Recent Fire Damage Posts

Clearing The Air

8/1/2023 (Permalink)

Smoke odor can be one of the most persistent and unpleasant reminders of a fire incident or other smoking-related activities. Lingering smoke odors can permeate walls, furniture, carpets, and even personal belongings, making it challenging to feel comfortable and at ease in your home or business.

  1. Air Out the Area: The first step in smoke odor elimination is to ventilate the affected area thoroughly. Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate and carry away the smoke particles. Use fans to speed up the process and ensure proper ventilation.
  2. Clean Surfaces and Belongings: Smoke particles can settle on various surfaces and belongings, leaving behind odorous residues. Clean walls, ceilings, floors, and furniture using a mixture of water and vinegar or a mild detergent. Consider using a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner to capture and remove smoke particles from carpets and upholstery.
  3. Baking Soda: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and can help absorb and neutralize smoke odors. Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, furniture, and other affected areas, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum thoroughly.
  4. Charcoal or Coffee Grounds: Charcoal and coffee grounds are also excellent natural odor absorbers. Place bowls of activated charcoal or coffee grounds in the affected area and let them absorb the smoke odors over time.
  5. Vinegar Solution: A vinegar solution can be effective in neutralizing smoke odors. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and mist the affected areas. The vinegar smell will dissipate, taking the smoke odor with it.
  6. Professional Smoke Odor Removal Services: For severe or stubborn smoke odors, it's best to seek professional smoke odor removal services like SERVPRO. Trained technicians use specialized equipment and techniques to target and eliminate smoke odors effectively.
  7. Repainting: In some cases, smoke odors may have penetrated into the paint on walls and ceilings. Repainting the affected areas with odor-sealing primers and fresh paint can help seal in the odors.
  8. Prevention: The best way to eliminate smoke odors is to prevent them in the first place. Ensure that smoking is limited to designated areas away from living or working spaces, and consider investing in air purifiers or air filtration systems to maintain clean and fresh indoor air.

Outdoor Fire Pit Safety

7/21/2023 (Permalink)

These cooler evenings seem to be starting sooner and lasting longer here in the Columbus area. While they provide a cozy and inviting setting, they can also be dangerous. As with any open flame, safety should always be the top priority. Let’s explore essential tips and precautions to ensure you can enjoy your outdoor fire pit safely.

  • Location and Placement: Choosing the right location for your fire pit is crucial. Ensure it's placed on a non-flammable surface and keep it at a safe distance from any flammable materials. Clear an area around the fire pit to prevent accidental sparks from igniting nearby objects.
  • Keep a Fire Extinguisher and Water Source Nearby: Always have a fire extinguisher and a bucket of water or a hose nearby. These tools can be essential in quickly extinguishing small flames or sparks that may escape the fire pit. You can pick up a fire extinguisher from Home Depot, Kroger’s, Meijer or other local grocery stores near you.
  • Mind the Wind: Be mindful of wind direction when using the fire pit. Wind can blow sparks and embers, potentially causing fires elsewhere in your yard. It is vital in the Downtown areas including Grandview, Franklinton, and German Village that there is No burning when an air pollution alert, warning, or emergency is in effect. Its also important for areas like Blacklick, Pickerington, or other rural areas that the smoke doesn’t obscure visibility on roadways.
  • Properly Extinguish the Fire: Before leaving the fire pit unattended or going to bed, ensure the fire is entirely extinguished. Use water or sand to douse the flames and stir the ashes to cool them down.
  • Be Mindful of Fire Regulations: Check with your local authorities for any specific fire regulations or bans in your area. During dry seasons or high-risk fire periods, there may be restrictions on open fires. Some local regulations in Bexley include keeping the fire pit at least 15 feet from a structure. In other areas like Westerville, Worthington, and Dublin it’s a law to keep fires more than 1,000 feet from neighbors.

An outdoor fire pit can be a source of warmth, comfort, and joy for your home. By following these safety tips and using common sense, you can enjoy your fire pit with peace of mind. Remember, safety should always be the priority.

Electrical Fire Safety

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

Overloaded Electrical Circuit Safety Tips

Electrical circuits can become dangerous when overloaded.  Though it may be easy to simply plug in another power strip or extension cord when adding equipment, the wiring in some buildings often isn't capable of supporting too many high powered electronics.  Older office buildings and homes, in particular, often suffer from lack of electrical outlets.

Overloaded electrical circuits are a major cause of residential fires. Help lower your risk of electrical fires by learning the warning signs and not overloading your electrical system.

Overloaded circuit warning signs:

  • Flickering, blinking, or dimming lights
  • Frequently tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses
  • Warm or discolored wall plates
  • Cracking, sizzling, or buzzing from receptacles
  • Burning odor coming from receptacles or wall switches
  • Mild shock or tingle from appliances, receptacles, or switches

How to prevent electrical overloads:

  • Never use extension cords or multi-outlet converters for appliances
  • All major appliances should be plugged directly into a wall receptacle outlet. Only plug one heat producing appliance into a receptacle outlet at a time
  • A heavy reliance on extension cords is an indication that you have too few outlets to address your needs. Have a qualified electrician inspect your home and add new outlets
  • Power strips only add additional outlets; they do not change the amount of power being received from the outlet

If fire damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of South Columbus at 614-863-1392. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Stages of a Fire

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

fire damaged hallway in house Call SERVPRO of South Columbus at 614-863-1392 if you experience an unexpected fire

A fire in your home or business never something you expect to experience. Which is why it is important to know the 4 stages of a fire to keep you safe.

Incipient: This first stage begins when heat, oxygen and a fuel source combine, having a chemical reaction resulting in a fire. It is also known as “ignition”. There is usually a small fire, which often goes out on its own, before the following stages are reached. During this stage, recognizing a fire so early is your best chance at suppression or escape.

Growth: This stage is where the structure’s fire load and oxygen are used as fuel for the fire. During the growth stage, there are multiple factors that affect the fire including where the fire started, what combustibles are nearby, ceiling height and the potential for “thermal layering”. This is stage is when a deadly “flashover” can occur’ potentially trapping, injuring, or killing firefighters.

Fully Developed: When the growth stage has reached its maximum and all nearby combustible materials have been ignited, the fire is considered fully developed. This is the hottest stage of a fire and the most dangerous for anyone trapped within.

Decay: The decay stage is the longest stage of a fire; it is characterized by a significant decrease in oxygen or fuel, putting an end to the fire. There are two common dangers during this stage. First, the existence of non-flaming combustibles that can potentially start a new fire if they are not fully extinguished. Second, there is a danger of a backdraft when oxygen is reintroduced to a volatile, confined space.

Fire Damage Services In Southern Columbus

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

windows on home boarded up after fire SERVPRO of South Columbus boarded the windows on this home after a fire.

Along with providing structural cleaning, contents cleaning, and deodorization services after a residential or commercial fire, SERVPRO of South Columbus also offers additional specialized services to our customers:

Board-Up

One of the top priorities after a fire loss is to secure your property and belongings until work can begin. SERVPRO of South Columbus offers board-up services for windows, doors, and other exposed structural areas to prevent intrusion by both water and unauthorized persons.

Inventory, Pack-Out and Storage

As the clean up and restoration process begins, our SERVPRO of South Columbus technicians take inventory of the contents in your home or business. As the contents are sorted, they will be categorized as salvageable, and processed to be cleaned, or unsalvageable, and documented as such for insurance purposes. Our professional SERVPRO Team can pack-out and store any unaffected materials as needed as well. Our SERVPRO Professionals are trained to properly inventory, move out and control the contents from the structure during the cleaning, restoration, and deodorization process.

Document Drying and Restoration

The SERVPRO Document Restoration Team offers a range of services to restore your damaged documents, including drying, cleaning/disinfecting, re-jacketing, digitizing, and deodorization. Depending on your specific needs, and utilizing industry leading techniques and state-of-the-art technology, SERVPRO’s restoration professionals will help you recover paper goods, no matter the size of the loss.

SERVPRO of South Columbus is Here to Help with all your fire damage needs. Our professional team will help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Your Christmas Tree Could Cause A Fire!

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

christmas tree on fire U.S. firefighters respond to roughly 200 Christmas tree fires per year.

Don’t let a house fire disrupt your holidays. The most common sources of winter holiday fires are live Christmas trees and holiday decorations that are too close to a heat source, candles, and cooking fires. Although these fires are rare, they do occur, and they can be destructive and deadly.  The following are a few tips to help make your Holidays safe from fire.

When purchasing a live Christmas tree, safety starts before you even head to the tree lot.  If you live in a condo or apartment, there is likely a restriction against live Christmas trees.  Be sure to check with your HOA or management company for any rules or restrictions before choosing a tree. At the tree lot, look for a fresh, green tree!

Checking Your Tree

  • Bend the needles.  If they break, the tree has probably already dried out.
  • Grip a branch and slide your fist down it.  Most of the needles should stay on the tree.
  • Check the trunk, especially at the bottom where it’s cut.  It should be covered in sap and sticky to the touch.
  • Shake the tree.  If green needles fall everywhere, it’s too dry.

Before bringing the tree inside, shake it to dislodge loose needles or other debris.  Prior to placing it in the tree holder, make a fresh cut off the bottom of the trunk.  A freshly cut trunk will absorb water more effectively.  Use a tree holder that’s wide and strong enough to keep the tree stable.  

It is also very important to take care of your tree once it is inside. Fill the holder with water as soon as you set your tree up. Then, check it every day.  It needs to stay full!

Happy Holidays from our SERVPRO family to yours!

Reducing Your Risk Of a House Fire

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

fire damaged kitchen If you experience a house fire, call our SERVPRO of South Columbus fire restoration experts.

Your home is your sanctuary. A place where your family spends time together and makes memories. That’s why it is so scary imagining your home getting damaged by an unfortunate fire. Although you can’t control everything that happens in your home, there are some necessary tips you can follow to prevent a possible house fire. Follow these tips below.

  1. Regularly test your smoke alarms. Test your smoke alarms by pressing the button located on the smoke alarm, if it produces a weak beeping noise, it is time to replace the batteries.
  1. Check your heating sources. Heating sources that aren’t working properly could potentially trigger a fire. Have them checked annually.
  1. Maintain a clean oven and stove. Food particles left behind can get to hot on the burner or in the oven causing a potential fire. Make sure nothing is left too close to the stove that could catch fire.
  1. Never leave your kitchen. Don’t leave your kitchen while cooking. It only takes a few seconds for a fire to break out. If you have to step out of the room, turn the burners off.
  1. Check your dryer. Make sure to clean out your lint trap after every load of laundry. The build up of lint can cause a fire. Have your dryer inspected by a professional yearly.
  1. Inspect your cords. Before plugging something in, inspect the cord to make sure it is not frayed or been chewed. Replace the cords as soon as possible if you notice that the wires have been damaged. Avoid running cords under a rug or between the wall and your furniture, it can get too hot causing a fire.
  1. Store flammable products properly. Store common household cleaners and cosmetic items in a cool area. If they are exposed to high heat, they can combust.
  1. Use caution with candles. Put candles out before you leave the room or go to sleep and make sure to keep them far away from blankets or any other objects that could catch fire. Place candles on an even surface to prevent them from being knocked over. Also keep them away from pets.
  1. Use caution with your fireplace. Make sure there is a door between the flames and your flooring, you don’t want any sparks to escape. Allow enough time for the ashes to cool down before throwing them away.
  1. Always have a fire extinguisher handy. When a fire breaks out, your best line of defense is a fire extinguisher. Make sure every family member knows how to use it properly in case of a fire.

Soot Webs Not Spider Webs

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

soot webs after a fire Here is an example of soot tags. You can see how closely they resemble spider webs.

As fire damage specialists, we see a lot of fire damaged residential homes and commercial properties. The damage can either be extensive or very minimal. One of the most common visible instances of fire damage are soot webs, the technical term for them are "Soot Tags". They look exactly like spider webs. Rest assured, you did not have magical "fire spiders" that created these cobwebs in your home.

Soot Tags form in areas of low circulation when petroleum/synthetic based sources burn. During a fire the heat of the fire moves into colder areas since the air seeks to create equilibrium. The soot then rides in the air with the heat particles that follow the air into those colder areas with low circulation and are able to concentrate. Since that soot is a product of combustion the particles themselves are charged which makes it quite easy for them to create long chains of soot or soot tags. So while it looks like a lot of soot got stuck on pre-existing spider webs it is actually a whole new structure. 

If you notice that you have soot tags in your home or business after a recent fire, do not try to clean it up yourself. Any time you try to clean soot without the proper chemicals, tools and experience, you’ll likely cause further damage in your home. That's why our SERVPRO of South Columbus Team is here to help, we are the fire damage restoration specialists at your service 24-7!

Preventing Kitchen Fires

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

burned kitchen Getting the right information, customers can prevent kitchen fires in their own homes, keeping their families and homes safe.

Did you know that cooking fires are one of the main causes of home fires! Even though you can’t prevent every source of a kitchen fire, you can minimize fire risks with knowing the right information. Follow these fire prevention tips to reduce your chances of a kitchen fire and keep you and your kitchen safe.

  1. Make sure your appliances are always serviced, clean, and in good repair. Wipe down the microwave. Clean the oven. Dump and clean the crumb tray in toasters and toaster ovens. Unplug appliances that start acting strange, and then have them repaired or replaced.
  1. Unplug any electric appliances that are not in use. Toasters, blenders, coffee makers, and any other appliances continue to draw electricity to them, even if they are not turned on. If the wiring is old or faulty, a fire could break out.
  1. Install a smoke detector near the kitchen. A small amount of smoke will constantly trigger the alarm if the smoke detector is directly in the kitchen. Installing the smoke detector near the kitchen will pick up the heavy smoke when needed.
  1. Use caution when lighting a burner on a gas stove. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions.
  1. Don’t put metal in the microwave. Metal can cause sparks that could then turn into a fire or do heavy damage to your microwave.
  1. Don’t overfill pots and pans with oil or grease. Hot oil or grease can splatter causing a fire.
  1. Wipe up any spills and never cook on a dirty stove. Grease buildup is very flammable. Having a clean stove is a fire free stove.
  1. Roll up your sleeves and tie back your hair when cooking. Baggy clothing and long hair can easily get in the way while cooking, causing you to get hurt.
  1. Don’t take your eye off of cooking food. Always stay in the kitchen when you are cooking, especially if you are cooking grease or if the oven is at a very high temperature. If you need to leave the house, make sure to turn off the oven and any burners you had on.
  1. Keep all dishtowels, potholders, and paper towels away from the stove. If you leave a burner on, the built up heat can ignite combustible near the stove area.

If you experience unexpected fire damage in your home, call SERVPRO of South Columbus at (614) 863-1392.

Cleaning Your Personal Belongings After A Fire

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

soot covered furniture After a recent fire, soot covered every surface in this home. Our SERVPRO Team cleaned each item by hand, restoring all of the belongings.

If having a fire happen in your home isn't detrimental enough, there is still the aftermath of cleanup that has to be addressed. Fires not only affect the home but also all of the items inside your home. Here at SERVPRO of South Columbus, we understand this process can be difficult and we are dedicated to making it go as smooth and painless as possible. 

With fire comes soot and ash which in turn may engulf some or all of your personal belongings including sentimental items. We always go into each job with the mindset that we would rather restore than have you replace your beloved belongings. We have many different cleaning methods that we use to restore your most valuable of items. These methods include...

  • Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
  • Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
  • Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that withstand wet cleaning.
  • Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
  • Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
  • Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

When special care is needed our SERVPRO Team will be there.

What To Expect After A Fire

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

fire damaged home Our SERVPRO Team can help you after a fire!

A fire damage event is difficult for the home or business owner on many levels, and the restoration process that follows can be intimidating. Each fire event is a little different, and each will require a unique solution, although the overall general process stays the same. The steps we are listing below will illustrate the SERVPRO process for the average fire damage emergency.

  • Emergency Contact. Your restoration process begins the moment that you contact us. Our representative will ask you questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us to respond with the appropriate equipment and resources for your particular situation.
  • Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment. Our team will carefully inspect and test all the adjoining rooms of your home or business to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is vital to us, allowing us to develop the perfect plan of action for your property.
  • Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service. Fire damage will often compromise the condition of windows, walls, and roofing. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we will board up missing windows and walls, and place tarps on damaged areas of the roof.
  • Water Removal and Drying. If water damage is present, the water removal process will begin almost immediately, with the goal of removing the majority of the water. Our team will then employ dehumidifiers and air movers to remove any remaining water and complete the drying process.
  • Removal of Smoke and Soot From All Surfaces. SERVPRO uses specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and all other surfaces.
  • Cleaning and Sanitizing. We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. Our team uses a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to the condition they were in before the fire. We are also trained to remove lingering odors, using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
  • Restoration. This is the final step - getting your home or business back to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, installing new carpet, or painting surfaces, or it may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various rooms or areas.

Here at SERVPRO of South Columbus, we are here to help if your Columbus home or business suffers from damage due to a fire. 

Candle Safety

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

fake candle on black surface Candles can be dangerous, consider the alternatives!

We all love candles. They are pretty to look at and get your home smelling wonderful. But unfortunately we need to remember that a candle is an open flame and can easily catch its surroundings on fire causing your beloved home to go up in flames.

First, lets take a look at the candle fire facts from the National Fire Protection Association to see just how common a candle fire is.

  • There are 21 candle fires reported per day on average.
  • Candles cause 2% of reported home fires, 3% of home deaths, 6% of home fire injuries, and 4% of the direct property damage in house fires.
  • 37% of home candle fires start in the bedroom.
  • 11% of the candle fires were a result of falling asleep while a candle was still burning.
  • 60% of candle fires occurred when a flammable item was too close to the candle.

Fortunately, there are many great candle alternatives that make your home smell great or create a relaxing ambiance.

1. Battery-Powered Candles

While electric candles may not look or smell exactly like the real thing, they are a safe alternative to get the same ambiance. Plus, you don't need to worry about remembering to turn them off when you leave the room or house. You won't come home to an unexpected fire disaster.

2. Wax Warmers

These help spread the fantastic smell of melted wax through your home by using a wax warmer. These candle alternatives use battery power or electricity instead of an open flame to heat up the wax.

3. Fairy Lights

If your main goal is to add relaxed lighting to your home rather than release a scent into the air, fairy lights a great way to quickly light up a room or outdoor area. Fairy lights may be powered by battery or electricity, making them a much longer-lasting option than a candle.

4. Essential Oil Diffusers

Essential oils can help add a scent to the room and might benefit your health too. There are many different diffusers to choose from, so you can easily find one that matches your home.

Fireplace Safety Tips

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

wood burning in a fireplace Call SERVPRO of South Columbus if you experience a fire in your home.

As the weather starts to get colder outside, you and your family often look for ways to stay warm inside, such as gathering around the fireplace. Unfortunately, fireplaces can be dangerous. Follow these tips to keep your family and home safe.

  1. Keep a nearby window cracked open while the fire is burning, if possible.
  1. Make sure the damper or flue is open before starting a fire. This allows the smoke to be drawn out of the house. You can check the damper by looking up the chimney with a flashlight. Do not close the damper until the embers have stopped burning completely.
  1. In the fire, use dry and well-aged wood. Wet wood produces more smoke and contributes to soot buildup in the chimney. When the wood is dry it burns more evenly and produces less smoke.
  1. Before starting a fire, clean out the ashes from any previous fires. The level of ash at the base of the fireplace should be 1 inch or less. Thicker layers of ash restrict the air supply to the logs, resulting in more smoke.
  1. The chimney should be checked by a professional annually.
  1. Even if your chimney is not due for cleaning, it is important to check for any blockages that could prevent smoke escaping.
  1. Clear the area around the fireplace of anything that is potentially flammable. If these items get too close to the fireplace, they could catch fire.
  1. If you have a switch on the wall that turns on your fireplace, consider covering the switch to prevent children from turning the gas or fireplace on.
  1. Never leave an active fire in the fireplace unattended. Before going to bed or leaving the house, make sure the fire is completely out. Never leave children unattended around a fire.
  1. Place fireplace tools and accessories out of reach of children.
  1. Always have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors located throughout your home. Test them monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.
  1. Always keep a fire extinguisher on hand.

Our SERVPRO Team Is Here To Help After A Fire

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

building with smoke coming out the top Call our SERVPRO Team today!

Our SERVPRO Team knows that even the smallest of fires can create large amounts of smoke damage, and that damage isn’t just confined to the area of the fire. SERVPRO of South Columbus understands that when your business or commercial property has been affected by a fire, you need help fast. When you call our SERVPRO Team, our highly trained professionals will be on site quickly to assess the damage and begin the process of getting your building up and running.

As small business owners, we understand that every hour you spend cleaning up after a fire means lost revenue and productivity. Our goal is to clean and restore your structure and contents quickly and efficiently so you can get back to doing what your business and building does best. 

If your business or commercial property has been impacted by fire or smoke damage, call SERVPRO of South Columbus anytime, day or night at 614-863-1392. We are here to help you 24-7. Our SERVPRO Team makes your building "Like it never even happened."

Fire Pit Safety Tips

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

fire in fire pit outside If you experience an unexpected fire caused by a fire pit, call our SERVPRO Team!

Here in Southern Columbus it's common for homeowners to gather around a fire pit and enjoy the company of family and friends. Before you jump right into endless nights of enjoying your fire pit, be sure to keep these safety tips in mind provided by Nationwide Insurance.

Preparing your outdoor fire pit

  • Make sure the ground or surface is even to reduce the risk of fire escaping beyond your fire pit.
  • To keep your fire from causing damage, build the fire pit at least 10 feet from your home, fences, trees and the like.
  • Smooth stones from river beds may have absorbed moisture over time and can heat rapidly and explode. Instead of river stones, build your fire pit with dry, rough stones.

Using your outdoor fire pit

  • Avoid using your fire pit on windy days, since flames or embers can spread to your home, yard and nearby trees.
  • Never use gasoline or kerosene to start your fire; such fuels can cause a fire to get out of control quickly. Instead, use dry wood as kindling that doesn’t extend beyond the edge of the pit.
  • Even if your fire pit is small, flames can spread quickly if left unattended. Monitor at all times.
  • Make sure guests maintain a proper distance and don’t exhibit risky behavior. Keep close tabs on children and pets.

Extinguishing your outdoor fire pit

  • Once you extinguish your fire with water, gently stir and spread the ashes to cool. Leave only when they’re cool to the touch.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose or bucket of sand close to douse the fire in case it gets out of hand. If you can’t put it out quickly, call 9-1-1.

These fire pit safety tips can help prevent unmanageable fires, injuries and more. If disaster does strike, SERVPRO of South Columbus is here to help!

You Had A Fire, Now What?

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

fire damaged walls This fire was caused by a cooking accident.

Imagine this, you are cooking a delicious dinner for your family, you walk out of the kitchen to attend to other household duties and all of a sudden you start smelling smoke. Oh no! Your kitchen is on fire, going up in flames. You call your nearest fire department immediately, they put out the fire and there you are left with the aftermath. What a mess! You think, "What am I going to do? Who do I call?"

The answer to that question is SERVPRO! Not only do we just handle water disasters, we take care of fire disasters as well. Having a fire in your beloved home is always scary and very stressful. Here at SERVPRO of South Columbus, we take the stress out of restoring your home after a fire.

After a fire you may notice a build up of soot on the walls and a strong smoke odor throughout your home. We are able to take care of the structural cleaning of your home such as cleaning the ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors. We are also able to clean the contents that were affected by the recent fire. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. Lastly our SERVPRO team is able to rid your home of the offensive odors left behind by fire or smoke damage.

Although we never want you to experience a fire in your home, rest assured that SERVPRO of South Columbus always here to help if you do experience an unexpected fire. Call our office at 614-863-1392 for all of your fire damage needs.

The Do's And Don'ts Of Using Power Strips

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

power strip on hardwood floor with multiple plugs plugged into it If you experience an electrical fire caused by a power strip, call SERVPRO of South Columbus for help.

With the endless amount of accessories, appliances, and tools that are becoming more and more common in your household, it can sure be a hassle figuring out where to plug all of them in at. Many homeowners find themselves always swapping plugs or using devices such as a power strip. While a power strip can help you out in many situations, it is the mistake of relying on them too much that causes problems. Follow these tips below to ensure your safety when using a power strip in your home.

  • Use only light load appliances on power strips. That includes computers, lamps, clock, etc.
  • Ensure that the power strip you purchase has an internal circuit breaker. This is a very important safety measure that is designed to prevent property loss and risks of fire.
  • Use power strips sparingly. They aren't designed to maintain a load for an extended period of time, and can easily overheat quickly if used to often.
  • DON'T plug a power strip into another power strip (term is called "daisy chaining"). Doing this will short out appliances and highly increase the risk of an electrical mishap.
  • DON'T use power strips in moist or potentially moist areas. DON'T put them in kitchens, utility rooms or basements.
  • DON'T continue to use a power strip if it feels hot.
  • NEVER cover, staple, tack or nail a power strip to anything. Covering can smother the strip, and provide ample flammable material in the event of a power strip failure. Puncturing can harm the cords, making room for dangerous situations.

Christmas Tree Safety

12/10/2019 (Permalink)

christmas tree with lights on it Call SERVPRO of South Columbus if you experience a fire during this holiday season.

This is the time of the year that people wait all year for. The time of the year where they can finally start decorating for the Christmas holiday. A live Christmas tree is a common choice for most homeowners. But did you know that Christmas trees alone result in 13 million dollars, annually, in property damage? When putting up a live tree in your home, the combination of the tree's dryness, electrical malfunction with lights and poorly located heating sources can make for a deadly combination. Follow these tips below to prevent a potential fire this holiday season.

  • When shopping for a tree, look for a fresh tree with vibrant green needles that are hard to pluck off and don't break off easily from its branches. Fresh trees are less likely to catch fire. 
  • Always place your tree away from any heating sources like fireplaces, candles, radiators, heat vents or lights.
  • Keep the base of the tree filled with water to avoid it drying out.
  • Make sure your indoor and outdoor lights have been tested by the UL or ETL/ITSNA for safety. Throw away any damaged lights you may uncover.
  • Make sure the lights your are using on the exterior of your house are labeled suitable for exterior placement. Plug exterior lighting into a ground-fault circuit interrupter protected receptacle.
  • Keep all of your candles away from the tree, furniture and decor.
  • Don't forget to turn all the lights off on the Christmas tree.

Thanksgiving Cooking Safety

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

fire damaged kitchen The fire in this home was caused by a cooking fire.

With Thanksgiving coming up this week, cooking in the kitchen is going to be hectic but it is important to keep yourself and your family safe from a potential fire. Follow these safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

  • Always stay in the kitchen and keep an eye on the food you are cooking on the stovetop.
  • Stay inside your home when cooking the turkey, and make to check on it frequently.
  • Keep children away from the stove. Have a “kid free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and other area where hot food or liquids are prepared or carried. Steam or splashes from boiling liquids can cause serious burns.
  • Keep all knives out of the reach of children.
  • Make sure there are no electrical cords from an electrical knife, plate warmer or other small kitchen appliance are out of reach from children.
  • Keep matches and utility lighters up high in a locked cabinet.
  • Never leave children alone in a room with a lit candle.
  • Keep the floor clear of all belongings and toys, so you don’t trip.
  • Test all of your smoke alarms to make sure they are working.

Facts From The National Fire Protection Association:

  • The peak day for home cooking fires is Thanksgiving.
  • In 2017, the U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,600 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving.
  • The leading contributing factor in cooking fires and fire deaths is unattended cooking.
  • The second leading cause of home fire deaths involved cooking equipment.

SERVPRO of South Columbus wants you to be safe this Thanksgiving holiday. If you experience unexpected fire damage in your home, please don’t hesitate to call us.

Carbon Monoxide Safety

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Carbon Monoxide detector Carbon Monoxide detectors can help you prevent fires in your home.

Carbon Monoxide is often called “The Invisible Killer”. It is an odorless, colorless gas that frequently goes undetected. When the gas builds up in enclosed spaces, people or animals that breathe it in can be poisoned. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every year more than 400,000 people in the U.S. die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning. Over 20,000 visit the emergency room and over 4,000 are hospitalized.

Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

The winter season can be a prime time for carbon monoxide poisoning since people turn on their heating systems and mistakenly warm up their cars in the garage. It is recommended by the National Safety Council that you install battery operated carbon monoxide detectors in the hallway near each separate sleeping area in your home. Check or replace the batteries when you change the clocks and replace the detector every five years.

Additional tips:

  • Have your furnace, water heater, and any other gas or coal burning appliances services by a trained professional every year
  • Never use portable flame less chemical heaters inside
  • Have your chimney checked and cleaned every year, and make sure the damper in your fireplace is open before lighting a fire and well after the fire is extinguished
  • Never use a gas oven for heating the inside of your home
  • Never use a generator inside your home, basement or garage or less than 2o feet away from any window, door or vent. Fatal levels of carbon monoxide can be produced within minutes even if you have your doors and windows open
  • Never run a car in a garage that is attached to the house

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

  • Low to moderate carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms:
    • Headache
    • Fatigue
    • Shortness of breath
    • Nausea
    • Dizziness
  • High level carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms:
    • Mental confusion
    • Vomiting
    • Loss of muscular coordination
    • Loss of consciousness
    • Death

If your Carbon Monoxide Alarm sounds, immediately move outside to fresh air, and call 9-1-1. Do not reenter the premises until emergency responders have given you permission to do so.

We Will Eliminate Smoke And Odors In Your Columbus Home After A Fire

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

We can examine the extent of the destruction and take the right steps to make it “Like it never even happened.”

How To Eliminate Smoke And Odors After Fire Damage In Your Columbus Home

Fires can happen at any time, and the most common culprits are cooking and heating equipment. Residual damage such as fire odor, smoke, soot, and ash always happens after a fire. Some water damage also commonly occurs while extinguishing fires. All homes contain different materials that burn and create unique cleaning and restoration challenges.

To restore your Columbus home after fire damage, you need to take care of smoke, fire, and water damage. Our SERVPRO Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technicians (FSRTs) have experience in addressing these issues. Smoke and odors can emanate from burned wood or paper and melted plastics. Smoke damage typically falls into 4 categories:

    •    Dry smoke – Usually results from fast-burning and high-temperature fires.
    •    Wet smoke – Results from smoldering or low heat fires. The smoke from a wet fire has a smeary, sticky texture, and a pungent odor.
    •    Fuel oil soot smoke – It results from furnace smoke returns, which cause oily soot.
    •    Protein smoke – Fires that burn plants, food, or other organic matter emit this smoke. It discolors varnishes and paints and has a pungent scent.

Smoke can penetrate walls and other surfaces quickly and drift through air ducts. Smoke odor can remain in furniture and clothing if it not deodorized properly. Smoke also penetrates cabinets and drawers, meaning that if you do not clean up your house properly, the odor can continue to re-occur for long periods.

Smoke can also ruin delicate works of art such as sculptures and paintings. The same acid that damages wood and metals can discolor the paint on canvas and the stone that makes up sculptures. When this occurs, the beauty of an art piece diminishes, and its monetary value reduces. We can work with a curator to restore ruined artwork.

Our fire damage restoration process is proven and thorough. It includes finding the source of the fire to determine the type of smoke and odors present in a home. Our technicians also determine if any areas of a house are wet because of firefighting efforts. We extract the water using shop vacs and dry the affected areas using air moving and dehumidifying equipment. We also remove any charred contents that could seal in smoke and smells like burned wood and insulation.

We can clean affected surfaces to eradicate the soils or soot particles. We perform several cleaning actions based on the affected surface and type of smoke particles present. Our technicians often perform mechanical action before other cleaning actions. Mechanical action is useful for pre-cleaning excess, non-greasy residues from surfaces before applying solvent-based or water-based cleaning products. Our SERVPRO technicians also treat affected surfaces for smoke scents using dry solvent deodorizers and thermal fogging equipment.

To deal with the aftermath of a fire in your home, call SERVPRO of South Columbus at (614) 863-1392 to assist you. We can examine the extent of the destruction and take the right steps to make it “Like it never even happened.”

For more about Columbus click here.

The Ultimate Guide to Fire Damage Remediation in German Village

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration can be a big job. Contact the professionals at SERVPRO today for help.

Top Reasons Fire Damage in German Village Should be Professionally Cleaned

Any size of fire damage in a home can leave behind a host of issues to clean before life can go back to normal. One of the biggest problems, especially among protein-based fires, are the residual fire odors, which is something surface cleaning after a home fire cannot remove.

When SERVPRO handles the restoration of fire damage in German Village homes, one of our first considerations is finding items that our proprietary methods can be used for restoration rather than count as a loss. Our goal in home remediation is to attempt to restore rather than have the homeowner incur the cost of replacing items.

Soot travels

Stopping soot from spreading can happen in the form of containment of fire loss areas in the home or removing charred items as they only contribute odor if there is no restoration potential.

Different types of cleanup needed

Depending on the kind of fire such as protein-based, amount of heat generated and materials burned determines the sort of cleaning method SERVPRO technicians choose to use such as dry cleaning sponges on certain types of smoke residue.

Improper drying creates problems

We use both air scrubbers and air movers to both clean and dry areas damaged by fire and water at the same time. Inadequate drying leads to the embedded moisture weakening building materials, foul odors, and in some cases, mold.

Odor removal

Odor control is a considerable part of fire damage cleanup. Since hot air expands, it can drive soot deeply into porous objects, and smoke odors can seem stubborn to remove. SERVPRO technicians have different equipment ranging from gel pellets to hydroxyl generators that safely neutralize airborne soot particles.

Lessen loss through restoration services

Our technicians train through the methods used by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC) which utilizes the latest techniques and equipment in the restoration services industry to ensure if a smoke damaged possession has the potential for saving from being counted as a loss, we can do it either on-site or in-plant as needed.

SERVPRO of South Columbus (614) 863-1392 handles fire damage of any scale in local properties. We are available 24/7 and arrive soon after your call because We're Faster to Any Size Disaster. 

Click here to see more about German Village. 

Important Factors Keep Our Experts On Top Of The Fire Damage Situation In Your Columbus Home

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

Call us 24/7 as soon as possible after an accident at (614) 863-1392.

Stay On Top Of Fire Damage In Columbus With SERVPRO

One of the most common reasons why people across the country trust SERVPRO to provide quality care for their homes after fire damage is our reputation for making the home look “Like it never even happened.” We build our strategies and business models around helping homeowners recover from fires quickly, at minimal cost, and without any lasting scars on their home to tell the tale of the blaze. Our multifaceted approach to fire damage restoration can sometimes get technical and involved, but a few crucial factors keep us on top of the situation and allow our work to be so effective.

Damage-Free Ash Removal
Removing smoke and ash from homes in Columbus with fire damage can be tricky to accomplish without causing additional damage to walls, ceilings, and home furnishings that need to be cleaned. SERVPRO Fire and Smoke Damage Technicians (FSTs) utilize a variety of cleaning chemicals and techniques to remove damaging materials from the surfaces of your home without causing additional problems. Most of these cleaning agents contain no water base, as the introduction of water can cause smoke and ash particles to clump together and form a sticky sludge that can be much harder to clean than dry materials. Never try to clean ash and smoke away from surfaces with household cleaning products to avoid these potential consequences.

Deodorization
Our chemical fogging machines help us to deodorize broad areas of your home quickly and at a minimal cost. Unlike store-bought deodorizing agents, these special mixtures are explicitly designed to help SERVPRO target and eliminate odors from smoke and ash. After we finish deodorizing your home, the area should smell like nothing at all.

Contents Cleaning
Cleaning up small objects, fabrics, and individual items damaged by the fire can be a hassle without the proper tools. We use a combination of industrial-strength Epcor washing machines, waterless ultrasonic cleaning devices, and hand-applied cleaning methods to restore every part of your home back to the way it was before the disaster.

SERVPRO of South Columbus is a locally owned and operated company that specializes in helping you react to and reverse the effects of fire damage in your home. Call us 24/7 as soon as possible after an accident at (614) 863-1392.

Click here for more about Columbus.

Let Our Team Of Specialists Restore Your Fire Damaged Home In Columbus!

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

Our goal at SERVPRO of South Columbus is to return your home to its original, pre-fire condition.

Cleaning And Remediating Fire Damage To Columbus Homes

Columbus residents can handle everything this winter can throw at them. Soon, ice and snow are as common as grass in the springtime. Even in the middle of a snowstorm or freezing temperatures, a fire can still strike home. Faulty wiring in holiday decorations can cause a tree to go up in flames just like window curtains in a kitchen fire.

Some fire damage to homes in Columbus can be difficult to clean, and regular methods are not an option. In these cases, SERVPRO restoration teams use special cleaners and methods to return the items to their original condition.

Certain porous materials such as curtains and other fabrics are too fragile to use normal cleaners. In some cases, a simple agitation tool like a brush can cause further damage to drapes already heavily soiled by smoke and soot. To eliminate these soils without tearing the material or leaving water and cleaner marks, restoration technicians use absorbent powders.

They cover the item with a layer of powder and allow it to absorb the smoke and soot residues slowly. After allowing enough time to work, SERVPRO team members wipe down the surface with dry sponges to remove the absorbed residue and powder. If the item is an upholstered chair or sofa, technicians can mix the absorbent powder with a small amount of solvent to create a thin paste. They apply the paste to heavily stained spots and allow it to dry. In these situations, team members use a vacuum to remove the absorbent.

On other porous surfaces, technicians use the absorbent powders with solvents or other cleaners a little differently. For brick, concrete, and marble, they first treat them with the chemical cleaners and then cover the affected surfaces with the absorbent. Once it dries completely, team members vacuum the surface and then follow-up with stiff brushes to remove any trace amounts.

Our goal at SERVPRO of South Columbus is to return your home to its original, pre-fire condition. Full restoration is not an easy task, but our teams walk you through every step until we finish. If you need our help with any fire damage, call us today at (614) 863-1392.

Click here for more about Columbus.

Who Can You Trust to Restore Your Business After Fire Damage? SERVPRO Of Course!

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

No matter how severe the damage is, our team will restore your business.

Assistance Helps Speed Up Recovery after Commercial Fire Damage in Columbus

Fires in commercial establishments can be very devastating. Apart from the loss they cause by damaging the structure and contents, they also lead to business closure, which translates to lost revenue. The longer it takes to resume normal operations, the higher the cost of lost opportunities. In the worst cases, the business might even lose customers. We offer restoration services that help commercial establishments recover faster after fire incidents. FSRT certification means our customers benefit from a combination of top-notch equipment and advanced skills sets throughout the restoration process.

The steps taken immediately restoration starts can quicken, or hamper the speed of recovery after commercial fire damage in Columbus. Our SERVPRO technicians rely on their IICRC training to do a thorough evaluation before starting the restoration process. Such evaluation helps us establish the primary form of damage. Depending on the materials and items present in the affected area, it could be a case of predominant flame or smoke damage. If it is a case of smoke damage, we need to establish whether wet or dry smoke is the most prevalent. Having such information helps determine the level of agitation, chemical action and dwell time needed for effective cleaning.

Commercial spaces can present unique size challenges. In a space like a warehouse, the sheer size of the walls, ceilings and other areas that require cleaning can prolong the restoration. In a hotel or office space, the challenge could be large surfaces such as glass windows that require special care to avoid problems like streaking. Our SERVPRO crews use special equipment such as mobile scissor lifts, spotting pad holders and extensions poles when cleaning up vast surfaces saving time.

Our SERVPRO team considers the entire restoration process to determine how much effort to put into each phase, which also helps save time. For instance, if restoration involves repainting the affected surfaces, we clean to remove debris and neutralize the acids in smoke residue then restore the visual appeal though painting.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources


Restoring your fire-damaged premises should not take too long. Call SERVPRO of South Columbus to assist. You can reach us at (614) 863-1392 any time.

For more on Columbus, click here

SERVPRO is the #1 Company to Call in Columbus When Dealing With Fire Damage!

11/16/2018 (Permalink)

Dealing with commercial fire damage on your own can be devastating & stressful. Our techs can help you and give you peace of mind.

Assistance Helps Speed up Recovery after Commercial Fire Damage in Columbus

Fires in commercial establishments can be very devastating. Apart from the loss they cause by damaging the structure and contents, they also lead to business closure, which translates to lost revenue. The longer it takes to resume normal operations, the higher the cost of lost opportunities. In the worst cases, the business might even lose customers. We offer restoration services that help commercial establishments recover faster after fire incidents. FSRT certification means our customers benefit from a combination of top-notch equipment and advanced skills sets throughout the restoration process.

The steps taken immediately restoration starts can quicken, or hamper the speed of recovery after commercial fire damage in Columbus. Our SERVPRO technicians rely on their IICRC training to do a thorough evaluation before starting the restoration process. Such evaluation helps us establish the primary form of damage. Depending on the materials and items present in the affected area, it could be a case of predominant flame or smoke damage. If it is a case of smoke damage, we need to establish whether wet or dry smoke is the most prevalent. Having such information helps determine the level of agitation, chemical action and dwell time needed for effective cleaning.

Commercial spaces can present unique size challenges. In a space like a warehouse, the sheer size of the walls, ceilings and other areas that require cleaning can prolong the restoration. In a hotel or office space, the challenge could be large surfaces such as glass windows that require special care to avoid problems like streaking. Our SERVPRO crews use special equipment such as mobile scissor lifts, spotting pad holders and extensions poles when cleaning up vast surfaces saving time.

Our SERVPRO team considers the entire restoration process to determine how much effort to put into each phase, which also helps save time. For instance, if restoration involves repainting the affected surfaces, we clean to remove debris and neutralize the acids in smoke residue then restore the visual appeal though painting.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources


Restoring your fire-damaged premises should not take too long. Call SERVPRO of South Columbus to assist. You can reach us at (614) 863-1392 any time. 

For more on Columbus, click here

Use Professional Restoration Services to Recover From a Housefire in Columbus

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians begin restoration services immediately after a fire.

Restoration Experts Mitigate Fire Damage and Make Columbus Area Homes Livable Again

One type of disaster in Columbus that does not always have a known cause is a house fire. Sometimes they simply start for no detectable reason. Fire department investigators inspect the home after firefighters put out the flames to see if arson could have been a factor. Once the investigation finishes, we can begin restoring your home so your family can return home and get back to their normal activities and routines.

SERVPRO technicians help families recover from the tragedy of fire damage in Columbus by removing the charred and burned up materials from the home. We bag these up carefully because some of the items contain sharp edges, nails, broken glass, and other hazards. As we work, we do our best to keep the area clean, especially on the floor. Obstacles that might cause someone to trip and fall need removing as quickly as possible, so we keep a constant eye out for these situations. We know you might want to see our progress, and this keeps you safe, also.

One issue that we resolve when we mitigate fire damage is the amount of water introduced into your residence during the firefighters' time at your home. Unless we extract all of this moisture, our other efforts become worthless. This moisture quickly becomes a source for mold and other microbes, as well as a problem for areas of your home that otherwise remained unscathed during the fire.

We can assist you in listing what needs replacing by helping compile inventory lists. These detailed lists also contain information about items that the insurance adjuster must decide. Other items included on the lists are those that need specialized repair work, like computers and electronic devices, musical instruments, and fine art.

Once the moisture content of your home's structure and inside air return to normal, we can carry in new materials. Once installed and painted in your choice of colors, your home starts to look “Like it never even happened.” The last step is gaining control of smoky odors. We use hydroxyl gas or thermal fogging to combat this odor effectively. We want you and your family to feel safe and secure, and we know our thorough work can accomplish this for you.

SERVPRO of South Columbus is ready to help your family after fire damage occurs. We serve those in Lithopolis, Obetz, and Pickerington. Just call us at (614) 863-1392, and we can help get things back how they should be, fast, so you can relax again.

Did you know that Columbus is home to America’s first junior high school? Visit here to learn more facts about Columbus.

A Child Can Find Matches Left Out in Your Columbus Home and Cause Fire Damage

8/13/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Says Children, Candles, and Matches Can Cause Fire Damage in Columbus Area Homes

Surprise Fire Leading to Cleanup and Odor Control Needed? Call SERVPRO

Forgetting to put things back where they belong is usually not a problem, but upon occasion, this forgetfulness can lead to issues inside of your home, such as fire damage. Children are curious, and when small children find a new thing, they usually want to figure out what it is and how it works. However, this curiosity can become dangerous for their safety and the safety of your home when they accidentally set your kitchen drapes on fire.

By the time you put out the flames inside your kitchen with an extinguishe, fire damage in your Columbus home can already be present. The burnt up fabric can leave soot and smoke behind on your walls and the windowsill behind where the curtains were. The potted plans that you keep on the window have been burnt up. Additionally, fire leaves behind a strong odor that is hard to get rid of on your own. Most of the time, opening a window to try and air out the area is not enough and could spread the odors and smoke with air circulation to previously unaffected rooms of your home. Even with a small fire like this started by a candle, calling quickly for professional help can ensure successful remediation.
 
When you contact SERVPRO, we always aim to arrive as swiftly as we possibly can. We know that fire damage is time sensitive and many materials can discolor the longer that soot is attached to them. The quicker that we can arrive to address the damage, the better it is for your home. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.
 
The first task that SERVPRO can address is cleaning up the burnt ashes and fabric pieces that were left behind from the fire. After, we can remove the plants from your window and then choose the best cleaning methods for removing soot from the respective surfaces that are attached to the glass and paint. Usually, soot can be removed through three different methods, lubricative cleaning, abrasive cleaning, and chemical cleaning.
 
Our SERVPRO techs can take down the curtain rod and clean it as well, removing the soot stains from it so new curtains can be hung from it without the worry of greasy stains being left behind on the fabric. We can also carefully clean off your ceramic pots that you keep your plants inside of, by repeatedly spraying the cleaning solution onto the surface and wiping it down. The final task SERVPRO can do for your home is using a device called a thermal fogger to help combat the odor that fire leaves behind. Generally, with a smaller fire, a hydroxyl generator neutralizes the odors.
 
When an accident causes fire damage inside of your home, never wait to call for help. Get in touch with SERVPRO of South Columbus by calling (614) 863-1392. We strive to return your home to its pre-fire state.

Here is the local CFD.

Understanding the Cost of Fire Damage Restoration in Your Columbus Home

7/15/2018 (Permalink)

Doing an estimation for your insurance company after fire damage helps ensure that the remediation process will be done efficiently. Contact SERVPRO.

SERVPRO Technicians Investigate the Damage and Then Provide an Estimate to Your Insurance Adjusters for the Fire Damage Remediation Tasks

When a fire breaks out in your Columbus house, you might not think of the cost of restoration right away. As most homeowners work to save all of the money that they can and get the best value for the money that they are spending, want to have a good gauge on the cost of restoration for their home. The trouble is, there is no clear-cut answer to provide those who are curious. With so many variables, it might be easier to explain a few things that can help you to understand better the end cost and how it reached that point.
 
One of the things that most homeowners would agree on when estimates for fire damage work in Columbus start coming in or after some investigation is that the cost of restoration work seems high. Even with that being said, understanding why things are the estimated cost can make it simpler to process in the long run.
 
An important thing to remember when it comes to restoration work for any residence in the area is the kind of personnel that is necessary. Many jobs require broad assortments of human resources to work successfully. This approach ensures that multiple facets of the restoration get accomplished at the same time, effectively reducing the time it takes our SERVPRO team to restore your home fully.
 
There is also the "cost of doing business" which encompasses all of the administrative processes and planning that goes into successfully restoring a home after a fire. Our SERVPRO professionals also require large pieces of equipment that must get delivered and towed away from job sites. These small pieces of the restoration process add to the collective total, effectively raising the overhead of our cost of business and the cost estimate.
 
Estimations are often given directly to the insurance company adjusters who are responsible for home insurance claims. The faster that this claim can get processed, the faster that restoration work can begin in your fire-damaged home. Give our experienced SERVPRO of South Columbus fire restoration specialists a call today at (614) 863-1392.

Click here for more information on the city of Columbus.

Foul Odors Follow Fire Damage in Your Columbus Residence

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and fire damage can leave behind odors that make your home unlivable, SERVPRO can make ridding your home of odors a priority.

SERVPRO Puts Your Family’s Needs First after Fire Damage

Your Columbus home requires a lot out of you to always be at its best. This upkeep is an essential habit of staying into, though unfortunately, there are times where you can get blindsided by a significant disaster that you could not have expected. When a fire threatens your house, this event takes you far beyond common repairs and upkeep and requires professional restoration services to step in.

Part of the problem here is that fire damage presents itself in several different ways in your Columbus residence. While assuredly there could be effects that are not all that bothersome, some of the lingering symptoms from a recent fire can be uncomfortable to contend with, not to mention hazardous in some circumstances. For this reason, it is always a good idea to contact SERVPRO and utilize our comprehensive team of restoration experts that get specially trained to handle every possible effect of a house fire and how to bring your home back to preloss conditions.

Our team of technicians gets to work immediately upon entering your home assessing the damage and formulating a plan to restore your home efficiently. This process has a lot to do with the feedback and communication that our specialists share with you the homeowner. Being vocal about the most disturbing things that hinder comfortable living in your house ensures that these effects get dealt with before some of the lower scale symptoms that linger behind after a fire.

For many homeowners, odors left behind after a fire can prove noxious and sickening to live around. Our team has several different options when it comes to deodorizing your home, but commonly air scrubbers with HEPA filters get used in conjunction with thermal foggers. The foggers have an odorless chemical compound that neutralizes the molecules of foul scents and leaves no trace.

While this is just a small piece of the entire restoration process, it can show that our SERVPRO of South Columbus team is well-equipped to handle any aspect of your fire restoration needs. When you are facing a disaster like this, trust our experienced specialists to help you set things right. Give us a call today at (614) 863-1392.

Click here for more information on the city of Columbus.

Fire Damage Specialists in Columbus

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

After you and your family are safe and the fire fighters leave, contact SERVPRO for fire damage remediation and restoration services.

Team SERVPRO Offers Remediation Services Regardless if the Fire Damage is Large or Small

It is never a pleasant experience when a fire starts inside your Columbus condominium. Fires not only threaten the safety of you and your family but are costly to repair as well. The heat, flames, and smoke produced by fire many times cause extensive damage to your building.
 
Whether the fire is small or large, it is a smart move to let the professionals come in and assess the situation. SERVPRO's fire damage experts in Columbus are IICRC certified and have experience with different types of scenarios.
 
Both the heat and smoke created by a blaze cause different types of damage to your condo. Flames burn contents and building materials inside the building. Smoke spreads throughout the structure leaving behind soot and foul odors. Our professional crews at SERVPRO get taught how to mitigate fire damage by putting each case into a category based on the severity of the damage.
 
In fire damage situations, there are three main types of severity. Putting each damage scenario into a certain level of severity helps our specialists know what types of methods to use when mitigating the problem. The three levels are minor, medium and major fire damage.
 
In minor fire damage situations, smoke residues only affect individual rooms of the building that are near the source. The amount of soot left behind from the smoke is minimal. Very few areas get re-painted, and only some minor items get replaced. Most of the mitigation process involves wet and dry cleaning of the ceiling, walls, and other surfaces.
 
In medium fire damage cases, the amount of smoke residues is moderate and more areas need wet cleaning. The areas that need to be re-painted and items that require replacement increase. Most of the time with medium fire damage contents inside the home get cleaned on site, but there is heat damage to building materials.
 
In major fire damage scenarios, there is a lot of heat and flame damage at the fire's source, and structural charring is even possible. In these cases, emergency procedures such as boarding up the exterior of the building and detailed cleaning of the structure possibly takes place. The building gets filled with smoke damage and foul odors, and usually, our crews must pack out the house and clean the contents offsite.
 
No matter how severe the damage in your condo is, hiring professionals always gets you the best results. SERVPRO of South Columbus can be reached at (614) 863-1392, and we are available 24 hours a day and seven days a week to help you.

Click here for more information regarding the Columbus area.

Providing Expert Fire Damage Restoration Services and Building Relationships in Columbus

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO as soon as the fire is out to prevent further damage to your home.

Rely on SERVPRO When a Fire Leaves Your Home Unsafe and Damaged

When your Columbus area property suffers fire damage, acting quickly can be vital to limiting the losses you experience as well as the amount of damage inflicted on your home. Some homeowners think that once the fire is out, the damage stops, allowing you the opportunity to clean things up later. 

Unfortunately, fire damage in your Columbus home continues long after the flames go out. In a matter of hours, furniture, appliances, and personal belongings can go from restorable to unsalvageable. Ash, soot and smoke residues take their toll on porous materials while wreaking havoc on the protective coatings on harder surfaces found in your home as well. 

Your home is precious; you work hard to make a safe place for your family to enjoy. Our team at SERVPRO understands what it means when you trust us with your home restoration tasks and take it to heart when finding solutions to help fellow members of our local community recover. We live, work, and play right here beside you, making it essential to support those around us and keep our community active, healthy, and secure. 

SERVPRO’s IICRC-industry certified technicians can inspect your home, offering quality restoration services that are specific to your situation. Our restoration experts can also help you determine the amount of restoration you need, basing solutions on the amount of damage present and manage your entire restoration from start to finish. 

We provide you with the latest tools, equipment, and techniques available and provide you with a variety of services that help restore fire and water damage often caused by this type of event. SERVPRO technicians implement services that follow local, state, and federal guidelines for packing, transporting, and disposing of any materials found unsalvageable and work hard to maintain a safe working environment throughout your restoration process.

SERVPRO of South Columbus has full emergency response teams available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, including weekends and holidays. We are always available, providing professional restoration personnel, equipment, and resources throughout Bexley, Obetz, and Lithopolis at a moments notice.  Call us today at (614) 863-1392.

Click here for more information on the city of Columbus.

Water Removal is an Important Part of Fire Damage Restoration to Your Columbus Home

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO right after the fire fighters leave for best results. Dealing with both fire and water damage requires trained professionals.

Restoring Fire Damage Undoubtedly Includes Dealing With Water Damage As Well

When you visualize the effects of fire to your Columbus residence, you often think of things like charred belongings and extensive structural damages. While fires might not always cause this kind of devastation, they can often prove challenging to extinguish through traditional firefighting efforts. The result of this could be extensive water damages from the thousands of gallons pulled from a close hydrant to suppress the flames.
 
Professional restoration services like what we offer at SERVPRO go well beyond the basic fire damage restoration needs of your Columbus home. From the moment that we arrive at your house, our assessment of the damage begins, meticulously looking over the entire affected area and putting together the most efficient restoration plan possible.
 
Our efforts will most likely begin with boarding up windows or sealing up any holes that your home might have experienced due to the fire itself or the extinguishing efforts. The sealing prevents any further damage during the restoration process from bad weather or the elements outside. If there is water damage present, our SERVPRO technicians get to work on fixing this problem next.
 
Water damage needs to be remedied most expediently because it can continue to damage your home if it is left unattended. Moreover, the presence of water mixed with some warmer temperatures can provide ideal conditions for mold growth, which would only compound on the restoration efforts that you already need. So, extraction and drying have to be among the first steps taken when water damage exists in the house.
 
The process of extracting water is contingent on the amount that is in your house. For extreme cases, pump trucks might be brought in to pull large volumes from the floor quickly. For more moderate messes, extraction can get accomplished using portable pumps and wet-vacs. Once the area dries with air movers, a full assessment of the remaining fire damage is possible, and work can resume on this front.
 
Dealing with a fire to your Columbus home undoubtedly comes with considerable stress. Our SERVPRO of South Columbus team is available anytime you need us at (614) 863-1392.

For more information regarding the town of Columbus, click here.

How To Adequately Deal With Fire Damage In Columbus

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

After the Firefighter Leaves Your Columbus Property, Call in SERVPRO for Cleanup and Restoration

Cleanup, Restoration, and Odor Removal Are All Key Elements of SERVPRO Services Post Fires

Fire disasters are always a nightmare, and no one wants to experience them. However, they are a common occurrence in Columbus, and all are encouraged to handle them correctly. The causes of fire disasters are many, and as much as you protect yourself, you may find a situation where you need a fire damage restoration service.

Fire damage in Columbus is a pretty big deal, and you may be in need of SERVPRO services to help you restore your property. After the occurrence of such a catastrophe, the resulting soot and smoke are some of the challenges to expect. You need to do some work if you need your property restored to its earlier state.

Structural cleaning is one of the first steps after a fire damage incident. The carpets, floors, ceilings, and walls also need a thorough cleaning. Your structure has different kinds of surfaces that need specific cleaning products and equipment. At SERVPRO, a team of highly trained professionals can carry out an assessment and determine the precise tools necessary for restoring your property. To make sure the new paint sticks to your walls, wiping down and prepping must be done correctly.

At that time, you have to restore some of the damaged components and material through professional deodorization and cleaning. Some of the areas to be restored include upholstery, furniture, area rugs, and draperies. The cleaning process requires different methods, and assessment is done to determine the right procedure to use. SERVPRO can offer pack-outs to store and clean items off-site, ultrasonic cleaning and Esporta machine washing. All methods are available to fit the needs of the cleanup and restoration.

Fire usually leaves offensive odors to your structure and deodorization is necessary. Using air fresheners or any fragrance is not recommended. Masking noxious odors is not a permanent fix. Go ahead and identify the source of the smell and get rid of it. Several deodorization methods do exist, and they require specific equipment that needs proper handling by trained technicians. Thermal fogging allows the counteracting agents to follow the paths of the fire thus routing out and neutralizing the odors left behind.

SERVPRO of South Columbus is here to help you restore your fire damaged property "Like it never even happened." Call us at (614) 863-1392 and get quality professional service from highly trained staff and technicians.

Your Fire Department is here to protect you.

Fire Damage in Columbus Has Long-Term Impact

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke & Fire Restoration in South Columbus is a Cornerstone of SERVPRO Services

Many Facets of Damage Result from Fires in Columbus

In Columbus, it takes time for your family to recover from a fire. The emotional impact is severe. Children have nightmares; pets show signs of anxiety. It is equally hard on you, as you try to keep the family running along normal lines. At the same time, you are dealing with insurance companies, finding temporary accommodations, and attempting to come up with the money to replace lost clothing and furnishings.

 
The physical effect of fire damage in Columbus is also long term. Fire can gut a home, leaving a charred mess in its wake. However, even a smaller fires can result in ongoing damage, often unseen, but major nonetheless. A smoky smell can linger for months if it is not treated promptly. Black soot can cover countertops and furniture. Appliances can break down.
 
The technicians at SERVPRO have the experience and training to handle the aftereffects of a fire, big or small. We are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, which sets the standards for the industry. We receive highly specialized training in how to clean up after a fire, deodorize, and clean upholstery and fabric. Our focus is always on cleaning and repair, restoring only when necessary.
 
We encounter fire damage on a daily basis, so we know what to look for when we conduct a comprehensive inspection and fire damage assessment. We can board up the house and install a roof tarp if needed. We are experts in water removal and drying.
 
When it comes to getting rid of smoke and soot residue, we combine multiple techniques to get the job done. For example, to remove bad odors, we might use a mix of chemical containment, vapor odor control, and thermal fogging. We have the cutting-edge equipment, tools and cleaning agents that get the soot and smell off all surfaces.
 
When you are faced with cleaning up after a blaze, we can help. SERVPRO of South Columbus is available 24/7. Call us at (614) 863-1392. We are centrally located, serving Columbus, Bexley, and Reynoldsburg.

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Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Services Available In Columbus

4/5/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke Damage in Your Columbus Home Gets a Clean Up from SERVPRO

SERVPRO Provides Cleanup in Columbus After a Smoky Fire

Your home consists of many contents; each of these items contains a variety of materials. When your belongings get caught in a fire, smoke, soot, and heat residues develop. When a fire restoration company comes to your home, they need to understand how to deal with each of them to return your property to a quality preloss condition.
 
Typically, when a fire occurs on your Columbus area property, fire damage or the area that requires fire restoration services often contains a variety of residues. A restoration company sends cleaning and repair technicians certified in the treatment or replacement of materials found after the fire is out, to help you get things under control and return your lives to normal as soon as possible.
 
SERVPRO technicians understand that a fire progresses through a variety of stages, causing different substances to generate both wet and dry smoke residues. Even though most situations allow for accurate classification, all of these residues exist, making cleaning and restoration services rather challenging.
 
SERVPRO sends a full team of qualified professionals to your home as a response to the initial call. Technicians arriving on the scene perform a thorough inspection and assessment of your property to determine the number of damages that exist and any hazards that might cause problems as they get started.
 
After relaying all information to you and answering all of your questions to your satisfaction, SERVPRO technicians go to work eliminating problems that exist, one step at a time. The technicians use their expertise to determine which aspects affect a specific surface and decide which cleaning process would produce the best results.
 
When dealing with a predominantly dry fire, materials respond well to cleaning methods. Dry smoke residues carry aerosols through the air, leaving dry particles on the various surfaces. However, dry smoke does not stain surfaces as harshly as wet smoke and odors do not penetrate as deeply, which makes the cleaning and removal of these residues much easier.
 
Wet smoke residues present a more difficult and challenging problem. Slow-burning fires tend to work residues into crevices or confined spaces farther than other fires, causing stains and odor penetration, often trapping residues inside of specific materials.
 
When you are looking for help with restoring your property after a fire, contact SERVPRO of South Columbus. We are here to help and get things back on track in a timely and efficient manner. (614) 863-1392

Facing Fire Damage Restoration Head-On In Wrightsville Beach

3/23/2017 (Permalink)

When it comes to choosing between restoring or replacing, our SERVPRO technicians choose restoration.

Your Wrightsville Beach Fire-Damaged Home Can Be Restored By SERVPRO


The majority of damage caused by a fire in your home happens when the fire is out, rather than when it is blazing away. The acidic residues left behind by a fire get introduced to water during suppression efforts and continue destroying your home even after the flames are gone.

This devastation makes responding to and dealing with the fire damage situation in your Wrightsville Beach home crucial. Obtaining the help provided by expertly trained professionals allows you to reclaim the majority of your property and any of its contents affected by a fire successfully.

When it comes to choosing between restoring or replacing, SERVPRO’s restoration first mentality leads our technicians to find solutions to meet your unique circumstances. Often meeting or exceeding any expectations you may have had before work began.

SERVPRO technicians receive IICRC certification training in fire and smoke restoration procedures. Combining this training with years of experience in dealing with materials such as carpeting, upholstery and other fabrics while also using specialized equipment to clean, deodorize, and restore various surfaces found in your home.

Water extraction equipment, such as hand-held and truck mounted extractors of varying sizes allow us to remove standing water from a variety of areas, including those that are hard to reach. We also use air movers, dehumidifiers, and fogging equipment helps us protect areas of your property and limit further damage while your restoration is underway.

SERVPRO cleaning technicians put various methods to use, scrubbing any lingering smoke or soot residues from all of your home’s surfaces and removing acidic substances that cause additional damages to develop. Using a variety of cleaning methods to remove residues in an efficient way that limits damage to various materials and restores items quickly and efficiently.

By applying the appropriate professional techniques to different surfaces throughout your home, we can often restore a variety of contents that might seem unsalvageable, which makes it important for you to allow our technicians the opportunity to inspect each item thoroughly before determining its fate. We have been extremely successful in restoring many items that you cherish to a quality pre fire damage condition.


Locally Owned Company with National Resources


Time is essential during your restoration process, contact SERVPRO of South Columbus today for expert help restoring your home after a fire. (614) 863-1392 

Preparation Against Fire Damage On Your Townsend Property

2/21/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and Fire Damage in Townsend

Be Prudent to Prevent Damages to Your Townsend Home Caused by Fire

As a crackling campfire or a cheerful blaze in a fireplace, fire offers heat, light, and comfort in most situations. However, a small fire can also become life-threatening within just two minutes, engulfing an entire structure in as little as five minutes.
 
According to the American Red Cross, a large number of homes throughout the Townsend are ill-prepared for fire damage. Most have broken or untested fire alarms, and avoid putting in the time required to come up with an escape plan, much less conduct preparedness fire drills to ensure everyone's safety, which is something we should all encourage changing.
 
Smoke alarms and a proper escape plan are the essential building blocks of a proper preparedness plan. However, that is only the beginning. SERVPRO encourages everyone to apply themselves to fire safety in their homes.
 
Electrical appliances are a fantastic convenience, but they can also be a major fire source. Dangers often include flickering lights caused by loose outlets, leading to an unusual amount of heat, scorch marks or frequently blown fuses. Frayed electrical cords, placing cords under carpeting or rugs, or leaving them where people can trip over them cause hazards that you should avoid.
 
Be smart when using candles by placing them in the proper candleholder, or on a heat-resistant surface, while making sure that the open flame is the appropriate distance away from flammable objects. Never use candles in a place where children or pets can reach them and knock them over, or leave them unattended for any reason.
 
Remain particularly safe when cooking in your kitchen, pay attention, stay on task and keep safety in mind. Get others fired up about safety in your home, let the people you love know that their safety is important and include them in your fire drills to ensure that they make it out too.
 
If a fire incident happens in your home, you are likely to discover fire, smoke, and water damages that you have no idea how to handle. You are far from alone, SERVPRO's restoration professionals are available to assess the situation, limit further damage by placing protective tarps and boarding up the impacted areas.
 
SERVPRO can also provide you with any water removal, cleaning and sanitization services needed to remove smoke and soot from your living space, as well as complete an entire restoration process to assist you with providing you with a quick, efficient solution to get things back to normal.
 
Contact SERVPRO of South Columbus immediately for additional advice about preparedness options or to gain the services from a professional company that is on your side. (614) 863-1392

Fire Damage Cleanup in Canal Winchester

12/6/2016 (Permalink)

Your Canal Winchester Property Contains Smoky Residue and Odor After a Fire

Relieve Stress-Let SERVPRO Restore Your Fire Damaged Home

Fires, whether small or large, are devastating and destructive. Dealing with the effects of fire is mentally and physically exhausting. For many homeowners who have experienced such a disaster, the fire damage has permanently destroyed valuable homes and property, plus precious memories. That is why you need a full-service contract company, such as SERVPRO, which will work hard to clean and restore your home after a fire.

Our professional staff will fully reconstruct any structural damage caused by the fire damage, and inspect for any more loss from water and smoke damage in Canal Winchester. After a fire, you must consider the fact that not only will there be damage from the fire, but there could be water damage as well from the firefighting efforts and damage from smoke and soot that reach beyond the effects of the flames. These things need to be taken care of as soon as possible, and in a professional manner, to prevent any more damage from occurring.

SERVPRO staff will also work with your insurance company to make sure that your property is restored to its pre-loss condition. Our aim is to give you ease your mind during this stressful time and to help you and your family return quickly to the comfort that you are used to enjoying. We will handle any of the small details of restoration and cleaning as well so you can concern yourself with other facts of life. We understand that this time is stressful enough without having to deal with all the restoration problems, too.

Soot and smoke can damage your belongings and property, causing odors which will linger for years if they are left untreated. Our expert team will, therefore, get your home back into shape in a timely fashion. We will take an approach which is meticulous and thorough in repairing and restoring your property. When you call our team at SERVPRO, you will be benefitting from our compassionate approach to customer service and industry experience. As part of our repair process, we will perform services that include:  
Soot removal
Furniture and floor cleaning
Deodorization and Disinfecting

While we might not be able to expedite the healing process from the emotional impact of a fire, we will make the cleanup process successful and efficient. If you need such services, refer to our team at SERVPRO of South Columbus. You will be dealt with fairly when you call us at (614) 863-1392.

When Fire Damages Your Home In Lithopolis Call SERVPRO For Professional Restoration

11/10/2016 (Permalink)

Terrifying and overwhelming, a fire in your home is a significant life event.

Fire Damage And Your Home

Terrifying and overwhelming, a fire in your home is a significant life event. Unlike minor emergencies or routine house maintenance you can handle yourself, recovering from a house fire is a process that requires guidance from our highly-qualified SERVPRO professionals. Fire damages not only your home’s structure and belongings it can also unleash dangerous compounds that will diminish air quality inside your house, possibly putting your family’s health at risk. The fire may have been controlled with retardants from pressurized extinguishers as well as water, both of which may have doused the blaze but also add to the chemical and microbial residue that must cleared properly by trained individuals.

Greasy and toxic soot and residue from a fire are not simple to remove and your attempts to scrub away smoke and heat damage may make things worse rather than better. Our staff follows protocols that are based on experience and research into the best practices for fire damage restoration. Let the major cleaning be done by us in accordance with these industry standards so that your home is ready for habitation quickly.

If the structure is safe for you to enter after a fire, placing clean sheets or towels on furnishings or walkways is something you can do to minimize the spread of soot and other residues. Empty pantries of food for disposal if exposed to smoke and heat. Remove cold and frozen food from non-functioning freezers and refrigerators. Upholstered furniture and clothing must be handled by workers who are experienced in smoke and residue removal to ensure lingering odors or emissions do not harm your health. SERVPRO staff will have specific suggestions for things you can do to limit further damage to your home and health while we take on the job of cleaning, restoring and repairing walls, ceilings, flooring and fixtures.

Team with SERVPRO of South Columbus after a fire damages your home, learning from local pros what a homeowner can do and what should be left to restoration experts. A call to (614) 863-1392 anytime or day of the year will send an inspector to discuss with you to create the best plan for your situation.

Fire Damage Experts of Ohio

7/19/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Is Ready to Restore Your Reynoldsburg Fire Damaged Property

SERVPRO's Expertise Can Restore Your Fire Damaged Property

The history of this part of Ohio began in the early 1800's. Many older buildings have been turned into quaint businesses, points of interest, and museums. We are proud to be a part of this community.

 This city is located just east of the capital of Columbus. The city carries the motto “The City of Respect.” Due to its historical importance to Ohio, fire damage in Reynoldsburg would not show any respect; it would be devastating. The buildings in and around this peaceful suburban community have been standing for many years.
 
However, when a fire does break out, business owners and homeowners will require specialized equipment and experience. Also needed are skilled experts who know how to handle all types of fires and the end results. SERVPRO adheres to The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification--IICRC guidelines, following best methods for fire damage restoration. This means that we are highly trained with constant continuing education in this field. We are team members of the National Disaster Recovery Team, part of the national franchises to help others in our area, and out of state. Our knowledge and experience help Ohioans with all of their natural disaster or accidental restoration needs. Let our experience and strong customer satisfaction achievements help you.
 
Along with our expertise, we work with the best equipment that is available in the industry. Our fleet of vehicles contains truck-mounted water pumps, portable pumping systems, air movers, dehumidifiers, ozone machines, foggers, and portable generators. Our supply of industrial chemicals, cleaners, and products is always top shelf. With a careful plan of action, we guarantee your satisfaction with the fire damaged restoration to your home or business.

We are a trusted leader in the disaster restoration industry. We help with Ohio's residential and commercial fire damage mitigation and reconstruction problems. Please call our experts anytime with our 24 hours a day emergency services, seven days a week. Our quick response to your disaster can help you avoid any further secondary damages and to prepare your property for restoration.
 
As a member of the community, we at SERVPRO of South Columbus are locally owned and operated. Contact us immediately when there is a fire or any other type of damage to your property. Call (614) 863-1392 and let us help you to restore your life and valuable property.

We're Here To Help with Fire and Water Damage!

4/21/2016 (Permalink)

Stove fires are always at the top reasons for a fire. Never leave a stove unattended when using it, because that quick minute can lead to a disaster.

Anyone who has suffured a fire loss, can attest to the great emotional stress inflicted upon all involved.  We at SERVPRO of South Columbus see it all to much, but are trained to help people process the wide range of emotional outbursts such as fear, pain, anger, sadness, etc. and we try to be very sensitive to what our clients are "feeling".  No judgement, just help! 

Fire and Water Damage are two core components of our business.  We help you get back to normal (if there is such a place) as quickly as possible.  We understand loss of possessions is difficult, but loss of life (human, animal, plant) is devastating!  So I offer a couple of suggestions after you get out safely:  Dont make any decisions, sign forms, or anything else that requires much thinking for at least 24 hours, because frankly--you're probably not thinking correctly due to the stress!  Let the professionals in your life handle all the details, such as who will come clean, repair, replace, etc. all your items. These people are your insurance agent, adjuster, property manager, and the like.  As an established and trusted brand SERVPRO of South Columbus can also be one of those people, as we like to watch out for our clients and customers--not just get get a job!  We are 24/7 and here to help  614-863-1392.