Understanding the Behavior of SMOKE

4/22/2024 (Permalink)

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior of smoke. There are two different types of smoke-wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. The SERVPRO of Tupelo Professionals are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, The SERVPRO of Tupelo Professionals will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows the SERVPRO of Tupelo Professionals to focus on saving your precious items.

The SERVPRO of Tupelo Professionals know smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following are additional facts you may not know about smoke.

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different types of Smoke

• Wet Smoke (Plastic and Rubber) - Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean
• Dry Smoke (Paper and Wood) – Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.
• Protein Fire Residue (Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire) – Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
• Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace Puff Backs) – While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.
• Other Types (Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue) – Special loss situations require special care.

The SERVPRO of Tupelo Professionals are trained to handle even the toughest losses. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact the SERVPRO of Tupelo Franchise Professionals to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

How to Eliminate Odor after Fire Damage

4/4/2023 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Tupelo, SERVPRO of Amory Aberdeen & West Point, for your fire damage restoration needs. 662-690-6502

Fire damage often encompasses both remediation and odor control.  Call SERVPRO of Tupelo, SERVPRO of Amory Aberdeen & West Point 24/7.  Our team can handle all aspects of the situation at hand.

SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration Incorporates Odor Control

Housefires require extensive cleanup. Most of the home needs to be carefully sorted into salvageable and non-salvageable materials. 

Charred materials relating to structure or belongings are thrown away in large dumpsters, while replacement materials must be sourced and installed. These processes can be difficult to manage alongside work and other commitments, which is why most homeowners rely on a professional service to help with:

• Fire Restoration
• Fire debris removal
• Fire damage restoration

One ever-present challenge of fire damage restoration is odor control. The rule of thumb when it comes to odor control is to eliminate all 

odor-causing materials. These can include porous parts of the building assembly or the removal of smoke soils from appliances and furniture. General deodorization steps can help curtail odors, but in some situations, the smell remains after completing these tasks. 

Step-by-step odor removal

• Removing non-salvageable charred materials from the home and preventing the spread of ash by sealing items in polyethylene bags.
• Saturating remaining charred materials with water-based deodorants using direct spray application.
• Cleaning parts of the home that are most heavily contaminated with soot and smoke residues before drying the structure and surfaces.

Sometimes odors can remain after completing removal steps. These situations often result from odor particles reaching confined areas. The solution to stubborn malodors in confined spaces is to provide assisted ventilation using venting fans or air movers. If that fails, deploying an activated oxygen unit or fumigating the entire structure can eliminate smoke odors for good. 

Odors come from various sources, making it difficult to pinpoint a single method solution. SERVPRO technicians rely on multiple restoration methods to control odors and often repeat the same process several times to ensure that odors are managed appropriately. 

Fighting odor requires expertise and equipment. 

Contact SERVPRO of Tupelo, SERVPRO of Amory Aberdeen & West Point, for your fire damage restoration needs. 

662-690-6502

4TH of July is Almost Here! Practice Firework Safety to Prevent Home Damage and Bodily Injury.

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Call your local SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

Celebrating the summer brings gatherings, food, and on holidays - fireworks. While the lights of a backyard firework show or small handheld sparkler can be fun there are dangers underneath the lights. When celebrating Independence Day, The National Fire Protection Association estimates sparklers account for more than 28% of emergency room visits due to fireworks, and of nearly half of all fires reported 47% were started on July 4th due to fireworks.

If misused, fireworks can be dangerous. Professionals disagree on the use of personal use of fireworks. Some state they should only be used by trained pyrotechnicians and others tout a use cautiously approach. HOA’s have weighed in on the matter usually erring on the side of caution and banning them from neighborhoods altogether.

The firework-related injury stats can understandably give HOA’s cause for concern. Fireworks cause an average of nearly 18,500 reported fires across the country each year. Smaller hand-held sparklers account for more than 25% of emergency room fireworks injuries. The average sparkler is 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s 300 degrees hotter than what is required to melt glass, at 900 degrees Fahrenheit!

Other homeowner concerns about the fire from fireworks include:

• Roof shingles
• Grass and landscaping
• Siding
• Vehicles filled with gasoline in the driveway or street
• Fencing
• Decks

If you do decide to have a home firework show please do so safely. Here are some tips to help prevent fire from ruining your home celebration:

• Light fireworks on pavement or concrete a safe distance away from your home
• Light fireworks one at a time
• NEVER attempt to relight a dud firework
• Keep hair and loose clothing tied back
• Keep a bucket of water close and a primed water hose ready

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to see a display put on by professionals. This allows you to enjoy the show with little worry of bodily harm or property damage. SERVPRO wants you to enjoy the festivities safely with friends and family. 

Happy Independence Day!

www.nfpa.org

Types of Cleaning- For Your Fire Damaged Personal Property

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

Call your SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

At SERVPRO, we use every method and tool in our inventory to restore everything possible after a fire occurs.

Cleaning Personal Property After Fire Damage

When possible, restoring a Mississippi resident’s property after a fire is not just cost-efficient. It also helps lessen the personal loss to a family still dealing with watching that fire race through their home.

SERVPRO can restore most fire damage to the personal property of homeowners if flames did not heavily scorch it. Our teams use six methods to clean and restore personal property based on the type and level of damage, and the material that makes up the damaged item.

Wet Wiping

Technicians use this cleaning method for moderate-to-heavy soot and smoke residues. They use the same cloths and sponges, but also water or a mild cleaning solution. It is also our preferred choice for the property we cannot saturate with water or cleaners. In some cases, they use brushes for a better effect to remove much of the residues.

Dry Wiping

This is the first step our technicians take with almost every item. They use dusting cloths and sponges for dry surfaces with non-greasy, light-to-medium soot residues, usually a powder. If the layer of soil is very thick, they may use a commercial grade vacuum to remove it from the surface. Dry wiping is useful for other types of damage before our teams begin using other methods.

Foam Cleaning

This is similar to spray and wipe, but our teams use a pump-up bottle to force air into the liquid and apply foam. The method uses much less moisture while still applying a large amount of cleaning agent. It is our choice for cleaning upholstered furniture since too much liquid can cause the fabric to shrink and pull away from the frame.

Spray and Wipe

SERVPRO technicians use a spray bottle filled with water or a cleaner for more control over how much they use for cleaning an item. It is our first choice with curtains and drapes when there is a risk of the color fading, or running down the surface and onto carpets or floors.

Abrasive Cleaning

When the soot covers rough surfaces, like rock and marble, our technicians use a thicker cleaning agent and a variety of brushes to remove residues. For metal surfaces, they may have to use steel wool rather than a brush.

Immersion Cleaning

This is our choice for items with very thick residues and when other methods do not work. We immerse them in a tank containing water or a cleaning agent and then use sound waves to agitate the entire surface area with thousands of cleaning bubbles. It is exceptionally effective, even on items that absorbed a large number of residues over time.

Cleaning and restoring personal property is not a quick process. At SERVPRO, we use every method and tool in our inventory to restore everything possible after a fire. 

Call your SERVPRO today! 

662-690-6502

SERVPRO- Your Experts in Fire Clean Up

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Call your local SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

When we visit your home after a fire loss, we will scope the affected areas to determine the extent of the loss. We will always pretest affected surfaces to determine the type of smoke and which products will help us recover the area most effectively. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage needs. 

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• The type of smoke may affect the restoration process.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, we will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is different, each job requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. 

I bought a fire extinguisher for my home. Now what?

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

We care about our customers here at SERVPRO of Tupelo SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point, so please read below so you can be well informed on how to use your fire extinguishers at home.

Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep until the fire is out!

Now you may be thinking that you’re as prepared as you could be for a home fire. However, owning a fire extinguisher won’t do you much good if you don’t know how to use it. Did you know that fires can double in size every 60 seconds? That being said, you don’t want to wait for a fire to break out in your home to look over the directions for the first time.

Before you even reach for that fire extinguisher, make sure the fire is still in the incipient stage (the flames aren’t taller than you) and that it’s not threatening to block your evacuation route. If you’re good on both of those fronts, all it takes to effectively operate most fire extinguishers is remembering and executing the acronym 

P.A.S.S:

PULL the pin.

AIM the nozzle at the base of the fire.

SQUEEZE the handle to release the fire extinguishing agent.

SWEEP the nozzle from side to side until the fire appears to be out.

After executing the P.A.S.S. technique, don’t turn your back on the area of the fire as flames may still flare-up. And remember to evacuate immediately and call 9-1-1 if the fire gets out of hand. Your safety is the number one goal of a fire preparedness plan!

Winter Fire Safety Tips

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Call your local SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

The groundhog officially saw his shadow yesterday, so six more weeks of winter. The helpful information and tips below are still important not just during the holidays, to keep your home safe.

According to the American Red Cross, winter holiday fires claim more than 500 lives each year and cause approximately $554 million in property damage. We put together some essential winter holiday fire safety tips to help reduce those numbers. Follow these suggestions from our fire restoration experts, and keep your family, home, pets, and belongings safe this holiday season and throughout the New Year.

WINTER FIRE CAUSES

During the winter and all through the holidays, several seasonal factors can increase the risk of fire in your home. These factors range from an increased fireplace and candle usage to Christmas tree fire hazards. As beautiful as these light touches may be, it is important to keep certain holiday fire safety tips in mind. General holiday fire safety includes:

• Never burn wrapping paper, garbage, or other debris in your fireplace.
• Test every smoke detector in the house and make sure all of them have charged batteries. A September 2015 report by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) stated that the death rate per 100 reported home fires was more than twice as high in homes that did not have any working smoke alarms compared to the rate in homes with working smoke alarms (1.18 deaths vs. 0.53 deaths per 100 fires).
• Always supervise children around fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, and any open flames, even candles.
• Check your space heater before using it. If it is not operating correctly or the cord is damaged in any way, don't use it.
• Never leave a room when a candle is burning. Candle fires are four times more likely to occur during the holidays.

Call your local SERVPRO today! 

662-690-6502

Helpful Tips- On how to Prevent Dryer Fires

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Call your local SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

Did you know that according to the U.S Fire administration 2,900 home dryer fires are reported each year and cause an estimated 5 deaths, 100 injuries, and $35 million in property loss? 

The leading cause of home clothes dryer fires is a failure to clean them which causes lint to accumulate and then in turn causes a fire. Home fires happen more often during the winter and fall seasons. 

Here are some ways to avoid fires within your own home:

• Clean the dryer vent at least once a month to avoid lint accumulation.
• Use metal dryer ducts to help prevent dryer fires.
• No matter the kind of duct is installed in your dryer, make sure to regularly clean it.
• Occasionally wipe the sensor with a rag or cotton ball.
• Clean the lint screen/filter before or after drying each load of clothes.

Call your local SERVPRO of Tupelo 

SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point today!

662-690-6502

Ways You Can Safely Use Candles In Your Home

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

Call your local SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

Avoid Candle Fires in your Home

With warm light and pleasant fragrances, candles can be an easy way to create the atmosphere that you want in your home. However, they can also become a safety hazard if not used properly. Candle fires are common, but the following tips can help you avoid them.

1. Never Leave Burning Candles Unattended

It may seem like an annoyance to extinguish a candle every time you leave the room. However, leaving it burning could result in a candle fire if something gets too close to the flame or if it burns too low. It is best to blow out candles before going to sleep as well, even if you are in the same room.

2. Always Keep Them Out of Reach of Pets and Children

Both children and pets often come with an excess of energy and curiosity. For this reason, it can be easy for them to inadvertently start a candle fire. Keep burning candles in an area that is not within reach, and do not leave them unsupervised.

3. Keep Them Away From Any Flammable Items

When you are using a candle, you should be sure to have the area free of flammable objects. This can include papers as well as fabrics such as curtains and bedding. These types of items should be at least a foot away from any candles that are in use. Flammable liquids should be kept even further away.

4. Use an Alternative to Candles 

Perhaps the easiest way to prevent a fire is simply not to use candles at all. There are a variety of other ways that you can achieve a more relaxing home environment. If you are only interested in adding a pleasant scent to your home, a wax warmer is a great option. You can also buy battery-operated flameless candles that look and smell like the real thing.

While these tips can help you prevent an emergency, accidents can still occur. Whether it is small or large, fires often require smoke cleanup and some repairs. If this happens, SERVPRO of Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point can help return your home to its previous condition.

Facts to know: 10 major things that can cause a house fire

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

Call your local SERVPRO Today! 662- 690-6502

Every home faces the potential for a numerous assortment of risks with the most dangerous of these being a house fire. An accidental fire can occur from many common household items and can easily decimate a house in mere minutes if it is not properly and quickly handled. While proper insurance can help mitigate financial loss, it is better to understand and work to prevent the situations that lead to house fires of any kind. Most homes are stocked full of combustible items. This list is meant to help homeowners not only identify potential issues but also lower the risk of a house fire. Whether it’s a candle accidentally burning throughout the night, faulty cooking equipment, or any other scenario, homeowners should be aware of the most common causes of house fires and work to minimize and prevent accidents before they occur. 

1. Heating Equipment 
2. Cooking Equipment
3. Flammable liquids
4. Careless Smoking
5. Electrical Equipment
6. Candles
7. Children Playing with Fire
8. Inadequate Wiring
9. Barbeque
10. Christmas Trees

We can help mitigate fire, smoke, and soot damage. SERVPRO of Tupelo, SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point offers 24-hour emergency services if needed. 

SERVPRO IS HERE TO HELP! 

Fire Prevention

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Call your local SERVPRO today! 662-690-6502

Safeguarding against potential fire hazards will significantly reduce the likelihood of a fire affecting your home and family. Make fire prevention and safety a priority in your home.

• Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home and test it monthly.
• Prevent electrical fires by never overloading circuits or extension cords.
• Use appliances only as directed by the manufacturer. Unplug appliances when not in use.
• Keep portable heaters at least three feet away from anything combustible.
• Keep the fire in the fireplace. Use fire screens and have your chimney cleaned annually.
• Install an affordable safety sprinkler system. In addition to keeping you safe, they can also increase property value and lower insurance rates.
• Plan your escape. Practice your exit strategy from every room in the house.
• Take the time to educate your children about the dangers of fire.

Do You Know the Basics of Using a Fire Extinguisher?

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERPVRO of Tupelo at (662) 690-6502 if you need help with your water damage today!!

Hopefully, we all have easy access to a fire extinguisher in our home or place of business….The question is, do you know how to use one and on what types of fires?  

A fire-extinguisher can certainly be very helpful in preventing fire and smoke damage from spreading throughout your home or office in Northeast Mississippi. If the worst happens, remember that SERVPRO of Tupelo and Amory/Aberdeen & West Point has caring experts to help you in cleaning up the damage left from a fire.

OSHA has some helpful training tips (see below). If you have any doubts or concerns at all, leave the premises and 911 once you are outside.

SERVPRO of Tupelo and Amory/Aberdeen & West Point wants you to know that you can try to fight a small fire if and only if:

• You have the right class of fire extinguisher
• You know how to use the fire extinguisher
• You can get to the fire extinguisher quickly. Fire is fast. Fire damage and smoke damage are less painful than injuries to you or others.

Types of Portable Fire Extinguishers 

• Class A fire extinguishers should be used to put out fires involving cardboard, paper, wood, dried vegetation. 
• Class B fire extinguishers should be used to put out fires involving flammable and combustible liquids, such as gasoline, diesel, oil, and oil-based paints, and many solvents. 
• Class C fire extinguishers are suitable for use to extinguish fires that involve appliances, tools, or other equipment that is plugged in or otherwise electrically energized, as well as for fires burning in close proximity to electrically-energized equipment. 
• Class D fire extinguishers are designed for use to extinguish combustible metals, such as magnesium or sodium, and are often designed for the specific type of combustible metal. This does NOT include ordinary carbon steel, only metals that will burn when ignited. 
• Class K fire extinguishers are designed to be used for putting out fires that involve oils and greases used for cooking in kitchens, such as vegetable and animal-based oils and fat.

How You Can Prevent Space Heater Fires

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

"Like it never even happened." - Call your local SERVPRO Today- SERVPRO of Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point 662-690-6502

Space heaters can keep you warm during cold nights, yet a burned space heater can also be devastating to your home.

In fact, space heaters can cause major fire damage, especially if they are placed near flammable materials. 

Each year, space heaters lead to approximately 25,000 house fires and 300 deaths. However, by following the below suggestions, you can reduce the odds of a space heater destroying your house.

Safety Features:

Some space heaters are safer than others. You should buy a heater that has features designed to reduce fires. These safety features include:

• A sturdy cord
• Proper certification from an independent tester
• Automatic shutoff sensors that power down the device if it tips over or overheats

Proper Usage:

A burned space heater can become a larger problem if it is put next to combustible items. Avoid using the heater near bedding, matches, or gas cans. Instead, place the heater on a level, hard and nonflammable floor.

Fires can also occur if kids or pets knock the heater over while it is in use. Always take steps to keep animals and young children three feet away from the heater. The heater also should not be kept in a child's room.

Problems with the heater's electrical cord can be dangerous, as well. 

Do not use the heater if the cord appears worn or frayed. To limit overheating, avoid plugging any other electronics into the outlet used by the heater.

Finally, make sure that you turn off the space heater before you go to bed each night. You may also want to unplug it when it is not being used.

Even if you take proper precautions, you could still end up with a burned space heater in your home. If this happens to you, you and your family should get out of the house immediately. Once the fire has been extinguished, smoke cleanup experts can help you restore your property.

"Like it never even happened." - Call your local SERVPRO Today- SERVPRO of Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point 

662-690-6502

Ways to Prevent a House Fire

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

House Fire- Tupelo, Mississippi

How to Prevent a Fire in Your Home

No one likes to think about the possibility of having a fire in their home. Fires can be devastating physically, emotionally, and financially. Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent the likelihood of a home fire. Here are four tips for preventing a fire in your home.

1. Install Smoke Alarms

Fire preparation begins with installing smoke alarms in every sleeping room of your home. You should also have smoke alarms placed in hallways, kitchens, and family rooms. Once you’ve ensured you have the right number of alarms, be sure to test them monthly and replace batteries annually.

2. Educate

Education is key to increasing the safety of your loved ones. Teach children the following fire safety basics:

• Stop, drop and roll
• Fire crawl
• Checking doors for heat
• Escape routes
• The location and sound of smoke alarms
• Emergency phone numbers

3. Create an Escape Plan

Everyone should create a fire escape plan. Creating a plan of action is one of the best fire preparation tips to keep your family safe. Draw a floor plan of your house and mark all possible exits, including doors and windows, in each room. Walkthrough your home and ensure that all exits are free from clutter and that children know how to open and safely exit each window.

4. Practice Your Plan

Once you have a plan in place, it’s wise to practice it. Choose at least two times a year to hold fire drills. These drills can either be planned or spontaneous. A good run-through of the plan will identify any areas that need to be adjusted or improved. Remember to emphasize that once you get outside, you should stay outside of the house. Never go back inside a home that is on fire.

For professional fire damage repair or smoke remediation services, contact SERVPRO of Tupelo today at 662-690-6502.

Electrical Fire in Neighboring City

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Multiple SERVPRO team members working in a hallway at the middle school

On average, 24000 electrical fires occur in the U.S. per year, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.
Electrical issues caused this certain fire at a neighboring middle school here in Mississippi.
SERVPRO of Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen and West Point were happy to be of assistance!

SERVPRO Tip:
Remember especially this time of year space heaters are a top cause of electrical fires. Heaters are often left on in front of/on combustible surfaces like curtains and rugs. Coil heaters are the most dangerous.

4 Rules to Prevent Kitchen Fires

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to kitchen fire prevention tips, the best one is to remain present.

While fire remediation companies are available to help you rebuild your home, the preferable option is likely to avoid a fire. While wishful thinking will not always prevent a disaster from happening, when it comes to kitchen fires, you can follow four tips to limit the possibility of a grease fire.

1. Stay alert
2. Remain present
3. Use a timer
4. Remove flammable items
   

Stay Alert

Kitchen fires and damage often occur because someone lets their guard down while cooking. It is easy to become distracted, especially when dealing with complicated recipes that involve long periods of cooking. However, it is vital that you stay alert. Therefore, if you are drowsy or have had a few drinks, then it might be a good idea to hold off making that fancy meal.

Remain Present

When it comes to kitchen fire prevention tips, the best one is to remain present. You can take this literally. Do not leave the kitchen when you have things frying on the stove. If you must leave, then find someone willing and able to watch the meal for you while you are away. Kitchen fires can happen in an instant, and they require quick responses to limit potential damage.

Use a Timer

If no one is home and you absolutely must leave the kitchen, then set a timer. It is easy to become distracted with other chores. A timer will bring your attention back to the kitchen, where it ultimately belongs.

Remove Flammable Items

Before cooking anything on the stovetop, make sure that you remove any potentially flammable items. For example, move cloth oven mitts and any boxed or plastic objects. You need the workspace to be clear of any fire risks.
The four tips above will help to reduce your risks of a kitchen fire. However, keep in mind that fire is dangerous, and if something your cooking does ignite and you can't extinguish it, get to safety and call 911.

Always Thank First Responders

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

In our line of business we tend to work closely with First Responders such as police, EMTs, and firefighters. Sometimes they are still on the scene when we go cleanup after an event has occurred. 

In our Marketing Department we go visit them and see what we can do to make their jobs easier when we arrive. We never want to be in the way of doing their job. 

We have also taken them baskets full of goodies and even done events alongside them to show what we do after they have done their job. Fire Prevention Month is huge around SERVPRO. We never want anything to happen to you or your property but we want you to know we are available to help in case something does happen! 

Give us a call if you need us! 

Common Places for a Fire to Start

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

By taking basic precautions, you can help prevent fires at these most common locations in your home!

A fire can start almost anywhere in your home, but some areas are more likely to catch fire than others. America’s 350,000 annual house fires happen for many reasons—faulty electrical wiring, overheated appliances, unattended candles and fireplaces—but taking simple precautions at these common locations may prevent a fire at your home.

Kitchen

Half of all residential fires start in the kitchen due to appliances that use heat/electricity, cooking-related incidents (such as an unattended oven or stovetop), or fabric and material (a dishcloth, for example) that's too close to heat or a flame. An oven/stovetop with baked-on grease and residue can easily cause grease fires. Never leave food cooking on a stovetop unattended.

For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Tupelo and Amory, Aberdeen & West Point

Appliances that operate with electricity, gas or heat are potential fire hazards. Appliances 15 years or older are particularly prone to fire damage, especially if they aren't regularly cleaned, inspected and maintained. It's a good idea to only run appliances when you're at home.

• Dryers: lint, fiber and dust buildup is a primary cause of a laundry room fire. Keep vents and filters clean by removing lint after each use, and at least once a year, clean the lint from the exhaust hose at the back of the dryer.
• Dishwashers: heating elements in the dishwasher can overheat and catch fire, especially in older models.
• Microwaves: although convenient, microwaves can be dangerous if you heat food or materials that are flammable, such as aluminum foil, Styrofoam or certain plastic containers.
• Toasters/Toaster Ovens: the electrical elements inside a toaster can become faulty over time and may not turn off, which could start a fire. Crumbs can accumulate and become stuck at the bottom of the toaster, so clean it regularly. Never leave these appliances unsupervised when in use.

Bedroom

There are many potential fire hazards in bedrooms: bedding, curtains, plush items, mattresses. Mattresses made after 2007 are flame-retardant and comply with higher safety standards, so if yours is older, consider purchasing a new one. Install smoke alarms in each bedroom and make a fire escape plan that includes two ways to exit the room (usually through the door and a window).

For Fire Restoration Needs Call SERVPRO of Tupelo and Amory, Aberdeen & West Point 

Chimneys and Fireplaces

Chimneys and fireplaces can develop structural problems over time, which can cause temperatures to burn too high or chimney liners to loosen or detach, which can allow burning embers and ash to escape to combustible areas in walls, attics and roofs. Keep chimneys and fireplaces cleaned and maintained, and have them inspected and professionally cleaned at least once a year or when there is a quarter-inch buildup of creosote or soot. Keep rugs, tapestries and other fabrics away from the fireplace, and always keep a spark screen in front of the fireplace.

Living Room

Like bedrooms, living rooms contain many potentially flammable items: electronics, drapes/curtains, furniture. Candles are among the leading fire hazards in living rooms. Never leave a burning candle unattended and place it away from flammable/combustible objects.

Smoke and Soot Damage can cause a long-lasting odor in your home

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Always be prepared. SERVPRO of Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point is always here to help! Give us a call at 662-690-6502.

Smoke and soot can cause hidden damage and odor. Our Production Techs are experts when it comes to smoke damage who can accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a plan of action.   

Facts about Smoke and Soot

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

 Different Types of Smoke Did you know there are actually different types of smoke? There is what is called wet smoke and dry smoke! Check out the two types below in more detail. Wet Smoke // Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke // Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Why is Board Up Important?

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

There's many things to do & not to do after a fire. Be sure SERVPRO of Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point is on your to-do list!

If your property has experienced a fire, there are several reasons why you might want to board up structural damage or windows. In addition to keeping the external elements out of a building with fire damage, boarding up can also prevent additional losses due to looting and make the fire cleanup process easier.  SERVPRO of Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point offers full-service restoration specialists who can also assist in board-up services.  

Here are four reasons to board-up after a fire.

• In a commercial setting, there may still be viable stock on the premises. If products that appear viable remain in the building, you should consider boarding up. These items may require assessment and cleaning and may not be fit for sale, but having them properly processed rather than stolen can be helpful for insurance purposes.
• You want to protect electronics and other valuables. Depending on the extent of the fire damage, you may be able to restore some electronics or other valuable property to working condition.
• You need to keep out the elements. If the structure of your property has sustained extensive damage, you should try to keep the elements out to prevent additional damage. Exposure to additional water, wind, or sunlight can compound the damage caused by smoke residue and soot.
• You want to limit soot damage. It is generally a good idea to reduce foot traffic on the scene of a recent fire. When soot gets embedded into carpeting or upholstery, it can be much more difficult to restore these materials to a pre-fire condition.

Talk to our experts at SERVPRO of Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory/Aberdeen & West Point, about whether boarding up is a good strategy for preventing loss and limiting damage after a fire. Your major concern is likely to be how to recover from fire damage as quickly and completely as possible. Preventing looting and exposure to the elements can make fire cleanup more successful. Call us at 662-690-6502.

Keep Your Pets Safe in a Fire

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Pets can be considered family, too!

At any given moment, a fire emergency can take place in the area or abroad, and though unexpected; it can be beneficial to already have a plan in place for everyone in your home to evacuate and meet in a safe location. While you should always be most focused on keeping yourself and your family safe, you can also spend some time on pet preparation so that you can have a better chance of getting your pets out of danger as well. You can be better prepared to keep your pets safe during a fire emergency by following these safety tips:

Practice Evacuating 

In the confusion caused by a fire, it can be hard to think of everything you need to do right away. If you have a plan in place and practice it a few times, you can be better prepared to handle a fire emergency. This can not only be helpful for pet safety, but also for the safety of everyone in your household. 

Notice Where Your Pets Are 

An important part of the planning process can be noticing where your pets usually spend their time. It can be especially helpful to note where they hide when frightened. You don’t want to put yourself at risk by spending too much time searching for your dog or cat during a fire emergency, but you can be better prepared to get yourself and your pets out as soon as possible by having a checklist of areas you can look. 

Keep Collars and Leashes Handy

Fires can be especially frightening to pets. By keeping their collars and leashes handy, you can more easily guide them out of the house. If you are unable to find them, it can be easier for the fire department to get them out if they are wearing collars. It can be a good idea to hang leashes by the door you are planning to evacuate through. Call us at SERVPRO of Tupelo! (662)690-6502

Fire Extinguisher 101

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Always be prepared. SERVPRO of Tupelo is always here to help.

Ensuring your home has at least one working fire extinguisher is one of the first steps toward fire preparedness. However, these important tools can come in a variety of styles. Here are a few tips for choosing the right extinguisher for your home.

1.  Consider the Chemical Rating

Many extinguishers include an A, B or C rating to help you know which home fire type it is rated for. The A rating is used for dry combustible materials such as paper or wood, while the B rating indicates effectiveness against flammable liquids. Both of these ratings should have a number after the letter. These numbers indicate the effectiveness level with higher numbers being more effective than lower. The C rating indicates that the extinguisher materials are non-conductive, and may be used in the event of an electrical fire. There is no numeral indicator for C ratings.

2. Look at the Valve Type

There are two types of valves your fire extinguisher may come with. A plastic valve indicates the extinguisher is disposable and will need to be replaced after time or after being used. A metal valve is used for refilling the tank when the pressure gets low over an extended period of time, or after use. Most extinguishers include a gauge to help you determine when a refill may be necessary. 

3. Keep the Size in Mind

Extinguishers can come in a variety of sizes. The size you choose may depend on the location it is intended for. Large extinguishers should be kept in areas where a fire may grow quickly, while small to medium extinguishers are best for quick grab situations. In all cases you should know how to properly use your fire extinguisher and follow proper fire safety protocols.

Whatever type of fire extinguisher you choose, remember to read the instructions for its use. It’s also important to keep your extinguisher in working order by checking the pressure and age readings, and having your extinguisher refilled or replaced when needed. 

For professional fire damage repair or smoke remediation services, contact SERVPRO of Tupelo today at 662-690-6502.

Smoke, Soot & Restoring Your Home

3/10/2019 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

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

The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Tupelo will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call us today at SERVPRO of Tupelo. We are available 24/7 at 662-690-6502.

Fire Damage: Do & Don't

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

There are many things to do and not to do after a fire. Be sure that SERVPRO of Tupelo is on your to-do list!

Fire And Smoke Damage In Your Home

Once the fire department leaves, your  home may suffer from water damage caused by firefighting efforts. We have the specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition. Below are some tips to protect you and your home after a fire. 

Do: 

• Limit movement in your home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets. 
• Keep your hands clean. Hands covered in soot can further damage upholstery, walls, and woodwork. 
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpeted areas. 
• If electricity is off, empty your freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor. 
• Wipe soot off of chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant. 
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures. 
• Wash both sides of leaves on houseplants. 
• Change HVAC filter, but leave the system off until a trained professional can check the system. 
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop soot particles from getting in or out of the HVAC system. 

Don't: 

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Tupelo. 
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water. 
• Don't attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture. 
• Don't eat any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water. 
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be damaged or wet and can cause electric shock, and air movement can create secondary damage. 
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.  

Call SERVPRO of Tupelo at 662-690-6502 for all of your fire restoration needs. We are always here to help! 

Keep Fall Fire Free

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tupelo is here to help 24/7. Call us whatever your fire, mold, or water needs may be. 662-690-6502.

Decorations

Fall decorations, like dried flowers, leaves and cornstalks, are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters. Since these items are dry, they can ignite very easily and spread flames quickly.

Have A Plan

Be sure you have a Fire Preparedness Plan and your family knows what to do if a fire breaks out in your home. Keep emergency exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes.

Protect your family by teaching your children to stay away from open flames. Be sure they know how to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire.

Ensure your smoke alarms are in working order and that you have an easily accessible fire extinguisher.

Make Halloween Safe

Remember safety first when choosing a Halloween costume. Consider avoiding billowing fabrics. If you are making your costume, choose material that won’t easily ignite if it comes into contact with heat or a flame.

It is safest to use a flashlight or battery-operated candle in a jack-o-lantern. Use extreme caution if using a real candle. Place lit pumpkins away from anything that can burn, and out of the way of doorsteps, walkways, and yards.

Be Careful in the Kitchen

With the holidays quickly approaching, your kitchen may be working on overdrive. While cooking, it can be easy to get distracted, especially if you have children. However, kitchens are a high-risk area for household fires, so it’s important to remain watchful.

Never leave food unattended while cooking, especially working with oil. Hot grease can splash and ignite. Keep flammable objects, like washcloths, potholders, and paper towels, away from the stovetop.

If a fire starts in your oven, keep the door closed. Turn it off and wait for the fire to extinguish.

Safely Use Your Fireplace

As the weather turns cold and brisk,fireplaces can bring a warm and inviting atmosphere to any home. However, if fireplaces are not properly cared for, they can lead to an increased fire and smoke risk. Make sure your fireplace is clean and well maintained and never left unattended when lit.

While you can take precautions to prevent fires this fall, sometimes accidents happen. If your home suffers any fire or smoke damage, call SERVPRO of Tupelo.

After smoke or fire damages a home, it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible. Call us at 662-690-6502, and we’ll assess the damage and make your home “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Damage: Restoration vs Replace

8/13/2018 (Permalink)

Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Tupelo help you with your fire damage today. 662-690-6502. We are always here to help!

The first 48 hours after fire damage occurs can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings.  SERVPRO of Tupelo can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems.  Our trained professionals provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration.  These services help ensure your property, belongings and memories are restored to preloss condition when possible.  

A back draft of emotions often sweeps over the homeowners after a fire ravages a home.  Fear, uncertainty, stress and doubt about the future of the property can overwhelm the homeowner long after the flames have been extinguished and the smoke has cleared. 

After the first wave of heroes have rescued the property, let SERVPRO of Tupelo help you restore it.  

So, before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call us today 662-690-6502.

Fire Damage Clean-Up: The Sooner, The Better

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

While a house fire is a trying experience, it helps to have a game plan in place. Let us help you at SERVPRO of Tupelo. 662-690-6502.

It's devastating to experience the chaos of a fire in your Nashville house. Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean up too. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority.

The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage that occurred. These can lead to corrosion, discoloration and unpleasant odor. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem.

Take these action steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire.

1. Contact your insurance company.

2. Contact your local fire restoration company.

3. Take photographs of the damage.

4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company.

5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed.

6. Find a place to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property.

College Campus Dorm Safety

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tupelo is always here to help! Please teach your loved ones how important these things are (even if they know everything!) 662-690-6502

For many college students, living in a dorm during their freshman year of college is the first time they’ve lived away from home and, subsequently, without the supervision of their parents/guardians. Before heading off for their first year of dorm living, new college students should read over this list of safety tips and take a few minutes to make sure that they are living in a fire-safe environment. It’s probably beneficial for returning college students to give this list a read through too; whether living in the dorms or off campus, safety tips should not be overlooked.

Learn the building’s evacuation plan.

If you’re living on campus, chances are your dorm will have an emergency evacuation plan. Once you’re all settled into your new home, take some time to familiarize yourself with the building and learn the evacuation routes. Practice multiple escape routes in the event that your first option is obstructed during an emergency. Most college campus buildings should have an evacuation plan posted on each floor. If you live off campus, have an escape plan of your own with at least two ways out of each room. Knowing what to do before an emergency happens can help you to protect yourself as well as others.

Don’t overload your room’s electrical outlets.

Most electrical outlets in dorms are designed to handle a specific amperage. It’s best not to try to push them to their capacity by using too many multi-plug devices. Your school may also have policies restricting the use/plug-in of certain appliances. These limitations are meant to limit the number of potential electrical and fire hazards in your dorm. If you ever notice any scorched marks or burning odors around an electrical outlet, stop using that outlet and inform someone of the problem right away.

Cook with care.

Be careful when cooking in your dorm or in the dorm’s community kitchen. Cooking equipment is involved in 86 percent of dormitory fires. If you do not have a kitchen in your dorm, then you should follow the school’s guidelines on what sort of plug-in cooking equipment is permitted for use in the dorms. Always be careful with electric frying pans, toasters, toaster ovens, microwaves, etc. Never leave your dorm when cooking appliances are in use.

Respect open flame policies.

Most schools don’t allow you to smoke or burn candles or incense in the dorms. If you do smoke, be sure to do so in the designated areas on campus (most likely away from buildings). If your school does not allow smoking on campus, then you should follow that policy. Avoid burning candles or incense in your dorm room. If you burn them for the smell, try using essential oil diffusers to create a pleasant aroma in the dorm. You can also buy battery operated flame-less candles for the same flickering light/ambiance that a candle provides, but without the fire hazard. If you do still choose to burn candles or incense in your dorm, never leave them unattended and keep them away from flammable materials.

Don’t tamper with fire safety features in your dorm.

Most dorms should have smoke detectors. It is important that you do not cover them with any decorations in your dorm. Additionally, do not remove the batteries in your dorm’s smoke detector. It will send a signal to Public Safety to investigate the source of the problem. It is also important to have fresh batteries in your smoke detector so that it can properly do its job to keep you safe. If your dorm has a sprinkler system in place, don’t hang any decorations on it. Sprinklers are there to help put out a fire before firefighters can get there. They are especially important if your dorm is on an upper level as it can be more difficult for firefighters to get to the flames.

Be mindful of clutter and how you decorate your dorm.

While decorating your dorm is how you can display your personality or bring some of home to school with you, it can also become potential fuel for a fire. Every poster or tapestry you hang on the wall, or piece of decor you hang from the ceiling, can be considered a fire hazard. Some schools may limit the amount of wall space that can be covered in your dorm, or may prohibit hanging things from the ceiling. Even if there are no restrictions, it would be wise to limit the amount of decor you hang in your room as well as to keep clutter to a minimum. Additionally, avoid draping materials over hot items like lamps that could potentially cause ignition. Furniture should also be kept away from the room’s heat source to reduce the risk of fire.

Fire Safety Tips

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

You can never be too prepared! We are always here to help at SERVPRO of Tupelo! 662-690-6502

House fires are sudden and unexpected.  Studies show that you may only have two minutes to escape from a home fire and get to safety, which does not seem like much time.  However, Following these tips from the Red Cross will not only help you prevent house fires, but they will also help you prepare and make sure your family is safe if one ever does occur.

1. Get Rid of Fire Hazards

Identifying and taking the necessary precautions to ensure that you do not have fire hazards in your home is important.  This means all electronic items that produce heat should always be at least three feet away from anything flammable.  All space heaters and electric blankets should always be turned off when they are not being used.

2. Always Avoid Smoking in Bed

Smoking in bed is dangerous because of the possibility of hot ashes igniting your flammable bedding.  It is also important to make sure all candles are put out when being left unattended.

3. Make Sure Your Children Are Informed

Talk to your children about the importance of not playing with lighters, matches, and fire.  You can take an extra precautionary step by keeping all matches and lighters up high and out of reach or locked up in a place that your children cannot access.

4. Check Your Smoke Alarms

Be sure you have working smoke detectors on every floor of your home and on the inside and outside of every sleeping area.  These should be checked monthly to ensure the batteries are working, and they should be replaces every 10 years.

5. Make a Plan

Discuss your outside meeting spot with your family and come up with an escape plan.  This escape plan should be practiced at least twice a year, and you should make sure that every member of your family is able to escape in less than two minutes.

Restoring Documents After a Fire Damage

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

You never know what can be restored until you ask! Let us help you at SERVPRO of Tupelo for all of your fire restoration needs.

Fires are devastating in many ways, and they can destroy valuable items in your home or office. You may worry about important documents, such as birth certificates and social security cards. Knowing some important about document restoration can help you to restore those items in the event of a fire.

Take Precautions

Taking precautionary measures can better prepare your valuable items for document restoration. For example, you could store them in a fireproof box. In the event that they experience some damage, possibly because of a hole in the box, restoring them would likely be more of a possibility. You should also keep them together so that you don't waste valuable time trying to locate them after a fire.

Call Early

If you wait too long to call SERVPRO of Tupelo, you may discover that it is too late to perform full fire restoration services when it comes to your documents. Recovering from a fire is often tremendously difficult, and you may not want to think more about the incident. However, by taking the time to call early, you can allow your family and home to start to heal.

Ask for Instructions

When you are on the phone booking an appointment with the professionals, ask if you should do anything to better preserve your documents. For example, if you touch damaged documents, the paper might crumble. The team may advise you to leave the documents exactly where they are, or you may receive instructions to handle them in a certain manner.

Maintain Realistic Expectations

In the event that an important document was seriously damaged, you may have high hopes that it will be restored. Keep in mind that an evaluation of the situation is one of the first steps. If the documents have been completely burned in the fire, restoring them might prove impossible.

Create a List of Resources

Before a damaging event takes place, work to create a list of resources with which you can consult in the event that the documents are beyond repair. For example, you can find out what entity to contact if you lose your social security card or birth certificate in the fire

Fires provoke fear in many people. You likely have your own anxieties about fires. One of these fears may relate to the potential destruction of documents. Fortunately, you have options if you think your documents have been ruined; you can call to inquire about restoration.

Fire Safety Tip: Keep Your Dryer Vent Clean

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

Clean your dryer vent daily!!

It may surprise you to learn that one of the leading causes of home fires is your dryer vent. When your dryer vent becomes clogged with lint, it is susceptible to catching fire. That can result in plenty of costly fire damage to your home.

There's a reason why clothes dryer fires are so common. Lint is actually extremely combustible. When it accumulates in your  dryer, and the heat from drying comes in contact with it, it's little surprise that this material occasionally bursts into flame. Keep your lint trap clean!

However, this isn't the only way to reduce the possibility of a clothes dryer fire. You also need to check your dryer's vent hose. Make sure the hose is aluminum, and that it is not kinked or crushed. If the flow of hot air is obstructed, you'll boost the chances of a fire. You should also clean your vent line often. Lint can accumulate inside the hose, and that can also increase the likelihood of a fire. If you can't clean the hose on your own, hire a contractor to tackle this job.

Keep the area around your dryer clean. If your dryer does start a fire, you want that fire to spread as slowly as possible. Keeping boxes, clothing and other items away from your dryer will help keep any fire contained.

If you do suffer a dryer fire, know that you can call on the professionals at SERVPRO of Tupelo. We can help with fire restoration efforts and with cleaning up the results of fire damage.

No one wants to suffer any type of fire. A fire that is as easily preventable as a clothes dryer fire, though, can be particularly upsetting. Make sure to keep your dryer's vents and lint trap clean to avoid these costly fires.

When Fire Damage Affects You

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

Fires can cause much damage to your home or business...but SERVPRO of Tupelo can make it "Like it never even happened."

What is Restorable: 

Determining exactly what can be saved until everything is dry is usually impossible. We will set a follow-up date so we can monitor the drying process. In addition, the restoration process will be scheduled when the drying is complete. The can include floor preparation, tack strip replacements, carpet and pad installation, seaming, carpet cleaning and restoring, and furniture and contents cleaning. A scope of services will be provided. 

Pre-Existing or Preloss Conditions:

During the course of cleaning, it is likely we will remove day-to-day soiling, which existed prior to your loss. We are happy to do so. If, however, the removal of pre-existing soil requires significant extra effort, our crews will be instructed to move on to the next item. Pre-existing damage, including visible mold growth, will also be noted.

Personal Items:

In the course of our survey and cleaning, we will sometimes be required to open doors, cupboards, etc. to qualify and/or restore the damage. If any of these areas contain personal items you would prefer to relocate before we start work, please let us know.

Overlooked Items: 

Although our supervisors inspect all work, you should accompany the supervisor on the final walk-through and bring any overlooked items or concerns to the supervisor's attention. 

Insurance Adjusters or Agents:

We are neither insurance agents nor adjusters. We cannot authorize anything to be replaced, repaired or painted. Our job is to preserve and protect, stop further damage from occurring and restore damaged items to their prior condition when possible. 

 Please call SERVPRO of Tupelo 24/7 in any Fire or Water Emergency at 662-690-6502. 

What to do Before, During, & After a Fire

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

Fires can be a very dangerous and emotional thing...please let us at SERVPRO of Tupelo help you. We are always here to help!

Home Fire Preparedness: There are actually ways you can prepare your home for a fire. Here a few tips:

1. Install the right number of smoke alarms. Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home, outside each sleeping area, and inside each sleeping room.
2. Test your smoke alarms once a month. Change your batteries twice a year. We suggest changing them each time the time changes.
3. Have a fire extinguisher in your home, especially in your kitchen.
4. Teach your children what smoke alarms sound like and what that sound means.
5. Ensure all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
6. Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
7. Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell "FIRE" to alert everyone that they must get out. Maybe do this when you put new batteries in the smoke alarms.
8. Make sure everyone knows how to call 911.
9. Teach household members how to STOP, DROP, and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

What To Do if a Fire Starts:

1. Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher.
2. Remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT, and CALL 911.
3. Yell "FIRE" several times and go outside right away. If you live in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.
4. If closed doors or handles are warm or smoke blocks your primary escape route, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to touch.
5. If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Close doors behind you.

Recovering After a Fire:

1. Call 911. Give first aid where needed; cool and cover burns to reduce the chance of further injury or infection.
2. Let friends and family know you are safe.
3. People and animals that are seriously injured or burned should be transported to professional medical or veterinary help immediately.
4. Stay out of fire-damaged home until local fire authorities say it is safe to re-enter.

SERVPRO of Tupelo can also help you get your home and belongings back together after a fire. Call us today at 662-690-6502.

Fire Prevention Tips: Chimney Cleaning

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Always be prepared. SERVPRO of Tupelo is always here to help.

At SERVPRO of Tupelo, we know the lovely warm glow a chimney can add to any home. Sitting in front of a fireplace in your Tupelo home on a crisp day is a wonderful way to relax and enjoy an evening with family. There is nothing more important than keeping your home and family safe. To help keep those fires going, it's useful to make sure the chimney is periodically cleaned. Chimney cleaning can help a fireplace stay in good shape and reduce the risk of a fire breaking out in your home. Additionally, the chimney allows smoke, fumes and dangerous toxins escape the home through its ventilation. Read on for some helpful tips on having your chimney services.

Inspect the Brick

All chimneys should be completely cleaned at least once a year. Proper cleaning is important to make sure that the chimney is in good working order. Any homeowner should also perform an inspection on their own. This can help identify any potential problems that must be addressed as soon as possible. It's a good idea to bring a flashlight and have a good look at the floor. All the ashes in the chimney accumulate here. The flooring needs to be kept in good shape to make sure the fire can be turned on. Note any problems with the brick surrounding it. The bricks used in a fireplace are more heat tolerant than ordinary bricks. They need to be maintained to prevent any fire in the fireplace from spreading to other areas of the home. If a single brick is out of place, this can make the rest of the chimney far less functional.

Have a Look Up

After having a good look at the area surrounding the fireplace, it's a good idea to have a look at the rest of the chimney. Put on some old clothes and get in the area surrounding the fireplace. Have a look at the chimney area. You should see if there's any obstruction or other issues. Small birds and rodents often find themselves stuck or you could have a thick layer of creosote and soot sticking to the flue and masonry inside the chimney. When this gets too thick, all it takes is a spark and you have a chimney fire on your hands.

According to the National Fire Prevention Association, 30 percent of home fires are caused by chimney fires. Be sure your home is not one of them and have your chimney cleaned regularly.If you do run into trouble with smoke or fire in your home, give us a call today. 

SERVPRO of Tupelo - 662-690-6502

Available 24/7 

Here to Help!

Fire Process Overview

12/27/2017 (Permalink)

If you are a victim of a fire damage, choose the professionals at SERVPRO of Tupelo. We are always here to help. 662-690-6502

No matter how the fire started, a rush of emotions and feelings of panic seem to follow. After the calling the Fire Department to put out the fire, who do you call to help you clean up the damage caused by the fire?

SERVPRO of Tupelo is here to help you any time, day or night. Here is an overview of our fire damage process:

ONE HOUR: Within one hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO of Tupelo will contact you to arrange for service. You'll know help is on the way!

FOUR HOURS: Within four hours of loss notificiation, SERVPRO of Tupelo will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is repsonding quickly to your damage.

DETAILED EXPLANATION: A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO of Tupelo professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and anticipated outcome.

PRETESTING: We will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.

EIGHT HOURS: Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal breifing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.

CLEANING, RESTORATION, & DEODORIZATION: We will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time.

FINAL WALK-THROUGH: After the work has been completed, a final walk through will be conducted with your to help ensure your satisfaction.

Call us today at SERVPRO of Tupelo at (662) 690-6502 for all of your fire restoration needs.

Holy Smoke!

10/25/2017 (Permalink)

No matter what Holiday you are celebrating, SERVPRO of Tupelo is always here to help! 662-690-6502

The holidays are approaching and many families are finalizing plans for elaborate meals, get-together with friends, and decorating with festive lights. Amidst all this planning, SERVPRO of Tupelo reminds homeowners that they may be overlooking the most important plan they can make—a fire safety plan.

Each year, statistics show the incidence of home cooking and candle fires peaks during the holiday season. This tends to focus homeowners on fire prevention precautions—and that’s a good thing, But to truly protect your family from the dangers of a home fire, at the holidays and throughout the year, you need to start with a fire safety plan. Developing a fire safety plan and practicing it regularly with your family is the most important step you can take to help prevent a house fire from turning into a devastating tragedy.

SERVPRO is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and their disaster response professionals know from experience how devastating a home fire can be. They also know that when fire causes a loss of life, there is no “remediation” possible. This is why SERVPRO has teamed up with the American Red Cross by supporting the ARC Disaster Responder2 program, and in particular the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign3. As a Disaster Responder, SERVPRO pledges dollars and support in advance to help the ARC develop and distribute educational materials and respond immediately when they are needed.

We at SERVPRO encourage all Tupelo area homeowners to follow these fire safety guidelines, developed by the ARC through their Home Fire Preparedness Campaign, to help minimize injury or loss of life due to a residential fire.

1. Install the right number of smoke alarms4. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
2. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
3. Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
4. Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
5. Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire” to alert everyone they must get out.
6. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
7. Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

Fire prevention and fire safety planning are two very different things. Fire prevention planning helps control or eliminate the causes of a fire. Fire safety planning helps prevent injury and loss of life when a fire does break out. To protect your family and your property, you need both.

For more information please contact us at 662-690-6502.

How to Avoid Fires in Bedrooms

6/14/2017 (Permalink)

Please let us help you if you are a victim of a fire damage. Call SERVPRO of Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory / Aberdeen & West Point at 662-690-6502.

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 Tupelo and SERVPRO of Amory / Aberdeen & West Point today at 662-690-6502.

Smoke Alarm Safety

5/11/2017 (Permalink)

Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Tupelo today at 662-690-6502.

A few Sundays ago we lost an hour of sleep when the time changed. I think we are all finally getting used to the time change. The longer days are worth it now!  This time of year we also are reminded to change the batteries in our smoke alarms. You should also check the manufacturing date on your smoke alarm and replace it if it is over ten years old.

Since half of home fire deaths occurring between the hours of 11 PM- 7 AM a smoke alarm can be the difference between just losing your home and losing your life. For more information on different types of smoke alarms and optimal alarm placement please see  https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/technology/.

If you have a fire at your home or business the technicians at SERVPRO of Tupelo are highly trained in how to handle the cleaning of your home and contents. We will be sympathetic to you because we know that it will be a very stressful time for you. We hope you don't ever need us for a fire loss but if you ever do we will be here for you.  662-690-6502

Fire...the Facts.

5/11/2017 (Permalink)

Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Tupelo today at 662-690-6502. No fire is too big or too small!

JUST THE FACTS

ABOUT FIRE

In 2014, fires caused 2745 deaths, 11,825 injuries, and $6.8 Billion in property damage.

Three out of five home fire deaths are caused by fires in homes with no smoke alarms or not working alarms.

Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in reported home fires in half.

In fires considered large enough to activate the smoke alarm, hardwired alarms operated 94 percent of the time, while battery powered alarms operated 80 percent of the time.

When smoke alarms fail to operate, it is usually because batteries are missing, disconnected, or dead.

One quarter of home fire deaths are caused by fires that start in the bedroom. Another quarter result from fires in the living room, family room or den.

One-third of survey respondents who made an estimate thought they would have at least 6 minutes before a fire in their home would become life-threatening.   The time available is often much less.  Only 8 percent said their first thought on hearing a smoke alarm would be to get out.

Facts provided by National Fire Protection Association, nfpa.org

 WHAT TO DO UNTIL HELP ARRIVES

DO:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas
• If electricity is off, empty freezer/refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome kitchen/bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Change HVAC filters; leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.                               

DON’T:

• Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional.
• Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional.
• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water, as they may be contaminated.
• If ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fans. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

When Fire Damage Affects You

12/29/2016 (Permalink)

Fires can cause much damage to your home or business...but SERVPRO of Tupelo can make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Tupelo can help you in so many ways if you are a victim of a fire damage in your home or business. 

What is Restorable: 

Determining exactly what can be saved until everything is dry is usually impossible. We will set a follow-up date so we can monitor the drying process. In addition, the restoration process will be scheduled when the drying is complete. The can include floor preparation, tack strip replacements, carpet and pad installation, seaming, carpet cleaning and restoring, and furniture and contents cleaning. A scope of services will be provided. 

Pre-Existing or Preloss Conditions:

During the course of cleaning, it is likely we will remove day-to-day soiling, which existed prior to your loss. We are happy to do so. If, however, the removal of pre-existing soil requires significant extra effort, our crews will be instructed to move on to the next item. Pre-existing damage, including visible mold growth, will also be noted.

Personal Items:

In the course of our survey and cleaning, we will sometimes be required to open doors, cupboards, etc. to qualify and/or restore the damage. If any of these areas contain personal items you would prefer to relocate before we start work, please let us know.

Overlooked Items: 

Although our supervisors inspect all work, you should accompany the supervisor on the final walk-through and bring any overlooked items or concerns to the supervisor's attention. 

Insurance Adjusters or Agents:

We are neither insurance agents nor adjusters. We cannot authorize anything to be replaced, repaired or painted. Our job is to preserve and protect, stop further damage from occurring and restore damaged items to their prior condition when possible. 

Please call SERVPRO of Tupelo 24/7 in any Fire or Water Emergency at 662-690-6502. 

Disaster Preparedness - What You Can Do

10/24/2016 (Permalink)

No storm is too big or too small for SERVPRO of Tupelo.

In order to be fully prepared, you should have all pertinent and proper information in a written plan for east retrieval. Some key questions to consider when creating a person preparedness plan include:

• Do you have an escape or evacuation route in place?
• Do you have a designated meeting place in case of separation?
• Does everyone have a list of contact information including family members out of state who can serve as a point of contact?
• Do you have a disaster supply kit with necessary supplies?
• Do you have a first aid kit that includes necessary prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines and basic medical supplies?
• Do you have enough non-perishable food and bottled water?
• Do you have access to important family documents, including insurance policies, bank, credit card, and loan information and family records such as birth certificates and social security cards?
• Do you have an inventory of valuable household goods?

A well-equipped disaster supply kit should include, but is not limited to, the following,

• Water - a large enough supply to provide each person with 1 gallon daily for drinking and sanitation.
• Food - enough to last 3-7 days. Food needs to be non-perishable or canned food. You will also want to include a non-electric can opener, paper plates, and plastic utensils.
• Bedding including sheets, blankets, and pillows.
• Clothing - remember it may be warm, however, you may be working and cleaning and may prefer pants or long sleeves to protect your skin. You will also need sturdy, closed toe, non-slip shoes if available.
• First aid kit including antiseptics or sanitizers and bandages, over-the-counter and prescription medications.
• Extra flashlights and batteries. Oil lanterns also provide a good source of light, if available.
• Toiletries including toilet paper and hygiene items. Hand sanitizers are also good to have on hand.
• Battery-operated radio with extra batteries so you can listen to weather service announcements.
• Cash - you will want some cash and small bills on hand as banks may not be open.
• Emergency phone numbers and contact information including insurance agent and family contacts.
• Tools, tarps, plastic sheets, trash bags, duct tape, etc. to help make minor repairs.
• Important documents should be kept in a waterproof bag or plastic sealed container and should include insurance, medical and family records, birth certificates, social security cards, bank account information and a complete home inventory analysis.
• Gas - fill you car's tank ahead of time if time permits. You may also want to fill plastic gasoline-approved containers with gas to store.
• Pet care items including food, leash and a carrier or cage.

Don't wait until it is too late; prepare not to help protect your family in an emergency or disaster situation.

Call SERVPRO of Tupelo today to help us prepare your family at 662-690-6502.

FIre Process Overview

6/14/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tupelo's goal is to make it...Like it never even happened.

No matter how the fire started, a rush of emotions and feelings of panic seem to follow. After the calling the Fire Department to put out the fire, who do you call to help you clean up the damage caused by the fire?

SERVPRO of Tupelo is here to help you any time, day or night. Here is an overview of our fire damage process:

ONE HOUR: Within one hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO of Tupelo will contact you to arrange for service. You'll know help is on the way!

FOUR HOURS: Within four hours of loss notificiation, SERVPRO of Tupelo will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is repsonding quickly to your damage.

DETAILED EXPLANATION: A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO of Tupelo professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and anticipated outcome.

PRETESTING: We will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.

EIGHT HOURS: Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal breifing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.

CLEANING, RESTORATION, & DEODORIZATION: We will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time.

FINAL WALK-THROUGH: After the work has been completed, a final walk through will be conducted with your to help ensure your satisfaction.

Call us today at SERVPRO of Tupelo at (662) 690-6502 for all of your fire restoration needs.

How SERVPRO of Tupelo Can Help With Your Fire Restoration

5/31/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tupelo will make your fire damage "Like it never even happened."

Structure Cleaning

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. SERVPRO of Tupelo will pretest to determine the extent of damage, and then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your structure. Depending on the amount of soot, SERVPRO of Tupelo may even be able to reduce the cost of recovery by cleaning lighter soot deposits found on some surfaces, eliminating the expense incurred with repainting or refinishing. In other cases, SERVPRO of Tupelo will clean to "prepare for painting". This process deodorizes and ensures the new paint will adhere properly to the surface.

Contents Cleaning

All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. SERPVRO of Tupelo begins by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. SERVPRO of Tupelo can provide wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac and much more. Finally, SERVPRO of Tupelo can provide an inventory list of all "to be claimed" items if requested.

Call us today at (662)690-6502 and we will make it "Like it never even happened."

Once The Fire Is Out Who Will Help Put The Pieces Back Together??

5/27/2016 (Permalink)

Within 4 hours of loss notification, SERPVRO of Tupelo will on-site to start mitigation services.

The leading causes of fire in a home include:

• Cooking
• Heating Units
• Electrical
• Smoking

No matter how the fire started, a rush of emotions and feelins of panic seem to follow. After calling the Fire Department to put out the fire, who do you call to help you clean up the damage caused by the fire?

SERVPRO of Tupelo professionals are trained in the cleanup and care of your home and personal belongings following a fire incident. Before attempting to clean up the fire damage yourself, call us at SERVPRO of Tupelo at (662) 690 - 6502.

Helpful Tips for Fire Damages

5/19/2016 (Permalink)

A fire can cause damage to things you may not even see or think! It can be a dangerous situation even after all flames have been put out.

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call SERVPRO of Tupelo today at (662) 690-6502

What To Do After A Fire

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

What NOT To Do After A Fire

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

Grease Fire Causes Major Fire Damage in Tupelo,MS

5/6/2016 (Permalink)

Fire Damage from a grease fire in Tupelo,MS

Statistics show that 2 out of every 5 fires begin in the kitchen. SERVPRO of Tupelo has a lot of experience working with fire damage and restoring customers homes "Like it never even happened".

Just last month we helped a customer in Tupelo, MS that was a victim to a kitchen fire at their home. This is a terrible time for anyone to have to go through, but letting SERVPRO of DTT helps to take the worry and stress away, especially in the beginning stages of this traggic event.

Here are tips from the American Red Cross to Avoid Cooking Fires:

1. Never leave cooking food unattended – stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If you have to leave the kitchen, even for a second, turn off the stove.

2. Check your food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking.

3. Use a timer so you’ll remember that the stove or oven is on.

4. Don’t wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.

5. Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.

6. Keep anything that can catch fire - pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains—away from your stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.

7. Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.

8. Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen. Contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.]

9. Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.

10. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year.

We hope you and your family never has to experience a fire damage in your home, but if you do please call SERVPRO of Tupelo at (662) 690-6502 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

Grease Fire

4/5/2016 (Permalink)

Wonda had a grease fire at her home she is leasing in Tupelo, MS yesterday. SERVPRO of Tupelo is going to clean her contents, and the homeowner also requested for them to clean the structure of the home. 

Commercial Fire

2/25/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tupelo just finshed a cleaning & demo at a commercial business in Tupelo, MS today. It took many man hours, but they were able to save several pieces of equipment by cleaning them thoroughly.

Electrical fire in bathroom

2/16/2016 (Permalink)

Lewis from West Point, MS called yesterday due to a fire that started in bathroom of his home. The marketing representative arrived on scene yesterday & scoped the damage & the technicians will begin the cleaning and tear out of non-salvageable items in the morning.

smoke & water damage

2/3/2016 (Permalink)

A breaker box caught on fire at Joanne's home in Mooreville, MS this morning. Thankfully no one was injured, but her home has smoke & water damage. SERVPRO of Tupelo began cleaning her home this afternoon.

Electrical fire in kitchen

1/21/2016 (Permalink)

Polly in Fulton, MS had an electrical fire to occur yesterday. SERVPRO of Tupelo responded to her call & has began the cleaning. She was very upset this had occured, but was very thankful and knew she was in good hands when the crew arrived.

Smoke damage

1/15/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Amory, Aberdeen, & West Point just received a call from a customer in West Point, MS. Melissa stated she had smoke damage due to gas logs in her home. 

Electrical fire

10/20/2015 (Permalink)

A customer in Amory, MS got a call no one ever wants to receive today. His home was on fire. The highly trained professionals with SERVPRO of Amory, Aberdeen, & West Point were the second ones onsite & began the fire restoration process.

Electrical fire in living room

10/14/2015 (Permalink)

A customer in Pontotoc, MS left her home this morning thinking it was just a normal day. Unfortunately, her home caught on fire in the living room due to an electrical problems. SERVPRO of Amory, Aberdeen, & West Point has responded to her call & is making her home "Like It Never Even Happened."

Grease Fire

10/13/2015 (Permalink)

A customer had a grease fire in her kitchen last night. She thought it would not be too bad, but woke up to smell of smoke in the upstair bedrooms. SERVPRO of Tupeol responded to the call & have began the fire restoration process.

Grease Fire

9/29/2015 (Permalink)

One of our Marketing Reprsentatives received a called today concerning a fire in Ecru, MS. Upon his arrival & inspection, he found it was started by grease on the stove. He informed the customer that a crew from SERVPRO of Amory, Aberdeen, & West Point would be arriving today to begin the cleanup. 

Residential Fire

9/24/2015 (Permalink)

A customer in Fulton, MS called with an electrical fire. SERVPRO of Tupelo has been on site beginning the fire restoration process.

Fire Restoration

9/3/2015 (Permalink)

A landlord called with fire damage to a duplex apartment building in Amory, MS. SERVPRO of Amory, Aberdeen, & West Point have been onsite cleaning & packing out contents.

House fire

8/31/2015 (Permalink)

A fire damaged a home in Okolona, MS. The professional technicians of SERVPRO of Tupelo were there within one hour to begin the homeowner's restoration process.

Kitchen fire

8/24/2015 (Permalink)

A gentleman in Okolona, MS had a fire that began in his kitchen. SERVPRO of Amory, Aberdeen, & West Point, MS was called in to help in his time of need.