The dangers of space heaters and how to use them safely

12/11/2024 (Permalink)

Remember, for professional fire damage restoration or assistance after an incident, SERVPRO® of Longmont and Firestone is always ready to help.

As the temperatures drop in Longmont and Firestone, many residents turn to space heaters for quick and easy warmth. While space heaters can be incredibly convenient, they also pose significant fire hazards if not used properly. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters are responsible for 43% of home heating fires and 85% of associated deaths. It’s essential to understand the risks and follow expert advice to ensure your space heater keeps you warm without putting your home in danger.

Understanding the Dangers of Space Heaters

Space heaters, although small and portable, can cause massive fires if left unattended or misused. One of the biggest risks is placing them too close to flammable materials such as furniture, curtains, or bedding. Overloaded circuits from plugging space heaters into extension cords or power strips can also lead to dangerous electrical fires.

Furthermore, older or malfunctioning heaters are more likely to overheat, causing internal fires that may spread rapidly. These risks highlight why taking precautions is so important when using space heaters in your home.

Tips for Safe Space Heater Use

To minimize the risks associated with space heaters, follow these safety tips from fire safety experts:

• Keep a 3-foot clearance around the heater: Ensure the heater is at least three feet away from anything that could catch fire, like paper, curtains, or furniture.
• Use the heater on a flat, hard surface: Always place the space heater on the floor, not on tables or furniture where it could easily tip over.
• Never leave it unattended: Turn off and unplug the heater when you leave the room or go to bed.
• Use heaters with automatic shutoff: Look for models that shut off automatically if they overheat or tip over.
• Plug it directly into a wall outlet: Avoid using extension cords or power strips, which can increase the risk of electrical fires.

Choose the Right Space Heater

When shopping for a space heater, look for models that meet the latest safety standards. The Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or Intertek (ETL) certifications indicate that the heater has been tested for safety. Also, consider heaters with built-in features like automatic shutoff or temperature controls to minimize risk.

Final Thoughts

Space heaters can be a practical heating solution, but only if used safely. By following these safety guidelines, you can reduce the risk of fire in your Longmont or Firestone home while enjoying a cozy winter. Remember, for professional fire damage restoration or assistance after an incident, SERVPRO® of Longmont and Firestone is always ready to help.

For more information on space heater safety, visit the National Fire Protection Association.

Stay Safe This Season: Essential Home Fire Prevention Tips for Fall and Winter

8/14/2024 (Permalink)

Here are some essential home fire prevention tips to keep your family safe this season.

As the temperatures drop and we cozy up indoors, the risk of home fires increases. The fall and winter months bring unique fire hazards, from heating equipment to holiday decorations. For residents of Longmont, CO, taking proactive steps to prevent fires is crucial. Here are some essential home fire prevention tips to keep your family safe this season.

Maintain Heating Equipment

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Heating equipment, such as furnaces, fireplaces, and space heaters, is a leading cause of home fires in the colder months. Ensure all heating equipment is inspected and maintained regularly by a professional. Clean chimneys and flues to prevent the buildup of flammable creosote.

Safe Use of Space Heaters

If you use space heaters, make sure they are placed on a flat, stable surface and at least three feet away from flammable materials like curtains, bedding, and furniture. Always turn off space heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.

Use Fireplaces Safely

Proper Fireplace Practices

Before lighting a fire, ensure your fireplace and chimney are clean and in good condition. Use a screen to prevent sparks from escaping and never leave a fire unattended. Dispose of the ashes in a metal container and store them away from your home.

Avoid Overloading Electrical Outlets

With the holiday season comes an increased use of electrical decorations. Avoid overloading outlets and use surge protectors to prevent electrical fires. Inspect lights and cords for damage before use, and replace any frayed or worn items.

Kitchen Safety

Stay Vigilant While Cooking

The kitchen is another common area where fires can start. Never leave cooking unattended, especially when using the stove or oven. Keep flammable items like towels, potholders, and paper products away from heat sources.

Install and Test Smoke Alarms

Ensure smoke alarms are installed in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every level of your home. Test alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year. Smoke alarms provide early warning, giving you more time to escape in the event of a fire.

Plan for Emergencies

Develop and Practice an Escape Plan

Create a fire escape plan that includes two ways out of every room and a designated meeting spot outside your home. Practice this plan regularly with all family members to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of a fire.

SERVPRO®: Your Fire Safety Partner

SERVPRO is dedicated to helping you keep your home safe from fire hazards. Our team offers expert fire damage restoration services and valuable advice on fire prevention. Contact us for more information on how we can assist in making your home safer this fall and winter.

By following these fire prevention tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of a fire in your home during the colder months. Stay vigilant, maintain your heating equipment, use electrical devices safely, and be prepared with a solid fire escape plan. Taking these precautions will help ensure a safe and cozy season for you and your loved ones.

Igniting Safety: Home Fire Prevention Tips for Spring and Summer

4/4/2024 (Permalink)

As the temperatures rise and nature awakens, spring and summer bring about a vibrant transformation in our surroundings. While enjoying the warmth and beauty of these seasons, it's crucial to prioritize home fire prevention. In this blog, we'll explore essential tips to safeguard your home during the spring and summer months, reducing the risk of fires and ensuring a safe and enjoyable season.

Grill Safety

Grilling is a popular activity during warm months. Ensure your grill is placed at a safe distance from the house, deck railings, and overhanging branches.

Regularly clean the grill to prevent the buildup of grease, reducing the risk of flare-ups.

Electrical Safety

Inspect outdoor electrical outlets for any signs of damage or wear. Replace damaged outlets promptly. Be cautious with the use of extension cords outdoors, and ensure they are rated for outdoor use. If using outdoor cooking appliances, such as turkey fryers, follow manufacturer instructions carefully. Keep a safe distance between the cooking area and your home, and never leave outdoor cooking unattended.

Clear Debris

Spring and summer can bring about an abundance of dry leaves, twigs, and other debris. Regularly clear these from your yard to reduce potential fuel for fires. Keep your lawn well-watered and mowed. Dry, overgrown grass can quickly become fuel for fires. When disposing of yard waste, follow local regulations and guidelines. Avoid burning yard waste in areas where it's prohibited.

Fire-Resistant Landscaping

Choose fire-resistant plants for landscaping. These plants are less likely to ignite and can act as a buffer around your home. If you have a fireplace or fire pit, store firewood at a safe distance from your home. Keep it in a dry area to prevent mold and insects. If you have a fireplace, schedule a professional chimney inspection and cleaning before the start of the spring and summer seasons. If you have a chimney, consider installing spark arresters to prevent sparks from escaping and igniting nearby vegetation.

Be Mindful of Fireworks

If fireworks are legal in your area, follow safety guidelines. Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby, and never relight duds. Properly store flammable products such as gasoline and propane in approved containers and in well-ventilated areas away from the home. Develop and review an emergency evacuation plan with all members of your household. Practice it regularly so that everyone knows what to do in case of a fire.

Spring and summer are seasons of joy and outdoor activities, but it's crucial to balance the excitement with a commitment to safety. By following these home fire prevention tips, you can create a secure environment for your family, allowing everyone to embrace the beauty and warmth of the season without unnecessary risks. Ignite safety practices in your home, and enjoy a worry-free spring and summer.

The Importance of Fire Alarm Systems in Commercial Buildings: Protecting Lives and Property

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

Fire alarm systems play a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of occupants in commercial buildings. In this blog, we will explore the significance of these systems and shed light on the essential reasons why every commercial building should have a reliable fire alarm system in place.

Early Detection and Prompt Response 

A fire alarm system is designed to detect signs of fire at the earliest stages, providing an early warning to occupants. The ability to alert employees, customers, and visitors immediately is vital in facilitating a swift evacuation and enabling a timely response from emergency services. Early detection significantly reduces the risk of injuries and casualties, as well as minimizing property damage.

Protection of Lives and Property

The most critical aspect of having a fire alarm system in place is its ability to protect lives and property. A well-functioning system ensures that people are alerted to the presence of a fire, giving them the best chance of escaping harm. Additionally, it enables firefighters to respond promptly and effectively, minimizing the potential devastation to the building and its contents.

Compliance with Regulations and Codes

Commercial buildings are subject to strict fire safety regulations and building codes. Installing a fire alarm system is often a legal requirement that businesses must adhere to. Compliance with these regulations not only ensures the safety of occupants but also protects businesses from potential liabilities and penalties.

Integration with Fire Suppression Systems

Fire alarm systems can be integrated with fire suppression systems, such as sprinklers or gas suppression systems. This integration ensures a comprehensive fire safety strategy, where the fire alarm system detects the fire and signals the suppression system to activate. By working together, these systems can swiftly contain and extinguish a fire, limiting its spread and minimizing the damage caused.

Peace of Mind

Having a fire alarm system in place not only provides physical protection but also offers peace of mind to building occupants and employees. Knowing that there is a reliable system in place that will promptly alert them in case of a fire creates a sense of security and confidence. This peace of mind can lead to increased morale and productivity in the workplace, as employees feel assured that their safety is a top priority. 

A reliable fire alarm system is an essential component of any commercial building's fire safety plan. It provides early detection, prompt response, and protects lives and property. Compliance with regulations and integration with fire suppression systems further enhance the effectiveness of these systems, ensuring the safety and well-being of all occupants. Occupants can go about their daily activities with the knowledge that they are protected by a well-designed and maintained fire alarm system, creating a safer and more comfortable environment for everyone.

How to Safely Remove Dryer Lint from the Exhaust: A Step-by-Step Guide

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

Dryer lint buildup in the exhaust system can pose a serious fire hazard. Regular maintenance, including removing lint from the exhaust, is crucial to keep your dryer running efficiently and to prevent potential safety risks. In this blog post, we'll provide you with a detailed step-by-step guide on how to safely remove dryer lint from the exhaust and keep your home safe.

Before you start, make sure to turn off the dryer and unplug it from the power source. Safety should always be your top priority when performing any maintenance tasks on your appliances.

Locate the Dryer Exhaust Vent

Locate the dryer exhaust vent, which is typically located on the outside of your home or building. It's usually a small flap or louvered cover. Clear away any obstructions, such as plants or debris, to ensure proper airflow.

Remove the Vent Cover

Carefully remove the vent cover by using a screwdriver or releasing any clips holding it in place. Set the cover aside in a safe place where it won't get lost.

Clean the Exhaust Duct

Using a vent cleaning brush or a vacuum cleaner with a long attachment hose, gently clean the inside of the exhaust duct. Insert the brush or hose as far as you can reach and move it back and forth to loosen and remove the lint. Be thorough, as lint can accumulate throughout the length of the duct.

Check for Blockages

While cleaning the exhaust duct, keep an eye out for any blockages or buildup that may impede proper airflow. Clear away any clogs or debris using the brush or vacuum. Remember to handle the components with care to avoid damaging them or dislodging any connections.

Clean the Vent Cover

With the duct cleaned, take the opportunity to clean the vent cover as well. Use a brush or cloth to remove any lint or debris that may have accumulated on the surface. Ensure that the flaps or louvers can move freely to allow proper ventilation.

Reassemble and Test

Once you've finished cleaning the vent cover and exhaust duct, carefully reattach the vent cover using screws or clips. Ensure that it's securely in place. Plug the dryer back in, turn it on, and run a test cycle to ensure that everything is working correctly. Monitor the dryer during the cycle to ensure sufficient airflow.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

To prevent future lint buildup and reduce the risk of fire, it's essential to schedule regular maintenance for your dryer exhaust system. Aim to clean the exhaust duct at least once a year, or more frequently if you notice excessive lint accumulation or decreased drying performance. Consider setting reminders or scheduling professional maintenance to stay on top of this crucial task.

By following these steps and establishing a regular maintenance routine, you can effectively remove and prevent lint buildup in your dryer exhaust. Keeping your exhaust system clean and free from obstructions will promote optimal performance, energy efficiency, and most importantly, keep your home safe from potential fire hazards. Remember, when it comes to dryer safety, a little prevention goes a long way.

Securing Your Building After a Fire: Tips and Strategies for Safety and Peace of Mind

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

Fire safety is a serious concern for everyone, and the dangers of fire are well-documented. If you have ever been in a building that has caught fire, you know how frightening it can be. In addition to the obvious threat of injury or death from burning wood or other materials, smoke inhalation can also be deadly if not treated quickly enough by trained professionals.

To help keep your building secure after a fire has occurred, it's important to understand why fires happen in the first place--and then take steps to prevent them from happening again!

Immediate Steps After a Fire

After a fire, it's important to take immediate steps to secure your building.

• Call the fire department.
• Contact your insurance company and let them know what happened so they can send out their adjuster right away.
• Contact a reputable fire damage restoration service that can begin cleaning up and drying out your building as soon as possible (and before mold starts growing).

Assessing the Damage

Once the fire is out and you have a chance to assess the damage, there are several things to look for. Inspect the building for structural damage: If you can see that your building has been damaged by water or smoke, it's important to call in an expert right away. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that mold will grow and cause further damage.

Inspect the building for water damage: Water can cause extensive damage if not removed quickly; however, this process can be tricky because too much moisture can lead to mold growth as well! Make sure that all areas are dried out completely before moving on with repairs or renovations so as not to invite these problems into your space again later down the line (or worse yet--into your home).

Repairing the Damage

Hire a fire damage restoration company. A professional company will be able to assess the damage and offer advice on how to repair it, as well as provide any necessary equipment or materials.

Replace damaged building materials such as carpeting, drywall, insulation and wood floors. Repair any electrical or plumbing systems that were damaged by smoke or water during the firefighting process (or both).

Preventing Future Fires

Smoke detectors. These are the most basic and important fire-prevention tools you can have in your building. They're also relatively inexpensive, so there's no excuse not to have them installed! Check them regularly (at least once a month) and replace batteries when necessary.

Fire extinguishers. You should have at least one fire extinguisher on every floor of your building, preferably near exits or other areas where fires could start easily (like kitchens). Make sure everyone knows how to use them correctly--and make sure they know where they are!

Protecting Against Vandalism

Install security cameras. If you have a large building, it's a good idea to install security cameras. This will help deter vandalism and other crimes in your building.

Install motion-activated lights. Motion-activated lights are another way to deter crime in your building, especially if they are placed around entrances and exits where people may try to break in or steal something from your store or office space.

Protecting Against Theft

Install locks on all doors and windows. Consider using a safe to store valuable items, like passports, jewelry and cash. Install an alarm system in your building if you can't install other security measures (such as cameras) or if it's too expensive to do so.

Protecting Against Natural Disasters

Secure the building's roof. Roofs can be weakened by fire, wind, or water damage. If you are able to repair or replace your roof after a fire, make sure to use materials that are rated for high winds and other natural disasters.

Reinforce the building's foundation. Make sure there are no cracks in the walls or floors of your structure that could allow water to seep in during heavy rains or flooding events; if necessary, install flood barriers around doors and windows so they don't get damaged when water flows over them during storms (or floods).

Consider installing storm shutters on windows that face east-west--these will help protect against strong winds blowing through open windows during hurricanes/tropical storms!

How to Effectively Stop a Grease Fire From Spreading

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

What Can Be Done To Prevent A Grease Fire From Spreading?

It’s something most people don’t expect to experience, but a grease fire is a dangerous situation that can happen to anyone, including experienced cooks. If you ever end up dealing with the unfortunate situation of having this type of fire in your home in Erie, CO, there are three steps you should follow to effectively stop it from spreading any further.


1. Cover your pot with a metal lid. If the grease fire is just starting inside a pot or pan on the stove, you may have time to put a stop to it before it spreads to the other burners and to other areas of your home. Grab a metal lid belonging to one of the pots or pans you’re using and quickly place it on top of the pot.


2. Turn the stove burners off. After you’ve covered the pot with a metal lid, make sure to turn the burners off. If you leave the burners on, the pot will continue to stay hot, and that may cause the fire to spread out of control. The goal is to shut everything off before it has any time to spread throughout the home.


3. Call for help to keep the fire from spreading. If covering the pot with a metal lid and turning the burners off hasn’t helped and you can see the grease fire spreading to other areas of the stove, call for help. You shouldn’t waste any time contacting firefighters.


Any fire is dangerous, but one caused by grease can spread quickly. Knowing how to protect yourself if you’re ever in that situation in Erie, CO, is important for your safety as well as the overall protection of your home. You must act quickly to cover the pot, turn the stove off, and call for help to keep the fire from spreading out of control and causing serious damage.

Can Items Be Saved After a Fire?

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

If your business suffers from a fire loss, give our SERVPRO team a call. We have the experience and equipment needed to restore your business.

Is It Possible To Save Items After A Fire?

One of the hardest things about experiencing a fire in Longmont, CO can be the loss of personal belongings. Walls and floors can be repaired, a roof replaced and plumbing and electrical redone. The contents of the building, however, can have meaning and personal attachment that makes them difficult to do without. Dry-cleaning and other techniques can be used to save many items.

What Methods are Used to Clean Contents?

There are several methods that can be effective depending on the material the items are made up of. Here are a few of the favored content cleaning choices:

• Dry-cleaning — For clothing and draperies and fabrics with soot stains
• Laundering – For other fabric items not contaminated with soot
• Cleaning with detergent – metal and hard surfaces
• Shampooing – Carpet my possibly be cleaned this way if the damage is only from smoke
• Ultrasonic treatment – This method works well for many non-porous materials

Cleaning and Storage

The first two options are best for cleaning smoke and odors from clothing and fabric items that suffered soot stains in the fire. You may also be able to save draperies, sheets and bedding and bathroom linens this way.

A soapy wash with an anti-bacterial detergent may help save some of your washable items like dishes, glassware, and surfaces like laminate or tile. For non-porous items, a dip in an ultrasonic unit can loosen and break up soot and smoke residue. They should be thoroughly cleaned to remove stains and odors.

Content cleaning is a particular process best handled by fire restoration professionals. Using the wrong method can cause permanent damage. Professionals in Longmont, CO know what works best to salvage anything possible. In some cases, cleaned items may be put into content storage to protect them from becoming contaminated until restoration is complete.

If a fire disaster happens, get help that understands the way dry-cleaning and other methods can help save your content. They can help make it “Like it never even happened.”

How Does Ozone Treatment Remove Cigarette Smoke Odor?

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

What Is The Process By Which Ozone Treatment removes Cigarette Smoke odor?

Even after quitting smoking, the odors from this noxious practice may linger. A professional air-purifying service can apply ozone home deodorization treatments to remove all traces of cigarette smoke from your home in Longmont, CO.

What Is Ozone?

When the two atoms comprising a standard oxygen molecule come in contact with ultraviolet sun rays, electrical lightning charges or other naturally occurring gases in the atmosphere, they can be split apart. The separated oxygen atoms gravitate toward intact oxygen molecules and attach to them, forming ozone molecules with three oxygen atoms.

How Does Ozone Eliminate Odors?

Think of ozone's third oxygen atom as a wanderer seeking new opportunities. The same third atom that previously attached to a two-atom oxygen molecule will abandon it in favor of a nearby odor-producing molecule. It binds to the new molecule in a chemical reaction that neutralizes the odor while allowing the molecule it leaves behind to return to its original oxygen form.
Among the reasons for using ozone home deodorization to counter cigarette smoke odor are:

• It reverts to breathable oxygen.
• It does not leave behind any residue.
• It does not involve harsh chemicals.
• It can sterilize the air.

How Does an Ozone Generator Make Ozone?

Ozone generators instigate the oxygen atom-splitting process in one of two ways. The corona discharge method generates a high voltage that passes through a material resistant to electrical currents, resulting in a sustained electric arc that splits the oxygen molecules. The other method involves using wavelengths of ultraviolet light to split oxygen molecules.

Does Treatment Require Evacuation?

Yes! Ozone treatment is relatively quick, usually lasting about 12 hours, depending on your space's square footage. During treatment, and for a few hours following, you should plan to evacuate your home, taking your pets and plants with you. The air in your home will not be breathable until the oxygen molecules revert to their former structure after the treatment ends.

Whether you are dealing with odors from cigarette smoke or a fire, home deodorization can remove smells from your house.

How To Perform First Aid After a Fire

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

How To Provide First Aid In The Event Of A Fire

No place is untouchable from fires. Even established business areas in Longmont, CO, can be at risk. Your workplace should have a plan for building evacuation, as well as a plan for fire damage recovery and restoration. However, you can also prepare yourself by learning how to administer first aid if a coworker has been burned by a fire. Here are the steps you should take if such an event occurs.

1. Prevent Further Injury

If the person is near the source of the fire damage, assess if it is safe to move toward him or her. If it is safe, clear away anything touching the person that may have caused the burn.

2. Examine the Injury

See if the person is still conscious. Check for symptoms of shock such as shallow breathing or paleness. Establish if it is a major burn by looking for these symptoms:

• The burn is either very deep into the skin or at least three inches in length.
  
• The area is a major body part such as the face, hands or feet.
  
• The skin is charred, leathery, or covered with dark-colored patches.

3. Get Help

If the person is in critical condition and cannot be transported to get care, call 911 immediately and explain the person’s condition to the 911 operator. Follow any instructions and stay with the injured person until help comes.

4. Apply Burn First Aid

You can temporarily treat the person’s wound while you wait for help to arrive. If he or she has a major burn, carefully remove items wrapped around the burned area such as jewelry. Keep it clean by applying a clean cloth or bandage. You can also moisten the covering with cool water to alleviate the pain.

Witnessing fire damage at your workplace can be devastating, but being calm and taking care of anyone injured can minimize the most harmful effects of a fire.