Christmas Tree Safety

12/18/2024 (Permalink)

Handle your fresh tree with care

We are just a week away from Christmas – a magical time for your kids and family. Decorations have filled your home, and your freshly cut tree is glowing with wrapped presents all around but don’t forget your tree needs attention. If you decide to have a live tree, make sure you are taking into consideration the attention in keeping your home safe.

• When decorating always use miniature lights that produce low heat – it will reduce drying of the tree.
• Do not overload electrical circuits and inspect your light sets before placing them on your tree.
• If you are leaving your home or going to bed – turn off your lights.
• Check the water level in your tree especially if you have indoor pets – they will empty your water supply before you know it.
• Place your tree away from your heating vents to prevent drying out.

Following these simple steps to avoid a fire hazard – fresh farm-grown trees are safe if you follow the proper measures.

Decorating Safety Tip

12/1/2024 (Permalink)

Its time to Deck the Halls!

Now that the Thanksgiving Feast is over, its time to pull out the Christmas decorations and get your home decorated for the Christmas Holiday! There is a greater risk of a fire to your home during the holidays so before you begin to Deck the Halls of your home – keep safety as your top priority!

• Check your lights for any worn or broken cords or bulb connections and only use indoor and outdoor lights in the appropriate area.
• When purchasing decorations make sure they are flame resistant and or retardant
• Do not over connect your string of lights.
• When using extension cords make sure they are not placed in a high traffic area
• Never leave your candles unattended or near curtains or furniture and out of reach of small children.
• Always turn off your holiday lights prior to going to bed or leaving your home.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – Happy Decorating!

Planning on Frying your Turkey?

11/20/2024 (Permalink)

Fried Turkey for Thanksgiving!

We are one week away from kicking off the Holiday Season - Thanksgiving!  Preparations will begin for days of cooking for family and friends. But did you know that cooking is the leading cause of house fires? Unattended cooking is a contributing factor especially frying.  If you plan on deep frying your turkey this holiday season, follow these safety guidelines to assure your Thanksgiving Dinner doesn’t require a 911 call for the fire department. 

• Make sure your turkey is thawed – never place a frozen turkey in a fryer
• Keep a fire extinguisher close by to extinguish a fire – DO NOT USE WATER
• Never leave your fryer unattended.
• Place your fryer outside and away from your home.
• Instruct your children to stay away from your fryer and keep your pets inside or contained in an area away from your fryer.

Celebrate the season safely with your family and friends!

Space Heater Safety

10/22/2024 (Permalink)

Use safety when using a space heater to warm areas of your home.

October is Fire Prevention Month and a time for homes to prepare for the cooler the temperatures that are coming. Temperatures during this time of year can vary from day to day and we tend to experience all seasons in one day here in the South. To avoid turning your heating and cooling unit from cool to heat – some prefer to use a space heater in the cooler mornings and evenings. Using an additional heat source is common but make sure you have the proper safety measures in place.

• Plug Space heaters directly into an electrical outlet (DO NOT use a power strip or electrical cord to power the heater.
• Place your heater away from a high traffic area.
• Never leave your heater unattended
• Place heaters three or more feet away from curtains, bedding and furniture.
• Unplug your heater when not in use to avoid it being turned on accidentally.

Inspect your heater prior to use. Exposed heating coils or elements can spark a fire quickly. Portable space heaters are responsible for over 1,700 fires a year so following these few tips can save you and your family from a potential fire.

Holiday Weekend Fun

8/29/2024 (Permalink)

Celebrating the holiday weekend grilling safely.

The official end of Summer is upon us - but that depends on how you look at it.  The high temperatures doesn’t seem to put us in the state of mind that summer is ending, but the holiday weekend approaching has everyone geared up for the last blast of sweet summertime.  

As you start planning for bomb fires, cookouts and fireworks – keep in mind safety.  We had weeks of rain but lately the drought seems to be back – the dry conditions combined with the dry conditions is the perfect scenario for a fire.

You may have used your grill throughout the season but always check to make sure your tanks have no leaks, and your grill is clean of any debris. If you are camping this holiday weekend, make sure there is a no fire burn in place before setting your campfire up for smores.  If you are planning on fireworks, keep a water hose or a water source nearby.

Following these safety tips can assure you and your family are set to enjoy a fun-filled holiday weekend and a last woo-rah to summer.

Fireworks and Safety    

7/3/2024 (Permalink)

Fireworks over a city.

The 4^th of July holiday is finally here - the time to spend with family and friends! Food and Fireworks are always a part of this special Holiday but let us all remember “Safety First” when it comes to fireworks.  Each year an average of 19,500 fires are started due to fireworks. That includes homes and forestry.  Drout conditions in our local area will also be a factor in this year’s event so take extra caution.

• Keep a water hose or bucket of water nearby.
• Never re-light or handle fireworks that are not functioning properly.
• Keep children a safe distance from your fireworks displays and never let them handle them.
• Keep your pets inside.
• Never shoot fireworks near your home – use an open area around your home.

If you do not feel comfortable handing fireworks – then leave it to the professionals as there will be several events in your area that you can enjoy and save yourself some money too!

Have a safe and Happy 4^th of July! 

Happy Birthday America!

Grill Safety

5/22/2024 (Permalink)

Preparing your grill for cooking.

The summer kick off begins this weekend as family and friends gather together to fire up the grill and celebrate the Memorial Holiday Weekend. Grilling goes with Holidays in the summer, but it is important to follow safety guidelines to prevent any accidents.

Follow these essential grilling safety tips to ensure your holiday is a safe and fun time for you and your family.

• Place your grill in a well-ventilated area on a solid surface at least 10 feet away from buildings, deck railings and overhanging tree branches.
• Check your grill for any nests or debris and inspect your propane tanks for leaks.
• Avoid loose clothing and long sleeve shirts.
• Always open the lid to your grill before lighting to avoid gas buildup.
• Never leave your grill unattended while in use and keep your children and pets a safe distance from your cooking area.

Wishing you a happy and safe Memorial Day Holiday!

Fire Soot and Safety

4/25/2024 (Permalink)

Soot covering the walls in a home after a kitchen fire in Newberry, SC

No matter the size of a house fire, the soot residue can be visible to every inch of your home. Depending on the depth of the fire, no matter what you do to clean this on your own can be overwhelming. It is best to leave this to the professionals of SERVPRO. Soot, ash and char particles along with invisible chemical compounds can linger in your home from weeks to years!

Soot residue untreated or cleaned improperly can be inhaled in the lungs. Toxic particles can cause bronchitis, breathing issues and respiratory issues if not treated correctly. You can become nose blind to the smell but trust the professionals it is still there, and it is dangerous.

If you experience a house fire (even a small one) call the experts of SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties. We are trained in the soot removal and bringing your personal  items back to pre-fire conditions.

Space Heaters - are you safe from a fire?

12/22/2023 (Permalink)

Space heaters can assist in heating colder areas of your home.

As the temperature is beginning to fall below freezing, you may want to resort to an additional heating source for some areas of your home that may be hard to keep warm.  Space heaters are often the source of that additional heat so make sure you are following all safety precautions when using a space heater in your home.

• Place the heater at least 3 feet away from furniture, bedding and curtains.
• Never leave the space heater unattended especially around small children and pets
• Keep heaters out of high traffic areas of your home.
• Plug heaters directly into electrical outlets (DO NOT use an extension cord)
• Heaters should be placed on a level – flat surface (never place on carpet)
• Unplug your space heater when not in use.

SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties will be here no matter what you may experience. Be safe and enjoy this special time with family and friends.

Merry Christmas!

Is Your Christmas Tree Fire Safe?

12/11/2023 (Permalink)

Keep your tree fire safe this Christmas Season.

Getting in the Christmas Cheer is all around us as many homes have already started decorating for the Christmas holiday. If you are choosing a live tree for your home, a fresh will stay greener longer – check the needles to make sure they do not fall off if touched and the trunk of the tree should be sticky. Before standing your tree – cut about two inches off the bottom of the trunk so your tree can better absorb water. Check your water levels daily, especially if you have animals in the house. Just remember the scene from Christmas Vacation, you do not want that to happen! If your tree is in a warmer room in your home your tree will dry out quicker and could cause a fire hazard – so turn your thermostat down a few degrees to preserve your tree longer. Never place your tree near fireplaces or other heat sources. These safety tips are the same for an artificial tree – never purchase and artificial tree that is not fire resistant. Practice safety this holiday season.

Christmas Times a Coming

12/5/2023 (Permalink)

Use safety when decorating your Christmas Tree

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, Christmas – family- festivities and fun will fill this month. It’s a special time of the year; our homes are decorated to celebrate the holiday season with lights and candles.  During the holidays there is a greater risk of a fire in your home. Make sure safety is a part of your holiday plans.

• Check all light cords to ensure that they aren’t frayed or broken. Connect only three strands per extension cord.
• When installing outdoor lights make sure they are for outdoor use.
• Trees – if you are using a live tree make sure it’s fresh and keep it watered throughout the season, if you are using an artificial tree make sure the label reads fire- resistant. Always keep your tree away from fireplaces, radiators and all other heat sources.
• Test your smoke detectors on each level of your home.

Enjoy this holiday season and know SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties will be here for you!

Cooking Safety

11/20/2023 (Permalink)

Cooking the perfect Turkey safely!

As we embark on the Holiday Season when most are in the kitchen cooking for their families for the Thanksgiving Holiday – be sure to remember these top cooking safety tips to avoid a house fire and a trip to your local restaurant for your holiday meal.

• Never leave the kitchen when you are cooking on the stove top.
• Do not leave your Turkey unattended – even if your stove is on low.
• Keep the kids out of the cooking zone.
• If you are deep frying your Turkey – do that outside away from your home.
• Do not wear loose clothing – finish your cooking and change into your festive outfit prior to dinner.
• Test your smoke alarms to assure they are in the proper working condition.
• Turn your pot handles towards the back to avoid a turnover.

Following these tips can and will prevent a house fire. Enjoy your holiday with family and friends and rest assure SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties will be here if you need us! 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Time to Talk Turkey

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

Too much grease in your fryer will cause a fire.

Thanksgiving is a little over a week away – preparations for the perfect Thanksgiving feast will soon be underway.  If you have plans to deep fry your Turkey this year, follow these tips and safety guidelines to assure your Thanksgiving feast goes off without a hitch.

• Use a Turkey fryer outside ONLY – away from your home and flammable items.
• Never fry you Turkey frozen. Follow the instructions on your Turkey for thawing time.
• Don’t overflow your grease – always allow for room for your bird.
• Use cooking gloves.
• Instruct your children to stay away from the fryer and keep your pets inside and away from your fryer.
• Keep a multipurpose – dry powered fire extinguisher on hand and NEVER use water to cool down a grease fire.
• Never leave your fryer unattended while cooking

Have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving Holiday.

Times to Inspect your Chimney

11/9/2023 (Permalink)

Time to clean your chimney for the winter ahead!

We have certainly felt all seasons here in the south over the past few weeks. We go from sunny and the high 70’s to falling below freezing. Winter is coming whether we like it or not, so before you get the home fires burning – schedule that appointment to get your chimney checked and inspected.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends that chimneys, fireplaces, and vents should be inspected at least once a year. Having your chimney inspected reduces your chance of a chimney fire – as the sweep removes debris that has deposited along the chimney walls and removes any animal nests that may have accumulated over the spring and summer months. Check the firebox for any cracks or loose joints. Hiring a professional can give you peace of mind and assurance that your home is safe from a potential house fire.

Fire Prevention

10/12/2023 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire Simulator

October is Fire Prevention month – one week of this month is highlighted to focus on a national campaign of Fire Prevention Week.  This year’s theme is “Cooking safety starts with YOU!  Pay attention to fire prevention. “Fire prevention week is observed each year in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, which took place in October of 1871 – which caused devastating damage killing more than 250 people and left over 100K homeless. This fire burned over 2,000 acres of land- destroying over 17,000 structures.

Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires. Leaving your stove/oven while cooking is the main factor in fires especially if you are cooking with grease.

• Never leave your stove unattended while cooking
• Create a kid free zone
• Turn pot handles towards the back of your stove
• Keep a fire extinguisher close by and learn how to use one

If you need to leave your kitchen while cooking, turn off the burners. Check your smoke alarms throughout your home to assure they are working properly. Educate your family on what to do in the event you experience a fire.

Time to check your grill!

5/17/2023 (Permalink)

Grilling steaks and hamburgers on a gas grill.

Warmer weather has finally arrived and it’s almost time to kick off the summer season with the Memorial Day holiday approaching. Families break out the grills that for the most part have been stored away or used very little over the winter months, so make sure you have checked over your grill inside and out including your propane tank and hoses.

Three out of five households own a gas grill – unfortunately, about 9,000 home fires occur each year as a result of gas grills. Simple precautions can save your home and dinner from a fire disaster.

Always grill outside and away from our house, deck and patio furniture. Keep your grill trays cleaned regularly and make sure your grill is located on a flat solid surface.  Keep children and your pets away from the grill at all times and never leave your grill unattended. Keep your home and family safe as we kick off the summertime season after a long cold winter!

Space Heater Safety

12/14/2022 (Permalink)

Space heater safety

With the colder temperatures moving into our area over the next few days, some people may be preparing to pull out the space heaters to help keep their homes warm. When the temperature drops well below freezing our main heat sources (heat pumps) cannot keep up -  leaving larger rooms and drafty areas in your home harder to keep warm.

Always keep safety your top priority – and follow these tips to keep you home safe during these cold temperatures!

• Plug your space heater directly into an electrical outlet – never use an extension cord or power strip
• If your heater is an older model, consider purchasing a newer one as they have the most current safety features
• Choose a heater that allows you to adjust the temperature and has an auto timer and shutoff feature
• Place your heaters on a hard surface – clear of any drapes or flammable furniture

Winter is here – following these safety precautions can and will prevent a house fire!

Decorating Safety

12/6/2022 (Permalink)

Time to Decorate your tree

Our houses are beginning to look a lot like Christmas – Decorations are going up and families are getting geared up to decorate for the Christmas Holiday Season. Safety is key – review the below points to keep you and your family safe and festive this holiday season.

• Before you string up a single strand of lights, carefully check them for cracked cords frayed ends or loose connections.
• The combination of shorts in electrical lights and a tinder-dry tree can be deadly. Keep your tree well-watered. Not only will it stay fresh and green, but it will also prevent a house fire
• Ditch old stands of lights – purchase lights with fused plugs
• Remember the 3 light connection strand
• Check your extension plugs – if its hot unplug and replace the cord
• Turn off your lights when you go to bed or leave your home

Following these tips will you and your family safe from a house fire

Safety Before Fireworks!

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Fireworks over the lake on an island!

As we gear up for the 4^th of July Holiday weekend with family and friends – Food and Fireworks lets also remember safety! Firework start an average of 19,500 fires each year and that includes house fires and forestry fires. The lack of rain we have experienced in our area over the past several weeks will put a higher risk of a fire if you’re not careful.

• Never set off fireworks inside or near your home – Use in an open area and point them away from your home, people, and pets. Better yet put your pets inside
• Have a water hose or a bucket of water near by
• Don’t light it Twice – Never attempt to re-shoot a firework that does not immediately fire – just toss the dud
• Never allow children to hold or play with fireworks

If you don’t feel comfortable handling fireworks, then don’t! Leave it to the professionals and find a safe enjoyable place in your local area for the event. Cheaper on the wallet too! Have a safe and Happy 4^th of July Holiday.

Safe Grilling this Holiday Weekend

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Grilling burgers on the grill

We made it – yes winter is long gone and now it’s time to kick off sweet summertime with family and friends this Holiday weekend. That means grilling and chilling but lets all put on our safety hats before the festivities begin!

Three out of five households own a gas grill – unfortunately, about 8,900 home fires occur each year as a result of gas grills. If you have a grill master in your home, they may think they have everything under control but its more often an equipment malfunction that causes a fire to happen, more so if you haven’t been firing up the grill int the winter months.   Check your grill for propane leaks – only use grills outside in a well-ventilated area – secure your grill on a flat solid surface. Remember your grill is not an oven so never leave it unattended. Keep your home safe this holiday season and welcome summer safely!

Fire Clean up in Prosperity, SC

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

Soot fire removal from a home in Prosperity, SC

House fires are difficult to manage no matter how much damage it may have caused, having the right company on the job site can make life easier for any homeowner. This home in Prosperity SC had minor fire damage but the soot it left behind was obvious and a job very familiar for our SERVPRO crew.  Attention to detail is what our technicians are trained to do and that is to clean and remove all areas of a home that has experienced a fire. Fire soot can attach to most anything inside a home – some unseen to the eye but our techs can see what the homeowner may miss. Depending on the nature of the fire will determine the course of action for a fire cleanup.

Fireworks can equal Fire - Practice Safety

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

Enjoying the Fireworks Display!

As we all gather to close out the last day of the 2021 with food, family, friends and fireworks – Lets all remember to practice safety first so you don’t start your New Year with a bang or worse – a fire. If you have planned fireworks for your New Year party have someone who is experienced.in bringing you a safe and festive display. Plan an area that is clear, level, and free of trees and structures. Never point or throw fireworks at another person and maintain a safe distance between you and the lighting area. Children should not be around the fireworks area; fireworks are dangerous and should only be handled by adults. Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby just in case.  Keep your pets inside in a safe place. Ring in the New Year with family and fun but always keep your safety guard up.

Christmas Time is Here

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

Decorating the Tree with Christmas Balls

Thanksgiving is the official kickoff to the Holiday Season – and now that we have all indulged in the Turkey feast and you maybe braved the Black Friday crowds and shopped till you dropped its now time to breakout the Christmas decorations and get your home looking like the North Pole. Before you go stringing the lights make sure to test each strand to assure there are no lose, frayed or disconnected wires. If you have lights that flicker on and off – replace them with a new strand. Inspect electrical drop cords and power strips for broken sockets or loose connections prior to using. If you have decided to go with a live tree, make sure they are set up away from any heat source and check your tree daily to assure they have ample water. The first few days they will use more water to properly hydrate and if you have animals inside the home – they may just think they have a new water bowl with a hint of Fraser fir or pine, so it might be a good idea to assure you stand is covered. Happy Decorating and Hello December – The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

Feast or Fire?

11/23/2021 (Permalink)

What was left of the kitchen after a fire in Newberry, SC

As we begin to kick-off the Holiday Season better known as “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” and one of the biggest cooking days of the year let us all remember safety first. Thanksgiving is the peak day for home fires from the result of cooking. We have listed a few safety tips while cooking your famous feast for your family and friends.

• Stay in the kitchen while you are cooking at high temperatures
• Never leave your home while your oven is on (even on low temperatures) while cooking the Turkey
• Keep your kids and pets out of the cooking area – set up a mini cooking area away from the kitchen and let the kids help by stirring your cake batter or decorating the cookies.
• Cook in short sleeve shirts
• Keep pot handles turned inward towards the back of the stove
• Check your smoke detectors to assure they are in working order

Most importantly when you are planning your Thanksgiving Day menu make sure you have your fire safety planned as well.  If you follow these few safety tips, chances are you will not need to call on our services this Holiday Season.  Happy Thanksgiving for our SERVPRO home to yours.

Turkey Talk

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

How NOT to fry a Turkey this Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving is only a week away and many are already getting geared up for the season of cooking.  Thanksgiving Day accounts for more home fires than any other day of the year. If you plan is to deep fry your Turkey, this year - Check out these tips below to assure your bird or your home doesn’t go up in flames.

• Use a Turkey fryer outside only – on a sturdy level surface – away from anything flammable and always remember always keep your children and pets away from your fryer
• Make sure your turkey is completely thawed prior to putting it into the hot grease – a partially frozen turkey will cause an overflow in your fryer and a massive fire
• Check your grease temperature often to avoid a grease fire
• Use cooking gloves – the lid and handles can get extremely hot and cause burn injuries
• Never leave the fryer unattended and never use water to put out a grease fire

Time to Check your Chimneys

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

Call a professional to inspect and clean your chimney!

If you haven’t flipped the switch over to heat over the past few weeks, then you most likely live near the coast or you’re holding out to make the switch as long as possible.  Whatever the reason winter in coming so before you get the home fires burning make a point to get your chimney checked and inspected. The National Fire Protection Association recommends that chimneys, fireplaces and vents should be inspected at least once a year.  Having your chimney inspected greatly reduces your chance of a chimney fires – as the sweep removes debris that has deposited along the chimney walls and removes any animal nests that may been accumulated over the spring and summer months.  Check the firebox for any cracks or loose joints. Hiring a professional can give you peace of mind and assurance that your home is safe from a potential house fire.

Soot Fire Damage

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

Soot damage before and after on glassware from a house fire.

No matter how big or small a house fire can be – Soot from the fire can cause more damage than the actual fire itself.  Soot is a black, powdery substance that is produced when a fire does not completely burn its fuel source. During a fire the soot often becomes ionized, which causes it to adhere to surfaces like your furniture – walls and various contents of your home. The type and temperature of a house fire and the materials burned will affect the cleanup steps needed to restore your property and your most prized possessions. If you experience a house fire – remember not all is lost.  SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties is there to help clean and recover every item we can! Place your trust in us – we got you cleaned and covered! “Like it never even happened.”

October is Fire Prevention Month!

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety

Each Year October has been identified as Fire Prevention Month.  The fire prevention week kicked off on Sunday- October 3rd and will run through Saturday October 9^th. “Lean the Sounds of Fire” is the theme for 2021.  Smoke alarms have been a major factor in reducing fire death rates over the last 40 years, but there is always more work to be done in making sure they remain effective.

Smoke alarms in your home can reduce the risk of dying by more than 55%. Statics show three (3) out of five (5) home fire deaths happen in home without a working smoke alarm.  Dead batteries, disconnected wiring because it woke you up at 3:00 am chirping or power to the smoke alarms are the most common factors of failing smoke alarms. Smoke alarms must be replaced every 10 years.

We are entering the heat season with fireplaces burning and furnaces running – Check your fire alarms – replace your batteries and make sure YOUR family is ready, prepared and safe.

Is your Grill safe?

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Get your grills ready!

The kickoff to Summer has begun – as we all celebrated the Memorial Holiday weekend with family – food and friends – let remember Grill Safety.

Three out of five households own a gas grill – unfortunately, about 8,900 home fires occur each year as a result of gas grills. If you have a grill master in your home, they may think they have everything under control but its more often an equipment malfunction that causes a fire to happen, more so if you have not done much grilling over the winter months.  Propane gas, fire dry air and dry grass can cook up a disaster you were not planning on serving up for dinner.

Simple precautions can save your home from a fire disaster.  Always grill outside and keep the grill away from your house, deck and patio furniture.  Check your propane tank hose for leaks. Keep your grill trays cleaned regularly. Always keep your pets and children away from the grill. Remember grills are not an oven, you cannot leave them unattended. Stay safe and welcome sweet summertime!

Learn before you Burn

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Practice safety when buring yard debris

It’s officially Spring and most of us are out cleaning up the remnants of winter. Trimming bushes, cutting brush and gathering up branches and debris from the many storms that have we have experienced over the past few weeks. Chances are you have a nice burn pile ready to go, but make sure you are ready to burn your brush safely.  Keep the burn pile small, your pile may be 10 feet tall but start with smaller branches and gradually add bigger branches, this will keep your fire more manageable Your fire should be at least 75 feet away from your home – and make sure you have quick access to a water source. Never leave your fire unattended or attempt to burn your brush in windy conditions.  Check with your state and local Forestry Commission prior to burning outdoors. There may be local ordinances for open burning, so prior approval may be necessary. Learn before you burn and make safety your priority when dealing with any type of fire.

Fire Safety Tips for Spring

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Don't let this be your home.. Fire Safety is key to keep your home and family safe.

Most often we only think about Fire Safety in the winter months but it’s also important when preparing for Spring! Protecting your home and family from fire any fire hazard should always be a priority.

As you begin your spring cleaning – check you filters although you may change them monthly switching from heat to air conditioning can cause more dust and debris in your filters so change them prior to keeping your home cool when the temperatures start to rise.

Check your batteries in your smoke detectors – if you can’t remember the last time you changed them – then now is a good time to do it.  Use a sharpie and write the month and year on the battery. This will be your reminder because let’s face it most of us can’t remember what we did yesterday much less months ago.

If you haven’t fired up the grill all winter make sure to give it a good cleaning prior grilling out – check for bird’s nest that may have set up a residence while you were cooped up inside.

The temperatures are warming up and Spring is near, but so is the next house fire if you are not careful.

Tips to keep your home Fire Safe!

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

One match can cause a major house fire.

• Cooking is the #1 cause of house fires - Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you must leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.
• Space heaters need their space - Keep fixed and portable space heaters at least 3 feet from anything that is flammable and never leave space heaters on while you are away from your home.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.
• Inspect electrical cords often – especially your smartphone cords – they tend to become frayed sooner than normal electrical cords. Replace any cords that have any visible damage or broken plugs.
• Install smoke alarms and check the batteries monthly and replace them often – test your alarms often.
• Have a fire escape plan and practice it often with your family.
• Candles smell great but they are also a fire hazard – keep candles away from flammable items and never leave your home or go to bed with a candle burning.

Winter with Space Heaters

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Surge Protector Overload - and what can happen!

Here in the South, we experienced an unusually cold December, and these cold temperatures will only get worse.  Our central heat can sometimes leave us cold, so we tend to break out the space heater for larger drafty areas in your home that are harder to keep warm. Whatever you do, do not plug these heaters into a power strip.  Power strips and extension cords are not designed to handle the high current flow needed for a space heater and can overheat or even catch fire. Purchase newer model space heaters as they have the most current safety features. Choose a heater that allows you to adjust the temperature to avoid overheating. Always place your heaters on a hard level surface that are not in close contact to drapes, furniture or in the line of pets or children.   Following these few simple steps can help make winter a little more bearable and safer or you and your family!

Christmas Is Here

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let your Christmas Tree go up in Flames!

Everywhere you go – It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas!  Christmas Lights and decorated trees are a beautiful site to see this time of year.  But always remember safety first. One in every four house fires around the holidays is caused by tree fires.  Always place your tree away from any heat source like a fireplace, heat vents and radiators. Check your water base daily if you have a live tree – especially those first few days after being cut.  When installing lights make sure they have all been lab tested. Use lights that produce low heat this will reduce drying of your live tree. Inspect light sets prior to placing them on your tree for any frayed wires or broken bulbs.  It’s the most wonderful time of the year – follow these safety tips to assure your family is safe this Holiday Season.

Turkey Talk

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

Dont let this happen to your Thanksgiving Turkey!

Turkey Talk

The Holiday Season is upon us – we are all about the kickoff the season with cooking! Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires and if you are frying your Turkey this holiday season that risk of a cooking fire increases.

• Use a Turkey fryer outside only – on a sturdy level surface – away from anything flammable and always remember the 3ft pet and kid zone around your turkey fryer
• Make sure your turkey is completely thawed prior to putting it into the hot grease – a partially frozen turkey will cause an overflow in your fryer
• Check your grease temperature often to avoid a grease fire
• Use cooking gloves – the lid and handles can get extremely hot and cause burn injuries
• Never leave the fryer unattended and never use water to put out a grease fire

Following these few safety tips can help prevent a disaster this Holiday Season.

Prevent Chimney Fires -

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

This home is getting the chimney cleaned and checked by a professional cleaner.

October is Fire prevention month – so what better reminder to have your chimney checked.  As the colder weather approaches getting the home fires burning will be the icing on the cake that fall is here, and winter is coming.  Now is the time to get your chimney checked.  The National Fire Protection Association recommends that chimneys, fireplaces and vents should be inspected at least once a year.  Having your chimney inspected greatly reduces your chance of a chimney fires – as the sweep removes debris that has deposited along the chimney walls and removes any animal nests that may been accumulated over the spring and summer months.  Check the firebox for any cracks or loose joints. Hiring a professional can give you peace of mind and assurance that you are ready to get the home fires burning.

October is Fire Prevention Month!

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

What is left of the kitchen in this home in Newberry, SC

Each Year October has been identified as Fire Prevention Month.  The fire prevention week kicked off on Sunday- October 4 and will run through Saturday October 10^th. “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen” is the theme for 2020.  Cooking is the #1 cause of home fires each year with unattended cooking being the leading cause of kitchen fires.

Educate your children that the stove area is a no play zone when dinner is being prepared. This includes pets. Assure all pots and pans are turned back towards the back of the stove to avoid being grabbed or knocked over while cooking – this can cause a fire or injury to the child. Never leave your stove unattended while cooking – if you need to leave the area; make sure all burners are turned off. 

Check all smoke alarms in your home and make sure your children know what to do if the alarm goes off – have an escape plan!

Fireworks- Fun and Safety

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Holiday fireworks display

Our last summer holiday is slowly approaching – as we wind down this crazy COVID-19 summer with fireworks and barbeques let's also remember Safety First.  Fireworks start an average of 19,500 fires each year. Having a safety plan before your festivities begin can prevent fire damage and injury to your family and friends.  Plan an area that is clear, level, and free of trees and structures. Never point or throw fireworks at another person and maintain a safe distance between you and the lighting area. Children should not be around the fireworks area; fireworks are dangerous and should only be handled by adults. Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby just in case and never set off fireworks if your area is in a drought state – your chances of a fire are much greater.   Keep your pets inside as they can be scared easily, and you do not want to take a chance of losing your 4-legged family member. Enjoy the last hooray of summer but keep your friends and family safe.

Fire - Soot and Cleanup

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO team removing soot damage from the walls and ceilings in a home in Newberry, SC after a kitchen fire.

A small kitchen fire can cause damage to several rooms and personal items without you even calling the Fire Department. No matter how big or small the fire was – the damage is done. Smoke damage is a health risk and should not be taken lightly. The smoke may clean quickly but its most likely found it way in your HVAC vents, walls, and your furnishings. Soot damage is common after a fire – it's black and it can cling to surfaces such as walls and ceilings and the contents of your home. Being proactive and quick on the removal of soot and smoke damage is imperative. This task is not an easy one and having your home professional cleaned is your best alternative to making sure your home is clean and safe for your family.

House Fire and Pack-Outs

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

Multiple boxes packed by the SERVPRO team after a house fire in Laurens, SC

House fires can cause major stress on you and your family. Even a small contained fire can cause smoke and water damage to your personal belongings, furniture, pictures and keepsakes.  Don’t think all is lost – SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties specializes in pack-outs. This consists of securely packing up your household items and transporting them to our secure warehouse location to clean and complete the restoration of your personal belongings. This is s tedious task and one the homeowner should not need to worry about especially after experiencing a house fire. We understand how difficult this is but you can trust our team of trained professionals to handle your belongs with kid gloves. SERPVO will store your items until your home is ready to move back in. We pride ourselves to make it "Like it never even happened." 

Kitchen Fires and How to Prevent them from Happening

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

This was what was left after a fire broke out in the kitchen of a home in Newberry, SC.

More than half of house fires start in the kitchen not because of your awesome cooking – because sometimes we just haven’t been educated on how to prevent them from happening. Safe cooking tips are crucial in preventing kitchen fires. Your wardrobe is important when cooking – do not wear lose clothing while cooking they can easily catch fire.  Pat down poultry – wet chicken can spark a grease fire if it’s wet going into the hot grease.  Never use water to put out a grease fire – it will make things worse. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. If you do not have an extinguisher use baking powder to put out the flames. If you experience an oven fire – close the door – the fire will extinguish by itself.  Following these few fire safety tips can help prevent a fire from occurring – most of all don’t panic and call 911 if you feel your home is in danger.

Turkey Frying Tips

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Turkey Fryer fire inside a home garage

Thanksgiving is only a few days away which means some families will take cooking to a whole new level. This is the time that safety should be key when it comes to frying a Turkey.  According to the National Fire Protection, there are three times as many home cooking fires on Thanksgiving than any other day of the year. Follow these few safety tips if you decide to deep fry your turkey this year!

• Make sure your Turkey is completely thawed and dry. Extra water will cause the oil to spill over which can cause a fire.
• Be extra careful when you are placing the Turkey into the oil
• Place the fryer more than 10 feet away from your home and be sure to watch out for your pets and children while cooking is going on.
• Never leave the fryer unattended while cooking
• Have a multipurpose – dry powered fire extinguisher on hand in case the oil ignites and DO NOT use water to cool down a grease fire.

Following these few steps will help keep your family safe during the Thanksgiving Holiday!

Space Heater Safety

11/7/2019 (Permalink)

Space heater fire

Space heaters on average cause about 25,000 house fires and 300 deaths per year! Mostly caused by a space heater being to close to curtains, bedding or upholstered furniture. This doesn’t include the people who end up in emergency rooms from encountering space heaters. 

When shopping for heaters look for heaters that carry a safety certification label form an independent testing company. Check for automatic shutoff and tip over features – smart sensors that automatically shut off a heater when it overheats or is knocked over.

Never plug a space heater in a power strip – this can cause overheating.  Always make sure the heater is located on a hard level and nonflammable surface and make sure you never leave a space heater unattended.  SERVPRO is here to help!

How to Avoid a Kitchen Fire

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire clean up in Newberry, South Carolina

Kitchen Fire Safety

Yes, the Holidays are upon us folks and that means more cooking and celebrating. Most families cook more in the months of November and December than any other time of the year. From Thanksgiving through New Year’s, we spend a lot more time in the kitchen and believe it or not we are more prone to fires in the winter months.   Following these few tips can help prevent kitchen fires and keep your family and home safe so you can enjoy the upcoming Holidays!

• Keep appliances serviced, clean and in good repair
• Install a smoke detector near the kitchen area
• Use caution when lighting the pilot light or burner on a gas stove
• Never overfill pot or pan with excessive grease
• Never leave your stove unattended

Be safe and enjoy your family and friends this holiday season!

October is Fire Prevention Month!

10/13/2019 (Permalink)

Firefighter at work putting out a fire!

October is Fire Prevention Month- with one-week October 6^th – 12^th  highlighted to Fire Prevention Week!  During this week and month fire departments educate their schools and community on fire safety and to help raise awareness about fire safety and help assure your home and family is prepared in the event of an emergency. The National Fire Protection Association named the second week of October Fire Prevention Week in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire in 1871.  We celebrate this week urging families to improve their home’s safety by checking smoke alarms – 3 out of 5 home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no working smoke alarm.  Having functioning alarms throughout your home is the first line of defense for fire prevention. Alarms should be placed on every level of your home – and inside and outside each bedroom, kitchen and garage. Make it a point to test your alarms monthly – replace batteries as needed, have an escape plan. Home emergencies can happen at any time SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties want you to be prepared.

Grill Safety

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Fire up the Grill this Summer - Not your House

As we all begin to kick off summer for the Memorial Holiday weekend – it’s is a good time to talk about Burgers – Hotdogs -Grills and safety!

Three out of five households own a gas grill – unfortunately, about 8,900 home fires occur each year as a result of gas grills. If you have a grill master in your home, they may think they have everything under control but its more often an equipment malfunction that causes a fire to happen, more so if you have not done much grilling over the winter months.  Propane gas, fire dry air and dry grass can cook up a disaster you were not planning on serving for your weekend cookout.

Simple Precautions can save your home from a fire disaster.  Always grill outside and keep the grill away from your house, deck and patio furniture.  Check your propane tank hose for leaks. Keep your grill trays cleaned regularly. Always keep your pets and children away from the grill. Remember grills are not an oven, you cannot leave them unattended. Stay safe and enjoy these long awaited summer nights!

Be Prepared - Have a Plan

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

Fires Happen

Warm fires feel nice in the cold weather but remember that a house fire can strike at any time and almost out of nowhere. There many ways to prevent house fires from happening to you but he best way is to be prepared and have a plan!  Have your chimney cleaned and inspected yearly before fire season.  Never leave your dryer running when you are away from your home and never leave your stove unattended - especially when cooking with oil. Test you smoke detectors monthly. Be aware of electrical problems and faulty outlets.  Store any combustible items in a well-ventilated area and in proper containers.   We here at SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties specialize in restoring your home to preloss conditions and making any damage "Like it never even happened." We are here for you! 

Living Room Fires in a Laurens SC Property

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

Protect Your Home in Laurens SC From Fire Damage Caused by Chimneys and Candles

Although fires in living and family rooms are less frequent than those in more hazardous kitchen areas, they can grow to large sizes more readily and more often than those in kitchens. Many living room fires start with an accident in the fireplace, when a candle is knocked over, or when an electronic device comes into contact with water or otherwise severely malfunctions. Regardless of their cause, these fires quickly find sufficient fuel in the surrounding area. If the fire is not extinguished quickly, it can create some of the biggest restoration projects SERVPRO finds in residential developments.

How They Start 
Fire damage in Laurens living rooms typically starts from one of three sources: the hearth, candles, or electronic malfunctions. Fireplace accidents are easily created if proper safeguards such as containment bars are not in place, and can produce heavy amounts of smoke in addition to larger blazes. Clogged or unclean chimneys lead to many flare-ups and roof fires. Candle fires are often relatively benign if they start while someone is in the room, but can sometimes start silently when the room is left unattended, blossoming into a large disaster. Electrical fires usually require some accident on a resident's part to start up, so while those can become large very quickly, they are typically hit with fire extinguishers before they get out of hand. 
 
Problems Faced in Restorations 
The main challenge SERVPRO faces in restoring these fires are in their size. Living rooms may contain fabric carpeting and furniture, flammable bookcases, and numerous small objects that quickly spread fires out from their origin. Also, when dealing with hearths, large volumes of smoke may present additional hurdles. Before we begin any work beyond standard mitigation, we develop a clear action plan to tackle significant problems that arise. Through our expert training and superior equipment, we can deal with fires of any size given time. 
 
SERVPRO of  Newberry and Laurens Counties has battled many fires since its founding. If your home has taken fire damage, call us anytime at (864) 833-4411 or (803) 276-0290 
 

Fire Safety Tips

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Fire safety is a very important thing to be aware of, and everyone should know the basic safety procedures to prepare for a possible fire and what to do if a fire occurs. 

Preparing for Home Fires

1. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home.
2. Test smoke alarms every month to make sure they are working properly.
3. Plan and discuss a fire escape plan with your family. 

During a Fire

1. Escape immediately using the best route.
2. If a door handle or door feels warm, do not open it and get out of the home using a different route.
3. Once you are out to the building call 911.
4. Never go back inside for anything.
5. If your clothes catch on fire: STOP, DROP, and ROLL!
6. If you're stuck inside the house, cover any area where smoke might get in and find a way to signal help that you are still in the house. Do this by either calling 911 and telling them, or find a flashlight or phone light and hold it up to a window.

These are just a few of the basic rules in dealing with home fires. If you experience a home fire, SERVPRO of West Greenville County is here to make this hard situation much more bearable.

Call us at 803-276-0290 864-833-4411 if you need help restoring your home after fire damage!

October is Fire Prevention Month

10/18/2017 (Permalink)

The U.S. Fire Administration reports that fires kill more than 4,000 Americans each year and approximately injure 20,000 more. U.S. fire departments respond to nearly 2 million fires each year, with three-quarters of them occurring in residences.

This month, make sure your home is protected from (and your family is prepared for) a fire. Here are 10 simple tips to help you avoid fires and reduce the risk of injury should one occur:

1) Smoke Alarms – These are still a very important addition to your home. Smoke alarms are widely available and inexpensive. Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home and test it monthly.

2) Prevent Electrical Fires – Don’t overload circuits or extension cords. Cords and wires should never be placed under rugs or in high traffic areas. Avoid loose electrical connections by checking the fit of the plug in the wall outlet. If the plug loosely fits, inspect the outlet right away. A poor connection between the plug and the outlet can cause overheating and can start a fire in minutes.

3) Keep Plugs Safe – Unplug all appliances when not in use. Follow the manufacturer’s safety precautions and use your senses to spot any potential disasters. If a plug is overheating, smells strange, shorts out or sparks – the appliance should be shut off immediately, then replaced or repaired.

4) Alternate Heaters – Make sure there is ample space around any portable heating unit. Anything that could catch fire should be at least three feet away. Inspect your chimney annually and use fire screens to help keep any fires in the fireplace.

5) Fire Safety Sprinklers – When combined with working smoke alarms, home fire sprinklers greatly increase your chance of surviving a fire. Sprinklers are affordable and they can increase property value and lower insurance rates.

6) Create An Escape Route – Create and practice your escape plan with your family from every room in the house. Practice staying low to the floor and checking for hot doors using the back of your hand. It’s just like a routine school fire drill – but in your home.

7) Position Appliances Carefully – Try to keep TV sets, kitchen and other appliances away from windows with curtains. If there is a wiring problem, curtains can spread a fire quickly. Additionally, keeping your appliances away from water sources (like rain coming in from windows) can help prevent wiring damage which can lead to a fire.

8) Clean Dryer Vents – Clothes dryers often start fires in residential areas. Clean the lint filter every time you start a load of clothes to dry or after the drying cycle is complete. Make sure your exhaust duct is made of metal tubing and not plastic or foil. Clean the exhaust duct with a good quality dryer vent brush to prevent blockage & check for lint build up behind the dryer at least twice a year.

9) Be Careful Around the Holidays – If you fill your home with lights during the holiday season, keep them away from anything that can easily catch fire. Check all of your lights prior to stringing them up and dispose of anything with frayed or exposed wires.

10) Conduct Regular Inspections – Check all of your electronic equipment and wiring at least once a month. Taking a little time to do this each month can really pay off.

Following these simple tips could potentially save your life or the life of a loved one. Pass this list on to your friends and family and make this fire prevention month count!

10 Tips for Fire Safety

11/15/2016 (Permalink)

1. Watch your cooking
   1. Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you must leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.
2. Give space heaters space
   1. Keep fixed and portable space heaters at least 3 feet from anything that can burn.
   2. Turn off heaters when you leave the room or go to sleep.
3. Smoke outside
   1. Ask smokers to smoke outside. Have you sturdy, deep ashtrays for smokers.
4. Keep matches and lighters out of reach
   1. Keep matches and lighters up high and out of children, preferably in a locked cabinet.
5. Inspect electrical cords
   1. Replace cords that are cracked or damaged, have broken plugs, or have loose connections.
6. Install smoke alarms
   1. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas.
   2. Interconnect smoke alarms throughout the home. When one sounds they all sound.
7. Have a home fire escape plan
   1. Make a home fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year.
8. Be careful when using candles
   1. Keep candles at least 1 food from anything that can burn. Blow out candles when you leave the room or go to sleep
9. Test smoke alarms
   1. Test smoke alarms at least once a month and replace batteries once a year or when the alarm “chirps” to tell you the battery is low. Replace any smoke alarm that is more than 10 years old.
10. Install sprinklers
    1. If you are building or remodeling your home, consider installing a home fire sprinkler system. If moving into an apartment or condominium building, make sure common areas and individual apartments are sprinklered. Sprinklers can limit a fire and may even extinguish it in less time than it would take the fire department to arrive.