Fire Extinguisher

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

You could save your home from fire with a fire extinguisher at your ready.

Close your eyes and imagine. You’re at home, or maybe in the office, and you smell ... smoke? Definitely smoke. Fire! You don’t panic, because you’re not the type and you’re prepared. You grab the nearest fire extinguisher, find the flames. You get ready, aim.... and suddenly realize you don’t know how this thing works.

Fire extinguishers can be the first line of defense if fire breaks out in your home or business, but they won’t do you any good if you don’t know how to use them or have the wrong extinguisher for the job. When it comes to fire, plan, prepare and remain calm. Knowing how, when and why to use your fire extinguisher—not to mention which fire extinguisher to use—will increase both your safety and peace of mind knowing you can protect you and your belonging from fire damage.

When to Use a Fire Extinguisher
Home or office, when a fire breaks out you have moments to decide: fight or flight? If you feel even the slightest doubt about handling it yourself, move everyone to a safe place and call 911. Ditto if you don’t know how to use your extinguisher or aren’t sure it’s the right class for the fire you’re fighting; better to let the pros handle it than to try to navigate the learning curve mid-fire.

If you decide you can safely put out the fire, grab the extinguisher and get busy, after you locate a safe way out. If you spot a clear exit but it doesn’t look to stay clear long, get out now.

What Kind of Extinguisher to Use
Home- and business owners can choose from five types of fire extinguishers:

• Class A: for a fire involving normal combustibles and flammables, including cloth, paper and wood
• Class B: for a fire involving flammable liquids like gas, oil, paint, paint thinner and solvents
• Class C: to fight a fire involving electrical equipment/appliances that are plugged in and receiving power—electric drills, table saws, computer equipment, televisions, wiring and fuse boxes, for example
• Class D: to put out a fire involving combustible metals—magnesium, sodium, zirconium, etc. (Note: Don’t try to fight this kind of fire unless you’ve been specifically trained for it!)
• Class K: for fires typically found in restaurants, involving cooking oil and commercial-grade cooking equipment

Some fires involve several or all of the above. Fortunately, fire extinguishers are labeled not only with the types of fire they’re designed to fight, but with the types of fire you should avoid using them on. Example: Never use a Class A extinguisher on a Class B or C fire—the results could be deadly!

Fire Extinguisher How-to

1. Stand six to eight feet away from the flames.
2. Make sure you have a clear exit, in case the fire spreads or flames out of control.
3. Pull the pin to unlock the operating lever.
4. Aim the hose at the base of the fire.
5. Press the lever located above the handle to release the agent.
6. Use a back-and-forth sweeping motion to saturate the base of the fire until the flames are extinguished.
7. Continue the process if the fire re-ignites.
8. If the fire doesn’t go out or spreads, get to safety.

Extinguisher Safety Tips

• Install fire extinguishers in areas where fires are likely to break out, including kitchens and break rooms.
• Check periodically to make sure all fire extinguishers are fully charged.
• Show every family member or employee where the fire extinguishers and fire alarms are located.
• Train yourself, your loved ones and your co-workers to use the equipment properly.

Even with a fire extinguisher, some fire damage will occur. When this happens, call your local SERVPRO at 601-425-0119. 

The costly affects of a fire in your home.

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Fire is one of our most valuable resources.  We use it to cook our food, heat our homes, power our world and so much more.  However, when it comes to our homes, fire can also be one of our worst enemies.  Each year, according to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), nearly 358,300 home-owners experience a fire.  Nearly, $10.3 billion in property damage and 3,280 deaths were due to residential fires in 2015 alone.  Residential fires accounted for three-quarters of all structure fires during 2015.  At SERVPRO of Laurel, we have seen first-hand the devastation that fire can cause.  We take pride in helping customers get their lives back on track in the wake of a disaster; but our wish is that they never go through that experience.  Knowledge is power when it comes to prevention and we want to share information that can help you protect your home.  Cooking is the leading cause of residential fires followed by home heating.  When cooking be sure to never leave anything on or near the stove and use caution when frying.  If you have central heating, make sure to have ducts cleaned regularly to prevent buildup and reduce the chance of fire. Dryer vents should also be cleaned annually.  Clothes dryers cause an estimated 2,900 fires each year, causing over $35 million in property losses. Call us today at (601)425-0119 to schedule your HVAC or dryer vent cleaning and protect your home.

The costly affects of a fire in your home.

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

Fire is one of our most valuable resources.  We use it to cook our food, heat our homes, power our world and so much more.  However, when it comes to our homes, fire can also be one of our worst enemies.  Each year, according to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), nearly 358,300 home-owners experience a fire.  Nearly, $10.3 billion in property damage and 3,280 deaths were due to residential fires in 2015 alone.  Residential fires accounted for three-quarters of all structure fires during 2015.  At SERVPRO of Laurel, we have seen first-hand the devastation that fire can cause.  We take pride in helping customers get their lives back on track in the wake of a disaster; but our wish is that they never go through that experience.  Knowledge is power when it comes to prevention and we want to share information that can help you protect your home.  Cooking is the leading cause of residential fires followed by home heating.  When cooking be sure to never leave anything on or near the stove and use caution when frying.  If you have central heating, make sure to have ducts cleaned regularly to prevent buildup and reduce the chance of fire. Dryer vents should also be cleaned annually.  Clothes dryers cause an estimated 2,900 fires each year, causing over $35 million in property losses. Call us today at (601)425-0119 to schedule your HVAC or dryer vent cleaning and protect your home.

Grease Fire 101

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Grease fires happen quickly. You may be frying some bacon or chicken and all of a sudden your kitchen is on fire. Do you know how to put out a grease fire?

There are several things that can and should be done, as long as it is safe to do them:

1. Turn off the heat source.

2. Cover the flames with a metal lid. This works for small grease fires. Fire has to have oxygen to survive and placing a lid over the flames will cut off the oxygen supply causing the flames to extinguish themselves. 

3. Pour baking soda on the flames. This only works for small fires. But a word of caution, it will take a large amount to extinguish small flames. 

4. As a last resort, or if the flames are too large for the previously mentioned methods, use a Class B Dry Chemical fire extinguisher. Use of a fire extinguisher will result in much more clean up needed, but it's better than letting a grease fire destroy your entire home. 

5. Call 9-1-1. 

NEVER, use water to try and put out a grease fire. This will cause the grease to splatter and the fire to spread. Also, do not move the pot/skillet around, as this could cause the fire to spread as well. 

Every 18 Seconds

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Every 18 seconds a fire occurs somewhere in the U.S.! After experiencing such an event our hearts usually are overwhelmed with the long process of recovery. SERVPRO of Laurel can help alleviate much of the burden of cleaning up and restoring your business, home, and belongings. After a fire SERVPRO will begin to assess your needs. SERVPRO determines what your needs are and then assesses what is restorable and what methods will be used in restoration. The structure and contents will be cleaned by trained experts using either wet or dry cleaning. All restorable contents are cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, draperies, and upholstery. Additionally, all other restorable content such as electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric and brac, and much more will be cleaned and deodorized as well.

Why not set your mind at ease by being prepared for the possibility of a fire? Familiarize yourself with the professionals at SERVPRO of Laurel.

(601) 425-0119

Do you have a Fire Extinguisher?

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

You could save your home from fire with a fire extinguisher at your ready.

Close your eyes and imagine. You’re at home, or maybe in the office, and you smell ... smoke? Definitely smoke. Fire! You don’t panic, because you’re not the type and you’re prepared. You grab the nearest fire extinguisher, find the flames. You get ready, aim.... and suddenly realize you don’t know how this thing works.

Fire extinguishers can be the first line of defense if fire breaks out in your home or business, but they won’t do you any good if you don’t know how to use them or have the wrong extinguisher for the job. When it comes to fire, plan, prepare and remain calm. Knowing how, when and why to use your fire extinguisher—not to mention which fire extinguisher to use—will increase both your safety and peace of mind knowing you can protect you and your belonging from fire damage.

When to Use a Fire Extinguisher
Home or office, when a fire breaks out you have moments to decide: fight or flight? If you feel even the slightest doubt about handling it yourself, move everyone to a safe place and call 911. Ditto if you don’t know how to use your extinguisher or aren’t sure it’s the right class for the fire you’re fighting; better to let the pros handle it than to try to navigate the learning curve mid-fire.

If you decide you can safely put out the fire, grab the extinguisher and get busy, after you locate a safe way out. If you spot a clear exit but it doesn’t look to stay clear long, get out now.

What Kind of Extinguisher to Use
Home- and business owners can choose from five types of fire extinguishers:

• Class A: for a fire involving normal combustibles and flammables, including cloth, paper and wood
• Class B: for a fire involving flammable liquids like gas, oil, paint, paint thinner and solvents
• Class C: to fight a fire involving electrical equipment/appliances that are plugged in and receiving power—electric drills, table saws, computer equipment, televisions, wiring and fuse boxes, for example
• Class D: to put out a fire involving combustible metals—magnesium, sodium, zirconium, etc. (Note: Don’t try to fight this kind of fire unless you’ve been specifically trained for it!)
• Class K: for fires typically found in restaurants, involving cooking oil and commercial-grade cooking equipment

Some fires involve several or all of the above. Fortunately, fire extinguishers are labeled not only with the types of fire they’re designed to fight, but with the types of fire you should avoid using them on. Example: Never use a Class A extinguisher on a Class B or C fire—the results could be deadly!

Fire Extinguisher How-to

1. Stand six to eight feet away from the flames.
2. Make sure you have a clear exit, in case the fire spreads or flames out of control.
3. Pull the pin to unlock the operating lever.
4. Aim the hose at the base of the fire.
5. Press the lever located above the handle to release the agent.
6. Use a back-and-forth sweeping motion to saturate the base of the fire until the flames are extinguished.
7. Continue the process if the fire re-ignites.
8. If the fire doesn’t go out or spreads, get to safety.

Extinguisher Safety Tips

• Install fire extinguishers in areas where fires are likely to break out, including kitchens and break rooms.
• Check periodically to make sure all fire extinguishers are fully charged.
• Show every family member or employee where the fire extinguishers and fire alarms are located.
• Train yourself, your loved ones and your co-workers to use the equipment properly.

Even with a fire extinguisher, some fire damage will occur. When this happens, call your local SERVPRO at 601-425-0119.

Choosing to Restore versus Replace.

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

When you need residential fire damage services, you should contact a locally owned and operated professional that can quickly diagnose the exact nature of your problem and then get right to work on solving it. Fire and smoke are particularly destructive forces that can gut a structure and cause it to be condemned. If your property is suffering from this sort of damage, you may need immediate help to salvage it.

You'll Need a Company That Specializes in Fire Damage Restoration:

After any damage has occurred, you should contact a company immediately for an initial diagnosis. This will then be followed by a team getting directly to work on cleaning up and fully restoring the affected area. Cleanup, removal of debris, neutralization of remaining odors, and purifying of the air can commence quickly to prevent any further health problems that often arise after fire damage.

Concentrate on Restoration Rather Than Replacement:

The focus of good restoration service should always fixate on restoring your property rather than replacing it. When possible, it's better to isolate quickly and neutralize any issues rather than replacing your entire property. Restoration not only costs you less money in the long run, but it also allows you to quickly get back to living your life faster. If parts of the property do need to be completely rebuilt, talk to the company about timelines for the areas that are fixable first, and then concentrate on the areas that need to be entirely redone.

What to Expect from Any Service:

A reputable restoration service will do an immediate assessment of the damage, followed by board up and tarp service if required. From there, they will remove all affected material and begin airing out and drying the general area. Once all of the debris, smoke, and soot has been eliminated from the area, they can begin restoring your property back to pristine condition.

What to Look For:

It's best to hire a locally owned company that has a focus and connection to your community. You should also ensure that the service personnel you are dealing with are fully qualified, trained, and experienced at diagnosing and solving the problems that affect your property. When you are dealing with severe fire and smoke damage, you want to make sure the company you choose can handle the scope of the project and will help you handle any problems that come up.


SERVPRO of Laurel is a locally owned and operated authority for residential fire damage cleanup and restoration. When fire damage threatens properties in the counties of Jones, Wayne, Covington, and Jeff Davis counties, we can help. Contact us now for a prompt response to your fire damage emergency at 601-425-0119.

Season to be aware for fire damage.

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

We often hear about a particular time of the year as being the “season for house fires,” meaning house fire disasters are on the rise from that month forward.  It is usually associated with colder weather when we start to use more home heating.  When it comes to your home, however, there is no “season” for a fire.  It can strike at any time.  The sad fact is that 2,500 people will be killed in fires over the next year.  13,000 people will suffer serious injuries related to fires and the loss of property – in terms of real dollars – will be more than $7 Billion!

SERVPRO of Laurel provides expert restoration services if you have experienced a house fire.  If that is your situation now, please call (601) 425-0199 so we can begin restoring your home.  The residue left from a fire, known as soot, presents hidden dangers if not properly removed from your home and your possessions.  Soot is acidic in nature and within hours to days, it will begin to decay or even destroy whatever surface it comes in contact with.

Our homes are a collection of different types of materials, all of which represent unique risks once they have been exposed to the heat from a fire.  The structure itself is composed of wood and sheetrock.  Electrical wiring is wrapped with plastics and rubber.  Insulation is found in attics and behind walls.  Floors are made of wooden materials that have been coated with chemicals to preserve their beauty, or covered with synthetic materials found in carpets.  Each presents its own set of risks.  The water used to extinguish the fire also presents a different set of problems for furniture that comes in contact with it and personal belongings left on floors. 

SERVPRO of Laurel technicians are trained to determine what can be salvaged and what needs to be discarded.  Each home contains items of sentimental value like pictures and heirlooms.  Until help arrives, pictures need to be removed from glass frames as quickly as possible so they can dry unless they have become stuck to the glass.  Valuable items like jewelry, weapons, ammunition, financial papers and other personal items should be removed from the home for safe keeping. 

Our restoration specialists treat the damaged contents of your home with the utmost respect and care.  Once cleaned and restored, we will safely store your property until your home is ready for your return.  Our job is to make your loss “Like it never even happened.” 

House Fire Season

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

We often hear about a particular time of the year as being the “season for house fires,” meaning house fire disasters are on the rise from that month forward.  It is usually associated with colder weather when we start to use more home heating.  When it comes to your home, however, there is no “season” for a fire.  It can strike at any time.  The sad fact is that 2,500 people will be killed in fires over the next year.  13,000 people will suffer serious injuries related to fires and the loss of property – in terms of real dollars – will be more than $7 Billion!

SERVPRO of Laurel provides expert restoration services if you have experienced a house fire.  If that is your situation now, please call (601) 425-0199 so we can begin restoring your home.  The residue left from a fire, known as soot, presents hidden dangers if not properly removed from your home and your possessions.  Soot is acidic in nature and within hours to days, it will begin to decay or even destroy whatever surface it comes in contact with.

Our homes are a collection of different types of materials, all of which represent unique risks once they have been exposed to the heat from a fire.  The structure itself is composed of wood and sheetrock.  Electrical wiring is wrapped with plastics and rubber.  Insulation is found in attics and behind walls.  Floors are made of wooden materials that have been coated with chemicals to preserve their beauty, or covered with synthetic materials found in carpets.  Each presents its own set of risks.  The water used to extinguish the fire also presents a different set of problems for furniture that comes in contact with it and personal belongings left on floors. 

SERVPRO of Laurel technicians are trained to determine what can be salvaged and what needs to be discarded.  Each home contains items of sentimental value like pictures and heirlooms.  Until help arrives, pictures need to be removed from glass frames as quickly as possible so they can dry unless they have become stuck to the glass.  Valuable items like jewelry, weapons, ammunition, financial papers and other personal items should be removed from the home for safe keeping. 

Our restoration specialists treat the damaged contents of your home with the utmost respect and care.  Once cleaned and restored, we will safely store your property until your home is ready for your return.  Our job is to make your loss “Like it never even happened.” 

Every 18 Seconds

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

Every 18 seconds a fire occurs somewhere in the U.S.! After experiencing such an event our hearts usually are overwhelmed with the long process of recovery. SERVPRO of Laurel can help alleviate much of the burden of cleaning up and restoring your business, home, and belongings. After a fire SERVPRO will begin to assess your needs. SERVPRO determines what your needs are and then assesses what is restorable and what methods will be used in restoration. The structure and contents will be cleaned by trained experts using either wet or dry cleaning. All restorable contents are cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, draperies, and upholstery. Additionally, all other restorable content such as electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric and brac, and much more will be cleaned and deodorized as well.

Why not set your mind at ease by being prepared for the possibility of a fire? Familiarize yourself with the professionals at SERVPRO of Laurel.

(601) 425-0119

How to clean up after a fire.

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

The photo shows the process of cleaning smoke and soot from fire damaged walls. If your home or business has a fire, call - SERVPRO of Laurel.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

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, SERVPROof Laurel 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 (601)-425-0119

Do you have a Fire Extinguisher?

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

Having a fire extinguisher available can be a first line of defense if a fire happens in your home or business.

You could save your home from fire with a fire extinguisher at your ready.

Close your eyes and imagine. You’re at home, or maybe in the office, and you smell ... smoke? Definitely smoke. Fire! You don’t panic, because you’re not the type and you’re prepared. You grab the nearest fire estinguisher, find the flames. You get ready, aim.... and suddenly realize you don’t know how this thing works.

Fire extinguishers can be the first line of defense if fire breaks out in your home or business, but they won’t do you any good if you don’t know how to use them or have the wrong extinguisher for the job. When it comes to fire, plan, prepare and remain calm. Knowing how, when and why to use your fire extinguisher—not to mention which fire extinguisher to use—will increase both your safety and peace of mind knowing you can protect you and your belonging from fire damage.

When to Use a Fire Extinguisher
Home or office, when a fire breaks out you have moments to decide: fight or flight? If you feel even the slightest doubt about handling it yourself, move everyone to a safe place and call 911. Ditto if you don’t know how to use your extinguisher or aren’t sure it’s the right class for the fire you’re fighting; better to let the pros handle it than to try to navigate the learning curve mid-fire.

If you decide you can safely put out the fire, grab the extinguisher and get busy, after you locate a safe way out. If you spot a clear exit but it doesn’t look to stay clear long, get out now.

What Kind of Extinguisher to Use
Home- and business owners can choose from five types of fire extinguishers:

• Class A: for a fire involving normal combustibles and flammables, including cloth, paper and wood
• Class B: for a fire involving flammable liquids like gas, oil, paint, paint thinner and solvents
• Class C: to fight a fire involving electrical equipment/appliances that are plugged in and receiving power—electric drills, table saws, computer equipment, televisions, wiring and fuse boxes, for example
• Class D: to put out a fire involving combustible metals—magnesium, sodium, zirconium, etc. (Note: Don’t try to fight this kind of fire unless you’ve been specifically trained for it!)
• Class K: for fires typically found in restaurants, involving cooking oil and commercial-grade cooking equipment

Some fires involve several or all of the above. Fortunately, fire extinguishers are labeled not only with the types of fire they’re designed to fight, but with the types of fire you should avoid using them on. Example: Never use a Class A extinguisher on a Class B or C fire—the results could be deadly!

Fire Extinguisher How-to

1. Stand six to eight feet away from the flames.
2. Make sure you have a clear exit, in case the fire spreads or flames out of control.
3. Pull the pin to unlock the operating lever.
4. Aim the hose at the base of the fire.
5. Press the lever located above the handle to release the agent.
6. Use a back-and-forth sweeping motion to saturate the base of the fire until the flames are extinguished.
7. Continue the process if the fire re-ignites.
8. If the fire doesn’t go out or spreads, get to safety.

Extinguisher Safety Tips

• Install fire extinguishers in areas where fires are likely to break out, including kitchens and break rooms.
• Check periodically to make sure all fire extinguishers are fully charged.
• Show every family member or employee where the fire extinguishers and fire alarms are located.
• Train yourself, your loved ones and your co-workers to use the equipment properly.

Even with a fire extinguisher, some fire damage will occur. When this happens, call your local SERVPRO at 601-425-0119. 

The costly affects of a fire in your home.

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel is ready help you return life back to normal if you experience a fire in your home or business.

Fire is one of our most valuable resources.  We use it to cook our food, heat our homes, power our world and so much more.  However, when it comes to our homes, fire can also be one of our worst enemies.  Each year, according to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), nearly 358,300 home-owners experience a fire.  Nearly, $10.3 billion in property damage and 3,280 deaths were due to residential fires in 2015 alone.  Residential fires accounted for three-quarters of all structure fires during 2015.  At SERVPRO of Laurel, we have seen first-hand the devastation that fire can cause.  We take pride in helping customers get their lives back on track in the wake of a disaster; but our wish is that they never go through that experience.  Knowledge is power when it comes to prevention and we want to share information that can help you protect your home.  Cooking is the leading cause of residential fires followed by home heating.  When cooking be sure to never leave anything on or near the stove and use caution when frying.  If you have central heating, make sure to have ducts cleaned regularly to prevent buildup and reduce the chance of fire. Dryer vents should also be cleaned annually.  Clothes dryers cause an estimated 2,900 fires each year, causing over $35 million in property losses. Call us today at (601)425-0119 to schedule your HVAC or dryer vent cleaning and protect your home.

Three areas SERVPRO can help during Fire Restoration.

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Laurel removed the fire damaged contents and inventoried the damaged property.

It's happened! Fire has affected your life and now you are wondering how to move on! How much can be done? What can be salvaged? Is there a way to restore my valuables or my damaged structure?

Fire, Smoke, and Soot restoration is an area that SERVPRO of Laurel definitely has both experience and great successes. There are usually three main areas of concern: Structural cleaning, contents cleaning, and deodorization.

STRUCTURAL CLEANING-After a fire or smoke damage the ceilings, walls, rugs, carpeting, and all the floors will often need to be thoroughly cleaned. SERVPRO will begin by testing to see the extent of the damage and then use specific equipment and products required to both clean and protect the surfaces in your home.

CONTENTS CLEANING-All of the contents in your home that can be restored will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. Rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery will be carefully inspected and tested to determine what cleaning process and products will be required and effective. SERVPRO provides both wet and dry cleaning services. Other items that may be restored are art, electronics, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac, and much much more.

DEODORIZATION- SERVPRO professionals provide specialized services to totally rid your home of the offensive odors that fire and smoke leave behind. The source of the odors is sought out and removed and not just the lingering fragrances. SERVPRO will be happy to explain the processes and methods available.

SERVPRO OF LAUREL 601-425-0119

Grease Fire 101

6/10/2019 (Permalink)

Grease fires happen quickly. You may be frying some bacon or chicken and all of a sudden your kitchen is on fire. Do you know how to put out a grease fire?

There are several things that can and should be done, as long as it is safe to do them:

1. Turn off the heat source.

2. Cover the flames with a metal lid. This works for small grease fires. Fire has to have oxygen to survive and placing a lid over the flames will cut off the oxygen supply causing the flames to extinguish themselves. 

3. Pour baking soda on the flames. This only works for small fires. But a word of caution, it will take a large amount to extinguish small flames. 

4. As a last resort, or if the flames are too large for the previously mentioned methods, use a Class B Dry Chemical fire extinguisher. Use of a fire extinguisher will result in much more clean up needed, but it's better than letting a grease fire destroy your entire home. 

5. Call 9-1-1. 

NEVER, use water to try and put out a grease fire. This will cause the grease to splatter and the fire to spread. Also, do not move the pot/skillet around, as this could cause the fire to spread as well. 

House Fire Season

1/4/2019 (Permalink)

We often hear about a particular time of the year as being the “season for house fires,” meaning house fire disasters are on the rise from that month forward.  It is usually associated with colder weather when we start to use more home heating.  When it comes to your home, however, there is no “season” for a fire.  It can strike at any time.  The sad fact is that 2,500 people will be killed in fires over the next year.  13,000 people will suffer serious injuries related to fires and the loss of property – in terms of real dollars – will be more than $7 Billion!

SERVPRO of Laurel provides expert restoration services if you have experienced a house fire.  If that is your situation now, please call (601) 425-0199 so we can begin restoring your home.  The residue left from a fire, known as soot, presents hidden dangers if not properly removed from your home and your possessions.  Soot is acidic in nature and within hours to days, it will begin to decay or even destroy whatever surface it comes in contact with.

Our homes are a collection of different types of materials, all of which represent unique risks once they have been exposed to the heat from a fire.  The structure itself is composed of wood and sheetrock.  Electrical wiring is wrapped with plastics and rubber.  Insulation is found in attics and behind walls.  Floors are made of wooden materials that have been coated with chemicals to preserve their beauty, or covered with synthetic materials found in carpets.  Each presents its own set of risks.  The water used to extinguish the fire also presents a different set of problems for furniture that comes in contact with it and personal belongings left on floors. 

SERVPRO of Laurel technicians are trained to determine what can be salvaged and what needs to be discarded.  Each home contains items of sentimental value like pictures and heirlooms.  Until help arrives, pictures need to be removed from glass frames as quickly as possible so they can dry unless they have become stuck to the glass.  Valuable items like jewelry, weapons, ammunition, financial papers and other personal items should be removed from the home for safe keeping. 

Our restoration specialists treat the damaged contents of your home with the utmost respect and care.  Once cleaned and restored, we will safely store your property until your home is ready for your return.  Our job is to make your loss “Like it never even happened.” 

Every 18 Seconds.

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Every 18 seconds a fire occurs somewhere in the U.S.! After experiencing such an event our hearts usually are overwhelmed with the long process of recovery. SERVPRO of Laurel can help alleviate much of the burden of cleaning up and restoring your business, home, and belongings. After a fire SERVPRO will begin to assess your needs. SERVPRO determines what your needs are and then assesses what is restorable and what methods will be used in restoration. The structure and contents will be cleaned by trained experts using either wet or dry cleaning. All restorable contents are cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, draperies, and upholstery. Additionally, all other restorable content such as electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric and brac, and much more will be cleaned and deodorized as well.

Why not set your mind at ease by being prepared for the possibility of a fire? Familiarize yourself with the professionals at SERVPRO of Laurel.

(601) 425-0119

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

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, SERVPROof Laurel 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 (601)-425-0119

Holiday Season Fire Prevention

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving and Christmas are rapidly approaching and for most, the kitchen is the heart of the home, especially during the holidays. From testing family recipes to decorating cakes and cookies, everyone enjoys being part of the preparations. So keeping fire safety top of mind in the kitchen during this joyous but hectic time is important, especially when there’s a lot of activity and people at home. As you start preparing your holiday schedule and organizing that large feast, remember, by following a few simple safety tips you can enjoy time with your loved ones and keep yourself and your family safer from fire.

Thanksgiving is a peak holiday for cooking fires, and the fire department responds to four times the amount of fires compared to every other day. One of the main contributors to this fire increase is leaving the kitchen while food is still cooking. Therefore, leaving the food unattended and able to cause more damage faster. The second leading factor is cooking equipment, so please be sure to make sure you are using the correct cooking utensils.

Safety tips

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

Thank you to NFPA for safety tips.

SERVPRO of Laurel wants to be sure you are aware on how to prevent these unfortunate situations, but if a fire were to happen we are there for you 24/7 even on holidays. Of course, always making it like it never even happened.

Do you have a Fire Extinguisher?

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

You could save your home from fire with a fire extinguisher at your ready.

Close your eyes and imagine. You’re at home, or maybe in the office, and you smell ... smoke? Definitely smoke. Fire! You don’t panic, because you’re not the type and you’re prepared. You grab the nearest fire estinguisher, find the flames. You get ready, aim.... and suddenly realize you don’t know how this thing works.

Fire extinguishers can be the first line of defense if fire breaks out in your home or business, but they won’t do you any good if you don’t know how to use them or have the wrong extinguisher for the job. When it comes to fire, plan, prepare and remain calm. Knowing how, when and why to use your fire extinguisher—not to mention which fire extinguisher to use—will increase both your safety and peace of mind knowing you can protect you and your belonging from fire damage.

When to Use a Fire Extinguisher
Home or office, when a fire breaks out you have moments to decide: fight or flight? If you feel even the slightest doubt about handling it yourself, move everyone to a safe place and call 911. Ditto if you don’t know how to use your extinguisher or aren’t sure it’s the right class for the fire you’re fighting; better to let the pros handle it than to try to navigate the learning curve mid-fire.

If you decide you can safely put out the fire, grab the extinguisher and get busy, after you locate a safe way out. If you spot a clear exit but it doesn’t look to stay clear long, get out now.

What Kind of Extinguisher to Use
Home- and business owners can choose from five types of fire extinguishers:

• Class A: for a fire involving normal combustibles and flammables, including cloth, paper and wood
• Class B: for a fire involving flammable liquids like gas, oil, paint, paint thinner and solvents
• Class C: to fight a fire involving electrical equipment/appliances that are plugged in and receiving power—electric drills, table saws, computer equipment, televisions, wiring and fuse boxes, for example
• Class D: to put out a fire involving combustible metals—magnesium, sodium, zirconium, etc. (Note: Don’t try to fight this kind of fire unless you’ve been specifically trained for it!)
• Class K: for fires typically found in restaurants, involving cooking oil and commercial-grade cooking equipment

Some fires involve several or all of the above. Fortunately, fire extinguishers are labeled not only with the types of fire they’re designed to fight, but with the types of fire you should avoid using them on. Example: Never use a Class A extinguisher on a Class B or C fire—the results could be deadly!

Fire Extinguisher How-to

1. Stand six to eight feet away from the flames.
2. Make sure you have a clear exit, in case the fire spreads or flames out of control.
3. Pull the pin to unlock the operating lever.
4. Aim the hose at the base of the fire.
5. Press the lever located above the handle to release the agent.
6. Use a back-and-forth sweeping motion to saturate the base of the fire until the flames are extinguished.
7. Continue the process if the fire re-ignites.
8. If the fire doesn’t go out or spreads, get to safety.

Extinguisher Safety Tips

• Install fire extinguishers in areas where fires are likely to break out, including kitchens and break rooms.
• Check periodically to make sure all fire extinguishers are fully charged.
• Show every family member or employee where the fire extinguishers and fire alarms are located.
• Train yourself, your loved ones and your co-workers to use the equipment properly.

Even with a fire extinguisher, some fire damage will occur. When this happens, call your local SERVPRO at 601-425-0119. 

The costly affects of a fire.

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Fire is one of our most valuable resources.  We use it to cook our food, heat our homes, power our world and so much more.  However, when it comes to our homes, fire can also be one of our worst enemies.  Each year, according to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), nearly 358,300 home-owners experience a fire.  Nearly, $10.3 billion in property damage and 3,280 deaths were due to residential fires in 2015 alone.  Residential fires accounted for three-quarters of all structure fires during 2015.  At SERVPRO of Laurel, we have seen first-hand the devastation that fire can cause.  We take pride in helping customers get their lives back on track in the wake of a disaster; but our wish is that they never go through that experience.  Knowledge is power when it comes to prevention and we want to share information that can help you protect your home.  Cooking is the leading cause of residential fires followed by home heating.  When cooking be sure to never leave anything on or near the stove and use caution when frying.  If you have central heating, make sure to have ducts cleaned regularly to prevent buildup and reduce the chance of fire. Dryer vents should also be cleaned annually.  Clothes dryers cause an estimated 2,900 fires each year, causing over $35 million in property losses. Call us today to schedule your HVAC or dryer vent cleaning and protect your home.

FIRE RESTORATION, three areas SERVPRO can help.

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

It's happened! Fire has affected your life and now you are wondering how to move on! How much can be done? What can be salvaged? Is there a way to restore my valuables or my damaged structure?

Fire, Smoke, and Soot restoration is an area that SERVPRO of Laurel definitely has both experience and great successes. There are usually three main areas of concern: Structural cleaning, contents cleaning, and deodorization.

STRUCTURAL CLEANING-After a fire or smoke damage the ceilings, walls, rugs, carpeting, and all the floors will often need to be thoroughly cleaned. SERVPRO will begin by testing to see the extent of the damage and then use specific equipment and products required to both clean and protect the surfaces in your home.

CONTENTS CLEANING-All of the contents in your home that can be restored will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. Rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery will be carefully inspected and tested to determine what cleaning process and products will be required and effective. SERVPRO provides both wet and dry cleaning services. Other items that may be restored are art, electronics, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac, and much much more.

DEODORIZATION- SERVPRO professionals provide specialized services to totally rid your home of the offensive odors that fire and smoke leave behind. The source of the odors is sought out and removed and not just the lingering fragrances. SERVPRO will be happy to explain the processes and methods available.

SERVPRO OF LAUREL 601-425-0119

House Fire Season?

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

We often hear about a particular time of the year as being the “season for house fires,” meaning house fire disasters are on the rise from that month forward.  It is usually associated with colder weather when we start to use more home heating.  When it comes to your home, however, there is no “season” for a fire.  It can strike at any time.  The sad fact is that 2,500 people will be killed in fires over the next year.  13,000 people will suffer serious injuries related to fires and the loss of property – in terms of real dollars – will be more than $7 Billion!

SERVPRO of Laurel provides expert restoration services if you have experienced a house fire.  If that is your situation now, please call (601) 425-0199 so we can begin restoring your home.  The residue left from a fire, known as soot, presents hidden dangers if not properly removed from your home and your possessions.  Soot is acidic in nature and within hours to days, it will begin to decay or even destroy whatever surface it comes in contact with.

Our homes are a collection of different types of materials, all of which represent unique risks once they have been exposed to the heat from a fire.  The structure itself is composed of wood and sheetrock.  Electrical wiring is wrapped with plastics and rubber.  Insulation is found in attics and behind walls.  Floors are made of wooden materials that have been coated with chemicals to preserve their beauty, or covered with synthetic materials found in carpets.  Each presents its own set of risks.  The water used to extinguish the fire also presents a different set of problems for furniture that comes in contact with it and personal belongings left on floors. 

SERVPRO of Laurel technicians are trained to determine what can be salvaged and what needs to be discarded.  Each home contains items of sentimental value like pictures and heirlooms.  Until help arrives, pictures need to be removed from glass frames as quickly as possible so they can dry unless they have become stuck to the glass.  Valuable items like jewelry, weapons, ammunition, financial papers and other personal items should be removed from the home for safe keeping. 

Our restoration specialists treat the damaged contents of your home with the utmost respect and care.  Once cleaned and restored, we will safely store your property until your home is ready for your return.  Our job is to make your loss “Like it never even happened.” 

Fire Extinguishers

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

You could save your home from fire with a fire extinguisher at your ready.

Close your eyes and imagine. You’re at home, or maybe in the office, and you smell ... smoke? Definitely smoke. Fire! You don’t panic, because you’re not the type and you’re prepared. You grab the nearest fire estinguisher, find the flames. You get ready, aim.... and suddenly realize you don’t know how this thing works.

Fire extinguishers can be the first line of defense if fire breaks out in your home or business, but they won’t do you any good if you don’t know how to use them or have the wrong extinguisher for the job. When it comes to fire, plan, prepare and remain calm. Knowing how, when and why to use your fire extinguisher—not to mention which fire extinguisher to use—will increase both your safety and peace of mind knowing you can protect you and your belonging from fire damage.

When to Use a Fire Extinguisher
Home or office, when a fire breaks out you have moments to decide: fight or flight? If you feel even the slightest doubt about handling it yourself, move everyone to a safe place and call 911. Ditto if you don’t know how to use your extinguisher or aren’t sure it’s the right class for the fire you’re fighting; better to let the pros handle it than to try to navigate the learning curve mid-fire.

If you decide you can safely put out the fire, grab the extinguisher and get busy, after you locate a safe way out. If you spot a clear exit but it doesn’t look to stay clear long, get out now.

What Kind of Extinguisher to Use
Home- and business owners can choose from five types of fire extinguishers:

• Class A: for a fire involving normal combustibles and flammables, including cloth, paper and wood
• Class B: for a fire involving flammable liquids like gas, oil, paint, paint thinner and solvents
• Class C: to fight a fire involving electrical equipment/appliances that are plugged in and receiving power—electric drills, table saws, computer equipment, televisions, wiring and fuse boxes, for example
• Class D: to put out a fire involving combustible metals—magnesium, sodium, zirconium, etc. (Note: Don’t try to fight this kind of fire unless you’ve been specifically trained for it!)
• Class K: for fires typically found in restaurants, involving cooking oil and commercial-grade cooking equipment

Some fires involve several or all of the above. Fortunately, fire extinguishers are labeled not only with the types of fire they’re designed to fight, but with the types of fire you should avoid using them on. Example: Never use a Class A extinguisher on a Class B or C fire—the results could be deadly!

Fire Extinguisher How-to

1. Stand six to eight feet away from the flames.
2. Make sure you have a clear exit, in case the fire spreads or flames out of control.
3. Pull the pin to unlock the operating lever.
4. Aim the hose at the base of the fire.
5. Press the lever located above the handle to release the agent.
6. Use a back-and-forth sweeping motion to saturate the base of the fire until the flames are extinguished.
7. Continue the process if the fire re-ignites.
8. If the fire doesn’t go out or spreads, get to safety.

Extinguisher Safety Tips

• Install fire extinguishers in areas where fires are likely to break out, including kitchens and break rooms.
• Check periodically to make sure all fire extinguishers are fully charged.
• Show every family member or employee where the fire extinguishers and fire alarms are located.
• Train yourself, your loved ones and your co-workers to use the equipment properly.

Even with a fire extinguisher, some fire damage will occur. When this happens, call your local SERVPRO at 601-425-0119. 

Holiday Season Fire Prevention

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving and Christmas are rapidly approaching and for most, the kitchen is the heart of the home, especially during the holidays. From testing family recipes to decorating cakes and cookies, everyone enjoys being part of the preparations. So keeping fire safety top of mind in the kitchen during this joyous but hectic time is important, especially when there’s a lot of activity and people at home. As you start preparing your holiday schedule and organizing that large feast, remember, by following a few simple safety tips you can enjoy time with your loved ones and keep yourself and your family safer from fire.

Thanksgiving is a peak holiday for cooking fires, and the fire department responds to four times the amount of fires compared to every other day. One of the main contributors to this fire increase is leaving the kitchen while food is still cooking. Therefore, leaving the food unattended and able to cause more damage faster. The second leading factor is cooking equipment, so please be sure to make sure you are using the correct cooking utensils.

Safety tips

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

Thank you to NFPA for safety tips.

SERVPRO of Laurel wants to be sure you are aware on how to prevent these unfortunate situations, but if a fire were to happen we are there for you 24/7 even on holidays. Of course, always making it like it never even happened.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

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, SERVPROof Laurel 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 (601)-425-0119

Every 18 Seconds

7/17/2017 (Permalink)

7/7/2017

Every 18 seconds a fire occurs somewhere in the U.S.! After experiencing such an event our hearts usually are overwhelmed with the long process of recovery. SERVPRO of Laurel can help alleviate much of the burden of cleaning up and restoring your business, home, and belongings. After a fire SERVPRO will begin to assess your needs. SERVPRO determines what your needs are and then assesses what is restorable and what methods will be used in restoration. The structure and contents will be cleaned by trained experts using either wet or dry cleaning. All restorable contents are cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, draperies, and upholstery. Additionally, all other restorable content such as electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric and brac, and much more will be cleaned and deodorized as well.

Why not set your mind at ease by being prepared for the possibility of a fire? Familiarize yourself with the professionals at SERVPRO of Laurel.

(601) 425-0119