Christmas Tree Fire Hazard

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

If you had a real Christmas tree growing up you may have heard about the potential fire hazard they bring, but why? These are the top 3 reasons according to the National Fire Protection Association. The number one reason is that 44% of Christmas tree fires are caused by faulty electrical distribution or lighting equipment. Make sure to check your lights each year for any damaged bulbs and avoid using extension cords. The second reason is that a heat source, such as a candle or space heater, were too close to the tree. Always check the area around your tree, as well as anything flammable near your candles and space heaters. Additionally, 44% of holiday decoration fires are caused by a heat source. The third Christmas tree fire cause is due to intentionally set fires. Make sure if you are going to burn your Christmas tree, that it is done safely outside away from any structures, trees, or other flammable materials. If you happen to experience a fire in your home whether it is due to a Christmas tree, holiday decor, or cooking, give us a call!

Another Dry Fire Season

11/7/2019 (Permalink)

As Southern California enters its fall and winter season, many fires have already engulfed the area. We haven't had much rain in the past 7 months, raising the danger for wildfires extremely high. The dry ground and Santa Ana winds combined are a dangerous combo. Additionally, the Santa Ana winds bring dry air. The risk of wildfires is expected to remain high for the rest of the year, according to the National Weather Service's (NWS) Wildland Fire Potential Outlook, which forecasts "above normal significant wildfire potential" for November and December in parts of Northern and Southern California. Although we are out of a drought water-storage wise, the land is critically dry. Luckily San Diego hasn't experienced an extreme fire since The Witch Fire in 2007. However many people in LA County live in the wild lands that are susceptible to wind-whipped fires.

Smoke Alarms Save Lives

10/6/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms play a crucial role in saving lives, and when properly installed and maintained, can reduce the risk of fire deaths and injuries in half. The National Fire Protection Association recommends that smoke alarms be installed in the following places:

• every bedroom
• outside all sleeping quarters
• on each level of the home

Smoke alarms will help alert you to a fire but it is also a good idea to have a fire escape plan. A plan will allow your family, employees or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation. Don't forget to also practice this drill twice a year/

Smoke Alarm Safety Tips

• Smoke alarms shouldn't be installed in a kitchen because they can prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance. 
• Make it a monthly habit to test smoke alarms by pressing the "test" button. 
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm "chirps", don't be tempted to remove it and put it in a closet. This means the battery is low and needs to be replaced right away.
• When smoke alarms are 10 years old they should be replaced.

Fire Damage Dos and Dont's

6/10/2019 (Permalink)

The most frequently asked question we have from our clients with fire and smoke damage is "What do I do until help arrives?"
Safety is always the number one priority for everyone involved, from resident to property manager to service providers. If at any time a situation feels unsafe, trust your instincts and wait until help arrives to take care of the damage.
If the circumstances are safe, the following emergency tips will assisy you in taking the proper action until your service provider arrives.

Fire & Smoke Damage

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.
• If the electricity is off, empty freezer and leave the door open to prevent odor buildup.
• Gently wash the leaves of house plants.

DON'T:

• Consume any food or drinks that were stored near the fire, whether sealed or not the heat could penetrate the packaging causing it to spoil.
• DIY clean the rugs, upholstery, clothing, or soft goods. Leave it to the professionals to clean the soot and odor from these materials.
• Attempt to wipe down the walls/ceiling without consulting a professional first.