Electrical Safety

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Consumer electronic products are more prevalent than ever. Research indicates that the average household owns more than twenty-five consumer electronic products. With all of today’s technology, it can prove challenging to safely maintain power to all of our electronic devices. Electrical outlets are easy to overload and as a result, may become hazardous. While adding a power strip or extension cord seems like an easy solution to a lack of electrical outlets, the wiring in some buildings often isn’t capable of supporting too many high-powered electronic appliances.

Older office buildings and homes, in particular, often suffer from lack of electrical outlets. The temptation is to simply add a power strip or plug in an extension cord from across the room. Even in newer office buildings and homes, it can be all too easy to overload a single outlet with power hungry machines such as computers, printers, scanners and monitors.

When an employee or resident overloads an electrical outlet, that means more current is running through the outlet than it can handle. This causes the outlet to overheat, which may lead to an electrical fire. According to a 2008 National Fire Protection Association study, electrical distribution and lighting equipment are involved in more than 24,000 home structure fires per year. These fires resulted in an average of 320 deaths per year and an estimated $700 million in property damage per year.

If an electrical fire should occur, get safely away from the fire and call your fire department. If you choose to use an extinguisher on the fire, never let the fire get between you and a safe exit, and never let use water to extinguish an electrical fire. Class C fire extinguishers use a non-conductive extinguishing agent and should not cause electrical shock.

To help prevent this and other electrical hazards, refer to the list below (provided by Electrical Safety Foundation International).

• If you must use a power strip, use a name brand product from a reputable retailer. Low-quality or counterfeit power strips may contain wiring that isn’t adequate to carry the load.
• Place power strips where there is plenty of air circulation to disperse the heat.
• Never attempt to plug grounded (three-pronged) cords into an ungrounded (two-pronged) outlet.
• Do not bind, kink or know electrical cords.

Safe Home Heating

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

The change in season means an increase in the use of supplemental home heating, and an increase in home heating fires.  An October 2013 report from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) using date from 2007-2011 reveals some sobering statistics:

• Space heaters accounted for 33% of home heating fires and 81% of home heating deaths.

• The leading factor contributing in home heating fires was failure to clean (primarily creosote) from solid-fueled heating equipment, primarily chimneys.

• The leading factor contributing to ignition in 53% of fatal home heating fires was having flammable items too close to heating equipment.

With these statistics in mind, here are some tips for safe home heating:

Fireplaces:

• Always use protective screens to keep sparks and embers inside the firebox.

• Ensure the air inlet is free from debris and obstructions.

• Keep combustible decorations or furniture away from heat source.

• Burn only seasoned wood, never rubbish or scraps of treated lumber.

Woodstoves:

• Check the iron and steel components for cracks or degradation from the fire's heat and replace those that are bad.

• Close a dollar bill in the door at various spots around the frame.  If you can pull it out easily the gaskets are won and should be changed.

• Set woodstoves on hearth rugs made of spark resistant material.

Space Heaters:

• Plug heaters directly into a wall socket and not into extension cords.

• Unplug heaters when they are not in use.

• Do not place heaters in walkways or in locations where they could be easily knocked over and ensure heaters are equipped with a tip-over switch.

• Keep clothing, furniture, draperies, paper and other items at least three feet away from the space heater.

• Use only electric heaters equipped with a thermostat or an automatic shut off switch.

• Do not hide cords under rugs or carpets.  Placing anything on top of the cord could cause the cord to overheat, and can cause a fire.

• Leave appropriate and recommended amount of space surrounding a space heater.

The trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest are here to help with any of your fire cleaning and restoration needs.

If you have questions or need help, please call us 24x7 at 402-408-0134

Bathroom Appliances Can Cause Fires

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Bathrooms should have specialized outlets that trip a tiny built-in breaker should a shock hazard develop. These protect people if an appliance should ever get wet by either water splashed on it or through accidental submersion in a sink or tub. Problems can still happen if someone uses one of these electrical items later because water can corrode internal components and cause them to get too hot.

Using curling irons or hair dryers with corroded contacts can put your Omaha home in danger, melting plastic can ignite and help spread and strengthen any flames, helping the fire get around the room. Shower curtains can become a path to the ceiling, leaving dense layers of blackened soot. Residents with this kind of damage need professionals like the ones at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to get such disasters mitigated, and the area restored "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has extensively learned how to clean up such areas. Mitigation includes discerning between truly damaged materials that require removal and replacements and those that we can revitalize, saving our customers as much as possible while restoring their property to a safe, livable condition again.

We use several different tools to clean surfaces after fire damage compromises their appearance. Dry sponges that pull soot off mirrors and fixtures protect them from the fine lines that ruin the sheen and make achieving a shiny appearance impossible. Waiting to remove soot can leave property owners wanting to replace such items, resulting in lost rental deposits or additional costs related to court-awarded damages. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest wants to help you recover completely from the consequences of fire damage and with as little stress as possible.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest's goal is to provide all our customers with a thorough job, from start to finish, including odor control. Our team knows how to do the work efficiently, letting you put the fire damage behind you so you can get back to your normal activities. Contact SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134

Helpful Tips to Prevent a House Fire

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

House fires kill and injure many every year, while leaving many without their home, and valuable memories and possessions. Fire prevention is more important than many realize. 

Ways to Prevent House Fires

-Establish an emergency plan with fire routes. 

-Test all smoke alarms in your home.

-Teach your children fire safety. 

-Perform home maintenance consistently.

- Use candles with caution.

-Don't leave food cooking unattended.

- Store flammables safely.

- Know where the fire extinguishers are and how to use them. 

- Check all electrical cords in your home. If wires are frayed, throw it away.

Fire preparation is an important part of safeguarding your home and your family. Knowing not only how to prevent a fire but also how to escape it and get quick fire cleanup is essential.

Using Ozone for Odor Removal

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Any home or business owner that has had to face the after math of fire, knows the lingering odor of smoke is unpleasant. A simple surface clean doesn't always get rid of the odor. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County has state-of-the-art equipment to remediate fire and smoke damage.

What is Ozone? Ozone is a molecule composed of three atoms of oxygen. The oxygen that we breath contains two atoms of energy. The third atom of oxygen can detach and reattach to molecules of other substances, which changes their chemical composition. This machine oxidizes and removes odor. These machine are not limited to odors from smoke. They can be helpful in many odorous situations. 

Our IICRC certified techs are highly trained in smoke and odor removal. For situations that may seem impossible to remove the odor, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County. 

SERVPRO Can Help Restore Your Contents After a Fire

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know electronics can be cleaned using an ultrasonic system? SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County understands that it's important to get your contents cleaned to pre-fire damage, and back to the homeowner as quickly as possible. SERVPRO has invested in a state-of-the-art ultrasonic system. 

HOW IT WORKS: Bubbles are created by sounds waves as the waves move through the water. These bubbles implode as fast as they are created, causing tremendous vacuum energy. It's the combination of heat and pressure that gives the ultrasonic it's amazing cleaning power. 

FAST & EFFICIENT: Ultrasonic cleaning can be done in 30 seconds to a few minutes. A tiny pressure wave caused by the bubbles imploding, reaches into nooks and crannies of delicate items, and breaks up the dirt and contaminants. This process is more efficient than cleaning by hand. 

This machine can clean computers, coffee makers, electrical cord, lamps, fans, consoles, blinds, filters, figurine, stuffed animals, phones, TV's and so much more. This process can quickly clean your contents after a fire damage, and restore you property to pre-fire conditions. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your fire restoration needs. 

Teaching Kids Fire Safety is Essential

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

It's essential to teach our kids fire safety and prevention.

Did you know that the US Fire Administration estimates 300 deaths and $280 million dollars in property damage is destroyed each year as a result of children playing with fire? Adults generally know quite a bit about preventing fires, and fire safety, but what about our children? It's essential to teach our kids fire safety and prevention.

1. Prevent Fires- Keep all lighters, matches and other ignitable substances out the reach of children. Use flame-less candles to prevent the risk of fire. Keep children away from the stove while cooking. 

2. Smoke Alarms- Install smoke alarms throughout your home. Make sure to check the batteries often. Educate your children on smoke alarms, and what to do when they hear one. 

3. Fire Escape Plan- Make an escape plan for your home. Practice the fire plan with all family members at least twice a year.

4. Get Out & Stay Out- Make sure children know the exit plan, and to stay outside. Everyone needs to know how to call 9-1-1.  

Educating your children on fire safety is one of the best methods of preventing a household fire.

How to Prevent a House Fire

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know working smoke alarms can double your chances of surviving a house fire? Here are a few helpful tips in preventing house fires. 

SMOKE ALARMS

Install smoke alarms in your home. It is essential to have smoke alarms appropriately placed throughout the house. Smoke alarms should be located in every bedroom, in hallways, and on every level of the house. It is important they are at least 10 feet away from your stove and other cooking appliances. It is just as important that you test the alarms regularly and change the batteries annually. 

FIRE ESCAPE PLAN

Make a fire escape plan, and practice the plan with all family members. Ensure that family members know how to exit all the rooms in the house, and designate a meeting place outside. Teach your children about fire safety.

APPLIANCE SAFETY

Stay in the kitchen if you are frying or broiling food. If you need to leave the kitchen, make sure to shut off the stove. Keep children and pets away from cooking surfaces. Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately. 

STORE FLAMMABLES PROPERLY

Store flammables in a cool location and out of reach. Also, ensure all lighters, matches, and chemicals are stored properly. 

If there is fire, remember: Get out, stay out, and call for help. 

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County's highly trained techs are available 24/7/365 to help with any fire restoration needs. We take pride in making any fire damage "Like it never even happened." 402-408-0134

The Flames are Out, but Odor Remains

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire in your home or business, it can be overwhelming. Fires happen quickly, but the smell of the fire in your home or business can last for weeks. Odor removal is an often overlooked, but is a significant aspect of the fire restoration services that SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County offers.

Our highly trained team of technicians has state-of-the-art equipment for removing foul smells from a residence or business. Since each smoke and fire damage situation is different, each one requires a unique solution. The professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County for your fire damage repair in Omaha, NE and surrounding communities. Let our crew make your fire damage, "Like it never even happened." 402-408-0134

Fire Damage in Omaha, NE

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County offers fire, smoke, and soot restoration services?

Structural Cleaning: After a smoke or fire damage, your home's ceilings, walls, and floors will need a deep clean. SERVPRO's highly trained techs have the right equipment and products to start to restore your home to pre-damage conditions. 

Content Cleaning: All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County has invested in a state-of-the-art ultrasonic cleaning system. This system aids in restoring many items instead of replacing. This drastically cuts down on cleaning time, and returns valued possessions to homeowners quickly. All restorables will be cleaned to pre-damage conditions. 

Deodorization: SERVPRO provides specialized services to rid your home of any odor following a fire. Our highly trained techs will seek out the source of the odor and eliminate them. There are many different methods that may be used to remediate an odor following a fire. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County to make your fire damage "Like it never even happened." 402-408-0134

The Flames Are Out, but The Odor Remains

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire in your home, you quickly start to go through your home assessing the damage. It can be overwhelming. Fires happen quickly, but the smell of the fire in your home can last for weeks. Odor removal is an often overlooked, but significant aspect of the fire restoration services that SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest offers.

While our SERVPRO team is well educated in restoration techniques and cleaning processes to restore areas of your home that have been damaged aesthetically by an unexpected fire, the lingering odor that remains is often something that homeowners are less concerned with initially. It becomes more and more problematic as the home is being restored, but the smoke and charring scent of the fire’s destruction remains as powerful as ever.

Fortunately, our highly trained team of technicians has state-of-the-art equipment for removing foul smells from a residence or business. Deodorizing happens through the use of dense fogging machines. The machines are capable of producing a heavy chemical fog that is sprayed throughout the entire affected area, ensuring that all of the affected structure and contents are also affected by the fog.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134. If your home or business has been affected by fire damage our team is here to help! We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, including holidays.

Using Ozone for Odor Removal

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

Using an ozone is a quick and effective method to remove unwanted odors.

Any home or business owner that has had to face the after math of fire, knows the lingering odor of smoke is unpleasant. A simple surface clean doesn't always get rid of the odor. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County has state-of-the-art equipment to remediate fire and smoke damage.

What is Ozone? Ozone is a molecule composed of three atoms of oxygen. The oxygen that we breath contains two atoms of energy. The third atom of oxygen can detach and reattach to molecules of other substances, which changes their chemical composition. This machine oxidizes and removes odor. These machine are not limited to odors from smoke. They can be helpful in many odorous situations. 

Our IICRC certified techs are highly trained in smoke and odor removal. For situations that may seem impossible to remove the odor, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County. 

Teaching Kids Fire Safety is Essential

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

Educating your children on fire safety is one of the best methods of preventing a household fire.

Did you know that the US Fire Administration estimates 300 deaths and $280 million dollars in property damage is destroyed each year as a result of children playing with fire? Adults generally know quite a bit about preventing fires, and fire safety, but what about our children? It's essential to teach our kids fire safety and prevention.

1. Prevent Fires- Keep all lighters, matches and other ignitable substances out the reach of children. Use flame-less candles to prevent the risk of fire. Keep children away from the stove while cooking. 

2. Smoke Alarms- Install smoke alarms throughout your home. Make sure to check the batteries often. Educate your children on smoke alarms, and what to do when they hear one. 

3. Fire Escape Plan- Make an escape plan for your home. Practice the fire plan with all family members at least twice a year.

4. Get Out & Stay Out- Make sure children know the exit plan, and to stay outside. Everyone needs to know how to call 9-1-1.  

Educating your children on fire safety is one of the best methods of preventing a household fire.

SERVPRO Can Help Restore Your Contents After a Fire

9/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's Ultrasonic Cleaning System Can Restore Your Contents After Fire Damage in Omaha, NE

Did you know electronics can be cleaned using an ultrasonic system? SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County understands that it's important to get your contents cleaned to pre-fire damage, and back to the homeowner as quickly as possible. SERVPRO has invested in a state-of-the-art ultrasonic system. 

HOW IT WORKS: Bubbles are created by sounds waves as the waves move through the water. These bubbles implode as fast as they are created, causing tremendous vacuum energy. It's the combination of heat and pressure that gives the ultrasonic it's amazing cleaning power. 

FAST & EFFICIENT: Ultrasonic cleaning can be done in 30 seconds to a few minutes. A tiny pressure wave caused by the bubbles imploding, reaches into nooks and crannies of delicate items, and breaks up the dirt and contaminants. This process is more efficient than cleaning by hand. 

This machine can clean computers, coffee makers, electrical cord, lamps, fans, consoles, blinds, filters, figurine, stuffed animals, phones, TV's and so much more. This process can quickly clean your contents after a fire damage, and restore you property to pre-fire conditions. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County for all your fire restoration needs. 

The Flames Are Out, but The Odor Remains

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Our highly trained team of technicians has state-of-the-art equipment for removing foul smells from a residence or business.

After a fire in your home or business, it can be overwhelming. Fires happen quickly, but the smell of the fire in your home or business can last for weeks. Odor removal is an often overlooked, but is a significant aspect of the fire restoration services that SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County offers.

Our highly trained team of technicians has state-of-the-art equipment for removing foul smells from a residence or business. Since each smoke and fire damage situation is different, each one requires a unique solution. The professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and Omaha West/Saunders County for your fire damage repair in Omaha, NE and surrounding communities. Let our crew make your fire damage, "Like it never even happened." 402-408-0134

Home Fire Prevention Tips

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

No one can predict when a disaster will strike. The best tip is to be prepared.

Did you know working smoke alarms can double your chances of surviving a house fire? Here are a few helpful tips in preventing house fires. 

SMOKE ALARMS

Install smoke alarms in your home. It is essential to have smoke alarms appropriately placed throughout the house. Smoke alarms should be located in every bedroom, in hallways, and on every level of the house. It is important they are at least 10 feet away from your stove and other cooking appliances. It is just as important that you test the alarms regularly and change the batteries annually. 

FIRE ESCAPE PLAN

Make a fire escape plan, and practice the plan with all family members. Ensure that family members know how to exit all the rooms in the house, and designate a meeting place outside. Teach your children about fire safety.

APPLIANCE SAFETY

Stay in the kitchen if you are frying or broiling food. If you need to leave the kitchen, make sure to shut off the stove. Keep children and pets away from cooking surfaces. Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately. 

STORE FLAMMABLES PROPERLY

Store flammables in a cool location and out of reach. Also, ensure all lighters, matches, and chemicals are stored properly. 

If there is fire, remember: Get out, stay out, and call for help. 

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County's highly trained techs are available 24/7/365 to help with any fire restoration needs. We take pride in making any fire damage "Like it never even happened." 402-408-0134

Fire Damage in Omaha, NE

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County offers fire, smoke, and soot restoration services?

Structural Cleaning: After a smoke or fire damage, your home's ceilings, walls, and floors will need a deep clean. SERVPRO's highly trained techs have the right equipment and products to start to restore your home to pre-damage conditions. 

Content Cleaning: All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County has invested in a state-of-the-art ultrasonic cleaning system. This system aids in restoring many items instead of replacing. This drastically cuts down on cleaning time, and returns valued possessions to homeowners quickly. All restorables will be cleaned to pre-damage conditions. 

Deodorization: SERVPRO provides specialized services to rid your home of any odor following a fire. Our highly trained techs will seek out the source of the odor and eliminate them. There are many different methods that may be used to remediate an odor following a fire. 

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County to make your fire damage "Like it never even happened." 402-408-0134

Are you in need of Fire Damage Repair in Omaha, NE?

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is here to help with your fire damage restoration needs.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/Saunders County understands the feeling of stress that comes with experiencing a fire in your Omaha home. Our highly trained team is Here to Help you from start to finish. Whether it is cleaning your home or taking care of your belongings, you can trust us to help make your fire damage "Like it never even happened."

Our team is ready 24/7/365 to quickly respond and start assessing the damages left behind after a fire. After a fire, you'll likely experience fire, smoke, and soot damage, as well as water damage. Once the initial walk through has been completed, our SERVPRO team will begin to save and restore all that can be saved. 

Our SERVPRO team is always here and ready to help!

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest & Omaha West/ Saunders County 402-408-0134. 

The Fire Damage Process

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage can be scary, Let SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest help!

Check out this awesome website from the U.S. Fire Administration:  https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/winter.html it has some statistics regarding fires in the home. 

When various materials burn, the soot and residue they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest specializes in fire restoration and will restore your home or business to pre-fire condition.

The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “usual” fire damage emergency:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest. You will be asked questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Our highly trained team will carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action. 

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

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

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

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

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

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

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

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

Step 7: Restoration

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

Fire damage can be devastating for you and your family or your business. Feelings of confusion and stress are common, and you need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We will always treat your family with the greatest empathy and respect, and we’ll treat your property with great care.

After any fire damage occurs, above all your safety is the most important thing to consider. Let SERVPRO help with your fire damage needs today, 24/7 including holidays 402-408-0134.

Bathroom Appliances Can Lead to Fire Damage!

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

Make sure your bathroom appliances are unplugged between uses to prevent risk of fire damage.

Bathrooms should have specialized outlets that trip a tiny built-in breaker should a shock hazard develop. These protect people if an appliance should ever get wet by either water splashed on it or through accidental submersion in a sink or tub. Problems can still happen if someone uses one of these electrical items later because water can corrode internal components and cause them to get too hot.

Using curling irons or hair dryers with corroded contacts can put your Omaha home in danger, melting plastic can ignite and help spread and strengthen any flames, helping the fire get around the room. Shower curtains can become a path to the ceiling, leaving dense layers of blackened soot. Residents with this kind of damage need professionals like the ones at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest to get such disasters mitigated, and the area restored "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest has extensively learned how to clean up such areas. Mitigation includes discerning between truly damaged materials that require removal and replacements and those that we can revitalize, saving our customers as much as possible while restoring their property to a safe, livable condition again.

We use several different tools to clean surfaces after fire damage compromises their appearance. Dry sponges that pull soot off mirrors and fixtures protect them from the fine lines that ruin the sheen and make achieving a shiny appearance impossible. Waiting to remove soot can leave property owners wanting to replace such items, resulting in lost rental deposits or additional costs related to court-awarded damages. SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest wants to help you recover completely from the consequences of fire damage and with as little stress as possible.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest's goal is to provide all our customers with a thorough job, from start to finish, including odor control. Our team knows how to do the work efficiently, letting you put the fire damage behind you so you can get back to your normal activities. Contact SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134

Fire Odor--SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest Can Make it go Away!

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

Small fire quickly extinguished in Omaha home

After a fire in your home, you quickly start to go through your home assessing the damage. It can be overwhelming. Fires happen quickly, but the smell of the fire in your home can last for weeks. Odor removal is an often overlooked, but significant aspect of the fire restoration services that SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest offers.

While our SERVPRO team is well educated in restoration techniques and cleaning processes to restore areas of your home that have been damaged aesthetically by an unexpected fire, the lingering odor that remains is often something that homeowners are less concerned with initially. It becomes more and more problematic as the home is being restored, but the smoke and charring scent of the fire’s destruction remains as powerful as ever.

Fortunately, our highly trained team of technicians has state-of-the-art equipment for removing foul smells from a residence or business. Deodorizing happens through the use of dense fogging machines. The machines are capable of producing a heavy chemical fog that is sprayed throughout the entire affected area, ensuring that all of the affected structure and contents are also affected by the fog.

Call SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest today at 402-408-0134. If your home or business has been affected by fire damage our team is here to help! We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, including holidays.

What Happens After Fire Damage to Your Home?

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

Follow these steps after being faced with fire damage

Fire damage can be devastating. As a homeowner, the steps you take after fire occurs can determine the speed at which your home will be restored. Follow these steps after you suffer through a fire in your home, to make it as easy as possible after a difficult time: 

1. Call your insurance agent immediately. 

2. Contact a fire restoration company. Immediately after a fire, you’ll need to clean up any soot or water damage. Sometimes windows will need boarding up and other construction may need to be conducted. It is important to hire a reputable service to deal with these issues. Contact SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest and let us know about the fire. Once contacted we will send a project manager to your home to assess the damages and work with you and your insurance carrier to get your home back to preloss condition. 

3. Separate damaged property from undamaged property. The insurance company will need a detailed inventory list from you after they inspect the loss. Separating your damaged property from your undamaged property will make it easier for you to make a list of your damaged items.

4. Save undamaged property from further destruction. Any items that are not damaged should be put in a safe place, even if it means putting them in storage. 

5. Cooperate fully with the insurance company’s investigation. When a fire claim is reported to an insurance company, it is given top priority. Usually the adjusters come out to see the loss within 24 to 48 hours. 

6. Find somewhere to stay if you can’t live in your home. Most homeowner’s policies include “Loss of Use or Loss of Rents” coverage, which will pay for the food, clothing, and shelter that you and your family may need for a specified period of time. 

Helpful Tips to Prevent a House Fire

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Fires are preventable. Fire preparedness is an essential part of protecting your home and family.

House fires kill and injure many every year, while leaving many without their home, and valuable memories and possessions. Fire prevention is more important than many realize. 

Ways to Prevent House Fires

-Establish an emergency plan with fire routes. 

-Test all smoke alarms in your home.

-Teach your children fire safety. 

-Perform home maintenance consistently.

- Use candles with caution.

-Don't leave food cooking unattended.

- Store flammables safely.

- Know where the fire extinguishers are and how to use them. 

- Check all electrical cords in your home. If wires are frayed, throw it away.

Fire preparation is an important part of safeguarding your home and your family. Knowing not only how to prevent a fire but also how to escape it and get quick fire cleanup is essential.

Understanding Fire Restoration

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Soot damage can be extremely harmful to your lungs and equally as difficult to clean up. Call the restoration team at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest.

We have all heard that soot is bad for us.  It contains a variety of toxic chemical compounds that are harmful to respiratory systems of those coming in prolonged contact with the particles.  Soot damage from a fire can often be quite time consuming and tricky to clean up.   After having worked a few fire restoration jobs myself I understood firsthand how much work goes into the restoration process. 

After a fire, soot spreads throughout far reaches to a home or business due to the smaller particles.  While the fire may be contained to the kitchen, soot can travel to multiple floors or rooms which increases the time for cleanup. 

The first restoration job I was a part of was a small kitchen fire in a one-story home.  The fire was contained to the kitchen and truly the damage was not bad.  The soot however traveled into 3 other rooms in the home, one being on the other side of the house.  In addition to cleaning the walls and surfaces from ceiling to floor, we cleaned kitchen cabinets inside & out, cleaned all toys individually, gathers items for dry cleaning, cleaned furniture, and had the HVAC system thoroughly cleaned. 

For even a small job, our crew of 3 worked for 2 days to get the family back into their home.  Depending on the scope of the job, some can take longer and require more in-depth cleaning and/or reconstruction.

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest is trained in IICRC restoration standards for fire restoration.  We pride ourselves on being quite thorough when completing a job, ensuring you and your family forget the disaster occurred and your home or business look Like it never even happened. 

If disaster strikes, call the team that’s faster to any disaster in Southwest Omaha 402-408-0134!

Smoke Odor in Omaha From Weekend Fires

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

This picture was taken from 36th street and Hwy 370 (while we wre waiting at a red light, of course). The smoke was visible from several miles away.

Two separate fires on Sunday sent a large plume of smoke billowing over the Omaha Metro area on Sunday afternoon and evening.  By Monday morning, a haze fell low over much of the area and my north Bellevue neighborhood had a pungent smoke odor.  I had my car vents on "outside air", pulling the stench into my car as I drove to work this morning.  Fortunately, I work for a company that can help get rid of the odor in my car.

We have fielded a few calls already from home and business owners asking for assistance in deodorizing their properties.

If your home or business has experienced smoke damage or you would like our help with the smoke odor, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha SW at 402-408-0134. Our experienced crews are always here to help.

Check out this story on the Omaha World Herald website to read more about the fires.

Electrical Safety in the Office and at Home.

9/11/2017 (Permalink)

No one ever wants to deal with the aftermath of a fire, so take these precautions to prevent dealing with a devastating loss.

Consumer electronic products are more prevalent than ever. Research indicates that the average household owns more than twenty-five consumer electronic products. With all of today’s technology, it can prove challenging to safely maintain power to all of our electronic devices. Electrical outlets are easy to overload and as a result, may become hazardous. While adding a power strip or extension cord seems like an easy solution to a lack of electrical outlets, the wiring in some buildings often isn’t capable of supporting too many high-powered electronic appliances.

Older office buildings and homes, in particular, often suffer from lack of electrical outlets. The temptation is to simply add a power strip or plug in an extension cord from across the room. Even in newer office buildings and homes, it can be all too easy to overload a single outlet with power hungry machines such as computers, printers, scanners and monitors.

When an employee or resident overloads an electrical outlet, that means more current is running through the outlet than it can handle. This causes the outlet to overheat, which may lead to an electrical fire. According to a 2008 National Fire Protection Association study, electrical distribution and lighting equipment are involved in more than 24,000 home structure fires per year. These fires resulted in an average of 320 deaths per year and an estimated $700 million in property damage per year.

If an electrical fire should occur, get safely away from the fire and call your fire department. If you choose to use an extinguisher on the fire, never let the fire get between you and a safe exit, and never let use water to extinguish an electrical fire. Class C fire extinguishers use a non-conductive extinguishing agent and should not cause electrical shock.

To help prevent this and other electrical hazards, refer to the list below (provided by Electrical Safety Foundation International).

• If you must use a power strip, use a name brand product from a reputable retailer. Low-quality or counterfeit power strips may contain wiring that isn’t adequate to carry the load.
• Place power strips where there is plenty of air circulation to disperse the heat.
• Never attempt to plug grounded (three-pronged) cords into an ungrounded (two-pronged) outlet.
• Do not bind, kink or know electrical cords.

Using Portable Fire Extinguishers

1/23/2017 (Permalink)

Portable fire extinguishers can be life and property saving tools when used correctly.  In order to operate an extinguisher, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests remembering the word PASS:

• Pull the pin.  Hold the nozzle pointing away from you         and release the locking mechanism.


• Aim low.  Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.


• Squeeze the level slowly and evenly.


• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with then before a fire breaks out.  Remember, extinguishers do have limitations.  It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your facility.  To find more information on choosing the appropriate class of extinguisher, please visit the NFPA website at www.nfpa.org.

We are here to help 24x7.  Call us at 402-408-0134

Home Heating Fire Safety in Omaha

12/13/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest cleaned up after this Omaha-Area heating fire.

The change in season means an increase in the use of supplemental home heating, and an increase in home heating fires.  An October 2013 report from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) using date from 2007-2011 reveals some sobering statistics:

• Space heaters accounted for 33% of home heating fires and 81% of home heating deaths.


• The leading factor contributing in home heating fires was failure to clean (primarily creosote) from solid-fueled heating equipment, primarily chimneys.


• The leading factor contributing to ignition in 53% of fatal home heating fires was having flammable items too close to heating equipment.

With these statistics in mind, here are some tips for safe home heating:

Fireplaces:

• Always use protective screens to keep sparks and embers inside the firebox.


• Ensure the air inlet is free from debris and obstructions.


• Keep combustible decorations or furniture away from heat source.


• Burn only seasoned wood, never rubbish or scraps of treated lumber.

Woodstoves:

• Check the iron and steel components for cracks or degradation from the fire's heat and replace those that are bad.


• Close a dollar bill in the door at various spots around the frame.  If you can pull it out easily the gaskets are won and should be changed.


• Set woodstoves on hearth rugs made of spark resistant material.

Space Heaters:

• Plug heaters directly into a wall socket and not into extension cords.


• Unplug heaters when they are not in use.


• Do not place heaters in walkways or in locations where they could be easily knocked over and ensure heaters are equipped with a tip-over switch.


• Keep clothing, furniture, draperies, paper and other items at least three feet away from the space heater.


• Use only electric heaters equipped with a thermostat or an automatic shut off switch.


• Do not hide cords under rugs or carpets.  Placing anything on top of the cord could cause the cord to overheat, and can cause a fire.


• Leave appropriate and recommended amount of space surrounding a space heater.

The trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Omaha Southwest hope you have a safe and happy Christmas season.

If you have questions or need help, please call us 24x7 at 402-408-0134