Recent Fire Damage Posts

Urban Living and Fire Safety: Protecting Your Home During Summer | SERVPRO Team Miller

8/2/2024 (Permalink)

dramatic shot of firemen holding hose spraying water on to burning hot flames SERVPRO Team Miller is ready to help you have a fire-safe summer season with these helpful tips!

Living in a city brings its own set of joys and challenges, especially when it comes to fire safety during the summer months. As you navigate urban life, it’s essential to prioritize fire safety to safeguard your home and community.

Here are some key tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable summer while living in a city.

1. Apartment Fire Safety: Prevention and Preparedness

In densely populated urban areas, apartment buildings are common living spaces. Fire safety in apartments begins with prevention. Ensure smoke detectors are installed in every room and hallway, and test them monthly to ensure they are functioning correctly. Know the location of fire exits and familiarize yourself with the building’s evacuation plan. Keep hallways and stairwells clear of obstructions that could impede evacuation in an emergency.

When cooking, especially on hot summer days, avoid leaving the stove or oven unattended. Keep flammable items such as towels and curtains away from cooking appliances. If you use a grill on a balcony or rooftop, make sure it’s permitted by building regulations and keep it well away from any flammable materials.

2. City Parks and Public Spaces: Responsible Outdoor Activities

City parks and public spaces are hubs of summer activity, from picnics to outdoor events. When enjoying these areas, be mindful of fire safety guidelines. Use designated grilling areas provided by parks and avoid setting up open fires outside of designated fire pits or areas. Dispose of hot coals and ashes properly by allowing them to cool completely before placing them in designated containers.

During fireworks displays or events involving open flames, follow local regulations and guidelines strictly. Keep a safe distance from firework launch sites and never attempt to relight malfunctioning fireworks. After the event, ensure all debris is properly disposed of to prevent fire hazards.

3. Electrical Safety in Urban Homes

City dwellings often rely heavily on electrical appliances and devices. To prevent electrical fires, inspect cords, plugs, and outlets regularly for signs of wear or damage. Avoid overloading outlets with multiple devices, especially during heat waves when electrical systems may be strained. Use surge protectors where necessary and never run cords under carpets or rugs where they can overheat and ignite.

If you notice flickering lights, tripped circuit breakers, or a burning smell from electrical outlets, contact a licensed electrician immediately to investigate and resolve the issue.

Stay Safe with SERVPRO®

As you enjoy the vibrancy of summer in the city, remember that fire safety is paramount for protecting yourself, your neighbors, and your community. By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can minimize the risk of fire hazards and ensure a safe and enjoyable summer season in urban settings.

Contact SERVPRO Team Miller today to learn more about fire safety tips and how we can assist in fire damage restoration if needed. Let’s work together to keep our city safe and thriving this summer.

Celebrate the 4th of July with Safety in Mind

6/7/2024 (Permalink)

Colorful fireworks against a dark sky. Celebrating the 4th of July can be a blast – literally.

Celebrating the 4th of July can be a blast – literally. When getting ready to celebrate the long weekend, it’s important to take note of the proper safety precautions to avoid series injury or potential fire hazards when grilling or setting off fireworks to celebrate Independence Day. 

Tips for Grilling Safely 

  • Keep your grill at least 10 ft. away from the walls of your home, garage, etc.  
  • Never leave a lit grill unattended.  
  • Never add starter fluid to ignited coals. 
  • Use long-handed grilling equipment to avoid getting burned. 

Safely Setting Off Fireworks 

  • Stay at lease 500 ft. away from a public, live firework show. 
  • Keep a fire extinguisher or a supply of water nearby in case any fireworks do cause a fire. 
  • Never hold any part of your body directly over a firework as you light them to avoid burning your hands, face, chest, etc. 
  • Keep fireworks out of the reach of children. Always keep children within your sight if they are playing with sparklers. 
  • If a firework does not go off, do not attempt to light it again. 

If an unavoidable fire disaster does occur to your property, know that SERVPRO® is available 24/7/365 to help you with every step of the fire restoration process. 

Bonfire Season Is Coming

6/7/2024 (Permalink)

Bonfire in the dark. Follow these tips to have fun and safe summer nights!

Surrounding a campfire with loved ones creates special memories that you can cherish forever. Putting forth safety measures when having a bonfire can lessen the chances of having fire related injuries and property damage. Follow these tips to have fun and safe summer nights! 

Starting the Fire 

  • Make sure your fire pit is enclosed and there is enough room for a seating area. 
  • Make sure that your bonfire is 10 feet away from your home or any structures. 
  • Do not use gasoline or lighter fluid to start or light the bonfire. 

Bonfire Safety 

  • Keep a bucket of water or hose handy in case of emergencies. 
  • Do not leave the bonfire unattended. 
  • Keep children and pets away from the bonfire. 
  • Do not throw fireworks into the bonfire. 
  • Do not burn aerosols or anything that may produce toxic fumes or explode. 

Putting Out the Fire 

  • Slowly pour water over the ashes and check to be sure that the fire is completely out. 
  • Use a shovel to spread out the ashes to let them cool down. 

Urban Fire Pit Safety: Enjoying Outdoor Fires Responsibly

6/3/2024 (Permalink)

campfire style bonfire with dark night background Gather around the bonfire, but don't forget about fire safety! Follow these tips from SERVPRO®.

Living in a city doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the cozy ambiance of a crackling fire. With the popularity of urban fire pits on the rise, it’s essential to prioritize safety to prevent accidents and ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Here are some key tips for safely enjoying a fire pit in an urban setting.

Choose the Right Fire Pit

When selecting a fire pit for your urban outdoor space, opt for one that is specifically designed for safe use in confined areas. Look for fire pits that are portable and have sturdy legs to provide stability on various surfaces, such as concrete patios or balconies.

Avoid makeshift fire containers or DIY solutions that may not meet safety standards and could pose a risk of fire or injury. Additionally, consider the size of the fire pit in relation to your outdoor space and ensure that there’s enough ventilation to prevent smoke buildup.

Location, Location, Location

The location of your fire pit is crucial for safety and enjoyment. Place the fire pit on a stable, non-flammable surface, such as concrete, stone, or brick. Keep it at least 10 feet away from any buildings, fences, or overhanging structures to reduce the risk of fire spreading.

If you’re using a fire pit on a balcony or rooftop, check with your building management to ensure compliance with any regulations or restrictions. Avoid setting up a fire pit in areas with low-hanging tree branches or near dry vegetation, as these can easily catch fire.

Practice Safe Burning Practices

Once your fire pit is set up, it’s essential to follow safe burning practices to prevent accidents and minimize environmental impact. Use only dry, seasoned firewood or pre-packaged fire logs to fuel your fire, as green or wet wood can produce excessive smoke and sparks.

Avoid using accelerants like gasoline or lighter fluid, as they can cause uncontrollable flames and pose a significant safety hazard. Keep a bucket of water, a fire extinguisher, or a hose nearby in case of emergencies, and never leave the fire unattended.

By following these fire pit safety tips, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of an outdoor fire pit without compromising safety. However, accidents can still happen, and if your property experiences fire-related damage, we are here to help.

Preparing to Stay Warm in a Fire-Safe Way

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

brick chimney with lit fire logs Fire safety is a top priority for us at this winter. Keep your home safe with these helpful tips!

This winter season has been a unique one so far! With warmer-than-average temperatures and less snow than normal, it’s ramping up to be a winter to remember. However, just because the winter started that way, it doesn’t mean it will stay that way.

When the temperature plummets, we all head inside to start cranking on our furnaces, stoke our fireplaces and pull out our space heaters. Unfortunately, this also means that the number of house fires in our community will start to rise. Staying fire-free is always your ultimate goal, so read on to learn some helpful fire safety tips while you focus on staying warm this winter.

Keeping a Clean Fireplace

Fireplaces are one of the coziest parts of any winter season, but they can be serious fire hazards if you are not careful. Take the time to clear away any ash buildup from previous fires before lighting a new one, and routinely scrub down your chimney walls to remove creosote.

Limit the flammable items near your fireplace, and keep your mantle decorations to a minimum. Electric or gas fireplaces can also be convenient ways to stay warm, but prioritize checking your gas lines often for any signs of dangerous leaks. It is also a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher close by and make sure your smoke alarm batteries are always fresh.

Setting Up Space Heaters Safely

The portability of space heaters is one of the best things about them! However, this ease of use is also what makes them potentially so dangerous.

Space heaters can be tipped over relatively easily, so find a location to set yours up that has a level ground on a nonflammable surface. Once set up, make sure the cord is lying flat or secured somehow to reduce the risk of a tripping hazard.

Enforce a three-foot barrier around your heater so kids and pets can’t get hurt or knock it over, and keep it far away from flammable materials like cushions or curtains. Never leave your space heater unattended, and always unplug it before going to bed every night.

Safety Measures for Heaters

It is important to do your research with anything that you buy, but especially for something that could potentially be a hazard in your home. Check reviews, ask friends and family and remember that just because something is cheap or on sale, it doesn’t always mean that it is a good purchase.

Check to make sure the company that sells the heater is reputable and has passed the necessary safety certifications. You should also check to see if it has any additional safety features, like an emergency shut-off switch. Some heaters have them, and they can be programmed to shut off after a certain period of use. This feature can be great if you are busy and have trouble remembering to turn yours off every night.

Finally, you should make sure that the heater is well-made. The cord should be sturdy and not coming loose from the back of the heater, and it shouldn’t be dented or compromised in any way.

We hope you have a fun and safe winter season in the Detroit area! Our fire damage restoration team is here for you no matter what happens, so call us 24⁄7 if you suffer a house fire. We will clean, sanitize and restore your home with confidence.

A quick fire damage restoration is just a phone call away. Call SERVPRO® for immediate assistance.

Tips For Holiday Meal Prepping Safely

12/15/2023 (Permalink)

pan on kitchen counter in residence ablaze while unattended Fire damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO on the case!

If you are like us, you are dreaming of all of the delicious holiday food that is going to be donning your family table and your plate this upcoming season. Whatever holidays you celebrate and however you celebrate them, chances are that you will be whipping up your favorite meals and treats in the kitchen to get ready.

Unfortunately, house fires are more common in the fall and winter months, especially those that originate in the kitchen. Knowing what causes kitchen fires and how to reduce your risk can help you stay focused on your mashed potato recipe or pumpkin pie without the risk of starting a fire.

Controlling Your Space

The first thing you should always do before starting the oven or stove is to prepare your space. Excess clutter on the counters and floors can be fire hazards, but they can also become fuel for a fire if one does start.

You should also remove as many flammable materials and objects as possible. Put away pot holders, kitchen towels, oven mitts and wooden utensils when they are not in use.

In addition, you also need to be mindful about how you dress while you are making your food. Loose sleeves, long apron strings or holiday outfits with all the bells and whistles can easily catch fire if you get too close to your heat source. Roll up your sleeves and choose your clothing carefully.

Keep a Watchful Eye on Your Food

There should always be someone in charge of the kitchen that stays nearby the oven or stove while it is on. Even just stepping away for a moment can be enough time for a flame to flare up or for a grease bubble to pop. By the time you come back, your entire kitchen could be in flames.

If your family loves to deep-fry turkeys every year, extra precautions should be taken into consideration. Do not overfill the fryer with oil and choose a safe location that is flat and far away from any overhangs or garages.

You should also be sure to pull out your turkey to completely thaw before it goes into the oil. A partially frozen turkey can react negatively with the oil and cause it to spatter and pop.

Check Those Alarms

Even if you are the most responsible chef, accidents can happen or the unexpected can occur in the blink of an eye. That’s why having protective measures like smoke alarms is important! Check the batteries in each of your alarms every month and replace them as needed to ensure they are ready to work.

You also should have a fire extinguisher in or near your kitchen at all times. Having a reliable way to extinguish flames can help you put a stop to any developing situation in seconds.

We hope you have a holly jolly season with your loved ones but remember that we are always here if you need us. Our team can handle any fire damage that you experience, and we will put your home back together right away!

House fires can happen in the blink of an eye. Contact us for a quick restoration day or night!