Recent Fire Damage Posts

Tips on How to Recover From a Fire

8/7/2023 (Permalink)

Damaged Ceiling Damaged Ceiling From Fire and Water Loss

Fire damage can be a devastating experience for homeowners. Not only does it destroy your property, but it can also put your life at risk. Fires can happen at any time and can be caused by various factors such as electrical faults, gas leaks, or even human error. If a fire does occur, it is crucial to know what steps to take to minimize the damage. 

The first thing to do after a fire is to ensure that everyone is safe and accounted for. Next, call your insurance company to report the fire. Cleaning up after a fire can be a daunting task, and it is essential to do it correctly. 

SERVPRO® has highly trained professionals who specialize in fire damage restoration and are ready to revitalize your home to pre-fire condition "Like it never even happened." We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Remember to prioritize safety, report the fire to your insurance company, and start the cleanup process as soon as possible. With the right approach, you can restore your property and get your life back on track.

Fire Prevention Tips For The Holidays

10/28/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Tips for the upcoming Holidays. 

With the holidays right around the corner, it will be beneficial for homeowners to be better informed about these tips. 

This awareness can provide risk prevention measures, so that you can enjoy the holidays worry free. 

Statistics show that U.S Fire Departments respond to an estimated average of 790 home structure fires per year. 

How to not be a part of that statistic? 

  • When choosing holiday decorations, choose ones that are flame resistant. ? When lighting candles, keep them away from any decorations that might be flammable. 
  • Test your smoke alarms regularly and inform any guests about your fire escape plan. 
  • Always make sure you turn off tree lights and lit decorations before leaving your home or going to bed. 
  • Keep any flammable items at least 3 ft away from the fireplace, and use a fire screen. 
  • When trying to heat your home make sure to not use a cooking range or oven. 
  • Always have a fire extinguisher handy. 

Please feel free to share these tips with your loved ones, neighbors, and friends. Should a situation arise there’s a few things you should remember; exit to safety, call emergency services, then lastly SERVPRO to help assess the damages.

The Best Fire Damage Restoration Services in Redondo Beach

8/26/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees wiping off wood framing that suffered from smoke damage. Fire Damage Experts

We get called upon to help with all types of disasters here at SERVPRO of Redondo Beach/Manhattan Beach. Our reputation has earned us the trust of countless homeowners across the South Bay-- including Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach and El Segundo.

Accidents happen, unexpected fires to a property can be distressing and can cause major inconvenience to an individuals life.  

Our wonderful team here at SERVPRO of Redondo/Manhattan Beach work around the clock to help individuals who are experiencing fire damage to their homes and work spaces. We help with a rapid response to get your properties back to preloss conditions so you can go back some normalcy in your life. 

Who Do I Call to Help With My Fire/Smoke Damage???

We can be reached 24/7/365 for any questions, or to schedule an assessment at the number listed below.

(310) 939-9293

Understanding Fire Risks

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

There are estimated to be around 350,000 house fires on a yearly basis. The most common cause for house fires are unattended or unsupervised cooking in the kitchen area. Tragically, the percentage of casualties due to house fires reaches an estimated 70% altogether. SERVPRO of Redondo Beach/Manhattan Beach operates locally which gives us the opportunity to be the quickest to any size disaster. From start to finish our helpful office staff and knowledgeable field crew can help ease the tremendous hardship that results from such accidents. The clean up & restoration portion of it would be a thing of the past with us at your side, helping you return your home to pre loss condition "Like it never even happened."

Wondering what helpful tips you can use to prevent a fire?

Lets go over a few suggestions:

  • Monitoring stove/oven when in use
  • Inspecting outlets when not in use
  • Storing flammable materials in a safe & dry location
  • Keeping fire starters such as matches or lighters away from children
  • Grooming outdoor trees, bushes, or plants to keep out of power line obstruction

For any further information regarding our services or questions you may have, we encourage everyone to reach out to us at (310)939-9293 or visit us on our website at SERVPROredondobeachmanhattanbeach.com. 

Common Causes of Fire Sources & Ways of Prevention

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Being knowledgeable of what to look out for to prevent a fire could be the key to saving lives, time, & money. It is well known that once started, a fire could very well grow out of control & destroy anything in its path. Here at SERVPRO of Redondo beach/Manhattan Beach we take any & all size disasters incredibly serious & work to the best of our capability to ensure your home or business is taken care of. First & foremost, lets take a look at a list of possible factors that could start an unexpected fire: 

  • Devices that generate heat (Stove, heaters, candles, etc.)
  • Smoking
  • lightning (Natural causes)
  • Children (Accidental/Curiosity)
  • Chemicals & Gases 

Most devices generate heat, so it is best to not leave those items unsupervised or in use for a prolonged period of time. Negligent smoking habits are another common source for a fire to arise from; For this reason, smoking should be done in an open area or away from children. A natural source of fire such as Thunder or Lightning is unpredictable, in a situation such as this one prepare to the best of your ability and have emergency contacts ready for use if need be. Unattended or neglected children may be prone to knocking over a candle or lighting a match out of accident or curiosity. Keeping them informed about the dangers & risks of a fire outbreak is one way to help prevent this from happening. Chemicals & gases are extremely flammable & should be kept in a dry &  secure location away from any possible contact that may cause them to ignite. 

If, for any reason, a fire outbreak presents itself in your home or business, SERVPRO of Redondo Beach/Manhattan Beach is here to help. With a 24 hour service emergency ready crew, we are the fastest to any size disaster. The clean up & restoration process will be a thing of the past as we surely bring back your property to pre loss condition "Like it never even happened." For any questions, comments, or concerns we can be reached at (310)939-9293 or visit us on our website at www.SERVPROredondobeachmanhattanbeach.com.

Choosing the Appropriate Fire Extinguisher

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

a door frame that leads to the kitchen covered in smoke soot SERVPRO of Redondo Beach/Manhattan Beach is happy to present some helpful fire extinguisher facts for our South Bay Beach City communities.

Whether you’re planning a family weekend barbecue, experimenting in the kitchen, or want to be prepared for any unexpected electrical fires; choosing the right fire extinguisher can be a daunting task. SERVPRO of Redondo Beach/Manhattan Beach is happy to present some helpful fire extinguisher facts for our South Bay Beach City communities. While we pride ourselves in our quick response once disaster strikes, we also prioritize preventative measures to assure your dream home stays protected. 

Fire Extinguisher Classes

  • Class A: This happens to be the most common. With this type, you’re able to put out fires in ordinary flammable materials such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper, and many plastics. 
  • Class B: This extinguisher targets flammable liquids. Have a family cooking event? Use this tool to put out substances such as grease, gasoline, or oil. 
  • Class C: Not only is it important to do maintenance checks to avoid any pipe leaks. It’s important to catch potential electrical fires. This tool will help put out appliances, tools, and other electronically powered appliances and materials.
  • Class D: If you’re looking for a commercial grade extinguisher, this tool will help put out fire to metals such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium. 
  • Class K: Looking for a commercial grade extinguisher for your commercialized kitchen? This tool helps put out fires that are associated with vegetable oils, animal oils, and animal fats.

We hope this guide has been helpful to you. Experiencing a fire disaster? Call us today at 310-939-9293!

Tips to Preventing Electrical Fires in Redondo Beach

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

soot damage from electrical fire in the kitchen coming from microwave Avoid connecting too many devices onto one outlet. This can lead to your outlet being overloaded.

Many common appliances run the risk of creating an electrical fire. Such appliances include dryers, stoves, microwaves, and toasters. Should you be faced with this kind of disaster, make sure not to attempt to put out the fire with water as the water creates a risk of electrocution. 

What to Do:

  1. Baking soda may be used instead of water if it is safe to do so. 
  2. Make sure to turn off both the appliance and the circuit breaker or the fuse box’s main switch. 
  3. Call 911 if necessary. 

How to Prevent: 

  1. Avoid connecting too many devices onto one outlet. This can lead to your outlet being overloaded.
  2. Turn off large appliances like washing machines and dishwashers so they are not left running overnight.
  3. Have a smoke detector and check it regularly to make sure it is functioning properly.

And remember, SERVPRO of Redondo Beach/Manhattan Beach is on standby to help you address any restoration needs.

Best Fire Damage Restoration Services in Town

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Garage with soot damage from a candle fire Fire Damage Services in Redondo/Manhattan Beach

When dealing with devastating fire damages to your property, you need to make sure you're dealing with the best restoration company in town. You need to ensure you get everything you need from the restoration company to help get your property back to preloss conditions...

Fire damage is not cheap, and takes time to get everything situated. This is why it's important to hire a company like SERVPRO to provide the insurance with an itemized estimate and detailed scope of work for your benefit.

Why Hire SERVPRO of Redondo/Manhattan Beach?

Here at SERVPRO of Redondo/Manhattan Beach, we've helped countless property owners who suffered from fire damage get their lives back on track. Our experience from helping a variety of properties from extensive fire damage has put us on the map in the beach cities.

From dealing with your insurance directly, to providing reconstruction services to help speed up the process, we're always here to help 24/7/365. Our track record of results has earned us the trust with all major insurance carriers. We are here to make it... "Like it never even happened." 

Fire Prevention & Safety

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

The best way to protect yourself and your home from fire is to identify and remove any possible fire hazards.

Keep flammable objects away from space heaters and never smoke in bed! You'd be surprised how the most simple things can result in disaster.

Be careful while cooking, stay in the room if any heat source is active. This is a majorly overlooked aspect of emergency fire situations. 

Most home fire deaths occur in homes with no working smoke alarms. During a home fire, working smoke alarms and a fire escape plan can help save lives.

If you follow the above mentioned tips, you will drastically increase your chances of survival during a fire.

If your property has a fire, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO Redondo Beach for a quick response to your emergency. We'll make it, "Like it never even happened."

310-939-9293

Wildfire Preparedness

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

PLAN. PREPARE. STAY AWARE

Northern California is dealing with extreme wildfires and could possibly get even worse in the next few days. If you live near the area it's best to have a plan of action for you and your loved ones if the situation gets worse. 

Being prepared for evacuation can help you have a plan of action so you won't be trapped and leave anything behind.

Follow these steps to be prepared.

  1. Prepare family emergency packages for every individual in the family. Water, snacks, extra pair of clothes, medication, etc...
  2. Be sure to monitor your local emergency response plan, evacuation centers, evacuation orders, safety routes.
  3. Make an emergency checklist for your house. Ensure that the gas is off, all windows are closed, any highly flammable products away from your home or windows.
  4. Cover up well and protect yourself. Wear long-sleeved clothing (avoid shorts) wear heavy duty shoes/boots, face mask. googles, etc.
  5. Locate ALL PETS and take them with you.  

Financial Disaster Preparedness

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Aftermath of a house fire Fire Damage Services

Financial Preparedness Tips

Natural disasters can happen anywhere and anytime. You can protect yourself by financially planning ahead of time before a disaster situation arises. When disasters strike, Americans at all income levels have difficult challenges of rebuilding and getting back in their homes after dealing with a disaster. 

It's important to know that in order to get started with a quick and effective recovery phase after suffering from a disaster, you need the right personal information to get the balls rolling. Whether that's having personal access to financial, medical, insurance and other records, its crucial to have this vital information available to you at all times to begin the process of getting your property back to preloss condition.

Download The EFFAK to Prepare You For Disasters

For more helpful disaster preparedness tips you can always download the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit to help you get started on planning for the unexpected.

You can also download SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Profile app for free by copying the link below to help with a rapid response for fire & water damage emergencies:  https://ready.SERVPRO.com/

Fire Safety Tips

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

Studies show that you may only have two minutes to act when a fire starts in your home. If the time ever comes, you'll want to make sure you put yourself in the best possible position to make it out alive.

Here are the top tips for prevention and safety:

1. Install smoke alarms on every floor of your house. This includes bedrooms and hallways! An early warning can be the difference between life and death.

2. Test these alarms every month or so. They'll do you no good if the batteries are dead.

3. Discuss a fire escape plan with anyone living in the house and practice where you would go.

4. Call for help immediately and never go back inside the burning building!

For fire cleanup and restoration - call SERVPRO to make it, "Like it never even happened."

310-939-9293

After The Fire

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

Dealing with unexpected disasters is devastating. It can change your life forever; water, fire, sewage, mold, whatever it may be, it's always going to be an inconvenience and change you in many ways. Knowing where to start and who to reach out for help is important. 

Contact Your Insurance Agent For Help

Call your insurance Agent and let them know your situation and how they can help. Usually they'll recommend to contact SERVPRO to help with cleanup and restoration services, along with proper documentation of everything for your insurance claim.

If you don't have insurance. You can reach out to local organizations who might be able to help.

What Next?

Family first. Make sure you and your loved ones are safe and out of danger. Contact your local disaster relief services, The Salvation Army, The American Red Cross, ETC. They can help provide shelter, food, clothing, medicines, and almost anything you need after an event of a disaster.

Help Your Pets

Try to leave your pet with a family member, or a friend during the process if possible. Comfort your pet as they can be in shock just as much as you are. Avoid keeping your pets at the location where the loss occurred, show them love and keep them safe.

The Fire Damage Restoration Experts

You can always call our office for help when  dealing with the aftermath of a fire. We work with countless homeowners after suffering from fire/smoke/soot damages to their properties. We are ready to respond 24/7/365 when you need us most. 

CALL US TODAY!

(310) 939-9293

Fire Extinguisher Cleanup In Los Angeles and Beach Cities.

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Aftermath of a kitchen fire. Fire/Smoke/Soot Cleanup Services

The month of October is Fire Prevention Month and a perfect time to ensure safety for your home or business, including knowing the best type of fire extinguishers for your property.

Here at SERVPRO of Redondo/ Manhattan Beach we stand on over 15 years of experience and expertise to help ensure you stay safe, informed, and ready for any disasters that come your way. We offer emergency services 24/7/365 if you deal with fire/smoke/soot damage or need some cleanup services after putting out some flames using your fire extinguisher.

We can be reached at (310) 939-9293 for any questions or quotes on cleanup.

Different Fire Extinguishers and Their Purpose...

  • ABC Powder Fire Extinguisher is one of the most common and multi purpose extinguishers on the market. This is a chemical powder that acts to suffocate the fire but leaves lots of residue.  
  • Clean Agent Fire Extinguisher is very eco friendly and safe to use around humans. Best part about this extinguisher is that it doesn't leave any residue and no need for cleanup. (Best for offices filled with electronics/computers/server rooms)
  • Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguishers is another cleaner type of extinguisher that leaves no residue and requires no cleanup.

Keep Fall in Redondo Beach/ Manhattan Beach Fire Free

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

The fall season brings cooler temperatures, beautiful colors, the holidays, and great memories with family and loved ones. Plan ahead this season to help ensure it is safe and fire free.

Fire/Smoke/Soot Damage Cleanups In Redondo Beach/ Manhattan Beach.

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration, we stand on over 50 years of experience and expertise to help ensure you stay safe, informed, and ready for disaster that comes your way. The time to prepare is now. Call SERVPRO of Redondo/ Manhattan Beach franchise professionals to make sure your home and business are " Ready for whatever happens."

24 Hour Emergency Dispatch for Fire Damage Cleanup.

SERVPRO of Redondo Beach/ Manhattan Beach can be reached around the clock, 365 days out of the year at (310) 939-9293

24/7 Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Services in Manhattan Beach.

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

Number of fires per year Fire Hazards

When you are dealing with fire & smoke damage, always remember that SERVPRO of Redondo/ Manhattan Beach has the track record of results to help anyone get their properties back to pre loss conditions. As a preferred vendor for most major insurance carriers, SERVPRO is ready to help you with your insurance claim and make it...

"Like it never even happened."

Caution Asbestos Hazard

Safety precautions for workers and occupants is our number one priority. Before we can start any demolition after a fire loss, its always important to check to see what year the house was built.

Anything prior to 1986 is required to be tested for lead and asbestos by California State Law. When materials containing lead-asbestos paint are demolished or lead based paint is sanded or scraped, the chips and dust particles from the paint can pose health hazards to anyone breathing or contacting the debris. Materials that are believed to contain asbestos or lead should be tested by a qualified lab. Be sure to consult the insurance adjuster if you suspect asbestos or lead containing materials are present. 

Los Angeles County 24 Hour Emergency Fire & Water Damage Services

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Truck SERVPRO of Redondo/ Manhattan Beach provides 24 hour emergency fire & water damage restoration services in the Los Angeles County.

SERVPRO of Redondo/ Manhattan Beach is available 24 hours, 7 days a week for emergency fire & water damage services, big or small, we stay ready to make it "Like it never even happened." When dealing with fire & water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the fire & water damage.

Our 24/7 dispatchers are ready to respond to your emergency calls.

Call us today (310)939-9293

When you call, we will ask you a series of questions regarding your emergency situation. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO representative will ask several questions...

  • Name and contact info?
  • Your insurance info?
  • Address where the incident occurred? 
  • When did the incident occur?
  • What caused the damages you're dealing with?
  • Is their electricity available on-site?

 When fire and water damage take control of your life, we help you take it back!

Structural Cleaning, Contents Cleaning, Deodorization For Fires

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning Soot Residue Fire Cleanup

Structural Cleaning 

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. Our experienced team will pretest to determine the extent of damage, then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found within the structure. 

Contents Cleaning

All of the restorable contents in the affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery. Additionally, all of the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, etc. ... The best part is , we can provide an inventory list of all "to be claimed" items for agents and their policyholders.

Deodorization

We specialize in services that rid your home or business of offensive odors left behind by fire or smoke damage. Please call us today for any questions, (310) 939-9293

Fire Damage Restoration in Redondo Beach/Manhattan Beach

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO staff cleaning soot Fire Restoration in Manhattan Beach

Fire, smoke, and soot damage is not something to cut corners in. This is simply not the job for a do it yourself property manager or maintenance staff. Returning the property to preloss condition requires professional restoration expertise.

Here at SERVPRO of Redondo/Manhattan Beach we got what it takes to get you back on your feet after a fire. With more than 50 years of industry experience, SERVPRO is a leader in fire, water, mold, and other specialty cleanup and restoration services.

Our staff is up to date with specialized training. The SERVPRO team is IICRC certified, along with numerous certifications for health and safety. We are a top vendor for most major insurance carriers, we've help countless property owners get their lives back on the road by staying ready when the community needs us most!

Available 24/7/365, our team is ready to make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO's EMERGENCY DISPATCH#

(310) 939-9293

California Fires: SERVPRO Here To Help!

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

The past several of weeks California has been dealing with wild fires and putting the California residents in danger. Evacuations has been issued in certain areas throughout California until further notice. 

SERVPRO has grown steadily for years because of top quality service. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of countless homeowners dealing with fire/smoke/soot damage.

If you are a homeowner/property owner who has been a victim of the fires, we can help! We have the resources and man power to deal with the aftermath of these California Wild Fires.

If you would like SERVPRO to help get you back in your home or commercial facilities... please give us a call to schedule an inspection with our certified technicians.

Call us at (310) 939-9293 so we can get down all the information needed to schedule inspection.

The insurance industry has complete trust in SERVPRO. We have national accounts with all major insurance carriers to help with your claim process.

Call SERVPRO today so we can make it...

"Like it never even happend"

Redondo/Manhattan Beach Residents Rely On SERVPRO For Fire & Water Damage Cleanup & Restoration

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Women in distress after a fire in her kitchen Fire, smoke, and soot damage repair

The Residents of Redondo Beach/Manhattan Beach have been relying on SERVPRO of Redondo/Manhattan Beach for the past 15 years! 

Our track record of results has earned us the trust of our local residents to respond to any unexpected emergencies with a rapid response.

Our certified technicians are are ready to respond and constantly taking the streets to be there when you need us most!

 SERVPRO Employees receive training and certification from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and follow IICRC guidelines for water/fire and smoke damage repair.

This includes following emergency clean-up procedures and making necessary arrangements for other services that may be required, such as board up, pack outs, testing, etc...

If you’ve recently experienced a fire at your home or business, give our team of smoke and fire restoration professionals a call at

(310)939-9293

SERVPRO of Redondo Beach/Manhattan Beach is located at 811 N Catalina Avenue, Suite#1310, Redondo Beach, California 90277 

Available 24/7 ready to respond to all the Redondo Beach residents, Manhattan Beach residents, and all of Los Angeles County!

California Fire Damage

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

This year there have been multiple wildfire emergencies throughout California. The results can seem random, but really they're not. Firefighters and researchers have formed a solid understanding of why some houses are more vulnerable to catch on fire.

In California, the Santa Ana, or Diablo winds play a major role in the spread of tiny bits of ember.These embers can travel through the air and ignite almost anything it touches. Houses that are in a particularly dry or open location are even more prone to disaster. 

Researchers recommend using a "coupled approach" to create a defensible space that protect from the outside world. It's not just luck that causes one house to burn, it's science. 

In any event, it's best to stay prepared if the worst does happen! Think about setting up a free profile with us today! 

https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/readyprogram

What To Do After My Property Suffered From a Fire

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

We Can Help After The Fire

You are in shock and realized your property just went up in flames. You are in disbelief. The firefighters did what they had to do to contain the fire, they now have left you and your family alone. What to do now??

Your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Redondo Beach/ Manhattan Beach has specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire conditions. Here are some steps to help you and your family get back in your home A.S.A.P.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect and test all rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action. 

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. 

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Safety Reminder for Independence Day

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

SAFETY FIRST

The year 2019 is racing by and we are that close to our Independence Day! With that being said, you know that Independence Day and Fireworks are synonymous...

The great news is that Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Manhattan Beach are all cities that don't permit fireworks of any kind... YES, even sparklers! We all know that there will be a few teenagers, kids, or even immature parents who won't obey the rules and will break the law by celebrating with fireworks.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) say people report more fires on the Fourth of July than on any other day out of the year.

Children are always at risk. Those between the ages of 5-9 years old are the most likely to be hurt by fireworks. Kids 10 to 19 followed as the second most vulnerable group. In 2018 alone, firecrackers and similar explosives injured nearly 9,000 youths.

You may believe “kiddie” fireworks like "sparklers" or "bloomers" aren’t dangerous. The truth is, they can cause fires or serious injuries. In fact, sparklers caused more than a quarter of fireworks-related damage in 2015. That makes a lot of sense after you hear sparklers burn at 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you do decide to have some fun with fireworks... Be sure to be prepared and have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby.

SAFETY FIRST!

Do's & Don'ts: After The Fire

4/18/2019 (Permalink)

Once you have experienced a fire either on your business property or home, feeling lost and traumatized is always the initial feeling.  Here at SERVPRO of Redondo Beach/Manhattan Beach we are prepared to help with safety as our number one concern.  Here are a few Emergency Fire Damage Tips to help reduce damages and speed up the restoration process:

  • Keeps your hands,  if soot is on the hands it may further soil items.
  • To prevent soot particles being stained on any carpet or wood, limit movement.
  • Do not turn on any ceiling fans or any electrical appliances if wet.
  • Do not try to shampoo carpet or any upholstered furniture unless consulting with a fire cleanup professional. 

Available 24 hours a day 7 days a week do not hesitate to give SERVPRO of Redondo Beach/Manhattan Beach a call for any emergency fire, or water damage.  

Equipment Needed For Fire Damage Restoration

4/18/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Restoration Equipment

Fire damage cleanup focuses on purifying contaminated air and neutralizing odors caused by smoke. Most fire damage restoration services will use some of the following equipment to help clean and sanitize the air to bring your property to preloss conditions.

HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) vacuum – A high-powered vacuum with filters that trap airborne particles like soot. It can be used on surfaces including ceilings, walls and floors.


Air scrubber – This machine helps eliminate odors and clean the air by using a filtration system to suck air in and filter it before releasing it back into the house.


Negative air fan – Removes contaminated air that’s inside a home through ducts, creating negative air pressure (a vacuum effect).
Ozone machine – Neutralizes odors and should only be used after a house is cleaned, emptied of all contents and vacated. The machine is typically used for a couple of days and the home must be ventilated for an additional 24 hours before reentry.

Why Call SERVPRO of Redondo/ Manhattan Beach For Fire Restoration

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

The Best Fire Damage Restoration Company

Guiding our customers is what we do... We listen patiently to our customers knowing the stress and discomfort that they're going through after a fire.

We stay actively listening, taking notes, asking permission to conduct our examination, explaining test results, and answering all the questions you may have for us. Our goal is to get your home back to preloss condition and make it "Like it never even happened".

One, Four, Eight...

The 1, 4, 8,is our protocol to our emergency damage process overview.

One Hour:

Within one hour from notice of loss, one of our members will contact you to arrange for service. You'll know help is on the way!

Four Hours:

Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO technician will be on-site to start the inspection/mitigation. The key to reducing damage and saving money is to respond quickly to your damage.

Eight Hours:

Within 8 business hours of on site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.

Woosley Fires 2018

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Help

In the Month of November of 2018 California had one of its most destructive wildfires in California history.

As the inferno started to spread the panic got more serious for the residents. Over 250,000 people were evacuated from their homes.The inferno burned 96,950 acres of land. The fire destroyed 1,643 structures, in the results of 3 deaths, in which our hearts go out to the families who lost a loved one.

SERVPRO of Redondo/Manhattan Beach had the honor of helping those who were affected from the wildfires, whether it was helping with smoke/soot damage, fire/water damage, or structure cleanup.

God only knows if we have to go through these devastating fires again. Until we do, know that SERVPRO of Redondo/Manhattan Beach will be here to HELP!

7 Common Fire Starters

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

Stay Fire Proof

House fires have a pattern—they start in some places more than others. Based on research from fires that occurred between 2010 and 2018, here are the most common places fires begin:

#1: Kitchen

Half of all house fires start in the kitchen. That’s no surprise since it’s where you do the most cooking and house many appliances. This is an easy place to prevent fires since they’re normally man-made. Just keep an eye on the oven, combustible items away from the stove, and you’ll already be safer.

#2: Bedroom

About 7% of all structure fires start in the bedroom. The amount of objects in bedrooms has something to do with it. Mattresses for one, can be very flammable unless they’re new. If you have a mattress that was made before 2007, it probably doesn’t abide by the Federal Mattress Flammability Standard. All mattresses made after 2007 are flame retardant and held to a higher safety standard. Do yourself a favor and go buy one!

#3: Chimney

Like everything else, chimneys need to be cleaned. We suspect 6 percent of all house fires happen in chimneys because people neglect to have them serviced. Every time you have a fire, sap and ash from whatever you’re burning coats the inside of your chimney. Determine if your chimney needs to be cleaned by doing a scape test. Open the flue, put on protective glasses, and get a flashlight. Then, shine a light up the chimney and scrape the inside with something sharp. If the residue is 1/8 inches thick, schedule a cleaning. If residue is closer to 1/4 inch, don’t have another fire until your chimney is professionally cleaned.

#4: Living Room

Living rooms or family rooms often contain candles, fireplaces, electronics, and heating equipment. They also contain couches and other flammable items. Since 4 percent of house fires start in living rooms, we can assume these factors have something to do with it.

#5: Laundry Room

Laundry rooms are where 3 percent of all house fires begin. Dryer lint is a main cause of laundry room fire. If you don’t clean vents and filters regularly, the heat could cause lint to catch fire. Try not to run the washer or dryer when you’re not home in case something gets overheated and you need to act.

#6: Outside

House fires start outside 3% of the time. This is where people keep grills, smoke, have bonfires, and light off fireworks. Just know that if you have a fire outside, it could catch onto your home if you’re not careful.

#7: Attic

Attics aren’t always accessible, so you might not know what’s going on up there. Whether it’s a crawl space or a walk-up, make sure to hire someone or check it out yourself. Not everything in homes are done to code (if people choose the DIY route), so you might find dangerous wiring that needs fixing

Are You Up To Date With The New Mattresses?

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

Time For a New Mattress

New Federal Mattress Standard Details

A good night's sleep – that's what most consumers want from their mattress. On July 1, 2007, new mattresses will offer an additional, lifesaving benefit: better protection from a fire.

Mattresses manufactured on or after July 1, 2007 must meet the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) flammability standard. The mandatory standard is designed to reduce the severity of mattress fires ignited by open flame sources such as candles, matches and lighters.

CPSC estimates that, once fully effective, the new federal flammability standard will prevent as many as 270 deaths and 1,330 injuries every year.

CPSC Acting Chairman Nancy Nord calls the new standard an important layer of fire protection in the home.

"The new federal flammability standard limits the spread and intensity of a mattress fire," said CPSC Acting Chairman Nancy Nord. "That will give consumers valuable time to escape their homes if there's a fire and it will save lives."

The mandatory mattress rule, known as 16 CFR Part 1633, is a performance standard that limits the heat release in a mattress fire.

When shopping for a new mattress or mattress set, consumers should look for a label on the mattress stating that it meets the federal flammability requirement, and whether it is intended to be sold alone or with a specific foundation, such as a box spring.

Although this is an added layer of protection, consumers still need to keep in mind that increased fire resistance does not mean there is no fire risk. CPSC urges consumers to follow these important fire safety tips:

- Never smoke in bed.

- Do not allow kids to play with candles, lighters, matches or smoking materials.

- Do not fall asleep while a candle is burning.

- Extinguish candles before leaving the room.

- Have working smoke alarms on each level of the home and inside every bedroom.

- In case of fire, call 911 from a safe location.

Fire Facts From SERVPRO

4/16/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Safety

What is The Most Common Cause of a House Fire?

The number one source of house fires is cooking. Usually leaving pots or pans unattended on the stove while you run away to do something for “just a minute.” The NFPA says that 40% of all house fires, or an average of 156,600 per year, start this way, causing approximately $853 million in property damage.

Some Other Common Causes of Fire that Play a Big Role Are...

  • Cooking Equipment. ...
  • Heating. ...
  • Smoking in bedrooms. ...
  • Electrical Equipment. ...
  • Candles. ...
  • Curious Children. ...
  • Faulty Wiring. ...
  • Barbecues.
  • flammable liquids
  • lighting

What are some Potential Fire Hazards?

  • Waste and combustible material being stored on site. ...
  • Flammable liquids and vapours. ...
  • Dust build-up. ...
  • Objects that generate heat. ...
  • Faulty electrical equipment. ...
  • Overloading power sockets. ...
  • Smoking. ...
  • Human error and negligence.

These are just some of the most common things that could cause a fire at your home or commercial facility.

Always make sure to test your smoke detectors before going to bed, this takes seconds and in seconds you can save yourself or a loved one from any harm.

House Fire? Preparedness Advice

4/3/2018 (Permalink)

KEEP YOUR FAMILY SAFE

What I want to write on today is how to exit a burning structure. The situation that is of most concern is waking up in the night to a fire. You are sleepy and not fully alert. If you are lucky, your smoke detector has alerted you early in the progress of the fire. With children in the home, an alarm that has a voice recording option is best.

The first thing that many people do once they realize their home is on fire is to sit up in bed. This can be a major mistake because, as we all know, heat and smoke rise. Instead, have a plan to roll out of bed and stay low on the floor, until you can determine the situation. Don’t make the mistake of sticking your head up into what could be smoke and hot gases. Smoke in a house fire can contain some very nasty poisons and should be avoided if possible. The temperature between floor level and ceiling height can be as much as several hundred degrees.

Hopefully, prior to the fire, you have planned an escape route and know your way outside. For myself, even if I am spending the night in a hotel or someone else’s home, I plan an escape route.

If you wake up in a fire, get on the floor and crawl to your exit point. If you have to open doors, use the back of your hand to feel and see if the door is hot from fire on the other side. If you live on a second floor, plan on how you will be able to reach the groundandhow your kids will reach the ground.You can buy fire escape laddersthat work well. If you are in a high rise, do not use the elevators. In some cases, the fire shorts out the elevator buttons and the elevator will go to the fire floor and the doors will open, leaving you trapped.

Set off your smoke detectors late at night and see if they will wake your children. In many cases, children will sleep through them. If this happens, talk to a local alarm company about getting a system with a louder bell. If you have children, make sure you have fire drills, teach them what to do.

If you have a fire extinguisher and make the decision to fight the fire, always make sure that someone has dialed 911 and leave yourself an escape route.

One of the most important things to do is to have a meeting place to gather to make sure everyone got out. I have seen a father die going back into a house to rescue a daughter who was standing outside on the opposite side of the house. The meeting place can be as simple as the light pole across the street.

A few minutes thought and training can be the difference between life and death for you or one of your family members.

SERVPRO of Redondo/Manhattan Beach cares about our community and love's being prepared. Helping other's to consider preparation is what we love to do, whether its helping families get there home back to livable conditions, or helping with fires safety tips, SERVPRO is here to HELP!

Fire Safety tips for High-Rise Apartment Building

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

Fire safety in high rise apartment building

If you live in an apartment building, especially beyond the first floor, you should be prepared and have a plan in place in case of a fire.

About 62 percent of fires responded to by firefighters between 2009-2013 were in apartment buildings, resulting in many fatalities, injuries and millions in property damage.

Here are some important things to know for fire safety in a high-rise residential apartment building:

  • Be familiar with your floor’s evacuation plan. A diagram should be posted where you can see it.
  • Be aware of the location so the fire exits in your hall, especially those near your unit.
  • Always have a set of house keys and a flashlight in your nightstand.
  • Always be sure your smoke alarms are working.

Thanksgiving is peak day for home cooking fires!

11/11/2016 (Permalink)

Did you know that $15,000,000.00 worth of property damage is cause by deep frying related fires every year?

Here are some important safety tips for those who want a crispy turkey on the table this Thanksgiving.

 

  1. Turkey Preparation – We all know that water and oil don’t mix right? Water will immediately cause the oil to splash or bubble out of the fryer which can rapidly develop into a dangerous fire. Your turkey should be thoroughly thawed and patted dry prior to being placed in the fryer. You should make sure that any marinades used are deep fry approved as well.
  2. Location - Deep fryers should be used on a flat surface at least 10 feet from away from the home. Keep away anything flammable. Make sure children and animals stay indoors or at a safe distance and never leave the frying turkey unattended. Its extremely dangerous to deep fry inside the home, on a covered patio, balcony or wood deck. Even an open garage should be off limits.
  3. Protective Gear – Cover up with long sleeves, oven mitts, an apron and safety goggles to protect your eyes.
  4. Monitoring – If the temperature of the fryer is not controlled, it may overheat and cause an explosion. Use a thermometer and follow directions and recipes as closely as possible. Remember that the handles on the fryer and its lid will be very hot and will burn if touched. Always be cautious and use well insulated oven mitts. Also, keep in mind that the fryer will be hot for hours after the turkey is done, allow time to cool off before disposing of the oil.
  5. Be Ready - A multipurpose fire extinguisher should be nearby and we don’t mean in the house... You will need to be able to quickly and calmly put out any fire that might occur. Have a phone close in case you need to call 911.

Following these tips 5 tips will help get dinner on the table without incident.

Thank you for trusting SERVPRO of Redondo Beach/Manhattan Beach.

Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving from our families, to yours...

How to decorate your home safely this holiday season

11/9/2016 (Permalink)

May your Holidays be Merry & Bright

We all love to drive around the neighborhood to admire the brightly lit homes around the holidays. Here are some tips that will keep your home safe while participating in the festivities.

1. Make sure cords and connections are not on the floor to avoid accidents.

2. Keep anything electrical such as light strands, away from the rain gutters.

3. Avoid using metal or tacks to secure outdoor lights, opt for tape when possible.

4. Be careful with ladders, they should not be anywhere near overhead power lines. Try to have someone available to hold the ladder steady.

5. Its best to have inflatable decorations plugged into circuit protectors to avoid shock.

 6. Always turn off all lights and blow out all candles before leaving home or going to bed.

7. Last but definitely not least, lets protect our pocket books by turning on lights after 7pm!

Happy Holidays from SERVPRO of Redondo Beach/Manhattan Beach!