Restoring Fire Damage to Your Property

8/9/2024 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be devastating, leaving behind not only physical destruction but also emotional distress. Whether it’s a small kitchen fire or a larger blaze, the aftermath requires immediate attention to prevent further damage and begin the restoration process. At SERVPRO of Victoria, we specialize in fire damage restoration, helping you rebuild and recover as quickly as possible.

Our experienced team begins with a thorough assessment of the damage, identifying areas affected by fire, smoke, and soot. We then create a tailored plan to clean, repair, and restore your property to its pre-fire condition. This includes removing smoke odors, cleaning soot from surfaces, and repairing damaged structures.

SERVPRO of Victoria is committed to guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring clear communication and expert care. Trust us to handle your fire damage restoration needs, so you can focus on moving forward.

Contact (361) 433-5357

Driers can Cause A Fire!

9/28/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Victoria is always here to help you no matter how big or small the damage is!

Using the dryer to dry clothes is a very common routine.  Although it is an efficient appliance, it is responsible for a potential fire hazard.  To minimize the risk of a dryer or lint fire, protect your home by taking care of your dryer and doing routine maintenance.

Use these tips to prevent dryer fires from occurring in your home:

• Do not use the dryer without a lint filter
• Clean out lint filters before every load
• Keep the area around your dryer clear of things that can burn, like boxes, cleaning supplies, and clothing
• Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted
• Do not overload the dryer

Do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Victoria after dealing with a fire at (361) 573-6000.  Our company has trained technicians with years of experience and certifications to get the job done.   Our team is dedicated to helping you when disaster strikes making it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Pit Safety Tips

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Many of us are looking forward to spending time gathering around them to enjoy time with family and friends before the summer heat truly kicks in.

Some of us may be uncovering our fire pits and looking forward to spending time with family and friends gathering around them. Practicing fire safety is important.  Below are a few tips for fire pit safety:

The fire pit should be a minimum of 10 feet away from any structures or combustible materials as well as away from trees, fences, sheds, power lines, and telephone wires.

Burn only dry material; damp material will create excess smoke. 

Do not use lighter fluid or gasoline to start the fire, as it can burn out of control or even result in explosions. Do not burn tires, aerosols, or anything containing paint or foam to avoid toxic fumes which could also explode and cause injury.

Wear non-flammable clothing while starting, sitting near, or extinguishing the fire. 

Do not leave the fire unattended, and keep pets and children far away from the fire as they will be attracted to it.

Keep the proper fire extinguishing equipment, or at least a water hose, handy in case of an emergency.

Be safe and use good judgment while using a fire pit.  SERVPRO of Victoria cares deeply for our community and is available 24/7 if an emergency should occur.  We are here to help. Give our team of trained professionals a call, we are dedicated to helping you when disaster strikes!

Keep Your Victoria, Texas Home Safe From Fire

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

Our team at SERVPRO of Victoria is always here for you no matter how big or small the damage is!

To better prevent fires in your Victoria, Texas home, it is important to know what causes them to take the proper measures to avoid house fires. Get to know common household practices that can cause and propagate fires. Accidental house fires can be a serious safety threat and concern to homeowners.  By knowing and understanding what these hazards are, you can take proper steps to address and mitigate those risks and prevent possible fire damage and smoke damage to your home.

Following are the most common ways that home fires ignite and provided a list of simple steps homeowners can take to prevent them.

• Cooking

A lot of house fires happen as a result of using unattended stoves, the use of cooking oils, fryers, and improper use of microwaves. Keep flames away from loose clothing, paper, and other fabrics.  Do not leave a stove unattended. Make sure that stovetops and ovens are turned completely turned off.

• Dryers

Lint can cause a dryer fire. Keep your dryer clean and well-maintained to avoid sparks that could evolve into a fire.  Ideally, it is important to clean out the lint filter after each load to minimize risks.

• Candles

Candles are also among the most common sources of home fires. Because candles have an open flame it adds an element of danger.   By placing a candle one foot away from anything that can burn or keeping loose items away from the open flame.  Last, be sure the candle is completely blown out before going to bed or leaving a room to prevent any house fires.

• Fireplaces

If you have a fireplace at your home, it is important to get it checked out yearly to ensure it is in proper working order.  The area around your fireplace should be clear of anything that is potentially flammable.

Do not go to sleep with your fireplace on and utilize a screen to prevent sparks from flying off the fire.

• Electrical

Many homes have wires with insulation that has been worn off, rubbed off, or bitten off (rodents) which can lead to electrical fires.  Cords that become frayed or wiring issues can send sparks to flammable surfaces and start a fire which can result in a lot of damage to your property.  

If fire damage happens to your property, our team can meet your needs here in Victoria. Our company has trained professionals and our company is a fire restoration company that will help fix your smoke damaged homes and help salvage your property! Our team has the tools and equipment to r your smoke and fire damage needs at SERVPRO of Victoria. 

Kitchen Fire Safety

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

When kitchen fire comes to mind, it’s common to think that it was caused by a cooking accident.   But not all kitchen fires are caused by cooking-related forms.  Other related kitchen fires may be caused by appliances, such as toasters, refrigerators, dishwashers.  Following some of the tips below, can help prevent any future kitchen fires in your home:

• Plug all kitchen appliances, such as air fryers, toasters, microwaves, etc. into a wall outlet. 
• Unplug small appliances when they are not being used.
• Be aware of the appliance cords.  If the cords are pinched they can be damaged.
• Keep the stove and oven clean. Food build up or grease can potentially ignite when the stove or oven is turned on for cooking.
• Check and clean stove hoods and filters regularly. If your stove hood vents externally, make sure insects or birds do not build nests or otherwise impede airflow through it.
• Never use a gas or propane oven to heat your home. This is a fire hazard and it can also give off toxic gases.

Those are just a few tips to follow to ensure the safety of your home in Victoria.  SERVPRO of Victoria is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week for fire emergencies and if you continue to deal with smoke or odor in your home, do not hesitate to call our team of professionals.  We are always here to help when disaster strikes no matter how big or small the damage is!

Christmas Tree Disposal

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Victoria is always here to help our community!

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) states that nearly 30% of U.S. home fires begin with Christmas trees occurring in January.  Christmas tree fires have been responsible for property damage.  A live Christmas tree is a high risk of fire especially post-holiday season.  The tree continues to dry out over time leaving it to become more flammable causing serious fire risk to your property. It is important to take the time to recycle your tree.  Here are some notable tips to help take down the tree to prevent any property damage:

• Don’t leave the tree in your home longer than necessary.
• Grip the area on the plug when unplugging electrical decoration.  Pulling the cord can harm the wires causing a risk of shock or electrical fire.
• Check with your local community when trees are being picked up and recycled.

Your safety is important to us here at SERVPRO of Victoria.  If you experience any type of fire damage do not hesitate to call our team (361) 573-6000.  Our team is here to help you when disaster strikes. 

Source: National Fire Protection Association

Turkey for Thanksgiving?

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

As 2021 is winding down, Thanksgiving is just only a few weeks away.   Traditionally, a common plate found on the table for Thanksgiving is turkey.  As the turkey is being prepared for the big occasion, there can be some dangers with preparing this meal. Cooking is the leading cause of house fires according to Ready.gov.  Be extra careful with turkey fryers. There are a few house fires that take place on Thanksgiving due to the fact that some safety precautions were not being considered.  SERVPRO of Victoria has provided some helpful tips to use while preparing a turkey to prevent any mishaps from happening.  Below are a few key messages to follow to help ensure the safety of your home:  

• Only use turkey fryers outdoors; away from home or building and any flammable materials.
• Keep children and pets a safe distance away from the fryer when in use and for several hours after cooking. 
• Do not leave the fryer unattended; temperature should also be monitored closely. 
• If any smoke, at all, comes from the heating pot of oil, turn the burner off immediately as oil may be overheating. 
• Cover any skin that is exposed; it is encouraged to use a pair of gloves that is designed for high heat. 
• Follow the manufacture's recommendation for the amount of oil to add.  Do not over fill the fryer.
• Be prepared - consider purchasing a fire extinguisher for safety precautions. 

Fire damage can be devastating especially around the holidays.  SERVPRO of Victoria understands the stress that comes with it.  Our team is dedicated to helping you.  If you face any fire damages, give our team a call (361) 573-6000 and we’ll be there to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Different Types of Fire

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Victoria is dedicated to helping you during a stressful time.

When SERVPRO of Victoria arrives on the scene following a fire, our team follows a process.  First, our goal is to calm the customer’s fears.  The next step is to pre-test the smoke to determine what type of fire has taken place. 

Are you aware of the different types of smoke?

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber (low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary)

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood (fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises, therefore, the smoke rises)

Protein Smoke – 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

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

Smoke and soot residue can damage carpet, upholstery, and contents if not removed quickly and efficiently.  In a fire-damaged structure with soot on the walls and other surfaces, cleaning and restoration are less disruptive and more cost-efficient than replacement.  Replacement may also mean a longer disruption time than restoration. 

Our team understands how disruptive a small fire can be.  SERVPRO of Victoria is dedicated to helping you during a stressful time.  If you or anyone you know experience fire damage give our team a call.

Electrical Fire

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Victoria is always here to help!

Have you checked around your home lately for any faulty wires, electrical cords, or power strips? If not, now is a great time to do it.  Many homes have wires with insulation that has been worn off, rubbed off, or bitten off (rodents) that can lead to electrical fires. Many of these wiring issues can potentially cause a fire in your home which can result in a lot of damage to your property. 

If you have a small fire outbreak due to these types of wiring issues, give SERVPRO of Victoria a call.  Our company has trained professionals and our company is a fire restoration company that will help fix your smoke damaged home and help salvage your property! Our team has the tools and equipment to remove soot from walls and filter out lingering smoke odors.  Don’t hesitate to give our team a call today for your smoke and fire needs.

Smoke Odor

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Victoria is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week for fire emergencies!

Smoke odor is a stubborn odor that will linger long after a fire has been put out. The odor can be caused by an accident that occurred in the kitchen, a random electrical fire, or even a candle that was unattended.

No matter what caused the odor, SERVPRO of Victoria has the trained professionals with the equipment and knowledge to clean up the structure of your home or business and remove any odor. We use a variety of products and equipment specifically to deal with odor, from Eco-friendly products to heavy soot and odor removal chemicals.  Our team will walk through with you and figure out the best solution and approach to get your home or business back "Like it never even happened."

Here at SERVPRO of Victoria, we are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage and can help reduce the cost.  No matter how big or small the damage is, SERVPRO of Victoria is dedicated to helping you!

Different Types of Smoke

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Victoria, we are available 24 hours and 7 days a week!

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 Victoria 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. 

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored to 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.

SERVPRO of Victoria Here to Help When Fire Damage Occurs

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

No matter how big or small the damage is, SERVPRO of Victoria is always here to help!

When you try to clean up after a fire by yourself, it can be a disaster. Especially considering that smoke and soot from even a small fire can permanently damage contents throughout a home. It will also cause odors that may resurface for years.

The professionals at SERVPRO of Victoria understand how disruptive fires can be for you and your entire family. For this reason, SERVPRO of Victoria offers 24-hour emergency response and will have trained technicians on-site of fire damage within four hours to begin emergency mitigation services. By responding quickly with a full line of fire, smoke, and soot clean up and restoration services, we at SERVPRO of Victoria can help you regain control quickly while deodorizing and protecting your home and belongings. 

So, before you risk doing more damage by attempting to clean it up yourself, call your local fire, smoke, and soot clean up and restoration experts at SERVPRO of Victoria no matter how big or small the fire is, our team is always here to help when disaster strikes!

How to Get Rid of Odors After a Fire

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Victoria is always here to help when disaster strikes!

While some fires are a total loss not all of them are.  Fires can cause damage to the content of your home and potentially leave behind an odor.  The first thing your fire restoration company will do is to clean up all the damage and get your property looking as normal as possible.

The first steps to start with are:

• Removing and disposing of belonging that are too badly damaged and cannot be repaired
• If the carpet and flooring were damaged from the water that was used to put out the fire, and have tried to clean the carpet or dried the flooring, but the smell is still there, the best thing would remove the carpet or flooring
• Painting your walls with primer and odor resistance paint will help with removing the smoke odor

Cleaning up after a fire can be hard. SERVPRO of Victoria can help you with restoring the damages and help get rid of the odor left behind by the fire.  If the unexpected happens, know that you can count on SERVPRO of Victoria to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

National Burn Awareness Week 2020

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

Stay informed and learn more about National Burn Awareness Week!

SERVPRO of Victoria is here to inform you that the first week of February (2-8^th, 2020) is recognized as National Burn Awareness Week.  The 2020 theme is contact burns – Hot Surfaces Damage Skin!

In the United States, approximately 400,000 people receive medical care for the treatment of burn type injuries every year.  The majority of these injuries are preventable and the American Burn Association is striving to bring awareness to the causes.  These injuries occur at homes and workplaces.  By bringing awareness to the cause of a potentially devastating and costly injury, this encourages everyone to make a simple change that can lead to life-saving situations. 

For more information about National Burn Awareness Week check out: http://ameriburn.org/prevention/burn-awareness-week/.   SERVPRO of Victoria cares about our community and our staff is dedicated to help our community and bring awareness about the subject matter!

Fire Damage Pack Out

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Victoria understand the stress that comes along with fire damage. Our goal is to minimize the interruption to your life!

After a fire damage strikes, you may be dealing with some challenges.  SERVPRO of Victoria is here to help!  While the mitigation process begins, our team at SERVPRO of Victoria can pack out the contents of your home that need cleaning or could potentially be in the way of the repair process in the affected areas.  Thankfully, our staff can be trusted to pack out your contents.  The process involves detailed photographs taken of each item to ensure that all your items are documented and labeled to specific boxes.  After the items have been inventoried, they are safely brought back to our Warehouse where your items are safely stored.     Our trusted staff understands the importance of your belongings and will treat them with care.  SERVPRO of Victoria is committed to providing the best service to our customers.   

Fireplace Safety Tips

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

Stay warm during the holidays but be cautious!

Everyone enjoys a good fire around the fireplace when temperatures have fallen.  What’s not to enjoy feeling cozy and warm during the winter months? Fireplaces may be used to provide warmth during this time of year.  But have you considered that this could be a potential fire hazard?   Listed below are some tips about fireplace safety to use to keep you and your family safe.

• Crack open a window while the fire is burning.
• Be sure the damper or flue is open before lighting or starting a fire, and until embers have completely stopped burning, to draw smoke out of the house.
• Check the damper by looking up into the chimney with a flashlight or mirror.
• Use smaller pieces of dry and well-aged wood for home fire safety, avoiding wet or green wood, which causes more smoke and soot buildup in the chimney.
• Have a professional check the chimney annually.
• When cleaning a fireplace, remove ashes from previous fires, keeping levels of the to 1 inch or less for less smoke
• Check for animal nests or other blockages that could prevent smoke from escaping.
• Make sure the area around the fireplace is clear of anything that is potentially flammable.
• Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended and be sure it’s completely out before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Home fireplace safety should include keeping a fire extinguisher on hand.

Fire damage can be devastating and SERVPRO of Victoria understands the stress that comes with it.  SERVPRO of Victoria is dedicated to helping you.  If you face any winter storm damages, give our team a call (361) 573-6000 and we’ll be there to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Holiday Light Safety

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

Wishing everyone a happy and safe holiday season!

It’s an exciting time of year as the holiday season is here.  Many families use decorative lights to hang throughout their homes inside and out to add a bit of extra joy!  With all the festivities going on, it is important to remember that holiday decorations can increase your risk for a home fire

You don’t want any type of fire damage to affect your home during this festive time of year. To avoid any hazards from happening here are a few precautions about holiday lights that can help keep your holidays jolly!

It’s important to keep Christmas trees at least three feet away from any heat source (fireplace, space heaters, candles, etc).  As lights go on the tree, be sure to be careful opening a new package.  Take the time to inspect each strand in case of any fray or lose wires and broken sockets.  If you come across these things, consider to return them to the store or throwing them away. 

Do not put more lights around the tree then recommended.  If the tree or outlet is overloaded by lights, it can potentially cause a fire.  Unplug lights or use a timer to help turn them off when no one is home.

If you want to hang lights outside, don’t use nails or staples as they can damage the wiring. Invest in quality hooks or hangers. Once the holidays are over, take down all outside lights. Small animals, like squirrels, may start chewing on the wires if you leave them up all year.

SERVPRO of Victoria is here to help when disaster strikes.  We want to help our community stay safe around the holiday season!

Smoke and Soot Clean Up - Victoria, TX

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Victoria is here to help when fire causes damage to your home.

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

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 Victoria 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.  SERVPRO of Victoria has the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  Our crew will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Smoke and Soot Clean Up

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

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

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 Victoria 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.  SERVPRO of Victoria has the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  Our crew 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 – (361) 573-6000

Fireplace Safety Tips

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

Fireplaces may be more than just the focal point of a person’s home, especially during the winter seasons.  It may be used to provide warmth during this time of year.  However, fireplaces can be potentially dangerous.  Home fire safety is essential, below are a few tips to help keep your home and family safe:  

• Crack open a window while the fire is burning.
• Be sure the damper or flue is open before lighting or starting a fire, and until embers have completely stopped burning, to draw smoke out of the house.
• Check the damper by looking up into the chimney with a flashlight or mirror.
• Use smaller pieces of dry and well-aged wood for home fire safety, avoiding wet or green wood, which causes more smoke and soot buildup in the chimney.
• Have a professional check the chimney annually.
• When cleaning a fireplace, remove ashes from previous fires, keeping levels of the to 1 inch or less for less smoke
• Check for animal nests or other blockages that could prevent smoke from escaping.
• Make sure the area around the fireplace is clear of anything that is potentially flammable.
• Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended and be sure it’s completely out before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Home fireplace safety should include keeping a fire extinguisher on hand.

Fire damage can be devastating and SERVPRO of Victoria understands the stress that comes with it.  SERVPRO of Victoria is dedicated to helping you.  If you face any winter storm damages, give our team a call (361) 573-6000 and we’ll be there to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Candle Safety Tips

1/8/2019 (Permalink)

There is something calming about candles especially during the holiday season.  They look pretty and enhance the ambiance in a room, they give off a fragrant smell that can be so luring, but they can also be the cause to a house fire.   December has been noted as the peak month of candle fires.  According to the National Fire Protection Association, 3 out of every 5 candle fires started when they were placed to something that can burn, such as furniture, bedding, or decorations.  Review the tips below to prevent any house fires this holiday season:

• Blow out candles before leaving a room or going to bed
• Keep candles one foot (30 centimeters) away from anything that can burn
• Use a sturdy candle holder, that will not tip over easily
• Put candle holders and a sturdy and unclutter surface
• Light candles carefully, keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame
• Do not let the candle burn all the way to the bottom; put it out before it gets too close to the container or holder
• You should not light a candle if oxygen is used in the home
• During a power outage, use a flashlight or battery-operated lighting instead of a candle

Although candles can add to the décor in the room, however, they can also add danger.  Remember candles are an open flame which means they can easily ignite.  Create an environment that is safe for you during this holiday season, use alternatives to prevent any candle fires in homes like using flameless candles.  As always, remember SERVPRO of Victoria is here to help!

Kitchen Fire Safety in Victoria

12/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Victoria is beginning to look forward to the holiday season, as many people begin to celebrate with friends and family.  During this time, most people may find themselves in the kitchen building gingerbread houses, baking cookies, and many extra holiday festivities.  However, the kitchen is the source of many fire hazards because it's where heat, electricity, water, and grease are all come together.  The most common type of fire is the grease fire.  A grease fire is extremely dangerous as it can get out of control quickly and spread from the stove throughout the kitchen and into other rooms of the house.

Common Causes of Kitchen Fires

• Too high temperature in the fryer
• Vegetable, more flammable, oils
• Old, more flammable oil, in the deep fryer
• Fat deposits in the flue and ventilation ducts
• Misalignment sprinklers due to equipment moved around
• Clogged melting links of the sprinklers leading to impaired function

Other types of kitchen fires include oven fire or the microwave.  When a fire starts, keep the door closed and turn off the oven.   The lack of oxygen will suffocate the flames. If it continues to smoke like a fire use a fire extinguisher or call the fire department.

At SERVPRO of Victoria, we are available 24 hours and 7 days a week.  Give us a call at (361) 573-6000.  

Fire Extinguisher and Classes of Fires

12/4/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know that if you encounter a fire with the wrong type of fire extinguisher you could make the fire worse? For example, use an extinguisher that contains only water on a flammable liquid fire and you’ll spread the fire and put yourself in further danger.  However, the fires are divided into five classes and fire extinguishers are specifically made to take out one or more of the fire classes. Below is a list of fire classes and the extinguishers that put them out.  Each fire extinguisher has labels designated for the type of fire to use the extinguisher on.  Double check the extinguisher you’re about to use to make sure it’s designed to fight the type of fire. If you are unclear how to deal with the fire it is best to be safe and evacuate.  

Class of Fire: A (A in a green triangle)
Fires of ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, cardboard, most plastics, and cloth
Extinguishers to Use: Water, Foam Spray, ABC Powder, or Wet Chemical

Class of Fire: B (B in a red square)    
Fires of flammable liquids like petroleum, kerosene, grease, and others (but not alcohol or cooking oil)
Extinguishers to Use: Foam Spray, ABC Powder, or Carbon Dioxide

Class of Fire: C (C in a blue circle)    
Fires of energized electrical equipment such as appliances, wiring, circuit breakers and outlets
Extinguisher to Use: ABC Powder

Class of Fire: D (D in a yellow star)    
Fires of combustible metals like magnesium, titanium, sodium (often found in chemical laboratories).
Extinguishers to Use: ABC Powder or Carbon Dioxide

Class of Fire: K (K in a black hexagon)    
Fires of cooking oils, trans fats (often used in restaurants).
Extinguisher to Use: Wet Chemical

Cooking Safety

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving is only a few days away and most of America is beginning to prepare for one of the most important meals of the year!  Typically, one of the most common dishes found on a Thanksgiving table is a turkey. But did you know that there can be some dangers with preparing a turkey at your own home? Cooking is the leading cause of house fires according to Ready.gov.  Be extra careful with turkey fryers. There are a few house fires that take place on Thanksgiving since some safety per cations were not being considered.  SERVPRO of Victoria has provided you with some helpful tips to use while preparing a turkey to prevent any mishaps from happening.  Below are a few key messages to follow to help ensure the safety of your home:  

• Only use turkey fryers outdoors; away from home or building and any flammable materials.

• Keep children and pets a safe distance away from the fryer when in use and for several hours after cooking. 
  
• Do not leave the fryer unattended; temperature should also be monitored closely. 

• If any smoke, at all, comes from the heating pot of oil, turn the burner off immediately as oil may be overheating. 

• Cover any skin that is exposed; it is encouraged to use a pair of gloves that are designed for high heat. 

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for the amount of oil to add.  Do not overfill the fryer.

• Be prepared - consider purchasing a fire extinguisher for safety precautions. 

Fire Prevention Week 2018

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

This year's Fire Prevention Week (FPW) campaign, "Look. Listen.  Learn.  Be aware.  Fire can happen anywhere," works to educate people about three basic but essential steps to take to reduce the likelihood of having a fire -- and how to escape safely in the event of one.   

• LOOK for places fire could start. Take a good look around your home. Identify potential fire hazards and take care of them. 

• LISTEN for the sound of the smoke alarm. You could only have minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Go to your outside meeting place, which should be a safe distance from the home and where everyone should know to meet. 
• LEARN two ways out of every room and make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily and are free of clutter.

Space Heater Safety

1/8/2018 (Permalink)

Cold temperatures call for some residents to seek out other heat sources in an effort to keep living spaces comfortable.  The most common supplemental heat source is a portable space heater. Space heaters are easy to use and can quickly generate heat to warm up a home up from a real cold day.  Consider the following these tips to minimize risks of a heating related fire in your home:

• Keep it three feet away from anything that can burn
• Do not use extension cords
• Turn off space heater when leaving the room or going to bed
• Don't use a space heater in a damp or wet area unless it's specifically made for that purpose
• Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and test monthly

If you or anyone you know experiences fire damage, give SERVPRO of Victoria a call.  Our highly trained technicians are certified and has years of experience.  We are always here to help!

Baking Safety in December

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving may be over but it’s the most wonderful time of year and the festivities around the kitchen are still in full gear.  As the holiday season continues, many may find themselves baking up a batch of Christmas cookies to spread some Christmas cheer!  But if not careful, kitchen fires may occur and that’s the last thing anyone wants during the happiest season of all.  So to prevent house fires to occur while cooking, follow some of these safety tips:

Stay in the kitchen while cooking or baking; fires occur because food is left unattended

Keep cooking space clear

Do not wear lose article of clothing while cooking

Make sure smoke alarms are installed, connected and working.  Smoke alarms are here to help.

Unplug appliances that are not currently being used; this not only saves energy BUT it also prevents potential fires

Keep a fire extinguisher around in case of an emergency.

Christmas Tree Safety

12/11/2017 (Permalink)

The holiday season is upon us; whoop-de-do!  During this holiday season, many of us have a beautifully decorated Christmas tree as part of the tradition to the season. It is important that the tree is carefully decorated to ensure a safer holiday season.  Over the years, fires have been responsible for property damage.  Most resulted from electrical malfunctions from Christmas trees such as faulty wiring, plugs, or even being placed too close to a candle or fire place.  To help avoid any fire damages follow these simple steps:

• Ensure trees are secured and sturdy in the tree stand to prevent them from tipping over
• Use tested and approved lighting when decorating trees or other holiday decorations
• Carefully check light strands for frayed, faulty or exposed wiring, broken bulbs or loose bulb connections
• Make sure to water live trees daily; dried out trees increases fire risk
• Ensure artificial trees are fire resistant
• Set up trees at least three feet away from heat sources (lamp, fire places, candles or radiators)
• Make sure tree is not blocking an exit

Your safety is important to us during the holiday season here at SERVPRO of Victoria.  If you experience any type of fire damage do not hesitate to call our team (361) 573-6000.  Our team is here to help you when disaster strikes.    

Thanksgiving Day Safety in Victoria, Texas

12/4/2017 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving around the corner and most of America starts to prepare for one of the most important meals of the year!  Typically, the most common dishes found on a Thanksgiving table are a turkey.  Most people prepare turkeys for the big occasion.  But did you know that there can be some dangers with preparing a turkey in your own home? Cooking is the leading cause of house fires according to Ready.gov.  Be extra careful with turkey fryers. There are a few house fires that take place on Thanksgiving due to the fact that some safety precautions were not being considered.  SERVPRO of Victoria has provided some helpful tips to use while preparing a turkey to prevent any mishaps from happening.  Below are a few key messages to follow to help ensure the safety of your home:  

• Only use turkey fryers outdoors; away from home or building and any flammable materials.

• Keep children and pets a safe distance away from the fryer when in use and for several hours after cooking. 

• Do not leave the fryer unattended; temperature should also be monitored closely. 

• If any smoke, at all, comes from the heating pot of oil, turn the burner off immediately as oil may be overheating. 

• Cover any skin that is exposed; it is encouraged to use a pair of gloves that is designed for high heat. 

• Follow the manufacture's recommendation for the amount of oil to add.  Do not over fill the fryer.

• Be prepared - consider purchasing a fire extinguisher for safety precautions. 

SERVPRO of Victoria wishes everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!

Firework Safety

7/3/2017 (Permalink)

The summer heat is setting in and July 4th is upon us.  As Independence Day approaches, people are preparing for the entertainment and celebration.  Communities fill their towns with red, white and blue decorations. Parades occupy the streets and the night skies are filled with glittery, sparkling fireworks!  While fireworks are the most iconic ways to celebrate the Fourth of July, they can cause quite a bit of damage if not used carefully.  Fireworks have been responsible  for many injuries and fires.   Enjoy the use of fireworks around the holidays by being responsible.  If you are planning to use fireworks to celebrate your holiday festivities, first, be sure to check if fireworks are legal around your area. Safety first; follow the following tips if you plan to use fireworks to celebrate:

• Use fireworks outdoor only

• Ensure local weather conditions permits the use of fireworks

• Obey local laws regarding the use of fireworks

• Read the directions and warning labels on fireworks before using them

• Be aware of your surroundings, including powerlines and trees

• Always have a bucket of water, hose and/or extinguisher nearby. 

• Never aim fireworks towards people, animals, or objects

• Alcohol and fireworks do NOT mix

 For more firework safety tips visit www.fireworkssafety.com.  SERVPRO of Victoria is wishing you a happy a safe holiday.  If disaster strikes give us a call at (361) 573-6000

Smoke and Soot Clean Up

2/7/2017 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.


• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.


• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Victoria 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.  SERVPRO of Victoria has the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  Our crew 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 – (361) 573-6000