Safety Features

Some space heaters are safer than others. You should buy a heater that has features designed to reduce fires. These safety features include:

• A sturdy cord
  
• Proper certification from an independent tester
  
• Automatic shutoff sensors that power down the device if it tips over or overheats
  
  

Proper Usage
A burned space heater can become a larger problem if it is put next to combustible items. Avoid using the heater near bedding, matches, or gas cans. Instead, place the heater on a level, hard and nonflammable floor.
Fires can also occur if kids or pets knock the heater over while it is in use. You should thus take steps to keep animals and young children three feet away from the heater. The heater also should not be kept in a child's room.
Problems with the heater's electrical cord can be dangerous, as well. Do not use the heater if the cord appears worn or frayed. To limit overheating, avoid plugging any other electronics into the outlet used by the heater.
Finally, make sure that you turn off the space heater before you go to bed each night. You may also want to unplug it when it is not being used.
Even if you take proper precautions, you could still end up with a burned space heater in your home. If this happens to you, you and your family should get out of the house immediately. Once the fire has been extinguished, smoke cleanup experts can help you restore your property.

What Should Factor Into a Fire Damage Estimate?

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Damage to a home in Beverly Hills

An accurate estimate of the costs of cleaning and restoring damage caused by a fire is helpful when making a commercial property insurance claim. It is necessary to account for all of the following factors when calculating the total cost of fixing fire damage at a commercial building in Beverly Hills, CA.

Structural Damage

A calculation of the costs of damage caused by fire should factor in the value of a property and the estimated expense to restore or rebuild any damaged building materials or systems. This may include any of the following components:

Framing
HVAC
Plumbing
Roof
Structural beams
Siding
Walls
Windows

The cost of replacing structural components can cause the amount of an estimate to escalate. Calculations that account for the entirety of damage are essential for settling an commercial property insurance claim in a manner that will defray the cost of cleaning and restoring a building.

Content Cleaning and Replacement

A complete cost calculation should also account for the condition of the contents of a commercial structure. A fire damage mitigation and restoration service can help business and building owners make a complete list of contents that indicates whether items are candidates for restoration or require replacement.

Secondary Damage

When making estimates, experts attempt to account for hidden damage and secondary damage, both of which can drive up expenses. The location of a recent fire may have water damage from suppression that must be extracted and dried or smoke damage that necessitates surface cleaning, air filtration and deodorization.

The extent of structural damage will determine whether a commercial fire loss is partial or total. Property insurance should cover the building, contents and any damage caused by related and unavoidable sources such as smoke, soot or water.

Experienced restoration professionals can accurately estimate the cost of cleaning, rebuilding and restoring building materials and contents at a commercial property located in Beverly Hills, CA.

How To Plan for a Fire Emergency at Work

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a building in Beverly Hills, CA.

A smart business owner will have a robust fire escape plan to protect employees in the event of a fire. The plan should consider the quickest and safest routes and must include awareness and training for all employees. There are a number of items to discuss when creating the plan.

Assign Roles to Employees

Conduct Routine Safety Meetings With the Team

Become Skilled With a Fire Extinguisher

5/8/2020 (Permalink)

The proper use of a fire extinguisher has the potential to reduce the amount of worked needed for recovery.

Of all the skills an adult should have, few are more essential than learning the basics of operating a fire extinguisher. This tool can reduce the severity of a business fire in Westwood, California minimize property loss and save lives. The acronym PASS illustrates the principles of successfully using most types of extinguishers. The steps are as follows:

Pull the pin to break the tamper seal
Aim low, pointing the nozzle at the base of the fire
Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent
Sweep the nozzle from side to side until the fire is out

Of course, there are a few more things to learn, and more skill comes with experience. If possible, instruction in extinguisher techniques by a local fire department can help employees feel comfortable with the device.

Good Things To Know

Once a fire starts, always sound the fire alarm and have someone call the fire department. Pay attention to an exit strategy if the fire grows too large. Make sure the correct type of fire extinguisher is used for the type of fire, whether it is a kitchen fire or one that is burning only wood and paper. To reduce fire damage, use the extinguisher within its effective range. If the device runs out of fire repellent before the fire is out, evacuate immediately. If the fire is too large, leave the premises and make sure everyone is safely out of the building.

Smart Things To Do After a Fire

Once the building cools, the process of fire cleanup should begin with the services of a professional fire mitigation team. Trained technicians will arrive on site fast and begin with an inspection and assessment of the property. From there a plan of action will be developed to restore a property to its original condition.