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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts

Tucson's Battle with Wildfires: Understanding, Preventing, and Recovering from Fire Damage

11/21/2023 (Permalink)

Exterior shot of a plywood board-up. With us, you can trust it'll be "Like it never even happened."

Living in the picturesque landscapes of Tucson, AZ, we enjoy the beauty of the desert but also face unique challenges posed by nature. Wildfires, notorious in our area, are one of these challenges. As a SERVPRO® franchise, we're committed to helping our community understand, prevent, and recover from the damage caused by these infernos.

Understanding Tucson’s Wildfires

Understanding the nature of wildfires in Tucson is essential to prevention and preparedness. One of the main reasons for wildfires in our region is our dense vegetation—mainly saguaro, ocotillo, and Palo Verde—that can quickly fuel a fire. The arid climate, paired with occasional gusty winds, further escalates the situation.

Preventing Wildfires in Tucson, AZ

Prevention is key when it comes to combating wildfires. Make sure to implement the following steps:

  1. Maintain Your Landscaping: Regularly trim trees and bushes around your property. Clear dry leaves, twigs, and debris that act as wildfire fuels.
  2. Safely Dispose of Yard Waste: Instead of burning yard waste, consider alternatives like composting or curbside pick-up.
  3. Create Defensive Space: Create a 'defensive space' around your home by clearing vegetation within 30 feet of the building.

Recovering from Fire Damage with SERVPRO® in Tucson

Recovery after a wildfire is a daunting process, but our SERVPRO® team is here to help.

  1. 24/7 Emergency Service: We understand that disasters don’t wait for business hours. That's why SERVPRO of Tucson is available 24/7.
  2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment: We'll thoroughly inspect and test neighboring rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage.
  3. Water Removal and Drying: If water damage is present, we'll immediately start the water removal process and employ dehumidifiers and air movers for complete drying.
  4. Smoke and Soot Removal: Our specialized equipment, techniques, and experience ensure effective smoke and soot removal from all surfaces.
  5. Cleaning and Sanitizing: In addition to cleaning structures, we’ll ensure the restoration of your belongings with various cleaning techniques. Deodorizing and sanitizing treatments guarantee your comfort.

Remember, SERVPRO of Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley/Marana East is well-equipped to help your home or business overcome the aftermath of fire damage. With us, you can trust it'll be "Like it never even happened."

The Renter's Guide to Fire Damage: Why Renter's Insurance is a Must-Have

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

A home covered in flames. Renter's insurance offers an invaluable safety net that can ease the burden during challenging times.

As a renter, protecting your belongings and ensuring your peace of mind should be top priorities. While many renters may overlook the importance of insurance, especially for fire-related risks, understanding the significance of renter's insurance is crucial. In this blog, we'll explore why renter's insurance is a must-have for every tenant, particularly when it comes to safeguarding against fire damage. Let's dive in and discover the invaluable benefits of renter's insurance in times of unforeseen fire emergencies.

Protection for Personal Belongings

Renter's insurance offers a safety net for your personal belongings in case of fire damage. If a fire breaks out in your rental property, your furniture, electronics, clothing, and other possessions could be significantly damaged or destroyed. Renter's insurance can help cover the cost of replacing or repairing these items, sparing you from substantial financial losses.

Temporary Housing Assistance

In the aftermath of a fire incident, your rental unit may become uninhabitable. Renter's insurance typically includes coverage for additional living expenses, enabling you to secure temporary housing and maintain your standard of living while your home undergoes repairs or renovations.

Liability Coverage

Renter's insurance not only protects your belongings but also provides liability coverage. If you accidentally cause a fire in your rental property that damages the building or harms another person, you could be held financially responsible. Renter's insurance can cover legal expenses, medical bills, and property damage claims up to your policy limits, offering essential liability protection.

Peace of Mind in Unforeseen Circumstances

Fires can be unpredictable and devastating, leaving renters emotionally and financially vulnerable. Renter's insurance offers peace of mind, knowing that you have a financial safety net in case of fire-related losses. This peace of mind allows you to focus on your well-being and rebuilding your life after such an unfortunate event.

Affordable Coverage Options

Contrary to common misconceptions, renter's insurance is generally affordable, making it an accessible form of protection for tenants. The cost of renter's insurance is often far less than homeowners' insurance since it only covers the renter's belongings and liability, not the structure of the property.

Customizable Coverage

Renter's insurance policies are customizable to suit your specific needs and budget. You can select coverage limits and endorsements tailored to your belongings and the risks you want to protect against, ensuring you get the coverage that best fits your circumstances.

As a renter, fire-related risks can be daunting, but renter's insurance offers an invaluable safety net that can ease the burden during challenging times. From protecting your personal belongings to offering liability coverage and temporary housing assistance, renter's insurance is a must-have for every tenant. With affordable and customizable options, it provides peace of mind and financial protection, allowing you to enjoy your rented space without worrying about the unforeseen. Prioritize your well-being and protect what matters most with renter's insurance – a valuable investment for your security and tranquility.

Cleaning Up After a Fire: A Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Soot from Your Home in Tucson, AZ

4/27/2023 (Permalink)

Black soot on a wall. Cleaning up soot after a fire can be a daunting task, but with these steps, you can ensure that your home is safe and free of hazardous particles.

Dealing with the aftermath of a fire in your home can be overwhelming, and cleaning up soot is one of the most challenging tasks you may face. Soot is a black, powdery substance that accumulates after a fire, and it can be hazardous if not handled correctly. Here are some steps to take to clean soot in your home after a fire.

Wear Protective Gear

Before you start cleaning up soot, make sure you are wearing appropriate protective gear. This includes gloves, a mask, and goggles to protect your eyes from the fine particles.

Ventilate the Area

Open all windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate in the area. Turn on fans or use a dehumidifier to help dry out the space.

Assess the Damage

Before you start cleaning, assess the extent of the damage. If the fire was significant, you may need to call in professionals to assist with the cleanup.

Clean the Walls and Ceilings

Soot can cling to walls and ceilings, making them difficult to clean. Use a dry chemical sponge or a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove the soot. Be gentle, as scrubbing too hard can cause the soot to spread and make the situation worse.

Clean the Floors

Sweep or vacuum the floors to remove loose soot particles. Use a damp mop with a mild detergent to clean hard surfaces such as tile or linoleum. For carpets and upholstery, use a steam cleaner to remove the soot.

Clean Household Items

Soot can accumulate on household items such as furniture, curtains, and bedding. Take them outside and gently shake off any loose soot particles. Vacuum or wipe them down with a dry chemical sponge. For items that are heavily soiled, you may need to have them professionally cleaned.

Clean HVAC Systems

Soot can also accumulate in your home's HVAC system, which can cause it to circulate throughout your home. Change the filters and have your HVAC system professionally cleaned to ensure that all soot particles are removed.

Dispose of Debris

Dispose of any debris, including damaged items, that may have been contaminated with soot. Follow your local guidelines for disposing of hazardous materials.

Cleaning up soot after a fire can be a daunting task, but with these steps, you can ensure that your home is safe and free of hazardous particles. If the damage is extensive, don't hesitate to call in professionals who can assist with the cleanup. Remember to take precautions and protect yourself from any potential health hazards.

Fire Extinguisher Saves Thanksgiving Day for Oro Valley Family?

11/15/2022 (Permalink)

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

Our Northeast Tucson and Oro Valley/Marana East team wants everyone to have a safe and fire-damage-free Thanksgiving this year. Knowing how to operate a portable fire extinguisher saves lives. Here are some fire extinguisher safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Use a portable fire extinguisher when the fire is confined to a small area, such as a wastebasket, and is not growing; everyone has exited the building; the fire department has been called, and the room is not filled with smoke.

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

 Call Us Today!

Our local team in Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana East is Here to Help ® when your home or business in Oro Valley has a fire damage emergency. Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do While Waiting for Help to Arrive After a House Fire in Tucson?

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

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

Tucson residents can rely on us to be there when fire damage restoration services are required. Our Northeast Tucson and Oro Valley/Marana East teams are on call and ready to respond 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. We have established relationships with all major insurance companies and can assist with the insurance process and paperwork. Here are some fire damage tips from our website for things you can do while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After A Fire

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

Call Us!

Our team in Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana East is Here to Help ® when your Tucson home or commercial business has fire damage. Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What is the Process for Restoring Fire Damage in My Anthony Estates Home?

9/9/2022 (Permalink)

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

Anthony Estates residents can count on us to restore fire damage quickly and efficiently. Our Northeast Tucson and Oro Valley/Marana East teams follow a comprehensive, seven-step process for every fire restoration.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event to help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Assessment

We will inspect the area and provide an assessment of the damage.

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

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

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

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

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot

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

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration may involve minor or major repairs, such as reconstructing various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call Us Today!

When your Anthony Estates home or commercial business has fire damage, our team in Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana East is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do if I Have Fire Damage in My Tucson Home?

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

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

Even small kitchen fires will cause smoke and soot damage to other areas of the house. Our Northeast Tucson and Oro Valley/Marana East teams are trained and certified to clean and restore fire damage quickly and efficiently. Here are some tips from our website on things you can do while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After A Fire

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
  • Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork
  • Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas
  • If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open
  • Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil
  • Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves
  • Change 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 the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
  • Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Call Us Today!

When your Tucson home or commercial business has fire, smoke, and soot damage, our local team in Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana East is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Are the Smoke Odor Damage and Removal Methods Used in Oro Valley?

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

We restore smoke odor and damage 24-hours a day in Pima County.

Our Northeast Tucson and Oro Valley/Marana East technicians have the specialized training and skill required to neutralize and remove smoke odor from homes and businesses in Oro Valley. Here are descriptions of smoke removal equipment we use:

Air Scrubber or Filter

  • Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system (HVAC) air scrubber or a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) air purifier can capture larger smoke molecules. There will still be some residual odor from smaller molecules or surface residues.

Ozone Generator

  • An ozone generator is a fast and highly effective smoke odor restoration method. These machines emit ozone, which follows the same paths through the air as smoke and oxidizes any residual traces in the air or on surfaces.

Thermal Fogging

  • Thermal fogging is an intensive treatment involving fogging machines. After residents evacuate, smoke cleaning professionals fill a structure with petroleum distillates that neutralize odors and ventilate the area.

Hydroxyl Generator

  • A hydroxyl generator is a slower and gentler alternative to ozone. These machines rely on ultraviolet light to generate hydroxyl radicals that eliminate smoke odors. It will take about three to five days of continuous operation to achieve the same results as a single ozone treatment.

Vapor Modification

  • Vapor modification is another odor elimination method that relies on aromatic compounds and a blower or fan to neutralize smoke odor

Call Us Today!

When your home or business has smoke damage, our local team in Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana East is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Cooking Oil Fire in Bonita Ridge Home?

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

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

Our team in Northeast Tucson and Oro Valley/Marana East responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year in Tucson. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), ranges or cook-tops account for three out of every five reported home fires involving cooking equipment. Here are some tips for cooking with oil from the NFPA: 

  • Always stay in the kitchen when frying on the stovetop
  • Keep an eye on what you fry. If you see wisps of smoke or the oil smells, immediately turn off the burner and carefully remove the pan from the burner. Smoke is a danger sign that the oil is too hot.
  • Heat the oil slowly to the temperature you need for frying or sautéing
  • Add food gently to the pot or pan, so the oil does not splatter
  • Always cook with a lid beside your pan. If you have a fire, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Do not remove the cover because the fire could start again. Let the pan cool for a long time. Never throw water on the fire.
  • Get everyone out of your home if the fire does not go out or you don’t feel comfortable sliding a lid over the pan. Call the fire department from outside.

Call Us!

When your home or business in Tucson has fire damage, our local team in Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana East is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Space Heater Fire Damages Home in Tucson?

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

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

Spring is here in Tucson, but evenings are still chilly. Some of us use space heaters to warm a room in our home during the cooler nights. Our team in Northeast Tucson and Oro Valley/Marana East offers these heating equipment safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

  • Never use your oven to heat your home
  • Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters, or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions
  • Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional
  • Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed
  • Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel-burning space heaters
  • Ensure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
  • Install wood-burning stoves following the manufacturer’s instructions or have a professional do the installation. All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
  • Install and maintain CO alarms to avoid the risk of CO poisoning. Do not light the appliance if you smell gas in your gas heater. Leave the home immediately and call your local fire department or gas company.

 Call Us Today!

When your Tucson home or commercial business has a fire damage emergency, our local team in Northeast Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana East is Here to Help ® Please call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Fire in Ventana Canyon Home?

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration in Pima County.

A fire started in my Ventana Canyon home when some old 9-volt batteries were accidentally tossed into the trash. Other metal objects in the garbage touched the two posts, causing a short circuit that made enough heat to start the fire.

SERVPRO® of Northeast Tucson and SERVPRO® of Oro Valley/Marana East offer these tips from the National Fire Protection Association to safely store and discard 9-volt batteries.

Storing 9-volt batteries

·      Keep batteries in original packaging until you are ready to use them. If loose, keep the posts covered with masking, duct, or electrical tape. Prevent the posts from coming in contact with metal objects.

·      Keep them someplace safe where they won’t be tossed around

·      Store batteries standing up

·      9-volt batteries should not be stored loose in a drawer. Do not store them in containers with other batteries.

Disposal

·      9-volt batteries should not be thrown away with the trash. They can come in contact with other batteries or pieces of metal.

·      9-volt batteries can be taken to a collection site for household hazardous waste

·      To be safe, cover the positive and negative posts with masking, duct, or electrical tape before getting rid of batteries

·      Some states do not allow any type of battery to be disposed of with trash. Check with your city or town for the best way to get rid of batteries.

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO® of Northeast Tucson and SERVPRO® of Oro Valley/Marana East have been restoring fire damage in Ventana Canyon for years. Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Fire Damage Restoration Services in Willow Canyon?

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

We follow a seven-step, comprehensive plan for restoring fire damage in Pima County.

SERVPRO® of Northeast Tucson and SERVPRO® of Oro Valley/Marana East have been restoring fire damage in Willow Canyon for years. Although every fire loss is different, we approach each restoration using the same seven-step process:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Assessment

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

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

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

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

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot

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

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

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

Call Us Today!

Willow Canyon residents and businesses can trust SERVPRO® of Northeast Tucson and SERVPRO® of Oro Valley/Marana East to restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Family Escape Planning Tips for Redington?

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

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

Do you have an escape plan in place, and have you recently practiced it with all of your family members? A sound fire escape plan is key to fire prevention and fire safety planning. SERVPRO® of Northeast Tucson and SERVPRO® of Oro Valley/Marana East’s technicians respond to fire damage emergencies each year in Redington and offer these escape planning tips for the National Fire Protection Association:

  • Make a home escape plan. Draw a map of your home showing all of the doors and windows. Discuss the plan with everyone in your home.
  • Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily.
  • Have a designated place (tree, mailbox, light pole) a safe distance away from the house where everyone should meet.
  • Practice your home fire drill at night and during the day with everyone in your home, twice a year
  • Practice using different ways out
  • Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them
  • Close doors behind you as you leave

Call Us Today!

Redington residents and commercial businesses can count on the professionals at SERVPRO® of Northeast Tucson and SERVPRO® of Oro Valley/Marana East to restore fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 520-760-9352.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.