Fire Damage Restoration for Newburgh Residents

9/21/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO supports the local fire departments and the Newburgh community after fire damage disasters.

SERVPRO in Newburgh Offers Expert Fire Cleanup

Property fires can be an emotionally draining situation for homeowners. Over 450,000 structural fires occur in the US every year, primarily from cooking, smoking, electronics, and appliance malfunctions. Restoration services are usually enacted as part of an insurance program between insurers and policyholders. Our role as restoration technicians is to salvage or repair the structure and contents of your home. 

Our role as a fire damage restoration service in Newburgh is manifold encompassing assessment, estimate, and repair. On arrival, our technicians can communicate directly with you to inform you of what can be repaired, what needs replacing, and whether any mitigation activities can help to reduce loss. One example of mitigation is expediently drying parts of the property that may have become wet during the firefighting procedure. Moisture can cause soot or ash to bond with surfaces and fabrics. It increases our perception of malodors and leads to secondary damages such as microbial growth. Using fast-drying procedures in the home can help to limit potential losses in the immediate aftermath of a home emergency. 

Smoke residues, ash, and debris can make parts of the home unsafe or uninhabitable. SERVPRO can help reduce the timeframe of restoration service to minimize the impact on your everyday life. We record the testing, loss detailing, and the extent of the damages process on behalf of your insurer. We can help your insurer return an accurate estimate quickly by conducting these tasks. Once a breakdown of damages and repair is in your hands, we can begin restoration immediately. But before any work is complete, we provide you with an authorization to begin services form. Our crew chiefs are happy to answer any queries you may have before work starts. Once you provide your signature, we can set to work in an organized and efficient manner. 

Repairing a Burnt Structure

• Removing smoke residues and odor from the structure is essential for restoration.
• Sorting materials into salvageable and non-salvageable can assist with the speed of recovery by avoiding wasting time on heavily damaged or inexpensive materials.
• Repair of salvageable items can include repainting, refinishing, or resurfacing high-value items like hardwood furniture.

There can be many variations when it comes to restoring a fire damaged structure. Our technicians have to think on their feet and make informed choices regarding performing services. They rely on industry-leading training to formulate a game plan and advanced equipment to help with the execution. A burnt property is full of material remnants destroyed beyond repair during the combustion process. Additionally, the heat and smoke produced can damage surfaces extending several meters beyond the ignition source. Restoration involves replacing materials damaged beyond repair and restoring those surfaces, furnishings, and belongings that may have been impacted by smoke.  

Severity of Damages

• Smoke residues in the ignition area usually characterize minor property damage. That damage does not extend beyond the initial flames. Usually resolvable with wet and dry cleaning.
• Medium damages feature significant charring of materials at the ignition point, with smoke residues spreading to adjacent rooms. Replacement and refinishing of surfaces are often necessary.
• Significant damages require extensive structural repair and emergency services such as boarding up or sealing the property. Restoration may take several months to complete.

Contact SERVPRO of North Orange County for urgent property restoration and SERVPRO of South Orange County for fire damage restoration at (845) 342-3333.

How Do I Know What Can Be Restored After A House Fire In Montgomery?

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage? SERVPRO is prepared with restoration equipment and experienced technicians.

SERVPRO’s Green Team Uses Many Different Restoration Techniques to Give You Back Your Montgomery Home

House fires leave families at a loss as to what to do and where to go for help. SERVPRO has the right technicians to help you deal with cleanup and restoration. Getting you back to normal is what we do in Montgomery.

How Do You Know What You Can Restore?

If a home has suffered fire damage in Montgomery, damage to the contents will occur. The level of harm is determined, but the extensiveness of the fire. Our fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) have the experience and equipment needed to ascertain what gets restored. Several factors affect cleanability. These are:

•   Types of Surface
•   Amount of Heat
•   Age of Surface
•   Amount of Moisture
•   Type of Material Burned
•   Air Pressure
•   Impingement
•   Temperature Change

Giving You Back Your Home

You want your life to return to normal as soon as possible, and we want that too. As our technicians start to clean, repair, and restore your home after fire damage, they apply certain basic cleaning principles. These include:

•   Inspecting the affected area to locate smoke residues
•   Identifying the types of residues
•   Identifying the type of surface
•   Capture and remove smoke residues
•   Dispose of residues

Although these basic methods apply to every job, SERVPRO handles rest assured we look at your unique situation. Every home, and every fire, is different. We apply the cleaning and fire restoration methods to restore your residence to pre-damaged condition. Our goal is always to leave it “Like it never even happened.”

For fire damage service call SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County at (845) 342-3333. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Where Do I Start the Cleanup After a Kitchen Fire in Newburgh?

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

Dealing with a kitchen fire will certainly cause some frustration. Handle the situation with a call to SERVPRO. We are standing by 24/7 for you.

Calling Experts for Fire Restoration in Your Home Puts a Solid Plan into Action for Quality Results

With any kitchen fire, the stovetop is the usual culprit. Whether you had a grease fire or another fire loss, the soot and smoke can be tough to deal with on your own. Instead of going the DIY route, the trained professionals at SERVPRO get to work fast using all of the latest techniques and technology to restore your interior to pre-damage condition.

How Do You Address a Fire Restoration Call?

Once you call us for emergency service, our skilled technicians arrive on the scene to begin the assessment and restoration. After removing all of the fire-damaged materials and debris in your Newburgh kitchen, such as cabinets, lighting, drywall, and appliances, we then begin cleaning soot and smoke particles. 

•   Wet smoke is generated with lower heat, often coming from burning rubber or plastics. Such smoke residue is often stubborn because it webs and becomes sticky or smears to the touch.
•   Dry smoke develops at a higher temperature and is fast-burning, often coming from burned materials like wood and paper. This type of smoke is often easier to clean.

We know that air-quality and foul odors are an issue with any kitchen fire, so we have a range of deodorization techniques that allow us to make your interior, “Like it never even happened.”

•   Thermal foggers, also known as dry fogging, helps to vaporize deodorizers that react on a chemical level with odor-causing residues.
•   Air scrubbers are excellent for removing airborne particles and odorous elements from the air.

SERVPRO of North Orange County understands how important it is for you to get your home back to normal quickly after suffering from fire damage in your kitchen. Call us 24/7 at (845) 342-3333 to deploy a team that gets to work fast with specialized restoration services.

Fire Damage Incidents In Your Middletown Property

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

The first step to resolving fire damage is calling your local trained professionals at SERVPRO.

Various Reasons Fire Damage Incidents In Middletown Can Leave Property Uninhabitable

Fires can start anywhere in a property, causing widespread damage. In many cases, such incidents displace the occupants. Although most fires start in the kitchen, fires can start in other parts of the property. Faulty appliances or unattended candles are other likely sources of sparks that lead to fire damage.

Although the extent of a fire damage incident in Middletown is the primary determinant of whether the continued occupation of a house is possible, other factors play a role too. Common reasons why house occupants may need to vacate the house for restoration include:

•   Massive residue deposits on surfaces and contents
•   Severe structural damage, including holes in the walls or roof
•   Noxious fumes or bad odor
•   Damaged utilities such as plumbing or electrical lines

A single factor or a combination of several factors can make a house uninhabitable immediately after a fire. Our SERVPRO technicians scope the loss site thoroughly to establish all issues that may affect you or your family if you continue occupying the house. In the case of noxious fumes and aerosols, ventilating the property with axial fans, which move large volumes of air across a wide area, helps remove the contaminated air inside the house faster.

Structural or utility damages can lead to life-threatening situations. Our SERVPRO technicians can handle some of these damages, including boarding up openings on walls and installing tarps on the roof in case the fire leaves a gaping hole. Such stopgap measures help keep a property habitable until complete repairs can be done. In case of severe damage, such as when frames and other structural supports are damaged, we involve construction specialists. The damage to utility lines like power cables and water pipes also varies. Our crews use circuit testers to identify electrical faults. In case of severe damage, we strip off the wires so they can be replaced.

Regaining access to your property after a fire incident is a top priority, although it is not always easy. Call SERVPRO of North Orange County at (845) 342-3333 to help. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Will the Smell Ever Leave My Middletown House After Fire Damage?

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

After a fire, odors may remain for a long time if the situation is not dealt with correctly. Contact our certified SERVPRO professionals 24/7.

Trained and Experienced Technicians from SERVPRO Succeed in Removing Fire Damage and Malodors from Middletown Residences Employing a Wide Range of Strategies.

Fire damage restoration tasks frequently require multiple steps, perhaps none so much as eliminating the unpleasant odors that follow the heating and burning of structural components, food, grease, and other contents of your Middletown home. If the fire loss team you hire does focus with skill and commitment on professional deodorization, it is unlikely that your home can return to preloss condition. No matter how completely charring and fire residues are removed, any lingering smell of smoke and damaged materials can permanently alter your sense of comfort and security in what should be your happy home.

Are Air Fresheners an Option to Eliminate Odors?

A plethora of sprays, blocks, wicking liquids, gels, and other consumer options are on the market, promising to take care of the malodors that go hand in hand with the fire damage inside a Middletown residence. You might get fleeting success with these approaches, but the smell can recur, especially as humidity and temperatures fluctuate. Masking agents distract the occupants of a fire-damaged property by covering up the unwanted odors. Still, they usually have intense and perhaps unpalatable aromas of their own that can become ineffective or irritating in their own right.

How Do Professionals Work Toward the Goal of Eradicating Smoke Odors?

The SERVPRO deodorization experts who take on the task of eliminating odor realize everyone's perception of odors is different. Because of this, we must check in with our customers periodically during the odor mitigation and remediation process to monitor how well our efforts are working. We make adaptations on a project by project basis after checking the boxes on the following four procedure protocol:

Can we remove the source of the odor?

Since our technicians are already on the lookout for charred and soot-coated debris, this step is already in full swing during other phases of fire damage recovery. This strategy can become a bit of a detection exercise as we seek hidden or bits of debris. Before structural damage is repaired, it is wise to scan between walls and in other accessible building cavities for foul-smelling waste, including pieces of insulation or soot-covered chunks of broken drywall or plaster, and the like.

Can we clean surfaces that have had contact with the source of the odor?

Comprehensive cleaning of soot-covered surfaces constitutes a significant phase of most fire damage remediation. We carefully consider the structure's permeable surfaces, including woodwork and otherwise undamaged wall or ceiling materials, to determine if the minute odor-bearing particles of soot made their way into the pores of the structures and fixtures. Odors trapped within these components might "disappear" on the surface only to vaporize persistently later when temperature and humidity levels are conducive.

Can we recreate the conditions that created the odors?

Because the smoke odors reside within tiny soot particles, deodorization science suggests that attempts to step back to the conditions that created the particles or other chemical change interventions might help. Options along these lines include:

• Thermal fogging, where deodorizing chemicals combust in a heated chamber, then disperse and pair with the odor-bearing particles and neutralize them
• Hydroxyl generation, where hydroxyls created by UV light change the soot particles at a molecular level, rendering them odorless
• Oxidation, using an ozone machine

Can we seal the odors inside permeable materials?

If application of the above options does not resolve the malodors, using paint or other surface preparations might seal the odoriferous substances inside the affected materials. In the case of penetration of odor-bearing particles into inaccessible structures such as building cavities or the rafters of your home, the targeted or broadcast spraying of a sealing agent could help eliminate the vaporization of the smell.  

What If the Smell Is in the HVAC System?

We have crews that can deep-clean the ductwork of your heating and cooling system, limiting the continuing circulation of the odors throughout your home. Changing filters is another option. Persistent smells within the HVAC ducts can be managed by a sealing procedure as well, particularly if areas within the duct configuration are difficult to clean thoroughly.

SERVPRO of North Orange County and South Orange County uses research-based protocols to eliminate the stench of household fire from your residence as part of a complete damage recovery project. Call us at (845) 342-3333 as soon as officials allow entry so we can assess and plan to make it "Like it never even happened," down to the elusive presence of malodors.

Why Is Fire and Smoke Damage Cleanup in Newburgh Homes Necessary?

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's Green Fleet arrives as the fire trucks depart--We're Faster To Any Size Disaster in Newburgh

For Efficient House Fire Cleanup in Newburgh Homes - Call SERVPRO

A fire can ignite from the most unlikely sources. For example, a lighted candle is a potential fire hazard if not monitored, and you should not burn it near flammable items such as drapes, furniture, or flammable decorations. Kids and pets can also knock it over, so you should not place a candle within their reach. Identifying such risks can help keep your Newburgh property safe.

Even so, a fire could still happen and the need for fire and smoke cleanup at your Newburgh home is recommended. The smoke dissipates quickly, finding its way around the house, especially the cooler areas, coating surfaces and items in soot and odor. Smoke can negatively impact porous materials such as furniture, carpets, or clothing. In addition, you might find yourself grappling with lingering smoke. SERVPRO technicians can determine the best products and techniques to restore your property to its preloss condition.

Factors that determine the removal of smoke residue

• The type of material burned
• Type of surface
• The amount of heat
• Duration of the blaze

How to Deal with Smoke Residue Effect on Different Materials

Depending on how the fire started, the type of material and surface affected, the smoke and soot produced tends to behave differently, and you could experience distinct damage. Natural materials have dry smoke that our team can remove using a low alkaline detergent and a sponge. On the other hand, Wet smoke results from synthetic materials like foam, rubbers, and plastics, which can be stubborn to remove and require stronger detergents or specialized cleaning equipment. It might be necessary to strip off surfaces to remove such residues in some cases.

Different types of smoke residues

• Dry smoke residue
• Wet smoke residue
• Protein smoke

SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County provides the best fire and smoke damage cleanup services in your home. Call us at (845) 342-3333. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Middletown Homeowners – Avoid Fire Damage in Advance

1/23/2022 (Permalink)

Checking the battery or making sure your smoke detector is working yearly is essential. Should your home have had a fire, contact team SERVPRO.

Always Protect Your Middletown Property, But SERVPRO is Here for Fire Damage

Many fire damaged homes could have been saved sooner if they had working fire alarms installed. Efficient, reliable smoke detectors installed throughout your Middletown home can protect it, your family, and pets from severe fire damage. SERVPRO would like you to know that we are always available around the clock should a disaster strike, but we also want area residents to be safe.

When it comes to fire damage in Middletown, SERVPRO has our Green Fleet ready to deploy within hours of your call. We get to work as soon as possible, restoring versus replacing your materials wherever possible. In the meantime, you should always be proactive to keep your home and family protected. While a smoke detector cannot keep a fire from igniting, it will help you minimize dangers and damage.

Preparedness is Vital

As a homeowner, these are steps you can take in the future to help prevent a fire from overtaking your home. For example, these are some helpful smoke alarm safety tips:

• Have smoke detectors installed throughout each level of your home
• Do not install alarms too close to the kitchen as it can lead to false activation
• Always test smoke alarms monthly with the test button
• Replace smoke alarm batteries once a year – if you hear any of them chirping, this means the battery is low, and it should get replaced as soon as possible
• If your smoke alarms are ten years or older, it is time to replace them

Should you experience a fire, get in touch with your insurance provider and our team at SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County as soon as possible. We can deploy our fire damage crew to begin assessments and restoration to make your home “Like it never even happened.” We can be reached 24-7 for emergency response at (845) 342-3333.

What Is the Appropriate Approach to Combat Fire Damage in Newburgh Properties?

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage residues will remain long after a fire. Call our certified SERVPRO team to assess and formulate a fire damage remediation plan for you.

SERVPRO Develops a Response Plan that Addresses All Effects of a Fire Simultaneously

Fire is both destructive and disruptive. After an incident at your Newburgh property, you need to address all damages to restore normalcy and do it cost-effectively. You need an appropriate restoration approach to achieve both goals.

Before you start resolving the problems caused by fire damage at your Newburgh property, you need to understand the loss clearly. That way, you can develop a proper response plan. SERVPRO helps by inspecting the destroyed sections of your property to establish issues like residue types left by smoke and the extent of heat and flame damage.

An appropriate response to fire damage should:

• Remove all residues
• Restore any salvageable materials
• Refinish contents and structural materials

Fire residues cause many problems, including ruining the visual appeal of surfaces and leaving pungent smells. Thorough removal of such residues is essential to restore preloss conditions. Our SERVPRO crews can facilitate that since we use several cleaning methods, including vacuuming, pressure washing, and wiping surfaces with chemical sponges.

Damage from the fire can destroy materials partially or completely. Partially damaged materials can be salvaged through skillful and timely intervention. Some typical salvageable materials include solid wooden furniture and structural materials charred by heat or flames. Our SERVPRO IICRC-certified technicians check the charring depth before deciding whether items are salvageable. Then we can use a method such as sanding or blast cleaning to remove the residues. 

Refinishing materials also help eliminate traces of fire damage and involves:

• Special cleaning to remove yellowing
• Repainting materials
• Reupholstering 

SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County crafts unique responses to fire loss, eliminating all traces of damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (845) 342-3333.

Can I DIY Fire Damage Clean-Up in My Newburgh Home?

9/25/2021 (Permalink)

What? Firemen are not DIY'selfers fire damage cleanup and demolition? They call SERVPRO.

Let Experts Like SERVPRO Handle the Fire Damage in Your Newburgh Home!

When your home suffers a small fire, you may become tempted to try and remediate the damage by yourself to save costs. However, many do not realize what they are getting themselves into when they consider such a task. You may discover it was not cheaper to try and do it yourself and end up rather stressed over the entire process.

However, here at SERVPRO, we already have the expertise and equipment to provide Newburgh fire damage remediation services to your home. Even small jobs require specialized cleaning products designed to break down soot. Furthermore, you may find you need a license to access some products you may need for remediation.

Instead of stressing, allow our expert technicians to use our advanced technology to remediate the small fire in your home. Visualize a cooking fire in your kitchen. Your fire extinguisher has left residues, and the smoke has left soot caked onto your counters and backsplash. To take care of the residue, the soot, and the malodor, our technicians could use:

• Thermal foggers
• Specialize cleaning products
• Cleaning techniques learned from specialized training

We tackle every aspect of fire damage, including the smell. Thermal foggers neutralize airborne particles, which are responsible for the malodor. We could also set up air scrubbers with carbon filters, to pull particles out of the air and trap them.

Instead of stressing, and doing the hard work yourself, let our technicians come in and do the job swiftly. You can focus on your everyday life, and we can use advanced technology to try and return your kitchen to its normal state. Our goal is always to take the pressure off your shoulders, so you can go about your everyday life while we do the hard work.

Should fire damage impact your property, never hesitate! Speak with SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County by calling (845) 342-3333. We can help you feel "Like it never even happened."

What you can Do When Fire Damage Impacts your Newburgh Bathroom

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can handle any size fire damage restoration service you need for your home or property. Call now for fast and immediate service.

Call SERVPRO For Fast and Expert Newburgh Fire Damage Services!

Small or large fires can break out anywhere inside of your home, and sometimes with minimal warning. Most people visualize chaos and utter destruction when they think of a home fire. They think of firefighting forces running out of a building about to collapse with a beloved pet in their arms. However, the truth is that there are far more fires that are much smaller in nature every year. 

If you need Newburgh fire damage remediation services, waiting is not an intelligent choice. Quick decisions can save belongings, cut down costs, and make remediation easier. In the cases of large fires, quick actions can help salvage parts of your home. 

Visualize a small bathroom fire inside of your home. A wax heater for home beauty care malfunctioned and started a small electrical fire. The heater overheads and the plastic pieces melt on your vanity. Other cosmetic products have melted as well, making a molten and smelly mess. 

SERVPRO can handle any fire damage you throw our way. It doesn't matter how the accident happened; we can fix it. Our highly trained technicians use advanced equipment for fire and smoke remediation. Some examples include: 

• Specialty cleaning solutions
• Industry-grade air scrubbers with carbon filters 
• Odor-locking priming paint 

After removing debris and ruined cosmetics, our SERVPRO technicians can focus on remediating the soot in your bathroom with our specialty equipment. Our goal is to leave your home free of the evidence, so you can feel "Like it never even happened." 

If your home requires fire remediation solutions, do not wait. Call SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County by dialing (845) 342-3333. We're available for you 24/7!

Should Homeowners Handle Fire Cleanup Themselves?

5/23/2021 (Permalink)

Regardless whether the fire was major or minor, cleanup is an issue. Call our SERVPRO team for a fast response. We are standing by 24/7 for you.

SERVPRO Pros Can Mitigate Fire Damage to Newburgh Homes

A home can experience significant damage from a fire. Tackling the cleanup on your own, or delaying restoration, can cause secondary damage that may be irreversible. It is critical to call in a professional restoration such as SERVPRO immediately.

Fire Damage Cleanup is Not a DIY Project

When fire damage impacts a Newburgh home, especially if it gets contained quickly, many people think they can handle cleaning and restoration on their own. But there are many reasons this is not a good idea, including:

• You could inhale smoke residue
• If the structure is weak, it could collapse
• Attempting to clean could cause the soot residue to spread
• Using DIY products can cause more damage
• Insurance may not cover homeowners doing the cleaning

Even after intensive cleaning, smoke odors can linger. Our Green Team has the expertise and equipment to seek out and eliminate the foul odors.  We use things like air scrubbers to pull airborne particles and odors from the air.  We use a specialized cleaning process that involves agitative cleaning to restore fire damaged services. Everything we do is designed to get you back in your home as quickly as possible. For fire damage cleanup, contact SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County at (845) 342-3333.

Why is SERVPRO The Top Choice of Newburgh Residents for Fire Damage Cleanup?

4/25/2021 (Permalink)

Affected by recent fire or smoke damage? Contact our SERVPRO team for effective remediation services. Our technicians are ready to help!

SERVPRO Brings Years of Experience and Expertise to Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration in Newburgh

The crown jewel of the Poughkeepsie–Newburgh–Middletown metropolitan area, Newburgh is one of the most iconic cities of New York state. It is often lovingly referred to as 'the birthplace of the republic' because of what went down here during the Revolutionary War. 

The city served as the headquarters of the Continental Army from March 1782 until late 1783. It is here that the infamous 'Newburgh Conspiracy' took shape. General George Washington successfully persuaded his officers to stay loyal to him, and the conspiracy was squashed.

In Newburgh, Washington received the famous Newburgh letter from Lewis Nicola proposing that he become the king. However, George Washington rebuked the proposal strongly and refused to become the king, and thus laid the republic's foundation.

A Historical City with Lots to See and Do

The picturesque city of Newburgh has a lot to offer to the tourists. From some of the most well-preserved historical sites to fancy eateries, the city has it all. Some of the places that you can't miss if you are in the town include:

• George Washington’s Headquarters: George Washington used Hasbrouck House as his military headquarters during the Revolutionary War. The house is now a museum offering a glimpse into the past. A short (25 minute) tour covers some of the fascinating details about the General's time here.
• Historical City Tour: Rows of ornate and eclectic houses along Montgomery street and Grand street are a sight to behold.
• Choppers Headquarters and Motorcyclepedia: The city of Newburgh is home to the Orange County Choppers headquarters and the Motorcyclepedia Museum. A must-visit destination for any motorcycle enthusiast. 
• The Newburgh Waterfront: The view is just amazing. A paved walking path connects some of the best restaurants the city has to offer. Grab a bite to eat while basking in the gorgeous view of the Hudson. Cruises are also on offer from May to October.

Newburgh, NY, is located just 60 miles North of New York City and near the Stewart International Airport.

How SERVPRO handles Fire and Smoke Remediation Process in Newburgh homes? 

Fire damage restoration is a complex process requiring several steps. SERVPRO experts draft a plan of action depending on the type of fire at your Newburgh property. One of the most common types of fires is Protein fires. These are fast-moving fires that produce high heat and heavy soot. The soot and smoke can cause extensive destruction of the property.

Here are some of the steps SERVPRO technicians take during the initial phase of the fire restoration process:

• Conducting thorough inspections
• Boarding up the structure for safety
• Dry the structure
• Establish emergency electricity for house fire cleanup
• Deodorize using thermal foggers or air scrubbers

Every fire is different, and the strategy to mitigate the fire damage is also different. SERVPRO technicians have years of experience and expertise dealing with fire-damaged homes.

Call SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County at (845) 342-3333 today for reliable and efficient service.

Who Helps with Fire Damage to Middletown Household Goods?

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage? SERVPRO has you covered. We are your one stop shop to handle all of your fire damage restoration needs.

SERVPRO’s Contents Technicians Support After Middletown Fires 

More than just structural components suffer when fire attacks a Middletown residence. The furnishings, household goods, and personal possessions filling a house make it a home. A fire restoration company stops short of what is required if provisions are not made to undo the damage inflicted on the contents by the smoke, soot, heat, and flames.

How Can Fire Recovery Professionals Protect the Heart of a Home?

Special care is essential during fire restoration in Middletown to bring residue covered, malodorous, and charred possessions back to pre-blaze condition. Fast action to remove articles from the wet, sooty, and smoky environment is critical. Packing out items to SERVPRO’s production facility allows:

• Evaluation and documentation of damage for insurance purposes
• Matching of residue-affected things with appropriate, research-based cleaning techniques like dry cleaning, wet cleaning, immersion cleaning and ultrasonic cleaning
• Drying and Disinfecting, especially for articles soaked by firefighting water
• Deodorization of items

Contact the team of experts at SERVPRO of North Orange County for help after fire damages your home’s contents. We respond 24/7 when contacted at (845) 342-3333.

SERVPRO Assists Newburgh Residents with Home Restoration After a Fire

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Regardless of the room that it affects, fire damage can overwhelm your home. Contact our certified team immediately for fire damage remediation servi

Newburgh is a Historically Significant City with Ties to The American Revolution

Along the Hudson River, Newburgh, NY, offers both historical and architectural landmarks and industrial contributions. Being only 60 miles from New York City, Newburgh is a hub in the Downstate area, with the Stewart International Airport at its center, making for easy travel in and out of the area. While Newburgh is close enough to commute to the Metropolitan New York area, it is also just 90 miles south of Albany, nestled in the Hudson Valley, making it a central location between New York City and the capital.

Newburgh developed on the Hudson and is an industrial center beginning in the 19th century. The proximity to New York City gave many opportunities for industrial ventures. Mills sprung up along the Quassaick, Gidneytown, and Tent Stoney Meadow Creeks. Wool, black powder for gunpowder, and grist for minting coins all came from Newburgh mills. Even today, large power generating stations function along the Hudson to provide electricity to the entire Downstate area.

Newburgh and the American Revolution

Newburgh is one of the oldest cities in New York, officially established in 1763 by a law passed by the General Assembly of New York State. The town legally-established itself even before New York State joined the union as the eleventh state in 1776. Newburgh holds historical significance for the country for more than one reason. It is often praised as the birthplace of historic preservation in the United States, but it also has historical relevance to the American Revolution. Events occurring in Newburgh may have changed our nation's direction if not for General George Washington's influence.

Newburgh Conspiracy 1783

During the American Revolution, the Continental Army had its headquarters in Newburgh. At the end of the American Revolution, some members of the Continental Army were dissatisfied with their working conditions. More importantly, they were not happy with their lack of consistent and reliable pay. Congress previously committed to giving half-pay to soldiers after retirement with funds from taxation. However, the states were not paying owed taxes consistently, meaning there were no funds for the promised pensions.

The Congress of the Confederation and Continental Army Were at Odds with Each Other 

• Anonymous members of the Continental Army wrote an ultimatum demanding pay or they would revolt. 
• Soldiers were dissatisfied due to this lack of pay, especially since it was promised to them. 
• Pensions were not coming to fruition, and some soldiers were not paid, leaving them primed to revolt, especially after fighting for years. 

General Washington Stopped the Revolt 

• Washington used his superior public speaking skills and personal conviction to defuse the situation by asking his officers to stay loyal to Congress. 
• He gave a personal, persuasive plea, at one point indicating that fighting for his country had aged him beyond his years, making it, so he had trouble seeing. 
• Washington instilled great loyalty with his officers through genuine conviction and personal connections, convincing them to continue. 
• By convincing officers to remain on course, General Washington may have even saved the American Revolution's outcome.

Newburgh Has a History of Significant Fires

Historic preservation and industry at the heart of Newburgh increase the probability of fire in both businesses and homes. Historically speaking, Newburgh suffered more than one devastating fire. In the late 1800s, fires destroyed a tannery and an ironworks factory, causing extensive damage to the city. Several other industry-caused fires occurred in both shipyards and train and boxcars.

Present-day Newburgh residents should be aware of fire risks, especially during winter months when wood stoves are more prominent, particularly in older homes. Many Newburgh homes, especially in the East End Historic District, date back to the early 1800s.

Homes in the East End Historic District Range in Style 

• Federal Style inspired by Ancient Rome 
• Greek Revival Style row houses  
• Gothic Revival Style 
• Early 20th Century Colonial and Tudor Revivals

The wide range of architectural design in homes makes the East End unique. Historical preservation is highly valued in Newburgh, with the philosophy of repairing with like materials rather than replacing in the interest of historic integrity.

In addition to preserving homes with historical significance in the East End only for preservation's sake, New York State offers a substantial tax credit for historically appropriate projects to rehabilitate some residential properties. There are requirements set out by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the local Architectural Review Commission (The ARC). There may also be Federal Tax incentives for restoration projects, depending on your particular situation.

SERVPRO Understands the Importance of Restoring Homes After a Fire

Newburgh is a city full of history and diverse architectural designs. Our SERVPRO team is local to the Newburgh area and understands the town's historical significance and the potential structural implications of even the smallest fire.

Our trained fire restoration team meets with the property owner to discuss restoration goals, together creating a plan of action to ensure comprehensive repairs to the home. It is essential to understand that fire restoration often requires a multi-faceted approach depending on the severity of damage and type of fire.

Fire damage May Include:

• Structural damage to the home, which may also include building materials. 
• Extensive smoke damage with odor and residue throughout the home. 
• Damaged or destroyed personal belongings and contents.

Our professionals may choose to remove items from the home for cleaning and repair. If this is necessary, technicians inventory your valued belongings throughout the entire process keeping them safe. While one team works to clean your items in an offsite location, another team may work on the structure of your home.

Our locally owned and operated franchise is very familiar with Orange County and the surrounding area and knows how important it is to repair with historical integrity in mind. We make it, "Like it never even happened." 

If you need help restoring your home and its contents after a fire, contact SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County anytime at (845) 342-3333.

Get A Bird’s Eye View Of Middletown With A Balloon Ride

11/27/2020 (Permalink)

It will be exciting to see the community having fun at Above The Clouds!

Rise Above It All and Enjoy An Adventure Like No Other

If you are looking for something different to do or an unusual gift to give this winter season, why not take to the skies in a hot air balloon?

Above The Clouds offers breathtaking hot air balloon rides. You can choose from a traditional four-person basket or a larger basket that holds up to eight people in their own partitions, so each member of the party gets a front-row seat.

• Balloon rides take you over the beautiful Lower Hudson Valley with its rolling hills, quiet streams, and quaint towns.
• Early fliers frequently see red-tailed hawks and wild deer.
• Every flight ends with a champagne toast.
• Each guest receives a commemorative picture.

Flights run every day, and costs start at $345 per person.

Thankfully Above The Clouds puts safety first – and when it comes to your home, we hope you will too. Adequate fire safety and working smoke alarms can help keep your home safe from fire. If you need fire and smoke restoration, call SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County at (845) 342-3333.

Where Can Property Owners Seek Help After a Fire Ruins a House and Some Belongings?

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the know-how to restore your fire damaged home and belongings.

SERVPRO Professionals in Newburg Can Handle the Fire Damage in Affected Properties

Fire can cause significant destruction to your Newburg property, and if you delay the restoration process, the secondary damage can be irreversible. It is essential to contact a reliable fire restoration firm like SERVPRO within 24 hours after the unfortunate incident. We respond within the shortest time feasible since we understand how fast the secondary damage can spread in your property.

How fast is the restoration process?

Every damage situation is unique. The time our restorers can take to handle the fire damage in your Newburg home depends on:

• The number of rooms damaged by the fire
• The intensity of the damage
• Materials burned during the incident

Our technicians can clean your property quickly and efficiently. It can take a few days to complete the restoration process.

Can I inspect my property after the incident?

At SERVPRO, we advise our customers not to enter the property after a fire. Post-fire hazards include:

• Inhaling smoke and soot residues
• Spreading the smoke and soot residues on various surfaces
• Risking collapse since the structure could be weak after the fire

Can I clean the affected area myself?

Cleaning various surfaces in the affected property using home remedies and cleaning products can cause more damage. Besides, the restoration process requires trained and experienced persons to avoid incurring huge losses and expensive repairs. Our restorers have innovative equipment and products that help us to minimize damage. We also have protective gear that protects us from inhaling smoke residues.

Surfaces with heavy soot and smoke residues can be challenging for inexperienced homeowners to clean. Our restorers can use abrasive powders or roto pads and brushes to agitate the surface for easy cleaning. We can then vacuum the massive deposits from the surface to keep the loose particles from spreading.

Can technicians eliminate the smoke odor?

Smoke odors can linger even after heavy cleaning. The smells can hide in hard to reach areas or confined spots. We can use injection devices such as syringe and needle to inject small amounts of deodorant into the confined area. Since the odor may continue to persist, we can use air scrubbers to extract the airborne particles, gases, and odors from the air. The equipment drives indoor air through several filters to capture the odor particles and gases. It then exhausts fresh air back into the structure.

Even a small fire can jeopardize the safety and comfort of your family. Call SERVPRO of North Orange County and SERVPRO of South Orange County at (845) 342-3333 for effective restoration services that can make the fire loss seem, “Like it never even happened.” 

Avoid Delays When Dealing With Newburgh Fire Damage 

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Take precautions against having a fire in your home. But if your home does suffer from a fire, contact SERVPRO for effective remediation services.

Addressing Garage Fire Damage in Newburgh

Property loss in home fires all over the United States incur staggering costs: in 2018 alone, $8 billion worth of residential property was lost in home fires. No matter the source, homeowners must be vigilant to minimize risk to their homes. However, when a disaster does strike, there is a team that is always ready to assist you. 

If your Newburgh residence needs professional-grade fire damage cleanup, SERVPRO technicians are only a phone call away from rendering mitigation services that return your home to a preloss condition. Fire damage can quickly corrode surfaces, particularly metals and plastics, over time, and require specialized care to remove damage and odors. While consumer-grade products are not made to address these disasters, SERVPRO tools and cleaning solutions can tackle them for you quickly and easily. 

Minimizing Garage Fire Risks

Fires can quickly render a garage a total loss and spread to the rest of your home. Use these tips to keep your property safe and minimize loss: 

• Never use an extension cord as a permanent power source for an appliance and avoid overloading outlets.
• The wall and door separating an attached garage from the rest of the home should be fire rated.
• Store a fire extinguisher near the garage's exit so you can safely douse a small fire before it can spread. 
• Contain flammable liquids like gasoline and motor oil in a space far away from potential ignition hazards.
• Never block exits in your garage and always have a quick escape plan in the event of a fire. 

SERVPRO Removes Residues

Fire damage requires special care to remove from a variety of surfaces. If your tools are covered in soot and soils from a fire, SERVPRO techs have a variety of methods available for restoring them. Dry-cleaning measures can eliminate loose, dry deposits from surfaces, while wet-cleaning techniques, including immersion and scrubbing, are effective for light to medium damages. Heavy soiling can usually be addressed with immersion in oil-based solvents. 

SERVPRO of North Orange County leaves disaster-affected homes looking, "Like it never even happened." When you need a cleanup service that you can count on, call (845) 342-3333.

Click here for more information about Newburgh.

Outlet Fire in Warwick NY

11/15/2019 (Permalink)

The fire occurred within the wall and was not found until the burned area showed. This homeowner is extremely lucky.

We were called out last week to a homeowner who luckily found this happening next to one of her outlets. She called the fire department immediately, and fortunately, there was no fire active behind the wall. The electrician arrived on site at the same time as SERVPRO. This scenario was one of the first times that the electrician has seen this happen. 

What happened was that there was a mouse behind the wall eating the wire to that outlet. As you can see, it caused a fire to go down the main electrical line in the wall. 

Unfortunately, the only way to keep an eye out for this is to walk around your house and check the outlets for any possible melted spots or black soot coming out of them. It is essential to be aware that this is a possibility. 

SERVPRO is here to help, even if it is not a substantial loss to your home. We can help with any size damage from large to small. 

Prevent Fire Damage in Newburgh NY

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

This picture shows how a small kitchen fire can escalate quickly causing additional damage.

Each day there is a worry that a fire might occur in your home. There is not always a way to prevent a house fire. 

Here are some tips to keep in mind to do what you can to prevent a house fire:

1. Test your smoke alarms regularly. Each time change, change the batteries

2. Inspect all heating sources in the home. This includes pilot lights and candles. Make sure all candles are only burning when you are in the room.

3. Maintain and clean your dryer vents. Lint mustn't fill up the dryer vent.

4. If you are cooking, do not leave your kitchen. The most important one is boiling water or frying chicken. It is vital to make sure you keep an eye on whatever you are cooking. 

These are a few short steps you can keep in mind when being fire safe in your home. 

Check out our website for more details!

Fire Damage in Chester New York

7/7/2019 (Permalink)

Photo shows the cause of loss area where most of the severe fire damage was contained to in Chester NY.

This fire damage occurred around 6 PM at night. There was a homeowner of a neighboring unit who saw the smoke starting to exit the garage. He called the fire department immediately. The fire department arrived onsite but was a little to late. The fire engulfed the middle unit of a five unit building. Most of immediate damage was contained to the main unit in the middle which is shown in the photo. Unfortunately the homeowners lost everything in their home. 

SERVPRO was called in to help the neighboring units as well as board up the windows of the standing units. This was all completed on a Saturday. SERVPRO was able to help each homeowner individually with their different needs. We were able to pack out the salvageable contents, clean contents they were looking to save and threw out materials that were burnt. 

The property manage also hired SERVPRO of Orange County to clean up the debris from the fire department and burnt building material that was in the driveways. We helped in all aspects. 

SERVPRO is always here to help. 

Winter Season Puffbacks/Smoke Damage

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

In the photo, you can see where we tested the ceiling for soot.

Damages in a home may not cause physical damage to the structure but could create smoke or soot to go all over the house in every nook and cranny possible. These losses are better known as Puff Backs. This type of damage caused by a malfunction in a furnace that produced smoke and soot to go throughout the home through all the vents or baseboard heat. There are times that this type of loss could be worse than small fire damage. Since most houses have vents and/or baseboard heat in every room, the soot gets to every area. 

In certain cases, puff backs can happen over some time and are not even noticed for months. Most of the time this is still covered through your insurance company due to you not being aware of what was happening. We also fully check everywhere in the home. Checking insures that every where they have soot is cleaned properly with proper products and put back to preloss condition. 

These are severe cases where the need for painting or full pack out of houses from a puff back is necessary. Puff backs at this severity are visibly extremely dark soot. 

SERVPRO is always ready to help with these types of losses as well. 

Steps to Take After a House Fire

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & So. Ulster Counties.

nervous, worried, scared, upset, wondering what to do next, and just how to do it.  First things first…take a deep breath, try to relax, and know that everything will be more than fine. Ultimately you need to make sure that your family is safe and sound. Once you can confirm that, then you can tackle the recovery process of your home and belongings.

We’ve compiled a list of five things that you should do and be aware of after a fire.  This way, you can approach the rebuilding of your home in a cool, calm, and collected manner!

(1) Review with the authorities and the professionals as to when it is safe to enter the home after the fire.  The fire department will make sure that the fire is completely extinguished and then will go through their precautionary measures in order to deem the area ‘safe’.

(2) Know who to contact. First, contact any family members to let them know of the occurrence and the fact that you are safe. Review, and then contact your insurance company. A clean-up team, such as SERVPRO of Orange County should also be one of the first calls made.  We can efficiently and professionally get you back into your home – it will be as if nothing happened!

(3) Get the fire report. Typically coming to you from the fire department, this correspondence will review the facts of the fire – the home structure, the area of the fire, as well as the time and date. In some cities and towns, you may need to call the fire department directly in order to get a copy of this report.

(4) Make sure to secure your property.  If you are not securing the property, you could potentially be making a bad situation into a terrible one – your home could be robbed of its remaining property, or, in some cases, another individual could be injured on the property (becoming your responsibility). You can ask the authorities and emergency services on the best methods in securing what is yours.

(5) Begin the clean-up process. Interior and exterior clean-up will most certainly be required, and more often than not there is damage that you cannot locate with the naked eye.  That said, you should definitely hire a professional service like SERVPRO of Orange County to do a thorough cleaning of all areas and of all soot, smoke, and odor.

Eliminating Heating Hazards This Winter

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives.

Eliminating Heating Hazards This Winter

The winter season is in full swing! The days are shorter and temperatures are lower. No matter where you live, winter brings a change in weather. In an effort to keep our homes and workplaces cozy, many people use alternative heat sources like fireplaces, portable space heaters, and wood burning stoves. According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment is responsible for an estimated $893 million in property damage annually. Heating is the second leading cause of residential fire deaths, making it important to review ways to help reduce the risk of a heating-related fire. 

-Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove or portable space heater. Have a three foot "Kid-free zone" around open fires and space heaters. 

-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. 

-Make sure 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. 

-Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional. 

-Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer's instructions. 

Smoke Alarms Save Lives

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 install 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 detectors requirements are met. 

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

Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance. 

-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 a 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.

Fire Damage Mitigation in Orange County

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke can travel into many areas of your home or business leaving behind an unpleasant odor.

SERVPRO Uses Deodorization Methods to Rid Your Home or Business of Foul Odors

Sometimes after a fire ignites inside your Orange County home or business, there are more problems that get created than just burnt materials and contents. Smoke created by a blaze often travels to many areas inside. Smoke leaves behind soot residues and pungent, burnt odors.

After any severely burnt materials and contents get replaced, all of the soot residues inside the building get cleaned. SERVPRO’S fire damage techniciansuse specialized chemicals when cleaning that help eliminate foul odors. If unpleasant aromas still exist, then a final deodorization stage takes place.

When deodorizing an area, specific chemicals get used for different situations. Various odors exist based on what materials get burned during the blaze. Some deodorization techniques use chemicals that bond and react with the foul odor particles and neutralize them. Other deodorants mask unpleasant smells with more appealing odors.

To start, we apply deodorants to the air and affected surfaces. Many times deodorization gets accomplished by using hand pumps or electric powered sprayers. In more extreme cases, advanced equipment gets used during the deodorization process.

If our SERVPRO restoration experts believe that spraying chemicals does not complete the job efficiently, then other equipment gets used to create the original environment that caused the burnt odors to exist in the first place. During a fire, combustion causes smoke particles to become microscopic and penetrate many different materials. We use specialized equipment to break down chemicals so that they penetrate materials in the same way that foul odor particles did.

One way to mimic smoke behavior is with a Vaportek system. A Vaportek deodorization system consists of a compound of natural oils sealed by a membrane. The compounds then volatilize into the air and pass through the plastic membrane. Then, air currents distribute the chemicals into the air which react with and neutralize odor molecules upon contact.

Other ways to dispense deodorants into the building in the same way smoke entered, is to use fogging methods. When using a fogging system, deodorizing products get dispensed as finely divided particles in a mist. Depending on the situation we use either a wet fogging or dry fogging system to disperse deodorants into the air.

After an advanced deodorization system gets used inside your home or business, we often use powerful box fans to ventilate the area, so that dense chemicals do not exist in the air. For professional assistance with smoke deodorization call SERVPRO of Orange County any time of the day or night.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration in Orange County, NY

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

Restaurant kitchen fire

If you have a commercial building in that has been damaged by fire, it can be hard to know what to do once the fire has been put out. Not only will the premises be damaged by the fire, but the property may also have suffered water damage from the firefighting team and or sprinkler systems efforts to stop the fire. Other damage to your property may include:

• Discoloration of surfaces
• Corrosion (particularly of porous material)
• Soot damage
• Smoke damage
• Structural weakness or damage

Can I clean the property myself?

Firstly if you must enter the premises ensure that you know it is safe to enter but do not be tempted to try and start cleaning the property yourself. Not only could this be hazardous to you, without specialist equipment and materials you could end up causing more damage which can add to the restoration costs further down the line. If at all possible try to limit the amount of movement within the premises to ensure the minimum amount of soot and ash being entrenched in soft furnishings and carpets which may render them unsalvageable.

The best thing to do is to call our specially trained team who will ask you a few questions to ascertain the extent of your damage and find the best solution to restore your fire-damaged premises. We will then send our expert team of fire damage restorers out to inspect the fire damage and carry out an in-depth assessment. From this, we will decide the best plan of action to restore your premises.

What do Commercial Fire Damage Restoration companies do?

Whether your business is in Orange, Sullivan or So. Ulster Counties, fire damage is devastating and can cause extensive damage to windows, walls, and roofs. This means that it is imperative that your property is properly protected from the elements while the work is taking place.  SERVPRO will make sure that all openings to the outside are boarded and covered up as well as covering any holes in the roof of your premises.

If your premises is also water damaged, the SERVPRO of Orange County will use their specialized equipment to remove all water and moisture from your property using a combination of pumps and dehumidifying units to rid the premises of water before secondary water damage causes further issues.

Once we are sure that there is an acceptable moisture level in the property.  SERVPRO of Orange County  will get to work removing the damage to the surfaces of the property removing all soot and smoke damage. Once this is completed, we can then clean and sanitize all recoverable items to pre-fire damaged conditions where possible using both wet and dry-cleaning methods and give advice where an item is beyond repair. During this process SERVPRO of Orange County will use industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment to remove any lingering odors caused by the fire. If we can save and restore an item, we will, which will save you paying for costly replacements.

Finally, we will start the full restoration process of your commercial premises involving minor repair, which can include replacing damaged drywall, painting and replacing carpet or flooring and also major repair works such as repairing damaged walls and roofs.

Don't let your electrical system cause a fire

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

Fire in a diner caused by a faulty electrical wire

Most of us have grown up using electricity just about every day of our lives. Whether it is plugging in a toaster, watching TV, or even charging a laptop or phone, we’re surrounded by it. Electricity is essential, but can be a huge hazard to us if not used and maintained properly. According to Electrical Safety Foundation International (Esfi.org), home electrical fires account for an estimated 51,000 fires each year, nearly 500 deaths, more than 1,400 injuries and $1.3 billion in property damage. 65% of home fire deaths result from fires in homes with no working smoke detectors. ESFI gave a list of some electrical fire safety tips to keep you and your family informed on the proper electrical safety precautions.

Electrical Fire Safety Tips

• Make sure that there are smoke detectors installed on every floor of the building, inside each room and right outside of every sleeping area to ensure that the alarms can be heard even when sleeping.
• Test smoke detectors monthly to make sure that they’re working properly and have working batteries.
• Have your electrical system inspected by a certified professional to make sure that all of the electrical work meets the National Electric Code safety standards.
• Look and listen for signs of electrical problems such as, flickering or dim lights, buzzing or sizzling sounds from electrical outlets, or insulation and circuit breakers that trip repeatedly. If any of these or any other electrical problems are found, contact a professional as soon as possible for the issue to be inspected.
• Avoid overloading outlets with too many electronics. Consider having more outlets or circuits installed by a professional.
• In homes with children, install tamper resistant devices to keep children from getting electrical shocks or burns.
• Create an evacuation plan that can be used in the event of a fire.

Your home or business just had a fire - now what?

2/17/2018 (Permalink)

Fire does not discriminate - it can happen to anyone.

The first 24 hours after fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings.  SERVPRO can help prevent fire damage from creating long term problems.  

Under normal circumstances, within one hour from notice of a loss, a SERVPRO professional will contact you to arrange a service.  Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO professional will be on site to begin mitigation services.  Finally, within eight business hours, a verbal job briefing will be communicated to the appropriate person.  

Until a trained professional arrives, there are several things you can do to lessen long term damage.

• Limit movement in the home or business to prevent further damage.

• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on carpeted traffic areas to prevent more soiling.

• If electricity is off, empty refrigerator and prop doors open.

• Wipe soot from chrome on faucets and appliances then protect with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.

• Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces.

• Do not attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture.

• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire or water.  

SERVPRO of Orange County professionals provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration.  These services help ensure your property and belongings are restored to preloss condition when possible.

Your home or business had a fire... Now What?

10/31/2017 (Permalink)

We are always here to help no matter what.

The first 24 hours after fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings.  SERVPRO of Orange County can help prevent fire damage from creating long term problems.  

Under normal circumstances, within one hour from notice of a loss, a SERVPRO professional will contact you to arrange a service.  Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO professional will be on site to begin mitigation services.  Finally, within eight business hours, a verbal job briefing will be communicated to the appropriate person.  

Until a trained professional arrives, there are several things you can do to lessen long term damage.

• Limit movement in the home or business to prevent further damage.

• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on carpeted traffic areas to prevent more soiling.

• If electricity is off, empty refrigerator and prop doors open.

• Wipe soot from chrome on faucets and appliances then protect with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.

• Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces.

• Do not attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture.

• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire or water.  

SERVPRO of Orange County's professionals provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration.  These services help ensure your property and belongings are restored to preloss condition when possible.

Why Call SERVPRO?

With over 25 years of experience, our highly trained professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help you make the fire in your home or business “Like it never even happened.”  Call us at 845-342-3333.

Shed Fire

10/31/2017 (Permalink)

Shed fire that caused damage to another shed on the property.

Outdoor fire damage can sometimes happen very unexpected. When we arrived onsite and met with this insured, he was very upset about his shed burning to the ground because of all the memories he kept safe in the shed. SERVPRO is the company to call when you want someone to help walk you through the process. It is not always an easy situation to go through belongings that have burned and will not be able to be saved. 

SERVPRO not only cleans up debris and homes but we can also clean up outside debris from a fire. The steps that will be taken at this home are to inventory what we can, dispose of the items that are non-salvageable and try to clean the items that we can save. Unfortunately this is not always how it works. Sometimes there is nothing to save. 

We are a team that is there to help during any size disaster. Call SERVPRO, we are always here to help. 

Ways You Can Prevent Fires in Orange County Caused by Clogged Dryer Vents

4/21/2017 (Permalink)

The best way to prevent fires, in this case, is to clean out the lint hose often.

Ways You Can Prevent Fires Caused by Clogged Dryer Vents

It is no surprise to most people that having a Orange County fire within the home is incredibly damaging to anything in its path. What you probably may not realize is that, most times, fires can easily be prevented from starting in the first place. Your household dryer is a great example of this since many homeowners deal with dryer related fires all the time and the usual culprit would be a completely clogged dryer vent. In this particular case, the fire can be prevented if you maintain your dryer well throughout the year and ensure that its vent is kept clean and clear of buildup.

There are over 15,000 calls to local fire departments every single year for home-related New York fires and smoke issues. The unfortunate part is that a lot of these fires are caused by clogged dryer vents within the home. Some of these fires are very minimal, but others have been incredibly damaging when not caught in time.

To understand how these types of New York fires start within the home, you may want to know more about how dryers work. Some homeowners who are new to appliances and home maintenance may not even know that their dryer needs to be maintained. The way that dryers work is by creating hot air in the drum itself, and this is the hot air that is going to dry up your clothing. You probably know of the small lint trap on the front of your dryer when you open its door, but excess lint passes through this filter and goes through the dryer vent. The dryer vent is often located on the outside of your home so that the hot air can be released outside. Because dryers get so hot, this hot air that is being pushed out of the dryer vent to the outside world can heat up any lint that has built up in that area and start a fire. Fires related to clogged dryer vents can cause tons of damage to a person's home.

The best way to prevent fires, in this case, is to clean out the lint hose often. This is recommended to anyone who happens to own a dryer. There are special tools and services that can help to get this particular vent cleaned for you.

According to the experts at SERVPRO, they offer some of the best tips for watching out for some of the obvious warning signs that your dryer is clogged and may result in fire at some point in the near future: 1. If it takes longer than about 45 minutes to dry your clothing, it could be a sign that the dryer vent is clogged. 2. Your clothes are roasting hot to the touch after they have gone through a dry cycle. 3. The flapper on the dryer's vent may not open entirely when the appliance is actually on.

Preventing a Fire with Your Dryer 1. You should clean the vent of your dryer at least twice each year. 2. Make sure to clean out the lint trap inside of the dryer thoroughly before each cycle. 3. For those individuals who are noticing any of the above-mentioned warning signs, make sure to contact a professional company to have the appliance repaired and cleaned.

For those homeowners who were not so lucky as to catch the warning signs in time, fire damage can be a daunting thing to clean up on your own. This is where the professionals of SERVPRO come in handy, and they can work diligently on your home's fire restoration when it is most convenient for you. Make sure to contact SERVPRO at the first sign of fire damage so that the issue can be addressed immediately.

For Orange County, A Fire Damage Restoration Guide

4/17/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Guide for an Orange County Home

As many homeowners know, fire damage to an Orange County home can produce extensive trauma on the part of the property owner. However, knowing what steps to take following this type of disaster, caused by nature or human error, can help you minimize emotional distress. You will also be better prepared to mitigate structural damage to your home by being clear-headed. Learn more about what steps you should take after your home has been affected by a fire, refer to this quick reference guide:

There are several steps you need to implement once fire damage has become a reality. 

1. Determine Where You Will Stay. 

Once a fire has occurred, it's important that you first determine whether it is safe to reenter your home. This decision to possibly reenter your Orange County house is reserved for minor fires, not flaming infernos. In the event that there are still signs of smoke, fire, or structural damage, you should never attempt to enter the premises. In this case, it may be necessary for you to stay with a family member or in a hotel. Determining where you'll stay is not the first step to take during the process of returning your life to a state of normalcy, but it can provide an anchor. In addition to determining where you'll stay if you cannot reenter your property, it's important for you to call your loved ones and friends. Provide them with a basic overview of the situation and they may be able to help you with shelter and advice.

2. Call The Professionals. 

After you've determined where you'll stay, be sure to contact your insurance company and then a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO. These experts will begin assessing the situation, determining a course of action, and then begin the cleanup, repair and if need be, the restoration of your property's structure. The clean-up process will involve the elimination of smoke and fire damage in addition to water removal. The water extraction procedure is of the utmost importance for lessening damage to furnishings, walls, and floors, and for stifling the growth of mold. A SERVPRO representative will also offer to communicate and coordinate the entire process with your insurance adjuster.

Dealing with your fire-damaged home in Orange County can be taxing and tiring, however, it doesn't need to be overwhelming. As a team of professionals with extensive experience in the smoke and fire damage restoration field, SERVPRO's skilled technicians can provide you with the detailed, results-driven services you need to restore your property to like the fire never happened.

Does Your Home Have a Fire Escape Plan?

2/13/2017 (Permalink)

Every household or commercial business should develop a plan in case of an emergency fire.

Planning a Fire Escape Basics

• There should be two ways to get out of every room, and all members of your household should be aware of them.
• Add escape ladders to areas or homes above the second floor, especially sleeping areas. Train household members in how to use them and store them near windows.
• Practice home fire drills periodically (at least twice a year) so that everyone knows how to do one in less than two minutes. The objective of a fire drill is to practice, not to frighten, so a planned drill can be just as effective.
• Teach younger family members the stop, drop, and roll method for dealing with clothes that have caught fire.
• Make special arrangements in your plan for infants or anyone with a disability. Assign someone to assist disabled family members in case of an emergency.
• Install smoke alarms inside and outside of every sleeping area of your home.
• Find an outside meeting place that’s a safe distance away from your home that everyone can reach after an escape. Make sure everyone is aware of its location.
• Always choose the safest escape route, meaning the one with least amount of smoke and heat. Practice getting low and traveling beneath smoke when you perform a fire drill.
• Close doors on the way out during a fire to slow it down and give you more time to safely escape. In situations where fire prevents you from leaving the home, you should practice “sealing yourself in for safety” as part of your fire escape plan. Put as many doors between you and the fire as possible, and cover air vents to prevent smoke from reaching you. Open windows at the top and bottom so fresh air can get in.
• Under no circumstances should you ever go back inside a burning building. Do not try to retrieve belongings. If someone is still inside, inform the fire department dispatcher when you call. Only a trained firefighter has the skills and equipment needed to perform a rescue.

The Different Types of Smoke

1/27/2017 (Permalink)

A fire loss can result in complex damages because of the unique behavior of smoke. A trained professional should survey the loss site to determine th

Your local SERVPRO of Orange County knows smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor.  Our knowledge of building systems helps us investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. 

Here are some facts you may not know about smoke:

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.

The 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, a SERVPRO of Orange County 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.

Fuel Oil Soot – Furnace Puff Backs

While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO of Orange County can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.

Other Types – Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue

Special loss situations require special care.  SERVPRO of Orange County are trained to handle even the toughest losses.

Six Classes of Fire Damage

8/15/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties is known for their professionalism, expertise and timely responses to all fire damage needs.

The Six Classes of Fire Damage: Your Quick Reference Guide

Although no one wants to experience a fire in their office or home, you never know when this unwanted disaster could transpire. Whether the disaster transpires because of a brush fire or bad electrical wiring, your property could suffer a wide range of adverse, inconveniencing outcomes. There are six classes of Orange County fire damage that your property can be subjected to. Learn more about these classes by reviewing the quick reference guide that appears below:

Six Classes of Fire Damage

1. Class A

This type of fire damage results from combustible items in your household such as rubber, plastics, paper, and wood.

2. Class B

Class B damages pertain to damage that results from liquids. It can also include solid items that became liquefied. Examples include paints, waxes, petrol, and gasoline. This class of Orange County fire damage does not include deterioration resulting from cooking liquids such as corn oil.

3. Class C

This type of fire damage results from flammable gasses. Some flammable gasses include hydrogen, methane, acetylene, and propane.

4. Class D

This kind of fire damage in Orange County  results from combustible metals. Some of them include magnesium, potassium, and titanium. This class is not common given that metals typically direct heat away from the fire.

5. Class E

Class E is a fire damage category that includes electrical equipment while also incorporating the materials from categories A and B. In addition to generating distinct types of damage, this class of fire damage makes it much more challenging to fight the fire.

6. Class F

Class F fire damage results from unsaturated cooking materials such as fats and oils.

Finding The Right Fire Damage Restoration Company

Irrespective of the category of fire damage that surfaces on your property, it is important for you to attain high-quality restoration services as soon as possible. To ensure that you attain the cutting edge, customized fire damage restoration services that you need and deserve, make sure the company you select possesses all of the following attributes:

• A good Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating

• IICRC-certified technicians

• Excellent customer service

• Good online reviews

When you find that your company has been impacted by fire damage, don't wait. Instead, accelerate and optimize the recovery process by obtaining the best restoration services on the block. As a company with more than 30 years of industry experience, the professionals of SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties have built a strong reputation for consistently offering clients the excellent, expedient fire damage restoration services they deserve.

The Fire Is Put Out...Now What?

8/11/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties will make the damage to your house seem “Like it never even happened.

You’ve called 911 and the firefighters have come put out the fire in your home.  While the immediate danger has passed, the fire will continue to damage the home if professionals are not called in.  

Ash and smoke, if left unhindered, will cause extensive corrosion, etching and discoloration, not to mention lingering powerful odors.  

According to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, just minutes after a fire, soot residue settles onto the property.  Discoloration of porous materials is permanent but other surfaces can be cleaned to remove the damage.  If not treated quickly, acidic soot begins staining other surfaces.  

Within hours all surfaces begin to suffer from fire and smoke damage.  Wooden furniture may require refinishing, metal begins to rust, pit and corrode and painted walls begin to yellow.  In addition, some clothing can be permanently stained and your flooring could end up requiring you to refinish or replace it.  

If left untreated, within weeks the restoration process will take longer and cost you more.  The prolonged soot exposure can ruin some of your belongings and is also not good for you and your family’s health.

If a professional isn’t hired to clean smoke and fire damage, the costs for restoration will skyrocket after a few weeks. Smoke and soot removal is not a job you should do by yourself.

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan and S.Ulster Counties is here to help you with all of your fire damage needs.  Our trained professionals are available 24/7 and have the cleaning and restoration experience to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.  

For more information on our fire restoration services, click here or call us at 845-342-3333

Fireworks Safety Tips

7/11/2016 (Permalink)

In order to really enjoy fireworks, you have to be safe.

According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, on average, 230 people will go to the emergency per day in the month around the July 4th holiday.  The body parts among the most frequently injured are hands and fingers, the eyes, head, face and ears.  More than 50% of firework injuries were burns.

In order to ensure that your family has a safe summer filled with firework fun, SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties is here to provide you with some firework safety tips from the National Council of Firework Safety:

• Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
• Make sure you are familiar with the fireworks you are using.
• Never give fireworks to children.
• Do not drink while handling or watching fireworks.
• Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
• Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
• Use fireworks OUTDOORS in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
• Never relight a “dud” firework.  Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
• Never carry fireworks in your POCKET or shoot them into METAL or GLASS containers.
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
•  FAA regulations PROHIBIT the possession and transportation of fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage.
•  Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.

To read more about firework safety, visit the National Council on Firework Safety’s Website at www.fireworksafety.org.  To find out specific information regarding fireworks in New York State click here.

Was your home damaged due  to a fireworks mishap?

SERVPRO of Orange, Sullivan & S.Ulster Counties is available 24/7 for all of your fire damage needs.  Just give us a call at 845-342-3333 and we will make it “Like it never even happened.”