Does Your Home Smell Like a Bonfire?

2/20/2024 (Permalink)

Smoke smell can linger - call SERVPRO to get your home smelling like home again!

Smoke odor can be extremely persistent and it may feel daunting to try and rid it yourself, luckily for you we have done this a time or two! Smoke particles can drift everywhere from air ducts, carpeting, drapery, and furniture. The only way to completely eliminate the smoke smell is to permanently neutralize the presence of these particles. Here are a few methods for smoke damage restoration:

• Ozone Machines

Ozone machines release molecules that follow the same path as smoke particles and oxidize these sources of odor. The ozone method is very popular because it works quickly. However, with this method all people, pets, and plants must be temporarily evacuated.

• Hydroxyl Generators

Hydroxyl generators are used to destroy smoke particles with radicals generated by ultraviolet light. This method will not require evacuation, but can take three to five times longer than an ozone machine.

• HVAC Air Scrubbers

HVAC air scrubbers connect to the central air system on a home or building to circulate the air and filter out smoke particles. Because this method does not neutralize the particles, a faint smoke odor may linger. HVAC air scrubbers are often used with other smoke removal methods.

• Thermal Scrubbers

Thermal foggers fill a home with fog for about 30 minutes and then the home or building is ventilated to dry. The space must be evacuated for this process, but it is a very effective method.

• Vapor Modification

Vapor modification neutralizes odors by dispersing an aromatic compound in a mineral oil base with assistance of a blower fan. Evacuation is not necessary for this method.

5 Ways to Avoid a Dryer Fire

1/16/2023 (Permalink)

Avoid a dryer fire by following these tips

Nearly every home today has a clothes dryer. If you have used a dryer, it is likely that you know the number one rule - clean the dryer lint out of the lint trap after every use! While that is a very important tip to stay safe from dryer fires, here are five more that might just save your dryer from a fire:

• Use a Professional to Install Your Dryer

After spending a large amount of money on a dryer, it may be tempting to try and DIY your dryer installation. However, this can be very dangerous. A certified electrician will know how to safely install the dryer according to the manufacturer’s requirements.

• Do Not Leave Your Dryer Running Unattended

Another common, but dangerous, practice is leaving your dryer running while you are not home or sleeping. Dryer fires can happen at any moment. If a fire does occur, it will be far less damaging if you catch it before it spreads throughout the house. Never leave a dryer running while you are away or sleeping.

• Do Not Overload Your Dryer

Not only does overloading your dryer slow down the dry time, but it can also limit the air circulation in the dryer and puts stress on the machine. When the dryer is working harder, there is more friction which can lead to a dryer fire.

• Keep Your Laundry Room Clean

Make sure that you are routinely cleaning your laundry area. Check behind the washer and dryer for any sock, clothes, lint, or dryer sheets. Allowing your laundry room to fill with clutter increases your chance for fire.

• Clean the Dryer Exhaust Vent and Hose

Routinely clean your dryer’s exhaust vent and hose. Lint can accumulate in these areas leading to blockage. Not only will cleaning these areas out increase the efficiency and life of your dryer, but it will greatly decrease your risk for dryer fire.

The 3 Components of Fire

9/8/2022 (Permalink)

Do you know the 3 components of fire?

THE 3 COMPONENTS OF FIRE

We often talk about fire damage and the aftermath in our industry, but the elements to start a fire go overlooked. Fire requires 3 different components to “live” - oxygen, heat, and fuel. Knowing how these 3 components work, can give you some insight on how to decrease your chances of a fire loss. Let's break it down:

OXYGEN
A fire will not survive very long without oxygen. Oxygen helps produce an expanding series of chemical reactions. During this process, smoke and carbon monoxide are produced.

HEAT
There needs to be enough combustible heat present to ignite. The heat necessary for igniting is different for each substance. For example, a large piece of wood is more difficult to light than a pile of dry leaves.

FUEL
The type of fuel necessary to ignite a fire can be either organic or inorganic material. Wood or plastic can be the perfect “fuel” for a fire, especially on a property.The

Fire, Smoke and Soot Breakdown

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

Fire, smoke or soot damage? Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Moorhead!

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allow for 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 [Douglas & Otter Tail Counties] 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.

Grilling Gone Wrong: Safety Tips on How to Avoid an Outdoor Fire Catastrophe

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

This photo is from an actual customer who had a grill fire. Fortunately, they called us and we were able to cleanup and fix the damage!

Grilling season is upon us! Who doesn’t love a good summer bar-b-que? Hot dogs, steaks, hamburgers… nothing beats a good grill out. That is if everything goes smoothly. Without following proper safety protocols, your deck or home could end up fried. Follow these 8 safety tips from First Alert to stay safe this grilling season:

• Only use grills outside

It might seem like a good idea to set up your grill in your garage or under a balcony to stay in the shade or keep out of the rain. However, this is a major fire risk. Keep your grill in a place where there is plenty of ventilation.

• Place your grill away from your home

Grills should always be at least 10 feet from home and other fire hazardous structures.

• Make sure your grill is located on a flat, level surface

Your grill should not be on a slope or uneven surface. This could lead to the grill tipping over and easily starting a fire.

• Check your grill for leaks

If you store your grill inside for the winter, you should always check it thoroughly before grilling season. Leaks in gas lines can cause propane or natural gas to build up while the lid is closed. Always open your lid before lighting.

• Always clean your grill after use

Barbecuing regularly causes grease to build up. If not properly cleaned it can act as fuel and catch fire while the grill is in use.

• Never leave a grill unattended while in use

You should never leave a grill alone while it is in use. High heat and open flames is a recipe for disaster if left unattended.

• Wear appropriate clothing

When grilling food, wear clothes that won’t interfere while you are cooking. Loose articles of clothing are more easily caught on fire. If clothing does catch on fire, remember to stop, drop, and roll.

• Keep a spray bottle and fire extinguisher on hand

Keep a spray bottle nearby while cooking in case small flames ignite and fire extinguisher incase of larger flames.

Call SERVPRO of Moorhead - (218) 236-7447

How Will My Fire Damage Be Restored in Moorhead?

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Clay County!

Our local team in Moorhead follows the same procedure when restoring homes and businesses damaged by fire as follows:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

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 Assessment

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

We will board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes most 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

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 restorable items. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, installing new carpet, or major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call Us!

Our local team in Moorhead are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration in Moorhead every year. Call us today at 218-236-7447.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Small Kitchen Fire Extinguished by a Homeowner in Moorhead?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Clay County.

Our team in Moorhead knows how effective portable fire extinguishers can be for putting out small, contained fires. Here is some information about fire extinguisher safety and use from the National Fire Protection Association:

• To operate a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS:
• Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism
• Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly
• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side
• For the home, select a multi-purpose extinguisher (can be used on all types of home fires) that is large enough to put out a small fire, but not so heavy as to be difficult to handle
• Choose a fire extinguisher that carries the label of an independent testing laboratory
• Read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher and become familiar with its parts and operation before a fire breaks out

Call Us Today!

You never know when a fire might break out in your Moorhead home or commercial business, but if one does, our local team in Moorhead will arrive to begin the cleanup and restoration process immediately. We typically arrive onsite within four hours of your call. Call us today at 218-236-7447.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

E-Cigarette Battery Explosion in Sabin?

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Clay County.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more cigarette fires occur in homes each year. SERVPRO® of Moorhead offers these smoking safety tips from the NFPA:

Electronic Cigarettes

• Battery failures have led to small explosions
• Never leave charging e-cigarettes unattended
• E-cigarettes should be used with caution
• Fires have occurred while e-cigarettes were being used
• Fires have occurred while the battery was being charged
• Fires have occurred while the device was being transported

Smoking Safety

• If you smoke, use only fire-safe cigarettes
• If you smoke, smoke outside. Most deaths result from fires that started in living rooms, family rooms, and dens or bedrooms.
• Keep cigarettes, lighters, matches, and other smoking materials up high out of the reach of children, in a locked cabinet
• Use a deep, sturdy ashtray. Place it away from anything that can burn.
• Do not discard cigarettes in vegetation such as mulch, potted plants or landscaping, peat moss, dried grasses, leaves, or other things that could ignite easily
• Before you throw away butts and ashes, make sure they are out, and dousing in water or sand is the best way to do that

Call Us!

When you have a fire damage emergency in your Moorhead home or business, you can rely on SERVPRO® of Moorhead to mitigate and remediate the damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-236-7447.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Fireplace Fire in Sabin?

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Clay County.

I remember coming across an old abandoned log cabin while backpacking in Wild River State Park. In front of the fireplace was an old bed frame, and I remember thinking that my bed would be in the same place if I lived in the Minnesota wilderness. I also remember thinking how dangerous it would be to have a bed in front of a roaring fire with no fire screen!

We’ve come a long way since the days of living in one-room log cabins, but SERVPRO® of Moorhead does respond to many fire damage emergencies during the winter season. Here are some tips for having a safe and fire-damage-free winter:

• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room
• Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional

Call Us!

Moorhead residents and businesses can rely on SERVPRO^® of Moorhead to restore fire damage no matter how big the job is. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-236-7447.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Holiday Decoration Fire in Sabin?

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Clay County.

SERVPRO® of Moorhead responds to more fire damage emergencies than any other form of property damage in Sabin during the winter months. Here are some electrical safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Have all electrical work done by a qualified electrician
• Only use one heat-producing appliance plugged into a receptacle outlet at a time
• Major appliances should be plugged directly into a wall receptacle outlet. Do not use extension cords and plug strips.
• Arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) shut off electricity when a dangerous condition occurs. Consider having them installed in your home.
• Use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to reduce the risk of shock. GFCIs shut off an electrical circuit when it becomes a shock hazard. They should be installed inside the home in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and basements. All outdoor receptacles should be GFCI protected.
• Test AFCIs and GFCIs once a month according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Check electrical cords to make sure they are not running across doorways or under carpets. Extension cords are intended for temporary use. Have a qualified electrician add more receptacle outlets, so you don’t have to use extension cords.

Call Us Today!

When you have fire damage in your home or business, SERVPRO^® of Moorhead is Here to Help. ® We’ll clean and restore your damage in Sabin, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-236-7447.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Arson Fire in Barnesville?

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Clay County.

I looked out my back window and noticed a fire burning in my neighbor’s backyard. I knew they weren’t home, so I called the fire department. The firefighters told us that other brush fires had been set recently and were attributed to arson.

Intentionally set fires, or arson, is one of the top five leading causes of fires in the United States. SERVPRO® of Moorhead responds to fire damage emergencies each year in Barnesville. According to the National Fire Protection Association:

• Between 2010 and 2014, United States municipal fire departments responded to an average of 261,330 fires that were intentionally set
• These fires included 196,480 outside or unclassified fires, 49,690 structure fires, and 13,160 vehicle fires
• Losses resulting from these fires included 440 civilian deaths, 1,310 civilian injuries, and $1 billion in direct property damage
• Despite representing 19 percent of all intentional fires, structure fires accounted for 87 percent of civilian deaths, 84 percent of civilian injuries, and 86 percent of direct property damage caused by deliberate fires 

Call Us Today!

When your Barnesville home or commercial business needs fire damage restoration services, SERVPRO^® of Moorhead is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-236-7447. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Halloween Party safety Tips for Moorhead?

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Clay County.

Spooky Halloween fun for all!

SERVPRO® of Moorhead responds to more fire damage emergencies during the holiday season than at any other time of the year in Clay County, and some of these fires may have been prevented.

Here are some Halloween safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Use a battery-operated candle or glow stick in jack-o-lanterns
• Dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper catch fire easily. Keep all decorations away from open flames and other heat sources like light bulbs and heaters.
• When using electrical lighting to decorate your home, ensure it is used following the manufacturer’s instructions. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged
• Remember to keep exits clear of decorations, so nothing blocks escape routes. Make sure all smoke alarms are working. 

For families planning to attend Halloween parties or go trick-or-treating:

• When choosing costumes, stay away from long trailing fabric that could come in contact with open flames or other heat sources
• Teach children to stay away from open flames, including jack-o-lanterns with candles in them
• Provide children with flashlights to carry for lighting or glow sticks as part of their costumes

Call Us!

When your Moorhead home or commercial business needs fire damage restoration services, SERVPRO^® of Moorhead is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-236-7447.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Photo Preservation Services in Dilworth?

9/6/2021 (Permalink)

We offer a full range of contents restoration services in Clay County.

Dilworth residents need to know!

When a fire damaged my home, every item in the house was compromised. There was smoke and soot damage and water damage caused by the firefighting efforts. SERVPRO® of Moorhead has been cleaning and restoring fire-damaged properties in Dilworth for years. Our technicians are trained to perform a full range of contents restoration services when needed to complete a restoration.

Valuable documents and photographs can get damaged by the water used to extinguish the fire. We use extreme caution when handling these precious items to ensure the fire damage does not destroy the documents. Although some documents may not be able to be restored, we can save a great deal and help minimize further damage. We use various restoration options depending on the level of fire, smoke, or soot damage, including:

• Air Drying
• Dehumidification
• Freezer Drying
• Vacuum Freeze Drying
• Vacuum Thermal Drying

Call Us!

You never know when you might need fire damage restoration services, but when you do, SERVPRO^® of Moorhead is Here to Help. ® We restore fire damage for homes and commercial businesses 24-hours a day, every day of the year. Call us today at 218-236-7447. We’ll restore your fire damage in Dilworth, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Pet Fire Safety Tips for Barnesville?

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Clay County.

SERVPRO® of Moorhead responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year in Barnesville. Here are some pet fire safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association to keep your furry friends safe:

• Pets are curious. They may bump into, turn on, or knock over cooking equipment. Keep pets away from stoves and countertops.
• Keep pets away from candles, lamps, and space heaters
• Always use a metal or heat-tempered glass screen on a fireplace and keep it in place.
• Keep pets away from a chimney’s outside vents. Have a “pet-free zone” of at least three feet away from the fireplace. Glass doors and screens can stay dangerously hot for several hours after the fire goes out
• Consider battery-operated, flameless candles. They can look and smell like real candles.
• Some pets are chewers. Watch pets to make sure they don’t chew through electrical cords. Have any problems been checked by a professional?

Pets and Wildfires

Make sure pets are included in your family’s wildfire evacuation plan. Build an evacuation kit for each pet in your household. Ensure each kit is a size and weight that can be quickly and easily loaded into a vehicle when packing to evacuate.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business needs fire damage restoration services, SERVPRO^® of Moorhead is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-236-7447. We’ll restore your fire damage in Barnesville, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire-damage Safety Tips for Moorhead Residents?

7/5/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Clay County.

When my home was damaged by fire, my insurance adjuster told me to call SERVPRO® of Moorhead. They gave me some helpful tips on things I could do while waiting for help to arrive.

Fire Damage Safety Tips – While Waiting for Help to Arrive

After any fire damage situation, your safety should be the primary focus.

• Stay in the house only if it safe
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform
• Wet materials can be veryheavy

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open
• Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves
• Change the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) filter
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO^® of Moorhead has a team of highly trained and certified restoration technicians on-call to respond to residential and commercial fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day. Call us today at 218-236-7447. We’ll restore your fire damage in Moorhead, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Large Animal Fire Evacuation Plan in Glyndon?

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in fire mitigation in Moorhead.

Prepare Before a Fire

Do you have an evacuation plan in place for the large animals if there is a fire on your property? At SERVPRO® of Moorhead, we have been responding to fire damage emergencies in the Glyndon area for years, and we know how critical it is to have an evacuation plan in place for our families, small pets, and large animals. Here are some tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for evacuation planning for large animals:

• Ensure all animals have some form of identification
• Evacuate animals earlier, whenever possible. Map out primary and secondary routes in advance.
• Make available vehicles and trailers needed for transporting and supporting each type of animal. Also make available experienced handlers and drivers.
• Ensure destinations have food, water, veterinary care and handling equipment
• If evacuation is not possible, animal owners must decide whether to move large animals to a barn or turn them loose outside

Call Us!

You never know when you’ll need to implement an evacuation plan, but it sure is good to have one when a fire or other disaster strikes. SERVPRO^® of Moorhead is ready to assist home and commercial business owners with any size fire damage emergency and we are ready to respond 24-hours a day. Call us today at 218-236-7447. We’ll restore your fire damage in Glyndon, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Moorhead is Independently Owned and Operated.

Cooking Fire Safety Tips for Moorhead?

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire restoration in Clay County.

Keeping Moorhead Families Safe in the Kitchen

Did you know that cooking fires are the most common source of home fires in the United States? At SERVPRO® of Moorhead, we respond to kitchen fire damage emergencies often during the year in the Moorhead area. Because most of us are cooking and eating at home these days we thought it would be helpful to share some cooking safety information from the National Fire Protection Association to help keep your family safe in the kitchen:

If You Have a Cooking Fire

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat, and keep the door closed

Call Us Today!

When your Moorhead home or business has a fire damage emergency, SERVPRO^® of Moorhead is ready to respond 24-hours a day. Call us today at 218-236-7447. We’ll clean restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Moorhead is Independently Owned and Operated.

Ethanol Fireplace Safety Tips for Moorhead?

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in the Moorhead area.

Portable ethanol burning fireplaces have become more popular. They provide ambiance and some warmth, but according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), they can be dangerous due to the highly flammable fuel, device, and open flame. SERVPRO® of Moorhead wants Moorhead residents to be safe this winter and offer these fireplace safety tips for ethanol burning fireplaces from the NFPA:

• A portable ethanol burning fireplace and the fuel should only be used by adults.
• Clean up any fuel spillage and be sure all liquid has evaporated before lighting the fireplace.
• Light the fireplace using a utility lighter or long match.
• An adult should always be present when a portable fireplace is burning.
• Place the fireplace on a sturdy surface away from table edges.
• It’s a good idea to crack a window open for a fresh supply of air.
• Never try to move a lit fireplace or one that is still hot.
• Don’t pour ethanol fuel in a device that is lit or not completely cool. It may result in a fire or injury.
• Allow the device to cool down for at least 15 minutes before refueling.
• Extinguish the flame when you leave the room, home, or go to sleep.

Call Us!

SERVPRO® of Moorhead has a team of fire restoration technicians on call 24 hours a day. Call us today at 218-236-7447. We’ll clean and restore your fire damage in Moorhead, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Moorhead is Independently Owned and Operated.

Electrical Cord Fire in Moorhead?

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies in the Moorhead areas 24 hours a day!

Electrical Fire Facts

Winter months have the highest amount of electrical fires each year, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). SERVPRO® of Moorhead responds to electrical fire damage emergencies in the Moorhead area frequently during the winter months. Here are some highlights from one of the NFPA’s most recent reports on electrical fires:

• Fires involving electrical failures or malfunctions accounted for the highest share of civilian deaths (18 percent) and direct property damage (20 percent).
• Nearly two of five fires (39 percent) involving electrical failure or malfunction occurred in the cold weather months from November through February.
• Arcing was the heat source in approximately three of five home fires involving an electrical failure or malfunction.
• Non-confined home fires involving electrical distribution and lighting equipment most often originated in a bedroom, attic or ceiling, or a wall assembly or concealed space.
• Approximately one-quarter of these fires occurred between midnight and 8 a.m., but these fires accounted for 60 percent of deaths.

Call Us Today!

Electrical fires are a common occurrence during the winter months, and if you need help with a fire damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Moorhead has a team of fire restoration technicians available to assist you 24 hours a day. Call us today at 218-236-7447. We’ll clean and restore your fire damage in Moorhead, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Moorhead is Independently Owned and Operated.

Electrical Fire in Moorhead?

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

We are fire restoration specialists in Georgetown.

Electrical Safety Tips

During December, the holiday ornaments come out of storage, and homes all across Moorhead become festooned with holiday decorations. Holiday lights adorn Christmas trees and the roofs of many homes, bringing holiday cheer. Electrical safety is especially important during the winter months as this is when most electrical fires occur. 

SERVPRO® of Moorhead responds to fire damage emergencies often during the winter months, and we know the damage an electrical fire can do to a home. According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), half of all home electrical fires involve equipment or home electrical wiring. Here are some electrical fire safety tips from the NFPA to keep you and your loved ones safe this winter:

• Plug only one heat-producing appliance (like a coffee maker, space heater, or microwave) directly into a wall outlet at a time.
• Never use an extension cord with a heat-producing appliance.
• Extension cords should only be used temporarily.
• Inspect electrical cords for fraying and replace damaged cords.
• Have an electrician install additional wall outlets where you need them.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business experiences fire damage, SERVPRO® of Moorhead is Here to Help.® Our fire restoration technicians are available to assist you 24 hours a day. Call us today at 218-236-7447. We’ll clean and restore your fire damage in Moorhead, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Moorhead is Independently Owned and Operated.

Arson Fires in Moorhead

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

Fires can happen accidentally but it’s worse when caused by arson.

SERVPRO of Moorhead wants you to be aware of the causes of fire damage and fire injuries so that you can help prevent them.

Top Causes of Fires in Moorhead: 

•  Arson & intentional fires. An “intentional fire” is one that is not set to cause harm, but it gets out of control.  Arson is a fire that is set to cause harm. Most of the time, arson and intentional fires are set outside. Deaths, injuries, and fire damage usually happen indoors
• Candles. SERVPRO of Moorhead has more information here.
• Cooking.  Kitchen fires are the leading cause of home fire injuries and home fire damage
• Electrical. Use all electrical equipment according to the directions 
• Heating. Heating equipment is the second most common cause of death in home fires
• December, January, and February are the months that have the most home heating fires
• Smoking. Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other smoking materials are the biggest cause of fire deaths in the U.S. Think of preventing tragedy when explaining why to quit smoking
• Children. Children should never be left alone with matches, lighters, candles, or other dangerous materials. Children playing with fire cause hundreds of deaths and injuries every year

Please pay attention to fire safety. While we can help restore your City or County home or office, prevention and family safety should always come first. Share this blog with a friend who might want to learn more about fire prevention. 

SERVPRO of Moorhead is independently owned and operated. 

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire

Safety Tips when using Candles in Moorhead

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

When fire damage strikes, trust SERVPRO of Moorhead to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Although fires from candles happen more often around the holidays, many people use candles all year round. SERVPRO® of Moorhead wants you to be safe from fire and smoke damage. It is important to be careful any time you have an open flame in your Moorhead home. 

Fire Prevention is the best way to fight against fire damage or injuries.

SERVPRO of Moorhead offers these Tips for Fire Prevention from Candles:

• Do not let children near candles
• Keep trees and other plants away from candles
• Make sure candles are not near window curtains or blinds that could catch fire
• Keep lit candles in safe candle holders
• Do not leave children alone in a room with lit candles
• Do not light candles in the bedroom. You might fall asleep. One-third of all candle fires start in the bedroom. 
• If the power goes out, use flashlights instead of candles
• If someone in the home uses oxygen, do not use candles
• Fire damage from candles happens 35 times a day in the U.S.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire
• Put out candles when leaving the room or going to bed

A little caution goes a long way to protect you and your loved ones. If you have to deal with damage caused by smoke or fire from a candle in your Moorhead home, your friends at SERVPRO of Moorhead are just a phone call away. 

SERVPRO of Moorhead is independently owned and operated. 

Links:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/ 

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire/Candles

https://www.nfpa.org/~/media/files/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets/religious_candles_safety_tips.pdf 

Fried Turkey Fire in Hawley?

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Moorhead!

Turkey Fried Blues

This guy in the picture has the right idea. He has gloves on, and he has the turkey fryer set up outside of his home on nonflammable rocks. But the turkey is not completely thawed, he has way too much oil in the fryer, and he is way too close to that wooden fence behind him. Uh oh, I have a feeling this guy is going to be visited by emergency responders soon! SERVPRO® of Moorhead has seen firsthand the property damage that turkey fryers cause, and we have been restoring fire damage in the Hawley area for years. Our team of highly trained technicians is on call 24 hours a day, every day, and oftentimes we work alongside the first responders in fire damage situations.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in 2017 there were 1600 reported home cooking fires on Thanksgiving. The NFPA strongly discourages the use of turkey fryers because they can cause severe burns, injuries, and property damage. They recommend forgoing the home turkey fryer and getting a fried turkey from a grocery store, restaurant, or other food retailer.

Call Us!

SERVPRO® of Moorhead has the training and experience to safely restore fire damage emergencies of all kinds. Call us today at 218-236-7447. We will clean and restore your property damage in Hawley, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Moorhead is Independently Owned and Operated.

Tips to Prevent Kitchen Fire in Moorhead

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

When fire strikes, SERVPRO of Moorhead is Here To Help.

SERVPRO of Moorhead understands that cooking equipment is a leading cause of fire damage and fire injuries in your Moorhead home.

To help prevent fire damage, SERVPRO of Moorhead shares these tips. They make more sense than not cooking at home.

• Many kitchen items can catch fire, including: dish towels, oven mitts, recipes, wooden tools, and loose clothing
• Never operate the stove or oven when you are tired or have been drinking alcohol
• If you are frying, broiling, grilling, or boiling food, stay in the kitchen. If you leave, even for a short time, turn off the heat
• Keep flammable items at least three feet from the stove top
• Do not allow children within two to four feet of the stove or oven
• If you must leave the house while cooking of any kind, turn off the heat sources

Remember that fire is fast. If you cannot contain a fire immediately, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 from outside your Moorhead home.

SERVPRO of Moorhead reminds you that fire prevention is the best strategy against fire damage. 

SERVPRO of Moorhead is independently owned and operated. 

Links:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/ 

Safety Tips when using Candles in Moorhead

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Enjoying a beautifully lit candle is relaxing. Cleaning up smoke and fire damage is not. Practice safety while using candles.

Although fires from candles happen more often around the holidays, many people use candles all year round. SERVPRO of Moorhead wants you to be safe from fire and smoke damage. It is important to be careful any time you have an open flame in your Moorhead area home. 

Fire Prevention is the best way to fight against fire damage or injuries.

SERVPRO of Moorhead offers these Tips for Fire Prevention from Candles:

• Do not let children near candles
• Keep trees and other plants away from candles
• Make sure candles are not near window curtains or blinds that could catch fire
• Keep lit candles in safe candle holders
• Do not leave children alone in a room with lit candles
• Do not light candles in the bedroom. You might fall asleep. One third of all candle fires start in the bedroom. 
• If the power goes out, use flashlights instead of candles
• If someone in the home uses oxygen, do not use candles
• Fire damage from candles happens 35 times a day in the U.S.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire
• Put out candles when leaving the room or going to bed

A little caution goes a long way to protect you and your loved ones. If you have to deal with damage caused by smoke or fire from a candle in your Moorhead home, your friends at SERVPRO of Moorhead are just a phone call away. 

SERVPRO of Moorhead is independently owned and operated. 

Links:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/ 

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire/Candles

https://www.nfpa.org/~/media/files/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets/religious_candles_safety_tips.pdf