Fire Damage Emergency Tips

8/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO helped repair this dorm room recover after fire and smoke damage.

What you can do until help arrives

The steps you take immediately after a fire, especially within the first 24 hours, can determine whether or not you successfully restore your property and belongings. Your actions also have an impact on your health and safety, as there are many hazards to be aware of during the cleanup and restoration. The smoke and soot left behind after a fire can be extremely hazardous and even cost lives. In fact, smoke inhalation is the leading cause of death amongst fire victims. Soot inhalation can cause severe illness or death as well. Your first priority is to have a qualified fire damage restoration specialist come right away to assess the damage and ensure that the proper steps are taken as quickly as possible.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (936) 559-0404

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• 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.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Pet Fire Safety

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

This puppy was lost, scared, and hungry and was reunited with his family!

According to the National Fire Protection Association* (NFPA), pets or wild animals take part in starting around 750 accidental home fires per year. These accidents involve cooking equipment, fireplaces and chimneys, space heaters, lamps, bulbs, wiring, and candles.

To prevent and prepare for a possible house fire, it is important to remember your pets when thinking about your fire preparedness plan.

PREVENTING A FIRE

• Pets are curious. They may bump into, turn on, or knock over cooking equipment. Keep pets away from stoves and countertops.
• Keep pets away from candles, lamps, and space heaters.
• Always use a metal or heat-tempered glass screen on a fireplace and keep it in place.
• Keep pets away from a chimney’s outside vents. Have a “pet-free zone” of at least 3 feet (1 meter) away from the fireplace. Glass doors and screens can stay dangerously hot for several hours after the fire goes out.
• Consider battery-operated, flameless candles. They can look and smell like real candles.
• Some pets are chewers. Watch pets to make sure they don’t chew through electrical cords.

PREPARING FOR A FIRE

• Include your pet into your family emergency plan and practice taking them with you. Talk with your family members to determine who is responsible for grabbing your pets and who should grab their supplies (food, medication, photo, leashes and carriers, medical records) during an emergency to reduce scrambling and redundancy when speed and efficiency are needed.
• Put a decal in your home’s front window indicating the number and type of pets you have – Providing this information can cut down on the time responders spend searching your home in the case of a fire.
• Make sure your pet’s updated contact information is reflected on their ID collar and in the microchip database – If your pet gets lost during a fire, this will help rescuers get him or her back to you.
• Use monitored smoke detectors connected to emergency responders – Should a fire start while you are away from your home, you’ll rest assured that your pet has access to emergency response services even if no one is home to call them.
• Know your pets’ hideaways and create ways for you to access them in case of an emergency easily – It’s nice that your pet can get away if he or she wants to, but in an emergency, you need to be able to locate and extract your pet as quickly as possible.

DURING A FIRE

• Attempt to grab your pet and exit the home as quickly as possible, but leave if it takes too long to locate or secure them. You should never delay escape or endanger yourself or your family. Once responders get there, immediately inform them your pet is still inside so they can enter your home and continue looking for your pet.
• Grab leashes and carriers on your way out of the house. Outside, it may be chaotic, and that could cause your pet to try to escape to a calmer, safe area.
• Never go back inside a burning house. If you can’t find your pet, leave, open the door, and call to them repeatedly from a safe distance away. Let firefighters take over the task of locating your pet.

Fire and smoke damage restoration in Lufkin, Texas.

7/4/2022 (Permalink)

This property owner called SERVPRO to help with fire & smoke damage restoration.

When a fire strikes your commercial property, it's quite likely that you feel yourself start to panic. This immediate reaction makes sense given all of the economic turmoil and property destruction that a fire can cause. However, knowing which steps to take in the face of a commercial fire can help prevent you from becoming anxious, losing money, and undergoing extensive property damages. To handle a Longview commercial fire successfully and speedily, implement the following four tips:

1. Contact A Fire Remediation Expert. 
Once the fire department has doused all of the flames, be sure to call a fire remediation expert. This individual will be able to equip you with a thorough assessment indicating the extent of the damages. Don't ever attempt to handle any of the cleanups, drying, or restoration processes on your own. Doing so could put you in peril of injury and illness.

2. Assemble Your Records. 
In addition to contacting a fire remediation expert, make sure that you assemble your business's essential records. You'll want to have this information with you when you start working with your insurance company. To guarantee that you can have all of your files ready in a safe place, make a point to buy a fireproof safe where they can be stored.

3. Call The Insurance Company Immediately. 
Be sure that you call your insurance company once the fire is put out. This step is important because your insurance agent will work with you to file a claim and determine how much coverage you'll attain for the commercial damages.

4. Get Permission To Reenter The Building. 
Always ask the fire department or another local authority whether you can reenter your building. 

Call SERVPRO For Fast, Friendly Fire Remediation Services 
If your business caught on fire, don't worry. Instead, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches County and let us start cleaning up immediately. Acting right now is the key to limiting damages and expediting the restoration process. Choosing our team of industry specialists is the secret to attaining the sophisticated services you deserve. All of our IICRC-certified technicians will work with diligence and determination to get your commercial property back in pristine condition, so call us now at 936-637-0404 to attain your free estimate.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches County is strategically located to respond quickly to your commercial fire emergency event. When commercial fire damage occurs we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today! 936-637-0404..

What Happens after a fire to my Nacogdoches home?

7/4/2022 (Permalink)

Knowing what to do after a fire can help prevent even more emotional stress after an already devastating event.

Fires can be especially devastating to your Nacogdoches home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches County professionals have specialized fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet. 

 In 2015, there were 1,345,500 fires reported in the United States. These fires caused 3,280 civilian deaths, 15,700 civilian injuries, and $14.3 billion in property damage. (National Fire Protection Association)

• 501,500 were structure fires, causing 2,685 civilian deaths, 13,000 civilian injuries, and $10.3 billion in property damage.

• 204,500 were vehicle fires, causing 500 civilian fire deaths, 1,875 civilian fire injuries, and $1.8 billion in property damage.

• 639,500 were outside and other fires, causing 95 civilian fire deaths, 825 civilian fire injuries, and $252 million in property damage.

The 2015 U.S. fire loss clock a fire department responded to a fire every 23 seconds. One structure fire was reported every 63 seconds.

• One home structure fire was reported every 86 seconds.

• One civilian fire injury was reported every 34 minutes.

• One civilian fire death occurred every 2 hours and 40 minutes.

• One outside and other fire was reported every 52 seconds.

• One highway vehicle fire was reported every 3 minutes 1 seconds.

Dryer Vent Dangers

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

Dryer vent maintenance can keep you safe from an unsuspected fire.

Did you know that a dirty dryer vent is one of the biggest fire hazards in your home?

The removable lint filter traps a lot of the lint produced while drying your clothes but does not get all of it. This lint that slips through your filter or lint trap gets trapped in nooks and crannies deep inside the dryer ductwork that allows hot air from your dryer to escape your home. This build-up of lint can make it harder for your dryer to work and can lead to overheating. This excess heat can ignite the lint and cause house fires.

Other than the fire hazard clogged vents present, congested dryer ducts can introduce other problems. A clogged dryer vent can waste your time, energy, and money by causing your dryer to take longer to dry your clothes. Not only is this bad for your wallet, but they need to run the dryer for longer amounts of time is also bad for the environment.

While there are some maintenance tasks that you can do regularly to keep your dryer vent and ducts clean, much of the work of getting deep into the ducts and vents to deep clean the system can be difficult if you don’t have the proper training and equipment. Read on to find out what maintenance tasks you can perform on your own and what is best left for the pros.

WARNING SIGNS THAT YOUR DRYER VENTS ARE BECOMING UNSAFE

Most laundry-doers dutifully clean their dryer’s lint screen before each new load of clothes. No matter how diligent you are with your lint cleaning, lint will still be able to get past the lint screen, building up to dangerous lint clogs in the hoses or ductwork that carries hot air outside your home.

There are several warning signs to look for that may indicate that your dryer vents are clogged and should be taken care of immediately to avoid any accidental fires in your home. If you notice that your clothes are taking longer to dry, are still damp at the end of a full cycle, or if you notice that your clothes are hot to the touch when the cycle is over, it may be time to call in the pros. Other signs that your vents need to be cleaned include the dryer itself running hotter than usual or your dedicated laundry room (or the air surrounding the dryer itself) being humid or damp.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO MAINTAIN YOUR DRYER VENTS

The first step of cleaning any appliance is to unplug the dryer from the wall. If your dryer is powered by natural gas, this process is a bit more complicated and should be left to professional dryer vent cleaners like SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches County. 

Call us at 936-637-0404 and schedule a cleaning appointment today! 

Lufkin Texas Smoke and Soot Cleanup

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Lufkin Home.

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allow 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 Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches 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 – 936-637-0404

Fire Damage Restoration

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

After removing all the smoke, soot, and damaged material only the studs remain and are now ready for reconstruction.

Restoring your home or business after fire damage to its pre-fire condition is our main goal. As a leading fire damage restoration company, we specialize in fire and water damage restoration, removal of smoke odors, and deep-cleaning soot from walls, carpets, and upholstery.

We Can Help in the Aftermath of Fire Damage

Get Back to Business Quickly After a Fire

As a business owner, you know that any disruption in business affects your bottom line. We have large loss teams that work alongside our local SERVPRO experts. These professionals understand your unique set of problems when faced with fire damage and can respond immediately to your call. Our goal is to help you get your business up and running again as soon as possible after a fire emergency.

Why a Closed Door Can Save Lives During a Fire

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

A Closed Door Can Save Lives During a Fire

Fire officials say that closing the door can be one of the most critical actions people can take to stop the spread and save lives when confronting a fire.  Closing doors can cut off the pump, slowly starving a fire of much of that fuel. It can also provide one of the most effective barriers to temporarily inhibit the spread of flames and smoke, giving firefighters crucial time to respond.

FSRI research on fire service horizontal ventilation began in 2008, and analyzed the effect of doors and windows on a fire’s spread. Bedrooms on the first and second floors of a home were tested during the scenario. Using thermal imaging cameras, researchers found that closed-door rooms on both floors during the fire’s spread had average temperatures of less than 100 degrees Fahrenheit versus 1000+ degrees in the open-door rooms.

The Close Before You Doze public fire safety education program comes because of over a decade of research conducted by UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI). After proving that a closed-door could potentially save lives in a fire, FSRI has committed to sharing this finding with the world.

Practice, practice, practice… Families do the drill.

Put one adult in charge of sounding the smoke alarm and running the drill. Next, sound the smoke alarm, start the timer, and have everyone book it to the safety spot. Once everyone gets to the safety spot, stop the timer. If you all made it in under two minutes, you each get an imaginary gold medal.

How Can Smoke Damage Affect Your Lufkin Property?

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches County has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches County has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition. Click here to review our complete fire damage restoration process. Every fire is different, and smoke and soot creates a unique type of damage.

Smoke and soot damage is created after a fire has been extinguished in a home or a business, soot residue settles into the property. Soot is a very fine, black powder substance which binds to walls and fabric.

Like soot, smoke damage can be problematic, and it can cause serious health damage. It will cause discoloration of walls and it will sink into all property contents, causing smoke odor to linger for long periods of time.

This is why it is extremely important to hire a professional fire mitigation company to restore the damage.

The type of smoke or soot damage will define how we clean and treat the affected areas, but our process has several steps. We are trained extensively on all types of soot or smoke damage and if you contact as quickly enough, we will be able to restore most items. We also use Personal Protective Equipment as per Health and Safety regulations.

Fires can happen at any time, day or night. The most important thing is quick response time that’s why SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches County is available 24 hours a day/7 days a week.

SERVPRO of Lufkin/Nacogdoches clean smoke damaged clothes

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lufkin/Nacogdoches can clean and remove odor from clothes after a fire.

People often ask us if we can save smoke-damaged clothes? The answer may surprise you. If clothing has not been burned in a fire, there's a good chance smoke, and soot have damaged it. Even still, you can still restore your clothes to their original fresh state. However, this takes special care that often takes the expertise of fire damage restoration professionals.

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals understand your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings are the very things that make a house a home.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals specialize in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Their expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. They pretest your belongings to determine what items they can restore to pre-fire condition.

Tips on How to Keep your Lufkin Home Fire Safe This Summer

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – (936) 559-0404

Once you’ve already experienced fire damage in your Lufkin home or business you already know who to call, the pros here at SERVPRO. However, there’s really only one person who can help prevent these fires from ever happening though, and that’s you. Some of the most common ways that these fires start are quite simple and most of the time entirely preventable. So here is a list of things to keep your eye on to hopefully keep your property safe.

1. Cooking Equipment. Pots and pans can overheat and can easily cause a fire if the person cooking gets distracted.
2. Heating Appliances. Portable heaters should be kept at least one yard away from anything. Especially if it could easily catch fire.
3. Smoking. A cigarette butt that has not been put out properly can cause a small flame which could stay lit for a few hours.
4. Candles. Yes we all love our homes looking and smelling pretty, but never leave a room with a burning candle going. A candle flame doesn’t even have to come in contact with flammable materials to combust into flame. The wax from the candle can easily overheat and light up on its own. Keep candles away from anything flammable. Blow candles out before leaving your home, the room and even before going to bed.
5. Faulty Wiring. Inadequate wiring causes fires. If your lights dim when using other appliances, fuses blow the circuit frequently, or if an appliance only works by having to disconnect another- then you may have bad wiring. Contact a licensed electrician if you have any of these occurrences.
6. Barbecues. They’re great for outdoor cooking meals and promote quality family time spent together. Plus who doesn’t love the smoky grilled flavor of any food prepared on them? Just make sure to keep barbecues away from your home. Barbecuing underneath covered porches, next to tablecloths, any plants, tree branches, falling leaves or keeping your accelerants (lighter fluid / box of matches) close to your grill could cause the spread of a fire. If you are using propane, be sure to check the gas tank for any leaks before using it.
7. Lighting. Lamp shades build up heat if they are too close to the light bulbs. Keep lamps in areas where they can not be easily knocked over. Never use a scarf or other cloth to cover your lamps as heat build up can cause combustion.
8. Christmas Trees. Real Christmas trees tend to dry out over time, and usually by the end of the holiday season they’re done. They can cause a very serious flash fires if not disposed of in a timely manner. A hot light or a spark can set the tree aflame almost immediately and these fires to spread quickly due to the prickly leaves being so dry.

FIRE SAFETY

5/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Staff donates Fire Safety color books to Raguet Elementary, in Nacogdoches Texas.

FIRE SAFETY

Fires can start and spread quickly, so just a little bit of planning can make a big difference. Elementary school is a great place to start with fire drill practice and training. Make sure to create a home fire escape plan and practice it regularly with your family.

Hard Facts About Fire Safety

• In 2017, 268 children died in home fires.
• Nearly eighty-seven percent of all fire-related deaths are due to home fires, which spread rapidly and can leave families as little as two minutes to escape once an alarm sounds.
• Fires are not just a problem in the United States. In 2017, more than 27,000 children around the world died due to a fire or burn.
• Working smoke alarms reduce the chances of dying in a reported home fire by fifty percent.

Top Tips for Fire Safety

• Check smoke alarms. Make sure there is a working smoke alarm on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and near sleeping areas. Test smoke alarms every month and replace them every 10 years or when the battery is low.
• Create and practice a fire escape plan. Create a home fire escape plan with two ways out of every room. Choose a place to meet outside that is a safe distance away from your home.
• Practice a home fire drill at least twice a year. Practice a home fire drill with your family during the day and at night. Practice escaping in under two minutes. Sometimes that is all the time you will have to get out of the house safely.
• If there is a fire, leave home immediately. If there is a lot of smoke, get low and crawl out of the house as quickly as possible. Call 911 after you are a safe distance away from your home.

Stop, Drop & Roll

5/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lufkin/S.Nacogdoches donates Fire safety workbooks to Raguet Elementary in Nacogdoches Texas.

Help Your Child Survive a Fire

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. 
• Once a month check whether each alarm in the home is working properly by pushing the test button. 
• Replace batteries in smoke alarms at least once a year. Immediately install a new battery if an alarm chirps, warning the battery is low.
• Teach your children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
• Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home, and where to meet up outside..
• Practice your fire escape plan at least twice a year and at different times of the day. Practice waking up to smoke alarms, low crawling and meeting outside. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
• Emphasize “get out, stay out.” Only professional firefighters should enter a building that is on fire—even if other family members, pets or prized possessions are inside.
• Use quick-release devices on barred windows and doors. Security bars without release devices can trap you in a deadly fire. If you have security bars on your windows, be sure one window in each sleeping room has a release device.
• Consider getting escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second or third floor. Learn how to use them, and store them near the windows. 
• Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

COMMON CAUSES OF ELECTRICAL FIRES

5/1/2021 (Permalink)

It is important to teach the common causes of electrical fires.

COMMON CAUSES OF ELECTRICAL FIRES

When working with members of your community on fire and life safety, it is important to teach the common causes of electrical fires. Here are the 5 most common causes of electrical fires.

Electrical fire cause 1: Faulty outlets, appliances. Most electrical fires are caused by faulty electrical outlets and old, outdated appliances. Other fires are started by faults in appliance cords, receptacles and switches. Never use an appliance with a worn or frayed cord, which can send heat onto combustible surfaces like floors, curtains, and rugs that can start a fire.

Running cords under rugs is another cause of electrical fires. Removing the grounding plug from a cord so it can be used in a two-prong electrical outlet can also cause a fire. The reason appliances have the extra prong is so they can be only used in outlets that can handle the extra amount of electricity that these appliances draw.

Electrical fire cause 2: Light fixtures. Light fixtures, lamps and light bulbs are another common reason for electrical fires. Installing a bulb with a wattage that is too high for the lamps and light fixtures is a leading cause of electrical fires. Always check the maximum recommended bulb wattage on any lighting fixture or lamp and never go over the recommended amount.

Another cause of fire is placing materials like cloth or paper over a lampshade. The material heats up and ignites, causing a fire. Faulty lamps and light fixtures also frequently result in fires.

Electrical fire cause 3: Extension cords. Misuse of extension cords is another electrical fire cause. Appliances should be plugged directly into outlet and not plugged into an extension cord for any length of time. Only use extension cords as a temporary measure. If you do not have the appropriate type of outlets for your appliances, hire an electrician to install new ones.

Electrical fire cause 4: Space heaters. Because these types of heaters are portable, many times people put them too close to combustible surfaces such as curtains, beds, clothing, chairs, couches and rugs. Coil space heaters are especially dangerous in this regard because the coils become so hot they will almost instantaneously ignite any nearby flammable surface.

If you do use space heaters, use the radiator-type that diffuse heat over the entire surface of the appliance. These are less likely to ignite flammable items, but should still be kept away from them.

Electrical fire cause 5: Wiring. Outdated wiring often causes electrical fires. If a home is over 20 years old, it may not have the wiring capacity to handle the increased amounts of electrical appliances in today’s average home, such as computers, wide-screen televisions, video and gaming players, microwaves and air conditioners.

Breakers should be triggered when circuits get overloaded by too much electricity, but outdated breaker boxes often have worn connectors that do not work, causing the system to overload and start an electrical fire.

Know The Facts About Electrical Fires

5/1/2021 (Permalink)

Complete home loss due to fire.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, electrical fires accounted for 6.3% of all residential fires, with approximately 24,000 fires being reported each year. 

KEY FACTS FROM THE USFA ELECTRICAL FIRES REPORT

• Residential building electrical fires occurred most often in one- and two-family dwellings (83%).
• Residential building electrical fires occurred most often in the winter month of January (12%) due to increased use of heating appliances and lights.
• In only 17% of residential building electrical fires, the fire spread was limited to the object where the fire started.
• Residential building electrical fires most often started in bedrooms (15%) and attics or vacant crawl spaces (13%).
• Although most electrical fires start in the bedroom, the highest number of fatalities occur with fires located in the living room, family room and den.
• The leading specific items most often first ignited in residential building electrical fires were electrical wire, cable insulation (31%) and structural member or framing (18%).
• The leading specific factors contributing to the ignition of residential building electrical fires were other electrical failure, malfunction (43%), unspecified short-circuit arc (23%), and short-circuit arc from defective, worn insulation (11%).

What to do if You Smell Natural Gas in Your Lufkin Home

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

If your Lufkin, Texas home uses gas for heating or cooking, it's important to know what to do in the event of a gas leak.

If your Lufkin, Texas home 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 infuse 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 necessarily 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.

Specialized Fire Damage Mitigation for Your Nacogdoches Home

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

For any fire damage in your Lufkin home or Business, Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches - 936-637-0404.

It is no secret that house fires are never a welcome surprise. Something as simple as leaving an item in the oven can often have disastrous consequences. Kitchen fires like this (protein fires) are not as simple as one would initially think. 

So, what exactly is a protein fire? A protein fire is smoke damage resulting from the extreme burn of a protein rich fiber (such as meat left cooking in an oven). And, like mentioned above, at first glance, protein fires do not appear to cause any damage to other surfaces in your kitchen and home. Nonetheless, the damage is there.

What makes the damage hard to quantify? Protein fires generally leave little visible residue, often confusing the untrained observer. While it may be difficult to visually see damage, you can most definitely smell it. Protein fires create a significantly more repugnant smell than most other fires. The nature of the burn also causes it to penetrate deeply into walls and furniture even more completely than other fires. This makes the mitigation process more difficult than most fires and can sometimes require multiple attempts and methods.

Now the final question is, what to do after the fact? Luckily, this question has a simple answer, contact the pros at SERVPRO. Every fire damage situation is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When various materials burn, the soot they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. So regardless of what type of fire your Nacogdoches home has had, we have the tools and experience to handle it.

For any fire damage in your Lufkin home or Business, Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches County to speak to a Fire Mitigation Specialist. 936-637-0404.

Tips on Keeping Your Lufkin Home Fire-Safe This Winter

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), heating equipment ranks as the second leading cause of house fires nationwide.

As the frigid winter months keep creeping closer, keeping your home warm and cozy for the holidays is going to be a necessity. Thus, most of us this holiday season will be relying on heating systems. So, it is really no surprise that according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), heating equipment ranks as the second leading cause of house fires nationwide. All these risks are nearly entirely preventable if proper precaution is taken. Be sure to keep any flammable items away from your heaters. Also, it is vital to stay aware to any open flames you may have going in your home, such as candles. Be sure to also test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors once a month and inspect all your electrical equipment for defective parts (such as a frayed cord). In essence, to enjoy a safer holiday, be vigilant and stay proactive.

The SERVPRO of Lufkin way to neutralize smoke odors

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

No one deals with smoke odor like SERVPRO!

Only SERVPRO offers the very best in restoration services and one of the ways we do that is by using ozone.  

Ozone will neutralize virtually all organic odors, specifically those that contain carbon as their base element. This will include all the bacteria and fungus groups as well as smoke, decay, and cooking odors.  

Ozone is a toxic gas. However, it can be used safely when deployed by specialized generators under proper considerations. The benefits of using ozone for restoration work are fantastic. Smoke odor molecules that infiltrate all porous surfaces can be permanently removed by ozone gas. Only ozone will work on the most stubborn of all odor molecules, that being protein. Odors associated most forms of decay and like freezer failure have long resisted normal chemical deodorizing attempts. Ozone again has the potency to neutralize even these contaminants.  -

Info from: www.ozonesolutions.com 

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Lufkin / S. Nacogdoches County is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call, and leave the restoration to us.  

-(936) 559-0404 

What to do after a fire

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals clean and restore your property using specialized equipment and cleaning techniques.

Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have specialized fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet.  
In 2015, there were 1,345,500 fires reported in the United States. These fires caused 3,280 civilian deaths, 15,700 civilian injuries, and $14.3 billion in property damage. (National Fire Protection Association)

• 501,500 were structure fires, causing 2,685 civilian deaths, 13,000 civilian injuries, and $10.3 billion in property damage.

• 204,500 were vehicle fires, causing 500 civilian fire deaths, 1,875 civilian fire injuries, and $1.8 billion in property damage.

• 639,500 were outside and other fires, causing 95 civilian fire deaths, 825 civilian fire injuries, and $252 million in property damage.

The 2015 U.S. fire loss clock a fire department responded to a fire every 23 seconds. One structure fire was reported every 63 seconds.

• One home structure fire was reported every 86 seconds.

• One civilian fire injury was reported every 34 minutes.

• One civilian fire death occurred every 2 hours and 40 minutes.

• One outside and other fire was reported every 52 seconds.

• One highway vehicle fire was reported every 3 minutes 1 seconds.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup in Deep East Texas

6/22/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your East Texas Home.

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 Lufkin/ S. Nacogdoches County 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 – (936)554-0404

The Different Types of Fires that can Affect your Home

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

1. Class A Fire Damage: Fire damage from a Class A fire is the result of a fire involving flammable solids, including, various plastics, paper, rubber, wood, and cloth.

2. Class B Fire Damage: Class B fire damage consists of damage as a result of flammable liquids or solids that can become liquefied. This includes gasoline and various forms of petrol, oil, various waxes and plastics, and paint. However, fires caused by cooking oils and fats don’t count as Class B.

3. Class C Fire Damage: A Class C fire damage is one involving flammable gasses, including hydrogen, propane, butane, and natural gas.

4. Class D Fire Damage: Class D fire damage consists of fires caused by combustible metals. This may include magnesium, potassium, and sodium.

5. Class E Fire Damage: Class E is fire damage that results from the factors in both Class A and Class B. The difference being, Class involves the introduction of electrical elements, which makes fighting the fire and the resulting damage very different from Class A and Class B.

6. Class F Fire Damage: Class F is a fire that results from cooking oils and fats. This type of fire differs from Class B because these fires are significantly hotter and the damage more severe.

Call SERVPRO of Lufkin/ S. Nacogdoches County at 936-559-0404.

What Exactly is a Protein Fire?

5/8/2020 (Permalink)

Protein fires create an especially unique restoration challenge. Fire damage caused by burnt food can also create odor issues which are difficult to mitigate. Here are some important facts regarding this type of fire.

1. Protein fires generally leave little visible residue, often confusing the untrained observer
2. They create a significantly more repugnant smell than most other fires
3. The nature of the burn causes the odor to permeate structure and furniture even more completely than other fires
4. Require extremely thorough cleaning to remove the odor
5. Sometimes require a sealing agent or even repainting to completely eradicate the odor
6. May require multiple attempts and methods to achieve customer satisfaction

It is also important to recognize that perception of odor is highly individual.  There are no tools available to “measure” smell, and as a result, a homeowner may perceive odors that technicians or even neighbors cannot.  Often times, because of the strong link between smell and memory, a homeowner may experience “phantom odors” where the memory of the event causes reproduction of the odor even after thorough cleaning.

Fire Damage In Your Home Or Business? Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches County to speak to a Fire Mitigation Specialist. 936-637-0404

Your Lufkin Business and Fire Awareness

5/8/2020 (Permalink)

Keeping your Lufkin commercial property fire ready is vital in order to avoid disaster. Your livelihood and that of your staff depends on your business, and you will want to protect it. Being ready for any kind of disaster is always a good idea. We are sharing some tips here that can help you get your property ready in the event of a fire:

Ensure that your building or suite is visibly lettered and numbered so that emergency responders can easily find your location in a timely manner. Numbers should contrast with the background used, such as black/white, while the numerals should be no less than six inches in height.

Fire extinguishers should be no more than 75 feet from work areas for easy access, and they should be mounted in a highly visible spot that is easy to get to. Make sure your extinguishers are serviced at least once a year by a licensed fire extinguisher company.

Exits need to be clearly marked with EXIT signage and should be illuminated at all times, with a battery backup for power outages. Exits should also be clear of any obstructions so that people can get out safely and quickly. Emergency lighting should be kept in working order, and the area around the building outside clear of debris and plant material, reducing the fire risk outdoors as well.

Stored materials need to be stacked at least two feet below the ceiling and be orderly. For buildings with an automatic sprinkler system, 18 inches of clearance is required, allowing smoke to collect up high, which gives people adequate time to exit and the sprinklers a clear area for their spray pattern.

Electrical outlets should have no more than one item per outlet plugged in, which may include a power strip with a circuit breaker. All electrical cords should be kept in good repair and replaced when needed.

Trash receptacles need to be kept at least five feet away from combustible roofs, windows, and door openings and not stored in the path of exits.

Have your sprinkler system tested and serviced every 12 months or less by a licensed fire sprinkler company. This practice should also be used for your fire alarm system.

If your business involves cooking foods, make sure your stove hood has been cleaned at least once every year to prevent excessive grease buildup. Ceiling exhaust fans and bathroom heater/light/fan combinations can also be a risk due to a buildup of dust and grease, resulting in increased operating temperatures.

Make sure your local fire department has valid contact information on file for your commercial property.

For more information call SERVPRO of Lufkin/ S. Nacogdoches County at 936-559-0404

Horrible Smoke odor in your Home

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning Smoke Residue is not a DIY Problem

Only SERVPRO offers the very best in restoration services and one of the ways we do that is by using ozone.  

Ozone will neutralize virtually all organic odors, specifically those that contain carbon as their base element. This will include all the bacteria and fungus groups as well as smoke, decay, and cooking odors.  

Ozone is a toxic gas. However, it can be used safely when deployed by specialized generators under proper considerations. The benefits of using ozone for restoration work are fantastic. Smoke odor molecules that infiltrate all porous surfaces can be permanently removed by ozone gas. Only ozone will work on the most stubborn of all odor molecules, that being protein. Odors associated most forms of decay and like freezer failure have long resisted normal chemical deodorizing attempts. Ozone again has the potency to neutralize even these contaminants.  

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Lufkin/ S. Nacogdoches County is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call, and leave the restoration to us.  

-(936) 559-0404 

The Lengths of Fire Damage

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

There can and will be unexpected issues from any business or house fire. The fire itself is devastating, but the damage that comes after the initial fire can be severe. The most common of which, is smoke damage.  

Smoke damage to your Lufkin home or business can leave your walls, ceilings, and other surfaces discolored and warped. These surfaces may have a smoky odor left by the fire, which can even be dangerous for your health. The smell is usually left by particles on partially or fully burned surfaces. The smell can also embed itself into articles of clothing, carpets, and curtains and will require the immediate professional cleaning that only SERVPRO of Lufkin can provide.  

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Lufkin / S. Nacogdoches County is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. We have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us restore your home to pre-fire condition.  

Smoke Damage can be Severe Regardless of the Length of a Fire

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

While this electrical fire was stopped before it could spread too far, the smoke damage was very severe. Smoke damage can be especially destructive and can happen very quickly. In many instances your Lufkin property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts. We specialize in fire and water damage restoration; it’s the cornerstone of our business. We have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Besides the obvious advantage of lower costs, our “restore first” mentality also gets you back into your home or business quicker and with less disruption to your life.

When your Lufkin home or business experiences fire or smoke damage, you need professional help quickly. SERVPRO of Lufkin / S. Nacogdoches County is dedicated to responding immediately, which helps to prevent secondary damage and to reduce the cost of restoration.

Spring is Upon Us Deep East Texas

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

While a big part of our warmer months, barbecuing does bring hazards to your home if not careful. #SERVPROLufkin

While it is true that the possibility for fires is much higher during the cold, winter months, that doesn’t mean that the possibility of fires do not exist in the spring. So, as you dust off the grill and get ready for the many barbecues to come over the next few months, SERVPRO of Lufkin and S. Nacogdoches County wants you to keep an eye on these areas:

Grills

We all know the rush of bringing the grill out after a long, cold winter. But grilling is the largest cause of Spring fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association “an average of 8,900 home fires are caused by grilling each year.” Gas grills are responsible for a higher number of house fires than charcoal grills. Remember to always check and clean your grill before use. Never grill in any space that is enclosed, keep your grill away from the house! And if your grilling with charcoal, only ever use charcoal starter fluid to light your coals.

Following these simple yet helpful instructions will keep you away from the serious dangers that come with grilling. Remember, You want to enjoy cooking out!

Smoke Alarms

More obvious than anything, batteries in your smoke detectors should be changed once a year. An easy way to remember to change them is to fold this task into your Spring cleaning routine. Also, don’t forget to test your smoke detectors(there should be at least one on every floor of the house) every month.

Dryers

When a dryer related fire happens, it is typically caused by forgetting to clean the lent screen. Scooping the screen each and every time you do laundry is an exceptionally easy way to avoid any particular danger. The NFPA also recommends cleaning out the vent pipe at least once a year, so might as well add that to the spring cleaning list, too.

From all of us at SERVPRO of Lufkin and S. Nacogdoches County, we hope you have a great Spring. And if you ever need us, we’re always here and ready to help, so call us at (936)559-0404.

The Potential Causes for Electrical Fires

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

Most electrical fires are caused by faulty electrical outlets and or old, outdated appliances. The following are the most common reasons why electrical fires happen:

1. Old electrical sockets and unsafe appliances

Appliances that are old and overused and those that fall short of modern safety standards are the worst culprits. Frayed electrical cords, self-jointed wires, and worn out sockets that are not properly grounded are major causes of fires. They become ready outlets for directing heat and fire to carpets, rugs, curtains and combustible plastic. Older appliances draw more power than the wall sockets can handle.

2. Using light fixtures that exceed the permissible wattage

A very common cause of fires is plugging lights, lighting appliances and bulbs into electrical sockets that cannot handle higher wattage levels. Antique lighting appliances may have defective wiring that makes the appliance unstable by overheating. Decorating lights with colored paper and cloth shades can increase the risk of fire when the material or fabric heats up.

3. Using multiple appliances plugged into an extension cord

Unrestricted use of extension cords is a major fire hazard. The risk of fire increases when your TV, home theatre, computer and other appliances are all plugged into a single extension cord. This creates excessive power load on a single socket which may not be designed to handle that load.  So, there is a social and economic cost to damaged wiring!

4. Locating portable heaters near combustible materials

Portable space heaters that use coils are potentially dangerous when they are positioned carelessly near curtains and rugs and adjacent to beds and cloth covered furniture. The chances of inflammable material coming into contact with the red-hot coils increase the risk of fire.

5. Wiring that becomes defective with the passage of time

Over a period of time you add more electrical appliances such as wide screen televisions, home theatre, microwave oven, refrigerator and air conditioners. The outdated home wiring cannot handle the increased power load. Older wiring tends to heat up quickly and catches fire. If the breaker boxes are themselves defective, they cannot prevent overheated electrical panels from catching fire.

Smoke Alarm Safety Measures

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms are a fairly low-maintenance household device. However, in order to ensure they are in good working order, there are a few steps that you should perform.

• Make sure you read the manufacturer’s instructions to learn about any special maintenance required for your specific alarm model.
• It is recommended that you test the smoke alarm at least once a month. Normally, this is done by pressing the test button on the center of the device.
• Make sure everyone is familiar with the sound of the alarms, and knows what to do if they hear the alarm.
• The batteries in the smoke alarms should typically be replaced twice a year. A good habit is to change the batteries at the beginning and the end of Daylight Savings Time. If one of your alarms starts to occasionally “chirp”, it means the battery is low and you need to replace it immediately.

Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for your smoke alarms, and never become complacent in their upkeep. With a little periodic maintenance, smoke alarms can save lives.

Christmas Season Safety Measures

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

The Christmas season is in full swing. During this time each year, the traditional Christmas tree fills the family room surrounded by presents. BE CAREFUL - Christmas tree fires are infrequent, but they can happen. Listed below are a few good measures that will help ensure your home’s safety:
• Make sure you pick a healthy tree; trees with brown needles indicate dryness.
• Make sure your tree is placed in a sturdy stand to prevent it from falling over.
• Make sure your stand has an adequate basin for water.
• Make sure to check and water your tree daily.
• Check your lights to make sure they are fire resistant and supported by a national testing organization.
• Keep your trees a safe distance from any heat source.
• Make sure that the lights and any extension cords used are in good working condition; look for and replace damaged wires.
• Check all the bulbs to make sure they are working properly.
• Make sure you have adequate smoke alarms in the area and they are working properly.
The SERVPRO of Lufkin/ S. Nacogdoches County team wants to ensure that everyone has a safe and joyous season. In the unlikely event that a fire were to occur, know that SERVPRO of Lufkin/ S. Nacogdoches County is ready to assist 24/7 by calling 936- 559-0404.

Candle Alternatives for Your Home

11/15/2019 (Permalink)

Candles provide warm light and a refreshing scent in your home. They also pose a credible fire hazard. An unattended candle flame can contact a flammable object and create disastrous fire damage. Even though a fire restoration company can help you bring your home back, candle alternatives can prevent these incidents. Continue reading and consider some of the following options.

1. Oil and Wax Warmers

Warmers are safer solutions that deliver both light and a refreshing scent without an exposed flame. They usually have a small dish with either essential oils or wax. The device, powered by batteries or electricity, heats up the contents, providing aroma and illumination.

2. Electric Candles

If you value the light and aesthetic value that candles give, then you might appreciate electric candles. These items operate on batteries. They largely resemble actual candles and generate around the same amount of light, but they can be left alone with no candle fire risk.

3. Book Lights

When using light mainly for visual purposes like reading, book lights are the perfect candle alternatives. These devices come with clips so you can attach them inside books, near desks or on any convenient area. They give enough reading light without consuming too much energy or disturbing others.

4. Fairy Lights

Fairy lights are another flameless solution. These lights are powered by electricity or batteries and can be spread throughout the room to create relaxed, atmospheric lighting. Fairy lights can last for a long time and come in a variety of colors and shapes.

5. Stick Diffusers

There are several options if you are simply looking for an elegant scent for your home. Stick diffusers deliver a strong fragrance without using any power source. Sticks such as reed absorb the scented oil in the bottle and spread out the pleasant smell.

Though candles may provide both illumination and fragrance for your Lufkin, TX, home, there are plenty of safe candle alternatives. Using any of these items can prevent a candle fire from destroying your house.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup in Lufkin, TX

10/7/2019 (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 Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches County 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 - 936-559-0404

Family Escape Plan

10/4/2019 (Permalink)

Every family needs a fire escape plan, and parents should teach kids safety measures. Be sure to schedule regular drills to make sure kids know how to escape from a home fire.

Make an Escape Plan

The most important fire safety measure is an escape plan. This plan should cover:

• Primary and secondary routes
• Kid-safe strategies
• A meeting point outside

Parents and kids should practice using all escape routes. Kids should know where to go and what to do in the event of a fire.

Bed Rolls

If a child is awoken by a fire alarm, they should know to roll over rather than sit upright. Have kids practice:

• Rolling over in bed
• Keeping their heads low and facing down toward the floor
• Putting a hand down
• Sliding out of bed onto the floor

You may want to sound a fire alarm during drills. Rolling out of bed can limit exposure to heat and smoke.

Fire Crawls

Heat and smoke rise during a fire. Crawling will keep kids in the coolest area with access to the clearest air. There are several types of kids safety fire crawls:

• Crawling on all fours
• Crawling on all fours with flat forearms
• Crawling with legs flat on the floor

These methods can help kids escape a home fire. Practice crawls during drills.

How to Check Doors

Opening a door during a fire without checking can result in burns or sudden ignition. Checking a door involves:

• Pressing a door with the back of a hand
• Leaving hot doors closed
• Cracking open cool or slightly warm doors
• Proceeding if clear and re-closing doors

These fire escape methods are useful for children and adults. Keep in mind that regular drills are necessary for all family members.

After ensuring kids safety, homeowners may be faced with severe damage to a home in Lufkin, Tx. A damage mitigation and restoration service can make it possible for a family to return home as soon as possible.

The Different Types of Fires that can Effect your Lufkin Home

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

1. Class A Fire Damage: Fire damage from a Class A fire is the result of a fire involving flammable solids, including, various plastics, paper, rubber, wood, and cloth.

2. Class B Fire Damage: Class B fire damage consists of damage as a result of flammable liquids or solids that can become liquefied. This includes gasoline and various forms of petrol, oil, various waxes and plastics, and paint. However, fires caused by cooking oils and fats don’t count as Class B.

3. Class C Fire Damage: A Class C fire damage is one involving flammable gasses, including hydrogen, propane, butane, and natural gas.

4. Class D Fire Damage: Class D fire damage consists of fires caused by combustible metals. This may include magnesium, potassium, and sodium.

5. Class E Fire Damage: Class E is fire damage that results from the factors in both Class A and Class B. The difference being, Class involves the introduction of electrical elements, which makes fighting the fire and the resulting damage very different from Class A and Class B.

6. Class F Fire Damage: Class F is a fire that results from cooking oils and fats. This type of fire differs from Class B because these fires are significantly hotter and the damage more severe.

Call SERVPRO of Lufkin/ S. Nacogdoches County at 936-559-0404.

Fires can cause several different types of damage

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke, Mold, and Water Damage can be just as costly as Fire.

Fire Damage

Fire damage is caused by the actual fire. This can include damage to the structure of the property. Often materials are melted and can ignite other materials with this type of damage. 

Fire damage can also cause different toxins to react causing explosions or they can act as accelerant spreading the flames and causing additional damage. 

Water Damage

Water damage is always present with fire damage because the flames have to be extinguished. Often the damage caused by the sprinklers in a building is much more significant than the initial fire damage. 

Smoke Damage

Soot from a fire can be found in every room of a house that has been badly burned, even those rooms that were not burnt. Often homeowner's belongings, furniture, clothes in drawers, important documents, paintings, and more are completely covered in charcoal black soot. Some items are not salvageable and the items that are have to be properly cleaned or the soot can permanently destroy them. 

Mold Damage

After experiencing a house fire, the water damage has to be professionally handled, because when it is not properly dried mold can grow. Mold is a toxin that can cause numerous potential health problems for those living in the property. It is important to make sure the water damage is taken care of by professionals like those at SERVPRO of Lufkin/ S. Nacogdoches County.

Stay Safe This Summer When Grilling!

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Enjoy the fun and sun, stay safe!

Fire in the grill, under hot dogs and burgers, is a welcome sight at the family cookout. But fire anywhere else can make your summer kick-off barbecue memorable for all the wrong reasons. To keep you and your family safe while grilling, follow these general guidelines. Here are some basic tips on how to prepare your grill before your first cookout of the season.

General grilling tips

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.

Propane grills

Before you use your grill:

 Check the major connection points between the gas (propane) tank hose and the regulator and cylinder, and where the hose connects to the burners. Tighten if loose.

• Check the gas (propane) tank hose for the potential (gas) leaks. To do that:
  • Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle.
  • Turn the propane tank on. If there is a gas leak, the propane will release bubbles around the hose (big enough to see).
  • If there are no bubbles, your grill is safe to use.
• If there are bubbles, turn off the tank and check connections, then have your grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
• If the leak doesn’t stop, call the fire department immediately.

When the grill is on:

• As you are cooking, if you smell gas, turn off the gas tank and burners.
• If the leak stops immediately, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
• If the smell continues, move away from the grill and call the fire department immediately. Do not move the grill.

Charcoal grills

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
• There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

What is a Protein Fire?

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Protein fires create an especially unique restoration challenge. Fire damage caused by burnt food can also create odor issues which are difficult to mitigate. Here are some important facts regarding this type of fire.

1. Protein fires generally leave little visible residue, often confusing the untrained observer
2. They create a significantly more repugnant smell than most other fires
3. The nature of the burn causes the odor to permeate structure and furniture even more completely than other fires
4. Require extremely thorough cleaning to remove the odor
5. Sometimes require a sealing agent or even repainting to completely eradicate the odor
6. May require multiple attempts and methods to achieve customer satisfaction

It is also important to recognize that perception of odor is highly individual.  There are no tools available to “measure” smell, and as a result, a homeowner may perceive odors that technicians or even neighbors cannot.  Often times, because of the strong link between smell and memory, a homeowner may experience “phantom odors” where the memory of the event causes reproduction of the odor even after thorough cleaning.

Fire Damage In Your Home Or Business? Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches County to speak to a Fire Mitigation Specialist. 936-637-0404

Fire Damage Goes Beyond Exterior Damage

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage goes far beyond what you can see

There can and will be unexpected issues from any business or house fire. The fire itself is devastating, but the damage that comes after the initial fire can be severe. The most common of which, is smoke damage.  

Smoke damage to your Lufkin home or business can leave your walls, ceilings, and other surfaces discolored and warped. These surfaces may have a smoky odor left by the fire, which can even be dangerous for your health. The smell is usually left by particles on partially or fully burned surfaces. The smell can also embed itself into articles of clothing, carpets, and curtains and will require the immediate professional cleaning that only, SERVPRO of Lufkin, can provide.  

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Lufkin / S. Nacogdoches County is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. We have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us restore your home to pre-fire condition.  

Even When the Fire is Contained Quickly the Smoke Damage can be Severe

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

This electrical office fire was contained and put out very fast, but the smoke damage was quite significant.

While this electrical fire was stopped before it could spread too far, the smoke damage was very severe. Smoke damage can be especially destructive and can happen very quickly. In many instances your Lufkin property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts. We specialize in fire and water damage restoration; it’s the cornerstone of our business. We have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Besides the obvious advantage of lower costs, our “restore first” mentality also gets you back into your home or business quicker and with less disruption to your life.

When your Lufkin home or business experiences fire or smoke damage, you need professional help quickly. SERVPRO of Lufkin / S. Nacogdoches County is dedicated to responding immediately, which helps to prevent secondary damage and to reduce the cost of restoration.

Spring is Here! How to Avoid Spring Fires.

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

While a big part of our warmer months, barbecuing does bring hazards to your home if not careful.

While it is true that the possibility for fires is much higher during the cold, winter months, that doesn’t mean that the possibility of fires do not exist in the spring. So, as you dust off the grill and get ready for the many barbecues to come over the next few months, SERVPRO of Lufkin and S. Nacogdoches County wants you to keep an eye on these areas:

Grills

We all know the rush of bringing the grill out after a long, cold winter. But grilling is the largest cause of Spring fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association “an average of 8,900 home fires are caused by grilling each year.” Gas grills are responsible for a higher number of house fires than charcoal grills. Remember to always check and clean your grill before use. Never grill in any space that is enclosed, keep your grill away from the house! And if your grilling with charcoal, only ever use charcoal starter fluid to light your coals.

Following these simple yet helpful instructions will keep you away from the serious dangers that come with grilling. Remember, You want to enjoy cooking out!

Smoke Alarms

More obvious than anything, batteries in your smoke detectors should be changed once a year. An easy way to remember to change them is to fold this task into your Spring cleaning routine. Also, don’t forget to test your smoke detectors(there should be at least one on every floor of the house) every month.

Dryers

When a dryer related fire happens, it is typically caused by forgetting to clean the lent screen. Scooping the screen each and every time you do laundry is an exceptionally easy way to avoid any particular danger. The NFPA also recommends cleaning out the vent pipe at least once a year, so might as well add that to the spring cleaning list, too.

From all of us at SERVPRO of Lufkin and S. Nacogdoches County, we hope you have a great Spring. And if you ever need us, we’re always here and ready to help, so call us at (936)637-0404.

Where Do You Begin When You Need Fire Damage Repair?

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

If you need fire or smoke damage repairs in Lufkin or Nacogdoches, call a professional fire and smoke restoration specialist like SERVPRO of Lufkin.

About 380,000 people needed fire damage repair in their homes after an accidental or unintentional fire, according to the latest statistics from the U.S. Fire Administration. Cooking accidents, heating issues, and electrical malfunctions account for close to 70% of all residential home fires. If you need fire or smoke damage repairs in Lufkin or Nacogdoches, call a professional fire and smoke restoration specialist like SERVPRO of Lufkin / S. Nacogdoches County Fire Damage Repair and Restoration. 

Fire Prevention

Removing fire damage, soot, and smoke from walls, ceilings, and floors is a not a simple task. Take the following steps to minimize the risk of fire and smoke damage to your home in the future.

1. Electrical - Check and replace damaged electrical outlets, plugs, cords, and wires regularly and do not keep them covered or pinched against a wall. Avoid overloading your homes circuit system and use surge protectors rather than unprotected power strips.
2. Kitchen – Often overlooked as part of a kitchen setup is the fire extinguisher. Keep one in close reach and prepare yourself to use it. Most ovens have a self-cleaning button; use it regularly to prevent buildup. Keep the stovetop clean to minimize grease fires.
3. Appliances - A clothes dryer holds lint and many other appliances with a fan or motor suck in dust and other particles. Clear the filter of lint after each load and the dryer vent often. Clean under all appliances regularly to prevent buildup.
4. Other fire causes include smoking, placing grills less than 10 feet away from your home, and children’s curiosity.

Protein Fires in Lufkin Texas: What Are They and How Are They Treated?

7/3/2018 (Permalink)

Protein Fires in Lufkin Texas: What Are They and How Are They Treated?

Protein fires create an especially unique restoration challenge. Fire damage caused by burnt food can also create odor issues which are difficult to mitigate. Here are some important facts regarding this type of fire.

1. Protein fires generally leave little visible residue, often confusing the untrained observer
2. They create a significantly more repugnant smell than most other fires
3. The nature of the burn causes the odor to permeate structure and furniture even more completely than other fires
4. Require extremely thorough cleaning to remove the odor
5. Sometimes require a sealing agent or even repainting to completely eradicate the odor
6. May require multiple attempts and methods to achieve customer satisfaction

It is also important to recognize that perception of odor is highly individual.  There are no tools available to “measure” smell, and as a result, a homeowner may perceive odors that technicians or even neighbors cannot.  Often times, because of the strong link between smell and memory, a homeowner may experience “phantom odors” where the memory of the event causes reproduction of the odor even after thorough cleaning.

Fire Damage In Your Home Or Business? Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lukin/S. Nacogdoches County to speak to a Fire Mitigation Specialist. 936-637-0404

Summer Grilling Safety Tips

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Don't let this happen to you... Some basic tips on how to prepare your grill before your first cookout of the season.

General grilling tips

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.

Propane grills

Before you use your grill:

 Check the major connection points between the gas (propane) tank hose and the regulator and cylinder, and where the hose connects to the burners. Tighten if loose.

• Check the gas (propane) tank hose for the potential (gas) leaks. To do that:
  • Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle.
  • Turn the propane tank on. If there is a gas leak, the propane will release bubbles around the hose (big enough to see).
  • If there are no bubbles, your grill is safe to use.
• If there are bubbles, turn off the tank and check connections, then have your grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
• If the leak doesn’t stop, call the fire department immediately.

When the grill is on:

• As you are cooking, if you smell gas, turn off the gas tank and burners.
• If the leak stops immediately, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
• If the smell continues, move away from the grill and call the fire department immediately. Do not move the grill.

Charcoal grills

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
• There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

Source: Guy Colonna, NFPA Division Manager, Industrial & Chemical Engineering

How do We Neutralize Smoke Odors?

6/5/2018 (Permalink)

One of our SERVPRO ozone treatment rooms.

Only SERVPRO offers the very best in restoration services and one of the ways we do that is by using ozone.  

Ozone will neutralize virtually all organic odors, specifically those that contain carbon as their base element. This will include all the bacteria and fungus groups as well as smoke, decay, and cooking odors.  

Ozone is a toxic gas. However, it can be used safely when deployed by specialized generators under proper considerations. The benefits of using ozone for restoration work are fantastic. Smoke odor molecules that infiltrate all porous surfaces can be permanently removed by ozone gas. Only ozone will work on the most stubborn of all odor molecules, that being protein. Odors associated most forms of decay and like freezer failure have long resisted normal chemical deodorizing attempts. Ozone again has the potency to neutralize even these contaminants.  -

Info from: www.ozonesolutions.com 

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Lufkin / S. Nacogdoches County is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call, and leave the restoration to us.  

-(936) 559-0404 

Fire Can Cause More Damage to Your Lufkin Home Than You Think.

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke damage needs professional cleaning in order to be properly taken care of.

There can and will be unexpected issues from any business or house fire. The fire itself is devastating, but the damage that comes after the initial fire can be severe. The most common of which, is smoke damage.  

Smoke damage to your Lufkin home or business can leave your walls, ceilings, and other surfaces discolored and warped. These surfaces may have a smoky odor left by the fire, which can even be dangerous for your health. The smell is usually left by particles on partially or fully burned surfaces. The smell can also embed itself into articles of clothing, carpets, and curtains and will require the immediate professional cleaning that only, SERVPRO of Lufkin, can provide.  

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Lufkin / S. Nacogdoches County is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. We have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us restore your home to pre-fire condition.  

Even When the Fire is Contained Quickly the Smoke Damage can be Severe

5/31/2018 (Permalink)

This electrical office fire was contained and put out very fast, but the smoke damage was quite significant.

While this electrical fire was stopped before it could spread too far, the smoke damage was very severe. Smoke damage can be especially destructive and can happen very quickly. In many instances your Lufkin property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts. We specialize in fire and water damage restoration; it’s the cornerstone of our business. We have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Besides the obvious advantage of lower costs, our “restore first” mentality also gets you back into your home or business quicker and with less disruption to your life.

When your Lufkin home or business experiences fire or smoke damage, you need professional help quickly. SERVPRO of Lufkin / S. Nacogdoches County is dedicated to responding immediately, which helps to prevent secondary damage and to reduce the cost of restoration.

Soot Cleanup & Removal Tips

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

Need soot cleaning or fire restoration services in Nacogdoches County?

Soot is the black residue left behind on fireplace walls and charcoal grills after the flames go out. A house fire creates a great deal of it because wood, plaster, natural fibers, synthetics, foams and plastics all create soot when they burn and most homes are full of these materials. Soot sticks to any surface that’s cooler than the fire itself, usually walls, ceilings and other hard surfaces.

Different types of fires produce different types of soot, which require different cleaning methods, so it’s best to leave it to the professionals. High oxygen fires produce soot that is best cleaned with a dry cleaning sponge or dry chemical sponge.  Low oxygen fires can be cleaned with a wet sponge. However, if soot from a high oxygen fire is cleaned with a wet sponge, it can smear and cause even more damage. If you do decide to vacuum up soot before the professionals arrive, do not use an ordinary household vacuum cleaner, which is not designed for that type of cleaning. Use a shop vac, or other type of heavy duty vacuum cleaner. Always hold the nozzle about a half inch away from the surface that’s being cleaned. Making contact with the soot can smear it and make an even bigger mess.

While waiting for experts to arrive, there are a few things to keep in mind.

• Never touch anything during your initial inspection, to avoid spreading the soot.
• Wear gloves, a mask and long sleeves and pants when working in soot covered room to protect your skin and lungs.
• Keep the room ventilated to minimize breathing in soot particles and allow smoky smells to dissipate.
• Remove as much debris as possible to allow for easy cleanup.

If you’ve just experienced a fire at your home or business in the Nacogdoches County area, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches County. 

Call Today (936) 559-0404

A Thank You to all Firefighters

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Firefighters, real life heroes in our communities. Thank you for you all that you do.

On May 4^th, 2018 we will be celebrating International Firefighters Day (IFFD). It is a day to pay our respects to all the firefighters of the past and present who have, and continue to risk their lives.  Every firefighter, man or woman, deserves recognition.

The job of a firefighter is an extremely selfless job.  Often, the rewards a firefighter gets are not that of material possession.  It is an intangible reward.  It can be something as simple as the look in a survivors eyes whom they’ve helped rescue. Or a grateful, joyous smile of a child as a family is reunited, safe and sound.

As a firefighter, it can be a self-esteem boost to know that your actions have made a positive impact in another person’s life.  Few things can compare to the sense of pride in one’s community, to know that their constant efforts help to protect the community that they endear. This profession helps to create strong, informal leaders of mankind, and a parental figure to those in a time of need.

Although these rewards are not a physical possession to be held, they are much harder to obtain than diamonds. The value of such an internally personal reward cannot be measured by any current system in existence.  This is why we must take the time to pay homage to all of the men and women who constitute the firefighter departments around the world. For although we may not be able to give them anything of material possession, a showing of gratitude, respect, and a sincere appreciation is the least we can do for these extraordinary members of our society, whom help protect human lives all around the world.

So on behalf of all of us at SERVPRO of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches County: thank you to all of the men and women who serve and protect their communities all over the world. 

MAY THE FOURTH BE WITH YOU!

Fires Could Happen in Your Nacogdoches Home in an Instant

2/8/2018 (Permalink)

The oven had only been left without supervision for no more than 15 minutes.

Leaving your oven on accidently can do more damage than you think.  Leaving the house with your oven on seems like something that most of us have done and will continue to do. A Nacogdoches family just recently had the worst-case scenario happen to them when they had left the oven on and left the house for no more than 15 minutes and it had erupted into flames. Luckily, they came back quickly and were able to stop it with a fire extinguisher. But if they had just simply left the house to go the grocery store and were gone for just 15 min more, their entire home could have been affected. Just remember to double check before leaving your home. Fire damage to your home could be detrimental but the restoration process begins when you call us, SERVPRO. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

To learn more about fire restoration: SERVPRO Fire Restoration

Fire And Smoke Damage Is Especially Destructive To Your Business

7/12/2017 (Permalink)

More than half of all structure fires occurred in one-and two-family homes.

Fire and smoke damage is especially destructive. In many instances your Lufkin property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts. We specialize in fire and water damage restoration; it’s the cornerstone of our business. We have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us restore your home to pre-fire condition.

We understand you may be feeling confused, stressed, and more than a little vulnerable. Our technicians will treat your family with empathy and your home with great care. Until help arrives, please refer to our Fire Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

EVERY YEAR, NFPA surveys a sample of public fire departments in the United States, stratified by the size of the community they protect, to project national estimates of the country’s fire problem. Based upon the data we received in response to our 2015 National Fire Experience Survey, we estimate that public fire departments in the U.S. responded to 1,345,500 fires last year, a highly significant increase of 3.7 percent from 2014.

Preventing A Kitchen Fire

6/15/2017 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire In Lufkin

Did you know the kitchen is where more home fires occur than anywhere else in the house and that cooking is the number one cause of home fires? The American Red Cross has steps everyone can follow to avoid a cooking fire:

1. Never leave cooking food unattended – stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If you have to leave the kitchen, even for a second, turn off the stove.

2. Check your food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking.

3. Use a timer so you’ll remember that the stove or oven is on.

4. Don’t wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.

5. Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.

To learn how to prevent a fire in your home and how to keep members of your household safe, you can take our cooking safety quiz and download the Red Cross Fire Prevention and Safety Checklist. Downloadable fact sheets are also available on how to avoid home heating fires, candle safety, proper use of smoke alarms and teaching your children what to do in the event of a fire. 

SERVPRO's Patrick Castillo is certified by the Citizens Fire Department.

5/25/2017 (Permalink)

After 13 weeks of study and work, Patrick receives his Citizens Fire Department Certificate.

SERVPRO is very proud of our employee Patrick Castillo for dedicating his time and working hard for thirteen weeks to earn his Citizens Fire Academy Certificate!

The Citizens Fire Academy is designed to provide interested community members with a working knowledge of Nacogdoches Fire and Rescue. Through the Citizens Fire Academy, the department offers its cadets insight into how firefighters perform their duties, as well as the many other ways the department serves the community. Upon completion of this program, participants will be educated in the many services provided by the fire department, its operating procedures and its purpose. 

 From the Nacogdoches page <https://www.ci.nacogdoches.tx.us/953/Citizens-Fire-Academy>

Patrick is an expert in fire and water restoration, and also in local fire departments procedures and services.

Are you and your Nacogdoches home prepared for a fire?

5/23/2017 (Permalink)

Fire damage is quick and in some cases can be irreversible.

Did you know that if a fire starts in your home you may have as little as two minutes to escape? During a fire, early warning from a working smoke alarm plus a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives. Learn what else to do to keep your loved ones safe!

Top Tips for Fire Safety

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.


• Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, change the batteries.


• Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.


• If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP. 

• Never go back inside for anything or anyone.

 Tips from the American Red Cross <http://www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire>

 And after you’ve done all you can, executed your fire safety plan and the fire is put out, remember that SERVPRO is dedicated to responding immediately, day or night, to your home or business. A faster response helps to prevent secondary damage and to reduce cost.

Learn more here: SERVPRO fire damage and restoration

My property just caught on fire, now what?

5/18/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals clean and restore your property using specialized equipment and cleaning techniques.

Need Smoke and Soot Cleanup in Lufkin or Nacogdoches?

2/9/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Lufkin or Nacogdoches Home.

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 [[Franchise Name]] 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 – 936-559-0404 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

Lufkin and Nacogdoches Smoke and Soot Cleanup

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Lufkin or Nacogdoches Home.

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 Lufkin / Nacogdoches 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 – 936-559-0404 or 936-637-0404

Fire/Smoke Damage Cleanup and Restoration at Mast Motorsports

1/21/2016 (Permalink)

A Mast Thank You to SERVPRO for making it "like it never even happened".

Fire Cleanup and Restoration Mast Motorsports in Nacogdoches, TX suffered heavy smoke/soot damage. While the fire was contained to a small area the entire mega warehouse and office space were affected. Every square inch needed cleaning from top to bottom. High Performance inventory needed to be cleaned and protected to prevent further damage. Our specialized fire crew teams moved into action and lessened their impact on production. A large project requires a team large enough to make it "Like it never even happened.”

No business plans on a fire damaging or disrupting their business. By utilizing SERVPRO’s free consulting services, you can be prepared for whatever happens next. Schedule your free Emergency Ready Profile today 936-559-0404 in Nacagdoches or 936-637-0404 in Lufkin.

Emergency Ready Plan Intro