Recent Fire Damage Posts

Grill Safely: Top Tips to Avoid Fires When Grilling

8/3/2023 (Permalink)

Grilling is an enjoyable outdoor activity that brings family and friends together to share sizzling hot meals. While it's a fun pastime, it can pose significant fire hazards if not done safely. Grilling fires can start and spread quickly due to factors such as grease buildup, overheating, and improper storage. In this blog post, we will discuss safety measures that can help you avoid fires when grilling.

Location

Choose an appropriate location for your grill that is away from combustible materials like dry leaves, branches, and structures. Choose a flat, stable surface that can withstand the weight of the grill and will not tip over easily.

Clean your grill before and after each use to remove leftover grease and food particles that can start fires. If left uncleaned, grease can accumulate and reach high temperatures during cooking, causing flare-ups and fires.

Proper storage

Store your propane tanks away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and high traffic areas. Keep them in an upright position, secured tightly, and away from flammable materials.

Use a long spatula and tongs to turn the food instead of piercing it with a fork. Perforating the meat can cause the juices to leak onto the hot coals, resulting in flare-ups and potential fires.

Never leave the grill unattended. Grilling requires constant attention, so never leave the grill unattended. Stay close to the grill and keep children and pets away from the grill area.

Be prepared

Always have a fire extinguisher, baking soda, or a bucket of sand nearby in case of a fire. Never use water to put out a grill fire that started due to grease buildup as it can cause the flames to spread. Before turning on the gas grill, check the hoses regularly for leaks and any worn or damaged areas that can lead to leaks. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the gas immediately, and contact a professional for a repair or replacement. Preheat the grill before cooking, and avoid exposing the food to high heat initially. The flames can char the food or ignite flare-ups. Cook the food slowly and naturally to avoid fires.

In conclusion, grilling is a great outdoor activity that brings family and friends together. However, it's critical to follow safety measures to avoid fires. Choosing an appropriate location, cleaning the grill regularly, proper storage, appropriate tools, not leaving the grill unattended, being prepared, checking for leaks and wear, and cooking slowly and steadily are some of the safety measures you can take. By practicing safe grilling, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable time with your delicious grilled meals without any mishaps.

Steps to Take When Filing a Claim After a Fire: A Guide to Insurance Recovery

4/30/2023 (Permalink)

A fire can be a traumatic and devastating experience, leaving your property damaged or destroyed. After a fire, it's important to file a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible to start the process of getting the help and compensation you need to rebuild and recover. Here's what you need to know about filing a claim after a fire.

Contact Your Insurance Company

The first step in filing a claim after a fire is to contact your insurance company. Most insurance policies require that you report any damage or loss to your property within a certain time frame, so it's important to act quickly. Your insurance company will likely assign an adjuster to assess the damage and determine the coverage amount.

Document the Damage

Before you start cleaning up or making any repairs, it's important to document the damage to your property. Take photos and videos of the damage from multiple angles, and make a list of all damaged or destroyed items. This documentation will help support your claim and ensure that you receive the compensation you're entitled to.

Secure Your Property

After a fire, your property may be vulnerable to further damage or theft. If possible, take steps to secure your property and prevent further damage. This could include boarding up windows and doors, removing debris, and hiring a security service to watch your property.

Keep Track of Expenses

If you're forced to relocate after a fire, keep track of any expenses you incur, such as temporary housing, meals, and transportation. Your insurance policy may cover some or all of these expenses, so it's important to keep accurate records.

Work with Your Adjuster

Your insurance adjuster will play a key role in the claims process. Be sure to provide them with all the necessary documentation and information, and work with them to understand the coverage and compensation you're entitled to. If you disagree with their assessment or settlement offer, you can appeal or negotiate for a better outcome.

Don't Wait to File

Finally, it's important to file your claim as soon as possible after a fire. The longer you wait, the harder it may be to document the damage and secure the compensation you need. If you have any questions or concerns about the claims process, don't hesitate to reach out to your insurance company or a professional fire restoration service for guidance and support.

In conclusion, filing a claim after a fire can be a complex and stressful process, but taking the right steps can help ensure a smoother and more successful outcome. Remember to document the damage, secure your property, keep track of expenses, work with your adjuster, and file your claim as soon as possible. With patience and persistence, you can recover from a fire and rebuild your property and your life.

4 Things That Should Be Tossed After a Fire

7/23/2022 (Permalink)

Here Are A Few Things That You Should Always Throw Away

The aftereffects of a fire in your Meredith College, NC, leave visible and nonvisible signs that are hard to miss. While a fire damage and restoration company has the expertise to return your home and many belongings back to preloss condition.

1. Exposed Non-Perishable Food
While it might seem like sealed jars or cans of food are heat- and smoke-resistant, high heat, and fumes may be a catalyst for bacteria to be activated and spoil the food. If located near the fire, the fumes or potential chemicals used to put out the fire may also infiltrate those sealed items. If any containers show visible signs of damage they should be tossed.

2. Perishable Food
Depending on the location of the fire, the refrigerator and freezer may provide enough barrier to protect perishable items even if the power temporarily went out. Even if the refrigerator shows no visible signs, food should be discarded if the fridge or food items have a smoky or strange odor.

3. Cosmetics and Medicine
While these might not seem like items that you will have to throw away, the heat from a fire can affect the composition of the chemicals in medicines, cosmetics, and hygiene products. If stored near where the fire took place, inspect them for signs of damage. If the containers are warped or there are signs of soot, it’s best to play it safe and replace the item.

4. Burned Clothing, Bedding, Mattresses
While experts have the tools and techniques to remove smoke damage from fabrics and textiles, anything that is visibly burned or charred is not salvageable. Along with mattresses, any upholstered furniture should also be inspected. Although wood can be saved, damage to upholstery or mattress may make them unsafe for use.
Dealing with the effects of a fire can be overwhelming. It may be tough to throw away belongings, but it is always best to take the safest course of action.

Important Fire Safety Tips When Grilling

6/12/2022 (Permalink)

Outdoor cooking is a staple for many households, but unsafe grilling practices can lead to a fire. Use these helpful tips each time you grill to avoid a barbeque fire in your Wilbon, NC, home.

Understand Charcoal Grill Fire Safety

Charcoal grills are a popular choice for many outdoor barbeques but can be dangerous if not used properly. Practice the following safety protocol when using one.

Wisely use starter fluid when getting the grill warmed up
Never add charcoal fluid or flammable liquids to a fire
Allow charcoal to cool completely after grilling then dispose of in a metal container

Check Propane Grills for Gas Leaks
One of the most dangerous causes of a grill fire can be a gas leak on a propane grill. Before use, always check the gas tank hose for possible leaks.

Keep Grill Away From Flammable Structures
Keep your grill in a spot far enough away from deck railings, overhanging branches, and especially your house. Barbequing close to a house not only increases the risk of a grill fire but can cause smoke damage to the exterior, which can require repairs from a fire damage restoration company.

Keep a Watchful Eye
Your grill should never be unattended from the time you warm it up until it is shut off. Always keep a close eye on your ignited grill.

Clean Grill After Use
To avoid large flames next time you cook, be sure to efficiently clean your grill after each use. Scrape away the fat and grease residue both in the grill grates and in the tray below.
Taking all these precautions each time you fire up the barbeque can be monumental for preventing fire at your Wilbon, NC, home. Practice the right safety measures for your charcoal or gas grill, keep it a distance away from your house, and stay nearby when cooking, and clean after every use.

5 Steps Business Owners Should Complete After a Fire

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Five Steps To Take After Fire and Smoke Damage

Business owners in Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant, NC, may feel lost when fire ravages their establishment. It's essential to regain focus and swing into action, seeking appropriate assistance from insurance and fire restoration professionals. Business owners should complete the following five critical steps once the smoke and flames subside.

1. Initiate a Fire Insurance Claim

Insurance agencies prefer immediate notification after a fire, so don't wait. Owners should reach out to a local agent, opening a claim. Provide the date and time of the blaze and any documentation provided by the fire department.

2. Remain Off the Property

It's tempting to walk around inside once the sparks die out; however, the building has several hazards, such as possible breaches in structural integrity and smoke accumulation. Remain outside until fire professionals permit entry. Do not touch or clean anything.

3. Locate a Fire Restoration Company

Experts in fire remediation should evaluate the property and secure it. Request aid that day, allowing the specialists to survey the building. Place tarps over roof vulnerabilities and board up openings within the walls and doors.

4. Discuss Content Cleaning Services

Smoke and soot seep into more than the structure. They can migrate throughout the building, impacting your products, supplies and equipment. In addition, intense heat from the fire and water from the hoses may also ruin items. Have professionals assess valuables, determining whether they require water or smoke cleaning. Focus on deodorizing, drying and sanitizing methods.

5. Gather Important Documents and Belongings

After the fire department and restoration teams have safeguarded and examined the premises, go inside and collect anything of value. Focus on documentation and equipment, locating any papers your insurance may need, such as financial books and rental or mortgage agreements.
When the sparks are over, business owners in Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant, NC, should strive to seek aid quickly. Don't enter the building. Instead, reach out to your insurance agent and specialists in fire restoration, allowing them to safeguard your property and guide you through the remediation process.

3 Facts About Smoke Alarms

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

Three Important Facts About Smoke Alarms

Did you know that many Lake Johnson, NC, homes don’t have a working smoke alarm in each of their bedrooms? While newly constructed homes are required to have alarms in order to pass inspection, many older homes don’t have them. According to the National Fire Protection Association, your risk of dying in a home fire is reduced by 50% if you have functioning smoke detectors. Here are three important facts about smoke alarms.

1. Smoke Alarms Save Lives

Most people don’t anticipate being involved in a home fire. Unfortunately, home fires often happen during the night when homeowners are asleep; therefore, it’s essential to have a working smoke detector in every bedroom and outside every sleeping area. There should also be smoke alarms in the basement, even if no one sleeps downstairs. To increase your level of protection, make sure your alarms are interconnected. Therefore, if one alarm sounds then the rest will also beep.

2. Smoke Alarms Should Be Tested

Once you’ve installed a smoke alarm in every room of your home, test them each month. While new alarms should work for many years, it’s still advised to test them monthly. Simply stand on a stool or ladder and press the test button. This simple test will ensure that your smoke detectors are in good working condition.

3. Smoke Alarms Need To Be Replaced

Most homeowners are unaware that smoke detectors need to be replaced; fortunately, there is a simple way to check them. Take the alarm off of the ceiling or wall and check the manufacture date. The date will likely be located on the back of the alarm. If the manufacture date is older than 10 years, your alarm needs to be replaced. If it’s less than 10 years old, place the alarm back on the ceiling or wall.
The risk of injury and death can be greatly reduced when homeowners have a working smoke alarm in every room of their homes. If your Lake Johnson, NC, experiences any type of fire damage, fire restoration specialists are available to help.