Chemical Fires At Home

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

Did you know that an average of 1,700 home fires per year are caused by instances of spontaneous combustion or chemical reaction? (Source)

Chemicals you use in your home can be dangerous to your health and the environment. To keep your family safe, follow these safety tips from the U.S. Fire Administration when you use, store or throw them out.

• Follow the instructions on the label when you use and store household chemicals.

• Don’t mix products. This can cause deadly gases or cause a fire.

• Store products in their original containers.

• Store anything that can catch on fire away from your home.

• Only fill portable gasoline containers outdoors in an airy area. Make sure to place the container on the ground when you fill it.

• Never store materials that can cause a fire in the sun or near an open flame or heat source.

• Store these materials out of the reach of children and pets.

• Use safety locks and guardrails on shelves and cabinets when you store materials. This will prevent them from falling or tipping.

• Wear gloves or goggles when you use these materials.

We hope this post helped you think about how you can continue to keep your home and your family safe when storing, using or discarding chemical products.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Grill Safety for Summer 2023

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

Every summer we like to write a blog reminding our readers how important it is o grill safety. Grilling is a great way to enjoy delicious food with friends and family, especially during these warm summer months. However, it’s important to remember that grilling can pose a fire hazard if not done safely. Here are some tips for preventing fire damage to your home while grilling:

1. Keep the grill away from your home and any flammable objects. The grill should be placed on a level surface at least 10 feet away from your house, garage, and any trees, shrubs, or other flammable objects.

2. Clean your grill regularly to prevent grease buildup. Grease buildup can ignite and cause a fire, so it’s important to clean your grill after each use. Use a grill brush to remove any food debris and grease.

3. Check for gas leaks before using a gas grill. Gas leaks can cause an explosion or fire, so it’s important to check for leaks before using a gas grill. Apply a soap and water solution to the gas hose and connections, and if you see any bubbles, turn off the gas immediately and have the grill serviced by a professional.

4. Never leave the grill unattended. It’s important to keep a close eye on the grill while it’s in use. Never leave it unattended, and keep children and pets away from the grill.

5. Have a fire extinguisher nearby. In case of a fire, it’s important to have a fire extinguisher nearby. Make sure you know how to use it before you need it.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy grilling without putting your home at risk of fire damage. Remember, safety should always come first when using any type of grill.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

NPM 2021: Week Four "Teach Youth About Preparedness"

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

Welcome to the fourth and final week of 2021 National Preparedness Month! This week's theme is teaching youth about preparedness. 

Disasters happen everywhere, and every member of the family can prepare. Preparedness for the future starts today.

Whether you’re a kid or teen yourself, a parent or loved one, or work with youth, Ready Kids has tools and information to help before, during and after disasters.

Ready.gov has a special website dedicated to educating youth called Ready Kids. We are so excited to share this website because it is filled with AMAZING tools to help teach kids and teens about preparedness. It includes resources, games, and so much more! Be sure to check it out and let us know on social media what you think.

Thank you all for joining us for our weekly NPM 2021 blog series! We hope that each week helped you become more prepared.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Grill Safety for Labor Day Weekend

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

This weekend is Labor Day weekend! We're here on the blog to give some grill safety tips, which we like to do every summer. We can’t forget that grills are responsible for thousands of home fires a year. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers these general grilling guidelines:

• Only use propane and charcoal grills outdoors.
• Place grills away from your home (remember, this counts deck railings!)
• As always, keep children and pets away from the grill area
• Make sure you keep your grill clean by removing the grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill (keep in mind that the leading cause of a grill fire is failure to clean)
• NEVER leave the grill unattended

Keep in mind these safety rules and have a great Labor Day weekend! 

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Preparing to Charge Your Electric Vehicle at Home

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that there are over one million electric vehicles on the road in the United States? We wanted to share safety tips to keep our Phenix City, Eufaula & Tuskegee communities safe and prepared against the risks of home fires when charging an electric vehicle (EVs). We're sharing information straight from U.S. Fire Administration.

First, let's talk about the two types of home charging.

• Level 1 uses the charger included with the EV. These chargers are plugged into a standard 120-volt outlet.
• Level 2 charging uses a charger that is sold separately from the EV and allows for faster charging times. They are plugged into a 240-volt outlet.

Before buying an electric vehicle, have a qualified electrician install a new, dedicated circuit for your charging device. Older home wiring may not be suitable for use with electric vehicle supply equipment, but be sure to consult with your electrician. 

Here are the tips to help keep you & our community safe when you are charging an electric vehicle (EVs). 

• Follow manufacturer's guidelines when charging your vehicle. Check with your local dealer if you need additional information.
• Purchase a charging device that is certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
• Plug Level 1 EV chargers directly into an outlet designed to handle the amperage of the charging device. Never use a multi-plug adapter or extension cord.
• Install a residual current device with the charging unit. It will turn off the power if a fault is detected and help prevent a fire.
• Place all charging device components out of reach of children when not in use.
• Maintain the components of your charging station according to the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines. Signs of excessive wear may indicate a potential shock hazard.
• Never use an EV charger with obvious signs of damage.
• Cover the EV charging station outlet to stop water from entering. Check the manufacturer's guidelines to make sure it is safe to charge your EV in wet conditions.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252! 

Facts About Garage Fires

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Fire & water damage is the cornerstone of our business, but we want our community to stay safe! When you are aware of the risks that can cause house fires in your Phenix City, Eufaula or Tuskegee home, then you can work to prevent them. In today's blog, we wanted to cover garage fires. This is a topic we have never covered before!

According to the U.S. Fire Administration... Every year, there are 6,600 garage fires in homes that result in an average of:

• 30 deaths.
• 400 injuries.
• $457 million in property loss.

Of these fires, 93 percent occurred in one- and two-family homes.

You might be wondering what causes these fires? Electrical malfunction is the leading cause of garage fires. These fires can start because of shorts in wires, damaged wires, and overloading electrical outlets.

In our next blog post, we're going to be sharing tips to follow to help prevent garage fires in your home. Stay tuned!

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252! 

Preventing Garage Fires in Your Phenix City Home

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

In our last blog post, we talked garage fires, which is something we haven't written a blog post about before. We promised our next blog would be sharing tips to help prevent a garage fire in your home.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, follow these prevention tips to keep homes safe from garage fires.

• Store oil, gasoline, paints, propane and varnishes in a shed away from your home.
• Keep items that can burn on shelves away from appliances.
• Plug only one charging appliance into an outlet.
• Don’t use an extension cord when charging an appliance.
• Install:
• A 20-minute fire-rated door that is self-closing and self-latching from the garage into the house.
• A ceiling made with ?-inch Type X gypsum board (or the equivalent) if you have living space above the garage.
• A wall with ½-inch gypsum board (or the equivalent) if the wall attaches the garage to your home.
• An attic hatch cover if you have attic access from the garage.
• A heat alarm — not a smoke alarm — in your garage. The heat alarm will sound if the temperature rises too high.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252! 

Electrical & Appliance Safety to Prevent Home Fires

8/4/2021 (Permalink)

Home fires are preventable! The following are simple steps that each of us can take to prevent a tragedy related to electrical & appliance safety. These steps were written by our friends over at Ready.gov and we are happy to be able to share them with our community.

• Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
• If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
• Immediately shut off, then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to the touch and lights that flicker.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252! 

Preventing Home Fires: Cooking Edition

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

A leading cause of fires at home are related to cooking. Here are four steps you can take to protect your home while cooking.

• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time turn off the stove.
• Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.
• Keep children away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of three feet around the stove.
• Position barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Build a Kit Pt. 2

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

In our last blog post, we discussed the foundation of building an emergency kit. We wanted to make a part 2 discussing a few additional considerations from our friends at Ready.gov. 

Since Spring of 2020, the CDC has recommended people include additional items in their kits to help prevent the spread of coronavirus or other viruses and the flu.

Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:

• Cloth face coverings (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
• Prescription medications
• Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
• Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
• Pet food and extra water for your pet
• Cash or traveler's checks
• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
• Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
• Paper and pencil
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Four Fast Facts About Fire

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that in just two minutes a fire can become life-threatening? And that in five minutes a residence can be engulfed in flames? Here are four fast facts about fire that you should know. Thank you to our friends at Ready.gov for compiling these facts for us to share with our customers!

• Fire is FAST! In less than 30 seconds a small flame can turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a house or for it to be engulfed in flames.
• Fire is HOT! Heat is more threatening than flames. Room temperatures in a fire can be 100 degrees at floor level and rise to 600 degrees at eye level. Inhaling this super-hot air will scorch your lungs and melt clothes to your skin.
• Fire is DARK! Fire starts bright, but quickly produces black smoke and complete darkness.
• Fire is DEADLY! Smoke and toxic gases kill more people than flames do. Fire produces poisonous gases that make you disoriented and drowsy. Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by a 3-to-1 ratio.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Fires & Storms

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Thunder & lightning happen often, especially during summer storms. Did you know that every year there are home fires caused by lightning strikes?

In a 2013 the NFPA published a report titled "Lightning Fires & Lightning Strikes" from Marty Ahrens. One of the highlights states, "During 2007-2011, U.S. local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 22,600 fires per year that were started by lightning. These fires caused an average of nine civilian deaths, 53 civilian injuries, and $451 million in direct property damage per year. Most of these fires occurred outdoors, but most associated deaths, injuries, and property damage were associated with home fires." The report also stated that lightning-related fires are more common in June through August and in the late afternoon and evening. 

If your home or business is damaged by a fire, give us a call. We're available 24/7 to help you and your family through this difficult time.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Thank You, Firefighters!

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

So many in our community are going to work bravely each day during a global pandemic. We have been so thankful to be able to do our part in helping businesses get back to serving their customers safely. However, we want to take a moment to say thank you to the firefighters and EMS workers who have continue to fearlessly & courageously help our community during this time. Your sacrifice does not go unnoticed and we are extremely thankful for each and every one of you. Thank you for your continued work in our community. 

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Safety During 4th of July Weekend

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

Every summer we like to share some safety tips to keep your home safe from fireworks. With the Fourth of July approaching, we figured that we should review fireworks safety.  The estimated annual cost of fireworks-related injuries is $100 million. Fireworks-related fires have caused at least $15 to $20 million in property loss each year in the past decade.

    Fireworks are beautiful to watch but here are a few simple rules to keep in mind:

• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before purchasing them.
• Never try to re-light a dud and always light one at a time (and remember, stand back)
• Although, this may seem like common sense, statistics say that this reminder is needed- use fireworks outside only
• ALWAYS supervise both children and pets when they are in a close proximity to the area in which the fireworks are being lit
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks. Always buy from a trusted fireworks distributer.

    And last, but not least, while keeping safety rules in mind, don't forget to have fun! Enjoy the long weekend.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Keeping Safety in Mind

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

The month of July is the peak month out of the year for grill fires. That's why every July, we come back onto the blog to share tips from the National Fire Protection Association to make sure that we keep safety in mind as we embark on memorable summer outings with our family & friends.

We wanted to share an important statistic from a News Release from the NFPA , "While gas grills cause more home fires than charcoal grills, NFPA reminds everyone that all types of grills pose a risk for fires and burn injuries. According to the report, over one-quarter (27 percent) of home grill fires started on an exterior balcony or open porch, another 27 percent started in a courtyard, terrace or patio, and eight percent began in the kitchen."

This means that regardless of the type of grill you own, you are still at risk. Let's lower that risk together by sticking to a few safety tips that the NFPA has shared on their website. 

They suggest the following tips for grilling:

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed away the home or deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Children and pets should be at least three feet away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease and fat buildup from the grates and trays below.
• Never leave your grill unattended.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252! 

Protecting Pets During Fires

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

You've probably seen our pups on our social media. If you have a dog, you know that they're family. That's why it is important to learn how to protect them in the case of a home fire. 

Home fires are the most common disaster that the American Red Cross responds to – and also the most preventable.

• The best way to protect your pets from the effects of a fire is to include them in your family plan. This includes having their own disaster supplies kit as well as arranging in advance for a safe place for them to stay if you need to leave your home.

• When you practice your escape plan, practice taking your pets with you. Train them to come to you when you call.

• In the event of a disaster, if you must evacuate, the most important thing you can do to protect your pets is to evacuate them, too. But remember: never delay escape or endanger yourself or family to rescue a family pet.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252! 

Sound the Alarms

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

Have you tested your fire alarms lately? According to the Red Cross, you could have as few as only TWO MINUTES to escape safely from your house after a fire begins. 

This is why testing your fire alarms should be a part of your home maintenance routine! These alarms in your home make sure that you get alerted as soon as possible that a fire has started. 

Next item on the list is having a planned fire escape route. BUT, having it isn't enough- you need to have practiced this route with your family ahead of time. Check out this free worksheet from the Red Cross to help you as you plan for your Phenix City, Eufaula or Tuskegee home!

Two minutes is quick, but disaster strikes in the blink of an eye. Make sure that your family and your home is ready. Once your family is safe, you can call in the professionals to handle your home.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Fire Damage Reconstruction

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

With the addition of our construction manager, Roger Dix, we are ready to handle your fire loss from the beginning to the end. We also moved Bo Bryan over to the reconstruction arena recently. Bo and Roger have both been busy meeting with customers and finding out how we can help them get their home back together.

HOWEVER, we are a mitigation first company. Our main goal has been and will always be to mitigate and save as much material as possible (remember, we believe in Restore > Replace) and we will never go away from that. But, if there are some materials that we do need to remove, please know that we have Roger and Bo ready to meet with you and truly make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Can You Smell Disaster?

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

After a home fire, there can be quite the array of smells left behind. Don't worry! We have several resources to help get rid of odors either in a home or in a commercial setting, regardless of what the cause may be!

First, we will do a site inspection to see what might be causing the odor and see if we can help locate where it is coming from. Then, we will recommend a process to get the odor knocked out. Some of those processes may include our hydroxyl or our ozone. Both are similar, but still very different. Allow us to explain!

The ozone is great for odors; however, it can only be used when the home or business is completely vacant and there are no humans or animals around it. The hydroxyl can be used when humans or animals are around it and it will not harm them. Because of this, it might take a little longer than the ozone. However, safety comes first! 

Both of these machines can help eliminate most odors that you have going on and we highly recommend them! Give us a call today. 

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

We Have a Chemist?!?!

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

By being apart of an extensive network of SERVPRO franchises (what we refer to often as the SERVPRO family), we are lucky enough to have our own chemist onsite! You may be wondering what we would need a chemist for. He is the one responsible for making all of our proprietary products and works out of the SERVPRO corporate office. Regardless of the type of job, our chemist has the right chemical made for us to be ready for anything that we run into. With 200+ chemicals already out, we have the capability to clean almost anything. Not only are these products safe, but we can produce a SDS for all of our proprietary products. 

We understand the intense emotions that come with a fire loss. Our SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula & Tuskegee technicians will treat you with empathy and your home as their own.

We also believe in the "Restore > Replace Mentality." What does this mean? It means that we work directly with your insurance company to determine which items can be restored and which items are unfortunately a loss. From there, we offer pack out services where we inventory, document and bring those items to our secure office and warehouse. We then begin to clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of advanced cleaning techniques and our proprietary chemicals to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. 

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Prepared On a Budget

8/23/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Industries, Inc. is once again proud to be a member of the National Preparedness Month Coalition and is committed to helping the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in their efforts to promote the importance of preparedness planning.

It is no secret that many families and individuals are looking to cut back on spending. But with the frequency of disasters, both natural and manmade, can you afford not to be prepared? Preparedness doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. September is National Preparedness Month, and we are asking you to help your family and friends prepare for whatever may come. Here are a few tips* on how you can protect those that matter to you without spending a fortune.

• Make a Plan. Work with you family and neighbors to make an emergency plan for the types of disasters that affect your area. Make sure everyone in your family understands where to go and what to do in case of an emergency. You can download Family Emergency Plan templates www.ready.gov/make-a-plan

• Update Contact Information. Having accurate records for family, friends and neighbors will help you stay in contact and possibly help those in need. Make sure updated contact information is posted in visible places throughout your house and workplace.

• Check Your Policy. Review your insurance policy annually and make any necessary changes – renters, too! When a disaster strikes, you want to know that your coverage will get you back on your feet.

• Make a Ready List. You may not need all of the items in ready-made preparedness kits. Choose the essentials that fit your needs and budget. Don’t forget to keep supplies at work and in your car. Sample Ready Lists can be found at www.ready.gov/document/family- supply-list

• Plan Your Purchases. You can save money by thinking ahead. Don’t buy preparedness items just before a storm when they’re expensive and supplies will be in high demand. Buy items at the end of the season when you can get good deals.

• Shop Sales. Shop at sales and used goods stores. Buy preparedness items throughout the year, instead of all at once, and you won’t notice the cost as much.

• Make Sure it Keeps. Store water in safe, containers. You don’t need to buy expensive bottled water, just make sure your water containers are disinfected and airtight

• Request a Gift. We all get things we don’t need. Suggest preparedness supplies as gifts from your friends and family. It just might save your life.

• Trade a Night Out. Trade one night out to fund your 72-hour kit. Taking a family of four to the movies can cost upwards of $80. Just one night staying in could fund your Ready kit.

• *The best tip: start now. Take small steps toward preparedness and before you know it, you will be Ready!

Celebrating Summer with Campfire Safety

7/4/2018 (Permalink)

Summer is the perfect time to take a break and go camping! We don't know about you but when we go camping, a night around the campfire is mandatory. When we don't have enough time to go camping, we'll even celebrate with an at-home campfire and enjoy some s'mores. 

When we talk about campfires though, we have to talk about campfire safety. We'd like to take the time to thank Smokey Bear for compiling so much wonderful advice that we get to share with you.

First, make sure you are familiar with your campground or event area to ensure that you are allowed to build a campfire. You can also see if the area already has fire pits or fire rings for you to use. 

Secondly, do not build a campfire in dry conditions.

If a fire pit/ring doesn't already exist (but you are allowed to build a campfire), you will then need to choose a site that is at least 15 feet from tent walls and surrounding plant life (like shrubs or trees). Also keep in mind staying away from "fuel" sources such as logs, decaying leaves or brush. 

Lastly, don't forget to keep in mind the direction of the wind to make sure that you keep yourself and the campsite safe. 

If you'd like to learn more about campfire safety, click here to read more about it. If you go camping this summer, we'd love to hear about it on our social media. Tag us in your photo on Instagram using our handle @SERVPROofPET so we can see your campfire safety. 

July: The Peak Month for Grill Fires

7/4/2018 (Permalink)

Every year we write a grill safety tips blog in the summer and that is because we know just how important these tips are to ensuring that you and your family are safe. 

We're sharing these tips from the National Fire Protection Association. They put it best by saying that you want your summer barbecue to be memorable for the right reasons. 

Propane Grills

Before you use your grill:

• Check the major connection points between the gas (propane) tank hose and the regulator and cylinder, and where the hose connects to the burners. Tighten if loose.
• Check the gas (propane) tank hose for the potential (gas) leaks. To do that:
  • Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle.
  • Turn the propane tank on. If there is a gas leak, the propane will release bubbles around the hose (big enough to see).
  • If there are no bubbles, your grill is safe to use.
• If there are bubbles, turn off the tank and check connections, then have your grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
• If the leak doesn’t stop, call the fire department immediately.

When the grill is on:

• As you are cooking, if you smell gas, turn off the gas tank and burners.
• If the leak stops immediately, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
• If the smell continues, move away from the grill and call the fire department immediately. Do not move the grill.

Charcoal Grills

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
• There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

Thanks again to the NFPA for having such great resources for us to share with our followers. Who is ready for some grilling?

Facts About Lightning Fires

7/4/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know that lightning fires peak in the summer months? It's the beginning of July and summer is in full swing. 

We're back on the blog to share some great information from the National Fire Protection Association. 

Here are some facts that you may not have known:  

• During 2007-2011, U.S. local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 22,600 fires per year that were started by lightning. These fires caused an average of nine civilian deaths, 53 civilian injuries, and $451 million in direct property damage per year.
• Only 19% of reported lightning fires occurred in homes, but these accounted for 86% of the associated lightning fire civilian deaths, 76% of the associated injuries and 68% of the direct property damage.
• Almost two-thirds of the lightning fires reported to local fire departments were outside vegetation fires.  

Fires started by lightning peak in the summer months and in the late afternoon and early evening.

Stay safe this summer but if disaster strikes your home or business, we're here to help 24/7. 

Keeping Your Home Safe

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

According to ESFI, home electrical fires account for an estimated 42,210 fires each year, nearly 500 deaths, 1,370 injuries, and $1.4 billion in property damage.

Here are their electrical and fire safety tips right off their website: 

• Have your home electrical system thoroughly inspected by qualified electricians to ensure that all electrical work in the home meets the safety provisions in the NEC.
• Install smoke detectors on every level of the home, inside each bedroom, and outside each sleeping area.
• Ask a qualified electrician if your home would benefit from AFCI protection, especially during inspections of older homes or upgrades to electrical systems. These advanced new safety devices recognize dangerous conditions that are not detected by standard breakers.
• Test smoke detectors and AFCIs monthly to ensure that they are working properly.
• Establish an evacuation plan that can be used in case of an emergency, and practice with your family.
• Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on the light fixture.
• In homes with young children, install tamper resistant receptacles to prevent electrical shocks and burns.
• Conduct a basic assessment of your home electrical system, electrical cords, extension cords, power plugs, and outlets.
• Look for telltale signs of electrical problems such as dim and flickering lights, unusual sizzling and buzzing sounds from your electrical system, insulation and circuit breakers that trip repeatedly. Contact a qualified electrician immediately.
• Use extension cords only temporarily, and never with space heaters or air conditioners.
• Avoid overloading outlets. Consider having additional circuits or outlets added by a qualified electrician as needed.

Special thanks to the Electrical Safety Foundation International for having all of this information up and sharing it across the globe for National Electrical Safety Month! We're glad we're able to share this information with our followers. 

National Electric Safety Month: Extension Cords

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

As you know, May is National Electric Safety Month and we are celebrating by bringing you tips to keep you and your home safe. 

Here's some great information straight off of ESFI's website:

Roughly 3,300 home fires originate in extension cords each year, killing 50 people and injuring 270 more. Extension cords can overheat and cause fires when used improperly, so keep these important tips in mind to protect your home and workplace.

• Don’t attempt to plug extension cords into one another
• Make sure extension cords are properly rated for their intended use, indoor or outdoor, and meet or exceed the power needs of the device being used
• Keep all outdoor extension cords clear of snow and standing water
• Do NOT overload extension cords
• A heavy reliance on extension cords is an indication that you have too few outlets to address your needs. Have additional outlets installed where you need them
• Inspect cords for damage before use. Check for cracked or frayed sockets, loose or bare wires, and loose connections
• Do NOT nail or staple extension cords to walls or baseboards
• Do NOT run extension cords through walls, doorways, ceilings, or floors. If a cord is covered, heat cannot escape, which may result in a fire hazard
• Never use three-prong plugs with outlets that only have two slots. Never cut off the ground pin to force a fit, which could lead to electric shock
• Buy only cords that have been approved by an independent testing laboratory
• Do NOT substitute extension cords for permanent wiring
• Do NOT use an extension cord or power strip with heaters or fans, which could cause cords to overheat and result in a fire

We are ready to help you if your home is affected by a fire but we're also here to help you know ways to avoid giving us that call. Keep your home safe. 

We are excited to bring you more tips this month! 

Celebrating National Electrical Safety Month

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) is a non-profit organization dedicated exclusively to promoting electrical safety in the home, school, and workplace. This month is dedicated to "Understanding the Code that Keeps Us Safe." 

Electricity is everywhere and it affects every aspect of our lives. However, it isn't until we lose power that we realize just how much we take electricity for granted. Codes and Standards help us use electricity in a safe and efficient manner. You can read more about this here. 

This code does a few things but the three things it really highlights is that it sets the minimum standards for safe electrical installation. This code is updated every three years. It also ensures that electrical systems behind our walls are safe. 

The reason we find this so important to share with you guys is that homes that are not up to date with the latest safety codes are not adequately protected against fire and electrical hazards. They estimate the cost to upgrade from the 2011 NEC to the 2017 NEC is less than $200. That is a small price to pay to keep your home safe! 

Make sure your home is up to date on it's electrical code so that you can avoid an electrical fire. Have a great week. 

Our Local Community: Terry's Grocery

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

After an overnight fire at Terry's Grocery, disaster had struck their business. If you're in the East Alabama area, you probably know and love Terry's already and were devastated at the news. Thankfully, there were no injuries. 

We're locally owned and operated so we were ready to respond. Our team worked extremely hard to get the job done to allow Terry's to get back to serving the local community. Speaking of the community, they were there to help, too! It is awesome to watch the support of the local community when something like this happens. Between the team at Terry's Grocery and our AWESOME employees here at SERVPRO, we are happy to announce that today they had their first customer at 2PM. We are so thankful we have the opportunity to help when disaster strikes. 

Weekend Disasters: Fires

3/9/2018 (Permalink)

A fire can be devastating to your business but we can make it "Like it never even happened."

Did you know that more home fires occur on Saturday and Sunday? According to the Red Cross, they do! In fact, they refer to home fires as America's biggest disaster threat. 

We all know that home fires are the most likely to begin in the kitchen. Recently on our social media, we asked what you thought the leading cause of home fires in the winter was. A lot of you said space heaters but the answer is actually still cooking. We want to stress that no matter what the weather is like outside that you have to be careful in the kitchen. 

On top of home fires, business fires can be absolutely devastating as well. Thankfully, we are here to help. Whether it is your home or your business, we can make it "Like it never even happened." You can give us a call 24/7 when a fire happens (big or small) at (334) 298-8252. 

Phenix City, Eufaula, and Tuskegee Home Fires

1/9/2018 (Permalink)

Let us help you today.

Damage caused by a fire is devastating for your home and for your family. It’s a stressful and confusing time, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. Our professionals will always treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with great care. Besides the obvious advantage of lower costs, our “restore first” mentality also gets you back into your home or business quicker and with less disruption to your life. Our restoration specialists are highly trained and will get the job done right. 

Remember that we are here for you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year so never hesitate to give us a call at (334)-298-8252 so we can get your home back to "Like it never even happened." 

California Wildfires

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

Photo Credit goes to NBC Los Angeles

California currently has four major fires raging in their state in different areas. Officials say that this is due to last winter being one filled with more rain than prior years which then left the hillsides covered in vegetation. However, when their dry summer rolled around, it turned that grass into tinder which become the fuel that allowed this to spread so easily with the strong winds. These pictures are absolutely heartbreaking and look almost like something out of a movie but it is very, very real for those in the area. 

Although we are here in Alabama, we wanted to provide a resource for those who may have loved ones in the area. Regardless of the extent of the damage, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can handle any size disaster. During catastrophic events like the wildfires in Southern California, our Disaster Recovery Team can respond quickly with additional resources. You can call 1-800-SERVPRO to locate your nearest franchise. We have a network of over 1,700+ franchises so please know that we are all here to help.

Our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with those being affected by this absolutely devastating event. 

Link to Photo and Article

Christmas Tree Fires

12/18/2017 (Permalink)

Have you seen this post by NFPA?

We wanted to post a quick re-cap on our blog so that our customers would be aware of the potential dangers involving a Christmas tree fire!

Step 1: When picking your tree, make sure it is fresh! If needles fall off when you touch it, it is best to find another tree. Look for the perfect tree with healthy green needles!

Step 2: When you place your tree, ensure that it is three feet away from any heat source (fireplace, heat vent, etc.) AND ensure that it is not blocking an exit.

Step 3: Check your lights. Make sure they are for indoor use and always turn them off before leaving your house or going to bed.

Step 4: Water your tree daily! 

Last but not least- Step 5: After Christmas is over and you're getting rid of your tree make sure to place the dried out tree outside of your home. Check with your local community to find a recycling program. AND bring your outside lights in to prolong their life! 

Check out the article from NFPA for more information and we hope that everybody has a safe and Merry Christmas! 

It's Been A While...

10/24/2017 (Permalink)

It's been a while since we've introduced ourselves so allow us to re-introduce ourselves to you! We are SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee. We are nationally known but locally owned. We are a part of a network of 1,700+ and growing franchises! We are experts in residential and commercial restoration and cleaning. Learn more about residential services by clicking here or learn more about commercial services by clicking here. We are so proud to serve our local communities. Give us a call today and see what we can do for YOU at (334) 298-8252. 

Don't believe us? Check out our testimonials here! Please see the top right of your screen and follow the links to our social media and follow us there! We'd love to hear from you! 

Fire Do's and Don'ts

7/6/2017 (Permalink)

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 light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Smokewebs

7/6/2017 (Permalink)

Your first thought when you look at the picture on the left may be “oh, those are cobwebs” but it is actually something that we refer to as smoke webs, soot webs, or even soot tags! That is a picture from a home that we visited where the smoke webs appeared in the same room as where the fire started.

     With a quick Google search, you can read about the science behind it but we will save you the search. In short, it’s when plastics burn, the smoke carries a stronger charge than when wood, cotton or paper burns. Sometimes, this causes smoke residue to form the smoke webs. Depending on what exactly the webs are made of, they can be sticky, smeary, and more difficult to clean. Don’t worry. We are here to help! 

Don't forget to like us on Facebook.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Put a Lid On It

7/6/2017 (Permalink)

See that picture to the right? That’s a picture from one of our local jobs! Unfortunately, it happens all too often. Some, not all, of these can be prevented and we are here to tell you how. In most cases, stove top fires occur when cooking oil gets too hot. That temperature varies from product to product. Cooking oils can ignite from 520°F up to 670°F.

Here is what to do if and when that happens:

• Call 911. They don’t mind showing up to a house when the fire is already out but when home fires occur,every second counts!
• Fire is a rapid oxidation reaction. If you remove oxygen, that reaction stops. So put a lid on your cooking. It may take a minute, but that one simple action can sometimes be all it takes to stop a stove top fire. If you don’t have a lid for that pot or pan, try sliding a cookie sheet over it.
• Remember, the fire occurred because the oil reached the temperature in which it ignites at. The next stop is to turn off the heat to try.
• Do not pour water on the burning pot and do not try to move it to a different location.
• If the steps above do not help put out the fire, use your kitchen fire extinguisher to try and put out the fire and wait in a safe area for the fire department to arrive.

Just remember to use caution. Don’t try and turn up the heat to get your pot to heat up faster- because you may forget to turn it back down. Stay around the stove and keep an eye on your cooking. In the event that a fire isn’t prevented and causes any damage, we are here to help make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegeeis locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Fourth of July Fireworks Safety

6/27/2017 (Permalink)

Have a great weekend celebrating the United States of America! Stay safe.

With the Fourth of July approaching, we figured that we should review fireworks safety, just as we did last year.  The estimated annual cost of fireworks-related injuries is $100 million. Fireworks-related fires have caused at least $15 to $20 million in property loss each year in the past decade.

    Fireworks are beautiful to watch but here are a few simple rules to keep in mind:

• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before purchasing them.
• Never try to re-light a dud and always light one at a time (and remember, stand back)
• Although, this may seem like common sense, statistics say that this reminder is needed- use fireworks outside only
• ALWAYS supervise both children and pets when they are in a close proximity to the area in which the fireworks are being lit
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks. Always buy from a trusted fireworks distributer.

    And last, but not least, while keeping safety rules in mind, don't forget to have fun! Enjoy the weekend and your day off of work. 

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Memorial Day Grill Safety

5/16/2017 (Permalink)

“A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself” —Joseph Campbell

Memorial Day weekend is coming up! We're here on the blog to give some grill safety tips. With the summertime in full swing, we are all enjoying time by the pool and barbeques with our friends and family. We can’t forget that grills are responsible for an estimated 8,900 home fires a year. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers these general grilling guidelines:

• Only use propane and charcoal grills outdoors.


• Place grills away from your home (remember, this counts deck railings!)


• As always, keep children and pets away from the grill area


• Make sure you keep your grill clean by removing the grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill (keep in mind that the leading cause of a grill fire is failure to clean)


• NEVER leave the grill unattended

     Who’s ready to throw the hotdogs and hamburgers on the grill this weekend and celebrate how blessed we are to live in a beautiful and free country? We know we are! Keep in mind these safety rules and have a great summer with your family and friends. 

All gave some, some gave all. 

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

National Electrical Safety Month

5/15/2017 (Permalink)

The month of May is National Electrical Safety Month. You can prevent a fire by looking for electrical hazards. Avoids running cords under rugs or behind furniture. Don't leave your laptop on a sofa or bed charging. Don't overload your outlets. Use the correct wattage light bulbs in their prospective lamps. Smoke alarms should be in every bedroom and outside in the hallways (and remember to test them once a month or so!). Use surge protectors and don't overload extension cords. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association estimates that 60-80% of surges originate from internal sources inside your home or business. Keep your  home or business as safe as you can by practicing electrical safety. 

Remember, if your home is affected by an electrical fire, we are here to help.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Emergency Supply Kit: Are You Ready?

5/8/2017 (Permalink)

Storm restoration is the cornerstone of our business.

Basic Disaster Supply Kit should consist of:

• Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
• Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Manual can opener for food
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger

Thanks to Ready.gov for compiling this list so that others, like us, can share it!

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Returning to Normal After a Fire

5/8/2017 (Permalink)

Your belongings can be replaced, you can't.

In June of 2016, FEMA put out a great PDF file for returning to normal after a fire. You can see that here. But we also wanted to highlight a few things in our blog for our customers to be able to see at a glance. 

First thing is first. Do not eat, drink or breathe in anything that has been near the flames, smoke, soot, or water used to put the fire out.

Secondly, your pets are family, too. If you have pets, find and comfort them. 

Third, Contact your insurance company right away. They'll tell you the next steps. Normally, that means giving us a call. 

 SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Exit a Fire

3/23/2017 (Permalink)

Thanks to NFPA, we've got some great advice to give you on exiting a fire. 

First, get the family together and make a plan. Next, choose an outdoor meeting place so that you can all end up in the same place safely. Go ahead and double check that your street number in visible- if not, take a Saturday morning to paint it on to ensure that emergency personnel can find your home. Practice your drill and take it seriously to ensure that everyone understands the plan that you first devised. If somebody in the family isn't easily awoken by the fire alarm, make sure somebody is assigned with the task to wake them up in the event of a fire. Lastly, get out safely. Your home can be replaced, your family can't. Let us help you put the pieces back together. Give us a call after your fire (big or small). 

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

After Fire Tips

7/5/2016 (Permalink)

We're locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• 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 VERY heavy. Be careful!

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (334) 298-8252

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 light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Put a Lid on It

6/29/2016 (Permalink)

Help "put a lid" on stove top fires by remembering the simple safety tips that were given!

    See that picture to the right? That’s a picture from one of our local jobs! Unfortunately, it happens all too often. Some, not all, of these can be prevented and we are here to tell you how.  In most cases, stove top fires occur when cooking oil gets too hot.  That temperature varies from product to product.  Cooking oils can ignite from 520°F up to 670°F. 

      Here is what to do if and when that happens:

• Call 911. They don’t mind showing up to a house when the fire is already out but when home fires occur, every second counts!
• Fire is a rapid oxidation reaction.  If you remove oxygen, that reaction stops.  So put a lid on your cooking.  It may take a minute, but that one simple action can sometimes be all it takes to stop a stove top fire.  If you don’t have a lid for that pot or pan, try sliding a cookie sheet over it.
• Remember, the fire occurred because the oil reached the temperature in which it ignites at. The next stop is to turn off the heat to try.
• Do not pour water on the burning pot and do not try to move it to a different location.
• If the steps above do not help put out the fire, use your kitchen fire extinguisher to try and put out the fire and wait in a safe area for the fire department to arrive.

     Just remember to use caution. Don’t try and turn up the heat to get your pot to heat up faster- because you may forget to turn it back down. Stay around the stove and keep an eye on your cooking. In the event that a fire isn’t prevented and causes any damage, we are here to help make your disaster “Like it never even happened!”

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Smokewebs

6/29/2016 (Permalink)

A great example of a smoke web from one of our jobs!

     Your first thought when you look at the picture on the left may be “oh, those are cobwebs” but it is actually something that we refer to as smoke webs, soot webs, or even soot tags! That is a picture from a home that we visited where the smoke webs appeared in the same room as where the fire started.

     With a quick Google search, you can read about the science behind it but we will save you the search. In short, it’s when plastics burn, the smoke carries a stronger charge than when wood, cotton or paper burns. Sometimes, this causes smoke residue to form the smoke webs. Depending on what exactly the webs are made of, they can be sticky, smeary, and more difficult to clean. Don’t worry. We are here to help! 

Don't forget to like us on Facebook here!

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!

Firework Safety for Independence Day

6/28/2016 (Permalink)

Happy Independence Day from your friends here at SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee / SERVPRO of Lee County

    With the Fourth of July approaching, we figured that we should review fireworks safety.  The estimated annual cost of fireworks-related injuries is $100 million. Fireworks-related fires have caused at least $15 to $20 million in property loss each year in the past decade.

    Fireworks are beautiful to watch but here are a few simple rules to keep in mind:

• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before purchasing them.
• Never try to re-light a dud and always light one at a time (and remember, stand back)
• Although, this may seem like common sense, statistics say that this reminder is needed- use fireworks outside only
• ALWAYS supervise both children and pets when they are in a close proximity to the area in which the fireworks are being lit
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks. Always buy from a trusted fireworks distributer.

    And last, but not least, while keeping safety rules in mind, don't forget to have fun! Enjoy the long weekend.

SERVPRO of Phenix City, Eufaula and Tuskegee is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (334)-298-8252!