Recent Fire Damage Posts

Fire and Smoke Cleanup Procedures of Smithtown Homes and Contents

11/2/2023 (Permalink)

a fire damaged hallway with soot covering the walls After a fire in your home, you want the damage dealt with quickly. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for certified technicians to help you.

Our Fire & Smoke Cleanup Crew Uses IICRC Guidelines

When your Smithtown home catches fire and becomes a devastated mess, SERVPRO® is nearby. The fire and smoke cleanup process takes time; however, we are efficient at what we do, making homes and businesses "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO performs fire and smoke cleanup of your Smithtown home according to IICRC standards. Fire and intense heat affect materials at the molecular level and in predictable ways. Because of this uniformity, we know that damage in one home will be similar to changes sustained in another.

Many customers ask about how we handle smoke and fire damage to different aspects of their property. Here are a few of the areas we concentrate on after a blaze: 

  • Extraction of water, foam, or powder 
  • Removal of charred materials 
  • Coping with fallen deposits throughout the home. 

Part of cleaning up the aftermath of a fire, including smaller ones, is ridding the house of the material used to extinguish the fire. Sometimes firefighters use foam or powder to extinguish a fire. We extract the water and remove the foam before it can disintegrate, protecting groundwater. We use vacuums and stiff brushes to clean up fire-suffocating powder. 

Our process of removing charred items like furniture or carpeting is straightforward. When it involves the structure, we rely on our building team to assist us in maintaining the structural integrity of your house's framework. To remove a load-bearing element, we need to construct a sturdy brace to replace it. Outside construction companies may be required to comply with safety and code regulations.

Smoke contains solid particulates, oils, ash, and VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). Many of these substances remain suspended in the air after a fire and slowly descend onto surfaces. SERVPRO's technicians can readily remove these from surfaces (countertops, furniture, flooring) and the air with our powerful air scrubbers. The science of SOS-smoke odor sealers is evolving, but we offer known effective products for limiting the migration of odors. 

At SERVPRO of Port Jefferson, we do what it takes to make your house safe for your family. Call us at (631) 476-5300, 24/7, any day of the year.

The Obstacles of Smithtown Fire Damage Restoration

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO vans in front of a Fire Department SERVPRO has the manpower and equipment for any size of fire damage to your Smithtown property. Call now!

SERVPRO Offers Efficient Fire Damage Recovery  

It is essential to have a crew of professionals ready 24/7 to help with post-fire cleanup and recovery. Mitigating losses after fire events is crucial, as effects can continually spread and impact new surfaces and contents. We have a roster of FSRT-Certified technicians available to help when every minute counts. Our accreditations from the IICRC are in multiple beneficial restoration niches like: 

  • Fire Restoration
  • Carpet Cleaning
  • Upholstery Cleaning
  • Water Restoration
  • Odor Control

Reaching a Damaged Property Fast

Smithtown fire damage events do not improve on their own and, in many cases, exponentially worsen until direct mitigative and restorative action is taken. As a trusted name for recovering fire losses and smoke damage, SERVPRO professionals on our roster have the tools and training to help. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster, a commitment we show by our available team of technicians who mobilize for emergency services when disasters strike.

Damage Claims Approval 

One of the obstacles that many professionals like ours face when starting the fire damage cleanup process is the insurance company involved. Most homeowners rely on their policies to cover the bulk of restoration costs after a fire emergency, so our SERVPRO team must work closely with providers and policyholders to meet demands. Claim approval is often subject to specific needs by the representing company, including:

  • Estimation – SERVPRO provides detailed estimates regarding the expected costs of specific aspects of the restoration a property needs and the anticipated timeline to complete these phases.
  • Damage Tracking – Insurance adjusters need the full scope of the damage upon the initial inspection and continued progress updates. We interface directly with the company to keep this process going.
  • Content Inventory – The initial cataloging of fire damage also gives our professionals the chance to take an entire inventory of impacted contents and personal belongings that must get replaced, restored, or relocated.

Soot and Smoke Deposits

Partial combustion creates acidic particles that can severely mar impacted surfaces where these solids come to rest. It is vital to undertake direct actions to remove buildup and soot solids on building materials and contents as rapidly as possible. Varying smoke and fire damage types can involve unique cleanup strategies ranging from solvents to abrasive tactics. Our SERVPRO team is ready to help remove these residues to protect underlying substrates.

Harsh Malodors

Burning can also create odor compounds that spread rapidly in the structure. The hotter the fire burns, the more combustion occurs, and smoke odor molecules penetrate the porous elements in the immediate vicinity. Because malodors exist in different forms, several deodorization practices and products must neutralize these effects in a property. Techniques can include:

  • Fogging – These portable units operate by rapidly heating a wet deodorizing product in a reservoir to form a mist or vapor that can be sprayed in an affected area. Vaporous products can penetrate porous materials and neutralize trapped smells.
  • Hydroxyl Machines – Using UV cleaning, hydroxyl machines simultaneously manage the malodor threats and airborne contaminants with HEPA filtration.
  • Ozone – Ozone machines generate unstable chemical compounds that bind with the molecules of smoke odors and neutralize them immediately. This is highly effective, but the process is hazardous to humans and pets, so this approach halts restoration until the ozone dissipates.

When Smithtown fire damage incidents occur, there is a finite timeline to restore and recover impacted areas of your house. Our SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown team is always ready to respond to these emergencies with our prompt mobilization of vehicles, equipment, and specialists. Call us today at (631) 265-9200.

Cleaning Ceilings After Fire Damage in Smithtown

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

Kitchen with Fire Damage For fast and efficient service call SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown at (631) 265-9200.

Fire Cleanup Technicians From SERVPRO Can Help

Hot air rises. When a fire breaks out in your home, smoke residues concentrate on the ceiling directly above the ignition. After the flames are extinguished and temperatures return to normal, many particulates released during the fire cool and drop down onto surfaces or furniture below. At SERVPRO, we recommend that you cover any furniture or flooring as quickly as possible in the aftermath of a fire to prevent secondary damage to carpets, fabrics, and exposed surfaces. 

Our services include:

  • Fire cleanup
  • Fire mitigation
  • Smoke Restoration

Cleaning ceiling soot can be a challenging part of fire restoration for Smithtown homeowners. SERVPRO technicians have a tried-and-tested method for cleaning ceilings that do not cause accidental damage to other parts of the home. First, our technicians prepare the area by moving furniture, covering floors with canvas or plastic sheets, and removing lampshades, draperies, and curtains. We can then begin the initial cleaning phase by vacuuming the ceiling to remove loose soot, hanging soil, or soot chains. Often, heavier soils can bond with ceiling finishes and require direct agitation to remove. Our technicians use specially-designed dry sponges to remove thicker soil from the ceiling, using a methodology that avoids streaking or spreading of soot.

Removing Smoke Residues From Ceilings

Ceilings can be tricky to reach and greatly increase the chances of slip and trip hazards. Before cleaning smoke residue from the ceiling, it is vital to procure the correct equipment and learn the methods. Our technicians have years of experience in restoring local properties from fire-related damages. 

  • Dry sponges are attached to fixed clamps so technicians can reach the upper ceiling area.
  • Cleaning areas are "cut in" by pushing the sponge 3 to 4 feet on the surface with even pressure and overlapping each new cut.
  • Multiple cleans should be started in the opposite direction while a final vacuuming of the floor and ceiling completes the job.


Property restoration can be quick and painless with professional assistance. Contact SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown for fire restoration help at (631) 265-9200.

What Do I Restore or Replace in My Home After A Fire?

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

Fire and Soot Damaged Items Let SERVPRO mitigate your fire damaged home in Smithtown.

Contact SERVPRO to Help You with Fire Restoration In Your Smithtown Home

Now that warmer weather is here, it’s time to start those DIY projects like cleaning out the garage and painting the trim on the back of your Smithtown house. Unfortunately, that also means an increased risk of fire if you do not move or store paint thinner and other chemicals correctly.

It Looks Like A Total Loss, What Can You Do?

SERVPRO technicians can often restore your fire-damaged Smithtown property when it seems impossible. The time it takes to restore an item is often cheaper than buying a replacement. As an example, we have cleaning agents that cut through the most complex layer of soot yet still leave the surface of a workbench intact and look like you just bought it.

What about Replacing My Water Heater and Air Ducts?

Our technicians can do that as well. The only reasons our team does not install these replacements are if doing so voids the warranty of the new water heater or if your insurance carrier wants the new ducts installed by a licensed heating and air company.

Call SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown at (631) 265-9200 to learn more about restoring your home after a fire. You can schedule an inspection or a service call immediately.

Removing the Smell of Fire Damaged Elements from My Smithtown Home

7/10/2022 (Permalink)

flames on wood floor Foul odors and fire damage restoration, including odor removal, done by our great SERVPRO crew for our Smithtown neighbors.

Harsh Odor Removal after a House Fire

Flames may engulf your Smithtown home, but you don't have to live with their memory forever. Once extinguishing agents get rid of the fire, you face the daunting task of restoring your fire-damaged home and sorting through your belongings. As traumatic as it sounds, trained technicians can help you sort through the damage and restore your home to preloss condition.

Fire restoration in Smithtown is a job for SERVPRO. Our crew knows the telltale signs of water and fire damage and works diligently to remediate them. As a homeowner, you can place your trust in our well-trained team and let us apply our industry expertise to your home. Call our 24/7 hotline and let us assess the damage and draw up an action plan.

What should I do to eliminate fire damage in my home? 

Homeowners are a crucial component of the restoration plan. Our SERVPRO team partners with you to decide on removing some items and restoring others. We can liaise with your insurance carrier to coordinate demolition and discarding of building materials and belongings. However, as industry professionals, we have access to specialized equipment, including the following-

  • Pumps to extract water
  • Air dryers and circulators to remove excess moisture
  • Hydroxyl generators to recombine airborne particles
  • Deodorizers to eliminate residual smells. 

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown can help. Call us at (631) 518-3720 and let us leave your home "Like it never even happened."

Challenges of Tile Cleaning After Fire Damage in Smithtown Homes

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage to white tile SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown will take on the full job after a fire damage.

SERVPRO Resources Simplify Fire Cleanup in Smithtown

Cleaning helps counter considerable effects of fire on a property. Many factors, including the choice of cleaning method and the physical traits of affected areas, influence the restoration process's overall outcome. If fire damage includes soiling of tiled surfaces, you may expect a smooth cleaning process because of its resilient qualities. However, issues like stained grout lines can increase the challenge of restoring your Smithtown home.

When cleaning floors affected by fire damage at your Smithtown home, you cannot rely on the normal damp-mopping or other mild methods that you normally use. The layers of soot, ash, and other residues that accumulate on the surface would quickly soil the cleaning medium making it impossible to eliminate soiling. SERVPRO has abundant resources to overcome such challenges. For example, fitting a portable or truck-mounted water extractor with a squeegee wand simplifies cleaning or rinsing tiled floors when heavily soiled. 

Other useful equipment

 After dealing with the accumulated soils, the next step is to resolve any stains and discoloration. The most likely problem is blotchy areas along grout lines. The easiest way to resolve such is to apply an acidic cleaning agent and then agitate the area. 

Additional cleaning headaches

Your fire restoration efforts can run into further headwinds if the cleaning solution you use damages the surrounding material. Acidic cleaners work by etching grout, thus eliminating blotchy patches. However, if it etches the surrounding tile or stone surfaces, it can ruin your efforts to resolve fire damage. 

Solutions for tile etching

  • Pretesting surface materials
  • Applying alkaline solutions after the acidic cleaners
  • Drying the area thoroughly after cleaning

Our SERVPRO technicians inquire whether you have any extra piece of tile in your house and use it to test whether the cleaning solutions we have can cause etching. One clear sign that a solution can etch the surface is changing color to a whitish tinge or foaming. 

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown can help you cope with expected or unexpected challenges after fire damage. Call us at (631) 265-9200. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How to Properly Cleanup Fire and Smoke Damage in Smithtown Homes

3/13/2022 (Permalink)

a house with its roof and top floor on fire When smoke and fire damage has occurred on your property, the situation needs to be handled by professionals. Contact SERVPRO 24/7.

SERVPRO Uses Unique Methods in Smithtown Homes to Resolve Fire Damage

While fire consumes materials directly, smoke causes indirect damage by depositing residues. Depending on how severe smoke damage is, specialized equipment and chemicals may be necessary. To combat the different residues, professionals such as SERVPRO use unique cleaning methods to effectively restore both structure and contents in your Smithtown home to preloss conditions.

When performing fire and smoke damage repair in Smithtown homes, SERVPRO technicians consider factors like the type, age, and permeability of materials. Smoke residues tend to bond with the surfaces they contact, and when unfinished wooden or concrete surfaces are affected, they absorb most soot residues, thus requiring aggressive cleaning.

Various methods effective at dislodging soils from surfaces

  • Dry ice blasting
  • Dry-cleaning using sponges
  • Vacuuming

Challenges while cleaning smoke residues

To dislodge soils from unfinished wooden surfaces, we rub the surface with a dry cleaning sponge or a dust cloth working in the direction of the grain to reduce the rate of wear of the cleaning sponges. Working along the grains prevents residues from embedding deeply into the unfinished surface. However, if more agitation is needed, or when the sponges tend to smear soot, we apply a strong cleaning solution capable of cutting through grease using a clean towel to wipe off the residues.

Using dry cleaning sponges, our technicians remove loose soot from walls, floors, and ceilings. Starting from the ceiling is practical since the debris that drops off would re-soil other areas such as the floors if cleaning starts here. As cleaning progresses, the sponges become clogged with soot, so we skim it off to reveal a new cleaning surface.

Other challenges might include

  • Containing soot from spreading
  • Reaching soot in hard to reach areas
  • Cleaning soot with unique physical or chemical properties

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown offers an intense and detailed fire and smoke damage cleaning, returning surfaces to preloss conditions. Call us at (631) 265-9200. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How Can Move-Outs Benefit Fire Damage Cleanup in Smithtown?

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

soot covering a fire damaged kitchen and furniture within it Whether fire affects your kitchen or another room in your home, cleanup has to happen right away. Contact SERVPRO for effective remediation.

SERVPRO Techs Perform Pro House Fire Mitigation in Smithtown

When a Smithtown property needs house fire cleanup services, property owners have several options for the contents. Using the benefits of a move-out can work in a homeowner's favor.

SERVPRO technicians perform move-outs regularly during fire damage mitigation in Smithtown properties. Although each fire cleanup and property has qualities that make it unique, the action of the move-out gets performed in much the same fashion for each job. The basic steps the techs do are: 

  • Scope the property
  • Pack, tag, and create an inventory list
  • Set up cleaning stations and sort items
  • Move out contents
  • Deodorize articles as needed
  • Move contents back into the home to their former locations

What Does Scoping Do?

During a house fire cleanup, the initial scope within the worksite helps determine the number of techs and supplies needed for this service. While an initial estimate may not get calculated during the early scoping of the damaged area of the home, this action is often enough for the insurance adjuster to create a projection as to the restoration service costs.

Creating an Inventory

The technicians carefully create a detailed report of the items getting moved out. The information creates a final inventory that includes detailed descriptions and barcodes to track individual objects. If the property owner needs an update on the whereabouts of an article, SERVPRO has no delays in locating the information simply by checking the report.

Cleaning Items for Reuse

The techs typically set up cleaning stations at the worksite to handle any restorative cleaning in real-time. Those items that were part of the move-out service may get cleaned and deodorized before getting repacked until the remediation completes. 

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown at (631) 265-9200 brings professional fire damage cleanup services to local Smithtown properties. The technicians have extensive training handling fire and smoke damage restoration as well as odor control to make the damage from the fire "Like it never even happened."

What Are Common Restorations Needed During Smithtown Fire Damage Cleanup

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

fire extinguisher in front of fire Fire and smoke damage restoration for your home is a job for SERVPRO. We will be on-site within 4 hours of the initial call.

SERVPRO Technicians Can Fully Restore Smithtown Homes With Fire and Smoke Damage

When Smithtown homeowners get a peek inside their properties before the fire restoration services begin, nothing looks like it can be saved due to: 

  • A coating of black soot on most of the surfaces
  • A layer of water damage from the First Responders' efforts
  • Piles of wet possessions from fire control applications

SERVPRO technicians take many things into account during Smithtown fire damage restoration jobs. First and foremost, the technicians realize the homeowner has undergone a very stressful situation, and the goal of the techs is to save as much of the property and contents as possible through the use of their tried and true cleaning methods. 

Walls and Ceilings with Fire and Smoke Damage

Different types of smoke damage can affect this area within a structure. The techs test a small bit and then choose the appropriate removal method. When the walls or ceilings are too charred or damaged for a restorative cleaning, the technicians carefully remove only the ruined portion and leave the rest of the drywall intact. This reduces the number of repairs needed within the house. 

Extraction Can Be a Part of House Fire Restoration

The water used by the first responders can be left inside the structure in copious amounts. SERVPRO techs have the equipment to remove the moisture rapidly and dry the area to ensure there is no water damage on top of the damage by the heat and flames.

How are Repairs Made After Fire Cleanup?

This SERVPRO location holds a general contractor license #51995-H, and the techs can handle all aspects of the rebuilding, repairs, and more. Right down to the cosmetic touches needed to bring a home back to the same condition as before the fire happened.

The local Smithtown community relies on SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown at (631) 265-9200 for all types of fire damage cleanup services. The trained, certified technicians are available 24/7 for any size restoration service needed.

Smithtown Residents Need Effective Safe Cleaning Methods to Handle Fire and Smoke Damage

10/17/2021 (Permalink)

smoke billowing from the windows of a house on fire Fire damage cleanup needs to happen quickly and be effective. Contact SERVPRO for remediation services and certified technicians.

SERVPRO’s Certified Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Efforts Ensure Your Property Gets Back to Normal Fast in Smithtown!

One wrong move during your house fire clean up, and you could have damage to your contents and building materials that would have otherwise been avoided. All too often, residents attempt DIY methods as a way to save money. However, SERVPRO wants Smithtown residents to know that our fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) have years of training on the best methods for getting your home back to pre-fire condition. All you have to do is contact us at any time of the day, and we will mobilize a crew to arrive at your door within hours to address your fire emergency.

It is best to remember that the faster you approach the fire and smoke damage in Smithtown, the more chance you have of salvaging belongings and materials throughout the impact zone. Soot and smoke residue have acidic properties, so the longer it sits, the more corrosion and secondary damage sets in. When mixed with moisture throughout the air from water used to extinguish the blaze, it becomes the perfect storm for damp, smeared residue, pitting, discoloration, and beyond.

SERVPRO features technicians who understand smoke residue characteristics so we can select the proper process for each situation. Some of the remedial actions we take to help get the fire, and smoke clean up started to include:

  • Vacuuming, scraping or blotting surface soiling
  • Testing various materials for colorfastness and sensitivity to water or cleaning products
  • Evaluating the pH of any impacted areas
  • Monitoring indoor air quality (IAQ) throughout the project

Of course, our Green Fleet comes packed with a broad range of equipment and products to use for your fire restoration project. This includes:

  • Wet and dry cleaning solvents
  • Furniture polish
  • Thermal fogging technology
  • Upholstery and carpet cleaners
  • Wood treatments, and more

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown has you covered when you need to tackle the fire and smoke damage in your home. Call us at (631) 265-9200 for emergency response.

Does SERVPRO Work with Homeowners’ Insurance in Smithtown?

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

Call Now! SERVPRO has the manpower and equipment for any size fire damage to your property. Call now!

SERVPRO Works Alongside Homeowners and Insurance Companies When There is Fire Damage to Smithtown Homes

When it comes to injuries, property loss, and death caused by fire, residential fires lead the way. Most homes are covered by insurance, but dealing with claims can be challenging. A professional water restoration company can assist homeowners in their claims. 

Fire Restoration & Parties Involved

When there is fire damage to a Smithtown home, your insurance company works with you to ascertain the damage and what gets covered for a loss. The process is a detailed one and involves:

  •   Homeowner – Impacted by the fire and has a loss due to the fire.
  •   Insurance Adjuster – Represents the insurance company on-site and works with the restoration company and the owner. 
  •   Insurance Company – Where the individual has their homeowners’ insurance policy.
  •   Fire Restoration Company – A vital part of the equation. Provides necessary information that helps with claims and restoration.

A Bridge Between the Adjuster & Homeowner

A fire is devastating and can turn your life upside down. The initial shock can leave the family wondering what to do first. Once your family is safe, contacting your insurance company is the next step. Once that gets done, contact SERVPRO. We provide emergency fire mitigation and work with your adjuster to make sure everything gets done correctly. Fire damage restoration includes:

  • Minimizing loss
  • Determine restoration plan
  • Assist adjusters
  • Provide scope details
  • Proceed with restoration
  • Ensure the customer’s satisfaction

SERVPRO works closely with the adjuster and homeowner and provides an invaluable service. What we do goes beyond simply restoring the home. We take the stress of fire damage restoration from the owner’s shoulder as we work alongside the adjuster. 

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown is here for owners and adjusters. Give us a call at (631) 265-9200 for more information.

How Does Smithtown Kitchen Fire Damage Cleanup Challenge Homeowners?

6/13/2021 (Permalink)

fire damaged kitchen stove with burned pots on top of it Kitchen fire damage can cause quite a mess. Contact SERVPRO for effective cleaning and remediation services.

SERVPRO Has the Training, Products, and Equipment to Achieve Protein-Based Fire Damage Restoration in Smithtown

Kitchens are often the space where Smithtown fire damage originates. The SERVPRO team is familiar with the unique needs caused by cooking fire and smoke remediation in a residence.

Why Is Kitchen Fire Restoration So Difficult to Complete?

Residues created during a kitchen fire are unlike the ash and soot produced by burning building materials. The coating left behind instead consists of dehydrated oils, greases, and other components of the superheated or burned food and is:

  • Incredibly smelly
  • Nearly colorless and tricky for homeowners to spot on structures and contents
  • Prone to drifting on the hot currents of air produced by the fire, quickly spreading throughout all spaces in a home
  • Extremely adhesive on affected surfaces  
  • Primarily oil-based and impervious to water-based cleaners

How Does SERVPRO Conquer Protein-Based Fire and Smoke Damage?

Matching cleaning products, tools, and techniques to the damage suffered by your Smithtown dwelling is vital. SERVPRO’s managers and technicians master advanced fire damage restoration interventions taught at the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). House fire cleanup of protein-based residues require professional care as workers:

  • Use solvents
  • Employ abrasive tools or cleaning products infused with grit to loosen the residues’ grip
  • Create agitation to dislodge the coating
  • Consider specialized equipment such as ultrasonic immersion tanks to destroy the residues’ bonds when contents and detachable fixtures  are covered in the shellac-like protein coating

Count on SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown for fire and smoke damage restoration and cleanup. Call (631) 265-9200 to schedule a post-kitchen fire evaluation.

Contractor Licenses:

General: 51995-H

Mold Remediation: 0060

Can SERVPRO Repair My Fire Damaged Home in Smithtown?

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO logo over fire SERVPRO is always ready and available to assist with fire mishaps around the clock. Don't wait, Just Call (631) 265-9200.

Does SERVPRO Provide Restoration Services After Fire Damages my Home in Smithtown?

Even a comparatively small fire can cause a great deal of fire damage in Smithtown homes. Contents and structures may be damaged by the fire and by the fire retardants used by the firemen. There is also smoke residue that spreads throughout the house and the smoke odor that you can smell everywhere.

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown can assist homeowners with all of this fire damage. We remove structural items and contents that are damaged beyond repair from your home. We maintain a record of everything for insurance purposes. Next, we remove any contents that require specialized cleaning to remove soot and odors. All non-porous items, including structures, are cleaned and deodorized.

We remove smoke odors by using deodorizing materials and equipment to remove the smell of smoke residue from the entire home, including HVAC systems. Our local franchise also has a general contracting license which helps us move seamlessly from fire and smoke remediation to repair.

Our Services include:

  • Smoke Damage Remediation
  • House Fire Clean Up
  • Fire Damage Restoration and Repair

Call SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown for fire damage restoration in Smithtown and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (631) 265-9200.

Need Fire Damage Restoration and Smoke Remediation in Smithtown – Call SERVPRO

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

smoke from a fire Smoke and odor issues are a job for SERVPRO. We use the latest technology and equipment for every job. Fire damage restoration is a specialty of ours.

Smoke Damage and House Fire Clean Up – Call Greater Smithtown SERVPRO

Even a small kitchen house fire can cause a lot of damage. Cupboards are singed. Chemicals or water used to quell the fire must be removed. Smoke odors in the kitchen and perhaps the entire home must be deodorized.

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown can help with fire damage clean up and smoke remediation in your residential home or business. The science of fire and smoke damage restoration and cleanup depends on four factors:

  • The temperature of the cleaning solution
  • Agitation of the surface and the cleaning agents
  • Cleaning action of the solutions and ability to dissolve smoke residues
  • Allowing sufficient time for the cleaning process and agents to work

Every fire has different characteristics depending on the materials burned. For example, grease fires generate different smoke residues from wood. Each material also burns at different temperatures. As a result, smoke residues flow to other areas of the structure at different rates.

We train our SERVPRO team members to assess all of these variables and apply the best fire and smoke remediation techniques to restore your home.

Call SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown for fire damage in Smithtown and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (631) 265-9200.

SERVPRO Helps Local Smithtown Residents with Fire Damage Cleanup

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO vehicle parked in front of home SERVPRO professionals are trained to handle every level of fire damage, Including the odors that follow. Call us today, we are always available.

Smithtown Fire Damage Gets Professional Attention from SERVPRO

When a fire occurs within a property, it can leave a host of issues that make the cleanup a challenge, including:

  • Charred building materials that need removal
  • Smoke residues on surfaces
  • Water damage 
  • Inspection to determine if the heat ruined walls, ceilings, or furnishings

Smoke residues are a big issue facing SERVPRO technicians when they tackle Smithtown fire damage cleanup and restorations. The type of residue dictates the cleaning method needed as well as the surface it is on.

Dry particles are loose and move with ease. SERVPRO techs use hand vacuuming and manual applications such as dry cleaning sponges to remove this type of smoke damage from surfaces. Applying cleaning solutions can force that particulate deeper into absorbent articles and, in some cases, make the problem worse. 

Wet, heavier residues usually need the help of a solvent-based cleaning agent to dissolve the grip on the surface before a clean removal can happen as the solvent suspends the residue so it can then get wiped away. 


SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown at (631) 265-9200 is available 24/7 for fire damage restoration in local Smithtown homes.

Kitchen Fires Are Among the Most Common Housefires for St. James Residents.

12/13/2020 (Permalink)

fire damaged bookshelves with soot covering them Fire damage can affect any room in your home. Contact our experienced technicians for efficient remediation service that even defeats the odors.

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown Can Provide Adept Cleaning and Restoration to St. James Residents All Year Round.

Suffolk County is one of the four counties that make up Long Island, New York. The main township along the North Shore is Smithtown, which is home to 117,801 residents. Smithtown is the namesake of Richard Smith, an early settler in Long Island who arrived on the northern shore in the mid-seventeenth century. Local Folklore suggests that a Montauk Chieftain offered Smith as much land as he could ride around in one day on his bull. The canny Richard Smith picked the summer solstice as the longest day of the year and covered the 10 square miles that make up the township today. While recovered deed documents from the period cast doubt upon the popular myth, the township has continued to embrace the legend by erecting a bronze statue at the intersection of Middle Country Road and Route 111. There is some circumstantial evidence to support the story of Smith's bull, 'whisper,' as the presence of horses in the region was not commonplace until the mid-eighteenth century, and Richard Smith would likely have used a bull to carry out tasks usually fulfilled by horses. 

Today, St. James is a residential community that attracts visitors due to its stunning period buildings, abundant kayaking opportunities, and vineyards. The Blydenburgh Park Historic District is a tribute to the area's growing contribution to the nineteenth century's agricultural revolution. Mills, homes, and farm cottages are mostly intact and among some of the oldest buildings in Long Island. Among the top places to visit are the state parks and wildlife preserves. During the winter months, many of the hiking trails in Caleb Smith State Park open up excellent cross country skiing opportunities. Several walkable trails are marked by difficulty, with blue and red paths offering around ten miles of terrain that vary from woodlands, ponds to large hills and excellent views over Long Island and the skyscrapers of Manhattan. 

  • The Nissequogue River State Park has 521 acres of wildlife conservation and runs alongside the Nissequogue river. The state park features all-year-round kayaking and canoeing activities suitable for families and individuals looking to explore the Nissequogue river. The river park was founded in 2000 on the grounds of the Kings Park Psychiatric Center. The park offers fishing, tours, and birdwatching for many visitors each year. 
  • The Long Island community has a growing reputation for wine-making, which ship throughout the US and the Globe. Harmony Vineyards is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the waterfront of North Shore Harbor in Smithtown with live jazz music and outdoor movie screening during the summer months. Head down to Harbor road to enjoy excellent local wines, food, and culture.
  • The Smithtown Center for Performing Arts is a real gem putting on performances throughout the year for residents. Many of the programs are targeted toward younger children, with shows on Shrek, Aladdin Jr, and Dr. Seuss being performed in the last year. An arts center focused on inclusivity ticketing is typically cheap, while food, drinks, and snacks are served during the intermissions. 

Wining and Dining in St. James, Smithtown 

The diverse demographics of St. James ensures that there is a wide variety of excellent restaurants in the local area. While most of these make use of the fresh fish caught in the bays and harbors, there is a right mix of traditional American, Spanish and Asian cuisines to sink your teeth into. The majority of restaurants and bars sit along the thoroughfare of the main street, making window shopping for food an ideal night out. If you want to book ahead, several eateries are highly recommended by the locals.

  • Maureen's Kitchen is something of an institution for St. James residents. Serving up delicious traditional American and Spanish brunches, this eatery takes full advantage of the nearby harbor with kippers and seafood brunches, a stalwart of the menu. Prices are typically inexpensive, while the French Toast is a local highlight. Maureen's Kitchen is situated on Terry Road just off the bypass.
  • H20 Seafood is another gem of the local area located on Main Street and serving up seasonal seafood to delighted guests. The night-time restaurant has a marble sushi bar for quick meals and outdoor seating and sit-down dining. Blue-fin tuna, Scottish Salmon, and the Pan Roasted chicken are among the delicacies here.
  • Cafe Havana on West Jericho Turnpike has a selection of Cuban-themed cocktails and seafood tapas. The choice of Paellas, Empanadas, Martini's, and Wines are a great way to introduce yourself to the local cuisine when visiting.

Smoke Residues Can Be Challenging To Remove Without Damaging Materials or Structure. SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown Can Send Experienced Professionals Within Four Hours.

When smoke comes into contact with colder surfaces, it can leave behind residues. These residues are unpleasant to look at and can often cause unpleasant odors to linger in the property. In high-pressure fires, smoke particles may penetrate the surface layers of walls and ceilings, making them even harder to clean. SERVPRO technicians have extensive training in removing stubborn soot and smoke residues. Our team has a full range of chemical cleaning products and solvents that they can use to return your home to its preloss condition. Our promise to residents of St James, Smithtown is to arrive at your property within four hours of notification of loss. 

  • Technicians can assess the pH level of soot and smokes then activate the necessary cleaning agents to remove them without causing excessive harm to the surface materials. 
  • Our range of oil and water-based solvents can be used to dissolve soot and smoke residues, which are then rinsed away from the wall. 
  • Staged carpet cleaning methods allow us to tailor our response depending on the extent of damage, helping clean up your home after a fire. 

Fires can be challenging to overcome without the correct selection of chemical agents and knowing when to use them. Contact SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown at (631) 265-9200.

Where Can Holiday Shoppers Find Unique and Unusual Gifts in St. James?

11/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO green van parked at building Smithtown homeowners count on SERVPRO to keep their homes cleaned up and safe after unfortunate fire-damaging events

Visit the St. James Smithtown Craft Fair for Hand Crafted Works and Holiday Decor

Nothing beats finding that extra-special one of a kind gift for your friends or loved ones’ holiday delight. To help with your search, consider the upcoming annual St. James -- Smithtown Craft Fair. The venue features dozens of vendors in a space large enough to observe current distancing requirements. Expect the unexpected as you peruse the wares, including:

  • Vintage and artisanal jewelry
  • Handcrafted soaps and candles
  • Wreaths and other holiday and general decor
  • Pottery and glassware

Dates and Times:

December 5 and 6, 2020                                    10:00 am -- 4:00 pm

Place: Smithtown High School

East 10 School Street

St. James, NY 11780

Contact: Telephone  631-846-1459

If your St. James holiday celebration includes an unfortunate accident with overturned artisanal candles or an ill-timed kitchen blaze, contact SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown for fast and professional smoke and fire cleanup. Contact our team at (631) 265-9200 any day of the year for the help you need.

What are Common Problems After a Home Fire in St. James?

7/19/2020 (Permalink)

fire damaged kitchen counter with toaster oven that suffered fire damage Fire damage is a hard problem to solve and you sometimes need multiple things repaired. Contact SERVPRO for fire damage remediation in your home.

SERVPRO Techs Have Extensive Training and Comprehensive Knowledge to Clean Up Any Size or Type of Fire Loss in St. James Homes

When a fire happens in a home, there can be multiple levels of loss to address. Along with the charred elements within the property, other frequently seen issues include:

  • Pungent smoke odors
  • Water damage from the extinguishing efforts
  • Stains and smoke residues to clean up
  • Mold if the water did not get extracted and dried 

Can You Paint Over Sheetrock with Smoke and Fire Damage? 

When SERVPRO technicians assist St. James homeowners with the restoration from fire damage in their homes, the property gets a thorough inspection to determine the amount of loss within the structure. The most typical actions are:   

  • Removal of charred sheetrock and building materials
  • Extraction of water
  • Inspection of home contents item by item for restoration potential
  • Set up a cleaning station to handle restorable items

During the fire loss cleanup in your St. James home, the walls and ceilings get a careful going over. Different types of smoke residues need varying types of removal methods for the best outcome. Because soot is odorous, simply painting over it on a wall or ceiling ensures that the area of the home will continue to emit residual fire odors for the foreseeable future. SERVPRO technicians test the residues to determine if it is a dry or wet smoke type and choose the best cleaning method accordingly. When the particulate gets embedded too deep within the walls or ceilings, the techs use sealants to lock the odors within the materials, and then it is ready for priming and painting.

How Does SERVPRO Stop the Spread of Soot Throughout the Home? 

The techs are very careful during fire loss cleanup in your St. James home, particularly when only a portion of the structure got affected. They contain the area by partitioning it off with heavy plastic sheeting or the use of negative air chambers; the vents also get covered, so the ductwork within the home does not receive cross-contamination.

Air quality is paramount, and although the techs wear personal protective gear during the mitigation because soot is an irritant to both come into contact with or aspirate, they also run air scrubbers to capture airborne particulate and trap it within its labyrinth of HEPA filtration.

Once the techs complete the cleanup, they can inspect the ductwork in the home; this is particularly vital if the HVAC ran at any time post-fire. They have the specific equipment to remove even years of built-up dust and debris, which also helps the heat and air conditioner run more efficiently.

Can Mold Become an Issue Post-Fire? 

With their mold remediation certification #0060, SERVPRO techs know the early warning signs for a mold infestation. They work to extract any remaining moisture that migrated under a floor or behind baseboards to ensure nothing gets left behind. In cases where conditions are favorable for mold colony establishment and growth, the techs use protective methods such as confirming interior humidity levels are under 50% or cleaning surfaces with professional-grade antimicrobials.

What is the Best Way to Handle a Roof with Fire Damage? 

When SERVPRO techs arrive on-site, one of their initial actions is to determine if the residence needs any temporary repairs or security measures. In the case of a roof with charring or open areas, it needs protection from the elements to halt any further loss to the structure. The techs can place a heavy-duty tarp in place to protect the interior until the restoration services complete, and the final repairs can get made. The techs also can secure the property when they are not on-site through the use of boarding up doors, windows, and the placement of yellow tape to form a perimeter and keep unauthorized people out of the residence.

Once the home gets cleaned, dried, and deodorized, it gets prepped for any needed repairs. The techs hold a general contractor license #51995-H. This takes the heat off the homeowner for having to locate contractors, describe the actions taken during the restoration, and point out the repairs to be made. Because the crew handled the cleanup from start to finish, we are always aware of the rebuilding that needs to happen to restore the home.

Fire damage cannot wait, contact SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown at (631) 265-9200 as soon as the fire department says it is safe to enter your property. The certified technicians can handle the restoration and rebuilding as needed to return your home to its preloss condition, "Like it never even happened."

Can My Kitchen Counters Be Restored After Minor Fire Damage?

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen with fire damage Homeowners have to deal with many things which may include fire damage. Contact SERVPRO right away.

SERVPRO Can Restore Your St. James Kitchen to Its Pre-loss Condition with Early Fire Mitigation

Cooking fires are the reason for two out of five home fires. If fire strikes your St. James kitchen early mitigation can restore your kitchen, including the counters.

How do you clean the countertops?

Kitchen fires account for approximately 44% of all home fires. This is devastating to a family. Any home in St. James with fire damage needs fire mitigation quickly. Cleaning countertops is more straightforward than cleaning and restoring walls and ceilings. There is no paint and similar substances on counters to bond with soot, making it difficult to clean. Hot air rising carries more of the smoke and soot upward too. 

Counters not only have a layer of residue but can sustain fire damage from ash or burning bits of ceiling that fall. Cleaning them involves:

  • Covering the surfaces to prevent further damage.
  • Keep moisture away from counters.
  • Dry cleaning
  • Vacuuming
  • Using water-based cleaning agents, if necessary, after all the above gets done.

Restoring the Rest of the Kitchen

Not only can our fire and smoke restoration technicians (FRST) restore your kitchen counters, they can return your kitchen to its preloss condition. Our Green Team has one goal – to leave your home, “Like it never even happened.” Soot can be one of the biggest things to deal with, but our FRST techs have many methods at their disposal.

  • Chemical cleaning agents – these can be either oil-based or water-based, depending on the item.
  • Suspension solvents – these are useful for dealing with bonded soot that needs some dwell time.
  • Lubrication – Use to remove fuel and animal proteins. 
  • Powerful equipment – this includes equipment air whips, rotary machines, and hot water extraction.
  • Contractor Licenses: General: 51995     

Remember, restoration is more cost-efficient than replacing items. For professional fire damage service, Faster To Any Size Disaster contact SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown at (631) 265 – 9200. 

Want to know more about St. James?

What Can I Expect from Professional Fire Damage Restoration Efforts in My St. James Home?

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

Servpro tech consulting with customer We're Always Faster To Any Size Disaster.

SERVPRO Follows Proven, Research-Based Mitigation, Remediation, and Restoration Protocols to Return Fire Damaged Residences in St. James to Pre-Loss Condition

When a fire disaster strikes in St. James, you likely have little or no experience as a homeowner with the shock and fear experienced during the aftermath. The damage overwhelms your senses, and you and your family are understandably on a roller coaster of emotions. The stress and confusion are substantial, and you need expert help from a reliable and capable company to get you through the recovery process.  

Do I Need One or Many Contractors to Bring Life Back to Normal After Fire Damage?

Finding one company with comprehensive training, licensing, certification, and experience to deliver wrap-around fire damage restoration in St. James is preferable. A full-service firm provides a streamlined approach, one phase of recovery following another in an efficient and effective order. Needed permits, appropriate containment, lawful disposal of hazardous residues and damaged materials, and attention to restoration of both structure and contents are all available from one source.

What Are the First Steps Fire Damage Restorers Take When Arriving at My Home?

Although we receive some details from you when you make the call, the bulk of the fire damage assessment occurs when our project manager inspects your home. After this initial safety review, the SERVPRO crews arrive with fully-stocked service vehicles ready to respond with emergency services. What does our crew chief look for during the safety evaluation? 

  • The amount and location of water and chemical damage and residue from firefighting efforts require extraction and structural drying before we begin aggressive soot and other residue removals
  • Evidence that the firefighting water collected in building cavities, including over ceilings and between walls, increasing the potential for collapse of these structures, necessitating controlled demolition to release the water for extraction
  • Signs of ongoing mold growth and damage, which adds mold remediation to our overall plan
  • Heat or burning and charring damage that weakened or destroyed load-bearing structural components including ceilings, walls, stairs, and floors, resulting in referral to our in-house construction experts or engineers in extreme cases
  • Evidence that hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead, or a wide range of chemicals were exposed during the fire, causing inclusion of a biohazard remediation phase to the overall project

After We Control for the Safety Issues, How Do Our Fire and Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) Attack Smoke and Soot Residues?

The ignition and combustion of building materials and contents create smoke, an airborne mixture of volatile gasses, water vapor, and other components, most of which are corrosive and many of which are toxic. The smoke usually has a “hue,” which reflects the incompletely combusted particles that eventually settle on surfaces as soot. After a home fire that does not involve furnace puff-back, our experts assign soot residues and typical cleanup methods into three broad categories:

Dry Soot 

This loose, ashy material is the result of a hot, fast paper or wood fire. Our Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained managers and technicians use gentle agitation, not wet strategies that smear this type of soot, for removal:

  • Dusting
  • Brushing
  • Pressurized air
  • Vacuuming
  • Dry (chemical) sponging

Wet Soot

After an electrical fire or a slow smolder of plastic, rubber, or damp fabrics, a thick sticky coating covers surfaces. We pretest products on the soot and surfaces to determine whether to choose water or oil-based cleaner for best results Detergents can bridge the gap and help loosen the bond for both types of soiling.  Methods include:

  • Foam cleaning of padded surfaces
  • Spray and wipe
  • Flooding with rinsing
  • Immersion cleaning  

The strategies above ultimately used depends on the porosity of the affected materials. Adjusting dwell time and gradually increasing degrees of agitation and abrasive tools or additives are common adaptations to improve results.

Protein-Based Soots

A typical yet challenging type of residue is the coating deposited after a kitchen fire. The food, oils, and greases responsible for the soot dehydrate rather than burn, leaving behind an intensely malodorous and tenaciously adhered varnish-like residue. Our technicians use various options to loosen and remove the coating, including:

  • Solvents
  • Solvents plus abrasive tools (professional care needed to protect surfaces)
  • Ultrasonic cleaning by certified operators for loose and detailed items 

Can SERVPRO Help with Rebuilding?

Our wide-ranging services include repairs and build-back opportunities for severe damage. Our general contractors and mold remediation licenses give us the flexibility to meet your needs without resorting to hiring additional contractors. 

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown delivers not only superior fire damage mitigation and remediation, but also helps with any required repairs, reconstruction, and build-back. For turn-key restoration services after a fire loss, call us at (631) 265-9200.

Contractor Licenses:

General: 51995-H

Mold Remediation: 0060

DID YOU KNOW THT THERE IS BEHAVIOR TO SMOKE?

11/12/2019 (Permalink)

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior of smoke.  There are two types of smoke – wet ad dry.   As a result, there are different types of soot residue after fire.


SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown technicians are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns.  Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration.   Before restoration begins, SERVPRO will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat and moisture on the building material and its contents.  The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred.  Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allow SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown to focus on saving your precious items.

Smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor.  Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread.  The following points are additional facts you may not know about smoke. 

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

Types of smoke:

  • Wet Smoke – (Plastic and Rubber) Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky and 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 can in most cases restore the contents and structure quickly.

Other types (tear gas, fingerprint power and fire extinguisher residue) Special loss situations require special care.

SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown professionals are trained to handle even the toughest of losses.  If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown to help make “Like it never even happened.”

Top Do's and Don'ts After a Fire

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

These tips will assist you in taking proper action until SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown technicians arrive. Follow these Do's and Don'ts to help reduce the damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration.

DO:

  1. Limit Movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
  2. Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
  3. Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas. 

DON'T:

  1. Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO.
  2. Do not attempt to clean electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
  3. Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage. 

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

  • Is it safe to stay in the house?
  • Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
  • Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
  • Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Every Second Counts

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Every second counts during a fire.  People have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late to get out.   In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared and have an escape plan in place.   Once a plan is developed, it is critical for everyone in the home or office understands the plan.   The best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year,  Increase your chance of surviving a fire by ensuring you have working smoke detectors in place, building and escape plan, and then practicing it,  The following are a few suggestions to help you develop and emergency escape plan. 

  • Draw a map on each level of your home or business show all the doors and windows.  Find two ways out of each room Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily.
  • Consider escape Ladders for sleeping areas on the second and third floors.  Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by ad recognized testing laboratory.  Store them near the window where they will be used. 
  • Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they’ve escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting area on your escape plan.
  • Teach Children how to escape on their own in case you can not help them. Plan for everyone in your home or office, with special consideration for elderly or disabled individuals. 
  • Always practice your fire escape plan during the day and at night time.

Emergency Fire Damage Tips

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

This kitchen sufferd a fire on the stove which caused microwave to go on fire and the cabinet.

These emergency tips will assist you in taking proper action until SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown to arrive.  Follow these Do’s and don’ts to help reduce damage and increase chances of a successful restoration. 

DO:

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into carpet and avoid tracking.
  • Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
  • If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
  • Wipe soot from metal kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances.
  • If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
  • Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON’T:

  • Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown professional.
  • Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet, rugs or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown professional.
  • Don’t attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water.
  • Don’t consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
  • Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock and air movement may create secondary damage.
  • Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

When fire and water damage take control of your life, SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown will help you take it back.

Fire Prevention

10/30/2017 (Permalink)

OCTOBER IS FIRE PREVENTION MONTH Fire experts agree; people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it's too late to get out. In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared and have an escape plan in place. The following are a few suggestions to help you develop an emergency escape plan. Draw a map of each level of your home show all doors and windows. Find two ways to get out of each room. Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily. Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on second and third floors. Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory. Store them near the window where they will be used. Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they've escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting place on your escape plan. Teach Children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them. Plan for everyone in your home, with special considerations for elderly or disabled individuals. Practice your Fire Escape plan during the day and at nighttime, at least twice a year.  A Business Plan for Fire Emergencies.... Organize and Emergency Preparedness procedures review with you employees to review your company's emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan. Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked and well lit, wide enough to accommodate the number of evacuating personnel, and unobstructed and clear of debris at all times. Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Designate a safe spot outside of the facility where employees can regroup, recover, and conduct a head count. Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed. Please remember SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown is here for your emergency needs. Smoke Damage, Water Damage, Mold Remediation, we will make it "Like it never even happened." 631-265-9200

Smoke Alarms Save Lives

1/30/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

In homes:

smoke alarms should be in every bedroom.

Outside each sleeping area and on every level, including the basement. 

Extra Smoke alarms may be needed in large homes.

Test Smoke alarms monthly using test button.  Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years.   Other alarms need batteries replaced every year, and the unit replaced every ten years.  If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately.  Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm.  Almost half of the fires where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries. 

If you need help installing, testing or changing batteries in your spoke alarms, contact your local fire department, and electrician or the American Red Cross.

Be sure your home has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills with your family.

For more information on Emergency Preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown @ 631-265-9200

Smoke and Soot Damage in Smithtown home

1/26/2017 (Permalink)

Soot Webs throughout the home

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 631-265-9200

Winter Heating Hazards

1/17/2017 (Permalink)

Types of Heaters

Did you know 50% of all residential heating-related fires are reported during the Months of December, January and February?

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

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.

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

Test smoke alarms monthly.  

If your property does suffer fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown to help make it "Like it never even happened"

Eliminate heating hazards this winter

12/18/2015 (Permalink)

The winter season is in full swing! The days are shorter and the temperatures are lower. No matter where you live, winter brings a change in the 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.
  • Test smoke alarms monthly.

If your property does suffer fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Escape planning for your business in case of a fire

12/15/2015 (Permalink)

Before we touched on how to prepare for escaping from a fire in your home, but if you own commercial property it could be a bit different. And although an emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business during an emergency situation. OSHA suggests the following steps when developing such a plan.

Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company's emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team to lead and coordinate your emergency plan.

Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked and well-lit, wide enough to accomodate the number of evacuating personnel, and unobstructed and clear of debris at all times. 

Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Designate a safe spot outside of the facility where employees can regroup, recover, and conduct a head count. Once complete, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.

Tips provided by the National Fire Protection Association and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Be ready for a home fire by preparing an escape plan

12/15/2015 (Permalink)

October was Fire Prevention Month, but considering our last blog post, it seems like a good idea to talk about fire prevention and what to do in case it happens.

A house fire can happen to ANYONE, and every second counts. In a matter of moments, a small flame can turn into a major fire, mating it critial to be perpared by having an escape plan in place. A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows only 26 percent of families have developes and practiced a home fire escape plan. Once a plan is developes, it is critical everyone in the home understands the plan; the best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year. The following are a few suggestions to help you develop an emergency escape plan.

Draw a map of each level of your home and show all doors and windows. Find two ways to get out of each room. Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily.

Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second and third floor. Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory. Store them near the window where they well be used.

Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they've escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting place on your escape plan.

Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them.

Plan for everyone in your home with special considerations for elderly or disabled individuals.

Practice your fire escape plan at night AND during the daytime.

Steer clear of fires this year!

12/14/2015 (Permalink)

Here's a few facts about you might not know about fires during this season!

  • One of every three home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.
  • A heat source too close to the tree causes roughly one in every six Christmas tree fires.
  • More than half (56%) of home candle fires occur when something that can catch on fire is too close to the candle.
  • December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. In December, 11 percent of home candle fires began with decorations compared to 4 percent the rest of the year!
  • Although Christmas tree fires are uncommon, when they do occur they are more likely to be serious.

The above facts are provided by the National Fire Protection Association.

Avoid holiday hazards!

12/10/2015 (Permalink)

Review the following simple safety tips, provided by the National Fire Protection Association, to greatly reduce the fire risk in your home or business this holiday season. 

  • Two out of five home decoration fires are started by candles. Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that burns
  • Use sturdy candle holders that are not likely to tip over and place candles on clear, uncluttered surfaces. Consider using flameless candles instead of real candles.
  • Make sure your tree and decorations are at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, candles or heat vents.
  • Make sure you have the correct type of lights for your desired decor. Some lights are designed for only indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
  • Carefully inspect light strands before placing them. Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of lights sets.
  • Remember to turn off outside decorative lights and Christmas tree lights before leaving the house or going to bed.
  • Get rid of your tree after Christmas or when it is dry. Dried-out trees are a fire hazard and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home. Check with your local community to find a recycling program.
  • Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

Everyone here at SERVPRO of Greater Smithtown wishes you a safe and happy holiday season!