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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts

Fire Prevention

11/4/2024 (Permalink)

As we welcome the beautiful fall season, filled with vibrant leaves and cozy gatherings, it’s essential to keep fire safety at the forefront of our minds. SERVPRO® wants you to enjoy all of the seasonal fun while taking the necessary precautions to protect your home and loved ones.
If you’re planning to burn leaves or have a bonfire, please remember to CHECK THE WIND ADVISORIES IN YOUR AREA FIRST! Windy conditions can quickly escalate a small fire into a dangerous situation. Always ensure you have a clear area free of flammable materials and keep a water source nearby just in case.
Here are a few more fire prevention tips to keep in mind this fall:
1. Inspect Your Fire Pit: Make sure your fire pit is in good condition and located away from structures, trees, and other flammable materials.
2. Use Safe Burning Practices: Only burn dry leaves and avoid burning on windy days. Consider composting leaves as a safer alternative!
3. Check Your Smoke Alarms: With the change of seasons, it’s a great time to test your smoke alarms and replace batteries if needed.
4. Keep an Eye on Candles: If you’re lighting candles for ambiance, never leave them unattended and keep them away from decorations.
At SERVPRO® of Bullitt & N. Nelson Co., we’re here to help you enjoy the fall festivities safely. If you ever face fire damage or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your safety is our priority!      

Fire Department Training

10/30/2023 (Permalink)

Fire truck parked in front of the local fire department training facility. Fire truck parked in front of the local fire department training facility.

SERVPRO® of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties works very closely with our local fire departments in order to understand the complexities of fire damage and losses. We have accompanied our fire fighters during their monthly training exercises and spent time talking with them to learn how we can help our customers through dealing with a fire loss. 

Most people believe that a fire loss means that your structure has suffered severe structural damage but often times it is actually a small area of actual structural fire damage while your entire home may be damaged by soot and smoke. SERVPRO® has experienced and knowledgeable technicians that know how to handle every aspect of fire clean-up. We have specific products that will remove all the soot from your walls and the smoke smell from the atmosphere of your home. We will remove any and all fire damaged contents and send them out to a company that specializes in cleaning and restoring your personal property. The property restoration companies that we use are specially trained in cleaning and restoring delicate and priceless items, so you can have peace of mind knowing that your items are being handled with care.

Aside from working closely with our local fire departments and content restoration comanies, our team is dedicated to working along side your insurance company to insure that they have all of the documentation needed to easily process your claim.

SERVPRO® is here for you 24 hours a day 7 days a week to make sure that you receive the best care possible!

What we do Post Fire

9/14/2022 (Permalink)

Image of exposed frame work inside a room. Ceiling to floor coverage of white primer. Ceiling to floor cover with KILZ oil based primer to prevent smoke odor after a fire.

Clean up after an apartment fire.

One of the units in this building caught fire and once we were cleared to step in and help the building owner, SERVPRO had to tear everything out; down to the studs. All studs and walls that still maintain their structural integrity are sprayed with KILZ, this Oil-Based Primer is a powerful stain blocking formula that blocks most heavy interior stains including water, smoke, tannin, ink, pencil, felt marker, grease, and also seals pet, food and smoke odors. This helps keep down cost and will provide the homeowner with an odor free home, "Like it never even happened".

Out of sight out of mind - Fire Damage

9/14/2022 (Permalink)

image of a corner of a room, showing black smoke damage near an exhaust fan on the ceiling. Smoke damage that we see, but what is the damage behind the walls?

When your home experiences a fire there are a few things that you probably didn't think about that could have taken on damage.

  • Ducts and HVAC system
  • Installation
  • Behind the Drywall
  • Electrical
  • Attic and crawl space
  • Structural Integrity / Framing
  • Soot and smoke will damage furniture, flooring, cabinets, 

If the fire didn't touch it or damage it, the soot and smoke did. Soot isn't always visible and it will damage the air quality and all items in the home. Before you have the professionals come out to clean up, cover the furniture with blankets and lay down mats or blankets in high traffic areas to protect the flooring.

SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties is here to help you! No job is too large or too small. 

"Like it never even happened"

Call us 24/7 at 502-904-0710

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Electrical Fires - Common Causes

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

fire damage in a living room. Ceiling falling down. Smoke damage and blackened walls. Living room fire damage

According to the U.S Fire Administration there are approximately 24,000 electrical fires per year.

  • 83% of electrical fires most often happen in One- and Two- family homes. 
  • 12% of these fires occur in January due to the increase of heating appliances and lights. 
  • 15% of residential fires happen in the bedroom.
  • 13% of residential fires happen in attics or vacant crawl spaces

COMMON CAUSES OF ELECTRICAL FIRES:

  1. Faulty outlets and appliances. Never use an appliance with a worn or frayed cord, which can send heat onto combustible surfaces like floors, curtains, and rugs that can start a fire.
  2. Light fixtures. Always check the maximum recommended bulb wattage on any lighting fixture or lamp and never go over the recommended amount.
  3. Extension cords. Only use extension cords as a temporary measure, NEVER plug an appliance into an extension cord. If you do not have the appropriate type of outlets for your appliances, hire an electrician to install new ones.
  4. Space heaters. These types of heaters are portable, many times people put them too close to combustible surfaces such as curtains, beds, clothing, chairs, couches and rugs.
  5. Wiring. If a home is over 35 years old, it may not have the wiring capacity to handle the increased amounts of electrical appliances in today’s average home, such as computers, wide-screen televisions, video and gaming players, microwaves and air conditioners. 

NEVER use an appliance with a worn or frayed cord, which can send heat onto combustible surfaces like floors, curtains, and rugs that can start a fire.

SERVPRO - We are here for you 24/7

"Like it never even happened."

What to do when you have an OVEN FIRE

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Large fire with rolling smoke coming from open oven. Oven fire.

Fires in a home most commonly happen in the kitchen. While frightening, an oven fire can usually be contained and prevented.

What to do

  1. LEAVE THE OVEN DOOR CLOSED! You do NOT want to feed it any oxygen.
  2. TURN OFF THE OVEN and allow the fire to burn out on its own. Move all appliances away from the oven.
  3. If it does not go out on its own, leave the house and call 911.
  4. If the fire does go out, carefully open the oven door (it will be smoky) and Open all the windows.

Quick Safety Tip:

  • Don’t store things on top of, in, or around your oven.

Keep flammable things like dish towels, paper bags, or cereal boxes, away from your stove. Don’t use your oven as ‘extra storage’ for flammable things like paper or plastic bags, plastic containers, or dish towels. Even if you don’t turn the oven on, the pilot light can ignite objects inside.

  • Be mindful of how you prep and cook your food.

Over-filling a baking pan with batter may overflow into the bottom of the oven and catch fire. Use an oversized pan under your baking dish to catch the overflow.

When cooking fatty foods like goose, duck, steak, and bacon, the grease will splatter and spark a fire. Do not leave your food unattended. Drain the grease periodically to prevent a fire.

If you're ever faced with a kitchen damaged by any type of fire and you’re in the Bullitt county or northern Nelson county area, we’re here for you.  When you need expert help with fire damage, you can depend on SERVPRO. Our teams are standing by 24/7 with industry-certified fire and smoke cleanup services.

Safety tips about Smoke Alarms

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

advertisement to remind you to change your smoke alarm batteries when you Spring forward one hour for Daylight Savings Time. Change your batteries at least once a year.

Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can get outside quickly.

National Fire Protection Association breaks down important facts and explains the different Smoke Alarms available.

  • A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement. Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound.
  • Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
  • It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds they all sound.
  • Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
  • Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
  • A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
  • People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
  • Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
  • Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan.

Grease Fire - What to do in an Emergency

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Grease fire in a pan, on the stove top. Flames in a pan with a person extending a metal lid to smother the fire. Stove top, pan grease fire

Grease Fire- According to Fire and Rescue.

  1. Cover the flames with a metal lid or cookie sheet. Leave the cover on until it has cooled.
  2. Turn off the heat source. 
  3. If it’s small and manageable, pour baking soda or salt on it to smother the fire.
  4. As a last resort, spray the fire with a Class B dry chemical fire extinguisher.
  5. Do not try to extinguish the fire with water.
  6. Do not attempt to move the pot or pan outside.

Do not use flour, baking powder, or other cooking powders that resemble baking soda - they have a different chemical makeup and will not react similarly. They will make the fire worse.

IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE GREASE FIRE:

  1. GET OUT! 
  2. Close the door as you leave to help contain the fire.
  3. Call 911 as soon as you are at a safe distance from the fire. 
  4. Do not re-enter your home until the fire has been contained by firefighters. 

Your home and belongings are replaceable, YOU ARE NOT.

SERVPRO - We are here for you 24/7. We will clean it up and repair your home.

"Like it never even happened."

What to do after Fire Damage

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire. Image shows fire damage cabinets and flooring. Smoke damage to entire home. This home had a kitchen fire which led to smoke damage throughout the home.

According to National Fire Protection Association the most common fire dangers are cooking equipment, heating equipment, dryers, electrical and lighting equipment, smoking materials, and arson. What do you do after the fire trucks have left? How do you get back to normalcy?

  1. Talk to your insurance agent before anyone else. They are experienced with property emergencies and recommend qualified remediation and restoration companies. SERVPRO is here for you.
  2. Secure the property and prevent further damage. SERVPRO will do this for you.
  3. Collect damage information. SERVPRO will collect photos of the damage for your insurance agent. 

To facilitate repairs and rebuilding, you’ll want to move unaffected furniture, equipment and possessions out of the way. SERVPRO will do this for you. Even though they may not be fire damaged or scorched, it’s likely that most items will have some degree of soot or smoke contamination or water damage. On average, Firefighters use nearly 3,000 gallons of water on a house fire. Nothing should be packed away without proper cleaning to eliminate odor and other contaminants. This type of cleaning often needs professional attention, especially when leather, upholstery, rugs and electrical equipment is involved. Be certain to check before discarding items of any real or sentimental value, because today’s contents cleaning technologies can undo even significant smoke, soot and water damage.

SERVPRO

"Like it never even happened."

Fire Pit Safety this Fall

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

Fall is the time for outdoor fire pits and family time making smores. Fire Pit safety starts with selecting the right site. Make sure the ground is level. Keep fires located at least 10-20 feet away from plants and your home.

Never operate your fire pit beneath a building overhang or a partially enclosed space. Use a lot of caution with overhanging trees which can easily ignite. 

For wood burning fire pits cut logs so their length is less than three quarters the diameter of the pit. Never use lighter fluid or gasoline to start a fire pit. Position chairs so that people can move about their seats without tumbling into the fire. Keep an eye out on children whenever a fire pit is being used.

SERVPRO of BULLITT & N. Nelson counties is available 24/7 in the event of a house fire caused by a Fire pit.

What To Do After a Fire

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

There are some safety tips to keep your family safe and minimize the damage to your property after a fire.

1) Try to limit the amount of movement in your home to prevent soot from damaging upholstery and carpets.

2) Keep your hands clean so you do not soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.

3) Take clean towels or sheets and put on upholstery and rugs.

4) Empty the freezer and refrigerator if the electricity is off and then prop open the door.

5) We recommend you change the HVAC filter.

6) Tape off Air registers.

7) Clean chrome with petroleum oil.

8) Wash off houseplants on both sides of the leaves.

Call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties and a restoration specialist will be on site quickly to asses the damage and create a plan to get your home back to looking "Like it never even happened."

Grilling Sarety Tips during the Summer

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

grill plates with flames coming out Grilling Safety this Summer

This is a list of important safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association when grilling out this summer.

1) DO NOT GRILL inside and enclosed area such as a home or inside a garage.

2) Keep all children away from grills.

3) Make sure to check Gas Grills for leaks in the hoses.

4) Please remove all grease that may have built up on your grill and also in the trays.

5) If you smell gas and are using a propane grill call the fire department right away. DO NOT move the grill.

6) the grill needs to be two feet away from the house, the back deck, and any tree branches.

7) When using a charcoal grill be sure to let the charcoal cool down completely before throwing out the coals.

8) While using a propane grill if the flame goes out turn the gas completely off and wait five minutes before lighting it again.

Stay safe this summer while grilling out with family and friends.

Fire Safety Tips for the Summer

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

Brown cabinets, open ceiling soot damage in kitchen, pink insulation from ceiling Shepherdsville Kitchen Fire

SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties wanted to share some important fire safety tips in the home while you enjoy the summer.

1) Only use grills on the ground floor. If you use on porches or balconies this leads to a higher risk for house fires.

2) Make sure and build campfires at least 10 feet away from your home and 25 feet away from tents and overhanging branches.

3) Always open your gas grill before lighting.

4) Wear short sleeves and use long handled tools while barbecuing on the grill.

5) Keep at least three feet safety area around your grill to insure safety for the kids and your home.

6) We do not recommend setting off your own fireworks because they can reach up to 1000 degrees and can cause third degree burns.

7) Never walk away from your grill while it is lit. keep an eye on it at all times.

8) Cleaning the grill after every use to remove the grease will help prevent a fire.

9) Put coals in a metal container after they have cooled.

10) Only use your grill outdoors because using them indoors can cause a house fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.

3 Important things to know about the smoke alarm

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

picture of smoke alarm Smoke Alarm Facts

Smoke alarm maintenance is extremely important. Make sure and keep your alarm free of dust and keep them clean. You will want to change the batteries at least once a year. Testing the unit is also extremely important. You can do this by pressing the button and listening for the loud alarm.

The second item to consider with your smoke alarm is its lifespan. Most alarms have a lifespan of eight to ten years. If you have a smoke detector that is operating longer than the manufacturer recommends it should be replaced. Check the manufacturer's instructions for how long your smoke alarm is recommended to last.

The final thing to consider with your smoke alarm is where to place the alarm. Many experts recommend having a smoke detector on every floor in your home. Another extremely important place to have a alarm would be to install one in each bedroom. In addition to placing one outside in the hallway.

What to do in the event of a Grease Fire

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

brown kitchen cabinets, red towel hanging from oven door, grease fire on top of stove KITCHEN GREASE FIRE

If a grease fire should start in the kitchen there are several things you will need to do to keep your family safe. First step would be to cover the flames with a metal lid or a cookie sheet. You will need to leave the cover on until it has cooled. The second thing to do is to turn off the heat source. Thirdly, if the grease fire is relatively small you can pour BAKING SODA or SALT on the fire to extinguish it. As a very last resort you can spray the fire with a class B dry chemical fire extinguisher.

You NEVER want to use water to extinguish a grease fire. Also do not move the pot or pan outside, this can be extremely dangerous. 

If a grease fire occurs in your kitchen it is important that you do not use flour, baking powder or other items that may look like baking soda or salt. They have a different chemical makeup and will not act the same as salt or baking soda and it will only make the fire worse.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

ceiling fan hanging in middle of room, drywall completely removed, open ceiling, debris on concrete floor ELECTRICAL FIRE DESTROYS FAMILY ROOM

Fire and smoke damage is different in every situation. When looking at the damage SERVPRO experts determine the best solution for your home. Our expertise in smoke damage along with our experience in handling fire losses allows us to develop a plan after such devastation.

Smoke and soot are two different elements in a fire that can invade several crevices of your home. This is a perfect situation to conceal hidden damage and odors.

The two different types of smoke are WET and DRY. Because they are different the soot they leave behind is also different. Wet smoke is sticky and has a foul odor. Dry smoke is extremely fast burning with high temperatures.

SERVPRO of BULLITT & North Nelson Counties will test the soot to discover which particular smoke damaged occurred in the fire. We then base our decision found during the pretesting.

How do House Fires Usually Start

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen destroyed by fire, black debris throughout the room, 2 large windows, ceiling exposed to sky, one black kitchen chair Kitchen Fire Destroys Home

There are 350,000 annual house fires and they happen for various reasons.

1) Faulty Electrical Wiring

2) Overheated Appliances

3) Unattended Fireplace and Candles

KITCHEN:

The kitchen is where half of all residential fires start due to appliances that use heat or gas and operate  with electricity. Appliances that are 15 years or older are the most prone to fire damage. 

These appliances are usually associated with kitchen fires.

1) Dishwashers- Heating elements can overheat especially in older models.

2) Dryers- Keep vents clean by removing lint after every use.

3) Microwaves- DO NOT heat foods or materials that are flammable such as aluminum foil and Styrofoam

4) Toasters- The electrical elements inside a toaster can become faulty over time and cause a fire.

Bedrooms have several potential fire hazards such as bedding, mattresses and curtains. Install smoke alarms in every bedroom

Fireplaces and Chimneys:

Keep chimneys and fireplaces cleaned and have them inspected at least once a year. Keep rugs and other fabrics away and always keep a spark screen in front of the fireplace.

Living Rooms usually contain many flammable items such as electronics, curtains and furniture. Candles are the leading fire hazard in living rooms.

KITCHEN FIRE NIGHTMARE

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

2 story brick bi level house, dumpster in front yard, large tree on the left side of the house, brown front door, small dead This house destroyed by kitchen fire.

The number one cause of home fires is cooking fires according to the National Fire Protection Association. Unattended cooking was the cause of this kitchen fire that destroyed this entire home.

There are numerous helpful recommendations to help avoid kitchen fires.

* While cooking NEVER leave food unattended.

* Wearing loose sleeves on clothing while cooking is never a good idea.

*Make sure to clean cooking surfaces on a routine basis to eliminate grease buildup.

*Have a routine before leaving the house or going to bed to make sure the stove is turned off.

*DO NOT keep flammable items near the oven.

*Whenever you are cooking utilize the timer to remember the stove is ON.

*DO NOT allow children around the cooking area.

*Always have a fire extinguisher close to the stove.

*Remember to regularly replace the smoke detector batteries.

*Install smoke detectors in the kitchen and near bedrooms in the house.

SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson counties is locally owned and able to respond quickly to any fire damage emergency.

FIRE PREVENTION for the FALL

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

2 story tan frame house, white stone front leading to porch, chain link fence out front, dormer on top floor,right side of ho Fire destroys home in Louisville

As summertime starts to wind down the cooler weather will be here soon. There are several fire prevention tips to keep your property safe.

When you change the clocks backwards in the fall it is a great time to check all of the smoke detectors. It is recommended that each bedroom and every floor of your home have a smoke detector.

As the leaves begin to change and the cool crisp air of autumn sets in it is a good idea to have your heating system cleaned and your chimney inspected.

During the fall months the "family gatherings" around the fire pit become extremely popular. Some key things to keep in mind is to place the fire on level ground a safe distance from your home. Never use gasoline or kerosene to start your fire. It is always best to use dry wood and kindling. Never leave the fire pit unattended or allow children to monitor this fall activity.

House fires can happen quickly. if your home has been damaged by smoke or fire call SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson counties at 502-904-0710.

Emergency Tips in case of a House Fire

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

One story house, green foliage in the background, 2 ladders, debris covering front yard,several green trees Electrical fire in this home started in kitchen

A fire can spread very quickly and can even become life threatening in a matter of two minutes. An entire home can be engulfed in flames within five minutes.

There are several safety precautions you can take in order to ensure that you and your family escape safely.

1) Stay very low to the ground and crawl under the smoke to the nearest exit.

2) Before opening a door make sure and feel the door first to see if it is HOT to the touch. Open it very slowly and be prepared to shut it quickly. If the door seems hot DO NOT OPEN and find another exit.

3)If you can not find an escape, close all doors, cover the cracks under the doors and cover all air vents.

4) Call 911 and explain where you are located within the house.

5) Most importantly if your clothes happen to catch on fire remember the old saying " STOP, DROP and ROLL.

Fires can spread very quickly and being prepared by planning an escape is vital in keeping your family safe.

SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties provides emergency service following fire damage. Our technicians respond quickly and help restore the structure following a fire.

Kitchen stove starts a Blaze

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Soot and fire damaged walls, ceiling, and floors covering a country style kitchen. Fire Damage in Shepherdsville, KY

Shepherdsville, KY Fire

These homeowners stood in shock as the flames started coming out of their home in Shepherdsville, KY. This fire was caused by a faulty oven in the kitchen of this home. Notice in the photo the fire damage along the walls, ceiling, and floors. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived quickly on the scene, taking immediate action to start the restoration process in this home. Thanks to the amazing fire restoration technicians, SERVPRO cleaning products, and the latest technology, this home is now restored. 

If you should need any assistance with Fire & Water Restoration, Bio-Hazardous clean-up, or repairs call the team of professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. 

"Like it never even happened." 

IICRC Technicians

Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Electrical Fire in Bardstown, KY

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Badly fire damaged kitchen with a SERVPRO fire technician wearing a personal protective suit. SERVPRO Strong

Electrical Fire engulfs Home

This homeowner in Bardstown, KY endured a major loss when an electrical fire destroyed their home. Take a look at this photo that illustrates the level of fire damage throughout this home. Notice one of our fire restoration technicians wearing the Personal Protective suit. These suits help protect their clothing, skin, and help stop the spread of soot when they leave. This home was practically down to the bones of the framing when SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived on the scene. After many hours of hard work and dedication this home has come a long way in the fire restoration process. If you should need any assistance call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. 

"We are always here to help." 

Electrical Fire in Mt Washington KY

10/16/2019 (Permalink)

Hallway destroyed by fire, soot and debris covering the house from top to bottom. What remains of a hallway after a devastating fire.

Home Engulfed in Flames

Take a look at this image you can almost smell the smoke through this photo. This shows the devastating damage left behind from an electrical fire. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived at the destination and immediately started the fire restoration process. Our team of highly trained fire restoration technicians worked hard on this house in Mt. Washington, KY to restore it back to its former glory.

Fire Restoration Tips

  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
  • Do not send clothes to dry cleaner, improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.
  • Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery and carpet traffic areas.  

Chemical Fire in Garage covers House in Soot and Debris.

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage in downstairs kitchenette with soot covered areas and drywall hanging down. Fire Damage from Chemical Fire in Garage

Chemicals set Bardstown Home Ablaze 

Take a look at the fire damage in this downstairs kitchenette in Bardstown, KY. This fire was started by chemicals that were improperly disposed of in a garage garbage can. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived on the scene immediately taking precautions, to salvage as much structural material as possible. When dealing with soot it is imperative to not cause further damage by spreading soot throughout the unaffected areas.  

Tips

  • Coat faucets and handles with petroleum jelly.
  • Lay mats in heavy traffic areas to protect flooring.
  • Contact a professional fire restoration service to ensure proper cleanup and prevent further damage.

SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties works hard to serve our community and we want all of our customers to know that, "We are always here to help." 

Fire Extinguisher Residue

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damaged contents covered in fire extinguisher residue used to put out the blazing flames. Contents covered in Fire Extinguisher residue.

Electric Chair causes a Blazing Fire in a Local Retirement Home

Take a look at the contents of this room that have been covered in Fire Extinguisher residue. Thankfully, no one was injured in this fire and all of the residents were escorted to safety. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties quickly arrived on the scene to remove fire damaged materials,treat the affected areas, and restore as many contents and structural materials as possible.This fire was caused by an electric chair malfunction, that was removed and contained, as soon as possible.

Having local emergency responders is a vital part of any community. The local fire department and the staff of the retirement facility, did an amazing job of getting the blaze under control. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties is proud to be a part of the emergency responders within our community. 

"Like it never even happened." ®

Room After Fire Damaged Walls Removed

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

Take a look at this room after the fire restoration technicians removed damaged materials.

Fire in Louisville, KY

Take a look at this room that has been treated, cleaned, and had the fire damaged walls and insulation removed. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties was quick to arrive on the scene. Our highly trained fire technicians worked diligently, restoring and cleaning the damage caused from faulty electrical wires. SERVPRO has the latest technology and equipment to deodorize the area, and to make it look, "Like it never even happened."  

Fire Restoration Tips

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent spreading soot and adding additional damage to the area.
  • Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
  • Do not clean any electrical equipment.
  • Coat chrome faucets, trim, and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil. 

Remember, if you should need any assistance with fire, water, or mold call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.

Bardstown Office catches Fire

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Bardstown Office Fire

Local Business Fire Extinguished just in time

Take a look at the remains of a local Bardstown, KY office after a fire almost destroyed the entire building. Thankfully, no one was injured in the fire and the blaze was extinguished just in time to save important files and documents. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived on the scene and began to gently remove valuable items, files, and materials that could be cleaned and salvaged. Once the items were removed the Fire Restoration was in progress; removing vents, drywall, insulation, cleaning the structure with SERVPRO's signature chemical sponges, and setting up SERVPRO equipment to remove any remaining odors.

Fire Restoration Tips

  • Limit movement in the home/business to prevent soot from spreading.
  • Coat chrome faucets, trim, and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil.
  • Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
  • Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery.
  • Do not clean electrical equipment.
  • Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

If you should need any assistance call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties, "We are always here to help."

Somethings frying in this Kentucky kitchen and it ain't chicken

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Soot on the kitchen walls of a local Kentucky home.

Faulty stove sets ablaze in this Kentucky kitchen

Take a look at these cabinet imprints left behind. Notice in the photo that they have all been marked by soot. This illustration reveals the level of damage a fire causes long after the flames have been put out. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived on the scene and immediately began with the restoration process. Thankfully, no one was injured in this fire, and once the local Fire Department hero's put the flames out, the SERVPRO hero's began making it look, "Like it never even happened."

Fire Cleaning Tips

  • Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery.
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
  • Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.

If you should need any assistance call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.

Newly Weds in Kentucky Devastated by Fire

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

Precious Memories turned into Ashes

Fire in Kentucky Devastates Newly Weds

These homeowners in Kentucky were just married, starting their lives together, and planning their future when a devastating fire destroyed their new home. Returning from your Honeymoon should be exciting, but for this newly wed couple, it was nightmare. All the beautiful wedding gifts were burned up in the fire, along with precious photos, and belongings. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties worked hard with these homeowners to salvage as many precious memories as possible and to give them back the home of their dreams. After some very long hours and true dedication to detail, SERVPRO was able to get these newly weds back into their home. Remember here at SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties we are, "Always here to help."

Fire in Louisville, KY

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Louisville, KY Home engulfed in flames.

Home engulfed in flames in Louisville, KY

This homeowner in Louisville, KY suffered a major loss when an electrical fire engulfed the attic and roof of their home. Notice in the photo that only the framing bones were left. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties has been working hard to help this homeowner rebuild all that was lost in this horrible fire. Although, a loss of this magnitude may take some time to rebuild, SERVPRO is making every effort to make it look, "Like it never even happened."

Fire Restoration Tips

*Limit movement in home to prevent soot particles from spreading on carpet and furniture.

*Place dry towels, blankets, or old linens in high traffic areas to prevent further damage.

*If there is no electric remove food from refrigerators and freezers to prevent odor.

*If it is winter and there is no heat pour RV Antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to prevent frozen pipes.

Fire in Georgetown, KY

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Soot on Walls from Fire in Georgetown, KY

Georgetown, KY Fire causes Major Damage

This home in Georgetown, KY suffered major damage from soot, when a fire sparked from a wire that was probably exposed due to an attic critter. The soot covered the walls, furniture, floors, and almost all of their contents. Notice in the photo how the interior upper walls are covered in soot and the floor in debris. When cleaning soot from a home there are many precautions that need to be implemented.

Preventing the Spread of Soot

Thankfully, SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties had fire restoration technicians on the scene, preventing any further damage to this homeowners belongings. Some basic tips they enforced during this job, saved this homeowner from a total loss. If you should need any assistance with fire restoration, give SERVPRO a call. Remember, "We are always here to help."

Cigarette Improperly Disposed of in Louisville, KY

7/19/2018 (Permalink)

Apartment Fire in Louisville, KY

Apartment Fire caused by Cigarette

This tenant in Louisville, KY almost completely burned down their apartment when they disposed of a cigarette improperly. Take a look at the damage in this photo. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties was quick to arrive to the scene and took immediate action in the fire restoration process. Here at SERVPRO we follow strict guidelines to insure our customers the fastest service and best response possible.

Tips When Dealing with Fire Damage

  • Coat chrome faucets, trim, and appliances with petroleum jelly to prevent soot build-up.
  • Place towels or blankets on high traffic areas to prevent the spread of soot.
  • Do not clean any electrical equipment.
  • Do not try to wash paintings, walls, and carpet as improper cleaning can cause further damage.

Fire in Shepherdsville, KY

6/15/2018 (Permalink)

Overheated Fireplace in Shepherdsville, KY Home

Fireplace catches Shepherdsville, KY Home on Fire

These homeowners were extremely fortunate to have caught this fire before it spread throughout the whole house. Notice in the photo that the back corner of the house suffered the most damage. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties worked hard to restore this home back to its original beauty, provide customer care, and as always work with compassion. Remember here at SERVPRO, "We are always here to help."

Fire Damage Tips

  • Limit movement in home to prevent the spread of soot.
  • Coat faucets, trim, and appliances with petroleum jelly to prevent soot.
  • Do not shampoo carpets or furniture.
  • Do not send clothing to dry cleaners since improper cleaning may set in odor.
  • Do not clean any electrical equipment.

Fire in Mt. Washington, KY

6/14/2018 (Permalink)

Faulty Wires cause extensive Fire damage in Mt. Washington, KY Home

House Fire caused by faulty wires in Mt. Washington, KY

This homeowner suffered a major loss when a faulty wire sparked a massive fire throughout their home. Notice in the photo how the roof was engulfed in flames and the homeowners possessions were left in ashes. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties understands the heartache of losing your home and possessions in devastating fires, such as this. We work hard to make every individual feel valuable, important, and cared for. Our fire technicians are IICRC certified and treat every customer as if they were their own family members. Our community is a big part of who we are, and we stand behind our work and commitments. Here at SERVPRO, we make it look, "Like it never even happened."

Winter Safety Tips

11/28/2017 (Permalink)

Follow these safety tips for fire prevention in your home. 

FURNACE HEATING It’s important that you have your furnace inspected to ensure that it is in good working condition.

• Be sure all furnace controls and emergency shutoffs are in proper working condition.

• Leave furnace repairs to qualified specialists. Do not attempt repairs yourself unless you are qualified.

• Inspect the walls and ceiling near the furnace and along the chimney line. If the wall is hot or discolored, additional pipe insulation or clearance may be required.

• Check the flue pipe and pipe seams. Are they well supported, free of holes, and cracks? Soot along or around seams may be an indicator of a leak.

• Is the chimney solid, with cracks or loose bricks? All unused flue openings should be sealed with solid masonry.

• Keep trash and other combustibles away from the heating system. OTHER FIRE SAFETY TIPS

• Never discard hot ashes inside or near the home. Place them in a metal container outside and well away from the house.

• Never use a range or an oven as a supplemental heating device. Not only is it a safety hazard, it can be a source of potentially toxic fumes.

• If you use an electric heater, be sure not to overload the circuit. Only use extension cords which have the necessary rating to carry the amp load. TIP: Choose an extension cord the same size or larger than the appliance electrical cord.

•Avoid using electrical space heaters in bathrooms, or other areas where they may come in contact with water.

•Frozen water pipes? Never try to thaw them with a blow torch or other open flame, (otherwise the pipe could conduct the heat and ignite the wall structure inside the wall space). Use hot water or a UL labeled device such as a hand held dryer for thawing.

•If windows are used as emergency exits in your home, practice using them in the event fire should strike. Be sure that all the windows open easily. Home escape ladders are recommended.

•If there is a fire hydrant near your home you can assist the fire department by keeping the hydrant clear of snow so in the event it is needed, it can be located. FINALLY . . .

•Be sure every level of your home has a working smoke alarm, and be sure to check and clean it on a monthly basis.

•Plan and practice a home escape plan with your family.

•Contact your local fire department for advice if you have a question on Home Fire Safety. 

Fire Damage In Your Home Or Business? Contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties today to speak to a Mitigation Specialist. 502-904-0710

Fire: Every Second Counts

10/10/2017 (Permalink)

The following is provided by The National Fire Protection Association. 


 In a fire, seconds count. Seconds can mean the difference between residents of our community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy.

That’s why this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme: “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out!” is so important. It reinforces why everyone needs to have an escape plan. Here’s this year’s key campaign messages:

  • Draw a map of your home by using our grid in English (PDF) or Spanish (PDF) with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
  • Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
  • Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
  • Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
  • Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
  • Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.

Contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties today to speak to a Fire Restoration Specialist. 502-904-0710

Fire Place Safety

10/6/2017 (Permalink)

SAFETY COMES FIRST WITH YOUR FIREPLACE

Follow these fireplace safety tips to prevent home fire damage.

Fall has officially started, and before you know it, you will have to light up the fireplace to combat the cold, windy temperatures of the outdoors.  But before your whole family sits in front of the fire, it is crucial you make sure it is safe and secure.  With the luxury and warmth your fireplace brings, also comes the danger of fire and smoke damage to your home.  There are a few steps you can follow to ensure your wood or gas burning fireplace is safe to use.

Start With The Cap

To start your safety inspection of your fireplace, you have to go outside of your home to your chimney.  Make sure the cap that is on top of your chimney is in good condition, and there is nothing around it such as a bird’s nest or debris.  The cap is an essential piece to your chimney because it prevents rain, snow, or wildlife from getting into your home.  It also keeps hot embers emitting from your fireplace from getting onto your roofing.  Your cap needs to be clear so smoke can escape properly from your home.

Check The Damper

After checking the chimney from the outside, go inside your home and inspect your the bottom of your chimney connected to your fireplace.  With a flashlight, check if the damper in your chimney opens, closes, and seals properly.  It is critical that your damper seals well because if not, you will a lose a great amount of heat from your home when your fireplace isn’t in use.  While your damper is open, check the flue for any combustible objects such as animal nests.  The flue needs to be completely clear, so smoke doesn’t come back into your home and cause unnecessary damage.  

Don’t Ignore Your Gas-Burning Fireplace

Although gas fireplaces are low-maintenance, you still need to check some elements occasionally.  Inspect the glass doors for any cracks or latch issues and test the igniter for any malfunctions.  

Smoke or Fire Damage In Your Home? Contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties to speak to a Mitigation Specialist. 502-904-0710

Close Door to Prevent Fire Deaths

7/19/2017 (Permalink)

Close Your Door to Prevent Fire Deaths

One simple action, closing your bedroom door, could save your life.

Tests by UL’s Firefighter Safety Research Institute found that in the event of a fire rooms with an open door showed temperatures over 1,000°F, while a room with a closed door had temperatures at only 100°F. Research also showed that a closed door kept room conditions survivable longer than an open door.

“If you can get out of a burning structure, get out,” explains Steve Kerber, FSRI’s Research Director. “If you can’t, put a closed door between you and the fire to buy yourself valuable time.”

UL states that four decades ago, victims had an average of 17 minutes to escape a burning home after the activation of a smoke alarm. Today, that time has dropped to 3 minutes or less. Homes incorporating more open layouts and lightweight construction materials, and new materials in furnishings, allow fires to spread much quicker.

A closed door gives a layer of protection between you and a fire, which is especially important at night when the household is sleeping. A closed door also helps limit oxygen flow, which may help prevent a fire from growing. When escaping a burning structure, closing the door behind you can help limit property damage.

A reminder from Prevention 1st: In addition to closing your door, make sure you also install and test smoke alarms. Having a working smoke alarm cuts your risk of dying in a fire in half.

4th of July Fire Safety Tips

6/15/2017 (Permalink)

Fourth of July BBQ and Fireworks Safety Tips

June 21st officially kicked off the beginning of summer. With summer already in full swing and many areas throughout the US being in extreme drought conditions and too dry, extra fire safety precautions for this Fourth of July weekend are a MUST! SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties offers these Fire Safety Tips.

• Never use gasoline to start BBQ grills
• Never dump hot coals in dumpsters
• If you are camping, be sure to check the regulations on fires. Many areas may be closed to all fires (including charcoal grills) due to extreme dry conditions
• Never leave a fire unattended and always be sure it is dead out when you leave
• When boating, always wear a Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Device, and always have children closely supervised anytime they are around water
• If you want to include fireworks in your holiday celebration, check where professional displays will be held. Attending a professional fireworks display is the only legal way to celebrate the 4th of July, 
 

Another great resource for Fireworks safety is The National Council on Fireworks Safety. Their article, "Be Fireworks Smart Before, During and After Your Consumer Fireworks Display"  also offers helpful safety tips for firework safety. Remember to check your city or town's laws regarding fire safety and see if they have any rules regarding BBQ’s, cookouts and fireworks during this Fourth of July!

 As always, Contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties for all your Mitigation needs. 502-904-0710

How to Avoid Fires in Bedrooms

6/12/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know that half of all home fire deaths occur in bedrooms? That’s also where most electrical fires start too. However, you can easily prevent bedroom fires by following these essential safety tips:

  • Don’t run electric cords under the bed or carpeting. Don’t trap cords against a wall where heat can build up. Keep cords untangled to allow heat to dissipate. Never overload an extension cord.
  • Always supervise space heaters. Turn them off when leaving the bedroom or going to sleep.
  • Install arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) to prevent fires in electrical switches. They shut off the circuit when an unintentional discharge of electricity occurs in the circuit.
  • Install tamper resistant receptacles (TRRs) in all rooms if you have children. These devices prevent them from inserting foreign objects like hairpins into the outlet.
  • Never put devices that are charging under bedding. Leaving a laptop on the bed can also cause a fire.
  • Only use laboratory-approved electric blankets and warmers. Don’t fold them as it may damage the wiring. Never sleep with an electric blanket turned on and regularly check it for overheating.
  • Keep flammable objects at least three feet away from heat sources, such as space heaters, candles, and electronics.
  • Keep lit candles away from combustible objects like bedding, curtains, and paper. Consider replacing burning candles with battery-operated flameless candles.
  • Use only mattresses that meet the 2007 Federal Mattress Standards.
  • Don’t smoke in bed — you might fall asleep with a lit cigarette in your hand and it could catch fire. Use fire-safe cigarettes as they extinguish more quickly.
  • Install smoke alarms inside and outside each bedroom. Test Smoke Alarms monthly and replace them every 10 years. Replace batteries once a year.
  • Create a fire escape plans. Make sure each room has two exits. Practice your home fire drill with everyone in the home at night and during the day twice a year.

For professional fire damage repair or smoke remediation services, contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson today at 502-904-0710

Know the Facts about Business Fires in Bardstown

6/8/2017 (Permalink)

fire

Know the Facts about Business Fires

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, as many as one in four businesses that suffer some kind of major disaster do not reopen afterward. It’s true, overcoming a major loss is extremely difficult, but with the right restoration company and team on your side, working hand-in-hand with your insurance company, the chance of your Indianapolis-area company surviving is pretty high!

Depending on the size of the fire, and the amount of damage, some businesses that have come to Total Restoration for help have reopened just days after the fire happened. Thanks to innovations in smoke odor removal, fire damage restoration, and cleaning in general, it is possible for crews to start work nearly immediately after the fire department clears the scene, and have things back up and running in no time. Although, again, that all depends on the severity of the fire. But no matter the severity, recovery is possible!

According to the National Fire Prevention Association, U.S. fire departments responded to about 3,300 office property fires per year between 2007 and 2011. Those fires resulted in about $112 million in property damage each year, and most were in business offices – and happened during business hours. However, the good news is the number of business fires was down a whopping 71 percent from 1980 to 2011.

Here are some other stats from the NFPA:

Time of Day

  • Peak time of day for office fires: Noon – 2p.m. (a.k.a. lunch time!)
  • 69% happened between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
  • The 31% that occurred between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. caused 67% of recorded property damage, because they went undetected longer. This also highlights the need for automatic detection equipment and working sprinkler systems.
  • 19% of fires happened on weekends.

Cause of the Business Fires

  • 29% were caused by cooking equipment. However, just 6% of these fires caused actual property damage.
  • Intentionally-set fires caused the most direct property damage – 21%.
  • Electrical equipment is the second leading cause of office fires.
  • Just 2% of office fires start in a concealed space like an attic, in the ceiling, or in another conceals space. However, these fires accounted for 13% of the direct property damage.

Containment & Putting it Out

  • 4 out of 5 fires were confined to the room of origin.
  • 90% of fires were large enough to activate sprinklers, which were effective 88% of the time.
  • Deaths per 1,000 stores were 62% lower in offices equipped with sprinklers compared to those without.

Industrial/Manufacturing Facility Fires

The NFPA also has statistics specific to manufacturing facilities. According to their research, there are about 37,000 fires at industrial or manufacturing facilities each year, resulting in 18 deaths, 279 injuries, and $1 billion in property damage. Heating equipment and stop tools were the leading cause – sparking 28 percent of the fires. Mechanical failure or malfunction caused 24 percent of the fires.

The Best Way to Reduce a Business Interruption Following a Disaster to Your Business is to Plan Ahead for One

As many as 50% of businesses never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson  Counties can help you plan ahead for a disaster to minimize business interruption by developing an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for your business before one strikes. An ERP provides important contact and building information needed to begin a timely mitigation to help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business. Benefits of an ERP include:

-A no cost assessment of your facility which means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.

-A concise profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.

-A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.

-Establishes SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by, when needed.

-Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.

-Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”

Contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties to schedule your FREE Emergency Ready Profile today. 502-904-0710

How Old is Your Smoke Alarm?

10/11/2016 (Permalink)

NC GAZETTE / WBRT RADIO
STAFF REPORT

Sunday, Oct. 9, 2016 — Does your home have a smoke alarm? Do you know how old it is?

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the answer is likely yes: NFPA research shows that most American homes have at least one. If you’re like most people, you probably don’t know with certainty how old it is.

A recent survey conducted by NFPA revealed that only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced. That lack of awareness is a concern for Bardstown Fire Department and NFPA, along with fire departments throughout the country, because smoke alarms don’t last forever.

“Time and again, I’ve seen the life-saving impact smoke alarms can have in a home fire, but I’ve also seen the tragedy that can result when smoke alarms aren’t working properly,” says Todd Spalding, Captain of the Bardstown Fire Department. “That’s why we’re making a concerted effort to educate Bardstown residents about the overall importance of smoke alarms, and that they do have a life limit.”

The NFPA’s national fire alarm code requires smoke alarms be replaced at least every 10 years. Because the public is often unaware of this requirement, many homes have smoke alarms well past their expiration date, which can put the home’s occupants at increased risk.

As the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years, NFPA is promoting this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years,” to better educate the public about the critical importance of knowing how old their smoke alarms are and replacing them once they’re 10 years old. Fire Prevention Week is October 9-15, 2016.

To find out how old your smoke alarm is and its expiration date, simply look on the back of the alarm where the date of manufacture is marked. The smoke alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date (not the date of purchase).

The Bardstown Fire Department also says smoke alarms should be tested monthly, and that batteries should be replaced once a year or when they begin to chirp, signaling that they’re running low.

For more information on smoke alarms and this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign visit www.firepreventionweek.org or contact the Bardstown Fire Department at 502-349-6562.

6 Tips to Help You Survive Living Through a Remodel

7/14/2016 (Permalink)

Remodeling your home can wreak havoc on your allergies. Follow the tips to help you survive.

Allergies will most likely be triggered when construction dust is everywhere in your home during a remodel. Demolition and drywall sanding can cause airborne dust that can be hard to keep under control. If you are planning on living in your home during a remodel, you must be prepared for due diligence and what you are willing to tolerate. Our technicians at SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties will communicate with you on the next steps and what to expect. 

Unless you are tearing your home down to the studs, most people who choose to live in their house during construction can survive the process with careful planning. Don’t wait until the job starts to assign your designated living space and get situated within your home. You also have to be prepared to get ahead of the dust before the remodel begins. Here are the ways I help contain the dust and keep my clients’ homes clean. Use these tips and pass them onto your general contractor.

1. Pack Like You’re Moving: Your house should be clean before the remodel begins. Get rid of everything except the things you want to keep. Pack like you’re moving. Wrap and store belongings such as knick-knacks in boxes, because if construction dust gets on them, they are a nightmare to clean. They will feel like new again once the remodel is complete and they are unpacked.

2. Create a Zone: During a remodel, homeowners and pets must stay away from the construction area. People often forget that a railing is not there anymore and they can accidently fall. For the safety of the homeowner, the work area should be blocked off. We create a zone by building temporary plywood walls with doors on them. We build a separate entrance so that the crew is not crossing paths with the residents and we also blow the dust off the workers clothes with an air hose before and after they enter the home.

3. Zip The Walls: Since the workers have to walk in and out of the room being remodeled during construction, I find that using a zipper instead of a tape entryway is better. We attach plastic sheets to painter poles and place a long zipper at the opening. This creates a re-sealable entrance and exit. The crew can enter the construction area easily through a zipper entrance and it will keep the dust contained in the work area. When the homeowner comes to check out the construction progress, we supply them with a mask and stop work immediately.

4. Set Up a Temporary Kitchen:
When doing a kitchen remodel from scratch, I help homeowners set up a temporary kitchen somewhere else in their home. I have seen people do this in the living room, den or garage. Set up a table with your microwave, toaster oven, toaster, coffee maker and a small refrigerator.

5. Broom Sweep Clean: Each day at the end of the job, we make sure that the rooms that were worked in are clean and spotless. We also clean as we move from room to room after completing the work. We use sawdust with light oil called ZEPs HD Sweeping Compound. This compound stops small dust particles from flying around while sweeping. We put it on the floor before we sweep. Once the dust is swept into a pile, it can be vacuumed with a Shop-Vac or shoveled away.

6. Spray Down The Dust: Once the sawdust in the house has been contained, we put it into buckets. When transferring the buckets to a dumpster or trash truck outside, dust can get everywhere as the workers walk through the house. It can also blow around in the air outside and get on everything, including a neighbors’ car. We take careful steps to contain it by using a fine mist spray pump to apply water on top of the dust after its put into the buckets.

To find out more information about Julie Laughton Design Build, visit her website Julielaughton.com.

Fire Damage: How are we so effective?

7/7/2016 (Permalink)

A professionally trained SERVPRO technician is cleaning the soot off the walls.

How are we so effective at restoring fire damage? Because we follow a carefully perfected process with professionally trained technicians.

Call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties if you have fire, smoke, or soot damage.

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

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

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

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

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

Step 7: Restoration

SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties is here to help. We are a 24 hour emergency service. We will be at your house within 2 hours of your call. We're here to help. Call us 502-957-1956

House Fire in Hillview, Kentucky

4/22/2016 (Permalink)

Charred carpet from where the heater was setting. There was a sleeping child just a few feet away from the heater that was on fire!

SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties were called to a house fire in Hillview, Kentucky. The fire was started by a faulty electrical heater in a child's bedroom. The fire scorched the carpet and smoke damage was in the insulation and  on the whole upper level of the home.

Our team quickly arrived on the scene to begin the cleanup process.  We first had to remove the smoke damaged insulation and the contents to be cleaned. Then we removed the carpet and padding to be replaced.

Just after a few short weeks, we had it restored back to new again.

If your home or business suffers a fire, please call SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties to help you. We are in your neighborhood and will be there within 2 hours of receiving your call!

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