If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (813) 694-9082

To have the optimal experience while using this site, you will need to update your browser. You may want to try one of the following alternatives:

Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts

Prevent a Fire in Your Dryer

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

 

It's no surprise that fire damages anything in its path. Your household dryer is no different. Many homeowners deal with dryer related fires, and the usual culprit would be a clogged dryer vent. In this particular case, the fire is preventable if you maintain your dryer throughout the year and ensure that its vent is clean and clear of buildup.

Over 15,000 calls are made to local fire departments every year for home-related fires and smoke issues. The unfortunate part is that many fires are due to clogged dryer vents within the home. Some of these fires are minimal, but others have been damaging when not caught in time.

Generally, we all know to clean out the lint traps, but did you know that excess lint passes through this filter and goes through the dryer vent? The dryer vent is located on the outside of your home, so that the hot air goes outside. This heat attracts lint built up in that area which causes fires. Fires related to clogged dryer vents can generate a lot of damage to a person's home.

The best way to prevent fires like these is to clean the lint hose. Special tools and services exist that can help unclog this particular hose.

Warning Signs Your Dryer is Clogged and May Result in a Fire

1. If it takes longer than 45 minutes to dry your clothing, it could be a sign that the dryer vent is clogged.

2. Your clothes are roasting hot to the touch after they have gone through a dry cycle.

3. The flapper on the dryer's vent may not open when the appliance is on.

Preventing a Fire with Your Dryer

1. You should clean the vent of your dryer at least twice per year.

2. Make sure to clean the lint trap inside the dryer before each cycle.

3. If you notice any of the warning signs above, make sure to contact a professional company to repair and clean the appliance.

For those homeowners who do not see the warning signs in time, fire damage is daunting. Professionals of SERVPRO can help, and they can work on your home's fire damage clean up and restoration when it is most convenient for you. Make sure to contact SERVPRO at the first sign of fire damage. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene is locally owned and operated—so we are part of the Tampa community. We are part of a national network of over 1,650 SERVPRO Franchises and special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country. We're able to respond to large-scale disasters quickly. Give us a call today.

Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher can save a life!

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

 

Fire extinguishers are staples in disaster-ready homes and provide billions of people with a quick, effective way to respond to sudden blazes. With proper training and education, fire extinguishers can save your life and your property. For hands-on training, contact your local fire station. Generally, all fire extinguishers are alike, as they follow the same usage procedure known as PASS:

  • Pull the pin to break the tamper seal.
  • Aim the nozzle at the bottom of the fire.
  • Squeeze the handle and release extinguisher chemicals.
  • Sweep the nozzle back and forth at the base of the fire until it’s extinguished.

Choosing Your Extinguisher

Not every fire extinguisher is suitable for every job. Research different types of extinguishers before deciding where to place them around your home. The National Fire Protection Association recommends keeping multipurpose fire extinguishers in your home close to an exit. Class B extinguishers should be located in the kitchen and garage, as they are effective for putting out small grease and gasoline fires. 

Emergency Services

If a fire sparks, call 911 first, then use a fire extinguisher if the situation allows. This ensures you will be able to get the assistance you need if your attempts are unsuccessful. Furthermore, know when to leave the house. The first priority is a safe escape. If the blaze becomes large or your extinguisher runs out of fumes, it’s time to get out of the house. Let firefighters and emergency responders take care of the fire. Work with SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene afterward to get your home back to normal. We specialize in fire restoration services such as smoke and soot cleanup, water removal, repairs, and more.

Being knowledgeable of fire extinguisher handling tips can save your home and your family. Discuss the above tips with every member of your family and create a fire escape plan. Call SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene at (813) 694-9082 for additional information regarding fire damage cleanup.

Career Opportunities at SERVPRO

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

Career Opportunities at SERVPRO

With 19 franchises in 6 locations throughout TN, FL, and TX, SERVPRO Team Nicholson is an exciting, diverse, innovative place to work. We foster positive company culture, offer competitive compensation packages, and prioritize community involvement. Come find out what it takes to be a part of our team! 

Our Mission

Our mission is to be a proud, laser-focused team holding each other accountable while creating positive opportunities for our people and becoming the most efficiently run organization in the markets we serve.

We value honesty, reliability, relationships, trustworthiness, and authenticity! Our team develops and provides solutions; we are go-getters and carry a “bring it” attitude to our work environment. We listen and value each other’s thoughts and ideas and strive to bring them to life.

We are built on hard work, transparency, good business, and integrity. We believe, “You can’t go wrong doing the right thing.” 

Bill Repsel, our Regional Administrator, shared his testimony on what it's like working for SERVPRO. He said, "Every day is a new day. It is an opportunity to serve others in our community in a time of need. We have an incredible team of people with great talent that strives to make a difference every day." 

SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene is proud of the work we do and is always looking for like-minded people interested in a rewarding career.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume to recruiting@SERVPROclarksville.com, stop by our office from 8:00 am-5:00 pm Monday-Friday, or click here to check out our current job openings.

State of The Art Equipment

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

State of The Art Equipment

The past few decades have seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow us to restore a property to pre loss condition quickly and more effectively.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. The IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide is a specific set of practical standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively.

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, can help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.

  • An infrared camera may be used to identify water locations for thorough water removal.
  • Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

Powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

  • Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water. 
  • Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.

Drying Equipment

Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from the ceiling, walls, and floors of your home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

  • High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
  • Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.

Have Water or Flood Damage?

Call Us Today!

What Is The IIRC? What Does It Mean For Me?

7/31/2022 (Permalink)

What Is An IICRC Certification? Why Does It Matter?

The IICRC is the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification, a non-profit organization for the Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Industries. 

When considering who to call for water damage, do you go with the company your insurance company recommends? How about your neighbor’s recommendation? In the internet age of information-overload and bias, how can you know what’s right? Who really does the best job? Who does the most work for the money? Who handles a water loss job from start to finish? SERVPRO is proud to be your one-stop-shop for disaster relief after a fire, flood, or storm—but don’t take our word for it—let us show you.

Your local SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene is proudly an IICRC accredited firm.

What is an IICRC Certification?

IICRC Certified Firms have earned the right to display the IICRC logo as a symbol of quality. In order to achieve IICRC-certified status, firms must meet a rigorous list of standards in business ethics and expertise.

All IICRC Certified Firms must:  

  • Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
  • Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.  
  • Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. 
  • Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
  • Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.  

When it comes to cleaning, restoration and inspection, the IICRC writes the books. As an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Standards Developing Organization (SDO), the IICRC has paved the way in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, upholstery and fabric cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation.  

Each IICRC standard takes years to develop and the coordination of several experts in the field, including:

  1. allied trades persons
  2. manufacturers
  3. international, national and regional trade associations
  4. individual or franchise professionals
  5. cleaning, inspection and restoration industry organizations
  6. insurance industry
  7. training schools
  8. contractors and public health professionals

These standards are reviewed and updated at least every five years. Many of these fields, such as the water damage restoration field, change rapidly and those who are certified keep up with the advancement of the science and generally accepted practices of the industry.

We don’t take this stamp of approval lightly—we uphold it. If your home or business suffered water, storm, or fire damage, call us for 24 hours emergency service or for a free estimate.

BBQ Fire Safety

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Follow These Tips to Avoid a Barbecue Fire

The arrival of nice weather calls for grilling out with friends and family. Unfortunately, a grill fire is a real safety hazard, and in the right circumstances, a fun get-together can turn into a disaster in a hurry. You can avoid a barbecue fire by following these tips:

  1. Keep the Grill in a Safe Location 

Keep the grill outside on a level surface at least 10 feet from buildings and other flammable objects. Never grill under an overhang or in an enclosed area. Be sure to monitor it closely until it cools.

  1. Keep Children and Pets at a Distance

Children and pets should stay at least three feet away from the grill. Ensure that pets on tie-downs cannot reach the grill; they can wrap their line around the grill and pull it over. It will keep them at a safe distance if a grill fire occurs. 

  1. Be Mindful of Loose Clothing

Make sure that you wear appropriate attire when you grill. You can tie back everything with an apron. Use long tongs and spatulas for added safety and wear heat-resistant grill gloves.

  1. Use a Chimney Starter

A chimney starter is a much safer option than lighter fluid. It will also light the coals more evenly. 

  1. Practice the Two-Zone Method

This simple, versatile method creates a much safer grilling experience. Put the hot charcoal on one side of the grill and leave the other side empty. If a flare-up occurs, move the food to the other side until the flame subsides, then move it back to continue cooking. The two-zone method can improve your food quality because it creates a searing side and another side for flame-free slow cooking.

Keep a fire extinguisher near. Do NOT use water; it can make a grease fire flare up. Instead, close the grill lid until the outbreak subsides. If your house sustains fire damage or smoke damage from a grill fire, SERVPRO of North Tampa/Magdalene can return it to its original state.

Next Steps After a Fire at Your Business

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Does Your Business Have a Fire Plan? 

Commercial fire damage repair is something you never think you'll need for your business, but the unfortunate reality is some companies will experience fire damage. Fires can occur by an electrical shortage from overloading an extension cord to a lightning strike. As the flames extinguish, you may begin to worry about what steps to take to resume business. The best advice is to have a plan.

How SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene Restores Businesses after Fire

When you experience commercial fire damage, you may reflect on the mess left in the charred ruins of the property. However, the damage you need to contend with will go beyond the ashes. To repair the property, seek the help of a professional team like SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene. Water extraction will occur after the firefighters' efforts. The smoke damage may cause a problem that the burnt materials from the fire. While a fire may be contained in one area of the building, smoke can fill most of the areas, and it can cause significant damage and odors. Our trained Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technicians (FSRT) can resolve these issues. When smoke and water damage are dealt with appropriately, the structure will not show any aftereffects. "Like it never even happened."

A fire loss within your enterprise, whether a retail store, rental apartment building, professional office or a warehouse, can cost you customer goodwill and loss of profitability. We can generate a corporate program called the Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS). This report will categorize all affected materials, furniture and equipment, stock, electronics, and documents. SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene will suggest what's salvageable, non-salvageable, or questionable. The final decision rests with you and your insurance company as to how we proceed. SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene is a preferred commercial fire damage restoration company to more than 300 insurance companies, federal and municipal entities, and property management companies. We willingly coordinate efforts with your insurance adjuster to efficiently and economically restore your business in the best manner possible.

When and Who to Call for Fire Restoration 

After dealing with a commercial fire, you may ask yourself when you need to make the call to a professional for assistance. Contact SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene as soon as the fire is out. Our business is to get you back in business! Rely on us 24/7 for an immediate response. Call us anytime at (813) 649-9082.

How Does SERVPRO Handle Fire Restoration?

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects the structure of your house and your belongings. SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene understands your family's furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings make your house more than a structure; they make it home. Check some of SERVPRO's fire restoration services below:

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Our expertise and "restore" versus "replace" mentality can save you money while preserving irreplaceable keepsakes. We pre-test your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition. Several methods of cleaning your contents include:

Dry Cleaning: Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean deeper damage.

Wet Cleaning: To remove moderate or heavy residues.

Spray and Wipe: Used for items that can't withstand wet cleaning.

Foam Cleaning: Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.

Abrasive Cleaning: Involves agitation to the surface.

Immersion Cleaning: Contents dip into a bath of the cleaning product.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs 

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene can conduct an organized, efficient move-out for you.

We safely wrap and pack up items to remove them from the property for safe storage. Move-outs are beneficial for quicker remodeling processes because they clear the area for workers but also protect contents from on-site damage and dirt. When restoration is complete, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs.

Electronic Cleanup 

Fire-damaged electronics can present a severe hazard. Don't attempt to turn on or operate any damaged electrical devices. Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces that cause electronic failure in the device. We will coordinate your electronics' restoration, including TV sets, DVD players, computers, etc. The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent damage. 

For additional information regarding our fire damage restoration process, call SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene at (813) 694-9082.

3 Areas of Concern for Business Fire Hazards

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

The unfortunate reality is that no business is immune to the risk of fire. Even moderate damage can result in your facility closing for repairs for weeks on end, which can be devastating. Some facilities are more prone to damage from a fire, such as a restaurant that uses open flames throughout the day. However, many fire hazards are present in workplaces regardless of activities that take place in the building. When you know what these hazards are, you can take steps to address and mitigate unsafe conditions and prevent possible fire damage and smoke damage.

3 Areas of Concern 

  1. Electrical Concerns

Faulty electrical wiring can result in sparks that lead to damaging fires. Electrical wiring impairment may include frayed cords, such as those connecting desktop computers to the wall power outlets. For example, desktop computers that are connected to power outlets can damage wiring inside the walls, potentially causing a spark. Additionally, electrical fires may start when power sockets overload or when equipment gets too hot. Periodically review your company's wiring to identify areas of concern that need to be addressed.

  1. Poor Equipment Maintenance

Keep a maintenance schedule to provide regular service to business-related equipment. For example, failing to service your furnace may result in dust accumulation and other flammable debris. Furthermore, a gas leak in the furnace could result in a fire or an explosion. Fire hazards related to poor maintenance may include dusty, dirty, or greasy components, such as air ducts, kitchen exhaust vents, and many other features used throughout your facility. Scheduling necessary maintenance can decrease fire risk in these areas.

  1. Flammable or Combustible Materials

Flammable and combustible materials are most commonly associated with industrial and warehouse environments, but restaurants, hotels, dry cleaners, and many other types of businesses may store combustible materials onsite. These materials should remain sealed according to the manufacturer's recommendations. 

If your business has already experienced fire damage repairs are needed as soon as possible. SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene is your trusted source for quality repair services. Although we hope your business does not experience a fire emergency, we do hope you keep us in mind for fire emergencies. We can quickly restore your building to its previous condition so that you can resume operations as soon as possible. We are available 24/7 and can respond immediately. Call us at (813) 694-9082.

Inspecting Your Home for Damages After a Fire

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

A house fire is life-altering and leaves homeowners feeling heartbroken and directionless. Knowing where to begin and who can help is important. SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene is here to assist our Tampa, FL community mitigate damage after a house fire. We are available 24/7 and specialize in smoke and soot removal, water removal, cleaning, repairs, and restoration. Do not face fire damage on your own, contact us at (813) 694-9082. 

Reacting to the fire damage in your Tampa home can seem impossible. When the extinguishing process is completed, you can begin restoration. However, DIY fire cleanup methods are not the most effective way to rehabilitate your home. Conventional cleaning efforts and general deodorization pale in comparison to professional restoration services. Fortunately, this isn't a battle that you have to fight alone. SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene handles fire restoration, from soot clean-up to deodorization. 

Our estimator and project manager work to identify the full scope of the damage at your home. We survey every area, whether connected to the fire in your home or not. This thorough inspection records the damage for insurance, and our SERVPRO professionals have the commercial-grade equipment and strategies to contend with the damage. We'll deliver the assessment of your damages to the insurance company that covers your home, which will help process your claim efficiently. Whether the damage in your home was widespread or not, this process remains the same. Our professionals take great care in assessing the scope of the damage that your home faces so that no stone is left unturned in the restoration process. 

You can trust our SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene fire restoration specialists to work quickly to make your home “Like it never even happened,” giving you peace of mind and a sense of normalcy. We’re available for you 24/7, 7 days a week at (813) 694-9082.



SERVPRO Can Clean Your Carpets & Upholstery

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

The highest-quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling after a fire, but that does not always mean they are beyond repair. Save your carpets by calling us to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery. SERVPRO System offers several cleaning options to match any upholstery or carpet.

SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene offers a range of specialized cleaning methods:

Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short piled carpets.

Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.

Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore soiled areas. 

Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry. 

Dry Cleaning: When color-fastness is an issue. 

SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene may be able to save your rugs and carpet after a fire. Call us today at (813) 694-9082!

Fire Extinguisher Ready

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers are staples in disaster-ready homes and provide billions of people with a quick, effective way to respond to sudden blazes. With proper training and education, fire extinguishers can save your life and your property. For hands-on training, contact your local fire station. Generally, all fire extinguishers are alike, as they follow the same usage procedure known as PASS:

  • Pull the pin to break the tamper seal.
  • Aim the nozzle at the bottom of the fire.
  • Squeeze the handle and release extinguisher chemicals.
  • Sweep the nozzle back and forth at the base of the fire until it’s extinguished.

Choosing Your Extinguisher

Not every fire extinguisher is suitable for every job. Research different types of extinguishers before deciding where to place them around your home. The National Fire Protection Association recommends keeping multipurpose fire extinguishers in your home close to an exit. Class B extinguishers should be located in the kitchen and garage, as they are effective for putting out small grease and gasoline fires. 

Emergency Services

If a fire sparks, call 911 first, then use a fire extinguisher if the situation allows. This ensures you will be able to get the assistance you need if your attempts are unsuccessful. Furthermore, know when to leave the house. The first priority is a safe escape. If the blaze becomes large or your extinguisher runs out of fumes, it’s time to get out of the house. Let firefighters and emergency responders take care of the fire. Work with SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene afterward to get your home back to normal. We specialize in fire restoration services such as smoke and soot cleanup, water removal, repairs, and more.

Being knowledgeable of fire extinguisher handling tips can save your home and your family. Discuss the above tips with every member of your family and create a fire escape plan. Call SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene at (813) 694-9082 for additional information regarding fire damage cleanup.

Prevent a Fire in Your Dryer

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

It's no surprise that fire damages anything in its path. Your household dryer is no different. Many homeowners deal with dryer related fires, and the usual culprit would be a clogged dryer vent. In this particular case, the fire is preventable if you maintain your dryer throughout the year and ensure that its vent is clean and clear of buildup.

Over 15,000 calls are made to local fire departments every year for home-related fires and smoke issues. The unfortunate part is that many fires are due to clogged dryer vents within the home. Some of these fires are minimal, but others have been damaging when not caught in time.

Generally, we all know to clean out the lint traps, but did you know that excess lint passes through this filter and goes through the dryer vent? The dryer vent is located on the outside of your home, so that the hot air goes outside. This heat attracts lint built up in that area which causes fires. Fires related to clogged dryer vents can generate a lot of damage to a person's home.

The best way to prevent fires like these is to clean the lint hose. Special tools and services exist that can help unclog this particular hose.

Warning Signs Your Dryer is Clogged and May Result in a Fire

1. If it takes longer than 45 minutes to dry your clothing, it could be a sign that the dryer vent is clogged.

2. Your clothes are roasting hot to the touch after they have gone through a dry cycle.

3. The flapper on the dryer's vent may not open when the appliance is on.

Preventing a Fire with Your Dryer

1. You should clean the vent of your dryer at least twice per year.

2. Make sure to clean the lint trap inside the dryer before each cycle.

3. If you notice any of the warning signs above, make sure to contact a professional company to repair and clean the appliance.

For those homeowners who do not see the warning signs in time, fire damage is daunting. Professionals of SERVPRO can help, and they can work on your home's fire damage clean up and restoration when it is most convenient for you. Make sure to contact SERVPRO at the first sign of fire damage

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene is locally owned and operated—so we are part of the Tampa community. We are part of a national network of over 1,650 SERVPRO Franchises and special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country. We're able to respond to large-scale disasters quickly. Give us a call today.