What Are The Steps To Restore Fire Damage?

10/21/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Long Island City professionals know how to restore your home or business after fire and smoke damage.

Fire damage can happen at any time, and each type requires a different restoration method to restore your property. If your property experiences fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Long Island City, NY, and we will send our team to inspect it and restore your property to pre-fire condition. Regardless of the fire's size or the damage's extent, we're ready to assist.

#1 Call SERVPRO

A fire on your property can be devastating. The first step to fire damage restoration is to call your local SERVPRO location. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week because we understand emergencies can happen anytime. We’re dedicated to responding immediately, day or night to your Long Island City property. A faster response helps to prevent further damage and reduce the costs of damage. 

#2 Professional Fire Damage Assessment

Our professionally trained team will carefully inspect your property to determine the effect of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This is crucial to developing a plan of action. 

#3 Immediate Board-Up

Fire damage can often damage windows, walls, and roofs. To protect against further damage, our team will board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. It is critical to secure and protect your home or business from further damage. This service will protect your property from weather, animals, and illegal entry. 

#4 Water Removal & Drying

If water damage is present, it is important to begin the water removal process immediately. Our team at SERVPRO of Long Island City will use advanced equipment to detect hidden moisture and perform water extraction of any standing water.

#5 Removal of Smoke & Soot

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

#6 Cleaning & Salvaging 

We remove all affected materials and items while minimizing the salvageable and restoreable surfaces. We offer restoration of specialty items such as art, electronics, and documents. SERVPRO of Long Island City offers Document Restoration Services for when damage strikes if your photographs, certificate, financial documents, or other vital documents become compromised we can help salvage your valued items. 

#7 Repairs & Construction 

Now it is time to rebuild and bring your property back to what it was before. The repairs can be minor or rebuilding entire areas of your property. SERVPRO of Long Island City can handle construction projects whether your home needs minor repairs or a full remodel. 

Fire Damage Restoration with SERVPRO of Long Island City

SERVPRO of Long Island City is available 24/7 to assist with fire restoration. An emergency can happen at any time, and we are ready to take your call, day or night. Contact us today to restore your property from fire damage!

The Danger of Fire in Your Home | SERVPRO of Long Island City

6/16/2023 (Permalink)

Fires can quickly get out of hand. If you've experienced a house fire recently, call SERVPRO of Long Island City to restore your space.

No matter how you think about it, house fires are a scary experience. While they can remain small and end up just being minor inconveniences, they can also lead to widespread devastation and can be seriously dangerous.

In fact, over 350,000 homes experience some type of fire damage every year in the United States.

The reasons for house fires vary, but there are some more common locations and situations that can spark a fire that quickly grows out of control. Read on as we explain some of the most common places that fire breaks out in households so you can make some changes around your own home.

Soot & Smoke Damage Clean Up

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is available 24/7 to begin restoration on your property after a fire.

The 2022 heat waves have broke temperature records across the globe. Forest fires in Europe and in the US have forced many people to leave their homes and businesses behind.

Commercial and residential properties that are in danger of being destroyed by a forest fire have little chance of survival. However, properties far away from the fire can still be affected by smoke, fire, and soot. SERVPRO can help with smoke and soot damage as well as clean-up and repairs to buildings directly affected by fire.

Our team has the ability to handle and resolve any issues that may arise from soot and smoke damage, including:

• Sanitizing & cleaning of all surfaces
• Eliminating odors
• Clean HVAC/ductwork
• Cleaning textiles (clothings, rugs and curtains)
• Furniture restoration
• Electronics restoration
• Reconstruction

SERVPRO is the best choice for fire damage restoration. We offer a complete product from start to finish that will save you both time and money. We are available 24/7 to help you if your residential or commercial property is damaged. Our team is available 24 hours a day and will get to work immediately in order save and restore as much property as possible.

New York City Fire Damage Restoration & Repair

6/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Long Island City is available to help New Yorkers when fire damages their residential or commercial properties, call us 24/7.

SERVPRO is often called by commercial and residential property owners after a fire causes property damage. We are the best fire damage team because we have years of training and developed methods that are unmatched by the competition. Insurance companies across the country trust us to clean up smoke, soot and odors because we use the most recent technology in cleaning products and equipment.

Our team will work with homeowners and insurance companies immediately upon their first visit to a residential home. Our team will ensure that homeowners are given priority when deciding what contents to keep. We can help you to get furniture, electronics, and toys cleaned up and returned quickly, if needed, for business purposes or your comfort.

Commercial properties will require us to restore documents, computers and other equipment. We want to ensure that these areas are open for business as soon as possible. We may work in multiple shifts for commercial projects to minimize downtime. Our team can handle large projects with large equipment and high ceilings.

We can also assist with structural damage. After the property has been cleaned up, we can start the construction phase. This helps to keep the process moving, and prevents delays in switching contractors and searching for sub-contractors.

Our offices are open 24/7/365. We are your local fire damage restoration specialists!

When Fire Damages Your Long Island City Building, We Can Help

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Long Island City is available to serve New York City residential and commercial properties when fire damage requires professional clean up.

Fire damage to a property can immediately affect your ability to live in it or work there. Other than the obvious structural damage, there could be other factors that render the home or commercial property uninhabitable. Soot and smoke damage are two of the most common causes. It is easy to underestimate the damage caused by smoke and soot after a fire. This type of disaster requires special products and equipment. It is best to contact SERVPRO immediately if you have suffered this type of property damage.

SERVPRO project managers have the ability to assess your property's damage after a fire, and provide transparent restoration processes. You or your insurance company, or both depending on the circumstances surrounding the loss, will be contacted directly by them. They will also provide daily communication about project progress reports and information so that you are always up to date on what is happening in your property.

We can also help with odor, soot, and smoke damage. After completing the restoration and cleaning, our team of construction professionals is ready to begin your project and rebuild your home.

We hope that your property is not damaged by fire. However, we are available 24/7/365 to assist you in the event of such damage.

Fire Damage Restoration/Clean Up

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Long Island City responds to fire calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We are available when you need us!

The aftermath of a fire can cause chaos in commercial and residential properties. Even a small fire can cause significant damage that may seem impossible to clean up. SERVPRO will take complete responsibility for your restoration and alleviate you from the pain and stress that comes with this labor-intensive clean up.

We have labor/work available 24/7, which means we can quickly increase our labor force wherever and whenever it is necessary to ensure that projects are completed efficiently but with precision. It is much easier to clean up after a fire than it is to do so quickly. To ensure that every project is done correctly, we work hard to clean all surfaces. We use the most up-to-date air-moving, dehumidification and air purification equipment, along with SERVPRO's exclusive cleaning products.

Once we have cleared all evidence of the fire, we can assess damage and provide complete construction/repair service. Our team is always available and ready to go. We will begin construction once all estimates have been approved by your insurance company.

Transparent pricing is provided on all services. We also provide daily communication for you and your insurer to keep you informed about progress and any unforeseen circumstances. We can offer a variety of services, including plumbing, electrical, appliance installation, insulation and painting.

We are available 24/7 to assist you if you find yourself in a difficult situation.

A Somber Reminder Of The Dangers of Fire

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Long Island City serves New York City, Call Us 24/7.

Last week the fire in the Bronx was a somber reminder of the dangers of a fire in a large commercial/residential building in New York City. Despite modern fire safety standards the loss of life was the largest seen in decades. Being prepared for a fire of this magnitude is difficult if not impossible, but preparing yourself and your family for a fire is always a good idea no matter where you live.

First and foremost, you should make sure all smoke detectors in your home are in working condition, this should be done every 6 months. For owners of multifamily residential properties fire safety inspections should be done regularly by your local fire department to make sure all systems, alarm and sprinkler, are in working condition. Next you should know all your evacuation routes, this will allow you options in case your planned evacuation route is blocked. If you live in a multifamily home with several floors it may be a good idea to occasionally walk these optional routes so they are familiar, especially in buildings where you typically use the elevators.

Let SERVPRO help with your residential fire damage.

9/29/2021 (Permalink)

Candles add a pleasant look to rooms and add a pleasant aroma. If left unattended, candles can cause fire damage to homes.

Candles add a pleasant look to rooms and add a pleasant aroma. If left unattended, candles can cause fire damage to homes.

After leaving a candle lit, a homeowner unintentionally set fire to the bedroom of his daughter. A fan also blew a piece of paper into the flames. Although firefighters quickly extinguished the fire, smoke damage was extensive in the room.

Removing Charred Items

The room where the candle was placed had too much damage to be cleaned and needed to be removed. The techs will not dispose of items without the approval of the homeowner/ adjuster. This ensures that property owners are fully informed about the restoration process and that SERVPRO®'s actions do not fall outside of their insurance coverage.

Testing before Cleaning

It is important to test any smoke residues before using any solution. This will ensure that the right agents and methods are used. The residue may vary depending on the temperature of the fire or the objects that were burned by the flames. Dry and wet smoke can be found in the same space.

Techs use dry cleaning sponges to remove the fine, dark smoke that is often found on walls. Wet smoke can often be removed from surfaces by using solvents.

Odor Control in the Bedroom

The removal of charred objects can help reduce the fire odors. Because hot air expands in the fire, it can push odorous smoke into porous items. Many times, the smells can be removed by using the same odor control methods, such as thermal fogging.

Duct Inspection

Although the fire occurred in the room of the daughter, the family still used the HVAC. There was a high possibility that the soot could have spread throughout the house via the ductwork.
SERVPRO® technicians removed all traces of odors from the ducts.

SERVPRO® restores fire damaged properties to preloss conditions.

Types of Fire Damages

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Most fire damage starts from the typical broken gas pipes and open electrical wires.

Most fire damage starts from the typical broken gas pipes and open electrical wires. However, there are a few classifications that causes fire and it would be really helpful to pretend any fire damage, if we would take the time to get ourselves familiarized with:  

Class A: involves combustible solids, plastics, paper, rubber, fabric, and wood.

Class B: Liquids and combustible solids that have turned into liquids cause damage. Gasoline, fuel, oil, polymers, and paints are examples of these substances. Cooking oils and fats are not included in this category.

Class C: Gases that are flammable, such as hydrogen, natural gas, butane, and propane.

Class D: Combustible gases such as potassium, sodium, and magnesium.

Class E: This classification combines Class A and Class B, but it also includes electrical components.

Class F: Cooking oils and fats cause damage. Cooking oils and fats are in their own category due to the fact that the fire is generally hotter and greater harm is done.

There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all fire extinguisher. Check the label on your fire extinguisher to discover what kinds of flames it can put out. Some fire extinguishers include water, making them unsafe to use on a Class E fire. Check your fire extinguisher's expiration date to make sure it's still okay to use in case of an emergency.

If you experience a fire in your home, the first step you should take is to call the fire department. Your second step should be to reach out to your insurance agent. Your final step should be calling SERVPRO.

All SERVPRO franchises are available 24/7 with highly trained restoration technicians. SERVPRO specializes in fire and water damage and will get your property looking “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Damage Can Be Hazardous in Long Island City

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot damage from a fire is not an easy task. Call SERVPRO and let their trained technicians do all the work for you.

SERVPRO Handles Soot and Tough Odors with Fire Damage Restoration to Bring Your Long Island City Property Back to Pre-Fire Condition

No matter the size of the fire, leftover soot and smoke pose a threat to your interior as well as any inhabitants of your Long Island City Home. Fire produces toxic gases and volatile particles that disperse quickly even after the flames get extinguished. SERVPRO has fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) on the team to address fire and smoke damage accordingly during your project. With our rapid response and proven methods, we have the power to make it “Like it never even happened.”

When SERVPRO addresses your fire damage in Long Island City, our technicians understand all of the potential dangers of burnt property. Because of this, we always put containment barriers in place around the work zones, and all of our crew wear the appropriate personal protective equipment.

Some of the hidden airborne dangers within fire damaged homes include:

• Microscopic particulate pollution in the form of dust or soot that present a danger if inhaled or ingested.
• There are potentially harmful, volatile organic compounds (VOC) found in fire loss situations that should never get inhaled.
• Some solvents for deodorizing or equipment used, such as ozone generators, can be harmful if operated inappropriately.

Our team always handles water & fire damage restorations with the utmost care and precision. We know how to address airborne smoke and soot particles with the help of air scrubbers and air filtration units. Everything works in unison to improve indoor air quality (IAQ) to eliminate dangers and odors so that no trace of the fire gets left behind. 

Call (718) 440-6994, and SERVPRO of Long Island City will have a crew at your front door ready to work within hours. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, offering area residents professional house fire clean up.

Queens Residents Deserve Prompt, Reliable Fire Cleanup

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the means and equipment for any size fire-damaged property you may have. Call now for the service you need.

Professional Fire Damage Restoration and Cleanup in Queens by SERVPRO Gets Results Fast!

Any fire event at your Queens residence is unfortunate, but the damage begins to compound if you do not address it as soon as possible. Whenever soot and smoke particles get left behind, your interior is subject to corrosion, breakdown, and foul odors. You can avoid yellowing surfaces and other severe secondary damage when contacting skilled fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) at SERVPRO. 

When working in fire cleanup in Queens, our team arrives quickly with a Green Fleet of vehicles loaded with tools and equipment for the job. We work fast once first responders deem the property safe to enter. Because we have proven methods and years of experience, we are the number one answer in the area to bring fire-damaged homes back to preloss condition. 

During fire and smoke remediation, steps we take include:

• A thorough assessment determining the extent of the damage to formulate the best course of action for house fire clean up
• Board up and tarping services as needed to protect your interior from further damage
• Detailed cleanup to remove debris, dirt, soot, and smoke residues from surfaces and the air throughout your home
• Water damage restoration to address any moisture left behind from extinguishing the flames
• Smoke damage treatment with the help of air scrubbers, odor-eliminating products, and various filtration systems
• Controlled demolition to remove and replace all charred materials 

Our crew also works to limit the onset of additional issues during fire cleanup, such as:

• Using containment as a way to limit movement of soot and smoke particles
• Movement of belongings off-site for cleaning
• HVAC and ductwork inspection to keep odorous particles from traveling into unaffected zones

Call SERVPRO of Long Island City at (718) 440-6994 when you want IICRC-certified technicians on the job! We are available 24/7.

Don’t Leave Fire Damage to Chance – Call the Pros to Your Astoria Property!

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO positions Ozone machines and HEPA filtration units to restore good IAQ inddor air quality after a fire damaging event in your Astoria home

SERVPRO ensures fire damaged homes get prompt attention in Astoria to return them to pre-fire condition

Even if there is a fire that only burned in one room of your Astoria living space, there may be other zones impacted by soot and smoke particles. The SERVPRO crew is composed of IICRC-certified fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) ready to tackle your fire and smoke damage. The result is your property “Like it never even happened,” back to pre-fire condition.

When handling fire damage in Astoria, our team utilizes the most advanced technology and best industry practices to get results. We work carefully and efficiently so that corrosive soot and smoke particles never have time to fester. Depending on what materials have been impacted by smoke and soot, SERVPRO uses various cleaning solutions and techniques to reach our desired goals. Some steps taken during fire restoration may include:

• Water removal services and extraction to remove the moisture left by first responders extinguishing the flames. We bring a variety of pumps and extractors to each project.
• Disinfection to remove potentially harmful bacteria.
• Ozone machines to neutralize pungent odors
• Deodorizing and purifying with HEPA filtration to remove smoke particles.
• Charred debris and unsalvageable materials removal.
• Controlled demolition services, as needed.

Fire damage restoration pros at SERVPRO of Long Island City ensure your house fire clean up goes as smoothly as possible. We can dispatch our Green Fleet within hours once you call us at (718) 440-6994 for emergency service.

Honor Your New Year’s Resolution to Learn to Dance in Queens

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Queens has your home covered from any size fire. We have the technicians and experience for the job.

Take the opportunity to grab lessons from a renowned Latin dance studio in Queens.

Many people have made resolutions to learn something they never thought was possible, and a great way to achieve this is through beginner classes of salsa dancing. The courses are still happening live with an instructor, following strict guidelines and regulations regarding distancing and sanitization.

Take advantage of the experience of renowned salsa/bachata styles Thursday, January 21st, 2021, from 8 PM to 9 PM. You can double up on the course by also catching another lesson Sunday, January 24th, from 4 PM to 5 PM. If you want to make these classes a regular thing to eventually master facets of Latin dancing, you can contact (347) 669-3589 for packages.

When the fire is on more than the dance floor, you can count on our SERVPRO of Long Island City team for fire damage in Queens homes and apartments. We have efficient cleaning, mitigation, and restoration practices we can begin right away. Give us a call when disasters strike at (718) 440-6994.

Benner’s Farm Fall Harvest in Long Island City

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is looking forward to having fun this fall in Long Island!

Fall Fun for Long Island City Families from September Through November

The Bremmer family homestead began farming in the 1700s. It is a privately-owned 15-acre homestead. Today it hosts thousands of families each year. This seventh generation of Bremmers are still working the soil as they have for centuries.

Step Back in Time

When you visit the farm, it is like taking a step back in time and experiencing farm life of past centuries. An organic farm they have gardens and strawberry farms. Bremmer’s holds workshops and other fun events throughout the year.  During November, you can enjoy a variety of fall fun. You can also arrange a private tour and hayride.

Part of the Community

SERVPRO of Long Island City is proud to provide fire odor cleanup in Long Island City. We are proud to belong to this fantastic, diverse community. Fall is upon us, and it’s time to enjoy the upcoming holidays. We want our neighbors to stay safe and healthy this fall season. Visit Bremmer’s and enjoy the cooler weather.

Is the Food in My Freezer Safe to Eat After a Garage Fire in Queens?

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Rely on SERVPRO of Long Island City to provide top-notch cleaning of fire damage residues and practical advice for your many questions.

The SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration Team In Queens Helps Sort Out a Broad Range of Health and Safety Concerns During All Phases of a Recovery Project

A home improvement project gone wrong in your Queens garage caused a small fire extinguished quickly. The cleanup of the residues still needs consultation with a professional fire damage restoration company to ensure your family's health and safety. As it is tucked under your living spaces, the garage fire's aftermath can contribute unwanted fumes, gasses, soot, and odors into other areas of your home.

What About My Deep Freezer? How Could the Fire Affect It?
As our crews employ mitigation, remediation, and restoration strategies to eliminate exposure to toxic residues after your Queens garage's fire damage, we pay attention to the effects on appliances. If, like many residents, you use your garage space to store food and beverages in refrigerators and freezers, do not assume the closed doors sealed out harmful vapors or soot. The chemicals or water used to put out the flames also might damage the cord, pug, or circuits inside the appliance.

Are There Guidelines for Frozen Food Safety After a Fire?
SERVPRO crews follow governmental agencies' advice when helping you assess whether the food inside a chest or upright freezer was protected adequately during and after a fire. Understand that freezer seals are unreliably airtight, so each situation must be investigated. Recommendations include:

    •    Keep the door to the freezer shut during a power outage caused by the fire
    •    When opening the freezer the first time, check for soot lines or a smoky odor -- if present, discard the food
    •    Ensure the appliance kept food at a temperature lower than 40 degrees F -- as the temperature of the frozen food rises, so does the risk
    •    If items thaw, you can cook and consume or cook and refreeze meat, fish, or poultry
    •    Refreeze thawed, cold (40 degrees or blow)  juices, baked goods, and dairy items
    •    Refreeze thawed vegetables only if ice crystals remain
    •    Obtain professional advice regarding whether the electronics, cord, or plug is still appropriately operational

Rely on SERVPRO of Long Island City to provide top-notch cleaning of fire damage residues and practical advice for your many questions. Call (718) 440-6994 as soon as possible after your loss.

Prevent House Fires in Queens – Tips That Can Save Your Life

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO’s professional technicians understand fire damage cleanup and the mitigation required to return your home to preloss condition.

Stay Safe in Queens by Being Proactive in Preventing Fires

California, Texas and New York rank highest for fire deaths in the United States. Over one-fourth of all fires are residential. Many Queens fires are preventable if you follow proper safety protocols.

 What Should I Do to Prevent a Fire?

Fires can strike at any time, in any home. With a fire comes destruction and often loss of much of your home. This also means you need fire damage cleanup in Queens. But many fires can be prevented. According to Total Fire & Protection, the Fire Department of New York City (FDNY) gets calls for approximately 2,200 structural fires each month. They also state,

“This number is staggering, especially considering that many landowners ignore measures that could reduce the risk of fires in their homes.”

Fire prevention is not difficult. It requires very little of your time or money, but it can go a long way in saving you in both of those areas. Here are safety precautions SERVPRO recommends:
•    Smoke Alarms – Every home should have several smoke alarms. A monthly test should be performed to ensure the alarm is operating correctly. Replace batteries yearly and replace the smoke alarms every ten years.
•    Open Flames – Never leave open flames unattended. Candles, fireplaces, and gas kitchen stoves are all examples of things you should never walk away from.
•    Dryers – Maintain your dryer by cleaning it regularly. Clean the lint trap after each load. Dryer fires from built-up lint is a common source of house fires.
•    Household Chemicals – Keep combustible products away from sunlight and heat sources. Store them away from the main living area, if possible.
•    Wiring – Do a regular check of household wires and cables. If they become frayed, worn out, or otherwise damaged, they can become a fire hazard. Replace damaged wires immediately.

If you do experience a fire, don’t attempt to clean up the damage yourself. SERVPRO’s professional technicians understand fire damage cleanup and the mitigation required to return your home to preloss condition. Contact SERVPRO of Long Island City at (718) 440-6994. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

What Steps Do I Take After a Fire at My Queens Apartment Complex?

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

We help your tenants get their homes back, and you get back to business.

If You Own a Queens Apartment Complex, You Need to Have A Plan In Case of a Fire

Over 2 million people live in Queens, with apartment complexes spread throughout the city. Harry Houdini is buried there, beautiful pianos get made in Queens, and it claims the world’s first road explicitly made for cars. The last thing anyone wants to experience there is an apartment fire.

What Do I Need to Do First?

Apartment complex owners have great responsibility. Not only do they have the running of the apartments and maintenance to worry about, but the lives of everyone in the apartments should something happen. There is nothing more devastating than fire damage in Queens. Apt owners should prepare in the event a fire does occur. The first thing you should do if a fire breaks out is to notify all the tenants. Have a plan in place that enables you to contact them immediately.

Steps to Take After an Apartment Fire

Once everyone has been notified, and the building gets cleared, you should take nine more steps. The fire department will help make sure the complex is entirely empty. Here is what else should take place:
    •    Find the source of the fire. The fire department and tenants help determine this. You will need to know this for insurance purposes.
    •    Contact your insurance company right away. They will send adjusters and investigators to the location immediately.
    •    Call in a fire restoration company. Not all fires cause a total loss. Many times a restoration company can clean and restore your apartments to preloss condition.
    •    Secure the building. You may have to board up windows and doors to protect against intruders. The restoration company should help with emergency procedures like this.
    •    Document the damage. Take pictures and thoroughly document the loss for insurance purposes.
    •    Determine liability. You want to work with authorities to determine liability. If the tenant was responsible for the fire, their renter’s insurance would cover restoration costs. If it occurs from a wiring situation, you are responsible.
    •    Begin restoration immediately. As soon as it is possible, allow the fire restoration company to get started. They can provide emergency mitigation quickly. The longer you wait, the more secondary damage can occur.
    •    Have your apartments reinspected. Once the fire restoration gets completed, then you can get the complex reinspected.
    •    Move tenants back in and start renting again.

Professional Fire Restoration Technicians Work with You

At SERVPRO, our fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) are the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certified. They understand what fire damage, apt, or any other structure can mean to those involved.  As an apartment owner, you want to get your tenants back in their homes and have your livelihood restored as well. We work with you to see that both things occur as quickly as possible.

Basic Fire Mitigation Steps

Each situation is unique, and what is involved in restoring your apartments to the preloss condition can vary based on the type of fire. Minor fires may require very little in the way of restoration, and only one apartment is involved. Another fire can start in one apartment and quickly spread to others before containment. However, there are steps SERVPRO techs take that are basic to each fire damage situation. These include:
    •    Ensuring the safety of the structure
    •    Emergency mitigation such as boarding up windows etc
    •    Water extraction
    •    Mucking out if needed
    •    Drying out the apartment
    •    Repair and replacing items such as carpet, drywall, and sheetrock
    •    Proper disposal of charred and fire-damaged debris
    •    Deodorizing to remove smoke odors
    •    Cleaning and sanitizing all surface areas
    •    Use EPA approved cleaning products
    •    Cleaning and restoring the content of the apartment
    •    Cleaning the HVAC system
    •    Leaving your complex, “Like it never even happened.”

 Let SERVPRO Handle the Stress

You have enough to do without wondering if things are taken care of properly. Our crews will work with your insurance company, so you don’t have to worry about going back and forth. We keep you apprised of the situation every step of the way, so you know precisely what is happening. If the content cannot be cleaned on-site, we offer your tenants pack-out services. With years of experience, you can trust SERVPRO to handle everything that comes with the aftermath of fire damage to your apartment complex.

 A fire in an apartment complex can be terrifying as it can quickly move from one apartment to the next. When you need emergency fire mitigation, We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster. Contact SERVPRO of Long Island City at (718) 440-6994 for professional fire restoration when fire damage in an apt occurs. We help your tenants get their homes back, and you get back to business.

How Can I Prevent Bedroom Fires in Long Island City?

7/26/2020 (Permalink)

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

SERVPRO can help you set up a readiness plan as well as cleanup fore loss in your Long Island City home

One of the essential parts of a fire prevention plan is outlining what each member of the family needs to do in case of fire and safe practices. Last but not least, determine who you will call if a fire occurs and you need cleanup. While residential fires in Long Island City tend to happen in the kitchen, mostly, bedroom fires are also common for the following reasons:
    •    Candles left unattended  
    •    Falling asleep smoking in bed  
    •    Improper use of extension cords
    •    Overloading outlets

Can My Mattress Get Reused After Fire Damage?

Very few mattresses have restoration potential after fire damage in your Long Island City home for reasons ranging from the construction materials to not meeting flame retardant standards that were tightened in 2007. If the bedding and window treatments in the bedroom do not have charring but smell strongly of smoke odors, they may have restoration potential if they are machine washable. SERVPRO techs have access to the Esporta Washing System that can render even the most smoke-laden fabrics to food-grade cleanliness after a single wash.

Bed frames made of metal tend to have the best outcome from fire loss; however, soot can be caustic to some metals, and it needs removal as rapidly as possible. Wooden headboards and footboards may have restoration potential if the joints did not get damaged from exposure to heat or water, and the wood has no signs of charring. The removal of the smoke residues may require that the wood gets refinished, but it saves the cost of replacement.

Fire damage can be devastating and feel overwhelming to deal with. Contact SERVPRO of Long Island City at (718) 440-6994, and the trained, certified technicians can clean and restore your home to its preloss condition.

Can I Ever Get Rid of the Soot in My Home Since the Fire?

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

Sooty walls and smelly odors in your Queens residence? SERVPRO can help, "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Addresses Fire Damage and Soot in Your Queens Home to Return it to Pre-Loss Condition

Fires happen unexpectedly, and the aftermath leaves your Queens home with an unprecedented amount of debris and sticky soot residue. SERVPRO is here to make sure that your interior is back to normal and free of any reminder that the fire took place. With a simple phone call, we deploy a team to your residence to start with emergency fire restoration services.

How Can You Make Sure All Soot and Odors are Gone?

Smoke and soot particles are some of the top elements that we address when it comes to fire damage in Queens. Soot residue is acidic, meaning that it can cause certain materials like metals to corrode. We address soot residue in several ways, including:
•    Dry or wet cleaning methods to loosen soot and smoke particles from various surfaces
•    Thermal fogging technology heats deodorant agents that put out a chemical cloud, which penetrates materials to pull out tough odors
•    In some situations where a lot of smoke residue is present on exposed surfaces, our skilled technicians seal off the walls with a special primer followed by the final paint color

Will the Air in My Home be Safe?

We utilize a variety of filtration tools to pull particles from the air to improve upon the air quality in your home. This ensures that your interior is both safe and free from lingering smoke odors after the fire.
•    Air Scrubbers are powerful tools that reduce particulates from the environment while cutting back on microorganism colonization.
•    Hydroxyl Generators work to both deodorize your interior while purifying and filtering the air with the help of HEPA filters.

There is nothing like the prompt, professional fire damage service that we offer at SERVPRO of Long Island City. With a quick phone call to our team at (718) 440-6994, we can be there 24/7 to get started with emergency restoration services.

Proven Tips to Combat Fire Damage in Queens

2/29/2020 (Permalink)

Some electrical fires can be prevented. Contact SERVPRO after facing fire damage or to learn some methods to prevent fires.

Eliminating Electrical Fire Damage from a Queens Condo

Home electrical fires are the root of over 50,000 fires per year and well over $1 billion in damages to property. Whether a space heater catches fire or an overburdened outlet gives way to flames, this type of fire is challenging to mitigate with consumer-grade products alone. 

If your Queens condo needs fire damage mitigation on a moment's notice, SERVPRO technicians are available to come to your home within hours of your call to remove damage and restore your residence to a preloss condition. These IICRC-certified professionals are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, to remove damage quickly. The goal is to minimize losses while maximizing the potential for restoration so that you can save time, money, and stress.

Minimizing Electrical Fire Risks

• Use a surge protector. One of the leading causes of electrical fires is the use of overburdened outlets. You can prevent this with surge protectors, which should not be confused with power strips. You can also install additional outlets in your home. 
• Never leave electronics unattended. While there is little need to monitor your computer or television constantly, fire risks like space heaters should not be used without supervision. 
• Mind the areas around outlets and cords. Keep flammable materials, such as fabrics, away from electronics that are in use.
• Remove risky devices. If you have an appliance that sparks every time you plug it into an outlet or that trips your breakers when it runs, throw it out.

SERVPRO Cleans From Top to Bottom

When fire damage happens in your home, SERVPRO technicians use a specific process to address it. Technicians work from ceiling to floor to remove mild deposits before moving on to heavier stains and residues. 

Dry-cleaning methods, including dry cleaning sponges and vacuuming loose soot deposits, are implemented before stronger alkaline cleaners or blast media. If an appliance such as a space heater has charred nearby wood furniture or flooring, the area can be blasted with soda ash to eliminate blackened areas while mitigating some of the odor from the fire.

SERVPRO of Long Island City serves the community by being Faster to Any Size Disaster. No matter when disaster strikes, you can call (718) 440-6994.

Click here for more information about Queens.

Fire Clean-Up New York City

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a commercial building needs a fast response team that has the know-how to get the businesses in the building back to work.

After a fire in a commercial building, you need a team of experienced cleaning technicians to move in and begin the mitigation process quickly. SERVPRO of Long Island City provides top-notch fire clean up services in New York City. With over 15 years of experience in disaster restoration and backed by the training and technology of SERVPRO, we are fast and reliable and can provide services that rise above and beyond expectations. When fire and smoke damage occurs in a commercial building the businesses that work in the building are prone to losses in production, we cut down on that time. We provide cleaning and repairing in multiple shifts and even scaling up our labor force if needed. If you are in need of fire damage repair services call us today.

Fire Damage Repair NYC

9/5/2019 (Permalink)

We were recently called into a residential building in Long Island City where a small boiler fire created a big mess in the force hot-air building. Like many highrise residential buildings in New York City forced hot-air is used to heat the building in the wintertime, and move fresh cool air throughout the building the rest of the year. The system relies on ductwork that begins in the basement. So when the fire in the basement broke out the soot and dust that was created quickly filled the air ducts and left a mess in many apartments within the building.

We were prepared and ready to clean the ducts from the basement to each and every apartment to ensure a clean and healthy environment for all residents.

Back To School, Fire Safety 101

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires account for the majority of residential fires across the country and in September, when the kids go off to college, many will stay in 'apartment-style' dorm rooms. These dorms feature private bathrooms, common living spaces and sometimes a common kitchen. In these living conditions, the chances of a fire in the kitchen increase dramatically, not just because younger people might not always be the most experienced cooks, but because there are several kitchens throughout the building. If your children are heading off to college for the first time remind them to cautious and aware of the potential for a kitchen. Also, check to see that their kitchen is equipped with a working fire extinguisher. Of course, if there is damage from a fire in your building we can help. We are prepared to restore large properties, like dorm rooms and apartment complexes, after fire, water, soot and smoke damage.

Dry Grass & Leaves, Chance of Fire Increases

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Throughout the northeast, we have, for the most part, enjoyed a rather flawless summer so far when it comes to the weather. Some areas have been hotter than others and the occasional thunderstorm has rolled through towns and cities to cause some damage and flash flooding but otherwise, it has been warm and sunny almost every weekend. One concern many home and business owners should be aware of is the increased chance of fire due to dry grass and leaves while we are enjoying these prolonged periods without rain.

Many times a backyard fire, a BBQ, or fireworks can be the cause of the of these types of fires that quickly get out of control and cause damage to property in the immediate area. 

The best way to prevent these types of fires is to be aware of flammable dry grass and leaves in the immediate area and to always keep a water source nearby. If you do ever experience damage from a fire contact our offices immediately after your local contacting emergency response.

Smoke & Soot Cleaning After A Fire Damage

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

Restoring a home after fire damage is a difficult and emotional process. From the perspective of the home or business owner, the task can seem impossible. SERVPRO of Long Island City specializes in this type of clean-up and we consistently train our crew members on the correct approach for clean-up after a fire. We recently were called into clean-up a fire damaged building where soot and smoke had filled several areas of the property leaving behind a coat of black dirt and debris throughout the lower level. Our crew members immediate jumped to action first clearing the smoked damaged areas and then thoroughly scrubbing and washing down the cement interior until all of the soot is removed. Our full-service crew provides construction services and was also available to repair fire-damaged areas of the property.

Christmas Tree Fires Account for Millions of Dollars in Property Damage Annually

12/12/2018 (Permalink)

Christmas trees and holiday decorations account for millions of dollars in property damage every year. Please share these basic safety tips to ensure your family's well being this holiday season.

• Look for a fresh tree, these are less likely to catch fire. Vibrant green needles that do not fall off easily. The Frazier Fir is a great choice and has a softer needle that does not dry out as quickly.
• Remember to water your tree immediately after getting it home and in the stand. Continue to water the tree until it stops taking water.
• Keep your tree away from heat sources, candles and other electronics.
• All your Christmas lights should be UL or ETL/ITSNA tested for safety, and you should throw away damaged lights.
• Be sure to plug outdoor lights into a ground-fault circuit interrupter protected receptacle.
• Keep all your candles away from your Christmas tree, surrounding furniture and décor. If possible avoid candles all together especially this time of year when there tend to be more flammable items around the home.
• Don’t forget to turn your Christmas tree lights off each night.
• When your tree's needles begin to fall, it is time to take it down.

Follow these guidelines and avoid being another statistic in the National Fire Protection Association or United States Fire Administration report this holiday season. Of course, if you do have an emergency contact us immediately along with the local emergency response departments needed. We will be there to help you get things back, "Like it never even happened."

Warehouse Fire Repair

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

Recently we needed to pull resources from our multiple franchise locations to a fire & water restoration at a food distribution center. The partially damaged building needed to be restored quickly to prevent contamination and mold growth in areas of the warehouse that were not directly affected by the fire. In disaster restoration time is always crucial and we train our techs to work quickly and efficiently to ensure the environment is returned to normal ASAP! In this particular case, we knew there were hundreds of thousands of dollars in perishable products that were at risk to be damaged so we arrived on scene within hours and had equipment and techs on site shortly thereafter. We were able to clean and restore the facilities within 48 hours in time to re-open only 3 days after the fire damage occurred.

Fire Restoration

11/8/2017 (Permalink)

Restoring a home or place of business after a small fire is always a difficult task. Even a small cooking fire can cause damage and immerse the surrounding areas with soot and a smell that will linger permanently if not treated correctly. SERVPRO® of Washington County is the area's most experienced disaster recovery team. We have decades of combined experience amongst our ranks and we extensively train each and every new crew member to utilize proven techniques and to optimally manage all drying equipment. Since we are a SERVPRO® Franchise we have access to new technology, equipment, and methods that are backed and tested by the nation's most reliable disaster relief franchise. Hopefully, you will never need our services, but if your home or commercial properties ever experience a fire we will be there when you call. 

Residential Fires

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

Residential fires are some of the most difficult situations we encounter. Not because our crew is unprepared for the event, but because the personal loss of a home and possessions is extremely painful for the owners and can lead to a highly scrutinized job site. Our crew is prepared for this and sympathizes with the anguish each and every homeowner feels after a disaster has impeded their life. We are trained to move quickly understanding that every moment saved at the onset of disaster recovery increases the chance of a successful mitigation exponentially. We carefully attempt to salvage any items that can be restored and store them in our warehouse to be cleaned and dried. After the structure has been reviewed we then begin the cleaning process, being careful to protect any undamaged areas of the home before we start. Once clean we can begin drying and assessing the damage totality, our trained crew includes carpenters and other subcontractors that can help to expedite the recovery process and get you back in your home faster.

Fire Pit Safety Tips

5/2/2017 (Permalink)

Fire pits are a great way to accessorize your yard and they are perfect for gatherings! When you use your fire pit, make sure you are keeping you and your property safe by following these safety tips!

Location

Make sure you keep your fire pit AT LEAST 10 feet away from any structures. This may help prevent sparks from hitting your home and excessive smoke from entering your or your neighbor’s home.

Do NOT put your fire pit under tree branches or on a covered deck. Make sure your fire pit is in a location where the flames and sparks will not hit any objects.

Under the Pit

If your fire pit is not built into the ground, make sure you have stone, brick, gravel, or concrete under the pit. This will help prevent the area below the pit from burning. You should NEVER place your pit over dry grass or over a wooden deck. This is because the heat from the base of it pit may spark a fire to the ground below it.

Weather

Do not use your fire pit if it is windy. The wind may push sparks from the fire to an area that is flammable.

When you are using your fire pit, you should notice the direction the breeze is blowing. You should move any object out of the way of where the breeze is blowing to help prevent a fire from occurring.

Lighting the Pit

When lighting your fire pit, use a commercial fire starter pack. Do NOT use lighter fluid or gasoline to light the pit or to relight fires. You should always keep water nearby just in case the fire inside of the pit spreads.

Before you use your fire pit, you should check your town’s laws on fire pits. Some towns require a permit and an inspection. If the unfortunate happens, call the experts at SERVPRO. We will restore your property and make it look “Like it never even happened.”

Types of Fire Damage

4/14/2017 (Permalink)

According to the NFPA, the number of fires your household can expect in an average lifetime is five. Any fire regardless of size will cause damage to your property. Fire damage is classified into six different classes and the type of fire damage can be classified in two ways.

Six Types of Fire Damage

Fires are classified into six different classes. These classes are Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, Class E, and Class F.

• Class A: Involves flammable solids, plastics, paper, rubber, cloth, and wood
• Class B: Damage is caused by flammable solids that became liquids and by liquids. Examples of these types of substance are gasoline, petrol, oil, plastics and, paints. Cooking oils and fats are excluded from this class
• Class C: Involves flammable gasses such as hydrogen, natural gas, butane, and propane
• Class D: Damage is caused by combustible gasses such as potassium, sodium, and magnesium
• Class E: This class is a combination of Class A and Class B but, it involves electrical elements
• Class F: Damage is caused by cooking oils and fats. Cooking oils and fats are in their own class because the fire is usually hotter and more damage is caused.

Fire extinguishers are not a one size fits all. Make sure you read the label on your fire extinguisher to see what types of fires it can put out. Some fire extinguishers are water based which would not be safe to use on a Class E fire. Also, check the expiration date on your fire extinguisher to make sure it is still good to use in case of an emergency.

Types of Fire Damage

Most insurance companies use two classifications for fire damage. These categories are primary damage and secondary damage.

• Primary Damage: Damage is caused by direct flames to the structure or to objects inside of the structure
• Secondary Damage: Damage is caused by corrosive substances, smoke, and water from putting the fire out

Secondary damage typically causes the most damage to the structure. This is because soot and smoke can work its way throughout the structure.

If you experience a fire in your home, the first step you should take is to call the fire department. Your second step should be to reach out to your insurance agent. Your final step should be calling SERVPRO. All SERVPRO franchises are available 24/7 with highly trained restoration technicians. SERVPRO specializes in fire and water damage and will get your property looking “Like it never even happened”.