Missouri Storm Survival: Building Your Emergency Storm Survival Kit

9/12/2023 (Permalink)

Having a well-thought-out emergency plan can significantly enhance your preparedness for unpredictable storms.

The vast skies of Missouri often bring awe-inspiring beauty, but they can also unleash powerful storms that demand preparedness and resilience. As a homeowner or property owner, having a well-equipped storm survival kit and an emergency plan can make all the difference in keeping your loved ones and property safe. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the steps to create a practical storm survival kit tailored to the unique challenges of Missouri's weather patterns.

Understanding the Missouri Storm Landscape

Before assembling your survival kit, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the types of storms and emergencies that can occur in the area:

Tornadoes: Missouri is part of "Tornado Alley," where tornadoes are a real threat. Understand tornado alerts, signs, and designated safe areas.

Severe Thunderstorms: Thunderstorms often bring lightning, heavy rain, hail, and strong winds. Be prepared for power outages and potential flooding.

Flash Floods: Sudden heavy rainfall can lead to flash floods, especially in low-lying areas and near creeks and rivers.

Building Your Storm Survival Kit

Your storm survival kit should contain essential items to sustain your family and property during emergencies:

Basic Supplies: Include non-perishable food, bottled water, a manual can opener, and a first aid kit.

Emergency Communication: Have a battery-powered or hand-crank emergency radio to stay informed about weather updates and alerts.

Lighting and Power: Pack flashlights, extra batteries, and portable chargers to keep your devices powered.

Personal Hygiene: Include sanitation supplies such as moist towelettes, hand sanitizer, and personal hygiene items.

Medications: Keep a supply of prescription medications, along with a basic first aid kit.

Important Documents: Safeguard copies of essential documents like identification, insurance policies, and medical records.

Clothing and Blankets: Pack extra clothing, sturdy shoes, and blankets to stay warm and dry.

Cash: Include cash in small denominations, as ATMs and card readers may not be functional during power outages.

Creating an Emergency Plan

In addition to your survival kit, develop a comprehensive emergency plan:

Safe Spaces: Identify the safest areas in your home for different types of storms. A basement or storm shelter is ideal.

Emergency Contacts: Maintain a list of emergency contacts, including family members, friends, and local authorities.

Communication Plan: Establish a communication plan to keep in touch with family members during emergencies, especially if separated.

Evacuation Routes: Know multiple evacuation routes and meeting points in case you need to leave your home quickly.

Practice Drills: Regularly practice emergency drills with your family to ensure everyone knows what to do.

Staying Informed

Stay informed about weather forecasts and alerts through various means:

Weather Apps: Download reliable weather apps to receive real-time alerts and updates.

NOAA Weather Radio: Invest in a NOAA Weather Radio for accurate and immediate weather information.

Local News: Tune in to local news channels for the latest weather reports.

Final Thoughts

Building an effective storm survival kit and having a well-thought-out emergency plan can significantly enhance your preparedness for the unpredictable storms that Missouri may bring. By tailoring your kit to the city's unique storm landscape and regularly reviewing and updating your plan, you'll be better equipped to weather any storm that comes your way. Taking these proactive steps ensures the safety of your loved ones and property, allowing you to face storms with confidence and resilience.

Dos and Don'ts of Cleaning a Gas Range Safely

8/13/2023 (Permalink)

Keeping your gas range clean is essential not only for maintaining its appearance but also for ensuring its safe and efficient operation.

Keeping your gas range clean is essential not only for maintaining its appearance but also for ensuring its safe and efficient operation. However, cleaning a gas range requires specific precautions to minimize the risk of accidents or damage. In this blog post, we will provide you with valuable dos and don'ts to help you clean your gas range safely and effectively. By following these guidelines, you can maintain a clean and well-functioning gas range while prioritizing safety in your home or property.

Dos

Read the Manufacturer's Instructions:

Before starting the cleaning process, carefully read the manufacturer's instructions that came with your gas range. Each model may have specific cleaning recommendations, so familiarize yourself with them to avoid any potential issues.

Disconnect the Gas Supply:

Always turn off the gas supply to your range before cleaning it. This step is crucial for your safety. Locate the gas valve behind or beneath the range and ensure it is fully closed to prevent any accidental gas leaks.

Wait for the Range to Cool Down:

Allow your gas range to cool down completely before cleaning. Hot surfaces can cause burns or injuries. Wait at least an hour after cooking before you begin cleaning to ensure the range is safe to touch.

Remove Grates, Burner Caps, and Knobs:

Start by removing the grates, burner caps, and knobs from the range. These components are usually removable and can be cleaned separately. Soak them in warm, soapy water to remove grease and stains. Use a non-abrasive sponge or brush to scrub them gently. Rinse thoroughly and let them dry completely before reattaching.

Use Mild Cleaning Solutions:

When cleaning the surface of your gas range, opt for mild cleaning solutions. Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that can damage the finish. Instead, use a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap. Apply the solution to a soft cloth or sponge and gently wipe the surface, paying extra attention to areas with stubborn stains.

Clean the Burners:

Clean the burners regularly to ensure efficient gas flow and prevent clogging. Use a soft brush or a toothbrush to remove debris or food particles from the burner ports. For tougher stains, use a vinegar and water solution to soak the burners, then scrub gently and rinse thoroughly before drying.

Don'ts

Use Excessive Water:

Avoid excessive use of water or any liquid near the gas valves, ignition switches, or electrical components of your gas range. Moisture can cause damage and affect the range's functionality. Instead, wring out your cleaning cloth or sponge thoroughly to avoid dripping water on sensitive areas.

Scrub with Abrasive Materials:

Never use abrasive materials like steel wool, scouring pads, or harsh brushes on the surface of your gas range. These can scratch the finish, making it more prone to stains and damage. Stick to non-abrasive sponges or soft cloths to protect the range's appearance.

Neglect Proper Ventilation:

Ensure that your kitchen is well-ventilated while cleaning the gas range. Open windows or turn on the exhaust fan to remove any fumes or odors that may arise from cleaning products. Proper ventilation will improve air quality and prevent any potential health hazards.

Ignore Regular Maintenance:

Cleaning your gas range is an essential part of its maintenance, but don't overlook other maintenance tasks. Regularly inspect and clean the gas burners, check for gas leaks, and ensure the range's knobs and controls are in good working condition. If you notice any issues, contact a professional for assistance.

Cleaning a gas range can be a straightforward task when you follow the dos and don'ts of safe cleaning practices. By adhering to the guidelines mentioned above, you can maintain a clean and safe gas range while extending its lifespan. Remember to prioritize safety, follow manufacturer instructions, and perform regular maintenance to keep your gas range operating efficiently. A clean gas range not only enhances the aesthetics of your kitchen but also provides a safe cooking environment for you and your family.

Water Damage in Arnold, MO: Who to Call for Prompt Restoration Services

7/14/2023 (Permalink)

Experiencing water damage in your home or business can be a stressful and overwhelming situation. When faced with such an emergency in Arnold, MO, it's crucial to know who to call for professional help. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of choosing the right water damage restoration company in Arnold, specifically highlighting the expertise and services provided by SERVPRO of Arnold/North Jefferson County. By understanding the benefits of relying on a trusted local restoration company, you can ensure swift and efficient restoration of your property.

Local Expertise and Fast Response

When water damage occurs in your home or business in Arnold, MO, it's essential to work with a restoration company that has local expertise and can provide a rapid response. SERVPRO of Arnold/North Jefferson County specializes in serving the Arnold community, offering a deep understanding of the area's unique challenges and requirements. Their proximity enables them to arrive quickly at your property, minimizing further damage and starting the restoration process promptly.

Comprehensive Water Damage Restoration Services

Choosing a restoration company that offers a wide range of services is essential to address the various aspects of water damage effectively. SERVPRO of Arnold/North Jefferson County provides comprehensive water damage restoration services in Arnold, MO. Their trained professionals have the expertise and equipment to handle all stages of the restoration process, from water extraction and drying to dehumidification, cleaning, and restoration. By relying on a single company for all your restoration needs, you can streamline the process and ensure consistent quality throughout.

Advanced Equipment and Techniques

Effective water damage restoration requires the use of advanced equipment and techniques. SERVPRO of Arnold/North Jefferson County utilizes state-of-the-art equipment, such as powerful extraction tools, high-speed air movers, and industrial-grade dehumidifiers. Their skilled technicians employ proven techniques to ensure thorough drying and minimize the risk of secondary damage, such as mold growth. By leveraging advanced technology, they can expedite the restoration process and restore your property to its pre-damage condition efficiently.

Insurance Assistance and Documentation

Navigating the insurance claims process can be daunting, especially when dealing with water damage. SERVPRO of Arnold/North Jefferson County understands the complexities involved and can provide valuable assistance. Their team works closely with insurance companies, helping you navigate the paperwork, documentation, and claims process. By leveraging their expertise, you can ensure accurate and timely filing, maximizing your chances of a successful claim.

Trained and Certified Professionals

When selecting a water damage restoration company, it's important to ensure they have a team of trained and certified professionals. SERVPRO of Arnold/North Jefferson County employs highly skilled technicians who undergo rigorous training and hold industry certifications. Their expertise and knowledge allow them to assess the extent of the damage accurately, devise effective restoration plans, and execute them with precision. By entrusting your property to trained professionals, you can have confidence in the quality of the restoration work.

When water damage occurs in your home or business in Arnold, MO, it's crucial to act swiftly and call a trusted restoration company. SERVPRO of Arnold/North Jefferson County offers the expertise, experience, and comprehensive services needed to restore your property efficiently. With their local presence, rapid response, advanced equipment, insurance assistance, and certified professionals, they are the ideal choice for water damage restoration in Arnold. By relying on their reliable services, you can have peace of mind knowing that your property is in capable hands.

Fortifying Your Business: A Comprehensive Guide to Preparing for Flood Damage

6/29/2023 (Permalink)

Being prepared for flooding is essential to ensuring your business is safe and prepared.

As a business owner, it is essential to proactively plan for potential risks and protect your business from various hazards. One such threat that can have a significant impact is flood damage. Flooding can cause severe disruptions to operations, financial losses, and damage to property and inventory. However, by taking proactive measures and implementing a comprehensive preparedness plan, you can minimize the impact of flood damage on your business. In this blog, we will discuss practical steps to help you prepare your business for potential flooding and ensure business continuity.

Understand the Flood Risk

Begin by assessing the flood risk in your business's location. Research historical flood data, consult local authorities, and identify flood-prone areas in your vicinity. Understanding the specific risks will allow you to tailor your preparedness efforts accordingly.

Review Insurance Coverage

Regularly review your business insurance policy, paying special attention to the coverage for flood damage. Many standard commercial insurance policies do not include flood coverage, so it may be necessary to obtain separate flood insurance. Evaluate your coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions to ensure adequate protection for your business assets.

Develop a Business Continuity Plan

Create a comprehensive business continuity plan that includes protocols for flood-related emergencies. Identify critical functions, key personnel, and essential equipment required to sustain operations during and after a flood event. Establish communication channels, backup systems, and alternate locations if needed. Regularly test and update the plan to address changing circumstances.

Protect Important Documents

Safeguard vital business documents, such as contracts, licenses, financial records, and customer information. Store digital copies in secure, off-site locations or use cloud storage solutions to ensure data accessibility even in the event of physical damage.

Maintain Emergency Supplies

Stock up on essential emergency supplies, such as first aid kits, flashlights, batteries, and portable chargers. Additionally, consider having supplies of sandbags, tarps, plastic sheeting, and water pumps on hand to mitigate potential flood damage.

Secure and Elevate Equipment

Secure and elevate critical equipment, machinery, and electronics to minimize the risk of damage from floodwaters. Move these items to higher floors or raise them on platforms or pallets. Create a checklist to ensure that all necessary equipment is properly secured before a flood event.

Implement Protective Measures

Consider installing flood barriers, backflow prevention devices, and sump pumps to prevent or minimize water intrusion. Waterproof vulnerable areas, such as basements or lower levels, and seal any cracks or openings in walls or foundations. Regularly inspect and maintain drainage systems to ensure their proper functioning.

Educate and Train Employees

Conduct training sessions to educate employees about flood preparedness and response protocols. Train them on evacuation procedures, emergency contacts, and safety measures. Encourage employees to report any signs of potential water damage or leaks promptly.

By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly enhance your business's resilience and minimize the impact of flood damage. Being prepared, having a solid plan in place, and prioritizing the safety of your employees and assets will ensure that your business can quickly recover and resume normal operations in the aftermath of a flood event. Remember, investing time and resources into flood preparedness is a crucial aspect of protecting your business and its future success.

Containment is Key: How To Prevent the Spread of Mold During Remediation

5/14/2023 (Permalink)

Containment is a critical component of any mold remediation project.

As a professional restoration company with years of experience in the field, we understand the importance of containing mold during the remediation process. Containment is critical to prevent the spread of mold to other areas of the building and ensure that the remediation process is effective. Here are some of the techniques we use to contain mold during remediation.

Isolation of Affected Area

The first step in containing mold is to isolate the affected area. This involves setting up physical barriers to prevent mold spores from spreading to other areas of the building. These barriers can be made of plastic sheeting or other materials and are designed to create a sealed-off workspace.

Negative Air Pressure

Once the affected area has been isolated, we use negative air pressure to further contain the mold. Negative air pressure involves using special equipment to create a vacuum that sucks the air out of the affected area and prevents mold spores from escaping. This technique helps to ensure that mold is contained within the workspace and does not spread to other areas of the building.

Air Filtration

Air filtration is also an important technique for containing mold during remediation. We use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to capture mold spores and other contaminants in the air. These filters are capable of capturing particles as small as 0.3 microns and help to ensure that the air in the affected area is clean and safe to breathe.

Cleaning and Disinfection

Once the mold has been contained, the next step is to clean and disinfect the affected area. This involves using specialized equipment and cleaning solutions to remove mold spores and other contaminants from surfaces and materials. We use a variety of techniques, including wiping, scrubbing, and sanding, depending on the type and severity of the mold growth.

Proper Disposal

Proper disposal of contaminated materials is also critical for containing mold during remediation. We ensure that all contaminated materials are properly bagged and sealed before they are removed from the affected area. These materials are then disposed of in accordance with local regulations to prevent the spread of mold to other areas of the building or the environment.

Post-Remediation Testing

Finally, it is important to conduct post-remediation testing to ensure that the mold has been successfully contained and removed. This involves using specialized equipment to test the air and surfaces in the affected area for mold spores and other contaminants. If the tests show that the area is clean and free of mold, then the remediation process is considered complete.

Overall, containment is a critical component of any mold remediation project. It helps to prevent the spread of mold to other areas of the building and ensures that the remediation process is effective. At our company, we take containment seriously and use a variety of techniques, including isolation, negative air pressure, air filtration, cleaning and disinfection, proper disposal, and post-remediation testing, to ensure that mold is properly contained and removed. By taking these measures, we can ensure that our mold remediation projects are completed safely and effectively.

6 Steps to Take If You Smell Natural Gas in Your Home or Business

4/16/2023 (Permalink)

If you smell natural gas in your home or business, the first and most important step is to evacuate the building immediately.

Natural gas is a valuable energy source used in many homes and businesses for heating, cooking, and other purposes. However, if you smell natural gas in your home or business, it can be a sign of a gas leak, which can be dangerous if not addressed promptly. In this blog, we'll cover some important steps to take if you smell natural gas in your home or business.

Step 1: Evacuate the Building

If you smell natural gas in your home or business, the first and most important step is to evacuate the building immediately. Natural gas is highly flammable and can ignite if exposed to an ignition source, such as a spark from a light switch or a running appliance. Even a small spark can cause a large explosion, so it's important to get everyone out of the building as quickly and safely as possible.

Step 2: Call the Gas Company

Once you're safely outside, call the gas company or emergency services immediately. In many areas, the gas company has a 24-hour emergency hotline that you can call to report gas leaks. They will send a qualified technician to investigate the source of the gas leak and take the necessary steps to repair it.

Step 3: Don't Use Electrical Devices

Do not use any electrical devices or appliances, including light switches, telephones, or cell phones, while you're inside the building or in the vicinity of the suspected gas leak. Any spark or flame can ignite the gas, causing an explosion or fire. It's important to wait until you're safely outside the building to make any calls or use any electrical devices.

Step 4: Don't Smoke

If you or anyone else in the building is a smoker, do not light any cigarettes, cigars, or other smoking materials. Smoking materials can also ignite the gas, causing an explosion or fire.

Step 5: Don't Try to Find the Source of the Leak

Do not try to locate the source of the gas leak yourself. Natural gas is odorless and colorless, so it's difficult to detect without specialized equipment. Leave the job to the qualified technicians from the gas company, who have the training and equipment to locate and repair gas leaks safely.

Step 6: Don't Return to the Building

Do not return to the building until the gas company or emergency services have given you the all-clear. They will inspect the building and make sure that it's safe to re-enter before allowing anyone to return.

In conclusion, if you smell natural gas in your home or business, it's important to act quickly and follow these steps to keep yourself and others safe. Evacuate the building immediately, call the gas company or emergency services, don't use electrical devices or smoking materials, don't try to find the source of the leak, and don't return to the building until it's been inspected and declared safe. By following these steps, you can help prevent a potentially dangerous situation from turning into a disaster.

What To Do If Your Toilet Overflows - 5 Steps To Take

3/16/2023 (Permalink)

Steps to take when you have a leaking toilet.

If you're reading this, it means you've either just experienced a toilet overflow or are about to. Either way, this is an unfortunate and stressful situation that can be avoided with proper preparation and safety precautions. Here's what you need to know:

Don't Flush

If you have an overflowing toilet, don't flush it. The reason for this is that if you do, the water level will continue to rise and overflow even further.

Locate The Flapper

Next, you need to locate the flapper. The flapper is usually located at the bottom of the tank. If you're not sure where it is, look for a small piece of rubber or plastic that covers up an opening in the tank and moves when water flows through it. The flapper exists to regulate the amount of water that enters the bowl when you flush.

When the flapper is pushed closed, it closes off any gaps between itself and other parts of your system so water can't escape through them anymore. This will stop any more overflow from happening until the cause of the overflow is remedied.

Turn Off The Water Supply

If your toilet has overflowed and is still overflowing, turn off the water supply to the toilet. You can do this by locating a valve under or behind the tank of your toilet and turning it clockwise until it is completely shut off. If you cannot find this valve, turn off the main valve at your home's main water line coming into your house, usually located near where all of your plumbing meets.

If you cannot turn off either type of valve yourself, call a plumber immediately!

Secure The Float

Next, you need to secure the float. The float is a small plastic or metal device that floats on top of the water in your tank and regulates its level. If it sticks, it can cause your water level to rise above normal and cause an overflow situation. To prevent the toilet from overflowing further, secure the float to stay in place. This will prevent water from filling the tank.

Locate The Cause of the Overflow

If your toilet is overflowing, the first thing you should do is locate the cause of the overflow. There are several things that could be causing it, clogs or leaks.

If there's a clog in your pipes, this can cause water to back up into your toilet bowl and overflow onto your bathroom floor. The best way to check for clogs is by using an auger or snake tool and pushing it down through one side of your drainpipe until it reaches the other end--if there's nothing obstructing it, then you're good! If there's something stuck inside, the snake can help you remove the clog.

Leaks from broken pipes or fixtures can also lead to overflows if they aren't fixed right away. These often occur near faucets or toilets themselves. If you notice stains on the walls or flooring near your toilet, there is a possibility of a water leak nearby. If you suspect you have a leak, it is important to mitigate the damage as quickly as possible.

If your toilet overflows, act fast! Don't panic, but do take immediate action to stop the water from flowing. If your home or business has suffered from water damage due to an overflowing toilet, don't hesitate and give our SERVPRO of Arnold/North Jefferson County team a call today! Our team can quickly take care of all your water damage cleanup needs.

What To Do if You Experience Commercial Water Damage

2/8/2023 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes to disrupt business, give SERVPRO of Arnold/North Jefferson County a call!

Water damage is an unfortunate part of doing business, but it's something that all commercial property owners must deal with at some point. From the small drip under your sink to a major flood from a burst pipe, water damage can spell disaster for your business. If you're lucky enough to recognize the signs of commercial water damage before it becomes too serious, here are some steps you can take:

Shut off the water. 

First, it is important to identify the source of water damage. It is crucial to identify this in order to prevent future damage. The sooner you can identify the source, the better.

In the event that your business suffers commercial water damage, you’ll need to shut off the water. This can be done by either shutting off the water at the source or shutting off the entire water supply. If you’re unable to locate the main water valve, call a plumber.

Contact your insurance provider to file a claim.

If you are in this situation, the first thing you should do is contact your insurance provider. If you have a business interruption policy and/or flood policy on file, those will need to be filed as well.

Document damaged property.

It's important to document and record the water damage as soon as possible. This will help you speed up the claims process, get a fair amount for your claim, and avoid any disputes with your insurance company.

The claims process is a series of questions that you’ll have to answer, and it will be easier if you have all your paperwork together. It is important that you document every piece of damaged property and inventory in writing, with as much detail as possible. A professional commercial water damage company will take photos or videos of the affected area.

If something gets destroyed in your business after a disaster like Hurricane Florence, try to remember all the details about what happened: when was it lost? Where was it stored? What can replace this item now? Do you have any backups for it?

Call a restoration professional.

If you find yourself in this situation, the best thing to do is call an expert. Restoration professionals have the experience and tools to assess the damage, get it repaired, and help with insurance claims. They can also assist with cleanup, sanitization, and reconstruction.

Preserve your business's personal property.

It's important to preserve your business's personal property as soon as you can. This may be difficult or impossible depending on the extent of the damage, but if it's at all possible, try to do so. If you don't have the resources to protect your belongings, take pictures of them instead! This will allow you to document what was damaged and help determine what needs replacing when insurance comes into play.

Act quickly.

Once you’ve determined that there is water damage, it’s important to act quickly. By shutting off the water main and calling a professional restoration company, you can stop further damage from occurring.

Some steps to take:

• Call your insurance provider immediately—they will know what needs to be done in order for them to cover your expenses.
• Call a restoration professional who can assess the extent of the damage and give recommendations on how best to proceed.
• Document everything that is damaged or otherwise affected by this event (photos are helpful).
• Preserve personal property as much as possible by removing furniture or other items from the area where water has pooled so they don't get ruined too!

The final takeaway is that it’s important to act quickly and get a professional on the job as soon as possible. If your business suffers from a water damage event, don't hesitate and give our SERVPRO of Arnold/North Jefferson County team a call today!

Does Mold Usually Grow Where a Faucet Leaks?

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

Regularly check under sinks for water buildup. Leaking supply lines are one of the main causes of mold damage.

Mold Growth 101: The Basics of Mold Damage

Mold is one of the most common household problems. It's a fungus that can grow in areas where there's moisture and food, such as under sinks or around leaky pipes. If you notice mold growing in your home or business, it could be from a leaking faucet or pipe under the sink. In this article we'll discuss how to tell if there is mold in your house and why it's important to remove it immediately!

Mold grows in areas that are wet

Molds are fungi that grow in damp and moist areas. They usually thrive in places where there is an accumulation of moisture, such as basements or bathrooms. Mold can grow on any type of surface, including drywall. 

Mold may even grow in unexpected places—you might find it growing behind furniture or in an area where you never thought it could survive! It's important to keep an eye out for mold no matter where it appears so that you can remove it quickly before any serious damage occurs.

Mold spores are everywhere in our environment—you just need some moisture and food source to start growing new colonies!

A dripping faucet can contribute to the growth of mold. When water slowly drips onto a surface such as wood or wallboard over a period, it creates the perfect environment for mold growth. The water seeps into cracks and crevices, creating dark spots on walls or floors that are often mistaken for dirt or mildew. In fact, these spots may be black or green patches caused by mold growing inside them! While some molds are green or black, others are pink or brown. Some molds have fuzzy edges, while others are flat and smooth.

Mold can grow within 48 hours

Mold can grow in as little as 48 hours, especially if the water damage is a continuous leak. As soon as you notice a leak, place a bucket under it and call an emergency water mitigation company. Mold spreads quickly, so it's important to get rid of it before it has a chance to spread throughout your home.

Mold needs moisture to grow, so it will start growing when you have a leak or any other source of moisture in your home. It can appear anywhere in your house—even if there are no leaks nearby!

Who Can Remove Mold from My House?

The first step to removing mold from your home is identifying where it's growing. Never attempt to remove mold on your own. If you've found that a sink or shower has been leaking and has left behind damp areas of the wall, call in professionals who have been trained in mold removal to help you assess the extent of damage and determine whether there are any other areas of concern.

Molds can grow in many places, but they will usually gravitate toward areas that are moist or humid. It is important to clean up any water leaks quickly so that the mold does not have a chance to grow. If your home or business has suffered from a mold infestation, don’t hesitate, and give our SERVPRO team a call today!

How To Prevent a House Fire

12/14/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms have a limited lifespan, usually 10 years.

House fires are one of the most devastating and life-threatening events that can happen to you. The good news is that they're avoidable if you take some simple steps. In this post, we'll outline how to prevent your house from catching fire. We'll also discuss what circumstances increase your risk of burning down—and what may be done to lower it again. Let's get started!

Fire Hazards

Fire hazards are everywhere in the home. If you can't see them, they may still be present and waiting to ignite. The following are some of the most common fire hazards in houses:

• Electricity – Electrical wiring that's not up to code or power cords running under rugs can result in electrical fires.
• Smoke detectors – Many homes have smoke detectors with dead batteries or missing battery covers. These aren't working as well as they should be, putting lives at risk when a fire breaks out.
• Candles – Candles cause over 12 percent of all residential fires each year (according to NFPA). It only takes a few moments for a candle flame to spread across your living room carpeting and send everything up in flames!

Another thing you can do to prevent many house fires is keep lighters and matches away from kids. Lighters, along with other sources of ignition such as candles and fireplaces, are a major cause of residential fires in the United States. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that two thirds of these fires are caused by smoking materials or careless use of candles—and that's just one source!

If you smoke indoors (or if anyone else who lives in your home does), please don't leave lighters or matches within reach of children. If kids come over to play at your house, make sure they don't have access to any matches or lighters that are lying around—no matter how safe they think their parents might be! This is especially important during the winter when everyone's wearing gloves anyway.

You should also store flammable liquids like gasoline in metal cans with screw-on lids instead of plastic bottles because metal will not burst into flames as easily as plastic if there is an explosion from static electricity buildup or friction caused by moving parts inside them (like pumps).

Install Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke detectors should be installed on every floor of your home, including the basement and attic. Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed near sleeping areas, such as bedrooms, or in the garage where cars are parked.

Smoke alarms have a limited lifespan, usually 10 years. After that time, they must be replaced because they may not work properly any longer. The same is true for carbon monoxide detectors; although they're not required to be replaced as often as smoke alarms are — typically every 7-10 years — it's still wise to check them regularly to ensure they're working correctly so you can get an early warning in case of fire or CO poisoning before it becomes too late to escape safely.

Build and Practice a Fire Safety Plan

Practice your fire safety plan every month. You can practice with your children, pets, and neighbors or anyone else who lives in the house or might be visiting. Don't miss opportunities to remind people of what they should do. For example: If you're cooking a meal that involves grease or oil on the stovetop and someone is near the stove, warn them about it! Make sure everyone knows where the master key is kept if there's an emergency (either lock their door from outside or make sure someone else has a copy).

By taking the time and effort to learn about the most common causes of house fires, you can help protect your home from being destroyed by fire. We hope this article has given you some valuable information on how to prevent a fire in your Arnold, MO home, so that when one does happen, it doesn’t destroy everything. If you do have a fire in your home, know that there are steps for first responders who will come help save those inside as well as their homes. Take care of yourself and others around you so that we can all live safely in our communities without fear of tragedy striking again tomorrow. If you do experience a fire, call SERVPRO of Arnold/Jefferson County to restore your home!