Staying Cozy and Fire-Safe This Winter | SERVPRO of Hayward

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

Fire safety is a top priority for us at SERVPRO of Hayward this winter. Keep your home safe with these helpful tips!

Who else loves grabbing a blanket and getting cozy at this time of year? We are in the heart of the winter season in the Hayward community, which means we are all finding ways to stay warm while the winter weather rages outside. Make sure you are being safe with your fireplace and space heater to avoid serious fire situations.

Did you know that the number of house fires skyrockets during the winter months? Unfortunately, most of them are caused by preventable accidents with space heaters, fireplace issues and other electrical woes. SERVPRO of Hayward offers some easy ways to stay safe while staying warm this winter below.

Staying Fire-Safe in the Kitchen This Holiday Season | SERVPRO of Hayward

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

Fire damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Hayward on the case!

Can you believe it is already time to celebrate the holiday season? Whatever holidays you enjoy with your friends and family, there is bound to be some delicious homemade food somewhere in the mix.

Whether you are in charge of hosting your entire dinner party or have just been requested to bring your famous pecan pie, using safe cooking strategies in the kitchen is crucial for avoiding a house fire.

House fires are more common at this time of year, especially in the kitchen. Incorporating these preventive steps while you are making your food can significantly reduce your risk of starting a blaze that would most definitely derail your holiday plans.

Backyard BBQ Fire Safety Basics | SERVPRO of Hayward

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Have you had a barbeque gone wrong? Call SERVPRO of Hayward to get your space back in shape.

We all know how special a Wisconsin summer is, and trust us, we are outside enjoying the warm sun and lake days around the Hayward area just like you! We bet you also love to be the grillmaster for your family when it comes time to make lunch or dinner.

Did you know that July is the peak month for grill fires? A single grill fire can lead to a damaged roof, melted siding or even a full house fire. SERVPRO of Hayward’s fire damage restoration team wants you to enjoy your summer BBQs without the risk of fire, so read on to learn some great fire safety tips.

Dos and Don’ts for Your Fall Fires | SERVPRO of Hayward

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Bonfire season is upon us! SERVPRO of Hayward has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.

Say it with us: We love fall in the Midwest! This time of year is great for many reasons, but we thoroughly enjoy the crisper air, football Sundays (go Packers) and the increased time spent outside enjoying the colors and changing seasons. We also love enjoying fall nights at our bonfire pits.

If you are like us and enjoy lighting a fire in the fall, be sure you are being responsible with your flames! Any dry conditions can increase your risk of starting an out-of-control blaze that can lead to a serious situation.

Our SERVPRO of Hayward team explains some easy steps to follow when it comes to your bonfires so you can enjoy the crackling flames and campfire stories in a controlled and worry-free way.

Teaching Your Kids About Fire Safety So It’s Not Scary | SERVPRO® of Hayward

6/12/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hayward is here for you and your family if you experience a fire in your home or business.

Having children is incredibly rewarding, but it is hard work! You are responsible for teaching them about the world and encouraging creativity and curiosity about the world around them. It is also your job to keep them safe, and that can sometimes be hard to do without overwhelming your kids or scaring them with the facts.

Fire safety is an incredibly important concept to teach your children, but house fires in general are scary situations, no matter if you are 55 or 5 years old.

By introducing fire-safe concepts in an encouraging environment, you can increase your child’s likelihood of responding correctly in an emergency situation.

Teach Your Staff to PASS Fire Safety Training | SERVPRO® of Hayward

3/28/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with the aftermath of a commercial fire? SERVPRO of Hayward is your local restoration expert.

No owner wants to think about suffering damage to his or her business or commercial property. The damage alone could be catastrophic and costly to repair. Having a plan in place for handling emergency situations can help minimize or even prevent damages.

This is especially true when fire is involved! Building fires can quickly get out of hand if your employees are not prepared or taught how to respond.

By following our tips on teaching fire safety below, you can arm your employees with the knowledge they need to act quickly and efficiently in the event of a fire.

Call SERVPRO as Soon as the Fire Is Out | SERVPRO® of Hayward

2/9/2023 (Permalink)

For quick repairs following a fire, get in touch with our team at SERVPRO of Hayward.

No one wants to think about suffering a disaster in your home! Any sort of disaster can be overwhelming and scary for everyone in your family.

One disaster that has the potential to be dangerous and even catastrophic, though, is a house fire. Fire can spread quickly, leaving behind a mess and a lot of questions.

Recovering after a house fire can take a lot of work if you attempt the recovery on your own. When you have SERVPRO of Hayward on your team, we can ensure the restoration process is smooth and simple for you! We have the tools and experience needed to fully restore your house and make the fire a distant memory.

We fully lay out our approach to fire damage below, so read on to learn more.

Stay Toasty Warm and Fire-Safe This Season | SERVPRO® of Hayward

1/24/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Hayward if you experience any smoke, soot or fire damage.

Winter has certainly arrived here in Wisconsin! The temperatures are below freezing and the snowpack has settled in nicely.

We can almost guarantee that you have either cranked up your heat or stocked up on wood for your fireplace, or both. Because we use heat so much at this time of year, being fire-safe and responsible around heat sources is crucial to avoiding house fires.

We want you to stay warm and fire-free this season, so check out our latest blog all about home fire safety below.

Decorating Safely During the Holiday Season | SERVPRO® of Hayward

11/7/2022 (Permalink)

Have smoke or fire damage in your house? Contact us today to get cleaned up fast.

It’s beginning to look a lot like the holiday season! Home-cooked food, treats, gift-giving and quality time with family and friends are what make this part of the year so special for families.

Unfortunately, while this season is wonderful for so many reasons, there is also an increased risk of suffering a home fire during this time.

<h3decorations">Flammable Decorations

If you like to decorate your home for the seasons, you have to exercise caution. Many holiday decorations are flammable, so it is no surprise that about 790 structural fires are started every year due to decorations catching fire.

Stockings hung over the fire provide such a cozy atmosphere, but they also pose a significant fire risk. Be careful not to hang them too low or close to any open flame. All it takes is one simple spark to set those beautiful stockings on fire.

If you are a “real tree” family, make sure the tree you choose from the farm or lot is freshly cut and not dehydrated. Water it daily and clean up any dried pine needles around it often. All lights should be unplugged as well before turning in for the night.

<h3your-home">Protecting Your Home

This time of year also brings more candle use. Candles are a wonderful addition to any cozy setting, but they are a fire hazard all on their own.

In fact, candles are responsible for 20 new home fires every single day during the holiday season. If you are a candle user, always keep them in your line of sight and never place them where a child or a pet could knock them over.

Lights on your home are a classic holiday tradition, and there are some things you can do to make sure they are lit safely. Only use outdoor-safe lights and never pierce the wiring with nails or staples while you are hanging them up.

Once all of these measures are taken, it is time to sit back and enjoy the holidays! Don’t forget to periodically check your smoke alarms as well to ensure they are working and ready to alert you of any smoke or fire.

Whether you are taking in the sites wandering downtown or planning out the perfect place to enjoy the Lure of Lights, know that we are here for you if you need us.

Our team at SERVPRO of Hayward is ready ²⁴⁄₇ to respond to your emergency and we can help you restore any damages your home suffers during this time of year. The holiday season in Wisconsin is a wonderful time of year, so we promise to minimize the impact of any damages or disaster you face.

Easy Steps to Prevent Fires in Your Home | SERVPRO® of Hayward

6/10/2022 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO of Hayward is here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration needs.

So far in 2022, the American Red Cross has responded to more than 20,000 house fires. Unfortunately, that only represents a small portion of the house fires that have actually occurred in the United States.

Having a smoke detector in your home continues to be the best way to prevent death and extensive damage from home fires, but there are other ways to help prevent fires before they even start. Most of these ways are as simple as making sure certain areas of your home are cleaned regularly.

Smoke Detector and Fire Alarm Maintenance

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

Common preventive maintenance for fire alarms and smoke detectors is simple and best when done on a regular schedule. Humidity, corrosion, changes in voltage and temperature can cause problems with this equipment and being tested on a regular basis will allow these issues to be addressed before they cause problems.

One of the most costly and devastating events for a company or organization is a fire. According to Fireward, more than 22,000 non-dwelling building fires occurred over the course of two years. About 3,700 of those occurred because an alarm failed to sound.

It is very important to establish a fire alarm and smoke detector testing schedule. Here are a few tips:

1. Schedule tests. Schedule tests of smoke detectors and fire alarms at least once a month.
2. Clean alarms. Alarms should be cleaned at least quarterly to prevent dirt and dust build-up.
3. Follow up. Ensure that fire departments are properly receiving notifications when fire alarms sound.
4. Double Check. Work with a professional to ensure sensors and wiring are all functioning correctly once a year.

As you conduct regular tests of your smoke detectors and fire alarms, you probably won’t encounter major issues. It’s easy to get complacent about regular testing when you don’t have any issues but this small investment in preventive maintenance can save you from major losses that a fire can cause down the road.

If, despite this tips, you do experience a fire, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Hayward at 715-634-0699.  We will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Requires 4 Components—Here’s What They Are | SERVPRO® of Hayward

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

Let’s take a look back to your golden years and see if you can remember what a tetrahedron is? Since your golden years were a few years ago, it might be tough to remember.

So let us help you out…a tetrahedron is another name for a pyramid—a three-dimensional, triangular shape with four equal sides.

You may be really curious as to how this pertains to fire and fire safety! Well, a fire needs four components, which are known as the fire tetrahedron. Without these elements working together, a fire won’t start or survive.

The 4 Things a Fire Needs to Live

Fuel—something to ignite. This is a pretty common thing, but the type of fuel can be organic or inorganic material. Things like wood and plastic can be the perfect fuel source for fire.

Heat—enough to cause combustion. Everything has a combustion point where it will either ignite or melt. The amount of heat necessary can vary for every type of substance, but it will eventually happen.

Oxygen. Without oxygen, just like most everything else, a fire won’t survive long. Oxygen helps produce an expanding series of chemical reactions and will produce things like smoke and carbon monoxide in the process.

Chemical Chain Reaction. The continual cycle and feeding of heat, fuel and oxygen combine to produce a chain reaction. And as long as this chain reaction isn’t disturbed, the fire will continue to burn.

The 4 Ways to Stop a Fire

Cool it. While this may be the first thing most people think of, it’s still an important step that must be recognized. Whether you’re using buckets, hoses or anything else, the point is to cool the fuel to a point that combustion is no longer possible. You will want to cool the heat to a thermal balance so that the heat generated can’t compete with the rate that heat is lost.

Smother it. If you can take the oxygen out of a fire, then it won’t live. If you smother a fire, you have deprive it from one necessity that it really needs, oxygen. This is the principle behind the “stop, drop and roll” practice.

Starve it. As long as a fire has adequate fuel such as grass, wood or other materials, it will continue to grow and burn. You can stop a fire by removing its fuel source while it’s still trying to consume it.

Interrupt the chain reaction. Certain chemical agents can help chemically disrupt a fire. The chemical halon is very effective, but it has an elevated potential for ozone depletion. Because of this, it can become an environmental threat, which has now caused production to be stopped.

If the fire tetrahedron makes a wreck of your home or business, we’re ready around the clock to help you recover. Contact SERVPRO anytime for fast, thorough cleanup and recovery after a fire.

When Should You Use a Fire Extinguisher?

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

It may seem like the obvious answer to this is “in the event of a fire” but using a fire extinguisher without taking the proper precautions can be dangerous. First, make sure that the fire department has been notified. Then, be sure that everyone is evacuated. If the fire is small and not growing and the room is not filled with smoke, you can then go ahead and use the fire extinguisher.

Before you pull the pin, make sure you know how to use a fire extinguisher. Just remember the anagram PASS: Pull. Aim. Squeeze. Sweep.

• Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher. This pin will release the lock and allow you to discharge the extinguishing agent.
• Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire. Aiming at the flames will cause to blow around and allow the fire to spread. Aiming at the base will extinguish the fire.
• Squeeze the lever on the fire extinguisher slowly. This will release the extinguishing agent.
• Sweep the nozzle from side to side to cover the area of the fire’s source until the fire is out. Wait a few seconding to be sure that it is out and does not reignite.

If you experience a fire in your home or business, give SERPVPRO of Hayward a call at 715-634-0699. We can help with fire damage clean up and restoration as well as extinguisher residue clean up.

Interesting Soot and Smoke Tidbits

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

These soot webs are the product of wet smoke in a Spooner home.

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate virtually any cavity within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allow us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Soot

• Soot is basically a blanket of tiny molecules from contents and materials that burned in a fire.
• Soot is toxic. In a house fire, many of the contents are made up of materials such as plastic, metals and wood. These materials are safe when they are in their original form but when they are broken down to the molecular level by the fire, they can become carcinogenic.
• Another interesting fact about soot is its ability to form soot webs. The high temperatures from the fire allow the molecules to stick together and create a chainlike structure that looks like cobwebs. You should not attempt to clean soot webs yourself.

Smoke

• There are two types of smoke damage: wet smoke damage and dry smoke damage.
  • Wet smoke damage usually comes from burned plastics and rubbers. This type of smoke is typically very smelly and leaves behind a sticky texture which is much more difficult to clean. SERVPRO of Hayward can handle it though!
  • Dry smoke damage is produced by paper, wood and other fast burning, high temperature materials. This type of smoke damage is much easier to clean because it is not sticky like wet smoke damage.
• Protein smoke results from materials evaporating instead of burning. This type of smoke is virtually invisible but has a very pungent odor. It will cause the most discoloration of paints and varnishes.

If you have any questions about smoke or soot damage, give SERVPRO of Hayward a call at 715-634-0699.

Fire and Smoke Damage DOs and DON'Ts

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Hayward, we understand how stressful and overwhelming a fire in your home can be. Our goal is to ease your mind and make it “Like it never even happened.” Our professionally trained crew will be there for you at every step and are always happy to answer any questions you may have!

Now, I know you won’t be on your phone looking up what to do or not to do if you have a fire, but hopefully, some of these tips will stick with you.

DO

• Limit the movement of people in the structure to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keeps hands clean. Soot of hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels on rugs, upholstery and carpeted traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezers and refrigerators completely and prop their doors open to prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from the chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances. Then protect them with a light coat of lubricant.
• Pour RV antifreeze into sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and bathtubs if the heat is off during freezing temperatures.
• Gently wash both sides of the leaves of indoor plants.
• Change HVAC filter but leave the system off until checked by a trained professional.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to prevent soot particles from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON’T

• Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Hayward.
• Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Hayward.
• Don’t attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to the fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service person.
• Don’t consume any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored close to the fire, heat or water. They could potentially be contaminated.
• Don’t turn on any ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be wet or damaged and could case electrical shock or another fire.
• Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may cause the smoke odor to set in.

Most importantly, DO call SERVPRO of Hayward at 715-3-634-0699 to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Holiday Fire Prevention Tips

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Can you believe it’s almost Christmas already?! This year sure has flown by!

Although you mostly likely have already decorated your home for the holidays, SERVPRO of Hayward would like to share a few holiday fire preventions tips with you!

As you’re decorating your tree, yard and home, be sure to check all of your extension cords and holiday light cords for breaks or frays. Also, it is recommended to only string a maximum of up to three strands of holiday lights together. But don’t let that stop you from putting up all the lights that your heart desires! Just use another extension cords for your next three strands. Turn off all of your holiday lights before you leave home or go to bed.

Ensure that your outdoor decorations are intended for outdoor use. Indoors decorations that are used outdoors can break down in our harsh Wisconsin conditions and pose a risk of electrical shock or fire.

Are you an artificial or live Christmas tree kind of person? I, personally, used to be an artificial tree person but switched over to a live tree for the first time in 2020 and I don’t see myself switching back any time soon! Either way, there are fire hazards related to each. With both types of trees, keep them at least three feet away from heat sources, such as fireplaces, space heaters, candles, etc., that could potentially start them on fire.   If you decide to go with an artificial tree, make sure you look for a fire-resistant label on it when you purchase it. If a live tree is your thing, keep it watered and fresh! Dry needs and wood can catch fire easily. Which leads me to another safety tip! When you dispose of your live Christmas tree after the holiday is over, keep it away from your home and other buildings. Of the ten days with the most the Christmas tree fires, none of them are before Christmas, according to the NFPA Fire Analysis & Research Division.

SERVPRO of Hayward wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season!

Backyard Safety Tips

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

In northern Wisconsin summertime means catching up with family at backyard cookouts and spending warm summer nights telling stories around a bonfire. When combined with hot, dry weather, a single flame can rapidly advance to a devastating blaze. Here are some helpful tips to prevent your backyard going down in flames.

1.Check your clothing

Wear non-flammable clothing if possible, and never go barefoot when grilling or walking around a fire.

2.Location

Whether it's a grill, bonfire, citronella candles, or tiki torches—plan where you are going to set up an open flame. If children are present, candles should be out of reach. Make sure to check with your local DNR to make sure it is safe to have a fire. Ground that is too dry can lite up with just a single spark.

3.Keep everyone aware

Everyone is responsible for fire safety. You can avoid incidents through communication and awareness. Make sure everyone is aware of any open or recently snuffed flames that may still be hot to the touch. Exercise extra caution when children and pets are present. Always be alert and never leave a fire unattended.

4.Be ready to take-action

No one knows when an accident is going to happen, but when it does, having the right tools to react can be a lifesaver. In any case of an open flame, always keep a fire extinguisher nearby, so others are aware of its location. If you're grilling or cooking over a fire, never try to extinguish it with water. Remember to keep baking soda nearby in case of a grease fire.

Teaching Children About the Dangers of Fire

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), some children play with fire out of curiosity, boredom, or peer pressure and do not realize the danger fire poses. Each year children cause fires that result in hundreds of injuries and millions of dollars in damage. Here are some safety tips from NFPA to keep your family safe:

• Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children, up high, preferably in a locked cabinet
• Closely supervise children, making sure that they are kept away from other fire sources, including lit candles, cigarettes, bonfires, and stoves
• It is natural for young children to be curious and ask questions about fire, play with fire trucks, or pretend to cook. Use these opportunities to teach them about fire safety
• Explain that fire moves very fast and can hurt as soon as it touches them. Tell them that this is why matches and lighters are tools for adults only
• Establish clear rules and consequences about unsupervised and unauthorized uses of fire

Winter time fire prevention

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

We all know how everything is so dry in the winter time right? Because of that everything can start on fire so much easier and will burn so much faster. The number one cause of fires in the winter time in your heat source. Here are some tips and tricks for safely heating your home in the winter.

• From 2013-2015, an average of 45,900 home heating fires occurred in the United States each year.
• Heating was the second leading cause of home fires after cooking.
• Home heating fires peaked in the early evening hours between 5 and 9 p.m. with the highest peak between 6 and 8 p.m.
• Home heating fires peaked in January (21 percent) and declined to the lowest point from June to August.
• Confined fires accounted for 75 percent of home heating fires.
• Twenty-nine percent of the non-confined home heating fires happened because the heat source (like a space heater or fireplace) was too close to things that can burn.

Better to be safe than sorry

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Holiday season is in full swing! I don't think there is anyone more happy than us at SERVPRO of Hayward. We love getting together and celebrating. But with holidays and everyone decorating for them comes one of the biggest fire hazards of them all..... Real Christmas trees. Oh they are so beautiful and smell absolutely amazing!! They need a lot of tender care, but we at SERVPRO are here to give you some helpful tips and some useful facts about Christmas trees.

Between 2013 and 2017; 160 home fires were reported by the National Fire Protection Association and 44% were fueled by electrical problems. Over 10 million dollars in property damage was caused.

• 25 percent of Christmas tree fires are caused from and alternate heat source such as a candle to close to the tree.
• Not watering your tree in the morning and before you go to bed will cause it to die and dry out causing it to go up in flames way faster.
• Always unplug your tree when you are not home or before you go to bed. We all love the way the tree lights up a room at night but not when the flames area the light... 85 percent of Christmas tree fires happen when no one is home.

Leaving your tree lit and unattended, the lights heat up and cause the dry needles to ignite. It only takes between seven to ten minutes for a whole tree to burn and catch the rest of your home or business to go up in flames. We at SERVPRO encourage you water your tree twice a day and unplug the lights when unattended.

Pets are Family too

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Have you ever thought about what or how you are going to make sure your pets get to safety in the event of a fire? We here at SERVPRO of Hayward would like to give you a  few helpful tips to ensure your pets will be as safe and comfortable as possible.

                PET EMERGENCY KITS

• Make sure they have a three day supply of food and water
• Have their medications and medical records
• Have a pet first aid kit ready; include bandages, tape, and scissors. Antibiotic ointment, Flea and tick prevention. A pet first aid reference book is also a good idea to have ready
• Pet crate or carrier
• Sanitation items, including pet litter and box, newspaper, paper towels, plastic bags, and household bleach 
• Picture of you and your pet together; Include of there sex, breed, age, species, color, and any identifying characteristic they may have
• Familiar items such as a toy or blanket to help reduce stress on your beloved pet

Be in the know

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Do you know there are different types of fire extinguishers? Do you know when to use the correct one? Here is a guide to help you in choosing the correct one for the job.

• Class A: This is the most common extinguisher and can be used to put out ordinary combustibles such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper, and many plastics.
• Class B: Used on fires involving flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline, and oil.
• Class C: Designed for fires involving appliances, tools, or other equipment electronically energized or plugged in.
• Class D:For use on flammable metals. Often these metals are found in factories.
• Class K: Intended for use on fires that involve oils; vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. Usually found in commercial kitchens.

From A-Z we offer it all in the Hayward area

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that our cleanup pros offer 5 areas of restoration services for fire?  And at SERVPRO of Hayward, our team of certified and trained restoration technicians can handle them all.  We are a full-service restoration company that can take the first call to your fire emergency and will close the deal with you after your fire is cleaned up and restored back to its pre-damaged condition.  

We offer mitigation, structural cleaning, contents cleaning, specialty restoration, and reconstruction.  Yes, we offer reconstruction after your fire damage.  That is one service that our customers are sometimes surprised to hear.  But this way also we can assure an excellent job from start to finish to ease your mind during this loss.  

Give us a call at 715-634-0699 to chat about all of our offerings and see how we can better serve you at SERVPRO of Hayward.

Fires can happen anywhere

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

When you least expect it fire can strike.  The most common misconceptions are that newer appliances (being they are new) won't cause a fire.  Well, what if there is faulty or old wiring leading to this new appliance that just can't hold up to this new machine.   The picture here is a newer appliance that had was the source of damage at this house fire.  Luckily this fire was mainly contained to the laundry area but the smoke and soot damage that went throughout the entire home was what caused the most issue. 

As smoke and soot can seep into crevasses that and is unseen it can be the most difficult to remove.  Luckily for you our team of professional trained and certified production technicians have you covered.  There are many proper techniques and equipment needed for such damage that they have access to and will bring to your home for precise fire remediation and cleaning.

Sawyer County Smoke and Soot Damage

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot damage from a fire can almost be as devastating as a fire itself.  Luckily you don’t lose your items like in a fire, but the smoke damage caused to the items in your household can and will linger if not taken care of properly.  SERVPRO of Hayward has the proper mitigation tools to take care of this for you.  Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  SERVPRO of Hayward is on-call 24/7 for all your emergency restoration needs if you have a fire on the weekend or at night we are here for you, give us a call at 715-634-0699.

Fire Trauma in Sawyer County?

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Understands the Trauma of Fire Disasters

Every 18 seconds a fire occurs in the U.S. but only one matters to you!  We are here to make it “Like it never even happened.”

We at SERVPRO of Hayward have service response guidelines to better serve you in your disaster.

• Within 1 hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO of Hayward will contact you to arrange for service

4-    Within 4 hours of loss notification, our SERVPRO of Hayward will be on-site to start mitigation (if necessary)

8-    Within 8 hours business hours, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the adjuster by our SERVPRO of Hayward Professional

Give us a call at 715-634-0699 if you fall to this situation we will be faster to your fire disaster.

Smoke intrusion and how SERVPRO of Hayward can help

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

This chimney fire doesn't look too bad to the eye, but the house was damaged by smoke and soot, the owner was back living in the house in no time.

Having a chimney fire can be just as bad as a physical fire, the smoke damage that is caused gets into everything as the odor can seep into unimaginable areas.  Luckily at SERVPRO of Hayward, we have you covered.  With IICRC trained technicians in smoke and soot removal, we provide a service from beginning to end to make sure there is no trace of smoke or soot.  SERVPRO of Hayward has professional air movers and air purification and deodorizers that remove these odors from your personal items to your walls.  We also are able to dry clean soo from your walls without damaging any surfaces.  Our carpet cleaning expertise will leave your carpets looking good as new through our innovative systems.  If your home has fallen to a chimney fire with smoke and soot intrusion give SERPVRO of Hayward a call 24/7 for all your emergency restoration needs at 715-634-0699.

Fire safety this Thanksgivng

11/15/2019 (Permalink)

Cooking brings family and friends together, provides an outlet for creativity and can be relaxing. But did you know that cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries? By following a few safety tips you can prevent these fires:

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop.

• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.

• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.

• Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop. If you have a small (grease) cooking fire and decide to fight the fire...  On the stovetop, smother the flames by sliding a lid over the pan and turning off the burner. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled. For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed. If you have any doubt about fighting a small fire… Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.

• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number from outside the home.

Fire Safety with the Kickoff of Summer Aproaching

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

As Memorial Day is a day that we honor our fallen heroes that have sacrificed their lives for our freedom by serving in the military, some look at is an unofficial kick-off to the summer months.  

With grilling and campfires, a staple as families gather this weekend we at SERVPRO of Hayward want you to do this as safely as possible.  Here are some campfire and grilling safety tips.

Campfire safety tips from Smokey the Bear and eekwi.org

1. Dig a small pit away from overhanging branches. (Most parks have campfire pits ready and waiting for you.)
2. Circle the pit with rocks or be sure it already has a metal fire ring.
3. Clear a five-foot area around the pit down to the soil.
4. Keep a bucket of water and a shovel nearby.
5. Stack extra wood upwind and away from the fire.
6. After lighting, do not discard the match until it is cold.
7. Never leave a campfire unattended, not even for a minute.

And Grilling tips from NFPA.org

1. Have grill far away from home or building as possible.

2. Check gas tank for any leaks and that it is properly hooked up and wait 5 minutes if the cover is closed and you turn the gas on so it dissipates.

3. When turning off, turn off gas first then the knob in front.

If you are in need of any fire cleanup and restoration give SERVPRO of Hayward a call at 715-634-0699.

Grilling this weekend in Burnett County?

4/4/2019 (Permalink)

Temperatures are warming up quickly around the SERVPRO of Hayward area.  This weekend will feel like spring and that means many of us will be bringing out our grills.  Although we may be experienced grillers accidents can happen.  Make sure your grill is in tip-top shape and have a good time, here are a couple of small tips also:

• Grill outside and away from any structures. 
• Make sure your grill is stable.
• Keep your grill clean. 
• Check for propane leaks on your gas grill. 
• If the flame goes out, wait to re-light. 
• Take care around the grill.
•  Be careful with charcoal starter fluid. 
• Wear the right clothing.

Open flame is always a dangerous thing, make sure to keep kids away also.  

SERVPRO of Hayward wants you to have a safe spring grilling season. 

Available 24 hours a day 7 days a week

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know SERVPRO of Hayward trained and certified professionals are available 365 days a year 24 hours a day to help you regain control quickly if you have a house fire emergency?

The first 48 hours after fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings.  We can help prevent fire damage from creating long term problems by providing a timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration.  We will try to ensure your property is restored to preloss condition.

Give us a call at 715-634-0699 for SERVPRO of Hayward if you need help recovering after a fire loss.  Now,  Meet our trained and certified crew members that are ready to help!

Trego Smoke and Soot Cleanup

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Hayward will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 715-634-0699

Thanksgiving Day Tips for Emergency Prevention

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know that Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas, and Christmas Eve? We want you to enjoy these days with your loved ones, so here are a few safety tips for when you are cooking that scrumptious meal.

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids or toys.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

Be especially aware when Deep Frying a turkey, people tend to put too much oil in which causes overflow and spreads to the open flame causing a mass fireball. Also putting in a frozen or very wet bird can cause major problems which they call B.L.E.V.E which stands for Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion.

• Always use fryer outside away from any structure
• Keep oil under 350 degrees, the hotter the oil the more combustible it is
• Don’t overfill the pot with oil
• Thoroughly defrost turkey(24 hours for every 10 pounds the turkey weighs)
• Turn off flame before putting turkey in
• Keep grease fire approved extinguisher on hand
• Lower turkey into pot slowly

If by unfortunate event you have an emergency this Holiday Season please know your SERVPRO of Hayward is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even on Holidays. Contact us if need be at (715)634-0699 and we will be there to help. Happy Holidays!

Hayward Area Smoke and Soot Cleanup

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

11/13/2017

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Hayward will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today –715-634-0699

Grilling Summer Safety Tips

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

Happy Grilling!

Warm spring days are upon us, and maybe you grill all year long or maybe you wait for these wonderful warm times of the year. Either way make sure you are following safety guidelines when firing up your grill so you can prevent a fire elsewhere. SERVPRO of Hayward wants you to have a safe summer!

Nearly 9,000 home fires a year involve grills, according to a National Fire Protection Association report. Of all the home fires involving grills, gas-fueled grills accounted for four out of five fires, while 16% involved charcoal or other solid-fueled grills.

A leak or break was the leading factor contributing to gas grill-related fires, according to the NFPA report.

• Check the gas cylinder hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year.
• Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose, which will quickly reveal escaping gas by releasing bubbles.
• If you smell or otherwise suspect a gas leak, and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and grill. If the leak stops, get a professional to service it before using it again. Call the fire department if the leak does not stop.
• If you smell gas while cooking, get away from the grill immediately and call the fire department. Do not attempt to move the grill.
• Never turn on the gas when the lid is closed. The gas may build up inside, and when ignited, the lid could blow off and cause injuries or burns.
• After cooking, make sure you completely close the valve on your gas grill.
• Always store gas grills – and propane tanks – outside and away from your house.
• The leading cause of structure fires from use of charcoal grills was leaving or placing an object that could burn too close to the grill, according to the NFPA study.

• Charcoal grills can continue to remain hot for many hours after the flames extinguish. Avoid placing any burnable objects near the grill or moving the grill while the coals are hot. Keep combustible items that may be blown by the wind away from the grill.
• Check for rust damage in metal grills, which may make it possible for charcoal to fall through onto surfaces below and cause a fire.
• Purchase the proper starter fluid. Store out of reach from children and away from heat sources.
• Do not add charcoal starter fluid when coals or kindling have already been ignited. Never use any other flammable or combustible liquid to get the fire started.
• If the fire is too low, rekindle with dry kindling and more charcoal if needed. Avoid adding liquid fuel because it can cause a flash fire.
• Do not leave the grill unattended.
• SERVPRO of Hayward is here to help and serve you in your time of need, give us a call at715-634-0699, if disaster strikes.

Stress Free Professionals

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

Let us ease your stress in a stressful situation.

Did you know April is National Stress Awareness Month? Let us at SERVPRO of Hayward help take away some of that stress if you fall to a disaster of any size.

Our restoration team specializes in Fire & Water Cleanup and Restoration, along with Mold Remediation, and general cleaning.

Why call us first? Because we will make sure your cleanup is stress free from beginning to end, with a smooth easy process from our trained professionals. They will communicate the entire job from start to finish so you understand, and can deal with your insurance carrier as well to assure you are getting the best job done for you.

Give us a call at 715-634-0699 and we will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Check your Smoke Alarms

1/16/2018 (Permalink)

Blog | SERVPRO Franchise Website Administration

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house. Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation.

Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance. For more on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Hayward at 715-634-0699.

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm "chirps," the battery is low and should be replaced right away.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

Do's and Don'ts if you Have a Fire in your Home

1/16/2018 (Permalink)

If you have a fire in your home we understand you won’t be out there on the web looking for tips, but maybe by reading these ahead of time some of these will stick in your head if you do fall into this unfortunate position.

At SERVPRO of Hayward we have to goal in mind to make it “Like it never even happened.” in your home.  Whether it smoked or smoldered we will make sure our professionally trained crew will be there for you.

Here are a few Do’s and Don’ts if you have fire and smoke damage.

DO

• Limit movement of people in the structure to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely, and prop doors open to prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances. Then protect with a light coat of lubricant.
• Pour RV antifreeze into sinks, toilet bowl, holding tanks, and tubs if heat is off during freezing season.
• Gently wash both side of leaves and indoor plants.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until checked by trained professional.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON’T

• DON’T attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Hayward Professional.
• DON’T attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Hayward
• DON’T attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service person.
• DON’T consume any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. They could be contaminated.
• DON’T turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock.
• DON’T send garments to the dry cleaner, Improper cleaning may set the smoke odor.

Let SERVPRO of Hayward help you out by contacting us at 715-634-0699.

Trego Smoke and Soot Cleanup

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Hayward will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 715-634-0699

Hayward Area Smoke and Soot Cleanup

11/13/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Hayward will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today –715-634-0699

Hayward Smoke and Soot Cleanup

10/3/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

CALL SERVPRO of Hayward today 715-634-0699