Protecting Your Property From Wildfires

6/20/2024 (Permalink)

Essential Tips for Property Owners in High-Risk Areas of Wildfires.

As summer heats up in Southern California, property owners in high-risk wildfire areas must take proactive steps to safeguard their investments. Wildfires pose a significant threat, but with careful planning and maintenance, you can minimize risks and protect your property. Here are essential tips to help you prepare:

1. Create Defensible Space

Defensible space is the buffer you create between a building on your property and the grass, trees, shrubs, or any wildland area that surround it. This space is crucial in slowing or stopping the spread of wildfire and protecting your home from catching fire. Implement the following measures:

• Zone 1 (0-30 feet from buildings): Remove all dead plants, grass, and weeds. Keep tree branches at least 10 feet away from your roof and other trees. Remove or prune flammable plants and shrubs.
• Zone 2 (30-100 feet from buildings): Cut or mow annual grass down to a maximum height of four inches. Create horizontal spacing between shrubs and trees.

2. Use Fire-Resistant Building Materials

When building or renovating, use fire-resistant materials for your roof, siding, decking, and windows. Materials like metal, tile, and brick can withstand high temperatures and resist ignition longer than traditional wood.

3. Maintain Your Property

Regular maintenance can significantly reduce the risk of wildfire damage. This includes:

• Cleaning gutters and roofs to remove leaves, pine needles, and other debris.
• Storing firewood and other combustible materials at least 30 feet away from buildings.
• Keeping lawns hydrated and mowed.

4. Install Fire-Resistant Landscaping

Choose fire-resistant plants and trees that are less likely to ignite. Incorporate rock, mulch, and other non-combustible materials in your landscaping. Use irrigation systems to keep vegetation healthy and hydrated.

5. Prepare an Emergency Plan

Develop and practice an emergency evacuation plan with your family or tenants. Ensure everyone knows multiple routes out of the area and establish a meeting point. Keep emergency supplies, including water, food, and medical kits, easily accessible.

6. Stay Informed

Keep abreast of wildfire risks and weather conditions in your area. Sign up for local emergency alerts and follow updates from reliable sources like Cal Fire and the National Weather Service.

7. Invest in Wildfire Insurance

Standard homeowner’s insurance policies may not cover wildfire damage. Review your policy and consider adding wildfire coverage if necessary. Document your property and possessions to facilitate the claims process if needed.

8. Create a Community Fire Safety Plan

Work with your neighbors to develop a community fire safety plan. This could involve organizing neighborhood clean-up days, creating firebreaks, and sharing resources and information.

9. Use Firefighting Equipment

Equip your property with firefighting tools such as hoses, shovels, rakes, and water tanks. Consider installing a sprinkler system to help protect your property in the event of a fire.

10. Consult Professionals

For expert advice and assistance, consult with fire prevention specialists, landscape architects, and insurance agents, and SERVPRO of Pasadena North. They can provide tailored recommendations and help you implement effective wildfire mitigation strategies.

Wildfires are a formidable natural threat, but with careful preparation and vigilance, you can protect your property and ensure the safety of its occupants. By creating defensible space, using fire-resistant materials, and maintaining your property, you can significantly reduce the risk of wildfire damage.

For expert advice, assistance, and tailored wildfire mitigation strategies, contact us at SERVPRO of Pasadena North. Our team is here to help you stay informed, prepared, and proactive. Reach out to us with your concerns and let us assist you in safeguarding your property during the wildfire season. Stay safe and vigilant this summer!

Fire Damage & Summer BBQs

6/16/2023 (Permalink)

Summer is synonymous with barbecues. These social gatherings bring together friends and family for good food, laughter, and shared memories. However, the flip side to this summer tradition is the risk of fire damage that can occur if a barbecue is not properly managed. 

Uncontrolled BBQ fires can easily escalate, causing significant damage to properties. Improper disposal of hot coal, not maintaining a safe distance from flammable objects, and equipment malfunction are some common causes of such fires.

But, fear not! At SERVPRO of Pasadena North, we are committed to ensuring that your summer barbecues remain a source of joy rather than stress. Alongside providing tips for preventing BBQ-related fires, we are here to offer immediate and comprehensive fire damage restoration services should the need arise.

Remember, always keep your BBQ unit at a safe distance from your home, outdoor furniture, and overhanging trees. Regularly clean and maintain your BBQ equipment to prevent grease fires, and never leave it unattended when in use. 

However, accidents do happen. In the event of a fire, once everyone is safe and the fire is extinguished, there can be a tremendous sense of loss looking at the damage caused. But, this is where we come in. Our fire damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of Pasadena North will swiftly assess the damage, clean up the debris, and restore your home to its previous condition. 

So, fire up that grill and enjoy your summer barbecues knowing that you are prepared for any mishap and that SERVPRO of Pasadena North is just a call away for all your fire damage restoration needs. Remember, BBQs should be memorable for the right reasons. Let's keep it that way.

Christmas Tree Fire Safety

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

Christmas Tree Fire Safety

Everyone here at SERVPRO of Pasadena North believes that safety must be our top priority this holiday season. We know it can be very hard to think about safety when you are so happy and merry. SERVPRO would like to remind you of some tips to follow this year.

We all love picking out a Christmas tree, putting up decorations, sipping on some rich hot chocolate by the fireplace while listening to holiday music. Remember, some of these things can cause massive house fires. We advise you to take into consideration the following:

• Keep your Christmas trees far away from fireplaces, space heaters, and stoves.
• Do night light flame candles near your tree.
• Make sure to check holiday lights each year for frayed wires or excessive wear.
• Try not to use more than 3 holiday light strands.

Always remember, in the unfortunate event your home suffers a Christmas tree fire you can always call SERVPRO Pasadena North 24/7 even on Christmas! (626)283-5875

Be Thanksgiving Ready!

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving only comes around once a year, make this one a memorable one! (For the right reasons) There are things that can make it a bad memory and that is a FIRE! 

Turkey fires are the most likely causes of disasters on Thanksgiving. Whether it be an oven roasted turkey or a deep fried one, something can go wrong!

That is exactly what happened to our customer during the holiday season. Where they left the turkey in the oven for much longer than needed, at a much higher setting than one normally would do. This caused the oven to over heat, blowing smoke throughout the kitchen leaving a trail of soot on the walls, cabinets, and ceilings. Luckily our SERVPRO crew arrived quickly giving the customer peace of mind that there home was in good hands.

Keep Your Home Safe From Halloween Fires

10/21/2021 (Permalink)

Halloween time is one of the most fun times of the year for children and adults! Pumpkin carving is a staple of this holiday but BE WARE of possible fire hazards from these fun but dangerous festivities.

Here are some tips to keep your home safe this year:

• Swap out the old fashioned fire candle to light up your Jack-O-Lantern with battery powered candles or glow sticks
• If you do end up using fire candles please keep them away from any drought tolerant pants or fires.
• For the trick-or-treating children: teach them to stay away from lit pumpkins, do not kick them or move them in anyway
• Use a flashlight when out getting your sweet treats!

According to the National Fire Protecting Association (nfpa.org) 

• • From 2014-2018, an average of 770 home structure fires began with decorations per year. 
  • More than two of every five (44%) of these fires occurred because the decorations were too close to a heat source, such as a candle or hot equipment.
  • More than one-third (36%) of these fires were started by candles.
  • More than one-fifth (22%) of the decoration fires started in the kitchen; 16% began in the living room.

Source: NFPA Applied Research

For more tips on Halloween safety visit; https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Seasonal-fire-causes/Halloween

Step by step fire help

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO we understand how devastating a fire can be at your home and that's why we are here to help! Once the fire is put out, here are a few tips on what you can do while you wait for our SERVPRO team to arrive!

• Contact - Call your insurance company
• Avoid - try to avoid the effected areas to prevent cross contamination
• RELAX - step outside with a cup of coffee and wait until our professionals arrive 

Once your SERVPRO Heroes arrive they will:

1. Inspect the property for soot and smoke damage
2. Check for any moisture in the structure
3. Arrange for garment restoration (dry clean & launder soft goods)
4. Inspect attic, insulation, and HVAC ducting
5. Install negative air machines to filter the air using HEPA filters.
6. Provide any emergency board up or tarping services 

Of course we work directly with your insurance company before proceeding with any of the above services!

Wildfire Season is Upon Us

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

Wildfire in California

Wildfire season is upon us here in California and we must be prepared. The rising heat conditions we face along with our drought, make us prone to suffer major wildfires. Preparation is key to reducing the risks of damages to our home and business. We may not be able to prevent a wildfire, but we are responsible for making sure our families and home are prepared when it does happen.

Preparation steps such as the following can help keep your family safe during a wildfire:

• Hardening your home: maintaining landscape and removing dry weeds, remove debris from roofs, install dual pane windows, install screens, use ignition-resistant materials, etc…
• Create an Emergency Kit: equipped with first aid kits, flashlights, battery powered radio, important documents, water supply, sanitation supplies, etc…
• Create an Action Plan: such as, escape routes, designated meeting locations, evacuation plan for pets, etc..

These are just a few of several ways to be prepared for a wildfire. For more information visit: https://www.readyforwildfire.org/prepare-for-wildfire/

A Home Fire Damage Is Never Easy To Handle

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

This Arcadia, California homeowner suffered fire and smoke damage in their garage. An electrical malfunction started the dryer fire. The area of the garage surrounding the dryer became covered in soot and smoke residue. The fire was taken out quickly with the use of a fire extinguisher, quick thinking on the homeowner’s behalf.

Fire damage leaves behind odors, smoke residue and soot which can be challenging for the homeowner to clean. By calling SERVPRO of Pasadena North, the homeowner was at ease knowing the cleanup was being professional managed.

When you are faced with a fire disaster, remember SERVPRO of Pasadena North is by your side. We are have technicians that operate 24/7. Call SERVPRO of Pasadena North in your time of need at (626) 447-4111.

We can make it “Like it never even happened."

Fire Safety Tips-A Must Read

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

The National Fire Protection Agency reported that in 2016, there were 1,342,000 fires reported in the United States. These fires caused 3,390 civilian deaths, 14,650 civilian injuries, and $10.6 billion in property damage.

Some accidental fires that occur are most commonly caused by:

• Cooking Equipment
• Heating
• Smoking in bedrooms
• Electrical Equipment
• Candles
• Curious Children
• Faulty Wiring
• Barbecues

That is why we strongly recommend taking full precautions, in order  to keep your loved ones and property safe at all times. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Never leave the kitchen unattended, when stove is on. Keep close watch of pots and pans that can quickly overheat and can potentially ignite a fire.
2. Make sure heating equipment wiring is in good condition and have it maintenance yearly. Place heater at least one meter away from any objects and furniture.
3. Avoid smoking indoors. Not only is smoking a health hazard but it is also dangerous to do so indoors.
4. Make sure all electrical equipment is functioning properly and all cords are intact.
5. Never leave candles unattended especially around small children. Always remember to turn candles off after every use.
6. Children can be very curious, it is important to keep them safe by removing any flammable substances from their reach.
7. Replace faulty or damaged wiring.
8. Extinguish barbecue grill flames after every use.

You Can Never Be Too Safe

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

A fire can happen on your property at any time. We here at SERVPRO of Pasadena North provide around the clock services 7 days a week. If you need us, we'll be there. What separates us from other restoration companies is that, when we receive the call from you we immediately assemble a work crew and send them your way. As a SERVPRO employee, our priorities are to ensure the job is done right the first time and consistently update our client on the progress of the job. The reason we do this, is because more often than not your home is the biggest investment you make. Therefore, we do everything in our power to ensure the customers happiness and leaving it, "Like it never even happened."

Always Be Prepared

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

Experiencing fire damage can be a very stressful situation. The leading cause of fires in a home or business most commonly occur when cooking or smoking. Fires can also caused by heating units and/or electrical issues. 

After any fire damage, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the home?

• Electrical hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.

• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.

 Things you should do after a fire and smoke damage:

• Limit the movements in your home after a fire damage to prevent soot particles from spreading damage to upholstery and carpet. 

• Keep your hands clean.

• Place dry towels on rugs, upholstery and carpet in high traffic areas.

• If you turn off the electricity completely empty the refrigerator and prop doors open. 

• To prevent soot from sticking to chrome on kitchen/bathroom faucets or fixtures protect them by applying a small amount of petroleum jelly or oil. 

• Change HVAC filter

• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out the HVAC system.

No one ever expects to experience a fire, but if it does occur you can count on SERVPRO of Pasadena North. Our technicians are well trained to cleanup and restore your home and/or business. We are available 24-hours 7 days a week to help you get your life back together. 

Key tips to guide you through the aftermath of a fire.

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

A fire in your home or business can be very devastating. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from fire/smoke damage and also a widespread water damage from firefighting efforts.  Here are some tips what to do after the fire.

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Pasadena North to get the damage under control. WE are trained to clean and restore your home with as little disruption as possible.

Fire, Smoke, Soot, and Ash Cleanup

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

If you’ve ever experienced a home fire, then you know how devastating it can be. A house fire can cause a substantial amount of damage and is something no one should ever have to experience. Not only are they harmful to your home, the aftermath of a fire can also be harmful to your health. However, if a fire were to occur, SERVPRO of Pasadena North specializes in fire cleanup and restoration. 

After a fire has occurred, smoke, ash, soot, and a smoky odor are most likely what’s going to be left behind. We advise you to just sit back and let the professionals handle the situation. Taking matters into your own hands may only make the situation worse and even cause extended health issues. Our crew members here at SERVPRO of Pasadena North are highly trained and know exactly how to treat fire damage after it has occurred.

SERVPRO of Pasadena North is here to help and answer any questions. Call (626) 447-4111, for any concerns you may have about a home fire.

Christmas Tree Safety

1/11/2019 (Permalink)

Although, Christmas tree fires are not common. When they do occur, they can pose serious damage. Christmas trees can catch fire quickly and spread rapidly throughout the home. Here are some tips on what to do when shopping for a Christmas tree and when placing it at home! 

When picking the tree

• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

Placing the tree

• Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2" from the base of the trunk.
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
• Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.

Lighting the tree

• Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer's instructions for number of light strands to connect. 
• Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

After Christmas

• Dispose of tree after Christmas. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home.

Check with your local community to find a recycling program. Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer! 

Have a Happy and Safe Holiday from SERVPRO of Pasadena North!

New Years SAFETY Tips

1/11/2019 (Permalink)

New Year's Eve celebrations

Please take extra care during New Year celebrations.  Many of the things we enjoy during this festive period,  like fireworks, Christmas  lights, candles, paper hats and decorations can all be fire hazards when you do not properly take care of them.

Here are some tips to keep you safe this New Year

• If you are planning to celebrate with fireworks, store them in a metal box, read the instructions, never go back to a lit firework and keep a bucket of water nearby.

• Never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings. Don't leave them burning unattended.

• Decorations can burn easily - Don't attach them to lights or heaters.

• Switch off electrical appliances when not in use, unless they're designed to stay on. Take special care with fairy lights and outdoor lights. Always switch off and unplug lights before you go to bed.

• Check your lights conform to the British Standard. Always use an RCD on outdoor electrical equipment (safety device that can save lives by instantly switching off the power)

• Never leave cooking unattended.

• Check the battery in your smoke alarm every week and use the New Year as a reminder to clean it and remove dust.

SERVPRO of Pasadena North understands that New Year's celebrations are a time to have fun with family and friends!  Read and follow the tips to help have a SAFE holiday!

Happy New Years 2019

Holiday Fire Safety Tips

1/4/2019 (Permalink)

The holidays are a joyous time when we celebrate many festivities with our loved ones. However, it is also a time when many accidental fires occur. We at SERVPRO want to help ensure our customers have a happy and safe holiday season. Here are some helpful tips to help keep you and your home safe:

• When selecting a Christmas tree make sure pine needles are green and vibrant.
• Water Christmas tree daily, the average tree requires about a gallon of water. This will help avoid drying out.
• If tree does dry out do not plug in the tree lights.
• Do not leave tree lights on overnight.
• Keep Christmas tree away from heated surfaces such as fire places and heaters.
• Never leave lit candles unattended, especially around small children and/or pets.
• Always extinguish fire place after every use.
• Do not place any objects near heaters.
• When using the oven or stove, do not leave it unattended.
On behalf of our family at SERVPRO we would like to wish you and your family a Happy Holiday!