Fire Evacuation Routes

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

Have Water or Flood Damage? Call Us Today – (956) 585-3433

DID YOU KNOW? According to the CDC, nearly ten people die in a fire daily. An additional 46 people are injured each day, and the total cost of these injuries is believed to be an estimated $7.5 billion annually. A fire-specific emergency action plan is one of the simplest ways to save lives if a fire breaks out in your facility.

Where are some physical requirements for fire prevention?

• Number of exits: OSHA states that a typical workplace must have a minimum of 2 exits. Every community-based organization is different in its size and design and therefore could be different needs, but overall, it will most likely need 2 viable exits
• An exit route: this route must be a permanent part of the workplace. Each exit must lead directly outside and be big enough to accommodate the building's occupants. It’s important that all exits are unlocked from the inside at all times. (NOTE: Doors should swing out in the direction of the exit)
• Provide proper lighting for exits
• Post signs along the exit routes provide proper directions of travel. Ask yourself, “Would a lost and scared child be able to find an exit?” “Would a visit with bad eyesight be able to find the exit?”

Once everyone is safe and out of the building call 911 from the safe spot and once cleared by the fire department you may go back into the building. After the commotion, you may now call the ones to help with the rest of the damage. SERVPRO. SERVPRO will help with your insurance claim, clean-up, and restoration process. The whole works!

Avoiding Fire Hazards in the Kitchen with SERVPRO of East Mission & South Edinburg

7/8/2022 (Permalink)

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – (956) 585-3433

Staying in the kitchen while cooking is not the only fire safety precaution you should observe.

Take a look at these other helpful tips to observe while cooking:

• What type of clothing are you wearing?

 Does your outfit have long, flowing sleeves or is it big and baggy? It could catch on fire if you aren’t careful while cooking over the stove. It’s best to wear short or close-fitted sleeve shirts and make sure any baggy shirts are tucked in or tied back.

• What type of items are you placing around or on the stovetop?

Make sure you don’t have kitchen towels, oven mitts, appliance cords or even curtains too close to the stovetop when cooking. Ideally, anything flammable will be moved away from it.

• Do you have a fire extinguisher in/near the kitchen?

Hopefully, you have at least one fire extinguisher located in your home, ideally one that is near your kitchen. Make sure you know how to properly use the extinguisher, just in case it is ever needed.

• How are you disposing of hot grease?

While the grease may not be on fire, it could be hot enough to cause something in the trash to burn. You should let the grease cool a bit and then dispose of it in an old coffee can. Also, know the smoke points of the oils you cook with. Be sure to never subject a low-smoke point oil to high heat when cooking, as it could catch fire.

• Do you have a fire escape plan established?

Thinking about the worst-case scenario is never fun, but it’s better to be prepared than unprepared if an emergency were to occur. Go over exit routes and designated meeting points with your family, making sure that everyone knows what to do.

Fire safety in the kitchen is an absolute necessity, as it can help prevent dangerous and destructive cooking fires. If your home has experienced damage from a cooking fire, know that SERVPRO® of East Mission & South Edinburg is here to make it, “Like it never even happened.”

Common Causes of Commercial Structure Fires

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

We offer 24/7 emergency services to be able to provide a quick and thorough service, even after a fire!

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the leading causes of structure fires in office properties from 2007–2011 were (in order):

• Cooking equipment, 29% of fires
• Electrical distribution and lighting equipment, 12% of fires
• Heating equipment, 11% of fires
• Intentional, 10% of fires
• Smoking materials, 9% of fires
• Exposure, 4% of fires
• Electronic, office, or entertainment equipment, 3% of fires

Out of those, three causes, namely intentional, exposure, and electrical distribution and lighting equipment accounted for the most property damage with 20%, 18%, and 15% respectively.

Also, the Bureau of Labor Statistics found that fires and explosions accounted for 3% of all workplace fatalities in 2007.

When studying more recent numbers, the NFPA estimates that between 2007–2011, U.S. fire departments answered an average of 3,340 fire calls in office properties per year. Those fires resulted in an annual average of four deaths, 44 injuries, and $112 million in direct property damage.

SERVPRO of East Mission / South Edinburg has the water and fire damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. For more information on our available services give us a call at 956-585-3433 24/7.

Easy Steps for Fire Prevention | SERVPRO® of East Mission & South Edinburg

7/4/2022 (Permalink)

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – (956) 585-3433

There have been more than 20,000 house fires that the American Red Cross has responded to this year, and that is only a portion of the total number of fires that have occurred in the United States.

Smoke detectors will always be the best way to prevent damage and the loss of life, but there are a few other things you can do that can provide protection to your home and your loved ones, even some that are as simple as cleaning up.

Clear the Clutter
Clutter is likely something we all fight on a regular basis already, but it can actually create a fire hazard. Allowing hallways, stairways, and utility spaces to fill with unused items can not only block emergency exits but also provide fuel to the fire.

Leaving loose clothing near a water heater can actually start a fire. Keeping your space clear means quick access to escape routes in the event of an emergency and can also slow down the progression of flames.

Another common source of fire in the home is overloaded extension cords. Remove any unused electronics and unplug appliances that you don’t use on a regular basis.

Take a look around your home and ensure that there is space between your walls and furniture. This allows for proper airflow to prevent overheating.

Create a Defensible Space in Your Yard
The area around your home is key in providing protection from fires that originate outside. Using strategically placed landscaping protects your home and gives room for firefighters to work in the event of an emergency.

Some states like California have imposed defensible zone regulations because this is such an effective way to slow the spread of a wildfire. With our dry climate that creates such a potential for grass fires, this type of landscaping is smart for us, too. In January, we saw five acres burn after a grass fire started, and the windy and dry conditions spring brought kept us on a constant watch for fire.

Intentional landscaping doesn’t mean you can’t plant the annuals you want; instead, it means using intentional placements of your plants and trees to provide the best protection. You should always keep your yard clear of dead plants, leaves, and limbs as these can strengthen a fire.

Take precautions with broken sprinkler heads

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

After a fire broke out in this home the sprinkler heads were faulty and DID NOT go off leading SERVPRO to the rescue !

A sprinkler line will continue to flow until the water is shut off. A typical sprinkler installation is capable of discharging between 20-40 gallons of water every minute. That’s enough water to cover more than 40 square feet of the gym floor in less than five minutes. The water will eventually seep into floorboards, causing the wood to expand. If water is left to sit long enough, the floorboards could buckle and any hopes of salvaging the hardwood are gone.

In an ideal world, every broken sprinkler head would be accidental. But we do also have accidents caused by kid’s even pets. Hanging lights, ceiling fans, wall clocks, and sprinkler heads are attractive targets for a group of under-stimulated and under-supervised kids. A random walkthrough of the facility at peak hours is a simple and effective supervision technique. Encourage members to notify staff if they witness raucous behavior and develop internal procedures to handle members who fail to follow rules.

Minimizing Damage from Broken Sprinkler Heads

If a water pipe bursts or a sprinkler head opens unexpectedly, you can save your facility thousands of dollars simply by knowing how to quickly locate and operate the water control systems. The first step is knowing where to find the controls.

The next step involves working with the contractor who services your suppression system. Have them explain your role in the event of an accidental discharge.

As a final note, initiate the evacuation plan immediately if the system engages because of a fire.

Common Types of Fire Sprinklers 101

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

BEFORE & AFTER SERVPRO helped this home with the clean-up and restoration process, "Like it never even happened."

DID YOU KNOW!? According to the National Fire Protection Association, there’s a new structure fire every 63 seconds! Research by the NFPA concluded that sprinklers were effective at controlling fire in 96 percent of fires in which they operated.

The way that we see it is that it’s important to work with your fire protection contractor to fully understand how your system works and how to keep it properly maintained. Building owners often incorrectly think the fire sprinkler contractor will manage their system for them.

Without understanding your building’s sprinkler system, your building could be at risk of a large fire loss, and with that being said let’s talk about the Common Types of Fire Sprinkler Systems:

Wet Pipe Systems – Wet pipe sprinkler systems are the most common. When heat activates a sprinkler head, pressurized water stored in the pipes is released. Each sprinkler head is activated individually, which can help reduce water damage in the event of a false alarm.

Dry Pipe Systems – Dry pipe sprinkler systems don’t store water in their pipes. Instead, the pipes are filled with pressurized air. When a sprinkler head is activated, the gas is released and the pipes fill with water and discharge. This type of system is typically more complex and used in buildings or sections of buildings that are susceptible to cold temperatures.

Pipe Schedule Systems – In this type of system, the designer must know the hazard classification of the building or contents to be protected, the amount and duration of the water supply, and the specific placement of the sprinklers. This type of design gave way to hydraulically designed systems around the mid-1970s, but many buildings still have systems that were designed using a schedule. According to NFPA 13, pipe schedule systems cannot protect extra hazard occupancies.  

Hydraulic Systems – Now that NFPA 13 prohibits the pipe schedule method, except in very limited instances, most systems are designed using hydraulic calculations. This type of system uses mathematical analysis of the water carrying capacity of the pipe network to ensure that enough water is put on the fire to suppress it. It’s designed to match the potential fire hazard to the pressure and volume of the available water supply. 

After a fire you may feel confused, stressed, and more than a little vulnerable. Our technicians will treat your family with empathy and your home with great care. We will stand by your side through the claim, clean-up, and restoration process. All you would have is a home/business left “Like it never even happened.”

Fire BE Gone!

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

Call 956-585-3433 for more information on our restoration process available. OPEN 24/7!!

There’re many precautions you can take to prevent fires in your home and feel safe. The reality is even if we take 1000 precautions accidents happen on a daily basis. Sometimes theses accidents can even be a result of mother nature. Lightning strikes shouldn’t be taken lightly, when the National Weather Service reports that lightning starts about 4,400 house fires each year.

There are 2 main sources we have found to help local residents be prepared in the event of a fire outburst:

1. Smoke Alarms- We all remember the usual routine fire drills we would have in school hopping it would be during our p.E time to get out of doing exercise! How many fire drills do you remember having in your home? Or in your work scenario? Not many or none at all huh.. Let’s change that. Setting up a smoke detector can cut nearly HALF of the risks of fires. Remember to use the MUTE setting when cooking or baking instead of turning it off. Test your smoke detector once a month. Note: Make sure they are wired together, so that if one sounds, they all sound.
2. Fire extinguishers- consider having 1-2 of these around the home. An extinguisher rated “A-B-C” is recommended for home use. Many are designed also just for a one time (take this into mind in the event you happen to use it). Note: if you the fire is not being put out by the extinguisher, drop the extinguisher and get out. There’s no need to play hero when it comes to a fire, go to your designated safe zone and call 911 for further instructions and don’t go back in the home.

If in the event if a fire, your home suffers from internal damages or your textiles do call us! Count on us to be there for you in the restoration process 100% of the way, and provide you back a home, “Like it never even happened.”

Avoid a Fire in Your Kitchen

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employee deep cleaning of the kitchen interior after a fire.

An estimated 358,500 home fires occur every year. 50% of these fires start in the kitchen! In a five-year period, house fires caused $6.9 billion in property damage (NFPA). The main top three causes of fires in homes are cooking, heating equipment, and electrical malfunction (FEMA). It can take just 30 seconds for a small flame to turn into a major blaze (Department of Homeland Security). An average of 358,500 homes experiences a structural fire each year (NFPA). Every day, at least one child dies from a fire inside the home (Stanford Children’s Hospital). Its crazy to think all this is coming from a house fire, but nothing is impossible.

Let’s observe these following safety tips:

• Heaters- be sure to keep these heaters at least 3 feet away from any flammable objects, such as blankets or curtains.
• Space heaters- should be kept on tile or ceramic flooring — away from carpets or rugs. (Consider purchasing a space heater that automatically shuts off in the event it’s tipped over.)
• Be sure to extinguish the embers in a fireplace or the flame of a candle
• Install a fire alarm in every room and every floor of your home. Install a carbon monoxide detector on every floor of your home. Test all devices yearly and replace batteries as needed.
• If the unthinkable happens and you do find yourself in a house fire, remember:
  • “Stop, drop, and roll” if your clothing is on fire.
  • Crawl low to the floor and keep your airways covered.
  • Touch door handles to test if they’re hot before opening the door.
  • To open and use a fire extinguisher, use the following acronym: PASS
  • Pull the pin
  • Aim low at the base of the fire
  • Squeeze the handle slowly
  • Sweep the nozzle side to side

After Fire Mode: Activated

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Here's a close look at our storage after all clothes have been washed, dried and iron. We store everything accordingly to the home it came from.

One of the most interesting thigs I found within the SERVPRO franchise was the textiles department.

Let’s break it down!
SERVPRO works 1x1 with your insurance to help give you the most and best restoration that you’re entitled to. We go into depths of cleaning out the house/business after the fire and sanitizing your home.

Need repairs? We got you covered.

“But what about my smoke penetrated clothes or sofas!?” WE GOT YOU COVERED!!

I cannot stress how thorough our workers go into making your textiles look like they never even underwent a fire! Crazy, right?

Let’s break it down even more (this is the fun part)

After we clean out your home/business we have our professionals what is salvageable from the items we brought back. (These textiles i.e., could be your tv, clothes, shoes, appliances, couches, refrigerator… etc.) whatever is determines is unsalvageable (example a hole in your shirt) we place these items separately for your insurance can reimburse you for the items.

We label everything making sure we know whose home it came from and what room it should go back in when we take everything cleaned and restored. From polishing your work boots, to hipping down the play kitchen set your kids had in their room. We go into so much details we make sure to go through every wash tag on the clothes and if any is non washer safe, we go ahead and send them to a cleaner. We iron and bag every single item.

Once the job is done

• all furniture has been polished
• clothes washed, dried and ironed
• shoes cleaned whipped down (buffed if needed)
• dry cleaners have been picked up (if applicable)
• dishes, appliances, equipment removed from the home cleaned polished and disinfected.

We follow the labels with the name of the customer head to the home and start putting everything back the way it was BEFORE the fire. Count on walking back in to your home and getting a sense of “Like it never even happened.”

Note: check with your insurance company to assure if your belongings are covered in the event of a fire besides your home, and add it to your plan. If you find yourself in such scenario, you won’t regret having this add on.

Fire Safety for Kids!

7/5/2021 (Permalink)

Call us today, (956) 585-3433, for your FREE quote! 

Although the thought of our children going back to school might be lingering in the air, that may not be quite the scenario just yet. With summer school ending in most school, at this point in the summer, we all have our homes busy with the little pitter patters of our little ones. Take a moment during this down time you have and go over some safety tips with them! Give yourself the peace of mind knowing they know what steps, and directions, to follow in the event of a FIRE!

First things first, you want to have an escape plan ready. Its important to provide and easy escape route for children, for they sometimes need help in getting out of the house. They may not know what to do, or how to, unless an adult shows them so.

• Have a plan ready for children who cannot go outside by themselves. In this scenario, if you have younger children or babies who can’t exit without the actual help of someone, talk to one another to know who will help each child to safety.
• Its important to have 2 ways out of each room in your home, in the event one exit is blocked or not safe to exit from.
• Have a meeting place outside your home. Kids should know what to do when they hear a smoke alarm and they are alone. Help them practice going to the meeting place, and discuss the importance of never going back inside a building, that is on fire.

We don’t want to think of our children being put through such scenario, but unfortunately the possibilities aren’t zero. For the safety of our kids, (peace of mind to us, the parents) its always better to be extra prepared!!

In the event your home suffers from any fire damage, call SERVPRO (insert franchise) .At SERVPRO, we understand family means everything. When you’re a family-owned franchise you want to be able to provide this feeling of safety and peace of mind. We are here to help you! To help restore your home, and RESTORE you that feeling of safety back! When we provide 24/7/365 service, it isn’t hard to do either!! 

Holiday Fire Facts

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

The holidays are one of the most wonderful times of the year! Are we right?! There is nothing better than putting up those Holiday lights and having the home feel warm and cozy. Not to be forgotten the rides at night to see all the homes dressed up with holiday lights! No matter what type of decorations we hang up during the holidays, we’re surrounded by electricity! If we aren’t careful, it can be a huge hazard if not used or maintained properly. According to the National Fire Protection Association (www.nfpa.org), Holiday fires caused an average of three deaths, 15 injuries, and $10 million in direct property damage annually. On average, one of every 52 reported home fires that began with a Christmas tree resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 135 total reported home fires. SERVPRO of East Mission/South Edinburg wants to help keep you safe during this Holiday season, with the help of the NPFA, we’ve pulled together some safety tips for you to keep in mind! Electrical Fire Safety Tips

• Make sure that there are smoke detectors installed on every floor of the building, inside each room and right outside of every sleeping area to ensure that the alarms can be heard even when sleeping.
• Test smoke detectors monthly to make sure that they’re working properly and have working batteries.
• Have your electrical system inspected by a certified professional to make sure that all of the electrical work meets the National Electric Code safety standards.
• Look and listen for signs of electrical problems such as, flickering or dim lights, buzzing or sizzling sounds from electrical outlets, or insulation and circuit breakers that trip repeatedly. If any of these or any other electrical problems are found, contact a professional as soon as possible for the issue to be inspected.
• Avoid overloading outlets with too many electronics. Consider having more outlets or circuits installed by a professional.
• In homes with children, install tamper-resistant devices to keep children from getting electrical shocks or burns.
• Create an evacuation plan that can be used in the event of a fire.

Our team understands that there is nothing worse than being out of the home for the holidays. We know this time of year is filled with traditions and creating memories. Make sure to follow all the tips we’ve complied together but also if an emergency occurs inside your home or business, know that SERVPRO of East Mission/South Edinburg is ready to help you get back to your holiday traditions!

An Overview of Our Fire Restoration Process

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

We can make Fire damage "Like it never even happened."

When a fire ignites in a home or business, SERVPRO is prepared to help make the fire “Like it never even happened,” by employing our 7-step fire restoration process. We’ve seen firsthand the effects that fires can have on properties as well as the lives of the people who live or work in them. It is of the utmost importance to us that we help our customers pick up the pieces and return to business as usual as soon as possible. Fires can be accompanied by distress and chaos, but by calling SERVPRO and trusting our thorough, 7-step method for restoring fire damage, you can relax. To learn more about each step of our fire restoration process, keep reading. It begins with your phone call.

1. Emergency Contact

All it takes is one phone call to begin fire damage restoration services for your home or business. Make SERVPRO your first call after the fire has been extinguished so that we can design a plan of action tailored to your property’s specific needs. With this information in mind, we will make sure that we arrive on the site quickly, outfitted with the resources and equipment suitable for your home or business.

1. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Upon arrival, our experienced fire damage team will examine your property in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the scope of the damage. When our team of fire damage experts arrives on the scene, they will survey the extent of the property’s fire damage. Depending on the scope of the fire, smoke, and soot loss, we will craft the most effective restoration plan for your home or business.

1. Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Services

As a result of a fire, roofs, windows, and doors can undergo damage, which can compromise other areas of the property, leaving them susceptible to additional damage. Therefore, our team will place boards and tarps overexposed areas in order to further protect your home or business.

1. Water Removal and Drying

Water damage can be the product of the process of extinguishing the fire with water. If your property has experienced this type of water damage, our team will make sure to thoroughly remove all of the water present. First, we will tackle standing water. Then, we will use dehumidifiers and air movers to get rid of the remaining water. Both of these actions will guarantee that your home or business will be thoroughly dried.

1. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

After a fire, there is often smoke and soot residue present on various surfaces, such as ceilings and walls. This step in our fire restoration process involves removing all traces of smoke and soot, which we accomplish with our specialized equipment.

1. Cleaning and Sanitizing

Following the removal of smoke and soot, our focus is cleaning and sanitizing objects that have survived the fire. For every item that we can salvage, we will use our wide array of cleaning techniques to clean, sanitize, and disinfect them. We will also utilize our fogging equipment and industrial scrubbers to get rid of odors. Above all, we aim to provide your home or business with an exceptional clean.

1. Restoration

The culminating step in our fire restoration process is completing any repair work necessary to restore your home or business to its condition before the fire. This work can range from minor repairs to major repairs. Minor repairs often entail anything from installing new carpet to replacing drywall or giving a room a fresh coat of paint. As for major repairs, we may rebuild or restore particular rooms or areas of the home or business that have been significantly damaged. In the end, we will have your property looking as good as new.

In Need of Fire Damage Restoration? We’re Only a Call Away

After a devastating fire, you need a team that you can trust to quickly and efficiently restore your home or business for a speedy return to normalcy. Remember that SERVPRO is ready to help and only one, quick call away. A fire can be stressful, regardless of whether it occurs in your home or your business. Our 7-step fire restoration process will ensure that every aspect of restoring your property is followed through completely. If your home or business has experienced a fire, be sure to call SERVPRO of East Mission/South Edinburg today at (956) 585-3499.

How We Restore Fire Damaged Belongings

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Before and After Fire Restoration Services

When mother nature strikes on your home, ensuring the safety of your personal belongings is always a priority in the remediation process after the damage has been done. Here is some basic knowledge on what items and areas can be saved in a fire.

Doorways and windows

When the remediation process begins, these areas are typically the most simple to restore because all that is needed is a dry sponge and some patented SERVPRO cleaning detergent to remove any soot or stains that may have been made.

House hold items such as tables or silverware

This is very similar to the previous section in that these items are easy to restore. With needing SERVPRO cleaning detergent and a dry cloth to wipe off any soot

The Different Types Of Smoke

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of East Mission and South Edinburg will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises, therefore, smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored to the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.  Give us a call at (956) 585-3433!

Tips To Remember When Using a Fire Extinguisher

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

As a homeowner in Mission, TX, you need to be prepared for emergencies. If you've ever had a house fire and had to call in professionals to restore your home, you understand the importance of having a fire extinguisher on hand. Following the steps below can ensure that you're using it correctly.

1. Assess the Situation

First, understand what you're dealing with. If the blaze is already too big, the best idea may be to call the fire department and get yourself and anyone else in the house to safety. If you can safely douse it with a fire extinguisher, you need to next make sure that you have right type for whatever material is burning.

2. Use the Right Extinguisher for the Fire

Experts classify extinguishers based on the type of fire they can combat. These include:

• Type A: for fires involving plastics, wood, textiles and paper
• Type B: used on fires involving solvents, gasoline, oils, paints and other flammable liquids
• Type C: for electrical fires, including plugged-in equipment like computers or appliances
• Type D: for fires involving combustible powders or metals
• Type E: commonly used for a kitchen fire involving fats or cooking oils

These letter classifications are always found on the sides of the extinguishers, many of which are rated for putting out fires of more than one type.

3. Remember: "PASS"

The PASS method is an easy way to remember how to use most fire extinguishers. Each letter in "PASS" stands for the first word of an operational step. The "P" tells you to pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher; it needs to be removed before operation. The "A" tells you to aim the nozzle. The nozzle should not be aimed at the top of the flames, but at the bottom, where the combustion is taking place. The first "S" tells you to squeeze the handle to start the flow, and the second one reminds you to sweep from side to side while spraying.

By acting quickly and following the instructions above, you can safely prevent fire damage before it has a chance.

Fire Restoration Process From Start To Finish

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Each fire is different and every home requires its own specific approach, but the following is the general process we follow in a typical fire damage restoration situation:

Emergency response. When you make your call to us, the restoration process begins. Our customer service representative will ask the right questions so that we can respond quickly and bring along the right resources and equipment.

Inspection and assessment. We inspect the impacted area and adjoining rooms to find out the extent of the soot, smoke and other fire damage, then we can develop our plan of action.

Securing the structure. Preventing further damage is essential, so we take immediate action to board up broken windows, shore up damaged walls and put tarps over damaged sections of the roof.

Water removal. When water damage is present, we immediately start water removal. Dehumidifiers and air movers are used to get all the water from your home and complete the drying process.

Surface soot and smoke removal. Using special equipment and time-tested techniques, we get rid of soot and smoke from the ceiling, all walls and other hard surfaces.

Cleaning and disinfecting. Restorable items require cleaning and sanitizing. A variety of cleaning products and techniques are used to accomplish this as appropriate. This process includes odor removal using foggers and industrial-strength air scrubbers.

Restoration. Getting things back to normal is the final step in the process. This can involve small repairs, drywall replacement, new carpet installation, painting and more. Major construction may sometimes also be required

SERVPRO of East Mission and South Edinburg is always open to help with your fire damage. If need more information, call us today at (956) 585- 3433. 

Fire Recovery

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

Recovering from a fire can be a physically and mentally draining process.  When fire strikes, lives are suddenly turned around.  Often, the hardest part is knowing where to begin and who to contact.  You will need a professional company to help you navigate through the process. 

Our crews at SERVPRO of East Mission/ South Edinburg are those professionals.

Our trained technicians will walk you through exactly what we can do for you.  From securing your property, to the cleaning of the structure and your belongings.  Inventory will take place on-site.  Once the inventory is complete, we will pack your items and transport them back to our facility.  These items will be cleaned, packed and stored at our warehouse until your home is repaired. 

Smoke and Soot Facts

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of East Mission/ South Edinburg will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today –(956)585-3499

Fire Damage In Your Residence Can Necessitate Soot Cleanup Services

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

After a fire, homeowners commonly find soot on ceilings, walls, and other objects or materials in their homes. Most wall surfaces, including painted drywall, brick, or wallpaper, are porous. Soot consists of fine particles that can penetrate deeply into porous surfaces, causing lingering odors and stains.

Most of the time, it's possible to remove soot from ceilings and walls, but in serious cases, it may be necessary to remove, repaint or reinstall affected materials like wallpaper and drywall. To get the best outcome from soot clean up after fire damage in your residence, you should hire a professional restoration firm like SERVPRO. Our fire restoration experts are equipped to handle the smoke, ash, and soot cleanup process quickly and effectively. We begin soot cleanup by removing most of the dry soot using a duster, H.E.P.A vacuum or dry cleaning sponge.

When cleaning some surfaces like wallpaper, the appropriate method to use is dry cleaning. Other surfaces can respond well and tolerate wet cleaning procedures. Using a chemical-dry sponge or a dry-cleaning sponge is appropriate when a high oxygen fire has caused soot to build up in a particular area. The soot can smear and leave an unsightly stain if one attempts to use a wet cleaning method. Before we perform any wet cleaning procedures, we test the cleaning solution on an inconspicuous, small area like behind a switch plate to see if it causes any staining.

Soot can cause further damage in your home if it is ground and smudged into paint, plaster, wallpaper, walls, upholstery, and carpets. The odor that soot can cause is difficult to eradicate with typical cleaning methods and household products. Normal household vacuums are inefficient in removing soot and ash for they redeposit the particles around a house which can contaminate previously unaffected rooms and areas. Our SERVPRO technicians can use HEPA vacuums to remove soot from the affected areas, including sockets and light switches. If you do not clean these fixtures before use, short-circuiting can occur. HEPA vacuums trap the particles, preventing them from redepositing.

For help in removing soot from your home, contact SERVPRO of East Mission/ South Edinburg at (956)585-3499. We have the tools and expertise to deal with the aftermath of a fire and restore your property to its pre-fire damage condition.

Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

This is the aftermath of a home who suffered a severe Fire loss.

Our team has responded so far to 3 fire losses this week. The cause of loss in this East Mission home is unknown. This before picture shows the disaster left behind after the fire was put down from the fire department. SERVPRO of East Mission/ South Edinburg was called in to clean up the aftermath! This picture was taken on day one of the project. our technician supervisor performed a Fire scope in this home, and day two, our team of professionals will be ready to restore this home back to Pre-loss fire conditions, and make it "Like it never even happened." The first step of this project is to clean up all the debris, and start the reconstruction process. If you would like to see the end results of this project, Please stay tuned on our blogs! If disaster ever strikes your home. Just know that SERVPRO is here to guide you through this crisis, and treat your home with great care 

9 Smoke Odor Removal Musts!

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

We understand the devastation Fire Damage can bring to you and your family, We are here to help.

One of the most critical concerns for fire restoration is failing to control or eradicate odors, But luckily not for us here at SERVPRO of East Mission/South Edinburg. Remediating a fire loss may take long, meaning you might have to wait a while for your home to be back to its Pre-loss conditions. We will work non stop to make sure you are back into your home in just a manner of a few weeks instead of having to wait long months.

Here are some things to remember:

• Make sure there’s a straightforward exchange of information between you, the customer, the insurance adjuster and any possible subcontractors. Communicating clearly and setting expectations is a critical component of the job.
• Get a written agreement from the homeowner on exactly what areas have been damaged by the fire and what items should be salvaged or discarded. You don’t want them coming back to you later claiming you’ve trashed an heirloom or didn’t finish the job.
• The way that fire and water damage jobs are handled do have some similarities, but they can’t be interchanged. Confirm that only techs with at least a Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT) certification are allowed to work on the site. Being Odor Control Technician (OCT) certified is also helpful.
• Smoke and fire residues can be poisonous, as fires can include the demolition of plastic, foam, fabric, carpet, wood products, synthetic textiles, and asbestos-containing materials. Ash and smoke can also cause widespread corrosion, etching and staining, as well as persistent powerful odors. So removing these and their sources should be your first priority.
• If the damage is localized, contain those areas to assist in removing odors.
• Carefully inspect all areas that may have numerous layers of wall board. These may hide unexpected gaps and voids that turn into superhighways for circulating smoke and odor.
• Examine all wall cavities, duct work, and plumbing chases to establish whether they suffered any smoke residue or fire damage.
• Use a borescope to discover any damage that may otherwise have been impossible to see without having to completely remove a part of the structure. If the fire is recent, use of a thermal imaging camera may reveal hidden warmer areas, indicating possible fire damage.
• Aside from losing their valuables, the majority of homeowners are underinsured. They may even have to take up temporary lodging. So you’re going to be dealing with some very distraught people. Train yourself and your employees on how to be empathetic and ways to successfully communicate with them.

When eliminating odors on fire jobs, remember that there are several factors that can impact the strength of the odor:

• Size - The bigger the fire, the more objects have burned, and thus there’s been more smoke.
• Length -The longer a structure has been exposed to smoke, the more deeply odor has seeped into porous materials.
• Space - When a fire occurs in a smaller room, the smoke odor becomes more intense and concentrated.
• Stuff - Not all odors are equal. For instance, burning wood, plastic and protein all have very different smells and consistency. This may influence the types of odor eliminators you use.

WHERE the damage occurred and WHAT burned will always be your two main concerns in fire restoration. Knowing the full answers to those questions will likely ensure that your restoration efforts will be complete and that you’ll be able to eliminate all of those irritating odors, while at the same time eliminating any call backs.

Fire restoration jobs can be profitable but also tricky unless handled properly. Prepare well, otherwise you’re the one who may get burned.  

One Of The Most Important Elements Of Fire Restoration Is Smoke Odor Elimination

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Of East Mission/South Edinburg specializes in fire clean-up and restoration.

In order for the smell of smoke to be eliminated during the fire restoration process, its important that appropriate and immediate action is taken. Clothing, Upholstered furniture, draperies, and carpets can be refurnished as well. It is essential to get professional help from an experienced fire restoration company.

The odor of smoke can remain in clothing, Upholstered furniture, draperies, and carpets if they are not properly deodorized. A fire restoration professional uses special deodorizing procedures that actually break up the smoke molecules to eliminate the smell.

Smoke enters, and can remain in and between the walls of living spaces as well. If it is not correctly removed, the odor of smoke will recur from time to time, especially during damp periods. This is one more reason why prompt action must be taken to have smoke odor removed professionally.

If an attic was insulated before the fire, it might be necessary to completely remove the insulation. Unfortunately, insulation can't be cleaned and can still retain smoke odor,  so it will have to be replaced. Depending on the amount of smoke damage, the wall's, and ceiling's may need to be cleaned, and repainted.

If you are in need of fire restoration services, Call SERVPRO today!

What NOT To Do If You Experience Fire Damage.

1/14/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to keep you safe after your home experiences fire damage.

As many provide great advice about what to do after experiencing fire damage, Not all provide you with some advice of what NOT to do after fire has affected your home, But luckily, SERVPRO would like to point out some things that you shouldn't do if you are dealing with fire damage.

1. Do Not try and keep any food items, such as canned goods, which were most likely inside the house during the fire. High heat can render them dangerous to consume. They should be thrown out and in some cases, you can itemize the cost to replace them as part of your insurance claim.

2. Do Not deal with fire ash and residue on your own. If you handle this the wrong way, you could damage wall's, ceilings, and other surfaces.

3. If there was heavy smoke, do not try to reuse carpeting or upholstered furniture. They will need to be replaced so as not to cause respiratory problems.

4. Do Not turn on any electrical appliances, including computers, which were in a smoke-filled room before they have been checked out and professionally cleaned. There may be ash and debris inside the components and if you turn them on, you risk damaging them.

5. Do Not enter the home until you have been advised that it is safe to do so. If you aren't given that clearance due to structural integrity concerns, don't go in! At SERVPRO Of East Mission/South Edinburg, your life is worth more than any of your belongings that you are hoping to salvage. Let us handle that for you and get your home restored without putting you in danger