Fire & Smoke Damage Affects

 

Fire damage , smoke and odor contamination in your home or business can be devastating and overwhelming.

It can affect all surfaces throughout the property, including furniture, flooring, metals, silver, crystal and even stainless steel fixtures. In addition, the residues left behind after a structure fire or smoke damage event usually contains toxic, carcinogenic residues. Immediate effects often include respiratory problems (nose, throat, and lungs), eye irritation and/or exacerbation of pre-existing medical conditions. The emotional effects of fire or smoke damage can be intense, especially when sentimental personal items are damaged or destroyed.  We know and handle the delicate nature of fire damage restoration with compassion and the professional care you deserve.  Fire damage costs will naturally vary widely depending on the size of the fire, the value of property destroyed/damaged, and other factors. According to the  Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition , a fire could cost you more than  $45,000  if you don't have sprinklers, whereas a home equipped with sprinklers could average less than  $2,500  in damage.  Low-End Cost Estimate for Fire Restoration: $2000  or less  High-end cost estimate for Fire Restoration:   50,000  or more  What to Expect with Fire Restoration:   If you have homeowner's or fire insurance, do not move or clean anything until the insurance investigator has had a chance to inspect and photograph the damage  Fire damage can affect all or part of a property. Fortunately, homeowners' insurance policies often cover damage from fire and smoke, including wildfires. If you or a loved one has been injured in a fire or need help getting insurance to cover your claim, contact an experienced Washington attorney.  Fire damage, smoke damage and even water damage from fire-fighting efforts can worsen quickly. The sooner you can get the property cleaned up and restored, the less it will cost  Fire damage restoration is a process that begins as soon as the authorities say the property is safe. Smoke is an acidic byproduct of fire capable of corroding and staining surfaces such as walls and counters. In some cases the steps taken to put out the blaze can cause more damage than the actual fire. This is why proper fire restoration deals with heat, smoke and water damage.  Fire damage, including odor and smoke destruction, in your home or business can be widespread and overwhelming. It can affect every kind of surface, including furniture, carpeting, faucets, and even stainless steel fixtures. In addition,   fire can release toxins into the environment causing eye irritation, respiratory aggravation, or making existing medical conditions worse.   And the emotional effects of fire damage can be equally as harmful, particularly when treasured personal effects are marred or lost. We understand the delicate nature of fire damage restoration, and intend to handle your situation with the utmost care and compassion, simplifying the recovery process as much as possible.

  Fire Damage Claims  53-1. Purpose. The purpose of this ordinance is to implement the provisions of N.J.S.A. 17:36-8 et seq. in order to ensure that, prior to the payment by insurance companies of fire damage claims in excess of two thousand five hundred dollars (52,500.), all taxes and assessments and other municipal liens upon the real property involved are paid in full to the municipality.

  The fire damage limit provides coverage for fire damage caused by negligence on the part of the insured to premises rented to the named insured. If a fire occurs because of negligence of the insured and causes damage to property not rented to the insured, coverage would be provided under the occurrence limit  The fire damage target sets may be unique to each fire ignition source scenario, or may be common to two or more fire ignition source scenarios.  In some cases, the same fire damage target set may apply to all fire ignition source scenarios in the fire area.  The ability to refine fire damage sets to specific fire scenarios is often driven by the level of cable and component routing information available.

  All fire damage must be attended to quickly and restored before it's too late. Nobody can get through restoring a home that's been through a fire alone, and that's why we're here to give you quality service in home restoration.  Home fire damage can be devestating.  Even more devastating is finding out that the home fire insurance section of your  home owners policy  does not adequately cover your losses. Whether it's a minor kitchen fire or a major home fire damaging or destroying your entire home, you want to make sure that you have enough home fire insurance coverage to repair or replace destroyed property.   Your home policy includes homeowners fire insurance,  however, you need to make sure you  purchase enough home insurance  to protect your property.

  After fire damage it is natural to want to jump right in and clean the building and contents. Timely action can be a great help, but incorrect action can jeopardize or impede satisfactory restoration  Typical Fire damage increase. Goes up to 65% at 6*, no added effect.
  Our post fire damage restoration Austin services and fire damage remediation crews are available 24/7 to repair, rebuild and restore your home or business after any fire, smoke and water damage   The basement fire damage needs to be thoroughly assessed as it contains the foundation over which the entire structure rests. Flooring fire damage needs to be completely assessed, as in most of the cases the entire floor ought to be replaced. It all depends on the fire damage afflicted to the floors. If the burn is not deep, it could be easily sanded down. In some cases, it would be just the smoke odor and the stains would be a result of soot. They can be easily rectified by salvaging it and deodorizing it.

   Prevents fire damage by conducting surveys and inspections for hazards; enforcing codes.
   Fire: Fire damage may be temporary, such as scorched foliage, or may be permanent, such as in cases where cambium is killed around some portion of the bole.  The location and amount of fire damage will determine how the damage may affect the growth and survival of the tree.  Fire often causes physiological stress, which may predispose the tree to attack by insects of other damaging agents.

  In the case of fire damage or other damage to the Unit not caused by Tenant, Tenant shall give Landlord immediate notice of same.  Upon receipt of such notice, Landlord may either (a) repair the Unit or (b) terminate the Lease.  If Landlord makes repairs to the Unit, Landlord shall have a reasonable time in which to do so.  If the damage to the Premises or the Unit renders the Unit uninhabitable, Landlord shall give notice to Tenant, after repairs are made, of the date on which the Unit may be reoccupied.  Monthly Rent for the period that Tenant can not occupy the Unit because of the damage shall be forgiven.

  Another form of fire damage that is often underestimated is damage to electronic equipment. While direct heat damage to electronics is usually easy to detect, the corrosive effects of soot and smoke-borne acids may not be. If corrosive chemicals have been deposited inside delicate TVs, audio equipment, cameras and the like, they will continue their destructive work when the components are turned back on and heat up. Unless this hidden damage is remediated before the equipment is placed back in service, this could cause a significant expense at a time when your insurance adjustor has already closed your case.
  When we evaluate fire damage, we look carefully at all the damage related to the fire, including smoke, soot, raw heat and of course, all of the water or other extinguishing materials. You should be paid in full for all of the damage – not just part of it. If your residence or business is be livable or workable, you may need to find new quarters while the damage is repaired. Many people don’t realize that “ additional living expenses ” like hotel accommodations, restaurant meals and dry cleaning can all be claimed and covered. We’ll help you sort out those issues, so you can get back to living your life.
  When it comes to  fire damage , the recovery and restoration process can be a long and overwhelming one. Homeowners often don't know where to turn beyond contacting their insurance agent. At United Services, we offer  24-Hour Emergency Service  for homeowners and property managers who are in need of restoration services.

  The real extent of  fire damage cannot be determined just by looking at it. There may be damage that is not seen immediately, such as structural damage, for example. The cleanup process is complicated. Water-, soot- and smoke-damaged objects must be immediately segregated to salvage as many items as possible. Burned objects, on the other hand, must be placed in a proper disposal container and sent to the proper facility to avoid harming the environment.
  We provide Water Damage, Fire Damage, and Water Removal Services throughout Texas. If you need our One Hour Response time services in  Dallas/Fort Worth ,  Houston , or  San Antonio , select the link to that city and let us assist you quickly.

  Book and paper materials with fire damage only (no water) are quite stable, provided they are not handled. Handling can smear charred areas and cause brittle paper to break.

2.  Do not move material unless fire damage to the building puts the collection at a further risk.

  Unfortunately, the destruction of fire damage goes beyond flames and smoke because the water and chemicals used to douse the fire can cause additional damage. But that's only the beginning.

  It is not possible to give a checklist of fire damage restoration methods that will work for every fire because no two fires are exactly the same. Buildings are made from a variety of different materials that all burn a different way, leaving many different types of residue, each with its own method for   fire damage restoration  . The situation can be further complicated by residues mixing together and being altered by the methods used to put out the fire.

  Property owners in Texas who have suffered fire damage know what the flames, smoke and fire department water can do to a structure. In most cases, homeowners or commercial property insurance policyholders have little problem collecting the money they need for reconstruction. What many people don't realize, however, is that owners of buildings next to or near the site of the fire often suffer smoke, heat and water damage as well. Proving 'collateral' damage from a nearby fire can be an uphill battle with insurance companies, however.

  If your property has experienced some type of fire damage, a  disaster cleanup and restoration company  is necessary. Fire damage often goes beyond what the eye can see, and mold can form as quickly as 24-48 hours, even if building materials have been dried out. Left untreated, mold can cause various health issues for you and your family. A fire also leaves behind extinguisher residue, soot, ash, and an odor that can be difficult to get rid of.
  You or your insurer may hire the services of a fire damage restoration firm. It is important to coordinate with the insurance company/adjuster before contracting for any services. If you intrude in the insurer's area of responsibility by contracting for services without their knowledge or consent, you may be left with bills to pay that otherwise would have been covered by the insurer.

  Our certified technicians assess the extent of  fire damage , including the impact of smoke, heat and residues from  fire and smoke . We will inform property owner, adjuster, and all other interested parties, helping to overcome their loss.  When working with homeowners, we restore hope by explaining what can be saved and how, in a way they can understand what is happening, what to expect, and what they can do.
  If a professional isn't hired to clean smoke and fire damage, the costs for restoration will skyrocket after a few weeks . Metals may need to be replaced, carpet will permanently discolor and glass may be severely etched, which will necessitate replacement. It will also become apparent that the odors caused by the disaster may still be present and intense enough to be distracting. Because ash is acidic, the longer it takes to hire experts, the more destruction it will cause.

  Many spells and environmental effects (such as lava) do Fire damage. The class most associated with the ability to control fire is also the  Mage . Fire is also one of the fundamental elements that Shamans can manipulate with their Totems. To a lesser extent,  Warlocks  can also deliver Fire damage. Warlocks specced heavily into their  Destruction  talent tree are sometimes called "Firelocks". Hunters'  Immolation Trap ,  Explosive Trap  and  Explosive Shot  also deal Fire damage; similarly, explosives and damaging trinkets created by  Engineers  typically do Fire damage.  Mages can absorb Fire damage with  Fire Ward .
  Like other homeowners' insurance claims, filing a  claim  for fire damage or destruction can be complicated. Homeowners must take extra care to document all damages, including damage done to personal belongings and the structure or interior of the home. Insurance companies will need photos or videos of the damage, a written description of the damage, the date of loss, type of loss, general condition of the home, location, any injuries and the police report if applicable.
  Targets other than electrical cables may also be vulnerable to fire damage.  Large, strictly mechanic components (e.g., pipes, check valves, structural supports, tanks, etc.) are not considered vulnerable to fire damage for the purposes of SDP Phase 2 analyses.  Should an issue related to potential fire-induced failures of such elements (e.g., fire-induced collapse of a structure or structural supports) be deemed relevant, the analyst should consult NRC HQ staff for guidance.

  Light bulbs – Light bulbs also have the potential cause smoke and fire damage to your Baltimore or Columbia home. This is something that people are generally aware of but do not fully understand. For example if you insert a light bulb with a higher wattage than its receptor can handle you may be putting your home in danger. It is important that you match wattage capacity to ensure there is no overloading or shorting caused within the lighting mechanism.

  In many cases, the insurer will end up paying for most costs associated with fire damage cleanup or soot removal services.  So we're approved to handle your claim.  That means you don't need to call your insurer first.  Just call us and we can handle the claim.  We can even bill them directly instead of having to bill you and then leave you to get a settlement check from the insurer  So, that all said, the very first tip is to put safety first. While it is important to begin fire damage restoration quickly -- the first 24 hours in fact -- it should not be done by the homeowner or property owner. Have the situation assessed by a professional fire damage restoration company that specializes in emergency service, 24 hours a day.  Furthermore, choose a company that is experienced at working with insurance companies because they will know how to safeguard your claim while reducing further damage to your home that comes with waiting too long to start.

  The last tip is to recognize that fire doesn’t just damage the property. Besides dealing with   fire damage restoration  , it is important to recognize the emotional trauma. While much of this can be mitigated by hiring an expert to handle the property, it may be necessary to talk with a professional to get through the mental restoration, as well.

  If you live in a wooded area, take precautions to help protect your home and property from forest fire damage. Remove from your property things that can fuel a forest fire including leaves, twigs, branches and logs. Roads within the woods can be used as fire breaks so remove branches and other flammable debris from them. It may help to have several sections of garden hose ready to wet the edges of yards and buildings during these hazardous times of year.

  Our  Fire restoration services  will help you remove soot from the property itself. As part of the fire damage restoration process, we also handle the delicate tasks of removing ash from all of your electronics, appliances, books, artwork and important documents. Our  fire and water restoration  services can help you determine what items can be safely restored and what needs be replaced.  Don’t put your family's health at risk. The after effects can create a dangerous environment after fire damage and water damage. We can help you rebuild your home or business structure so you can back to living life as before.  Don’t delay call us today.

  What losses are typically covered under California property insurance? Environmental damage, such as rain and fire damage, and theft are generally covered. In certain cases, your insurance company may offer protection against business interruption as well. This ensures that you will be reimbursed for income lost due to an extended closure. The best types of coverage will protect you not only until reopening, but until your income returns to pre-closure levels.
  Residential and commercial property can fall victim to fire, a small spark can set ablaze a massive structure. Fire damage is a devastating event that leaves owners in shock. The fire damage can be very severe, from complete destruction to terrible smoke damage. This type of damage proves our point we’re always promoting, “it’s never to early to connect with a Public Adjuster.” In many instances of fire damage so many different people get involved, fire department, police, city, neighbors, news media, you should make sure that your Public Adjuster is on the list.

  Major fires sometimes occur in process plants and cause significant losses. Unless a structured approach is used for fire damage assessment, the tendency could be to overestimate the amount of equipment to replace and possibly prolong unit downtime.

  Of course the first concern in the event of a fire is that everyone is safe and secure. In Miami Dade and Broward County fire damage can strike at any moment from different causes. During Florida storms lightening can hit a home causing a fire, electrical fires can strike in many older constructed homes in Miami, cigarettes still are a huge cause of home fires, leaving the stove or other appliances on can cause fires, there are countless of possibilities that can randomly come together causing a fire. Home safety measures should always be followed to avoid fires.

  Fire extinguishers, correctly   used on the type of fire for which they are intended, can have a large   role in stopping major fire damage and dollar losses. When walking by a   fire extinguisher, you'll know that all of the letters and numbers have   specific meanings and why it is located where it is.

  Tree size also influences the degree of susceptibility to fire.  Since larger trees have thicker bark, they are more resistant to fire damage.  Therefore, smaller trees exposed to the same intensity of fire are more likely to be killed or severely damaged  Heat Wave - Heat Wave accounts for the vast majority of damage during phase two. It is an aura-like effect that will hit everyone for fire damage throughout the phase. A fire resist totem or aura should be used to help mitigate as much of this damage as possible. Phase two is considered by many to be one of the most healing-intensive of the four phases because of this ability  Inhaling residual toxic particles in the air and handling objects after a fire can cause illness. Prior to re-entering a structure with fire damage, check with the fire department to ensure it is safe to return. If you have an insurance agent, contact them to receive guidance about how to proceed with the restoration process. Though smoke damage may be a top concern, water damage and the complete loss of valuables can also be a factor.
  In sum, the victims of Southern California's wildfires have recourse against builders whose construction caused or contributed to their fire damage. But they probably no longer have a valid case against builders whose defective construction was not fire-protection-related.
  After you complete the process of creating a set of steps for the protection of your house, the next logical step would be assessing the fire damage occurred to it. To achieve claims in a short span of time, you need to make a careful evaluation of the fire damage to your belongings as well as to your home. Evaluation would make the process smoother and easier for you as well as the insurance company.

  Fire restoration requires a specialized skill and expertise to repair and restore your house. That is why you need a professional help. The fire damage can be overwhelming, but it needs immediate attention.  If you need to add new designs or want an entirely new design please let us know. Give us your ideas and we will make them a reality.

  Even what appears to be a relatively small residential fire often turns out to be much more serious. Residential fires usually involve direct fire damage to all or some portion of the dwelling. Typically, there is additional damage to the structure caused by the heat of the fire, by the smoke and by water. The firefighting process frequently compounds the damage, such as doors or windows broken out to gain entry, or holes cut into roofs or walls to combat the blaze. It all adds up to tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands of dollars.
  Be sure not to throw anything away. Many people make the mistake of tossing things in their homes that are completely ruined, either by smoke or fire damage. Remember that the insurance adjuster will want to see these things to include them in the coverage. It will be easier to prove that you really lost the items on your list if you hold on to them for the insurance adjuster to see. If you throw them away, the insurance company may refuse to compensate you.

   Components and cables protected by a non-degraded fire barrier with a minimum fire endurance rating of two hours will be assumed to invulnerable to fire damage unless the a high-hazard fire source (e.g., a large oil spill or oil-filled transformer) is identified that can result in a direct flame impingement exposure to the fire barrier.

  We understand that your possessions have sentimental as well as extrinsic value and that they are  often impossible to replace. One of our top priorities in fire damage restoration is to save as much of your personal property as possible.

  When a fire damages your condo unit and all the items inside of it, you might assume that everything will be replaced or covered by the condo insurance policy under a fire damage insurance claim. However, not all condominium insurance policies cover personal property. This does not sound fair, as you may not have been the one to even start the fire.

  Recovering from a fire can be a long, stressful process that involves detailed investigation by your insurance company and the assessment of your property by qualified fire damage contractors. Unethical insurance providers may even try to find ways to blame you for the extent of fire damage.

  NOTE: Given a non-spreading fire, and the application of specific cable and component routing information, one may be unable to identify a potentially risk-important set of fire damage targets.  For example, the nearest damage target may prove to be unimportant, and other potentially important damage targets may not lie within the fire ignition source’s zone of influence.  In such cases, the non-spreading fire ignition source may be screened out from further consideration (i.e., in the same context that other fire ignition sources may have been screened out in Step 2.3). The screening check in Step 2.4 (Task 2.4.4) should be repeated if the newly screened out fire ignition source was a significant contributor to the area fire frequency.

NOTE: Even given a spreading fire, with the application of specific cable and component routing information, one may be unable to identify a potentially risk-important set of fire damage targets for a given fire ignition source. This can result in the screening of specific FDS scenarios associated with a given source, or in the screening of a fire ignition source in its entirety.

  Contradictory or confusing indicators are often present close to the fire origin because, at the time they were created, the fire was undeveloped and had not yet established a direction. Fire damage may be close to the ground only and items may be only partially burned in strange ways.
  Finally, with smoker occupied units, there is always the risk of damage to the unit from fires caused by smoking materials.  This can range from damage limited to the unit itself to smoke and fire damage to other units and common areas  in multi-family buildings.  A recent smoking related fire in Vancouver H.A. resulted in more than $1,000,000 in damage to the building.

  One of the biggest damaging elements of a fire are the actual flames that burn everything they touch. However, in some cases, the smoke damage to a structure is as destructive, sometimes even worse so than the fire damage. Smoke damages the physical appearance of a place, but it also leaves behind unpleasant chemically based odors and sticky residue.
  Make sure that you don't do the mistake of turning on your appliances when water is clogged in them. Make a thorough assessment of the wooden furniture and list all the problems involved in it. Make sure that you open the fire damage cabinets and inspect the things inside. Take into account all the dresses, fabrics and even carpets. If you have your own collection of books, CDs and DVDs, ensure that you add them to your fire damage list.

  * Components and cables protected by a fire barrier system with a minimum 1-hour fire protection rating installed as a part of the licensee’s Appendix R III.G.2 separation criteria compliance strategy will be considered as fire damage targets (i.e., are subject to fire-induced failure) only if some aspect of the III.G.2 fire protection strategy is found to be degraded.  The degradation may be associated with any aspect of the licensee’s compliance strategy including the fire barrier itself, the automatic fire suppression system, the automatic fire detection system, or post-fire safe shutdown  The destruction caused by smoke and fire not only wreaks havoc on one's home, but causes devastation to one's life as well. When homeowners have experienced property damage or loss due to a house fire, hiring a professional fire damage restoration company is critical to determine affected areas and expedite smoke removal and fire damage restoration services.

  Fires are among the most frightening property disasters that anyone can experience. Wee cannot take away the terror that you felt when fire threatened your home, but we will do everything in our power to take the stress out of your fire damage restoration process.
  The behavior of a fire depends on air movement and the pattern of smoke. Areas that may appear safe and unharmed can still pose a threat; smoke and fire can permeate into the walls of the structure, resulting in unseen smoke odor and fire damage  Once the structure is deemed to be fit, start form the top of the structure. Document everything right from the attic to the basement. Include the bedrooms as well as the bathrooms. None should be left out. Make sure that you cover the fire damage ceiling and the fire damage caused to the ducts. Look for stains in the ceiling and assess the fire damage caused to the bathtubs and toilets.
  Some homeowners are now choosing to install affordable sprinkler systems in their homes. In the event of a house fire, a sprinkler system, paired with a working smoke alarm system drastically increases the chances of survival and minimal fire damage. Installing sprinklers in a home can also lower one's homeowner's insurance rates, while simultaneously increasing property value.

  Hot Gas Layer Scenarios: If fires involving a specific fire ignition source are of sufficient intensity to cause hot gas layer damage to cables and/or components in the area, then all vulnerable cables and/or components will comprise the fire damage target set. Such target sets will be considered in the context of FDS2 fire scenarios; therefore, components and cables protected by a non-degraded fire barrier system of at least one-hour fire endurance duration will not be considered vulnerable.  All unprotected cable and components will be considered vulnerable.  Damage to cables and components protected by a degraded barrier system will be considered vulnerable consistent with the assigned degradation rating (e.g., based on the time of protection  Damage from fire can be especially difficult to deal with as it there are secondary health concerns from ash, soot, and smoke damage. A prompt response is critical to address these issues. One of the single biggest mistakes made by homeowners in fire damage situations it to wait several days for the area to "cool down." In truth this just makes the recovery effort much harder as the soot and ash has an opportunity to harden and further attach itself to drywall, furniture, and so forth.  The following articles provide essential information to help you prevent fires in your home and recover should a fire occur  Be patient!   Your insurance company may take a long time to process your fire insurance claim.  Do not rush into any settlement or agreement just because you want the process to be over.  Make sure you get the right amount of money to cover the fire damage.

   If your home or office has been hit by fire, give us a call right away and we can get the property boarded up in no time. Properly boarding up your property after fire damage will ensure that your property will be safe from further damage, including theft. If you have any questions about our 24 hour board-up services, feel free to give us a call.

  The recovery of trees begins with an assessment of the damage.  Defoliated and charred trees may not be dead at all.  Time provides the opportunity for the telltale signs of the life and death of a tree and how it should be pruned.  In fact, the best response to fire damage takes patience; three years of assessment and management can provide an effective response period that can lead to a significant recovery.

  The storage, handling and use of flammable and combustible liquids requires effective measures prevent and protect personnel and facilities from fire and explosion.   Experience shows that when safe operating practices and procedures are not followed, flammable and combustible liquids can be a significant fire and explosion hazard exposing facilities to fire damage with a potential for injury to operating personnel.
  The structure, 2,800 square feet was a total loss including all contents. Dollar loss estimates will released when available. At the time of this press release crews were still on scene performing overhaul. Fire overhaul is a systematic approach to ensure all hot spots are extinguished and that the fire is completely extinguished. Due to the roof collapse and extent of fire damage the overhaul process is expected to continue for several more hours.

  Smoke damage occurs primarily because smoke itself contains a mixture of soot, ash, tar, and gases. During a fire, these particles spread widely within a structure and sometimes result in an oily substance being left on walls, furniture, and other objects. Proper removal of soot and particles reduces further damage.

  Smoke can enter and remain in and between the walls of the living space. If it is not properly removed, the smoke odor reoccurs from time to time, particularly during damp periods. Therefore, action should be taken to properly remove all smoke odors.

Smoke odor damage was most effectively treated by the three home laundry methods; there was no significant difference by fiber content as shown in Table 2. The dry cleaning solution did remove a significant amount of odor, but not as effectively as home laundry methods.
  Smoke further complicates the process of repairs. The damaged property has the tendency to produce and smolder smoke for days following the fire. This smoke not only harms the building, but it causes inconvenience to the people living around it. The smoke produced as a result of burning fire or extinguished fire never remains in one place. The smoke spreads out to cooler areas and upper floors. It also enters the ventilation system, air conditioning, plumbing and to other various areas of the building. Getting rid of the smell from the items that have been subjected to smoke is extremely difficult. Our fire damage repair division incorporates the cleanup of the smoke affected areas and items as well.
  Smoke and ash both present their own difficulties. The smell of smoke can penetrate your walls and floors, as well as numerous items in your home and it can be difficult to remove the smell. Ash and soot can adhere to various surfaces and cause additional damage due to the acids and other chemical byproducts present in burned materials.

  A smoke alarm is an inexpensive and effective way to begin safeguarding one's home against potential house fires. They can be purchased at most big box and/or hardware stores and are easy to install throughout the home. With proper maintenance and upkeep, it is said that a working smoke alarm can double one's chance of survival in the case of a fire. It's important to get into the habit of testing your smoke alarms on a monthly basis and keep them clean, free of dust and particles that may interfere with the alarm's functionality. Each brand of smoke alarm might be a bit different; but as a general rule it is suggested that the alarm be replacedevery ten years.

  Wet smoke      - usually results from a low heat or smoldering fire. The smoke from a wet      fire has a pungent odor and a sticky, smeary texture  Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.    Smoke flows through plumbing systems, using holes around pipes to go from floor to floor.    Depending on the type of smoke, it will greatly affect the restoration process.

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

  Test smoke detectors:  They can save your life, but only if you keep them alive. Change their batteries twice a year, but it doesn’t stop there. Regularly test to see if they are functioning properly

Wood smoke contains tiny particles of often-carcinogenic material,  water  vapor, toxic gases and other volatile organic compounds.  Wood smoke contains tiny particles of often-carcinogenic material,  water  vapor, toxic gases and other volatile organic compounds. Some of the VOCs may include  carbon monoxide , carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and formaldehyde.
  Fire and smoke damage should be treated with extreme caution. Do not enter the damaged site. Fires can rekindle from hidden, smoldering remains.
  Fire and smoke damage is a very particular problem and requires more work than just simply washing down surfaces. Smoke gets heavily into hard surfaces such as floors and walls and if it's not dealt with immediately, will linger for many years no matter how often you clean them.
  The smell of smoke can penetrate furniture, furnishings and inventory in homes and businesses near the site of the actual fire. Insurance companies would rather pay for cleaning your property than compensating you for the cost of replacement. But in most cases, cleaning is sufficient to remove the full damage. We hold insurance companies accountable for replacing your damaged property — per the terms of the policy.

  Fire damage, smoke and odor contamination in your home or business can be devastating and overwhelming. It can affect all surfaces throughout the property, including furniture, flooring, metals, silver, crystal and even stainless steel fixtures. In addition, the residues left behind after a structure fire or smoke damage event usually contains toxic, carcinogenic residues. Immediate effects often include respiratory problems (nose, throat, and lungs), eye irritation and/or exacerbation of pre-existing medical conditions. The emotional effects of fire or smoke damage can be intense, especially when sentimental personal items are damaged or destroyed.  We know and handle the delicate nature of fire damage restoration with compassion and the professional care you deserve.

  Fire damage, smoke damage and even water damage from fire-fighting efforts can worsen quickly. The sooner you can get the property cleaned up and restored, the less it will cost. Abbotts fire restoration experts know how to work with insurance adjustors to help them quickly and accurately assess and document your damage. In turn, this helps us get started on your cleanup and repairs quickly  Recheck for smoke and sparks throughout the home, including the attic for several hours. The winds of wildfires can blow burning embers anywhere. Keep checking your home for embers that could cause fires.
  Treat smoke damaged (dry) materials by initially airing then send to a conservation lab for ozone treatment  Odor caused by smoke lingers long after a fire is extinguished. When working with a restoration professional, ozone treatments – or "counteractants" – may be used to efficiently remove odors and smoke particles from textiles. Furthermore, some professionals offer "thermal fogging," a service that helps remove odors that remain inside the building.
  Breathing in wood smoke for a prolonged period of  time  can cause a scratchy throat, coughing, irritated sinuses, headaches, runny nose, stinging, irritated eyes, and worse. People with diseases such as chronic bronchitis, asthma, or other respiratory challenges may find symptoms worsening.
  Know how to handle smoke and soot damage after a fire.   If you do make the decision to clean up yourself, be aware that soot and smoke damage might be significant and often creates a film on the walls. There will also be residue from the extinguishers used by the fire crew  Listed or approved smoke detectors include ionization type, photoelectric beam or spot type, infrared type, and others. It is possible, if necessary, for these early warning systems to activate associated fire-extinguishing systems. Such smoke detectors should be considered part of the overall system in any important records collection where a smoldering fire is possible.

Properly installed, smoke detectors can detect smoke particles in very early stages of fire in the areas where they are located. The selection of a particular detector or mixture of detectors should be based on building and fire-load conditions by a fire protection specialist.

  When attempting to remove smoke odor from textiles yourself, expect to soak clothing, draperies, and other fabrics overnight in a solution of one cup automatic dishwashing soap to one gallon of water. Some items may need to be washed multiple times to completely remove odors. Changing air filters daily can also help reduce the amount of post-fire particles lurking in the air, and can reduce troublesome odors over time.

  Controlling the spread of smoke throughout the structure by ventilating, and shutting doors to rooms, will aid in controlling smoke damage throughout the structure. Salvage covers shall be spread throughout the building in area of high foot traffic to protect floors.

  Fire creates two types of smoke damage — the  visible soot  and the  invisible odor . Because each fire is different, it is not possible to provide one set of guidelines for removing soot and odor. For example, smoke odor from wood could react differently to certain cleaning products than smoke odor from plastics. It usually is difficult for inexperienced home owners to remove soot and smoke odors without professional assistance or advice.
  Be sure you have plenty of smoke detectors. While this may not prevent a fire from starting, it can quickly alert you to one's presence and could save both your life and your home.

  An added problem is that the smoke that lingers can also be quite different, with one fire leaving far more toxins in the air than another. It is not safe to enter a building after a fire without determining if there is a health risk in doing so. This is even true when there is only a small fire and everything looks clean. The size of a smoke particle is so tiny that it cannot be seen by the naked eye, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t there.

  These professionals can clean smoke damage and restore items affected by a fire, but they must be brought to the site as soon as possible to halt the ongoing issues that ash residue can cause . The first thing that ash does to the home is discolor most surfaces. Anything that is made of plastic or was close to the fire will start discoloring within minutes, and within several hours, fiberglass and finishes on appliances will begin to yellow. Metals may also tarnish. After a few days pass, the ash will cause walls to discolor permanently, along with clothing and upholstery. Wood and vinyl will need to be refinished or replaced, and metal will start corroding.
  Do not stay in the area while smoke smell is present without proper respiratory protection. Smoke particles can stay in the air for days after a fire, and should be filtered for your health and safety if you must be in the affected areas.

  Maintain all battery operated smoke alarms.  Make sure that you change the batteries. The daylight saving time change is always a good reminder to check/change the batteries in your smoke alarm.

  To effectively remove soot and smoke damage from household textile items such as carpet, draperies and upholstered furniture, it is necessary to use the appropriate chemicals, the right equipment and judgment that comes from experience. Professional fire restorers, properly trained, have the knowledge and materials to refurbish household textiles after a fire.

Household vents and ducts trap smoke odors. During a fire, smoke drifts through the ducts and becomes lodged on the sides. Since it may be impossible to clean the ducts; some professional fire restorers will use a chemical sealer to secure smoke permanently to the sides of the ducts. This procedure prevents smoke odors from drifting in the air at a later time.
  Fire damage, including odor and smoke destruction, in your home or business can be widespread and overwhelming. It can affect every kind of surface, including furniture, carpeting, faucets, and even stainless steel fixtures. In addition,   fire can release toxins into the environment causing eye irritation, respiratory aggravation, or making existing medical conditions worse.   And the emotional effects of fire damage can be equally as harmful, particularly when treasured personal effects are marred or lost. We understand the delicate nature of fire damage restoration, and intend to handle your situation with the utmost care and compassion, simplifying the recovery process as much as possible.

  Hiring a professional water and smoke damage remediation service is important for restoring a home after a fire. Professional companies can provide immediate assistance once entry is allowed back into the premises. These companies understand the permits and inspections that are required in your area and will work in accordance to all building regulations and codes.

  In many cases, potentially toxic smoke is the most dangerous part of structure fires. It’s that smoke, trapped and concentrated in the burning structure, that can saturate even parts of the structure that didn’t burn, contaminating every article of clothing, every piece of furniture, every child’s stuffed toy with potentially allergenic or toxic smoke particles. The smoke particles are microscopic, so they are hard to remove, requiring specialized techniques and equipment.

  Where there's fire, there's usually smoke. Although experts do their best to contain a fire, they are all but helpless in controlling the billowing clouds of smoke that fire creates.  Prevailing winds can push this smoke hundreds of miles from its origin, blanketing distant communities with a dirty haze that can last for days, lowering air quality and creating a menace to civilization.
  This research suggests that visible smoke and odor damaged cotton, polyester and polyester/cotton blend fabrics be washed in warm water with a liquid detergent such as Era for one to five launderings. As bleach may have a damaging effect on the fabric color or fiber content, liquid detergent would be better. Dry cleaning did not effectively remove the visible soil nor odor resulting from fire damage as did the home cleaning techniques and would add unnecessarily to the cleaning costs.

  Flames are one thing. But, often, the smoke damage and water used to extinguish the fire causes the most damage and destruction. Smoke and chemical particles cling to everything in sight, penetrate walls and flooring, and leave behind heavy odors. To minimize secondary effects of smoke and  water damage , professional restoration services are critical

We use a thorough process when evaluating smoke and fire damage. We identify the type of smoke that has saturated your structure, determine the type of fire that has taken place, and outline what kind of fire damage   We use a thorough process when evaluating smoke and fire damage. We identify the type of smoke that has saturated your structure, determine the type of fire that has taken place, and outline what kind of fire damage restoration or rebuilding needs to be done.  Salvage operations most often involve early smoke removal and covering building contents with salvage covers or plastic. In some cases, the contents of all threatened areas, where appropriate, can be removed to a safe location. When removal is not practical, contents should be grouped in the center of rooms, raised off of the floor and covered to provide maximum practical protection.

  We use professional methods to eliminate the smoke and soot residue inside your home and the heating and ventilation duct work. Soot is an oily substance that occurs from the incomplete combustion of flame and will linger after a fire creating odors and possible health risks. Sometimes the use of an ozone generator will be necessary to chemically break down the smoke molecules in the ducts, ducts will continue to spread soot through the house after restoration efforts unless professionally cleaned  The most common hidden damage after a fire is smoke damage. Not all smoke damage is readily apparent. Most people think that all smoke is the same, but that is not the case. Depending on what material was burning, smoke damage can be visible or not, odorous or not, and can have varying degrees of toxicity. For your house to return to a normal state it is imperative that all smoke deposits be thoroughly removed or the odors can return and the toxicity can continue to do damage to respiratory health.

  COMMON MYTHS ABOUT FIRE SPRINKLER PROTECTION Myth "A smoke detector provides enough protection." Fact Smoke detectors save lives by providing a warning system but can do nothing to extinguish a growing fire or protect those physically unable to escape on their own, such as the elderly or small children. Too often, battery-operated smoke detectors fail to function because the batteries are dead or have been removed. As the percent of homes in America that were "protected" with smoke detectors increased from zero to more than 70 percent, the number of fire deaths in homes did not significantly decrease.

  Any food, beverages and/or medicines exposed to heat or smoke should not be consumed. If the materials were in tightly closed or sealed containers, or in air-tight refrigerators or freezers, they may be salvageable. Consult with local health representatives for specific guidance and recommendations regarding the consumption of foods that may appear to be safe. It is wiser to replace these items than to jeopardize your health by taking a chance  After a fire, homes may be damaged from both the flames and smoke of the blaze. Walls, windows and carpets may need to be washed or replaced and walls may need to be repainted. Even upholstered furniture may need to be washed or repaired. Sadly, sometimes a fire entirely consumes a home, in which case homeowners must not only rebuild, but also replace their lost belongings.

  During a fire, the heat will expand pores in the walls and fill the pores with smoke. After the fire, the house cools, the pores close and trap the smoke odor. On warm days the pores will open and release the trapped smoke odor, which could settle on furnishings. Professional fire restorers can eliminate the smoke odor with a process called thermal fogging, which opens the pores in the walls and neutralizes the smoke odor. There is probably no process a home owner could use that would work as effectively as thermal fogging.
  Review Chapter 17, Element 19 (Smoke Management and Air Quality) of the Red Book.  Identify any smoke sensitive areas that could be impacted by the project such as non-attainment areas, transportation corridors, Class I Areas, schools, etc.  Describe efforts to comply with State and local air quality regulations including permitting, modeling and reporting requirements.  Identify those smoke management techniques that will be applied to minimize the amount of smoke produced and/or minimize the impact to smoke sensitive areas (reference the Smoke Management Guide for Prescribed and Wildland Fire 2001 Edition).  If needed, provide details and applicable forms in an appendix.
  Fortunately, most homeowners' insurance policies cover damage and destruction caused by fires and smoke, including wildfires like the one in Washington this fall. Policies may even cover personal items lost in the blaze as well as the cost of temporary housing while a home is being repaired. However, limits on coverage and deductibles vary widely from policy to policy, so homeowners should always read and understand their policies before a disaster strikes.

  Household deodorizing products are temporary relief methods. Deodorizing with perfumes, aerosol sprays, and disinfectants generally only mask the smoke odor. The smoke odor will still remain after the spray or perfume evaporates. In addition, deodorizing sprays may interact with smoke odor and create an additional odor.
  Each year fires cause $8.6 billion in direct property loss. According to FEMA, fires can engulf a property within a period of five minutes. Heat and smoke from fire can be more dangerous than the flames themselves. Secondary damages such as smoke and soot can cause costly repairs as well.
  The U.S. Fire Administration reports that more than 350,000 residential structure fires occur in the United States each year. A homeowner's guide to smoke and water damage provides tips for restoring the home after a fire, safeguarding important documents and hiring a remediation service.

  Baking soda not only removes the visual damage during the blasting process, but the natural sterilizing properties of baking soda work to get rid of the "smell" associated with the damage. Fire, smoke and ash are typically at the high end of the pH scale, where baking soda works quickly in soaking up and neutralizing odor.
Smoke may enter the ductwork system and affect an entire house.  It can enter and remain in and between the walls of the living space.  It is an acidic byproduct of fire capable of corroding and staining surfaces such as walls and counters.