How to Recover From Fire Damage in Your Grove City Home

11/8/2023 (Permalink)

Recovering from fire damage in your home can be a daunting task, but there are steps you can take to make the process more manageable.

Recovering from fire damage in your home can be a daunting task, but there are steps you can take to make the process more manageable. First, assess the damage and work with your insurance provider to file a claim. Work with a fire restoration expert to clean up and repair any damage, including soot removal, replacing damaged materials, and repairing any structural damage.

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties have been serving in the fire damage restoration industry for over 20 years! We are a trusted fire and water restoration company and we are always Here to Help! Finally, take steps to prevent future fires by installing smoke detectors and fire extinguishers and creating a fire escape plan for your household. 

Here at SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties, we also work directly with your insurance to help ease the stress of experiencing a fire disaster. Our team is sure to communicate thoroughly with you from start to finish to provide you with the best experience possible. If you have experienced fire damage and need assistance, don’t hesitate to give us a call. For immediate assistance, call (724) 704-8939, or visit our Website to learn more!

3 Holiday Fire Hazards to Look Out for in Your New Castle Home

10/23/2023 (Permalink)

With much cooking during Thanksgiving and Christmas along with the hustle and bustle, fire risk extremely increases.

Fire hazards are most common during the holidays. With much cooking during Thanksgiving and Christmas along with the hustle and bustle, fire risk extremely increases. ESFI.org states, “According to reports from the United States Fire Administration (USFA), incidence of fires caused by cooking, heating, and open flame all increase during the winter holiday period.” Here is your warning to be extra cautious while cooking during the holidays. To help you stay safe while cooking during the holidays, here are some 3 tips to keep your kitchen from catching fire:

• Always stay in the room while food is in the oven or on the stove
• Set a timer for things that are cooking so it doesn’t burn or catch fire
• Keep fabrics such as towels or oven mitts off of the stove and counters

If you follow these three tips, you should be fairly safe from kitchen fires. If you do happen to experience a fire during the holiday seasons, you can reach out to SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties to help restore your Sandy Lake, Ellwood City, New Castle, and surrounding areas home to make it, ‘Like it never even happened.’ We are available 24/7 for emergency fire disasters. Give us a call for immediate assistance, (724) 704-8939,  or visit our website to Learn More.

How to Keep Your Pet Safe After a Fire in Your Farrell Home

8/26/2023 (Permalink)

If you have experienced a fire in your Farrell home, there are best practices to help keep your pet safe.

There is no doubt that our pets are considered family members. We love them and take care of them at all costs. If you have experienced a fire in your Farrell home, there are best practices to help keep your pet safe. If you have not experienced a fire in your home and you do have pets, these tips are good to know just in case a fire disaster were to occur.

How You Can Keep Your Pet Safe

SERVPRO is a national sponsor for The American Red Cross. Home fires are the most common disaster that the American Red Cross responds to. Here are tips from American Red Cross on how to keep your pet safe in the case of a home fire:

• The best way to protect your pets from the effects of a fire is to include them in your family plan. This includes having their own disaster supplies kit as well as arranging in advance for a safe place for them to stay if you need to leave your home.
•   When you practice your escape plan, practice taking your pets with you. Train them to come to you when you call.
•   In the event of a disaster, if you must evacuate, the most important thing you can do to protect your pets is to evacuate them, too. But remember never delay escape or endanger yourself or family to rescue a family pet.

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties is always Here to Help. If your Farrell, Reynolds Heights, Hope Milles, or surrounding areas home or business experiences a fire disaster, give us a call at (724) 704-8939 for immediate assistance, or visit our Website!

4 Ways to Remove the Smell of Cigarette Smoke in Your New Castle Home

7/24/2023 (Permalink)

Cigarette smell can linger around and cause unpleasant odor for a long time after the last cigarette has been put out.

Whether it is from a guest or family member staying in your home, previous tenants, or even yourself, cigarette smell can linger around and cause unpleasant odor for a long time after the last cigarette has been put out. 

There are a few methods you can try to reduce or eliminate the odor in your Sharon home so you can breathe easy.

• Wash your clothes and other soft items

One of the easiest ways to deodorize your home is to simply use your washing machine. Porous items such as clothing, bedding, and stuffed toys can trap odors and contribute to the unpleasant smell in your home. Washing everything you can helps reduce some of the smell.

• Use a dry-cleaning service

For items that you cannot toss in a washing machine, dry cleaning is an option. Dry cleaning typically involves using cleaning solvents to remove dirt and contaminants from your clothing. Unfortunately, the cleaning solvents do not always penetrate the material and it may not be able to entirely remove the odor in some cases.

• Clean walls and floors

Cigarette smoke, and the substances in it, can cling to your walls and flooring. Doing a thorough clean of your Sharon home may be able to remove some of the lingering odor. You should scrub your walls with a mild detergent and deep clean any carpeted areas.

• Hire a professional cleaning company

If you are unable to get rid of the smell on your own, a cleanup and restoration service can help. Not only will they have the experience and expertise necessary to thoroughly clean your Ellwood City home, they will also have access to special equipment. This includes equipment such as ozone machines that can change the chemical compounds of smoke molecules and will be more effective at home deodorization than a home remedy.

While it may be frustrating to have such an unpleasant smell permeating your Sharon home, remember that there are several ways that you can remove smoke odor. If you are unsuccessful on your own, call SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties! We are fire and water restoration experts.

Visit our Website for more information, or call (724) 704-8939 for immediate assistance.

Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration in New Castle, PA

7/24/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties are fire and water damage restoration specialists. We are always Here to Help, 24/7.

An elementary school fire took place a while back. The fire disaster was rather large. From the fire came damage from smoke and water from the sprinklers going off. The restoration process became very intricate and unique due to school starting in just a month. It was top priority to get this school back to “Like it never even happened” in a month.

The Fire Restoration Process

There was a fire in a home in New Castle, PA. Resulting from that fire was a lot of smoke and soot damage. The home had been severely damaged from smoke and soot following a fire in a neighboring bedroom. While the fire was eventually contained by the fire department, its impact was felt by several rooms throughout the home. Our crews used utilized state of art equipment and industry proved cleaning techniques to restore the bathroom to its preloss condition.

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties are fire and water damage restoration specialists. We are always Here to Help, 24/7. Give us a call at (724) 704-8939 for immediate assistance, or visit our Website!

Why are Fires More Common on Holidays in New Beaver?

7/24/2023 (Permalink)

Special activities plus a large gathering of people in one place increases the risk for a fire in the home.

During the holidays, there tends to be more commotion than during other months during the year. Many people have family gatherings for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Special activities plus a large gathering of people in one place increases the risk for a fire in the home. There tends to be cooking, candle lighting, live trees, and chaos. It is important to be safe and know what to look out for in the midst of holiday fun!

What to Look Out for During the Holidays

What is a holiday without lights, decorations, and festivities? You do not have to go without having fun and holiday cheer to stay safe during the holidays. Here are a few things to look out for to prevent fires for the upcoming holidays:

• Avoid deep-frying a turkey.
• Make sure to always water a live tree.
• Make sure to keep decoration lights away from flammable objects.

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties are fire and water damage restoration specialists with specific training and expertise to safely restore your home or business. We are always Here to Help, 24/7. If you are in need of cleanup, give us a call at (724) 704-8939 for immediate assistance, or visit our Website!

Thanksgiving Safety for Sharon, PA

11/9/2022 (Permalink)

Be sure to pay close attention to any food on the stove or in the oven on Thanksgiving day!

As we are gearing towards the season with the most home fires, it is important to plan for an unpredicted disaster.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, “Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires with more than three times the daily average for such incidents.”

The leading cause of Thanksgiving fires stems from lack of attention to food on the stove and turkey fryers. The NFPA urges citizens to “Stay in the kitchen and focus on the food you are cooking on the stovetop.”  They also suggest that children stay out of the kitchen in case of fire, hot oil, knives, and hot stoves. Keep your family safe this holiday season.

If you or someone you know experiences a detrimental fire during the holiday season, contact your local SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties for disaster relief. We can serve the entire Mercer and Lawrence County area, from Sharon, to New Castle, to Grove City, and everything in between. Call us at (724) 704-8939 or visit our Website. We too, are homeowners of the area and want to make sure our community is taken care of.

Fire Safety Tips for Ellport, PA Residents

10/21/2022 (Permalink)

Fall is the season of bonfires and cookouts and along with those come new safety tips to keep you, your family, and your home safe.

Believe it or not, fire safety changes with the seasons! Fall is the season of bonfires and cookouts and along with those come new safety tips to keep you, your family, and your home safe. On average, around 10,600 home fires are started each year by grills. 

Bonfire Safety:  

• Stop, drop, and roll
• Follow the rules of your town or park
• Keep gas, lighter fluid, and other flammable materials far away from the fire
• Check your location before starting a fire to make sure the fire will not spread to a forest
• Be prepared and know how to put out a fire. Douse it with water or cover it with dirt

Grilling Safety:

• Propane and charcoal grills should always be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed away from overhangs, deck railings, and any low hanging branches.
• Never pour lighter fluid on a lit grill
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it
• Keep children and pets away from the area

If you experience fire damage, need help, or have any questions about the tips above, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties at (724) 704-8939 or visit our website. We are here to keep our Ellport, New Beaver and West Pittsburg community members safe while having fun.

How to Cope After a Fire in Your Sandy Lake Home

8/26/2022 (Permalink)

House fires are devastating for several reasons. It is not easy to lose the place you call home and experience damage to your belongings.

House fires in your New Castle or Ellwood City area home are devastating for several reasons. It is not easy to lose the place you call home and experience damage to your belongings that have a lifetime of meaning behind them. SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties understands the difficulty of losing things that have sentimental meaning. That is why we offer a service in the New Castle/New Wilmington/Mercer area that cares for your belongings. We have the capability to fully restore your treasured belongings after a fire. If these items are damaged by smoke or soot, we can restore them. This provides a sliver of hope because it shows that not everything was lost. We are here to comfort you and help you in a disaster such as this.

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties specializes in mitigating disasters. If you have experienced a fire loss, you need someone you can count on, day or night. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We are always Here to Help. Call us at any hour (even on holidays) at (724) 704-8939 or visit our Website.

Fire Damage Prevention Tips in Your Hermitage Business.

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

We highly suggest to all New Castle business owners to help keep your Lawrence County business fire free by checking out these key suggestions!

Fire damage is a disaster no one ever expects to happen to their Hermitage, Sharon, or Farrell commercial business. How would your business respond to a fire? And what steps are in place are in place to prevent a fire in the first place in your Hermitage business? SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties has important suggestions when it comes to fire prevention. We highly suggest to all business owners in the New Castle/New Wilmington area to help keep your business fire free by checking out these key suggestions! 

Check Your Smoke Detectors- Smoke detectors are the very first line of defense your business has. A properly working fire alarm system can be the difference of catastrophic damage to your business or not.

• Invest in a Fire Extinguisher- Fire extinguishers are investment that can potentially save your New Castle business from the damages of a fire. Any fire has the potential to get out of control very quickly, a fire extinguisher can prevent this from happening.
• Cord Safety – New Castle offices can have cluttered cords, which is why we suggest no outlets should ever be overloaded. One spark is all it takes to start a fire in a business, especially in an office.
• Have a Plan- Your Ellwood City business should have a plan in place to help ensure the safe evacuation of employees, you can never be too prepared. What is your plan?

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties is a locally owned and operated business. We are part of this community, so when you have a cleaning or restoration need, we are already nearby and ready to help. We are a premier fire and water restoration and cleaning company. We know that it's crucial to be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year (Even holidays!). For immediate assistance give us a call at (724) 704-8939 or visit us on our Website.

What to Do After a House Fire in New Castle, PA

7/23/2022 (Permalink)

When a house fire occurs in your New Castle home you are often left with nothing. You may be wondering where to go, who to call, and what to do.

House fires are detrimental to New Castle, Ellwood City, Greenville families and communities alike. For both it is unexpected, and it causes others to think the same thing could happen to them. When a house fire occurs in your New Wilmington home, you are often left with nothing. You may be wondering where to go, who to call, and what to do. The American Red Cross has a great short article called ‘Picking Up The Pieces After a Fire.’ Here are some topics from this helpful article:

• Recovering Emotionally
• Helping Pets
• Checking Your Home
• Recovering Financially
• Rebuilding

If you are finding that you need a New Castle company to do repairs in your home, SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties can help. SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties specializes in fire and water damage restoration and cleanup. If you have experienced a fire or water disaster, time is of the essence, and you need someone you can call on as soon as you need them. Call us at any time, day, or night at (724) 704-8939 or visit our Website. We are always Here to Help, even on holidays! 

5 Tips on How to Prevent a Fire in Your Hope Mills Home

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

here are important things to observe and learn so you can take the proper precautions in preventing a fire in your home.

If you are looking to prevent a house fire and become more knowledgeable on the topic, you are in the right place. Housefires are most common in the winter time due to frequent cooking around the holidays. There are important things to observe and learn so you can take the proper precautions in preventing a fire in your home. Below are 5 ways to prevent a house fire in your home according to the American Red Cross:

• All heaters need space. Keep children, pets and things that can burn (paper, matches, bedding, furniture, clothing, carpets, and rugs) at least three feet away from heating equipment.
• If you must use a space heater, place it on a level, hard and nonflammable surface (such as ceramic tile floor), not on rugs, carpets or near bedding or drapes. Plug power cords directly into outlets - never into an extension cord.
• Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended, and use a glass or metal fire screen to keep fire and embers in the fireplace.
• Never use a cooking range or oven to heat your home.
• Turn off portable space heaters every time you leave the room or go to sleep.

Specializing in fire and water restoration and cleanup, SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties is the right business to call if have experienced a disaster in your Hope Mills, Mercer, or Hermitage home. It is essential that you have a company you can count on to be there fast, and we are available for emergency services 24/7, even on holidays. Call us at any time, day, or night at (724) 704-8939 or visit our Website. We are here to make it Like it Never Even Happened! 

How to Stay Safe for Thanksgiving in Fredonia, PA

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

In 2018, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,630 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving, the peak day for such fires.

Thanksgiving is a time for family and a lot of time spent in the kitchen. Did you know, Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day, the day before Thanksgiving, Easter, and Christmas Eve? This just goes to say, it is best to take extra precaution when cooking on this day. There are many reasons why this holiday can be the most dangerous.

Why is Thanksgiving the Most Dangerous Holiday?

Most people can probably agree that most of the cooking on a holiday is done on Thanksgiving. The holiday is all about gathering in thanks over food! According to nfpa.org, “In 2018, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,630 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving, the peak day for such fires.” That is astonishing! Here are a few tips to avoid fires in the kitchen:

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stove top 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.

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties is a fire and water damage restoration specialist with specific training and expertise to safely restore your home or business. We have the training, tools, and expertise to clean up any job, big or small. We service Freedonia, Lake Latonka, Mercer, and New Wilmington. We are always Here to Help, 24/7, even on holidays. Give us a call at (724) 704-8939 for immediate assistance, or visit our Website to learn more. 

Can Lightning Cause a Fire at Your Home in Sharpsville?

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

“...U.S. local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 22,600 fires per year that were started by lightning.”

According to the National Fire Protection Association, “...U.S. local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 22,600 fires per year that were started by lightning.” Death, injury, and property damage can be results of lightning striking a home.

What if Lightning Starts a Fire in My Home?

Lightning-related fires are more common in June through August and in the late afternoon and evening. Peak seasons for lightning-related fires vary by region, as do weather patterns in general. If lightning strikes your home and causes a fire, evacuate immediately and call 911. Once the fire is put out, you will most likely have fire as well as water damage. There are a few things you should not do after a fire to help keep you and your family safe.

• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat, or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a cleaning or restoration need, we are already nearby and ready to help. We are a Fire and Water - Restoration and Cleanup company. We are Here to Help, 24/7. For immediate assistance give us a call at (724) 704-8939 or visit us on our Website.

Did You Know There Can Be Water Damage Following a Fire?

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

After the firefighting efforts, you can see considerable amounts of water enter your home.

Let’s run through a scenario. You have a fire in your Hermitage home, your family gets out safe because you had a Fire Escape Plan, and you come back to fire damage in your home. But wait, there is water damage too? Following a fire, you can have water damage. How is this possible?

After the firefighting efforts, you can see considerable amounts of water enter your home. This is common! So common that Step 4 of our Fire Damage Restoration Process is “Water Removal and Drying.” SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties can handle fire damage as well as water damage restoration in your Hermitage home following a disaster.

We have highly trained restoration technicians. Our team comes with valuable experience as well as the best equipment in the industry. This combination allows us to make any disaster “Like it never even happened.”

When your Hermitage home is in need, get the restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties on your side. Call us at (724) 704-8939 or visit our Website to get your home back to preloss condition today!

What to Do After a Fire at Your Mercer County Home

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties is here to remind our residents that your first concern during a fire should always be safety.

Having a fire at your Hermitage home is one scary thought. There are so many thoughts running through your head about what to save. But SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties is here to remind our residents that your first concern during a fire should always be safety.

Here are some things to ensure you do after a fire:

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

Although tempting. These are the things you should try to avoid doing after a fire:

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your Hermitage home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. This type of damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

If you have questions…call SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties today at (724) 704-8939.

Fire Damage Repair and Restoration in Mercer and Lawrence County

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

We have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Fire and smoke damage is especially destructive. In many instances your Hermitage property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts. We specialize in fire and water damage restoration; it is the cornerstone of our business. We have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. 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 Fire Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action. 

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

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority 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 from All Surfaces

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 and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. 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.

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today – (724) 704-8939

How SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties Cares for Your Belongings Differently

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

We take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding.

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your home or business but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties understands your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings make your house more than a structure; they make it home.

At SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties our philosophy is restore...don't replace. Within twenty-four hours we can collect, restore and return your emergency items back to you. The remainder of your soft goods can be recovered and restored within a week. This provides a simpler and faster claims settlement process and allows you to retain items with sentimental value. 

Whether it be contaminated water and sewage, heavy smoke and soot, mold, or bio-waste contaminated goods, we can restore any item by removing 99% of any contaminants. We utilize the next generation of washing systems with patented restoration technology that is capable of restoring over 90% of the soft contents in a home to food grade clean. 

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition. We use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

• 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 we cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.
   

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. Move-out will provide several benefits, including:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

Electronic Cleanup

Fire-damaged electronics can present a serious hazard. Do not attempt to turn on or operate any electrical device that you suspect has been damaged by fire. Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces. If the residues are not removed, corrosion causes electronic failure in the device. We will coordinate the restoration of your electronics, including:

• Television sets
• DVD players
• Computers
• And more

The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. Electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician.

Document / Photograph Drying

When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water or fire, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the fire damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-fire damage condition, SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. 

Depending on the type of documents and the level of fire, smoke, or soot damage, they have five options for the restoration of documents:

• Air Drying
• Dehumidification
• Freezer Drying
• Vacuum Freeze Drying
• Vacuum Thermal Drying

Contents Claim Inventory Service

When a fire emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. We can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings. We take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding.

Our Contents Claim Inventory Service:

• Pre-loss list and value of contents
• Detailed and accurate report
• Better information to settle claims quicker
• Assistance with burden of proof for claims

Peace of mind when you need it most!

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call Us Today – (724) 704-8939

Tips for Preventing Electrical Fires at Your Home

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

Keep flammable items away from electrical outlets. Keeping blankets, furniture, and other flammable materials away from outlets helps prevent fire.

One of the most terrifying thoughts a homeowner can have is thinking about their house burning down. Electrical fires are at the forefront of this fear---since most of the time they are not visible to the naked eye.

Electrical fires, while not as common as kitchen fires, only make up about 5%-10% of home structure fires. However, this should not be a deterrent to ignore warning signs. SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties is here to give you some important tips to prevent an electrical fire from happening at your home.

1. Get your wiring checked. While this seems like it would be common sense, most homeowners do not get their wiring checked by a licensed professional. You should do this especially if the wiring is more than a decade old.
2. Repair old wiring. If you notice the wires are visibly frayed, worn down, or the internal wiring exposed, this indicates it is a good time to switch those out for new.
3. Check those electrical outlets too. Wires are not the only thing that catches fire. Old electrical outlets can be a major fire and shock hazard.
4. Add more electrical outlets to your home. This spaces out the electronics, appliances and other items you plug in, which in turn reduces electrical hazard.
5. Keep flammable items away from electrical outlets. Keeping blankets, furniture, and other flammable materials away from outlets helps prevent fire.
6. Invest in surge protectors not just extension cords. Especially with Christmas season coming. A power surge can cause sparking which can turn hazardous as well.
7. Replace older appliances that seem like they are on their last leg. If you gut is telling you its time for a new fridge---it probably is. Especially if you hear strange sounds or notice any flickering from the appliance.

If you are affected by an electrical fire. SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition. Call us anytime. We are here to treat your home and your belonging just like we would treat our own. Call (724) 704-8939.

National Fire Safety Month: Smoke Alarm Testing

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

You should be testing the alarm monthly to ensure the battery has not died and changing the batteries in the Spring and the Fall

October is here. Beautiful leaves are falling to the ground here in Western Pennsylvania. More importantly…October is Fire Prevention Month. Something many of us know, but we don’t do much to get ready around the home. SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties is here to remind you of the most basic thing you can do to protect your home before the cold months come…test your smoke alarms.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month and batteries should be replaced at least once or twice a year.

There are two kinds of smoke detectors. Battery operated and AC-powered. Battery operated are the more common, more affordable option. They require bi-yearly inspection to make sure the battery is operating properly. AC-powered are installed by a certified electrician. They are pricier, yet more dependable over a long period of time. However, they should have an independent battery backup in the case a storm or electrical fire creates a power outage.

All smoke detectors have a test button to properly asses if they are working. They also have lights that blink to show they are using power. You should be testing the alarm monthly to ensure the battery has not died and changing the batteries in the Spring and the Fall.

This is also a great time to clear the unit of any dust or debris. Never use a solvent cleaner. Use a vacuum instead. This could contaminate the sensor and break the detector.

The test button may check if the batteries are working okay. But it does not really prove if the detector is able to identify smoke. To check if the detector is working to its full potential---light two or three matches and blow them out underneath the detector to check the functionality.

The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) states that the best location for a smoke detector is on the ceiling near a doorway or stairway. As a fire burns, the smoke rises and seeks easiest route of escape. Kitchens, basements are a top priority to place a smoke detector.  

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties is an expert when it comes to fire damage. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (724) 704-8939

How to Stop a Beeping Smoke Alarm

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

A properly functioning smoke alarm is crucial in keeping you and your family safe in case of a fire!

A smoke alarm that is beeping when there is no fire or smoke requires maintenance. Otherwise, you will be stuck with it beeping for hours on end...like Phoebe in Friends. 

The specific steps to reset your smoke alarm or change the batteries depends on the alarm design. Here are three ways to determine what is wrong with your smoke alarm and ensure it is working properly.

1. Reset and Clean the Alarm: If you are using an alarm powered by a nine-volt battery, detach the unit from the mounting bracket and remove the battery.

On a 10-year model with a lithium battery, press and hold down the reset button.

If the alarm is hardwired, turn off the power supply at the circuit breaker, detach the detector and disconnect the power supply. Press and hold the test button for 15-20 seconds.

You can also use an air blower to clean out the vents prior to reinstalling the alarm.

2. Change the Batteries: If the smoke alarm is powered by replaceable batteries and starts beeping again, you probably need to change the battery. It is recommended that you change the batteries every six months to one year.

2. Deactivate and Replace the Alarm: If the alarm is still beeping after cleaning it and replacing the battery, you may just need to replace it. Remove the batteries before purchasing and installing another alarm unit.

For the 10-year model, you will need to disconnect the alarm, and use a screwdriver to the straight line next to the arrow on the back. Turn the screw to the off position to permanently deactivate the model and drain the battery.

A functioning smoke alarm is crucial in keeping you and your family safe in case of a fire. If a fire does break out and you need help, SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties is ready. We are fire and water mitigation experts. 24 hours day, 7 days a week, we are ready to serve you!

Call us if you need our help! (724) 704-8939

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How Did Those Spider Webs Get There?

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

If you have fire, smoke, or soot damage, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties!

After a fire, no matter the size, customers will sometimes find a collection of what look like spider webs on their ceilings and walls. What follows is usually some confusion and embarrassment as to how they got there and did not notice them before.

The good news for them is that the “spider webs” are not actually spiders webs at all and not a reflection of their cleaning abilities. The “spider webs” are actually called “soot tags.”

During a fire, smoke and soot circulate throughout the house and the heat will try to move toward cooler air to equalize the temperature. In areas with less circulation, like ceilings, and corners the soot tags can begin to form. Soot tags are just chains of dirt that accumulate in areas with low circulation.

Even after dusting them off, they can reoccur immediately or over time. Avoid spraying the tags with water or getting them wet and wiping them as it will just smear them and stain.

The best way to combat soot tags is to call SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties. We will come in and professionally clean and restore any of your belongings that were damaged in the fire.

If you need our help, give us a call! (724) 704-8939.

Connect with us on Instagram.

Power Strip Safety Tips

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO recommends following our safety tips when using power strips and surge protectors so you don't have an electrical fire on your hands!

What would we do without our power strips in 2020? So many different things need plugged in, there is no way the contractors installed enough outlets in one room. From hair styling tools, TV’s, and phone chargers, to cooking equipment, light fixtures, and gaming systems, it is safe to assume that if a power strip has 10 outlets, you can use all 10 correct? Not exactly!

Most people probably don’t give much thought to how many appliances are plugged in at once. Unfortunately, about 4,600 house fires are started every year as a result of overused power strips and extension cords.

Power Strip versus Surge Protector

• A power strip and surge protector look relatively similar. They are skinny, rectangular, plastic boxes with multiple outlets for you to plug things in. This is what makes it super easy to confuse the two when in the mass chaos of Walmart.
• Surge protectors may be a bit more expensive and have additional lights near the power button that light up when plugged in. Additionally, they usually have internal components that help prevent spikes and surges in power that can ruin your devices.

A common misconception about surge protectors is that they protect against lightning. Unfortunately, this is not true. Lightning is much too powerful; a surge protector doesn’t stand a chance.

Some simple safety tips:

• Never plug in a major appliance to power strips or surge protectors. Space heaters, dehumidifiers, and other major appliances should be plugged directly into the wall.
• Never use power strips or extension cords in a bathroom or on the kitchen countertop
• When shopping, don’t just look at the price tag. Make sure you are getting the correct item for your needs.
• Never try to make a room prettier by covering up cords with a rug. This can be a serious fire hazard.
• Use power strips sparingly. They are not designed to maintain a high load for extended periods of time.

If you find yourself needing help after a house fire, SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties is ready to help! We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will treat your home and family with respect, empathy, and care.

Have questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call us at (724) 704-8939.

Connect with us on Instagram.

Summer Grilling Safety in Sharpsville, PA

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties wants you to stay as safe as possible this summer and we urge you to follow our safety tips!

Summer is prime season for outdoor picnics, grilling, campfires, and BBQ’s with friends and family. With many of the fun summer activities comes the risk of fire related injuries and damage.

The US Fire Administration on Grilling Fire Safety has a few safety tips to keep you and your family safe:

•  Only use your grill outside
• Keep grill at least 3 feet from siding, deck rails and eaves
• Clean your grill after each use to remove grease build up that could start a fire
• Open your gas grill before lighting
• Keep a 3-foot safe zone around your grill for children and pets
• Place coals from your grill in a metal can with lid after they have cooled
• Always keep watch over your grill, fire pit and patio torches. Do not walk away from them while they are lit
• Use long handled BBQ tools
• Wear short sleeves or roll up long sleeves during cooking and do not wear loose fitting clothing that could catch on fire

As always, SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties wants you to stay safe this summer! If you do experience fire, smoke, or soot damage, do not hesitate to call us. SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties provides an immediate response and emergency clean-up services.

If you have any questions about these tips or need help – give us a call (724) 704-8939.

Fire Safety: The Importance of Fire Drills in Mercer Schools

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Fire drills provide the opportunity to reduce panic and increase confidence when preparing for the unexpected.

Safety is the number one priority in school districts. Teaching preparedness and safety procedures is not only necessary in schools but it is also a legal requirement. 

Fire drills are necessary for schools’ staff to review plans with their students at the beginning of the school year.

Young students should be told when there is a drill and  taught to familiarize themselves with the sounds of the alarms and the procedures necessary to evacuate the building smoothly and safely.  

During fire drills, students have the opportunity to become aware of the building layout. When educating young learners, it is the responsibility of the staff and administration to educate and prepare for when a disaster may strike. 

Fire drills provide the opportunity to reduce panic and increase confidence when preparing for the unexpected. 

Consistency and communication are key when conducting fire drills. Communicating with your local fire department is beneficial during an emergency and also builds strong community relations.

There is a need to practice! There is a need to prepare! If you should ever need our help, we will be there! If your Mercer and Lawrence County school is in need of disaster preparedness plan call us today - we are here to help! 

SERVPRO Offers Smoky Savings

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

The more you know, the better you can respond. Knowing the different types of smoke enables our team to craft a unique response to each fire incident.

To handle the worst, you need to have the best. 

At SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties, we believe the above statement to be true. That is why we invest in the latest equipment, state of the art technology, and productive technicians. We understand that recovery time from a disaster is reliant upon the resources available.

For this reason, we work hard to ensure that Mercer and Lawrence County residents and business owners have access to professional equipment and processes that help reduce the cost of claims.

When time is of the essence, we count on the right equipment and right team to respond correctly. Our team of highly trained professionals are knowledgeable and experienced in mitigating different types of disasters. For instance, they know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns.

Types of smoke:

• Wet smoke – plastics and synthetics; low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary
• Dry smoke – paper and wood; fast burning, high temperature, dry, powdery, non-smeary residues 
• Protein – virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor
• Fuel Oil Soot – furnace puff backs
• Other types – tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue

The more you know, the better you can respond. Knowing the different types of smoke enables our team to craft a efficient and effective response to each fire incident.

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties has years of fire, water, mold and mitigation experience. With our state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained professionals we make even your most daunting disaster, “Like it never even happened.”

When to Board Up After a Fire in Mercer, PA

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

If your property is damaged from smoke and soot following a fire, call us anytime. We are available 24/7, 365 and always here to help!

When the unexpected happens, you want SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties there! Incurring a fire can be an overwhelming and unpredictable experience. That’s why our priority at SERVPRO is to help you get back to normal as soon as possible. Boarding up your property after a fire can be one way to limit the structural damage and prevent any further loss from occurring.

Not sure if boarding up is the right move for you?

Here are four reasons why a board up may fit your situation following a fire disaster.

1. Property Protection – One reason you may board up is if there are still viable products in the property. These items may need cleaning or other repairs but are not intended to be sold. By boarding up the property, you can help prevent them from being stolen.
2. Protection from People – Some may see an opening in your property and consider that an invitation to enter. If you board up your property it not only protects indivudals from potentially hurting themselves in a damage structure, but also protects your property from invasion.
3. Coverage Protection – if you fail to board up after a fire, it is possible that your insurance company could discontinue your coverage. Failure to board up when necessary could be viewed as negligence in the eyes of your provider, and in some cases lead to a rejected claim.

Figuring out how to repair your property from a fire can be a scary feeling. With SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties – it doesn’t have to be! Our crews have the training, experience, and empathy to help your restore your property and your peace from fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

If your property is damaged from smoke and soot following a fire, call us anytime. We are available 24/7, 365 and always here to help!

Fire Damage Restoration Process: Do’s & Don’ts

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

When a fire threatens to destroy your investment, you want the team of trusted professionals on site to protect and restore.

At SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties we understand that your commercial or residential property is your biggest asset. When a fire threatens to destroy your investment, you want the team of trusted professionals on site to protect and restore. We have the right tools and techniques to respond to any size fire damage in your Mercer County home or business. However, there are a few steps you can take to ensure the complete recovery of your home or business.

In the event of a fire….

DO:

• Contact a certified restoration specialist: this should be done immediately (we are available 24/7)
• Limit movement in the home or business to prevent soot from embedding into the upholstery and carpets
• Turn off utilities: turn off water, electricity, gas, and other utilities until a professional has evaluated the damage to these systems
• Check appliances: utilities should be off, so ensure the fridge is empty and open the doors to prevent mold and mildew

DON’T:

• Use your air conditioner: wait until a professional arrives
• Eat leftover food: this food is most likely not safe to consumer due to fire, soot, and other contaminants
• Attempt to clean walls or clothing: a professional will need to provide advice before this is done, you may cause further damage by attempting to clean before the damage has been assessed

These guidelines are not a substitute for calling a restoration company following a fire. If you are wondering what to do after a fire, the best and most important task is to hire a certified professional restoration company. Recovering from smoke and soot damage requires knowledge and expertise to return your home to a preloss condition.

If you incur damage from fire or soot call us today and we will help make it, “Like it never even happened.”

For additional tips and resources you can also visit the Red Cross website here for more information on recovering from a fire.

Turkey Tips: How to Safely Deep Fry a Turkey

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Tis the season to be grateful and we are thankful to serve the Mercer County community!

The smell of a Thanksgiving feast cooking brings joy and families together. In order to have a good meal displayed on the table and satisfied people, there must be time, preparation and of course, safety put into your feast.

For those of you who prefer sitting outside deep frying a turkey and enjoying conversation and laughter with a friend or relative, do not forget about safety when preparing your turkey.  It is important to be aware of safety tips before you begin referring to your favorite recipe and deep frying your turkey.

Here are just a few tips to consider before your feast begins:

• Turkey Tip #1- Always wear protective gear. It is important to wear eye protection and wear good mitts. Sometimes the oil splatters!
• Turkey Tip #2- Have a fire extinguisher on hand within arm’s reach.
• Turkey Tip #3- Deep fry your turkey in an open area away from children and pets and never leave your fryer unattended.
• Turkey Tip #4- Place your fryer on a leveled, flat surface. Once it starts heating, it cannot be moved around.
• Turkey Tip #5- Make sure you defrost your turkey completely and dry it in hot oil.
• Turkey Tip #6- Remember, oil and water, whether liquid or frozen, DO NOT MIX! 
• Turkey Tip #7- Although deep frying a turkey may be high on your priority list, plans may be canceled if it rains or snows.
• Turkey Tip #8- Do not overfill the fryer. 
• Turkey Tip #9- Turn the gas off before placing the turkey in the fryer.
• Turkey Tip #10-Enjoy your feast!

Call SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties at (724) 704-8939. This is the season to be grateful and we are thankful to serve the Mercer County community!

We are always here to help!

Fire Safety Prevention Week

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

Incurring a fire is never the plan but having a plan can avoid one.

October 6 through 12 is Fire Prevention Week and as a leader in fire restoration, SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties is here to help you prevent a fire in your home or business. Read the tips below to learn how you can be ready for whatever happens.

Fire Prevention Tips

1. Have a Fire Evacuation Plan – sometimes the difference between escaping safely and enduring a tragedy is having a plan a place. Your evacuation plan should be known to everyone in your family or business and practiced twice a year.
2. Inspect electrical cords – faulty or frayed wires can start a fire. Be sure to check your connections and cables regularly for cracking or damage and replace old wires immediately.
3. Install and test smoke alarms – every level of your office or home should have an active smoke detector. Be sure to test your alarms regularly

Additional tips and fire safety resources can be found on the National Fire Association’s website here.

Incurring a fire is never the plan but having a plan can avoid one. If your home or business suffers fire damage from the result of any size incident, call our team of professionals and we will help make it, “Like it never even happened.”

October Fire Safety Tips for New Castle, PA

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Fires can occur in your home or work place- be prepared with these tips!

October is Fire Safety Month!

Join SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties and the National Fire Protection Association to stay informed about fire safety!

Fires can be a fact of nature, but they can also happen in your home or business. Check out these SERVPRO tips to reduce the risk of fire:

Watch your cooking - Stay in the kitchen if you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. Never allow young children around the stove or oven, especially if they are not closely attended.

Give space heaters space - Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn.

Smoke outside - If you must smoke inside, have a sturdy, deep ashtray. Never smoke in bed.

Keep matches and lighters out of reach - Keep matches and lighters in high cabinets, preferably under a child lock.

Inspect electrical cords - Replace cords that are cracked, damaged, have broken plugs or have loose connections

Be careful when using candles - Keep candles at least one foot from anything that can burn. Blow them out before you leave the room or go to sleep.

Have a fire escape plan - Make a fire escape plan and practice it twice a year.

Install smoke alarms - Install alarms on every level of your office or home and inside bedrooms. Interconnect them so they all sound at once.

Test smoke alarms - Test alarms once per month. Replace batteries once per year or as needed.

Install sprinklers       - Sprinklers can help maintain and sometimes even extinguish fires, giving your local fire department a better chance of saving your property.

Smoke and soot cleanup

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot can leave a pervasive odor in your 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 Mercer and Lawrence Counties specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event.  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 – (724) 704-8939 or view more information here

What Not to do About Soot in New Castle, PA

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

If soot and ash are present from fire damage, you should never try to clean them using water.

Did you know...

In the event of a fire emergency in your home or work place, ash and soot can cause a huge mess. Soot is a black, dusty, grimy substance that can coat all of your belongings and property. 

What is the first way most of us think to clean a dirty mess? Soap and water should clean it up, right?

WRONG. 

If soot and ash are present from fire damage, you should never try to clean them using water. 

Whether soot is dry or oily, you will quickly find that trying to clean it using water and soap will only make the damage much worse. The soot will combine with the water to make a dark, mucky substance that will continue to smear rather than detach from your belongings. 

When a space is covered in ash and soot, it may be tempting to try wiping some of it off by yourself before restoration professionals are present or able to respond. As tempting as this is, the best hope of ensuring restoration of your belongings and property is to wait for trained technicians to survey the space and determine the best course of action. 

How does SERVPRO of Mercer County and Lawrence Counties handle soot damage?

Our trained professionals at SERVPRO have a variety of methods that can be used to properly remove soot from everything from walls and ceilings to personal soft contents (i.e. furniture, stuffed animals, etc.). 

Click here for information on our ESPORTA® Wash System, a revolutionary way to restore your soft contents and personal items.

Supporting New Castle Fire Departments

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

To say thank you, we will even drop off cases of water bottles for each fire department that we visit!

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties would like to thank the firefighters and first responders in the surrounding areas for their incredible service to the community. As a fire damage restoration company, the jobs of the local fire departments are integral to our day-to-day actions, as the volunteers and staff members fight dangerous fires and recover property that SERVPRO can restore.

More importantly, however, our local firefighters work daily to keep us and the members of our community safe and protected from fire emergencies. Recently, SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties was privileged to be a part of Home Depot's Fire Safety Event (check it out here in our photo gallery), and we were impressed by the amount of local firefighters who took part in the event to raise awareness of fire prevention and safety for families and children.

We at SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties encourage everyone to thank their local fire departments for all that they do!

Building community one uniform at a time

In appreciation of our local fire departments, SERVPRO of Mercer County is offering to donate our equipment cleaning services for fire department use. With our new ESPORTA® Wash System, we are qualified to clean turnout gear and personal protective equipment of all kinds. We can eliminate over 90% of the contaminants caused by dirt, soot, and smoke, and allow equipment to be cleaner and last longer. 

And we will do this absolutely free for our local fire departments, whether staffed or volunteer.

Simply call SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties at (724) 704-8939 to set up a time for SERVPRO representatives to come and pick up your equipment, and we will quickly return it to you.

What Can You Do About Smoke Odor in New Castle, PA?

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Insulation can make the smoke odor worse because the material locks in the smell and causes the smokiness to linger.

How to remove smoke odor after a fire

If you've ever sat around a campfire and forgotten to wash the sweatshirt you were wearing, you know that the smell of smoke can linger. And it's strong.

On an even larger scale, you'll find that that is especially true following a fire emergency in your home or commercial property. 

Smoke rises, which means that the odor rises with it and can stick around in your home or attic long after you have put out the fire. 

SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties can fix this for you. How, you ask?

Take this attic, for example. This home, located in Mercer County, suffered a fire that left it smelling heavily of smoke. The attic had a large amount of insulation, as is the case with most attics or upper rooms of a property. Insulation can make the smoke odor worse because the material locks in the smell and causes the smokiness to linger. this is also the case with any other odor besides smoke. So, the first thing technicians will do in this case is remove the odorous insulation from the space. They will then clean the space with SERVPRO'S Green chemicals and special cleaning technologies, which will remove approximately 95% of the contaminants from the fire. Finally, a step that is shown in this image is the coating that is sprayed over all of the wooden beams in the attic. These structures can also hold odors, so the coating is a type of sealant that will lock any remaining contaminants underneath so that they will not continue to spread and fill the attic or cause odors. 

What's cooking? Kitchen Fire Tips in New Castle, PA

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

The holiday season is approaching, which means that many of us will be spending a lot more time in the kitchen.

Did you know...

A majority of fires that take place in homes begin in the kitchen.

The holiday season is approaching, which means that many of us will be spending a lot more time in the kitchen. This also means that, with every pumpkin pie and each batch of Christmas cookies you make, there is a greater risk of a fire emergency. 

Aside from calling 9-1-1, which should be one of your first moves, here are some quick tips for dealing with a fire emergency in your kitchen.

1. Always watch your cooking; don't leave anything unattended
2. Set a timer so that you don't accidentally burn something or forget that an appliance is being used
3. If something on the stove catches on fire and it is small, cover it with a lid and turn off the burner
4. Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen near your cooking area where it is easily accessible
5. Add baking soda to a grease fire, not water
6. Clean your appliances regularly so that grease does not accumulate and start a fire
7. Clean and dust around and behind appliances, as dust accumulation can cause fires if it is close to electrical wiring
8. Keep flammable objects away from cooking appliances, especially those things like tea towels and potholders 
9. Install a smoke alarm in your kitchen
10. Test your smoke alarms and make sure they will work when you most need them!

Keep these quick tips in mind, and prevent a major fire damage emergency from taking place in your home this season!

Content Restoration: we can clean that!

4/18/2018 (Permalink)

Whatever the situation is, SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties offers the best chance of restoring your damaged belongings.

Have you or someone you know experienced a fire loss? Whether big or small, your probably know that one of the major results of this type of loss is that all of your belongings, from clothes to furniture pieces, are damaged by smoke and soot.

Perhaps a layer of soot is covering all of your most precious belongings. Or, maybe there is a heavy smoke odor that is lingering even after the fire has been put out. Perhaps both of these factors are in play. 

Whatever the situation is, SERVPRO of Mercer and Lawrence Counties offers the best chance of restoring your damaged belongings instead of throwing them away. 

We know that your property and the contents of your home are important to you; many things likely hold memories or fondness because they are yours and have been part of your home for many years. 

We want to make sure they stay that way. 

What types of content can we restore?

To be honest, almost anything.

It does not matter if you have soft contents like your favorite jacket or set of curtains, or if you have large furniture pieces or electronics.

For soft contents and textiles, we employ our Esporta Wash System, which is an advanced piece of technology with multiple combinations of settings that will be unique to each different type of content. 

For larger pieces like furniture or antiques, we have a variety of safe cleaning and disinfecting products that our technicians will use to rid your belongings of any soot and grime that is present. 

If it is simply the odor that you are wishing to alleviate, we have an ozone room at our office that is designed to neutralize odors and remove any unpleasant smells. 

The best part? If we are unable to completely restore an item, you will not be charged for that item on your final bill. 

Do you have content you'd rather restore than replace? Call us and we'll do our best to take care of it for you.

What's cooking? Kitchen Fire Tips

10/31/2017 (Permalink)

A majority of fires that take place in homes begin in the kitchen.

Did you know...

A majority of fires that take place in homes begin in the kitchen.

The holiday season is approaching, which means that many of us will be spending a lot more time in the kitchen. This also means that, with every pumpkin pie and each batch of Christmas cookies you make, there is a greater risk of a fire emergency. 

Aside from calling 9-1-1, which should be one of your first moves, here are some quick tips for dealing with a fire emergency in your kitchen.

1. Always watch your cooking; don't leave anything unattended
2. Set a timer so that you don't accidentally burn something or forget that an appliance is being used
3. If something on the stove catches on fire and it is small, cover it with a lid and turn off the burner
4. Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen near your cooking area where it is easily accessible
5. Add baking soda to a grease fire, not water
6. Clean your appliances regularly so that grease does not accumulate and start a fire
7. Clean and dust around and behind appliances, as dust accumulation can cause fires if it is close to electrical wiring
8. Keep flammable objects away from cooking appliances, especially those things like tea towels and potholders 
9. Install a smoke alarm in your kitchen
10. Test your smoke alarms and make sure they will work when you most need them!

Keep these quick tips in mind, and prevent a major fire damage emergency from taking place in your home this season!

What can we do about that smoke odor?

10/31/2017 (Permalink)

This image shows a post-fire attic from which SERVPRO of Mercer County removed contaminants and odors from smoke and soot

How to remove smoke odor after a fire

If you've ever sat around a campfire and forgotten to wash the sweatshirt you were wearing, you know that the smell of smoke can linger. And it's strong.

On an even larger scale, you'll find that that is especially true following a fire emergency in your home or commercial property. 

Smoke rises, which means that the odor rises with it and can stick around in your home or attic long after you have put out the fire. 

SERVPRO of Mercer County can fix this for you. How, you ask?

Take this attic, for example. This home, located in Mercer County, suffered a fire that left it smelling heavily of smoke. The attic had a large amount of insulation, as is the case with most attics or upper rooms of a property. Insulation can make the smoke odor worse because the material locks in the smell and causes the smokiness to linger. this is also the case with any other odor besides smoke. So, the first thing technicians will do in this case is remove the odorous insulation from the space. They will then clean the space with SERVPRO'S Green chemicals and special cleaning technologies, which will remove approximately 95% of the contaminants from the fire. Finally, a step that is shown in this image is the coating that is sprayed over all of the wooden beams in the attic. These structures can also hold odors, so the coating is a type of sealant that will lock any remaining contaminants underneath so that they will not continue to spread and fill the attic or cause odors. 

Supporting our local fire departments

10/10/2017 (Permalink)

To say thank you, we will even drop off cases of water bottles for each fire department that we visit!

SERVPRO of Mercer County would like to thank the firefighters and first responders in the surrounding areas for their incredible service to the community. As a fire damage restoration company, the jobs of the local fire departments are integral to our day-to-day actions, as the volunteers and staff members fight dangerous fires and recover property that SERVPRO can restore.

More importantly, however, our local firefighters work daily to keep us and the members of our community safe and protected from fire emergencies. Recently, SERVPRO of Mercer County was privileged to be a part of Home Depot's Fire Safety Event (check it out here in our photo gallery), and we were impressed by the amount of local firefighters who took part in the event to raise awareness of fire prevention and safety for families and children.

We at SERVPRO of Mercer County encourage everyone to thank their local fire departments for all that they do!

Building community one uniform at a time

In appreciation of our local fire departments, SERVPRO of Mercer County is offering to donate our equipment cleaning services for fire department use. With our new ESPORTA® Wash System, we are qualified to clean turnout gear and personal protective equipment of all kinds. We can eliminate over 90% of the contaminants caused by dirt, soot, and smoke, and allow equipment to be cleaner and last longer. 

And we will do this absolutely free for our local fire departments, whether staffed or volunteer.

Simply call SERVPRO of Mercer County at 724-704-8939 to set up a time for SERVPRO representatives to come and pick up your equipment, and we will quickly return it to you.

What NOT to do about soot

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

Begin soot cleanup with a dry sponge instead of a wet cloth

Did you know...

In the event of a fire emergency in your home or work place, ash and soot can cause a huge mess. Soot is a black, dusty, grimy substance that can coat all of your belongings and property. 

What is the first way most of us think to clean a dirty mess? Soap and water should clean it up, right?

WRONG. 

If soot and ash are present from fire damage, you should never try to clean them using water. 

Whether soot is dry or oily, you will quickly find that trying to clean it using water and soap will only make the damage much worse. The soot will combine with the water to make a dark, mucky substance that will continue to smear rather than detach from your belongings. 

When a space is covered in ash and soot, it may be tempting to try wiping some of it off by yourself before restoration professionals are present or able to respond. As tempting as this is, the best hope of ensuring restoration of your belongings and property is to wait for trained technicians to survey the space and determine the best course of action. 

How does SERVPRO of Mercer County handle soot damage?

Our trained professionals at SERVPRO have a variety of methods that can be used to properly remove soot from everything from walls and ceilings to personal soft contents (i.e. furniture, stuffed animals, etc.). 

SERVPRO of Mercer County will perform necessary pretesting and employ professional cleaning products and equipment to take care of the soot damage in your property. 

Click here for information on our ESPORTA® Wash System, a revolutionary way to restore your soft contents and personal items.

Smoke and soot cleanup

10/4/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot can leave a pervasive odor in your 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 Mercer County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

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 – 724-704-8939 or view more information here

October Fire Safety Tips!

10/4/2017 (Permalink)

Fires can occur in your home or work place- be prepared with these tips!

October is Fire Safety Month!

Join SERVPRO of Mercer County and the National Fire Protection Association to stay informed about fire safety!

Fires can be a fact of nature, but they can also happen in your home or business. Check out these SERVPRO tips to reduce the risk of fire:

Watch your cooking- Stay in the kitchen if you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. Never allow young children around the stove or oven, especially if they are not closely attended.

Give space heaters space- Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn.

Smoke outside- If you must smoke inside, have a sturdy, deep ashtray. Never smoke in bed.

Keep matches and lighters out of reach- Keep matches and lighters in high cabinets, preferably under a child lock.

Inspect electrical cords- Replace cords that are cracked, damaged, have broken plugs or have loose connections

Be careful when using candles- Keep candles at least one foot from anything that can burn. Blow them out before you leave the room or go to sleep.

Have a fire escape plan- Make a fire escape plan and practice it twice a year.

Install smoke alarms- Install alarms on every level of your office or home and inside bedrooms. Interconnect them so they all sound at once.

Test smoke alarms- Test alarms once per month. Replace batteries once per year or as needed.

Install sprinklers- Sprinklers can help maintain and sometimes even extinguish fires, giving your local fire department a better chance of saving your property.