Is Your Dryer Safe?

3/1/2024 (Permalink)

A dryer seems like a convenient, safe appliance that lets you forget it and go. If you don’t maintain it properly, a lint fire can happen, which can cause sever fire damage to your home.

A Surprising Amount of Lint

Depending on your family size and how often you go through clothes, it is likely that you do a lot more laundry than you realize. An average family does approximately eight to 10 loads a week. Every load means small fabric, dust and dirt particles are collecting in your dryer’s lint trap, vent and duct work. Lint is highly flammable, making it vital to maintain cleanliness.

Cleaning Out the Lint

Instead of dealing with a potential dryer fire and needing expert help in repairing the damage, good habits can go a long way. Lint traps should be cleaned after very load. Most dryers make this easy. The trap usually slides out and the lint can be lifted off. Any lint that is leftover should be removed with a brush. Every few weeks, the screen should be rinsed with water. While the screen is out, vacuum in and around its entry point. Approximately once a year, unplug the dryer and inspect the vent and hose or pipe connected to the dryer. Wipe lint off the opening and clean any leftover in the hose or pipe. A brush can bused to clean the interior of the vent. Don’t forget the exterior vent. Ensure the vent flap is still attached and working properly. Vacuum or wipe out the opening. This should be done a few times a year.

Extra Safety Tips

To further avoid a lint fire, ensure your dryer is properly installed. Additionally, avoid drying clothes stained with chemicals, gas, oil or cleaning products, and only operate the dryer while at home. In most cases, a lint fire happens because of improper cleaning and maintenance. Taking a little extra to be safe is worth it.

Emergency Fire Damage Restoration Process

2/13/2024 (Permalink)

1. A SERVPRO of Reston/Herndonprofessional will contact you within one hour to arrange for service. 

• We understand the importance of letting you know help is on the way, right away. 

2. Within four hours, a trained professional will arrive on-site prepared to begin emergency mitigation services (if necessary).

• Timely response is key to preventing further damage. 
• Timely mitigation can mean the difference between restoring property and replacing it. 

3. The loss site will be reviewed with you, and your questions and concerns will be addressed. A SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon Professional will: 

• Identify the source of loss.
• Identify the source of your concerns. 
• Identify the types of residue present. 
• Identify safety issues. 

4. A SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon will begin pretesting for restorability. By pretesting, four key questions are answered: 

• What is unable to be restored?
• What is restorable and what methods of restoration will be most effective?
• What areas and items are unaffected? 
• What areas need to be reviewed by the Adjuster or Property Owner?

5. The scope of the project will be communicated to you or your adjuster if a claim has been filed. 

6. The structure and contents will be cleaned and restored by SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon Professionals. 

7. After the work has been completed, a final work through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction. 

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon has trained and certified technicians to help you in the event of fire damage to your home or business. 

Call us at (703)471-6040.

Space Heater

1/24/2024 (Permalink)

Many people use space heaters to take the chill out of a room in Reston/Herndon during winter, and heating equipment can cause fires. Our local team offers these heating equipment safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel-burning space heaters
• Never use your oven to heat your home
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters, or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional
• Install and maintain CO alarms to avoid the risk of CO poisoning. If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not light the appliance. Leave home immediately and call your local fire department or gas company
• If you have a fireplace, make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container, and keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
• All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Call Us Today!

When you need help with a fire damage emergency in your Reston/Herndon home or business, our Reston/Herndon team will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 703-471-6040.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Understanding Commercial Carpet Cleaning After Fire Damage

11/7/2023 (Permalink)

Every year, there are close to 1.5 million fires that occur in the United States alone. Judging from the sheer number of cases, fire damage is a common problem that many businesses have to deal with. Fire is an important part of lives but it can be extremely detrimental to our lives when we lose control of it. Fire damage has resulted in many people losing their businesses and their assets ruined permanently. As such, if you have a wall-to-wall carpet that has been affected by fire damage, this article will explain about the carpet cleaning process and what can be done to mitigate the damage that has been done.

Level of Difficulty

Your business or corporate property, you might not even know where to start when it comes to cleaning after fire damage has been sustained. However, when addressing the issue of difficulty when cleaning commercial carpets, it is dependent on the extent of damage that has been done and the type of damage. If your carpet is merely affected by the smoke, then the chances are that it will be much easier to clean. On the other hand, if your carpet or upholstery has been damaged by a combination of water, dirt and heat, then the process of cleaning will definitely be more complicated and difficult.

Cleaning Process

If you make the wise choice to hire a professional to clean the carpet after fire damage, then it is best that you are aware of the carpet cleaning process. The process usually involves the sanitizing of the carpet and mitigating any damage that has been caused by debris and smoke as a result of the fire. Before anything can be done, the carpet will be sanitized using the proper cleaning agents, in order to prevent the growth of fungi and bacteria which might cause adverse health effects. The sanitation will also help to remove the remaining dirt that are stuck in the fibers of your carpet. After ridding your carpet of these unwanted items, it is then necessary to apply anti-odor chemicals to it. This will help to eradicate the odor of smoke, which can be extremely overwhelming if it is not dealt with properly.

Carpets that Cannot be Restored

If you see that your carpet has already sustained substantial damage from things like heat or water, then there is a high chance that you might have to get it replaced. When carpets are exposed to extremely high temperatures, the fibers can be damaged permanently. If you are dealing with upholstery, the internal wood or metal components might also be structurally compromised.

Conversely, if your carpet has been exposed to too much water, it might remove the adhesives that bind it to the flooring. In cases where the carpet gets too wet, its padding can become saturated. Unfortunately this damage is irreversible and the only way to fix the problem is to replace it with a new one.

Contents You Should Keep Or Discard After A Fire

8/24/2023 (Permalink)

After a fire, it is important to carefully consider what belongings to keep and what to dispose of. 

Some materials, such as plastics, nonorganic fibers, and wiring, release harmful chemicals when exposed to high temperatures. These chemicals can be dangerous if ingested or absorbed through the skin. It is important to dispose of any items that you plan on putting in or onto your body. 

This includes food, medicine, makeup, and toiletries. You should also get rid of most items in plastic containers, as these can also release harmful chemicals.

When dealing with fire damage, it is always better to be safe than sorry. If you are unsure about whether or not an item is safe to keep, it is best to dispose of it.

Hiring a professional fire remediation company, such as SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon can help you make these decisions. They have the experience and expertise to assess the damage and help you determine what items can be saved and what needs to be disposed of.

Here are some additional tips for disposing of fire-damaged items:

• Do not throw fire-damaged items in your regular trash. This could contaminate the waste stream and pose a risk to public health.
• If you are unsure about how to dispose of an item, it is always best to err on the side of caution and dispose of it properly.

Space Heater Safety

8/24/2023 (Permalink)

In Reston/Herndon we haven't been getting much cold weather but with the colder seasons approaching we start pulling out our space heaters. Space heaters are amazing at keeping smaller areas warm but there are some risks with having one. The following are some ways SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon have found to help you stay safe with your space heater. 

• Make sure you turn off your heater before you go to sleep or leave your property. 
• Keep your space heater at least 3 feet away from anything flammable
• Check that your space heater has an automatic shut off feature
• Keep your heater on a solid flat surface 

These are some ways to keep your property and you safe. SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is always here to help. 

Steps To Protect Yourself & Your Family

5/4/2023 (Permalink)

If your home in Reston/Herndon uses gas for heating or cooking, it's important to know what to do in the event of a gas leak. On its own, natural gas doesn't have a smell, so providers put additives in that give it a scent in order to protect consumers. If you smell gas inside or outside of your home or hear a hissing sound, there are steps to take to ensure that you protect yourself and your family. 

1. Don't touch the lights
   When you first smell gas and you're not sure what's happening, the first step is to NOT turn on the lights. If there is a leak, turning a switch on or off can trigger a reaction that causes a gas fire. Similarly, don't use matches, start or stop appliances, or use the phone.
2. Check the Stove
   Check the stove to make sure that all the burners are off. One common reason that you smell gas but a gas explosion isn't imminent is that a burner was accidentally bumped on.
3. Open the Windows
   If you can verify that the natural gas smell was caused by an improperly closed burner, it's safe to open the windows and doors to air out the house. However, if you've checked the stove and no burners are on, it's important to leave the windows closed to prevent oxygen from getting to a flame.
4. Leave the House
   When the stove is ruled out as the cause of the smell, it's time to leave the house — and quickly. Worry only about getting the people in your home out; don't try to take extra items with you.
5. Call for Help!
   Once you're safely away from the house (at least across the street), call 911 for help. In the event of an explosion that causes damage, an emergency restoration team will work with you to get you back in your home quickly. A gas fire is a common way that homes sustain damage. 

How To Use A Fire Extinguisher

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

From the moment that you see the active fire in your home to when it is extinguished, you will do anything in your means to try and get it put out as soon as you can. If this doesn’t extinguish the flames then the second line of defense arrives which is the team of firefighters. When they arrive they bust down the door and hose down the remaining blaze which means more water soaking the room.

P.A.S.S 

Pull the pin; this will then break the tamper seal.

Aim low; you need to hit the flames where the source is hottest, the base.

Squeeze the handle; this will disperse the extinguishing agent on the flame. The agent will remove oxygen from the blaze, ultimately putting the fire out.

Sweep from side to side; the critical thing to remember is DON'T LET GO OF THE HANDLE until it is fully extinguished.

Fire Restoration

3/1/2023 (Permalink)

A fire is one of the most destructive elements of nature and can turn a habitable home into a heap of dust within a short amount of time. Even though there are proactive methods to control the destruction of the house, you cannot snub the damage that may have already occurred. Not only do the flames from a fire cause charring on things like cabinets, but you would be looking at the smoke, which causes widespread damage. The smoke penetrates carpets, clothing, furniture, upholstery, and other porous materials. The ultimate goal of fire restoration in damaged  homes is to reinstate the property and contents to pre-incident condition, leaving a clean and safe environment. If cleaning is not done properly, the smoke odor lingers, and further ruin can occur to your contents and structure. SERVPRO professionals start by evaluating the situation, including the extent of the damage, to know what they are dealing with. Depending on the situation, our crews can use onsite and offsite techniques to restore your home. Onsite restoration may include the removal of odor particles using the following equipment: 

• Air Scrubbers
• Thermal Fogging 
• Ozone Treatments

Cleaning Smoke Damage

Only some restoration projects require a pack out. Some contents can be manipulated and cleaned within their respective spaces. SERVPRO crews might even clean items onsite and then move them to a designated area that has not been affected to be stored. However, when cleanup requires multiple treatments, contents could be packed and taken to the Franchise Warehouse for cleaning. 

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon knows rebuilding a fire damaged home can be stressful, but you don't have to face fire restoration alone. Call us at (703)471-6040. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

What To Do When You Smell Natural Gas

1/16/2023 (Permalink)

If your home in Reston/Herndon uses gas for heating or cooking, it's important to know what to do in the event of a gas leak. On its own, natural gas doesn't have a smell, so providers put additives in that give it a scent in order to protect consumers. If you smell gas inside or outside of your home or hear a hissing sound, there are steps to take to ensure that you protect yourself and your family.

1. Don't Touch the Lights
When you first smell gas and you're not sure what's happening, the first step is to NOT turn on the lights. If there is a leak, turning a light switch on or off can trigger a reaction that causes a gas fire. Similarly, don't use matches, start or stop appliances, or use the phone.

2. Check the Stove
Check the stove to make sure that all the burners are off. One common reason that you smell gas but a gas explosion isn't imminent is that a burner was accidentally bumped on.

3. Open the Windows
If you can verify that the natural gas smell was caused by an improperly closed burner, it's safe to open the windows and doors to air out the house. However, if you've checked the stove and no burners are on, it's important to leave the windows closed to prevent oxygen from getting to a flame.

4. Leave the House
When the stove is ruled out as the cause of the smell, it's time to leave the house — and quickly. Worry only about getting the people in your home out; don't try to take extra items with you. A potential gas fire is an emergency!

5. Call for Help
Once you're safely away from the house (at least across the street), call 911 for help. In the event of an explosion that causes damage, an emergency restoration team will work with you to get you back in your home quickly.
A gas fire is a common way that homes sustain damage. If you think you smell gas, protect your family by leaving the house and calling for help.

Do You Know How To Put A Grease Fire Out...?

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

Grease fires happen when oil, grease or fat get hot enough to ignite. Grease fires can be extremely dangerous because grease is a liquid that can easily spread.  If you suspect the fire is larger than you can handle contact 9-1-1.

NEVER THROW WATER ONTO A GREASE FIRE THIS CAN CAUSE THE FIRE TO WORSEN.

Steps to take if this happens to you:

• Turn off the Stove – If you’re cooking and a pot catches fire, the first step is to remove the heat source. Turn off the burner or oven. (If your grease fire is in the oven, leave the door closed.) A fire can reignite if it’s not smothered.
• Cover with a Lid – Using a metal pan lid or baking sheet can be another to way to cut off oxygen to a grease fire. Do not use any type of Kitchen fabric the material may catch fire.ALWAYS avoid using glass or ceramic pan lids these materials can shatter.
• Products to use –Baking soda or salt can help to extinguish the fire; however this would require smothering the fire with salt or baking soda to fully extinguish the fire. Sometimes it’s easier and more effective to quickly find a lid & cover the fire. *DO NOT USE FLOUR OR BAKING POWDER as these products are highly combustible and can explode.*
• It is always recommended to have a fire extinguisher close by.

Do You Know How To Respond To A House Fire?

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

It’s that time of year again.

A fire can start from any number of sources: a faulty wire, an overloaded outlet, a kitchen accident, or a bonfire left unattended. If your home catches fire it’s important to know how to respond quickly and effectively.

Stay Safe!

If a Fire Starts, Here Is What You Need To Know:

The first line of defense against a fire is to know how to safely use the right fire extinguisher for a house fire. This simple step can save lives and tens of thousands in property damages. If the fire loses control, immediately get out and stay out, then call 9-1-1. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.

If your clothing catches on fire, remember the old phrase: Stop, Drop, and Roll.

If you live in a building with elevators, it is important to use the stairs in case of a fire. A fire can short out the elevator electrical system, and the shaft can act like a chimney and rapidly fill up with dangerous smoke.

Understanding how to use doors to your advantage during a fire can mean the difference between life and death. If the door or handle is warm, do not open it. If you can't escape through the primary way, find another way out. Do not open any doors that are warm to the touch.

If some, heat, or flames block your exits, close any doors around you, place a wet towel under the doors and call the fire department or 9-1-1. Tell them exactly where you are so they know where to find you.

If you're near a window that you can't use as an escape, open it and wave a brightly colored cloth or use your phone flashlight to signal for help.

What To Do After a Fire:

After a fire, it is important to contact a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon. We have the training, experience, and equipment to properly restore your home - "Like it never even happened."

If you try to clean up the fire damage yourself, you could end up making the situation worse both in your home and with your insurance company's process.

Call us today! (703)471-6040

Do You Know How To Put A Grease Fire Out...?

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

If you experience any fire damage to your home or business please don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon - (703)471-6040

Grease fires happen when oil, grease or fat get hot enough to ignite. Grease fires can be extremely dangerous because grease is a liquid that can easily spread.  If you suspect the fire is larger than you can handle contact 9-1-1.

NEVER THROW WATER ONTO A GREASE FIRE THIS CAN CAUSE THE FIRE TO WORSEN.

Steps to take if this happens to you:

• Turn off the Stove – If you’re cooking and a pot catches fire, the first step is to remove the heat source. Turn off the burner or oven. (If your grease fire is in the oven, leave the door closed.) A fire can reignite if it’s not smothered.
• Cover with a Lid – Using a metal pan lid or baking sheet can be another to way to cut off oxygen to a grease fire. Do not use any type of Kitchen fabric the material may catch fire. ALWAYS avoid using glass or ceramic pan lids these materials can shatter.
• Products to use – Baking soda or salt can help to extinguish the fire; however this would require smothering the fire with salt or baking soda to fully extinguish the fire. Sometimes it’s easier and more effective to quickly find a lid & cover the fire. *DO NOT USE FLOUR OR BAKING POWDER as these products are highly combustible and can explode.*
• It is always recommended to have a fire extinguisher close by.

30 Seconds Is ALL It Takes!!!

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know the most common cause of a grease fire is cooking food unattended? Two of every five homes start in the kitchen while food is cooking. It takes less than 30 seconds for a fire to start, so never leave your pan unattended.

Oils and grease are highly flammable, which means they can catch fire easily. Studies have shown that different oils burn at different temperatures. Any oil you purchase from a grocery store is capable of catching on fire.

The most flammable cooking oil has to be coconut oil it has a smoke point of 385°F or 196°C and a flash point of 563°F or 295°C. It may catch fire easily than other oils in comparison. If you catch your cooking oil boiling and smoking this is a sign to turn down the heat.

Oils have a smoke point – What does “Smoke Point Mean?”

The “smoke point” is also referred to as the burning point of cooking oils & fats. When an oil or fat is heated past its “smoke point” it gives off bluish smoke.

The most recommended cooking oils to use that tend to have a higher smoke point making them suitable for frying – Peanut oil, vegetable oil, canola oil, safflower oil & corn oil.

SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon keeps your safety a priority. IF there is a fire in your home, call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon (703)471-6040.

What to do after a fire

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

Have you had a fire in your home?  "Devastating" is an understatement when experiencing the chaos of a fire in your home. Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean-up can be, too. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority!  The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage. These can lead to corrosion, unpleasant odor, and discoloration. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem.    Take immediate action by following these steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire:  1. Contact your insurance company. 2. Contact your local fire restoration company. 3. Take photographs of the damage. 4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company. 5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed. 6. Find a place to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property. While a house fire is a difficult experience, it helps to have a game plan in place. So remember these steps for the next time you or someone you know is handling the aftermath of a house fire, and call SERVPRO® Reston/Herndon

Electric heater safety

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

As winter begins to hit and temperature begins to drop, you may choose to buy a space heater for warm up your home, apartment, or work space. Space heaters are a good alternative if you do not want to turn up your thermostat to heat up your home. However, space heaters, if not used correctly, can cause fire damage to your property. Here are some tips that you can use to prevent any disaster caused by a space heater:

• Leave the heater on level floor, don’t place on carpet - it can overheat and start a fire.
• Do not use in bathroom, unless it is designed for it - moisture can damage the heater.
• Keep three feet away from flammable materials and out of the way of children and pets.
• Should always be plugged directly into wall outlet, don’t use with extension cord because it can cause overheating.
• Don’t leave heater unattended, make sure to unplug when not in use.
• Install smoke alarms on every floor.

If you run into any issues with fire damage, call SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon.

Mitigate Damage While Waiting for Roof Repairs

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

The effects of a fire in your Reston and Herndon business can be far-reaching. If the damage has made it to the roof, you may have more than just fire cleanup on your hands. Any areas of the roof exposed to the elements may also mean securing the services of a water damage and mold professional. After contacting your insurance to start the claim process, the next call to be for tarp services to protect against secondary damage.

Why Mitigation Is Important

Whether the damage requires a roof repair or replacement, time isn’t always on your side. Along with waiting for the adjuster, getting the fix scheduled will likely require a wait. Below are reasons it is important to secure your exposed property.

Another weather event could cause more damage, increase repair costs.
If excess moisture begins to build up, mold only needs less than 48 hours to start forming.
Exposed areas may provide an opening for vandals or thieves to gain access to your property.
Even a small hole is enough for unwanted rodents and bugs to find a new home.

Tips for an Easier Claim
While waiting for fire clean up to happen, most insurers have a stipulation that requires mitigation. If windows aren’t boarded and tarps aren’t temporarily installed to keep the elements out, any additional damage incurred may not be covered. Taking the necessary steps can help ensure you get the most out of your claim.
Although you should never make repairs until after the adjuster gives the go-ahead, documenting the damage is a good way to verify the need for the claim, as well as make the process easier for the adjuster. Photographs and videos should be taken of all areas and items damage. If possible, gather any documentation that lists the value of items.
When it comes to fire cleanup, it is often not just the area the flames burned that need repaired. If there is roof or window damage, take steps to minimize damage.

What Renters Can Expect From Their Coverage

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

What Renters Can Expect From Their Coverage

Many tenants buy renter’s insurance to cover the cost of replacing their personal belongings if they are damaged or destroyed by an accident in the building where they live. Your coverage, however, may pay for much more than just item replacement. It’s important to talk to your agent, so you know just how much you can expect your insurance company to pay if the place you are renting in Reston or Herndon catches fire.

Belongings

Part of the fire restoration process is determining which items can be cleaned and saved and which must be thrown away. Your insurance coverage should pay for:

•  Assessment
•  Cleaning costs
•  Replacement costs

Make sure your policy states that it pays replacement cost rather than the actual cash value of your items. The purpose of insurance is to make you whole again, and replacing lost belongings is a good start.

Liability

If the fire was caused by your negligence, you might be liable for any damages you cause to other people or to the structure itself. Your renter’s insurance probably has a clause that protects you from legal costs. Your policy may cover damage to your neighbor’s belongings or the property itself, as well as cover medical bills of anyone injured in the fire if you bear some responsibility for its starting.

Shelter

Fire restoration experts may work quickly, but there are probably going to be some nights that you are unable to stay in your rented space. Finding a temporary place to live can be expensive. Your insurance policy is likely to cover this as well. You can include your shelter needs as part of the fallout of the fire damage to your home when you file your claim.

Your renter’s insurance does cover the loss of your belongings, but it can also cover other losses. Your insurance agent can help you build a solid policy that takes all potential expenses of the fire into consideration.

What Kind of Smoke Detector Do I need?

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

There are 3 types of smoke detector alarms on the market today. They are Ionization, Photoelectric and Combination.

An ionization smoke alarm contains a small amount of radioactive material. The radiation passes through an ionization chamber which is an air-filled space between two electrodes and permits a small, constant current between the electrodes. 

When smoke that enters the chamber absorbs the alpha particles, it reduces the ionization and interrupts the current, setting off the alarm. 

This type of alarm is generally more responsive to flaming fires.

The Photoelectric smoke alarms operate using a light source.

A light beam collimating system and a photoelectric sensor. When smoke enters the optical chamber and crosses the path of the light beam, some light is scattered by the smoke particles, directing it at the sensor and thus activating the alarm. 

This type of alarm is generally more responsive to fires that begin with a long period of smoldering.

Combination smoke alarms feature both ionization and photoelectric technologies. Ionization smoke alarms respond faster to high energy fires, whereas photoelectric detectors respond better to low energy smoldering fires. The best overall protection is provided by using combination smoke alarms.

How to prepare for a fire incident in your workplace

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Nobody ever thinks or likes to prepare for a dangerous terrifying fire situation but in order to be safe in the office, you should know these simple strategies to safely confront a fire situation in your office.  Have your peers know these strategies since it can make a huge difference when a fire hazard arises.

• Have an evacuation plan and make sure to share it with the staff. Make sure this evacuation plan meets legal requirements. This plan should be customized to the unique size of your office workplace.
• Make sure all employees know how to properly use a fire extinguisher. Have proper training sessions on how to do so.
• Fire drills are very important. Have at least 2 a year with all the staff participating. This will help in planning out where all of you will meet in case of an actual fire situation. It’s important that everyone has an easy route to an escape exit; this drill will help establish this route.
• Keep smoke detectors up to date and make sure they are functional. Have a few around the office so the staff can hear them clearly in case of a fire. Make sure everyone knows what the fire alarm sounds like.
• In order to reduce potential hazards frequently check the conditions of electrical cables and replace them if they seem old or wear out. Take a look to see if they are overloaded.

Remember these strategies and practice them in your work place to keep everyone safe.  Have the plan somewhere visible such as the office break room or the office kitchen. Keep the plan and employees update in order to work in a safely planed office and in the case of a fire incident SERVPRO of Reston/Herndon is a phone call away.

Five ways to prevent a dryer fire

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

A home dryer fire.

Did you know that dryer fires are the cause of over 15,000 home fires each year? They are also the cause of about 190 million dollars worth of damage and 29 deaths every year. Laundry is an essential household task, but every homeowner must be made aware of the potential dangers that using dryers can create if not used properly. In this article, you will find a few best practices for safe dryer use.

1. Always remember to clean the lint trap. Do this every time you use the dryer! Not only will this help extend the efficiency of the dryer, but it's vital in preventing dryer fires.
2. Make sure that your dryer and the surrounding areas are free of any combustible materials. Make sure to constantly sweep and dust around the outside of the dryer to prevent lint and dust build-up. 
3. Make sure your outside dryer vent is clean. Make sure the flap is open and no snow or debris is blocking the opening of the vent.
4. Check your clothes. If your clothes aren’t dry or they are extra hot after a normal dry cycle it may be a sign that something is wrong with your dryer. Before you put in your next load make sure that your vents aren’t clogged and that your lint trap is clean.
5. Read the tags. Make sure you carefully look at the tags on your clothes and wash them accordingly. For example, if the tag says to wash on low don’t put the machine on high. 
6. Use a metal dryer duct. Plastic and other kinds of ducts can sag and collect lint and cause a fire hazard. Metal ducts don’t sag and they are more likely to contain a fire if one should start. 

Reston/Herndon Fire, Smoke, and Soot Cleanup

7/31/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Reston/ Herndon will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 703-471-6040

Fire Pit Safety

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

One of the newest “items to have” for both summer and winter months is a Fire Pit.  Fire pits come in various shapes and materials, brick, metal, concrete and more.  Many individuals are even constructing their own fire pits based on pictures that they see, or out of sheer desire and creativity.  Fire pits can be propane or wood burning or natural gas.  Please note Propane and Natural Gas are NOT  the same.

 While a fire pit may be the new “must-have” item in home and garden, users must remember to implement detailed safety practices for users to maintain. This may include using a poker, log grabber, or shovel when adjusting burning logs or assuring that enough space exists between seats and the pit so that pedestrians may easily walk by.

Please remember: do not leave a lit or burning fire pit unattended. Wind may blow fumes and embers into surrounding areas which may create a significant fire hazard.  Please also note that embers can remain a fire hazard for days if not adequately dealt with, so double check before leaving the fire pit that there is no residual heat present.

Electrical Safety Counterfeit Products Portable Heaters

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

• More than 3,000 electrical fires are caused by extension cords each year, resulting in 50 deaths and 270 injuries.
• Large appliances cause nearly 20 percent of consumer-product electrocutions annually.
• U.S. Customs confiscates more than $3 million in consumer electrical products each year, and explains that products with counterfeit certification marks, including CSA, UL and ETL, have not been tested for shock and fire hazards.

Sales of electrical products increase during the winter months.  Sales of Counterfeit Electrical products is on the rise, these items have not met the testing and safety standards and can result in injury, death and property damage.  Purchase your products from reputable dealers and check for certification marks.

PORTABLE HEATER SAFETY:

• Keep all furniture, draperies, and other household objects at least three feet from the in-wall fan heaters and 12 inches from baseboard heaters.
• Keep portable space heaters at least three feet away from all flammable materials, such as furniture and draperies. ? Plug portable space heaters directly into the outlet; do not use an extension cord.
• If an in-wall or baseboard heater is shut off at the circuit breaker, be sure to lock or tag the circuit breaker to prevent someone from inadvertently turning it back on.
• Some portable space heaters, electric in-wall fan heaters and baseboard heaters have been subject to product recalls. Check your brand and model number and visit www.cpsc.gov for possible information about your heater.

Hoarding and Fire Safety

12/22/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Departments are finding that hoarding causes issues with evacuating the residence and higher risks for adjoining properties.

NFPA - Hoarding and fire safety

The excessive accumulation of materials in homes poses a significant threat to firefighters fighting fires and responding to other emergencies in these homes and to residents and neighbors. Often, the local fire department will be contacted to help deal with this serious issue. Since studies suggest that between three and five percent of the population are compulsive hoarders, fire departments must become familiar with this issue and how to effectively handle it.

NFPA - Hoarding and fire safety

• Hoarding can be a fire hazard. Many occupants die in fires in these homes. Often, blocked exits prevent escape from the home. In addition, many people who are hoarding are injured when they trip over things or when materials fall on them.
• Responding firefighters can be put at risk due to obstructed exits, falling objects, and excessive fire loading that can lead to collapse. Hoarding makes fighting fires and searching for occupants far more difficult.
• Those living adjacent to an occupied structure can be quickly affected when a fire occurs, due to excessive smoke and fire conditions.

Holiday Fires are twice as likely

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

The Holiday Season is the most deadly and costly time of the year with regard to fires.

The  U.S. Fire Administration reports more than double the  number of open flame fires on Christmas Day than the average day.  Property loss in a Holiday Fire is about 34% greater than in a regular fire, and loss of life is and fatalities is about 70% higher if the cause is a Christmas Tree. 

*One if every four Christmas Tree fires is due to Electrical problems. 

*A heat source too close to the tree causes 1 in every four Christmas Tree fires.

*The top 3 days for Candle Fires are Christmas, New Year's Day and Christmas Eve.

*Candles start 2 out of 5 Home Decoration fires.

Mak and effort nto get Holiday, candle and "Christmas tree fire" Safety outreach materials.

Stop, Drop, and Call SERVPRO: Fire Damage DOs and DON’Ts for Virginia Homeowners

10/4/2017 (Permalink)

Are you a homeowner or property manager in Reston/ Herndon, VA? In the case of a fire, do you know what to do before help arrives? Regardless of your fire cleanup and restoration knowledge, allow us to help you minimize the damage to your home as you await the arrival of emergency service professionals.

The first 48 hours after a fire disaster can make all the difference between fire cleanup and restoration versus complete replacement of your property and belongings.

Check out these tips for fire damage prevention to your Virginia home:

DO:

• Limit movement of persons and furniture to prevent soot particles from settling into your home.
• Prevent soiled furniture by covering upholstered belongings with clean towels or old linens.
• Remove soot from chrome faucets, trim, and appliances.
  
  

DO NOT:

• Attempt to clean walls or painted surfaces without contacting SERVPRO.
• Shampoo carpet or upholstery without consulting fire cleanup professionals.
• Clean or repair electrical equipment.
• Clean clothes- improper cleaning may permanently stain clothes with soot and smoke odor.

In the case of a house fire, remove yourself from the property as quickly as possible, call 911, then call SERVPRO of Reston/ Herndon-- your trusted Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration experts. Our professional staff can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems in your home. We provide fast response to any size disaster, with services ranging from fire cleanup to contents claim inventory and document restoration.

Call us with your fire restoration needs - (703) 471-6040. We offer our 24-hour emergency cleanup services 365 days a year.