Have you checked your smoke alarms recently?

6/23/2023 (Permalink)

Going over the plumbing in a residential home.

June 2023

Has your apartment or rental home owner ever given you a list to cross off and hand back to the property manager saying you have checked that everything worked and nothing is broken? Did you test out the smoke alarm to make sure it worked?

When smoke alarms are properly installed and maintained, they save lives. According to the National Fire Protection Association (https://www.nfpa.org/), residential smoke alarms should be in every bedroom and on every level, including the basement. In office and commercial environments, check your state requirements or contact your local fire marshal to help ensure all codes are met. Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years. Other alarms need batteries replaced every year, and the unit replaced every ten years. If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately. Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm. Almost half of fires where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries. In larger commercial facilities, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits such as not needing to be tested as often and activating throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area. If you need help installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross (https://www.redcross.org/).

Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills. For more information on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO of West Tampa at 813-855-0888

Fire damage? We are here to help!

12/19/2022 (Permalink)

Roof damage as a result of a stove catching fire

Fire damage usually isn't on the mind of most homeowners until a situation arises. While fires typically happen unexpectedly, their severity can offer a range of different effects to your home. This hurdle requires professional restoration services as they have the tools and expertise to do the job thoroughly, and it is a requirement for most insurance companies handling a claim.

While you might not be adequately prepared for the fire damages that you now face in your Tampa residence, SERVPRO of West Tampa is always ready to help. Our technicians are trained to deal with all levels of fire restoration from smoke/soot cleaning to water damages left behind after extinguishment.

When our technicians arrive, we work quickly to fully restore your home. This process begins with an initial assessment of the damage that your home faces and what restoration techniques to implement. We then set out to cover and board off any openings that the fire has left in the house, which might expose your home to further external damages.

Water damage is a common problem after a fire and cleaning up the damage must occur before fire restoration gets underway to prevent compounding damage like mold growth. Addressing the most pressing issues of the recent fire ensure that you can exist more comfortably in your home, and this process includes smoke and soot removal from all affected surfaces.

While there are several layers to the restoration process, our experienced restoration specialists can handle any damage that a recent fire has presented to your home and can help you take the necessary steps to make it "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (813) 855-0888.

Professional Restoration After a Tampa Fire

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

After a fire call the specialists at SERVPRO of West Tampa (813) 855-0888.

Residential and commercial fires are unpredictable and can be devastating.
Hopefully you have given thought to fire prevention for your home. In addition to taking these steps, you have also developed an escape plan with your family. In the unfortunate case of a serious fire, would you know where to turn after the fire crews leave?

SERVPRO of West Tampa (813) 855-0888 is the simple, effective solution. We'll respond quickly and get to work restoring your property.

One of the first steps in our fire damage restoration process is the inspection.

Without proper and careful inspection, we cannot be sure of risk factors in the environment, the extent of damage, critical utility locations, and numerous other important factors. Inspection can sometimes be a lengthy process, as SERVPRO of West Tampa inspectors have to look for and catalog many different factors.

Here are some of the things that we look for in homes that have taken fire damage.
 

Structural Instability

 
One of the most important considerations when inspecting fire damage in Tampa is structural stability. Fires, as they burn through supports and other structural components, can create unstable conditions and high potential for collapse. Our technicians look for signs of structural weakening to ensure the safety of both you and SERVPRO of West Tampa technicians, such as warped walls, burned columns, caved-in ceilings, buckled door frames, and scraping between doors, windows, and their upper frames. Any of these may be an indicator of a weakened structure, so knowing of them before any work begins has the potential to save lives.

Spots for Tarping and Boarding

 
Immediately following inspection, our crews move in with tarps and boards to seal up any windows, doors, or holes in the home that leave it open to the elements. Inspectors look for these openings and compose plans to seal them most effectively.

 
Damage Inspection

 
Of course, the central part of any fire damage inspection is what has been hurt, and how much. Inspectors will catalog items, surfaces, and areas which have taken damage, describing in detail for our other teams how bad the situation is and what factors caused it. From there, our technicians can work to apply appropriate cleanup processes and measures. If you have used our ERP (Emergency Ready Profile) system, this process may be greatly accelerated as our inspectors will have access to plans and inventory lists beforehand.

 
SERVPRO of West Tampa works with you to get fire damage cleaned up quickly at a fair price. Call us at all hours at (813) 855-0888.

Professional Restoration Response to Fire Damage in Tampa

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

A fire in your home or business can be a frightening experience.  Depending on the amount of damage it can be overwhelming. Understanding the restoration process isn't easy. There are so many things to consider and so many decisions to be made.

One Call in Tampa

 Call the trained, certified experts at SERVPRO of West Tampa (813) 855-0888, they can even work with your insurance company. 

The only way to restore most of the materials in the building is by rigorous evaluation, cleanup, repair, and replacement.

Every fire comes with a unique type of damage. Low oxygen fires tend to leave wet, smoky residues that are harder to remove than the drier smoke residue that a high oxygen fire generates. Additionally, the water used to extinguish the fire can cause indoor humidity to rise significantly, allowing more smoke and residue to penetrate the wood in the structure.  

Whichever type of fire you are dealing with, you need to contact a fire restoration company as soon as the firefighting crew departs. SERVPRO of West Tampa can provide quick and efficient fire damage restoration services for your Tampa home. We have highly skilled professionals who are certified by the IICRC, ensuring that you get back control of your home in no time.

SERVPRO of West Tampa Response to Fire Damage

 SERVPRO of West Tampa professionals offer specialized services for getting rid of bad odors left by smoke or fire damage. We seek out the odor sources and eliminate them instead of simply covering them with a fragrance.

This process involves using advanced deodorization equipment such as Thermal Foggers and Ultra Low Volume Foggers. Thermal foggers are suitable for confined spaces while ULV foggers can easily penetrate sites with odor-causing residues.  

If the house contents are at risk of additional fire damage from prolonged exposure, we may recommend a move-out. Our experts are adequately trained on proper move-out procedures to prevent additional damage to your property, including efficient inventory taking. We use Contents Claim Inventory Service technology to generate comprehensive inventories for each room.

Contents are grouped into questionable, salvageable, and non-salvageable items for easier settlement.  To determine the best cleaning services for the job, our technicians must first test the extent of the smoke damage. We use air and fluids to extract soils, either through vacuuming or dissolving. Vacuuming is particularly useful for removing dry particles that are loosely attached to surfaces.

When they come into contact with moisture, solid particles can be difficult to clean off. Dissolving is used to remove soils and residues that are not loose particles. In this case, it is important to consider the type of surface involved to avoid damaging the material being cleaned. Some surfaces are vulnerable to water while others do not react well with solvents.

Small or large, fire can occur unexpectedly and cause considerable property damage. Fortunately, you have SERVPRO of West Tampa to count on for fast and efficient fire damage restoration services. In case of an emergency, contact us immediately at (813) 855-0888.

Residential Fire Causes in Tampa

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

If you have fire damage call SERVPRO of West Tampa for immediate assistance (813) 855-0888.

A small flare-up or flash fire can wreak havoc on a condo or multiple floors of an apartment or business building if safeguards are not maintained.

It is sometimes a small fire that can develop into massive fire damage destroying a building.

The following are the most common fire hazards leading to fire damage in a Tampa structure that forces a closure.

Smoking

Maintain designated areas for smoking when necessary. If possible, with the warm climate in Tampa, this can be an outside area. Typically, inside smoking is no longer permitted.

Electrical Wiring and Equipment

Install equipment and wires in compliance with local codes and OSHA regulations. Make sure maintenance is done by licensed electricians. Do not overload outlets or use long extension cords.

Fuel Gas

Install equipment in compliance with local codes and OSHA regulations. Professionals oversee maintenance.

Heat-Producing Appliances/Equipment/Boilers

Install equipment in compliance with manufacturers' recommendations and local codes. Allow only trained personnel to operate equipment.

Flammable/Combustible Liquids

These should be stored in approved cabinets, containers, and well ventilated and fortified areas. All workers must be trained in how to handle these dangerous products.

There should be locking metal containers for waste, which should be disposed of daily. Assess areas as safe for usage. Contractors must follow facility procedures and report all use of flammable liquids.

Fuel Gas Cylinders

These must be stored in a well-ventilated area, with any oxygen tanks a minimum of 20 feet away. Assess areas as safe for usage. Prevention mechanisms must be in place, such as chains so that they cannot topple over. They should be transported on cylinder carts in upright positions. They should be used at least 20 feet away from hazards with "Hot Work" or "Hot Work Procedure" signs. Only trained personnel should use them.

Oxygen Cylinders

These must be stored at least 20 feet away from flammable or highly combustible material and in well-ventilated locations. Secured to prevent tipping over. They should also be transported on cylinder carts in upright positions. Only trained personnel should use them.

Propane Vehicles

Only trained personnel should use them. They must be properly maintained. Drivers must be trained to handle the propane and the vehicle safely. Cylinders must be safely stored. Maintenance of cylinders must be done by a reputable supplier.

Electric Vehicles

With particular attention to golf cart barns. They must be properly maintained. They must be charged in well-ventilated areas that have been approved for this purpose. No arcing or sparks. This requires special care since it can be an open area to the public.

If you own a building, you do not have complete control over what residents or employees may be doing. You can develop a fire prevention plan to help lessen the risk of fire damage.

In the unfortunate event that your business or apartment building incurs fire damage along with water damage and smoke intrusion, call the experts, SERVPRO of West Tampa. You will receive an immediate response from us, and we will get you back to pre-fire conditions as quickly as is possible. "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO of West Tampa for immediate assistance (813) 855-0888.

Fire Damage in Your Tampa Home or Business Requires Immediate Attention

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

If you have fire damage to your home, call SERVPRO of West Tampa at (813) 855-0888.

There are many different factors that ultimately lead to a fire. Even a prevention plan will only reduce the risk of fire, it will not eliminate the potential of a fire hazard. There are ways to limit the possibility of fire. One method is to keep smoking restricted to designated areas. These selected areas also need maintenance to lower the chance of fire damage. In most cases, the preferable area for smoking is outside. Electrical wiring should be installed in compliance with OSHA regulations and local codes.

Licensed electricians should be the ones to do the maintenance. Other aspects of the home like fuel gas and appliances that produce heat should be up to standard.

Experiencing a fire in your home or business can be devastating. You don't want to be complacent about taking care of the fire damage. It is imperative to make sure that you react to the necessary cleanup which has resulted from the flame out. In most cases, you are going to need a professional to take care of the fire damage so that you can be sure that your house will not be vulnerable to on-going problems.

Fire Damage is something that needs to be quickly and thoroughly cleaned up and fixed by professionals from SERVPRO of West Tampa. Even after taking care of the fire, it is important to look for any additional damage that may have occurred.

Long after the fire is out, certain forms of damage could become visible such as cracked foundations, contamination, toxic fumes, leaking pipes from the heat, or even mold growth. For this reason, it is critical to making sure that every bit of moisture or damage is found in the home and repaired.

By hiring an experienced team of skilled fire damage restoration technicians, you can be assured that these IICRC trained individuals will utilize industry leading equipment to mitigate the harm caused by the inferno. Fast response to limit secondary water damage resulting from the firefighters' efforts to extinguish the flames is of great importance.

Our expert service technicians arrive promptly after you call SERVPRO of West Tampa at (813) 855-0888.

Preparing Your Family in Case of a Housefire

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

A house fire can be frightening,  preparing your family ahead of time can ensure everyone gets out safely. Take a few minutes to review the tips below and go over them with your family.
 

Escape Plan

You should first ensure that your entire family knows what to do in case of a fire in your home. Make an escape plan and practice it several times per year with your family. Make sure your family members know not to put their lives in danger to save possessions, but instead take the way outside which is most direct. If you must exit through smoke, know to drop down under it and try to cover your mouth to keep from breathing smoke indirectly. If a door is hot to the touch, do not open it or go through it.

 
Rope Ladders

If you live in a two-story home, every bedroom should have a rope ladder which is readily available so family members can climb down outside instead of being trapped. A meeting spot outside your home needs to be designated, and ensure you take attendance, so you know who is out safely. In this way, you keep people from endangering themselves by going back in and looking for someone who is already out. If someone is missing, make sure to alert the firefighters – do not ever re-enter the home yourself.

 
Stop, Drop, Roll

Everyone should know how to do this if fire catches on your clothes. Drop to the ground right away, cross your hands over your chest, and roll forward and back until you smother the flames completely. Cool the area that is burned with water and call for medical attention right away for serious burns.

 
Fire Extinguishers

Places such as your workshop, fireplace, and kitchen should have fire extinguishers nearby. Every family member should know how to use it as well properly. Extinguishers need to be regularly recharged, inspected or replaced as necessary.

 
Stove Fires

A small fire in your kitchen should be able to be handled by all. Suffocate the fire by putting a lid on the pan, turning the stove off and letting the pan sit unmoved until the flames are smothered. Extinguish small grease fires by putting baking soda on them, but do not ever use water.
SERVPRO of West Tampa can come in and help you clean up your Tampa home after the fire. We have trained professionals that are certified.

Call SERVPRO as soon as any fire is out so that they can clean up damages and prevent any further damage from happening.

 
SERVPRO of West Tampa is available to help you clean up fire damage at any time. We know how important it is to act quickly, so the sooner you call us at (813) 855-0888, the sooner we can stop further damage from soot and smoke.

Hiring A Professional Team In Tampa For Fire Damage

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

If you have fire damage to your home or business contact SERVPRO of West Tampa at (813) 855-0888 today.

Every homeowner experiences property damages at some point during their lives. These can vary in scope and frequency, but one cause is a fire. Minor fires usually start in the kitchen but can be contained relatively quickly.

Smoke, which is released as materials burn, can travel through the home, depositing soot and producing an unpleasant odor. Equally damaging can be water used in fire fighting procedure which can set soot into fabrics, carpets or wallpaper.

Working to restore fire damage in Tampa properties is a professional job. Different types of soot deposit need to be given individual attention as some methods may result in a spreading effect and further damages. Agitative cleaning methods are useful but often hidden smoke deposits can leave behind thick odors that are much harder to get rid of without professional equipment.

SERVPRO can send local technicians with IICRC certificates in smoke & odor control. Extensive training helps to locate the sources of odor which can often reside in upper cavities or your ventilation systems. At the beginning of service, a technician conducts a pre-test to discover different types of smoke damage as well as any areas where soot may be residing hidden to the naked eye. 

Removing the source of an odor, rather than masking it with air-freshener, is part of getting your home back to its preloss condition. Removal of the source should remove the majority of odors. However, some stubborn odors can remain behind. SERVPRO can deploy air scrubber. Although traditionally used to remove airborne particles, this equipment can also help to eliminate odor by filtering out gases using several layers.

Another way SERVPRO can tackle smoke odor is through thermal fogging. Thermal foggers vaporize solvent-based deodorants which are similar to the soot itself. Although safety equipment must be worn during deodorization, this method is much safer to use in a home because the fog dissipates quickly. The solvent used inside a thermal fogger is a pairing agent which bonds with odor-causing particles causing them to drop to the floor where they can then be cleared away.

Are you struggling to deal with soot and smoke odors? Contact SERVPRO of West Tampa at (813) 855-0888 today.

Dependable Restoration Services In Tampa

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

You can restore your Tampa property to preloss conditions if you bring in the right team

Tampa Residential Fires 

In homes, an out of control fire is always only a few seconds away. It might sound like a grim outlook, but considering the wide variety of likely ignition sources present in the home, it is a reality that people have to accept. Some likely sources include cooking equipment, faulty electrical wiring, candles, barbecues and even habits such as smoking in the bedroom. Most fires can be traced back to negligence so exercising proper care can keep them at bay. However, when they do occur, you can restore your Tampa property to preloss conditions if you bring in the right team.

Speed is an integral part of recovery efforts after fire damage in Tampa. The materials that burn in the fire form different types of residues that settle all over the property. Some of these might corrode or fuse into the surfaces where they settle causing additional damages.

Surfaces made of aluminum, porcelain, marble or brass are easily damaged this way. Fabrics such as draperies or upholstery can also form permanent stains if residue that settles on them is left unattended for long. Our SERVPRO technicians can evaluate the loss environment to determine which areas should be addressed first to avert further damages.

The damages caused by fires fall into different categories based on whether heat, smoke or flames cause them. Looking through what is left, you might be tempted to clear everything out and send it to the landfill. However, some of the contents appearing damaged entirely might be salvageable through cleaning or other restorative procedures. Our SERVPRO team helps you save such items thus reducing the overall recovery costs. We separate items into groups of salvageable, unsalvageable and questionable items immediately after starting the restoration process.

Apart from dealing with the contents, the affected area also requires deep cleaning to get rid of soot and other smoke debris. The heat from the blaze might also cause discoloration of surfaces such as walls. Cleaning helps restore the visual appeal of the affected area, and also remove any lingering bad odors. By applying professional cleaning agents, and mechanically agitating the affected areas, our SERVPRO technicians deal with effects of the fire “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of West Tampa provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

24-Hour Emergency Service

Faster to Any-Sized Disaster

Highly Trained Restoration Technicians

A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry

Locally Owned and Operated

Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Although fire ruins properties in a matter of minutes, restoration takes considerable effort. Call SERVPRO of West Tampa to assist. You can reach us at (813) 855-0888 any time of the day.

Even A Small Fire Can Leave Behind Odors In Your Home

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Tampa specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire

House Fires In Tampa

Removal of fire odors from your home can prove to be difficult without specialized tools and equipment. There are some steps you can take before SERVPRO arrives. While these processes can help to alleviate some common problems and aid in future restoration efforts, they are only a temporary fix and should not be relied on long-term. Call SERVPRO of West Tampa (813) 855-0888.

Odor Masking Products

Air fresheners and other masking products may not be able to remove fire odors from Tampa homes, but they can reduce the effect they cause on guests and occupants. Most types of smoke produce highly pungent odors that are not easily masked, meaning that anything you do with everyday household supplies should be layered on thick and cover a wide area. Unfortunately, maintaining coverage over the sort of broad sections of your home that are impacted by a fire may take too much time and resources to be effective in the long term, and on top of this, your home may smell and feel unnatural with so many chemicals in the air.

Our most important advice is to call us immediately, make sure the HVAC system is turned off, and wait for our arrival.

Removal of Materials

Removing fabric and wood objects from the area with smoke odors can drastically decrease how strong the smells are. Smoke particles collect quickly in porous materials, but by removing them entirely, you can make the area smell and look cleaner. Be forewarned not to track soot and debris to clean areas or items within the structure. However, this is only a temporary solution, and if you want to restore these materials, you likely need a qualified restoration company like SERVPRO.

Controlling Air Conditioning

If your air conditioning system allows you to cut off circulation to the smoke-damaged area, doing so can help to keep odors contained to that room. This may not be practical or possible depending on how your home is designed and built. Removing airborne particulates is only one facet of fire and smoke damage cleanup and restoration. 

SERVPRO of West Tampa specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO of West Tampa provides permanent solutions for smoke odors in your home at affordable rates and flexible times. Call us at (813) 855-0888 to find out more about our services.

Fire Prevention Tips From Tampa Fire Rescue

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

If you do have a fire in your home or business call SERVPRO of West Tampa (813) 855-0888 for help after the fire is out.

On The Job Since 1895 Tampa Fire Rescue Knows Something About What Causes Fires

Tampa Fire Rescue responded to more than 72,000 alarms last year from 22 stations located throughout the 128 square miles of the city.
Here are some of the ways Tampa Fire Rescue recommends you can do to prevent a fire.

Preventing Fires

Smoke Detectors

Place smoke detectors near bedrooms and on every floor.

Test the batteries monthly & replace them at least twice a year.

WHEN YOU CHANGE YOUR CLOCK, CHANGE THE BATTERY IN YOUR SMOKE DETECTOR

Place smoke detectors at least 4 to 6 inches away from corners.

Kitchen Fire Safety

Never leave cooking unattended.

Keep lose fitting clothing away from burners.

Keep cooking area clean and free of grease build up.

Keep items away from the stove that could catch fire, such as paper towels, cereal boxes, and dish towels.

Remember to turn stove off and unplug small appliances before leaving your home.

Alternative Heaters

Use heaters only in well ventilated areas.

Place heaters where they will not be knocked over easily.

Keep blankets, clothing, curtains, furniture and anything that could get hot and catch fire away from portable heaters.

Plug heaters directly into the wall socket and unplug them when they are not in use.

Wood Stoves And Fire Places

Always use a protective screen.

Clean interiors, hearths, and chimneys annually.

Never leave children unattended around any heating source!

Children And Fire Safety

Teach children that fire fighters are their friends, and will help them in a fire emergency.

Keep matches and lighters away from children.
Make sure children know how to call for emergency assistance.

Teach children how to " Stop, Drop and Roll" if their clothes catch on fire.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

If you do have a fire in your home or business call SERVPRO of West Tampa (813) 855-0888 for help after the fire is out.

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.

SERVPRO of West Tampa specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event.

Training Makes A Difference

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Tampa Home Fires, It's Important Who Goes In When First Responders Leave

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Trust in our SERVPRO of West Tampa restoration professionals (813) 855-0888.

The Fire Is Out, But Is It Safe To Go In Your Tampa Home?

Assessing the structural integrity and needed repairs to your Tampa home following a fire is something that you should let the professionals handle. Especially with widespread damages, the weakening of structural elements becomes an inevitability that you cannot and should not ignore.

While it is important to you to understand the full scope of the damage that your property faces and what has to happen to correct this damage, you should be better informed about potential risks associated with your own assessments.

Once the fire has gotten extinguished in your Tampa residence, homeowners quickly want to understand the farthest reaches of the fire damages they face. While this is often something for restoration teams and insurance adjusters to work on determining, homeowners often rush into the structure to see the issues for themselves firsthand.

Our SERVPRO professionals are trained to identify structural concerns and potential hazards when assessing a job, and even with this knowledge often find themselves at risk for falling construction materials and weakened flooring. These are the same risks that you take on when you set out to determine how much the fire has affected your home.

Ultimately, the fire itself and the water used to extinguish it can cause untold amounts of stress to wood framing, drywall, flooring materials, and ceiling framework. As these components weaken with the lingering damage yet to get addressed by our SERVPRO restoration specialists, the risk for them giving way and falling (or allowing someone to fall through them) is higher than you might expect.

Fire Situations Differ

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.

This possibility is why structural assessment is part of the initial inspection performed by our estimators. They determine what materials require replacement based on the severity of their damages. Those with the highest risks of falling, or giving way, then become part of the estimation for rebuilding and renovation.

Keeping yourself safe does not stop simply because the fire was successfully extinguished in your house. Long after the first responders leave, your home remains at risk to those who enter it. Trust in our SERVPRO of West Tampa restoration professionals to properly determine the stability of your home and what needs to be done to restore it. Give us a call anytime at (813) 855-0888.

Kitchen Fire Aftermath In Tampa

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

A fire in your Tampa home can leave behind different kinds of damage. This is the case for many kitchen fires that affect homes. While the blaze itself might stay contained within this specific area of your house, the damage that occurred while extinguishing efforts were underway might be too considerable to clean and restore.

While it could be simple for you to say that your kitchen requires remodeling after fire damage in your Tampa home, the process of actually getting to that point is not always so streamlined. There are several steps in between the damage from the fire and renovations and remodeling.

The experienced SERVPRO of West Tampa professionals can help you through every part of this process to help you repair, restore, and ultimately remodel your home’s kitchen. We will work to make your space better than new.

From the moment that our technicians arrive at your home following the fire, our initial assessment of the damage helps to determine what can get restored with our expertise and equipment.

You might find that your kitchen area, where the bulk of the fire occurred, is not a complete loss. This process also gives our SERVPRO of West Tampa team a starting point for cleanup and restoration, as we work to preserve and salvage any part of your kitchen that is not completely damaged.

The restoration process combines a lot of the state of the art equipment that we have at our disposal to clean up the smoke/soot damage, to deodorize the area of the noxious scent left behind after the blaze, and also to address additional concerns like water damage from extinguishment.

Once these processes are underway, our experienced professionals can quickly determine what materials, appliances and structural components of the room cannot get salvaged with our efforts.

In these circumstances, our team utilizes their training in controlled demolition to carefully remove irreparably damaged materials found in flooring, ceilings, walls, cabinetry, or contents of the room for a replacement. This process is intricate and concise, ensuring that areas that can successfully get restored get left intact, and only the pressing concerns get removed.

Sometimes a kitchen fire in your home requires remodeling to reverse the fire damage successfully. If you are facing severe damage to this or any area of your home following a fire, contact SERVPRO of West Tampa. You can reach our emergency response team anytime by calling (813) 855-0888.

Taking Care Of Fire Damage In Tampa

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to minimize the interruption to your life and help you rebuild after the disaster.

Microwaves, similar to other appliances in your Tampa kitchen, can start a fire when the wrong types of items are put in the microwave, food overheats, routine maintenance and cleaning has not been performed, or when wiring is faulty.

Since radiation is used in microwaves to heat food items, it is essential that you follow the directions from the manufacturer when using them, and do not try to heat anything that is not microwave safe. Such things include tin foil, metal objects, or recycled paper.

Performing routine maintenance and cleaning can help you avoid any issues, including fire damage to your Tampa kitchen and home. However, if something does happen, you have a mess on your hands that needs a fast response and the knowledge of professionals to get it done right.

Trained, Certified Response

SERVPRO of West Tampa technicians not only have the training to clean up fire damage, but also the right tools to do it in a timely fashion to avoid further damage.

Cleaning procedures for walls and ceilings after a fire address several different surfaces. Whether they have a finish or not on wood or paneling, painted, acoustic tile, sprayed-on acoustic plaster, stipple, metallic tile, or textured plaster makes a difference in how we approach the cleanup.

Before SERVPRO of West Tampa technicians begin, we must identify the walls and ceilings affected and pretest them for cleanability. Factors which help us determine the best method of cleaning are the kind of surface, the kind of soil, and whether the surface is dry or wet cleanable.

We use a dry cleaning sponge for walls and ceilings of all types with light to medium soiling which is non-grease-based. The sponge also can be used to pre-clean excess soils that are non-grease-based before wet cleaning.

Wet cleaning is performed on metal, painted, or wood that has heavy soot or ash residue, or light to heavy oil-based residues.

We use active peroxide cleaning for acoustical ceilings or other nonporous and porous surfaces, especially with heavy nicotine and tar soiling. Textured ceilings with a blown coating can dissolve if we treat them with wet cleaning procedures that are more aggressive, so instead, the active peroxide cleaning is used.

Dedicated

SERVPRO of West Tampa is dedicated to cleaning your home in Town n Country, Rocky Point, or West Tampa thoroughly after fire damage. We know what methods to use on each surface to protect your home and belongings and get everything safe again for you when you call us at (813) 855-0880.

If Fire Has Damaged Your Tampa Business Call The Experts Today

5/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help manage the insurance paperwork and process. Call us at (813) 855-0888

Getting Back To Work After A Fire In Your Tampa Business

Fire damage in your Tampa business can lead to permanent or prolonged setbacks if you do not take decisive action. Though your insurance provider may offer some compensation after the incident, a fire can leave a big dent in your business.

If there is a fire at your commercial location in Tampa, you need restoration services immediately.

Most people forget that commercial fire damage incidents in Tampa have a close relationship with water damage - which usually results from the fire extinguishing efforts. We are referring to the liquids that equipment like fire sprinklers dispense when attempting to put off the flames. On top of that, the pipes might burst and lead to additional water on your property. That means apart from cleaning the soot particles, water removal services are also necessary. Our SERVPRO of West Tampa team has specialized equipment and tools to address such challenges.
 
When our SERVPRO of West Tampa technicians respond to a fire and smoke damage event, one of the tasks we do is to investigate the specific cause and then device appropriate techniques to address all the needs. Securing the structure is the other thing we do, and during that step, we work towards protecting the occupants and our team.

We inspect whether the ceilings, wooden floors, and walls are strong enough for the restoration to proceed. If not, we may perform minor demolitions where necessary. Whether your home or business is located in Tampa, Town n Country or Rocky Point you can rest assured we are faster to any size disaster.

 
Our SERVPRO technicians also clean the smoke residues, and this procedure typically starts from the source.

The type of smoke residues on your property as well as the surface they are resting on usually help us to select a cleaning method. We understand the elements of cleaning such as temperature, time, chemical action and agitation - which are helpful when suspending and removing the residues. For instance, if we go for a chemical reaction, we understand the heat can increase the speed of such processes; therefore, we choose the most appropriate temperature to boost the effectiveness of the detergent we are using.

SERVPRO of West Tampa is dedicated to responding immediately, which helps to prevent secondary damage and to reduce the cost of restoration.
 
At SERVPRO of West Tampa, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster be it storm, water, mold, and fire related. Call us at (813) 855-0888 when you need restoration services for your business.

Restoring A Hotel After A Fire Is A Job For Experts

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

In Tampa damaging storms and hurricanes are usually in the spotlight, but there are other disasters that can be a major problem for area businesses. Kitchen and other types of fires still close hotels and other businesses at a time when it's most important from them to be up and running at capacity. Remediating Tampa hotel fire damage is not a quick task, and should only be handled by trained, certified technicians. The only way to remove debris quickly, clean smoke odors, and restore a hotel to its original condition is to accomplish it right. SERVPRO of West Tampa starts at the highest point of the damage and works our way down to the ground floor so other members of the restoration team can start working while we get rid of drywall, furniture, and other ruined property. Restoration starts with water removal. Standing water is not usually a concern, so we go directly to extraction wands to pull water out of hallway and room carpets. Since commercial grade carpet has a short nape, we can complete each floor in roughly 1 or 2 days. Once the water is drawn out, SERVPRO technicians set up fans at the ends of the corridors to bring in warmer air from the outside to finish drying the carpets and lower the humidity. For each room, we open the windows and use air movers if needed to raise the temperature and increase air circulation.As we remove water, other technicians use spray wands to apply commercial cleaners to support structures, furniture, and other surfaces to remove smoke and soot residues. If we suspect there may be a problem with mold, team members also spray anti-microbial agents where there may be a problem. With odors and mold taken care of, we move on to replacement. Our teams have decades of experience in hanging new ceilings and installing new drywall. Setting up a new room takes us an afternoon, and with a full crew at work, we can complete an entire floor in less than a week.Cleaning does not stop at only the hotel building. We maintain commercial washers and dryers to accommodate hundreds of bed linens, napkins, tablecloths, and towels. We have detergents designed to remove soot and odors without damaging the items. We understand the need to reopen a hotel as quickly as possible. We have the experience to get the job accomplished correctly and quickly without compromising either one. If you need our help, contact SERVPRO of West Tampa today at (813) 855-0888.

3 Grill Safety Tips | SERVPRO of West Tampa

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

House Fire Due to Uncleaned Grill

Tips to Make Your Grill Safe | SERVPRO of West Tampa

Backyard cookouts are a fun tradition and grill cleaning should be an essential task to prevent fires.

Grilling season is here in Tampa, Fl and proper grill maintenance is often key to preventing a grease fire. Grill cleaning can be an important safety measure, so here are some tips to keep your grill in top shape.

1. Understand Grill Maintenance Basics

There are usually several steps to cleaning your grill after use that apply no matter what type of grill you have. First, cook off food debris by heating the grill for 15 minutes. Once cooled, scrub the grates with a long-handled wire brush, though balled up aluminum foil may work in a pinch. Wipe vegetable oil on the grates with paper towels to prevent rust and food accumulation. Finally, clean the inside of the grill with dish soap and warm water.

2. Take Extra Precautions, Pre and Post Season

Besides grill cleaning after each use, there are a few things you should do each year before you grill for the first time and at the end of the season. One of them is to get a new wire brush each year. Be sure to clean the inside and outside of your grill with dish soap and water and use a grill cover when you store it.

3. Clean Gas and Charcoal Grills Properly

Gas grills have heat deflectors over the burners that should be cleaned with other removable grill parts. The burners can be removed to clean the gas ports. Blocked gas ports can affect the efficiency of your grill.

Charcoal grills are often a bit simpler with regards to cleaning. After each use, remove the briquettes and brush out the ash. Otherwise, clean it with dish soap and warm water like you would clean a gas grill.

Enjoy grilling out knowing that your grill is clean and safe. If you have damage that has occurred due to a fire emergency SERVPRO of West Tampa is here to help.  

Lighter Used As Toy Causes Tampa Hotel Fire

4/16/2017 (Permalink)

Your guests deserve a room without damage and having a pleasant smell. Call SERVPRO after a fire damage event to achieve those goals.

SERVPRO's Quick Response and Fire Damage Action Plan can Limit Areas Which Need to be Closed After a Fire

Fire in a hotel room or common area is a serious business. Guests are at risk as well as the staff and any firefighters who come to the rescue. Alarms and sprinkler systems save lives, but the hotel halls, rooms, and common areas suffer significant damage. SERVPRO has the staff and equipment to restore a hotel to preloss condition fast, and is always the answer to a hotel owner’s query, “Which disaster recovery team near me can handle fire and water damage with ease?”
 
When family members fail to supervise, youngsters make some dangerous decisions. A lighter tucked into an adult’s suitcase but discovered by a bored young man is first a source of amusement and then the instrument of disaster. Pages of a book began to blaze -- the beginning of serious hotel fire damage. The rush is on to vacate the Tampa lodging as emergency crews arrive. Sprinklers spray water which saturates carpeting, floors, and walls to snuff out the fire. Our crews follow the firefighters, with their hoses and extinguishers, ready to pick up the pieces and restore the hotel for future guests.
 
Closing down the entire hotel is a grim prospect, but SERVPRO works with local officials and the owner and management of the hotel to limit the closure to just the areas with fire and water damage. If we are on site as soon as the fire marshal allows recovery to begin, we make every effort to confine the damage to the smallest area possible. Our crew manages multiple tasks. Some work on cleaning away soot and other fire debris in and around the room affected. Others operate professional grade water extractors remove to moisture quickly. Powerful air movers continue the drying process as other staff investigates for hidden moisture and smoke or soot.
 
Hotel guests pay for fresh smelling and clean rooms, so SERVPRO evaluates all areas of the hotel for smoky odors. While our technicians work to restore the rooms with heavy fire damage, including smoke and soot, an air scrubber can help filter the unpleasant odors as items are cleaned or bagged for disposal. Once all the cleaning and drying succeeds, our deodorization specialists move through the hotel treating areas for that lingering smell. We use the methods to eliminate odors that match how the smells occurred, including thermal fogging and ozone treatments for persistent aromas.
 
SERVPRO of West Tampa is ready for a fast response when hotel guests evacuate because of an accidental fire. A call to (813) 855-0888 brings a full-service fire and water damage team to the rescue.