Fireplace Catches Fire in Grand Rapids Home?

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration in Itasca County.

Our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing teams respond to fire damage emergencies often during the winter months. Fireplaces, when not properly maintained can become a source of danger. These fires are often started by sparks, embers, and heat escaping the hearth area:

Sparks and Embers: As wood or other fuels burn in the fireplace, they release hot gases and tiny burning particles, including sparks and embers. If a spark or ember escapes the confines of the fireplace, it can land on nearby combustibles like carpets, curtains, or furniture, igniting a fire.

Creosote Buildup: Over time, wood-burning fireplaces accumulate creosote, a highly flammable substance, in their chimneys. If not regularly cleaned, creosote can catch fire, causing a dangerous chimney fire that can spread to the rest of the house.

Cracked or Damaged Chimney: Cracks or damage to the chimney structure can allow heat and sparks to escape into the walls or attic, potentially igniting the structural elements and insulation.

Improper Installation or Use: Inadequate ventilation, incorrect fuel types, or improper installation of fireplaces can lead to incomplete combustion, increasing the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and potential fire hazards.

Neglecting Safety Precautions: Failure to use a screen or spark guard, leaving the fire unattended, or using flammable materials for decoration near the fireplace can all contribute to fire hazards.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Grand Rapids has a fire damage emergency, our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing teams are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

SERVPRO® franchise is independently owned and operated.

Malfunctioning Space Heater Starts Fire in Coleraine Home?

11/27/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Itasca County.

Our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing teams are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration services. During the cold winter months, space heaters are used to take the chill out of rooms. Here are some space heater safety tips for Coleraine residents from Electrical Safety Foundation International:

Space Heater Safety Tips

• Make sure your space heater has a label that a recognized testing laboratory lists.
• Before using any space heater, read the manufacturer’s instructions and warning labels carefully.
• Inspect heaters for cracked or broken plugs or loose connections before each use. If frayed, worn, or damaged, do not use the heater.
• Never leave a space heater unattended. Turn it off when you’re leaving a room or going to sleep, and don’t let pets or children play too close to a space heater.
• Never use a space heater to warm bedding, cook food, dry clothing, or thaw pipes.
• Heaters must be kept at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including papers, clothing, and rugs.
• Locate space heaters out of high-traffic areas and doorways where they may pose a tripping hazard.
• Do not use an extension cord or power strip, which could overheat and result in a fire. Do not plug any other electrical devices into the same outlet as the heater.
• Place space heaters on level, flat surfaces.
• Always unplug and safely store the heater when it is not in use.

Call Us Today!

When your Coleraine home or commercial property needs fire damage restoration services, our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing team will restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing is independently owned and operated.

Hibbing Home Suffers Damage from Halloween Candle Fire?

10/24/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in St. Louis County.

If you use candles at Halloween, you’ll want to read this blog. Our Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing teams see the damage candle fires cause to homes. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, candle fires are one of the leading causes of residential fire damage in the United States. Here are some candle safety tips from the NFPA:

• Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep.
• Keep candles at least 1 foot away from anything that can burn.
• Use candle holders that are sturdy, and won’t tip over easily.
• Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface.
• Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame.
• Don’t burn a candle all the way down — put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container.
• Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home.
• Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles.
• Think about using flameless candles in your home. They look and smell like real candles.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Hibbing has fire damage, our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing team will clean and restore the damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Electric Slow Cooker Appliance Starts Fire in Grand Rapids Kitchen?

10/10/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Itasca County.

Our Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing teams are highly trained and certified to restore fire damage. Today, more people are using electronic cooking appliances to prepare meals. These appliances make it convenient to prepare meals, but it is important to know how to operate these appliances safely to avoid a cooking fire. Here are some safety tips for safely using a slow cooker from the National Fire Protection Association:

Key Safety Tips

• Always use cooking appliances like air fryers, slow cookers, electric skillets, hot plates, griddles, etc., that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on where and how to use.
• Remember to unplug all appliances when not in use.
• Check cords regularly for damage. Do not use any appliance with a damaged cord.

Slow Cooker

A slow cooker is designed to be left on while you do other things, even things outside of the home. However, there are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

• Keep things that could catch fire away from the slow cooker.
• Make sure the slow cooker is in a place where it won’t get bumped. If the lid gets dislodged, the liquid could boil away, which could cause the appliance to overheat and create a fire.

Call Us Today!

When you have fire damage in your Grand Rapids home or business, our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing team will restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Smoke Odor Removal Services Restore Hibbing Home to Pre-Smoke Damage Conditions?

9/12/2023 (Permalink)

We restore fire water damage 24 hours a day in Beltrami County.

Smoke from fires leaves behind a unique signature based on what fueled the fire. Our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing teams pre-tests every surface to ensure we use the most effective method for cleaning and restoration. Here are some examples of the types of equipment we use to remove smoke damage:

Air Scrubber or Filter

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

Ozone Generator

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

Thermal Fogging

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

Hydroxyl Generator

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

Vapor Modification

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

Call Us Today!

Our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing team will restore your fire, smoke, and soot damage in Hibbing “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Children Playing with Fire Cause a Brush Fire in Bemidji Backyard?

8/14/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Beltrami County.

Our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing team responds to fire damage emergencies every year, and some involve accidental fires started by curious children. Here are some tips for preventing children from playing with fire from the  National Fire Protection Association:

• 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
• 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.
• Teach young children never to touch matches or lighters. They must tell a grown-up when matches or lighters are found.
• Establish clear rules and consequences about unsupervised and unauthorized uses of fire.
• Be a good example! Always use fire sources — matches, lighters, candles, fireplaces, and campfires — in a safe manner. Never treat them as toys, or children may imitate you.
• Talk with children about what their friends or other children are doing with fire. What do they see online in video games, TV, movies, and social media? Teach them specific ways to resist the peer pressure to misuse fire.
• Give praise for showing respect and age-appropriate responsible behavior toward fire.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Bemidji has fire damage, our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing team can help! Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flying Embers Cause of Fire Damage to Marble Home?

7/18/2023 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in Itasca County.

Did you know that burning embers can travel as far as five miles and ignite a fire? Our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing teams are on call 24 hours a day to respond to fire damage emergencies in Marble. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), reports that windblown embers can travel up to five miles ahead of a burning fire. Here are some tips from the NFPA for preventing windblown embers from entering attics and crawl spaces through vents:

Inlet Vents

Gable end vents and other vent openings are vulnerable to windblown embers when the face of the vent is perpendicular to the wind flow, while embers are less likely to pass through vents with a face that is parallel to the wind flow. Therefore, soffit eave construction is preferred to open eaves.

Outlet Vents

Opt for a ridge that is rated to resist wind-driven rain. These vents have an external baffle at the vent inlet.

Turbine Vents

Turbine vents also help keep embers out, but you should attach a piece of 1/8-inch mesh to the bottom of the roof sheathing at the opening for the vent.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Marble requires fire damage restoration services, our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing team can help. Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Grease Fire in Grand Rapids Kitchen?

6/13/2023 (Permalink)

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

Our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing teams are highly trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the nonprofit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industries. Cooking fires are one of the top causes of home fires in the United States. Here are some cooking fire safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association for cooking safely:

• 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

Call Us Today!

Kitchen fires are very common, but they can be avoided by staying alert and present in the kitchen while preparing meals. When your home or commercial business in Grand Rapids has a fire damage emergency, our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing team can help. We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Hibbing Home Suffers Soot Damage from Oil Furnace Puff Backs?

3/28/2023 (Permalink)

We clean and restore puff back damage 24 hours a day in St. Louis County.

Our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing has the training and experience to restore soot damage caused by oil furnace puff backs. When this oily soot travels through home ventilation systems, surfaces, and belongings are compromised. This oily soot residue is difficult to remove and will require professional cleaning services. Our technicians are trained and certified to clean and restore soot damage by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). We pretest every surface and item before cleaning to ensure we are using the most effective cleaning method. Here are some examples of cleaning methods we may use to remove soot damage:

• Dry Cleaning - used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning
• Wet Cleaning - an effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues
• Spray and Wipe - effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning
• Foam Cleaning - used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned
• Abrasive Cleaning - involves agitation of the surface being cleaned
• Immersion Cleaning - contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product

Call Us Today!

When you have soot damage from a furnace puff back issue in your Hibbing home or commercial business, our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Seven-Step Process for Restoring Fire Damage in Grand Rapids?

3/7/2023 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in Itasca County.

Our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing has the training and experience to restore fire damage “Like it never even happened.” We follow this comprehensive process as follows:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

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

Step 2: Inspection and Assessment

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

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

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

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

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot

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

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

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

Step 7: Restoration

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

Call Us Today!

Our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing is Here to Help ® when you have a fire damage emergency in your home or commercial business in Bemidji. Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Often Should I Test my Smoke Detectors in my Hibbing Home?

1/24/2023 (Permalink)

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

Have you tested your smoke detectors lately? Smoke alarms are an integral part of a home fire escape plan. Smoke detectors play an essential role in reducing fire deaths in the United States, and working fire alarms give early warnings so you can get outside quickly. Our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing responds to fire damage emergencies every year in St. Louis County and offers these smoke alarm safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Smoke Alarm Safety

• A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. 
• Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound. 
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms
• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions yet mitigate false alarms
• When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside
• Replace all smoke alarms in your home every ten years

Call Us Today!

Our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing is Here to Help ® when you have fire damage in your home or commercial business in Hibbing. Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Candle Fire in My Calumet Home?

12/13/2022 (Permalink)

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

Our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing is highly trained and certified by the?Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification?(IICRC) to restore fire damage in Calumet. This time of year marks many holiday events and social activities. Candles make any party festive, but they can also cause fires. Here are some candle safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association: 

• Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep. 
• Keep candles at least 1 foot away from anything that can burn 
• Use candle holders that are sturdy and won’t tip over easily 

• Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface 
• Light candles carefully, and keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame 
• Don’t burn a candle all the way down — put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container 
• Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home 
• Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles. 

• Think about using flameless candles in your home. They look and smell like real candles. 

Call Us Today!  

Our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing is Here to Help ® when you have a fire damage emergency in your Calumet home or commercial business. Call us today at 218-999-9799.

Franchises are independently owned and operated. 

Flooding in Grand Rapids?

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Itasca County.

Our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing is a trusted leader in storm damage restoration services. Here is some information from our website on things you can do to mitigate the damage while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place
• Gather loose items from floors

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water
• Don't use television or other household appliances
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Call Us!

Storms and flooding events can happen with little advanced warning. Our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing is Here to Help ® when your Grand Rapids home or business has storm damage. Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Kitchen Fire Prevented by Using a Fire Extinguisher in Coleraine?

10/24/2022 (Permalink)

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

In a report published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking was the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries between 2015 and 2019. Our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing is a trusted leader in fire damage restoration services.

Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher can save lives. Here are some tips for operating a fire extinguisher safely:

Fire Extinguisher Safety Tips

• Use a portable fire extinguisher when the fire is confined to a small area, such as a wastebasket, and is not growing; everyone has exited the building; the fire department has been called or is being called; the room is not filled with smoke.
• To operate a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS:
• Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism
• Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly
• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side

Call Us!

You never know if you will experience a fire in your home or workplace, but knowing how to operate a fire extinguisher can help contain a small fire until the fire department arrives. Our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing is Here to Help ® when your Coleraine home or business has fire damage. Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Often Should I Check My Smoke Alarms in Keewatin?

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration in Itasca County.

Smoke alarms play a vital part in a home’s fire escape plan in Keewatin. Working alarms warn people of impending danger so you can get out of the house quickly. Our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing offers these smoke alarm safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Smoke Alarm Safety

• A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. 
• Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound. 
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms
• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions yet mitigate false alarms
• When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside
• Replace all smoke alarms in your home every ten years

Call Us!

When your Keewatin home or commercial business has fire damage, our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Summer Grilling Safety Tips for Deer River?

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

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

Our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing responds to fire damage emergencies every summer. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 10,600 home fires are started by grilling in the United States each year. Deer River residents can minimize the risk of fire damage by following these grilling safety tips from the NFPA:

Propane and Charcoal Grills

• Propane and charcoal barbecue grills should only be used outdoors
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill
• Never leave your grill unattended

Propane Grills

·      Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year

·      Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose

·      A propane leak will release bubbles

Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency in your Deer Creek home or commercial business, our local team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Can I Keep My Elderly Parents Safe From Fire?

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

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

Our team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing restores fire damage in Bemidji every year. Here are some fire safety tips for elderly populations from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Sleeping in a room on the ground floor makes emergency escape easier

• Make sure that smoke alarms are installed in every sleeping room and outside any sleeping areas

• Have a telephone installed where you sleep in case of emergency

• When looking for an apartment or high-rise home, look for one with an automatic sprinkler system. Sprinklers can extinguish a home fire in less time than it takes for the fire department to arrive

• If anyone in your household is deaf or if your own hearing is diminished, consider installing a smoke alarm that uses a flashing light or vibration to alert you to a fire emergency

• Conduct regular fire drills if you or someone you live with cannot escape alone, designate a member of the household to assist, and decide on backups in case the designee isn't home

• Make sure that you can open all doors and windows in your home. Check that windows haven't been sealed shut with paint or nailed shut; if they have, arrange for someone to break the seals all around your home or remove the nails.
  
  

Call Us!

Our Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing team can help when you have fire damage in your home or business. Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Can I Protect My Home from Wildfires in Deer River?

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

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

Our team in Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year. Wildfires can send burning embers flying for as far as five miles that can enter attics and crawlspaces in homes and buildings. Deer River residents can prepare now for wildfires by reinforcing attics and crawl space vents with mesh screening. The mesh screening acts as a barrier to reduce ember entry into the structure. Here is some information on using mesh screening from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Building codes require vent openings to be covered by corrosion-resistant metal screens, typically 1/4-inch to keep rodents. However, research shows that embers can pass through 1/4-inch mesh and ignite combustible materials, notably smaller materials such as sawdust.
• Embers also can enter smaller screening, such as 1/16-inch, but cannot easily ignite even the finer fuels; however, this size screening is more easily plugged with wind-blown debris and is easily painted over if you are not careful when re-painting your house.
• Installing 1/8-inch mesh screening is suggested in wildfire-prone areas, as it effectively minimizes the entry of embers. It’s important to note that 1/8-inch screening only reduces the size and number of embers and does not eliminate them entirely, making it very important to reduce what’s stored in the attic and crawl space.

Call Us!

Our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing team can help when your Deer River home or commercial business needs fire restoration services. Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Fire Prevention Tips for Winter Storms in Coleraine?

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

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

Do you know how to stay safe and prevent fire damage during and after a winter storm? SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing offers these tips from the National Fire Protection Association to keep Coleraine residents fire-free:

• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month
• Install carbon monoxide alarms in your home
• Plan two ways out of the home in case of an emergency. Clear driveway and front walk of ice and snow.
• Make sure your house number can be seen from the street
• Be ready in case the power goes out. Have flashlights on hand. Also, have battery-powered lighting and fresh batteries. Never use candles.
• Stay aware of winter weather. Listen to the television or radio for updates. Watch for bulletins online.
• Check on neighbors. Check on others who may need help.
• Generators should be used outdoors. Keep them away from windows and doors. Do not run a generator inside your garage, even if the door is open.
• Stay away from downed wires. Report any downed wires to authorities.
• Be ready if the heat stops working. Use extra layers of clothes and blankets to stay warm. If you use an emergency heat source, keep anything that can burn at least three feet away.
• Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room. Turn them off when you go to bed.

Call Us!

When fire damages your Coleraine home or commercial business, SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

E-Cigarette Fire in Grand Rapids Home?

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

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

Do you know that e-cigarette batteries can explode? SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing restores fire damage every year, and sometimes the damage comes from cigarettes. Here are some smoking safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Electronic Cigarettes

Never leave charging e-cigarettes unattended. E-cigarettes should be used with caution.

• Battery failures have led to small explosions
• Fires have occurred while e-cigarettes were being used
  • While the battery was being charged
  • While the device was being transported

Smoking Safety

• If you smoke, use only fire-safe cigarettes
• If you smoke, smoke outside. Most deaths result from fires that started in living rooms, family rooms, and dens or in bedrooms.
• Keep cigarettes, lighters, matches, and other smoking materials up high out of the reach of children, in a locked cabinet

Put It Out

• Use a deep, sturdy ashtray. Place it away from anything that can burn.
• Do not discard cigarettes in vegetation such as mulch, potted plants or landscaping, peat moss, dried grasses, leaves, or other things that could ignite easily
• Before you throw away butts and ashes, make sure they are out, and dousing in water or sand is the best way to do that

Call Us!

When you need help with a fire damage emergency in your Grand Rapids home or commercial business, SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing has a team of highly trained technicians on-call and ready to respond day and night. Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

A wood-burning stove is shown heating a room.

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

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

Do you know that more home fires are reported during December, January, and February than any other month in the year? SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing offer these heating safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Install wood-burning stoves following the manufacturer’s instructions or have a professional do the installation. All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
• 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.
• Install and maintain CO alarms to avoid the risk of CO poisoning. If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not light the appliance. Leave the home immediately and call your local fire department or gas company.

Call Us Today!

You never know when you’ll need help with fire damage in Marble, but when you do, SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing is Here to Help. ® We have a team of highly trained fire restoration technicians on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day, and we typically arrive onsite within four hours of your call. Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Space Heater Fire in Bemidji?

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration in Beltrami County.

Do you know that heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States? SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing offer these heating safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Never use your oven to heat your home
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters, or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel-burning space heaters
• 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.
• Install wood-burning stoves following the manufacturer’s instructions or have a professional do the installation. All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
• Install and maintain CO alarms to avoid the risk of CO poisoning. If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not light the appliance. Leave the home immediately and call your local fire department or gas company.

Call Us!

When you need fire damage restoration services for your Bemidji home or commercial business, SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Extinguisher Safety Tips for Hibbing?

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration in St. Louis County.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more home fires occur during the winter months than at any other time of the year in the United States. Knowing how to operate a fire extinguisher can save lives by putting out small fires or containing them until the fire department arrives. SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing offers these tips from the NFPA for using a fire extinguisher:

Safety tips

• Use a portable fire extinguisher when the fire is confined to a small area, such as a wastebasket, and is not growing; everyone has exited the building; the fire department has been called or is being called; the room is not filled with smoke.
• To operate a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS:
  
• Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism
• Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly
• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side

Call Us Today!

When you need fire restoration services for your Hibbing home or commercial business, SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing has a team of technicians on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day. Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Thanksgiving Cooking Safety Tips for Calumet?

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

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

More homes fires break out on Thanksgiving than on any other day of the year. SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing wants everyone in Calumet to have a safe and fire-free Thanksgiving day. Here are some cooking safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• 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 three 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, toys, pocketbooks, or bags
• 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
• Never leave children alone in a room with a lit candle
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working

Call Us Today!

When you need fire restoration services for your Calumet home or commercial business, SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing has a team of technicians on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day. Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Electrical Fire in Grand Rapids?

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

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

My Dad loves to fix things around the house, but when it comes to electrical issues, he always calls a qualified electrician. SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing has been restoring fire damage in Grand Rapids for years. Here are some electrical safety reminders from the National Fire Protection Association:

·      Only use one heat-producing appliance plugged into a receptacle outlet at a time

·      Major appliances should be plugged directly into a wall receptacle outlet. Extension cords and plug strips should not be used.

·      Arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) shut off electricity when a dangerous condition occurs. Consider having them installed in your home.

·      Use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to reduce the risk of shock

·      Check electrical cords to make sure they are not running across doorways or under carpets. Extension cords are intended for temporary use.

·      Use a light bulb with the right number of watts. There should be a sticker that indicates the right number of watts.

Call a qualified electrician or your landlord if you have:

·      Frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers

·      A tingling feeling when you touch an electrical appliance

·      Discolored or warm wall outlets

·      A burning or rubbery smell coming from an appliance

·      Flickering or dimming lights

·      Sparks from an outlet

Call Us Today!

When your Grand Rapids home or commercial business needs fire damage restoration services, SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-999-9799. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Cooking Fire in Deer River?

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

We mitigate fire damage 24-hours a day in Itasca County.

Cooking Fire in Deer River?

SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing responds to fire damage emergencies often in the Deer River area and many of these fires start in the kitchen. Here are some cooking safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

What you should know about home cooking safety

• If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, remain in the kitchen 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 grease fire

• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires
• Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop
• Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled

Call us today!

When you have a fire damage emergency of any size, SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing has a team of restoration technicians on call and ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at 218-999-9799. We’ll clean and restore your fire damage in Bemidji, “Like it never even happened.”  

SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing is Independently Owned and Operated.

Microwave Fire in Bemidji?

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

We mitigate fire damage 24-hours a day in Beltrami County.

Microwave Fires Happen

SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing respond to fire damage emergencies often in the Bemidji area, and in many instances, these fires might have been prevented. Here are some microwave safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association to prevent possible microwave fires:

• PURCHASE a microwave oven that is listed by a qualified testing laboratory
• MAKE sure to complete and return the product registration card. This way the manufacturer can reach you if there is a recall on the product.
• PLUG the microwave oven directly into the wall outlet — never use an extension cord
• MAKE sure the microwave oven is at a safe height, within easy reach of all users
• OPEN food slowly, away from the face
• FOOD heats unevenly in microwave ovens. Stir and test before eating or giving to children.
• NEVER heat a baby bottle in the microwave. Since a microwave oven heats unevenly, it can create hot pockets, leading to burns.

If you have a fire in the microwave, leave the door closed, turn off the oven and unplug it from the wall. If the fire does not go out, get outside and call the fire department.

Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency of any size, SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing has a team of restoration technicians on call and ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at 218-999-9799. We’ll clean and restore your fire damage in Bemidji, “Like it never even happened.”  

SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing is Independently Owned and Operated.

Smoke Alarm Safety Tips for Grand Rapids

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

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

At SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing, we respond to fire damage emergencies throughout the year and know that smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. Here are some smoke alarm safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

SAFETY TIPS

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom and outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home
• Install alarms in the basement
• It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms so when one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound
• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Current alarms on the market employ different types of technology including multi-sensing, which could include smoke and carbon monoxide combined
• A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least ten feet from the stove.
• People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are ten years old

Call Us!

Call Us!

SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing has a team of fire restoration technicians on call and ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at 218-999-9799. We’ll restore your fire damage in Grand Rapids, “Like it never even happened.”  

SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing is Independently Owned and Operated.

Dryer Fire in Hibbing?

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

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

Dryer Fires Happen in Hibbing

I’ll never forget the time the clothes dryer caught on fire. I was in college, and one of my roommates was doing laundry. I walked in just in time to see fire coming out of the bottom of the clothes dryer! I unplugged the machine, grabbed the fire extinguisher, and opened the dryer door. The fire was extinguished easily, and I could see where the fire had started by the lint trap. Fortunately, the fire was contained to the clothes dryer, but I saw how easily a fire could start from too much lint in the lint trap!

SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing respond to home fire damage emergencies throughout the year and know that fires start for many reasons and clothes dryers are one of them. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the leading cause of clothes dryers ignition was dust, fiber, or lint.

Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency of any size, SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing is Here to Help. ® We have a team of highly trained fire restoration technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day in Hibbing. Call us today at 218-999-9799. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”  

SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire-damaged Home in Hibbing?

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in fire restoration in Saint Louis County!

Hibbing Home Fire Fiasco

My daughter called me while I was at work to tell me our house was on fire. What a surreal call that was! Thankfully, no one was hurt. The firefighters arrived quickly and extinguished the fire before it spread to the rest of the house. When the Hibbing Fire Department left, there was a huge mess to clean up, and smoke odor and soot permeated the entire house. My neighbor told me to call SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing, and I’m glad I did.

This was a very stressful situation and the SERVPRO restoration technicians were kind and very helpful. They conducted an assessment of the damage and contacted my insurance adjuster. They tarped up the damaged roof and boarded up the broken kitchen windows and side door. After that, they began the cleanup process and inventoried and moved out anything that needed to be cleaned or relocated while the kitchen was being repaired. They supervised the entire repair process and kept me updated on their progress every step of the way. They made my difficult situation manageable.

 Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing is Here to Help. ® We have a team of highly trained fire restoration technicians on call and ready to assist you 24-hours a day in Hibbing. Call us today at 218-999-9799.  

SERVPRO® of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing is Independently Owned and Operated.

Board Up After A Fire

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

Board Up after fire

Often times in the unfortunate event of a fire, the windows and/or doors will need to be boarded up once the fire is put out. Having that done sooner rather than later is better to help protect the structure from the possibility of further damages. You may also have belongings that you want to protect from being stolen or damaged by the elements. Boarding up is also an added precaution to keep out any critters that may want to get inside to make themselves a new home.

Our experts at SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing are here to help you recover quickly from the fire damages. Give us a call after the fire is out at 218-999-9799 and we will take care of your restoration needs.

Extra Precautions

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

Dryer Fire

Be sure to clean your lint trap after each and every load that is dried in your dryer. This precaution can help you avoid a fire in your dryer and in turn save the lives of your loved ones.

After removing the lint, if there are any tough spots;

1. Rinse the lint trap with water
2. Apply a small amount of dish soup
3. Brush gently to scrub clean
4. Rinse thoroughly

With just a little effort put forth, you can save a little money as your dryer runs more efficiently. More importantly, you could be saving lives by avoiding a fire.

Other tips to aid in avoiding a fire in your dryer are;

• Clean the outside vent
• Clean vent hoses
• Keep the machine clean
• Keep the area around the dryer clutter free and clean

Electrical fire in Jacobson

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Damaged wiring in a home for boiler

Your home may be in danger of an electrical fire if:

• You smell something burning with no source in sight
• The circuit breaker keeps tripping
• Wiring is outdated
• Outlets discolor or are overloaded
• Misuse of extension cords
• You hear rodents in the walls chewing

If you should discover that you have an electrical fire, use a fire extinguisher to put it out. If possible, shut off the power source by shutting the breaker off. NEVER throw water on it as you could get electrocuted. If you don’t have a fire extinguisher, you can use baking soda or salt.

To avoid an electrical fire, have wiring inspected by an electrician regularly. Power surges can increase the amount of electricity flowing to the outlet and will overload it causing it to spark. A surge protector can help protect you from a potential electrical fire.

Bemidji, Grand Rapids and Hibbing to include MARBLE RESIDENTS

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Fire in Microwave put out with fire extinguisher

A fire extinguisher is a device used to put out or control small fires. There are 4 classes of extinguishers that put out different types of fires. A, B, C, and D.

Class A - Puts out ordinary flammables such as wood and paper.

Class B - For use on ignitable liquids like grease, gas and oil.

Class C - Are made for use on electrical fires.

Class D - Are made for burnable metals.

Some extinguishers will be labeled for more than one class. 

To use a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS

P = Pull the pin

A = Aim at the base of the fire from a safe distance.

S = Squeeze the handles together slowly

S = Sweep nozzle from side to side

To safely clean up Fire Extinguisher dust, you can trust SERVPRO to get the job done. Just give us a call at 218-999-9799.

Bemidji, Grand Rapids and Hibbing to include COLERAINE RESIDENTS

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Fire

Dry cleaning is commonly the method used in removing soot and the use of a dry chemical sponge is used in this process. The sponge is 100% natural rubber and is non-abrasive. 

Another method is Wet cleaning which uses a specialized solution to remove the soot. This method should be used with caution on non-porous surfaces.

If soot damage is untreated or not properly removed, tiny particles of the soot can be inhaled causing breathing issues such as asthma, bronchitis and other illness that could keep you from doing your daily routine activities. 

SERVPRO is certified in the current methods of fire, smoke and soot removal. We are available 24/7 to help restore "Like it never even happened."

Call today at 218-999-9799

Ultrasonic Cleaning After A Fire

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

Ultrasonic Cleaning is commonly used in many different industries such as jewelers and medical facilities. Ultrasonic cleaning is the process of using high pressured waves with a cleaning solution to effectively clean an object. This type of cleaning removes particles that are adhered to an item especially in hard to reach places. Metals, plastics, glass, rubber and ceramics can be used in the ultrasonic machine. 

Ultrasonic cleaning in the restoration industry is applied and used to remove residue from fire, smoke and water losses. 

Should your commercial or residential property suffer fire or water damage and contents are damaged, contact us at SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids and Hibbing at our office at (218)999-9799. We have the tools and resources making it "Like it never even happened."

Cooking Safety Tips and Prevention

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

Cooking fires are the #1 cause of home fires and injuries according to the NFPA.  The cause is unattended cooking so it is important to be alert and make sure you never leave the kitchen while cooking. A kitchen fire, regardless of the size, can be overwhelming. Most kitchen fires begin on the stove and the damage can affect the entire kitchen along with other areas in the home including walls, ceilings and appliances. A cooking fire is usually started by grease, oil or food which can make cleanup more difficult. 

Should you ever experience a kitchen fire that has left you with smoke, soot or fire damage, our office here at SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids and Hibbing is available 24/7 to help with the cleanup whether it be the building structure or your personal property.

A few tips to remember in the kitchen:

• If a small grease fire starts in a pan, smother the flames by carefully sliding a lid over the pan. Turn off the burner but do not remove the pan. 
• Stay in the kitchen while you cook
• Remove items such as towels, plastic utensils and pot holders that can catch fire away from stove 
• Keep cooking surfaces clean to prevent food & grease build up
• Make sure you have a working smoke alarm
• Make sure you kitchen has a fire extinguisher
• If you need to lave the room, be sure to turn the stove off

SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids and Hibbing (218)999-9799

Tips to Avoid a Lint Fire

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Pull the lint trap from the top or front of the dryer and remove the lint by hand.

It only takes a load or two of laundry to fill up the lint trap in your dryer. Not only does this cut down the functional efficiency of the dryer, but it also creates the risk of a lint fire and, ultimately, a house fire. Protect your home and family from dryer related damages and a visit from fire damage cleanup and restoration professionals by cleaning the lint trap:

Pull the lint trap from the top or front of the dryer and remove the lint by hand. If there's stubborn debris, rinse the filter under a little bit of water.
After removing the screen filter, use your vacuum attachment to keep lint away from the interior of the dryer and prevent clogs.
Give the trap a more thorough cleaning by unplugging the dryer and vacuuming out the interior and exterior hoses and vents. This deep cleaning step should be completed every six months or more often.

To ensure your lint trap is completely clean and free from lint and residue, follow these steps to deep clean a dryer lint trap.

Step 1 – Remove all surface lint from the lint trap.
Step 2 – Wet the lint trap screen and apply a small amount of dish soap.
Step 3 – Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the screen until all the waxy residue is gone.
Step 4 – Rinse the screen thoroughly.

It doesn't take much effort to prevent a dryer fire, and your efforts will result in financial savings and a dryer in top working condition.

Dryer Maintenance for Safe Operation
Removing lint from the trap isn't the only maintenance step you can take to reduce the risk of a lint fire. You can also wipe down the door of the dryer, clean out the outside vent, and avoid setting the temperature of the dryer too high. Only run the dryer when you have a full load but don't overfill the appliance.

Tips for Improved Efficiency
There are a few other tips you can use to get the best results from this appliance. For example, when you do back-to-back loads of laundry, moving a second load into the dryer right after the first load comes out, there's residual heat and the dryer won't have to work so hard the second time around. If you run your load in the washing machine through an extra spin cycle, there is less water for the dryer to remove. Finally, add a dry towel to your load in the dryer; this helps your clothes get dry faster.
The best way to avoid a lint fire is to clean the lint trap each time your run a load through the appliance. Complete a more thorough cleaning two or three times a year to boost efficiency and improve safety. Protect your northern Minnesota home and family with these simple maintenance steps.

PUFF BACKS!!

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

If you see these in your home call SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing!

Despite the increasing number of viable alternative heating methods available on the market, a large number of people in Northern Minnesota still rely on oil furnaces to heat their homes and businesses. Modern heating systems are very reliable and dependable; most issues can be readily addressed by a qualified professional. Unfortunately, the malfunction commonly known as the "puff back" is not so easily dealt with.

A puffback is an explosion inside the burner chamber of the furnace, similar to the backfiring of a car. While there are a number of causes - such as excessive debris or a buildup of oil fumes prior to burner ignition - the resulting explosion can shoot soot and debris through the furnace's exhaust system...and into your home. When the soot gets pushed throughout the house it can create soot webs. It may look as if you never clean, but guess what those webs that your seeing in the corners are created by the soot.

This soot is not just a powder-like substance; instead, it is black, sticky and will include a mixture of oil that is difficult to clean. Walls, ceilings, carpets, furniture and curtains are coated with a fine film of soot and smoky streaks. Typically, the damage is worse with a forced-air -heating system or central air-conditioning, because the duct work provides a path through the house, even into closets. In addition to the soot, a puff back causes a foul odor to permeate your home. Oil-based soot is extremely difficult to remove and needs to be cleaned as soon as possible.

Fortunately, SERVPRO of Beverly/Cape Ann has the knowledge and experience to take care of difficult problems such as this. Since each puffback 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 home or business, while also treating your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

In the event of a puffback - or any fire, smoke or water emergency - call SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing!

Call us at 218-999-9799!

Determination of Item Salvageability

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Since You Asked

Frank from Hibbing asks: When there is a fire in a house how do you determine what can be saved and what cannot?

When something tragic like a fire happens in your home you do not often thing about your "stuff" until after the smoke settles.  When we come into someones home after a fire we inventory everything in the hose, and I mean everything.  From the couch, to the bags of tea in the cupboard.  We photograph every piece and get a description to send to the insurance company.  From this inventory process we can determine what can be saved and restored and what has been damaged beyond repair.

Some items are easy to discard and replace, such as paper products and certain unsealed food items.  However trying to determine what can and cannot be saved can be a difficult decision.  Maybe it is slightly damaged or maybe it is something that holds sentimental value.  The chair that was made by your great grandfather and cannot be replaced at your local furniture store.  When this happens we work with the home owner and the insurance company to decide how to move forward.  Maybe you would like the heirloom to be cleaned even if that means it will not be back to its original glory, but that is a decision that the home owner needs to make for him or herself.

A fire is never easy but we try to make the process as easy as possible on you, the homeowner.

If the unfortunate happens call SERVPRO of Bemidiji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing at 218-999-9799.  You can submit your own question on our facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/SERVPRO.BEMIDJI.GRANDRAPIDS.HIBBING/ or on Twitter, https://twitter.com/SERVPROBGRH

Tips to Help you Prevent a Holiday House Fire

12/13/2018 (Permalink)

With there being nearly 47,000 fires that occur during the winter holiday time, here are a few tips to help you prevent a fire this time of year.

• Remember to have your Christmas tree, candles and any other decorations at a minimum of 3 feet away from any heat source (Examples are fire places, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents, and candles).
• Make sure the tree you currently have or are looking to purchase is flame retardant metallic or artificial.  If you are one who prefers a real tree make sure it has fresh green needles that aren't easily broken.  Keep your real tree as moist as possible by making sure you water them often.
• Verify that your lights and decorations are in good condition.  Pay close attention to make sure there are no wires showing on the light strings.  Make sure to always follow the Manufacture's instructions that come with your lights and possibly your decorations.
• Remember to unplug your tree and lights before you leave the house or go to bed.
• Always make sure that you have no lit candles when you leave your house or go to bed, and never use lit candles to decorate your Christmas tree.
• Make sure that your tree stand is designed to prevent your tree from tipping over.  Keep your curious pets and children away form the tree.
• Designate someone to walk around the home to make sure that all the candles or smoking materials are completely extinguished after the guests leave.
• Make sure that anything flammable (Example pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, towels, or curtains)are always kept away from the stove top.
• Smoke Alarms save lives!  Make sure you have one installed near your kitchen.  You should also have some alarms on every level near sleeping areas, as well as inside and outside bedrooms if you are someone who likes to sleep with your door closed.  You should test your smoke alarms at least once a month and write on your calendar to remind yourself to change the batteries in the smoke alarm once a year.

Please watch the video provided by NFPA: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xr6b9b8FYKk&feature=youtu.be

If the unfortunate happens call SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing at 218-999-9799.  You can submit your own questions on our Facebook page, facebook.com/SERVPRO.BEMIDJI.GRANDRAPIDS.HIBBING, or on Twitter, @SERVPROBGRH.

Smoke Damage

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke damage can be very detrimental to your health and your property. The smoke can leave discoloration, corrosion, and odor all over your household items. It also can affect your health and you should stay away from the area until professionals have cleared it out and it is safe to go back inside. Smoke damage can happen to your property even when it’s not your property affected by the fire. If your neighbor has a fire and your windows were open, or if there is a wild fire in a nearby field; you can still get smoke damage. Our team of experts at SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids, & Hibbing has the training and equipment to clean and restore your home from any type of smoke damage. We'll treat you and your property with the respect and care it deserves!

Grilling safety tips

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

Spring is upon us! It the time of year when the weather starts to warm up, and everyone breaks out the grills. SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids & Hibbing wants to share some tips provided by the National Fire Protection Association to help keep your family safe.

• When using a charcoal grill, only use starter fluids designed for barbeque grills; DO NOT add fluid after the coals have been lit.
• When using a gas grill, ensure the hose connection is tight and check the hoses for leaks.  Applying soapy water to the hoses and connections will easily and safely reveal any leaks.
• When camping, always use a flame-retardant tent and set up camp far away from the camp fire.
• Always build a campfire downwind from the tent area.  Clear vegetation and dig a pit before building your fire.  Extinguish the fire before going to sleep or leaving the campsite.
• Store liquid fire starter (not gasoline) away from your tent and campfire.  Only use dry kindling to freshen a campfire.

Winter Fire Prevention Tips

12/14/2017 (Permalink)

It’s That time of year again, the temperature is dropping, and the air is dry. These weather conditions make for a winter wonderland, but can also make for a winter nightmare. Winter months are the highest months for fires. While some of us tend to enjoy the cold we still depend of heating our homes to survive these harsh months. Unfortunately, the high cost of heating our homes we tend to turn to alternative methods to heat our homes. While these methods may be more cost effective for us they also increase the risk of starting a fire. Here at SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids, & Hibbing we have 7 tips to help prevent fire damage.

• Have your furnace inspected annually to ensure its in good working condition.
• Make sure all heaters and ducting is clear and unobstructed.
• Don’t leave any space heater running while unattended.
• Ensure you have proper working smoke detectors.
• Inspect all extension cords for defects before each use and replace any that are damaged.
• Don’t use a stove or a range to aid in heating your home.
• Plan and practice an escape plan in case of an emergency.

The professionals at SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids, & Hibbing are always here to help in the event of a fire.

Ozone and Hydroxyl

11/30/2017 (Permalink)

Do you have an odor from smoke damage or something else in your home? Here at SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids, & Hibbing we have some equipment to help alleviate the smell. Our ozone generator that generates ozone. Also, we have a hydroxyl generator which is an alternative method for the deodorization process.

The ozone generator is a machine that creates ozone by adding and extra oxygen molecule to the stable breathable oxygen. This creates a less stable compound know as ozone. This gas isn’t something that you should be breathing. If we must use this solution for your odor the home must be unoccupied. This process usually takes 24 hours to do its job. After the ozone has had its time to work its magic we completely air out the structure before it can be occupied again.

The hydroxyl generator is a safe alternative method we use when the structure can’t be emptied of all residents. This method uses UV light to create a hydroxyl radical that reacts with the pollutants and destroys them. This method isn’t as fast as the ozone generator and usually take 4 to 5 days to get the job done.

After SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids, & Hibbing has removed the source of the odor we utilize both extremely powerful methods to aid in the deodorization process to get your home back to a pleasant smell.

Fire Restoration

7/7/2016 (Permalink)

Since You Asked

Dan from Hibbing asks: When there is a fire in a house how do you determine what can be saved and what cannot?

Fire Restoration:

When something tragic like a fire happens in your home you do not often think about your “stuff” until after the smoke settles, but trying to decide what can be saved and what cannot can be difficult. There are things that can are easy to throw away, like paper products that have been burned or charred walls, but what about everything else?

When we come into someone’s home after a fire we inventory everything in the house, and I mean everything. From the couch, to the bags of tea in the cupboard. We photograph every piece and get a description to send to the insurance company. From this inventorying we can determine what can be saved and restored and what has been damaged beyond repair.

However they are always things that end up in a grey area. Maybe it is slightly damaged, or maybe it is something that holds sentimental value. The chair that was made by your great grandfather cannot be replaced at your local furniture store. When this happens we work with the home owner and the insurance company to decide how to move forward. Maybe you would like the heirloom to be cleaned even if that means it will not be back to its original glory, but that is a decision that the home owner needs to make for him or herself. 

If the unfortunate happens call SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing at 218-999-9799. You can submit your own question on our Facebook page, facebook.com/SERVPRO.BEMIDJI.GRANDRAPIDS.HIBBING, or on Twitter, @SERVPROBGRH.