Recent Fire Damage Posts

WHAT TO DO IF YOU EXPERIENCE FIRE DAMAGE TO YOUR HOME!

10/9/2023 (Permalink)

Image of house fire in Redding, CA SERVPRO of North Shasta cleaning up fire damage to home.

Experiencing fire damage to your home can be overwhelming. Smoke damage to your belongings, soot covering your furniture, water damage to your floors, and gross, what is that smell? Fire damage cleanup is not for the faint of heart. 

A fire in your home can cause extensive damage and shouldn't be something you walk alone. That is why you should call the professionals! SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity, and Greater Tehama Counties professional technicians and staff are ready to walk you through the process step by step. With a five-star Google rating and serving the community for over 30 years, SERVPRO of North Shasta should be your first choice! 

Here are a few facts and steps we find helpful to start the fire cleanup process!

  1. Make sure your Fire Department considers the property safe before entering your house or boarding up your windows, doors, or roof. Professional fire restoration and cleanup companies should offer a board-up service to help keep the outside elements from getting in and protect from vandalism or more damage to your property. Making this the first step SERVPRO of North Shasta takes at every fire damage job. 
  1.  The smoke smell, even though it can be overwhelming, has probably been absorbed into the fabric of your couches, cabinets, and walls. But don't fear! This can be cleaned and rectified with the right tools. When interviewing your local restoration and cleanup companies, ask what equipment and deodorization agents the company uses. SERVPRO is proud to use the most advanced restoration technology and has created its own high-power solvents. 
  1. Air quality can be frightening and can cause concern when it comes to moving back in. Cue the Airscrubbers. Air scrubbers remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup. If your restoration company isn't using these, call SERVPRO of North Shasta immediately! 

For more steps to take if you have experienced a fire in your home, check out our list

Remember, it is possible to salvage your property after a fire in your home. SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity, and Greater Tehama Counties is ready to help you with your belongings, home, and peace of mind. You are our neighbor, and we care about our family! 

Fire damage isn't easy to repair, but a professional service will be with you every step of the way! Let us help restore your life and help with your cleanup and restoration! 

Call us today! 530-222-0200



Why Should You Call a Professional for Smoke Damage to Your Home?

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

This is a kitchen in Redding, California that had smoke damage on the walls and ceiling.

Olfaction is "the act or process of smelling," according to Merriam-Webster Dictionary. As humans, we have the ability to detect very distinct smells. On average, 80 million unique scents, to be exact, according to neurobiologist Leslie Vosshall of Rockefeller University in New York City. 

Pet urine, garbage, manure, sewage, mildew, and sweat, undesirable odors are in our everyday life, and the findings of Alan Hirsch, MD, could make that disheartening. He found, "Odors can induce reverberating circuits which can persist even after you left the smell." - Smell & Taste Research Foundation. But what if the smell is in your home and you can't get it out? 

The odor from a house fire or wildfire is "caused by tiny microscopic particles that cling to walls, furniture, floors, clothing, and other items inside your home." - Gina Peek, OSU. This makes removal of that pesky smoke smell harder than just lighting a candle or spraying an air room freshener. Getting rid of the smoke smell is not simply cosmetic and often requires professionals. However, The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends these few steps to help remove the smell of smoke. Such as washing or dusting household items, laundering clothes, disinfecting and deodorizing all carpets, and have heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning units and all ductwork professionally cleaned. They also recommend contacting professionals for your and your family's safety.

Can you say Soot?

Soot is one of the main reasons to call a professional if you have had a house fire or been close to a wildfire. Soot can be very toxic and can travel throughout your home. SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity, and Greater Tehama Counties has specialized equipment to remove smoke and soot from your walls, ceilings, and surfaces of all your possessions. We have technicians trained to clean and restore your items and home, removing the dangers and smells back to pre-fire conditions.

One of the many tools SERVPRO of North Shasta uses is portable air scrubbers. Air scrubbers remove contaminants from the air inside your home, killing harmful pathogens. This will help with the health and quality of your air, but also help remove the stench of smoke. Let's just say after SERVPRO finishes cleaning smoke damage from your home, you will be lighting candles for pleasure, not covering up bad smells. 

We often associate smells with memories, and we believe those memories should be filled with joy, baked goods, and laughter. If you have experienced a house fire or smoke damage to your home, call us at 530-222-0200. We will help get those good smells back into your home. 



Pet Fire Safety: Important Tips!

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

Pet enjoying the fireplace in Redding California.

Pets are extended family to some of us. They eat with us, sleep with us, and we couldn't imagine doing life without them. That's why pet fire safety is the main topic today. After all, they give us so much. This is just one way to give back. 

According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly 1,000 home fires (each year) are started by pets. Accidentally of course! But there are a few ways we can keep our pets and house safe by a few preventative steps. 

  • Open Flames
  • Pets are curious and love to investigate and be around us. Extinguish any open flames when you aren't there to supervise. Including candles, fireplaces, and cooking appliances. Unattended pets with open flames could be a recipe for disaster. 
  • Space Heaters
  • Pets love to find places to stay warm and curl up next to space heaters. With fur being an accelerant for fire, make sure to turn off any space heaters before leaving the house. 
  • Stove Knobs
  • The American Cross recommends the removal of knobs before leaving the house, but stove knob covers work just as well. You can find them at any local hardware store and is an easy step to keep you and your house safe. 
  • Glass Bowls
  • Have a glass bowl on your wood deck outside? During the summer months, switch to plastic or ceramic. Have you ever tried the science experiment where you use a magnifying glass to burn a hole on paper? Yes, it's kind of like that. 
  • Window Decals
  • Recently SERVPRO of North Shasta created "Custom Emergency Rescue Window Decals," where you can list how many pets you have located inside your home. Applying these to your glass door or front window can help first responders know how many pets to find in case of a house fire. If you live in the Redding, California area, you can pick one of these up at the Golden Palooza Event on September 18, 2022. 
  • Evacuation Plan
  • Remember your pets when coming up with your evacuation plan in case of a house or wildfire. It's always good to remember where your pet likes to hide when they don't feel safe and assign a specific family member to your pets in case an evacuation is needed. 


If you have experienced fire or smoke damage to your home, we know it's a traumatic event, and handling all the details to clean up, rebuild, and restore, is a major process. SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity, & Greater Tehama Counties is here to help you through the process. We treat every event with white gloves and an entire staff who cares. We are your local fire damage restoration company. Give us a call today! 530-222-0200

5 Fire Safety Tips for Kids

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Kid in Firmean Costume showing 5 Fire Safety Tips for Kids.

Fire safety tips for children are cool year-round. 

Disasters can happen at any moment, which is why you should take preventative measures to educate your child. 

Here are 5 simple fire safety tips to keep your children safe and prepared! 

  • Know Where to Go

Grab some construction paper, glue, and some markers and make a map of your house. This can be a fun creative exercise for you and your children. Start with their bedroom, making sure to map out all windows and doors, creating two exit plans out of every room. Continue with the rest of the house until all exit plans have been discussed and highlighted. Here is a fun how-to example of a fire safety map for your house. 

  • Fire Safety Dance

STOP, DROP, AND ROLL! All the cool kids know this dance! We may have learned this fire safety tip in school, but practice makes perfect. First, teach the details of why and how to do this exercise. Remind them to cover their face and stop, drop, and roll. Second, grab that favorite funky song your children play on repeat and create a fun fire safety dance using your new moves. 

  • Get Low Low Low 

How low can you go? Did you know according to the National Fire Protection Association, smoke inhalation is the number one harmful cause to humans during a house fire. Teaching kids to go low when they see smoke can be as easy as playing a good game of LIMBO. Tell your children the stick is smoke and see how low they can get. 

  • Create Boundaries!

Create boundaries with candles, matches, stoves, fire pits, or grills. According to First Alert, cooking is the number one cause of house fires. Don't just say no, but take advantage of educating your kids on the proper usage of your stove. Ever seen Chopped Junior? Grab some random items in your kitchen and see what good-tasting masterpiece you and your family can create. Simultaneously, teaching safety tips on how unattended stoves are unsafe. 

  • What is that Sound?
  • In your House, install smoke detectors on every level and outside of every bedroom. 
  • Monthly check your smoke detectors. Fema recommends replacing the batteries every year and replacing the entire smoke detector every 10 years. 
  • Allow your kids to be present when testing the smoke alarm. The sound should represent the starting of a race. How quickly can you exit the house when you hear this sound? Creating a fun game, can keep the anxiety and fear down since it is such a loud noise. 

Fire Safety doesn't have to be boring! Get creative and be prepared. 

If you do happen to experience fire damage to your home, give the certified local specialist SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity, and Greater Tehama Counties a call. We are here 24/7, 365 days a year. We care about you, your family, and your property. 


Call us: 530-222-0200 or get more info here.

Not all Smoke is Created Equal.

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

Image of a campfire with smoke in Northern California.

Summer nights in Redding, California are often filled with camping trips, star gazing, cliff jumping, and campfires. The great outdoors calls people. It beckons them to conquer the unknown and live off the land like our ancestors, even if it is just for the weekend. Campfires create memories where recited stories frighten the kids and make them jump at every creak in the distance. Campfires bring people together. Campfires stick with you your clothes, kids, blankets, and hair; the smoke knows no boundaries. It can also find its way into your lungs. 

The question begs, is campfire smoke harmful to you to breathe?

According to vox.com, "The entire process of a fire is about tearing a log into as many pieces as possible. The tearing releases chemical bonds, expending energy as heat and light." Releasing chemicals from a campfire may include Benzene and Formaldehyde. Fumes from gasoline, crude oil, and cigarette smoke all include benzene. High exposure to this chemical could cause damage to the immune system. 

But wait! Don't cancel your campfire fun just yet. 

Here are a few tips to keep yourself healthy around the fire! 

  • Only Burn Wood

Untreated dry wood is the best to burn. It will produce the least amount of smoke, therefore creating less exposure. Keep plastics, paper, adhesives, railroad ties, and even wood from a construction site out of the fire. All of them contain harmful and toxic chemicals when burned. 

  • Keep your fire small. 

Small fires not only produce less smoke but also have the smallest impact on the environment. Only keep your fire burning when you are using it. 

  • Sit away and downwind of the fire. 

All of us have been there before; You are cozying up next to the campfire when suddenly, a waft of smoke engulfs you. The tip to remember is if the wind shifts, so should you.

Musical chairs anyone? 

  • Keep exposure to smoke and fire down to a minimum. 

The most common side effects of smoke are burning eyes, a runny nose, cough, phlegm, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Limiting your exposure to smoke can protect your health, especially if you have underlying conditions. 

It's important to remember not all exposure comes from campfires but from secondhand smoke, house fires, wildfires, etc.

Did you know smoke from a house fire can be some of the most harmful to breathe? The fuel for home fires contains synthetic materials, plastics, and metals, creating very toxic smoke and ash to breathe if enclosed in a confined space. This is why it's important to follow these health safety tips, when cleaning up ash, to help reduce how much pollution you are breathing in. 

Don't want to chance it? Call the professionals! 

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity, and Greater Tehama Counties can help remove the toxins and purify the air in your home.

We have Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician certified in

  • Odor Control
  • Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning
  • Water Damage
  • Fire & Smoke Damage

There are many things in life to cause worry. Your health due to exposure to ash and smoke shouldn't be one of them.  

Don't chance exposure to harmful chemicals when your local SERVPRO is here! 

Call 530-222-0200



Why live in Northern California during wildfire season?

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

Image of a burning wildfire in Shasta County, CA. Where SERVPRO of North Shasta is number one in Fire Restoration and Cleanup!

Do people ask why you live in a state that ranks the highest, in the nation, for wildfires? They do if you live in California. In 2021, 2,233,666 acres burned in California, outranking the next in line, Oregon, coming in hot at 828,777 acres. Do the math, California wildfires burned 1,404,889 acres more than any other state in America. 

So let me try to explain. Imagine buying a new computer at your local electronics store. You get it home, fire it up, and a beautiful stock photo of a mountain appears as your background. Chances are the glass-like lake with the snow-capped mountains in the background belongs to this state. Even the biggest critics would take their chances of surviving a wildfire season with just one opportunity to stroll around Lassen National Park. The beauty of Northern California is worn like a badge by local residents, but so are the fears and scars of Fire Season. As the Summer months approach, the threat of wildfires grows, which traditionally peak between July and October, creating a very slim timeline for everyone in Shasta County to prepare for the season. Cal Fire, including Redding firefighters, train all year, gearing up to protect our structures, forests, and lands. With 3,629 structures burned in 2021, this can be a daunting task. Superheroes look a lot like firefighters in California. 

Community is Strong

One thing we have discovered, during a crisis, we come together. We have seen the devastation of wildfire season time and time again, but as a community, we rise. Choosing Andra Day's "Rise Up" as this community's anthem, we become the guardians of these precious lands, a call we don't take lightly. 

"One day, you will find someone that chooses you and continues to choose you every day, and that's when you will be thankful for everything that happened the way it did." - Anonymous Quote

From local residents to local business owners, we see wildfire season as a time to put differences aside and time to come together. SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity, and Greater Tehama Counties is one such local business. Specializing in fire restoration and cleanup, we have been in the community for over 20 years. Local firefighters train all year, but so do SERVPRO technicians. We are certified, trained, and ready 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, to be ready for our community when it needs us. If a fire affects your home or business structure, our first step is to assess and inspect any fire damage, followed by boarding up or creating roof tarps for your home or business. This creates a barrier to the outside world, protecting your belongings from any more damage from natural elements or vandalism. The removal, cleanup, and restoration process then begins. Remember we are local, we have seen the devastation of Shasta County fire season, and know how to walk you through each step of the process.  

Here at SERVPRO, we love our beautiful land and the people that call it home. The outside world might not understand why we choose to build homes and businesses in the state with the most wildfires, but it just means they haven't seen it! 

We are local strong!

Come see the beauty of Shasta County, California! 

Call us today if you need us! 530-222-0200

5 Easy Steps to Participate in National Burn Awareness Week.

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Stove topped turned on to show the safety of cooking in support for National Burn Awareness Week.

The first week in February marks the start of National Burn Awareness Week, and if you are a Shasta County resident you know how fire prevention and knowledge can save lives.  We have included 5 easy steps you can take to stay better prepared and participate in keeping our State, City, and your home safe. 

  • Watch Your Stove. This year the National Burn Awareness Week is focusing on staying safe while cooking. 
    • According to the NFPA cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries. You can help prevent home fires by staying in the kitchen when you fry, grill, or broil your food. And try to keep a special eye on the kitchen around the holidays, as Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day are the leading peak days for home cooking fires. 
  • Keep Children at least 3 feet away from the stove. It is a natural phenomenon how fast kids can grab, stick, or pull over something that could hurt them. Their stealthiness could be packaged as "how to be a ninja." But as much as their dad is proud of their new and acclaimed disappearing act, We can keep them safe by following these few safety tips while cooking.
    • Cook on the back burners when possible. 
    • Don’t allow kids to play with the oven, on or off. 
    • Purchase knob covers for your stove, keeping children from being able to turn on the stove. 
  • Own or have access to a fire extinguisher. 
    • Most local Shasta County hardware stores carry portable, residential, and commercial extinguishers. Fema recommends after the purchase of your fire extinguisher, you familiarize yourself with how the product works, along with the needed maintenance required to keep your fire extinguisher working properly. 
    • Always keep your fire extinguisher easily accessible. 
  • Have a smoke detector in every room and every level of your house. 
    • We have all heard that smoke detectors could save lives, but did you know that 3 out of the 5 deaths in house fires were caused by not having a smoke detector or a working smoke detector? Here is a quick video you can follow on how to properly install a smoke detector in your home bringing peace of mind that you and your family are safe. 
  • Stay Alert and have an evacuation plan. 
    • Creating an evacuation plan together is a great way to keep your kids active and knowledgeable in case of a fire. Drawing a detailed map of your house using crayons, colored pencils, or markers can help bring some fun to a serious conversation. X marks the spot when it comes to creating two exits out of each room including windows and doors. Sometimes we only have minutes to escape our homes, being well-prepared could potentially save lives. 

During this week, let's all do our part in becoming more educated and equipped in how to take a few extra steps in the kitchen to keep us and the ones we love safe. Check out the American Burn Association for more tips on how to keep your next cooking adventure fun and safe for all. 

If you are in the Redding area and have experienced any fire damage to your home give us a call! 

530-222-0200



3 tips to prevent an indoor fire

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

If have experienced fire damage, call us today. We would love to help! 530-222-0200

The weather is cooling down in Redding, Shasta County, and the surrounding areas, and we are transitioning our activities indoors. While getting out of the cold is needed, our activity indoors can create the potential for fire damage in your home or business. Often it is the little things we overlook and take for granted that can ignite a fire. Here are 3 tips to prevent an indoor fire

Surge Protector

Forty-seven thousand electrical fires are reported annually. Many of them happen from an electrical surge. Each appliance needs a certain amount of electricity, and if the electricity needed is more than the wall plug can give, then an electrical fire has the potential to start. Often this happens when multiple appliances are plugged into the same wall plug. A great way to help lower the risk, and promote electrical safety, is to use a surge protector when needing multiple appliances at once. 

Smoke Detector

According to the NFPA, Forty-one percent of annual fire deaths in property were attributed to not having a smoke alarm. Many of you may have heard about the Kidde smoke detectors recalled, which points to the importance of checking your smoke detector. It may seem like a simple task, but proper function can greatly minimize the damage and possibly save a life.

Appliance Maintainance 

Appliance fires caused by malfunctions are the highest from November to February. That accounts for 39% of fires annually. The colder months are upon us, and it may be a good idea to check the appliances we use most. Space heaters and appliances with a heating element should be maintained before use for the winter. 

If you are in Redding, Shasta County, or the surrounding areas, and have experienced fire damage, call us today. We would love to help!

530-222-0200

Redding wildfire smoke cleanup

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

if wildfires or wildfire smoke has affected your Shasta county home or business, contacts us today! 530-222-0200

With the many wildfires, we have been experiencing, residents of Shasta County and the surrounding areas may be left questioning what to do. From smoke damage to clean-up and insurance coverage, how to proceed can become confusing. In all that we do, our intentions are not only to restore property but also peace of mind. Here are a few tips that we hope will do just that!

Soot cleanup

Depending on how close your home was to the wildfire, soot can become a very damaging issue. Soot can be very acidic, and if it stays too long on your belongings, can permanently damage them. Also, trying to remove soot with water and soap can cause it spread, damaging a larger area. There are specially made “chem sponges” that need to be used before any other cleaning is done to the area.



How to know if you need cleaning

There may be times when you are unsure if professional cleaning for your home or business is necessary. One sure sign is a lingering smoke smell. Over time, the inhalation of smoke particles can become hazardous to your health, and the smell of smoke can create an unpleasant atmosphere. If you are unsure, contact a professional, and they can assess the extent of cleaning necessary.



Will your insurance cover the damage

Typically homeowners insurance will cover smoke damage from a wildfire, but if you live in an area that is prone to wildfire damage, it may not. It is always good to stringently read through your policy and make sure it covers wildfire damage. If you are still unsure, a restoration professional can come to your home or business and take a swab with a dry chem sponge to see if an insurance company will cover the damage.



If wildfires have caused damage to your Redding home or business, contact us today. We woud love to help!

530-222-0200

Smoke Damage Cleanup Tips

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

If you need fire damage or smoke damage restoration, contact us today! 530-222-0200

With the unrelenting summer heat and wildfires seemingly all around us, the smoke has a much higher chance of infiltrating our homes. From unwanted odors to damaging effects, smoke damage cleanup can be a valuable asset for you. Here are some tips to help as you navigate through the smokey air this season

Baking soda in bowls

Baking soda holds tremendous usage and versatility. When it comes to odors, surprisingly, it does a great job fighting against them. Baking soda is a ph neutralizer and can absorb the smells it contacts. One great idea to help rid your home of the smell of smoke is to put baking soda in bowls and place them around your home. 

Clean out HVAC filters

HVAC units are extremely efficient at moving air around your home. The units draw air from outside of your home and circulate it throughout your living spaces. HVAC filters are designed to keep unwanted contaminants from entering your home while drawing air into it. When there’s a wildfire in your area, the smokey air gets sucked into these filters and can very quickly ruin them, leaving the air in your home lacking the filtration it needs. Be sure to clean your HVAC filter if you live in an area that wildfire smoke has affected you.

Ozone generators 

Ozone generators are a great way to help deodorize the air in your home. Since it is a machine, be sure to consult a professional as they do require some knowledgeability and safety in use. Ozone machines utilize electric discharge to split oxygen molecules. These molecules then reattach themselves to other oxygen molecules creating ozone. Used in low concentration, it is typically safe to use in a room while being occupied. Normally it’s use to deodorize smoke requires low concentration. At much higher concentrations, it is recommended to leave the room and allow it to dissipate for at least 4 hours. 

If your home has been affected by smoke, and you are in need of deodorization and cleaning, don’t hesitate to contact us, we have professionals standing by and we would love to help!

530-222-0200

Fire damage cleanup

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

If you are in need of fire damage restoration, contact us today! 530-222-0200

Cleaning up after a fire can be a daunting task. The emotions of having your belongings damaged along with the confusion from the chaos of fire damage can leave you overwhelmed and at a loss for what to do. Fire damage restoration should always be handled with caution and by professionals, but there are some activities to consider doing quickly, and ways to safely manage the activities you can do. Here are some tips on fire damage cleanup.



Board up and secure your home

One of the first things to consider with fire damage restoration is having your property boarded up. Often windows can be broken, and other unwanted entryways can open into your home after a fire. These entryways can allow pests and looters into your home and add to the damage of your property. The board-up process should be performed with proper instruction, or by a professional, as it can damage the exterior of your home when not performed correctly.



Wear an N-95 mask

As our homes continue to contain more petroleum-based products, carcinogens released from burning become more of a threat. Wearing an N95 grade or higher mask will help to protect from harmful carcinogens, and other possible chemicals released into the air. Protective clothing and gloves should also be worn while cleaning and salvaging your property after fire damage.

Click here for more info from the CDC on masks protecting from carcinogens.



Do not use electric or gas

Fire damage to a home or business can affect more than the exterior or noticeable parts of your building. When performing fire damage restoration, we are always cautious about the internal or structural damage that can be caused, and you should be as well. Using electricity or gas can be dangerous as things may have shifted or even broken, leaving electric wires exposed, or gas expelling in ways you may not want. Always turn off gas and electricity before re-entering a building to clean up after a fire.

If you have experienced fire damage to your home or business, don’t hesitate to contact us. We would love to help!

530-222-0200

Wildfire home protection

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

If you have experienced fire damage, don't wait, contact us today! 530-222-0200

Living in the North State, we are no stranger to fires. In the summer months, fire damage and the need for fire damage restoration in Redding increases dramatically. As we do love to help, our hopes are that you would avoid the need for restoration altogether. Here are some tips to help protect your home during a wildfire.

Preventing fire damage to your home

Once an evacuation order is given, you will want to leave the area as quickly as possible. Taking the necessary precautions as you leave can help to lower the risk of fire damage. One great step would be to connect your garden hose to the outside taps. This allows for firefighters, and anyone wanting to help, quick access to water in their fire damage prevention efforts.

Preventing fire damage to your roof

As wildfires grow and move closer to residential areas, the danger of fire damage to your home increases. In fact, it's the dry heat that proceeds flames that actually start the fire. As we all know, Redding and the surrounding areas tend to have very hot and dry summers, which can only make matters worse when we do experience a wildfire. One action that may seem unconventional to help prevent the need for fire damage restoration in Redding would be to place lawn sprinklers on your roof. Dousing your roof with water will help to fight against the dryness that can often accompany wildfires. 

Keeping fires away from your home.

Landscaping can greatly improve the aesthetic of your property, but it can also help or deter your efforts of keeping your home safe from fires. Creating defensible space is a great way to use landscaping to keep your home safe. A defensible space heavily considers a 100 ft parameter around your home. This parameter takes into consideration landscaping materials, clearing, and plant and tree spacing. For more info on creating a defensible space, check out our Defensible space preventing fire damage blog.

Landscape design with fire safety in mind

Defensible space

Smoke damage prevention

Cleaning smoke can be one of the most technical and challenging tasks to fire damage restoration. Keeping smoke out of your home will greatly help in these efforts once the fires have been contained. One great action to take if you are in an area that is experiencing a wildfire is to shut off your outdoor air conditioning unit. These units can take the smoke-filled air outside of your home, and blow particles into your home, leaving the smell of smoke along with other possible damages. Also, once a fire subsides, change out your filters to keep the air in your home clean and healthy.



If you have experienced fire damage to your home or business, and need fire damage restoration in Redding, don’t wait, contact us today!

530-222-0200

Fire damage restoration tips

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

The first 48 hours after fire damage can make the difference between restoring and replacing. Contact us today. 530-222-0200

Restoration services are needed, usually at times that are unexpected. Since it is not common for one person to need restoration services on a regular basis, we have found that many people are unsure of what to do when they are struck with an unfortunate circumstance like fire damage. The first 48 hours after fire damage can make the difference between restoring and replacing. We always recommended that you hire a local Redding fire damage restoration company,  but there are some things you can do, and things you shouldn’t do until fire damage restoration services begin.

Fire damage health

The first thing you will want to consider is the safety of entering your home, this includes your own wellbeing. Fire damage can release carcinogens into the air making it harmful to enter your home. Be sure to wear an N95 mask as you assess the damages and begin salvaging your belongings. Something else to consider is how easily carcinogens spread through the air. This makes it a good idea to shut off your heating and air. If you have it running, it may spread the carcinogens further and even into other rooms. 

Petroleum jelly can protect until fire damage restoration begins

Once the fire has died down, smoke and ash usually leave a mess needing to be cleaned. If not handled properly, this mess can have permanent or long-lasting effects. One action to consider is coating your chrome faucets, trim, and appliances with petroleum jelly. This will help to clean and protect from possible further damage.

Smoke damage and soot can set in by touch

The oils in your hands can further set in any soot or smoke damage to your walls and belongings. Be sure to wear gloves as you begin cleaning and salvaging. Much like quick action, taking the right action can be the difference between restoring and replacing. Wearing gloves offers a layer of protection for you as well as your belongings.

Cleaning clothes after smoke damage

The smell of smoke can go well beyond the affected area, and most often clothes are the unfortunate candidate for capturing the smell. A mistake many people make is sending their clothes to a dry cleaner. If clothes are not cleaned properly, smoke smells can remain in clothing. At SERVPRO® of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties, we have techniques and technology that will remove smoke odors from clothing much better than dry cleaning alone can. 

If you have had the unfortunate experience of fire damage in Redding, don’t hesitate to contact us. We would love to help.

530-222-0200

5 tips to prevent summer fires

6/4/2021 (Permalink)

If you have experienced fire damage, and need fire damage restoration, don’t hesitate, contact us today! 530-222-0200

Shasta County and the surrounding areas are notorious for fires during the summer. The mixture of dry heat and wind is a perfect storm for wildfires, and summer activities can lead to a higher potential for fires in your home. Unfortunately, there is a high need for fire damage restoration in Redding and the surrounding areas, but there are some actions you can take to prevent it altogether. Here are five tips to prevent summer fires.

Fires Started by grills

It is almost ingrained in our culture that as the weather heats up, so do our backyard grills! As much as grilling is a favorite pastime for many, the need for grill safety is evident. 

According to the NFPA, 29% of gas-fueled grill fires happen from a failure to clean. This is the largest contributor to grill fires. Be sure to clean your grills and grease trap after each use. This will add to your safety and health! For more info on cleaning grills, check out thebbqdepot.com

Other reasons for grill fires to be aware of include heat sources being too close to combustibles, and mishandled propane.



Fires started by air conditioners

The extreme heat in Redding and the surrounding areas cause a need for high air conditioning use. Central air systems are not as likely to start fires as portable or fixed units. Generally, wall units and portable units have a higher requirement for electric power, and the wiring at times may not keep up.

The first measure of safety with air conditioning units is to always have a professional install your unit. Be sure to have your unit serviced annually, and do not use an extension cord with your air conditioning unit. These actions will greatly reduce the chance of a fire, and the need for fire damage restoration!



Fires started by smoking

There are nearly 1,000 fire deaths every year caused by cigarettes. If you smoke, one of the best options to prevent a home fire is to smoke outside. One of the larger fire dangers cigarettes carry is the ability to spark a wildfire. Even though there has been a decline since the 1980’s in wildfires started by cigarettes, our dry and dense forests provide a high risk for even a small spark to start a fire. Be sure to extinguish your cigarettes, and never dispose of them by throwing them out of your window.

Fires started by Fireworks

The beauty and excitement of fireworks may be something that you look forward to each year, but along with the fun times and celebration comes a responsibility of safety. Every year over 50,000 fires are caused by fireworks. Much of the fire damage restoration that is called for every summer can be attributed to the improper use of fireworks. Although fireworks are illegal in Shasta county if you are in a county that allows them, be sure to take all of the necessary safety precautions. Some of the precautions include keeping a bucket of water nearby, never letting young children handle fireworks, and soaking fireworks for a few hours before discarding them. Check out nsc.org for more fireworks safety tips.

Wildfires

It may be surprising for some to find that the vast majority of wildfires are caused by humans. We can help lower the number of wildfires if we all were more aware of and took the safety measures necessary to keep our forests safe. Campfires and equipment malfunction are some of the main causes of wildfires started by humans.



  • Campfires: Be sure to drown the fire, stir the embers to get them all wet, and feel the area with the back of your hand to make sure nothing is still smoldering.
  • Equipment malfunction: Whenever using equipment or machinery, be sure to follow its proper use, and read the instruction manual before operating.



If you have experienced fire damage, and need fire damage restoration, don’t hesitate, contact us today!

530-222-000

Heating Appliance Fires

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

If you have experienced fire damage call us today. We would love to help! 530-222-0200

According to the NFPA, there are approximately 45,000 home electrical fires a year, many of which are caused by a heating appliance. Often it is the little things we forget or miss that become the culprit of such a painful situation as fire damage. Although we enjoy helping others out of hard situations and providing them hope, our desire would be that no one would have to endure hardship such as fire damage to their home or business. Here are some tips to avoid an electrical fire with your heating appliance this winter.

No extension cords

Extension cords can be very problematic with heating appliances. Extension cords can only handle a certain current, and heating appliances are typically higher than what they can handle. This can cause the cord to overheat or overload the circuit. Also, extension cords create a tripping hazard that may lead to the heating appliance falling over.

3-foot distance

Many of our household items contain flammable materials. When left unattended or not thought about, these items that are too close to heating appliances can catch on fire. It is best to keep items three feet away from the heating appliance and be sure to regularly check the area your heating appliance is being used.

One plug in the wall outlet

Coffee makers, toasters, and most appliances with heating elements typically require a large amount of electricity. Plugging them in with a space heater can cause the wires to get too hot or lead to a shortage in the electrical. Some ways you can tell whether you are overloading your wall outlet include flickering lights, wall plates that have become discolored, and circuit breakers that are tripped frequently. For more info on how to tell if you are overloading your wall outlet check out the ESFI website.



If you have experienced fire damage in your home, don’t hesitate to contact us, we would love to help!

530-222-0200

Winter Fire

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

If you have experienced fire damage to your home, don't hesitate to contact us. We would love to help!

As winter sets in, it is a natural reaction to become less concerned about fire damage. Cold air with higher humidity makes outdoor elements less likely to catch on fire. While the chance of a wildfire or house fire due to hot and dry temperatures may be low, our need to stay warm indoors can lead to other potential fire dangers. Here are the top three winter fire causes.

Heating

According to nfpa.org heating equipment on average accounts for an average of 52,050 fires in homes. As the weather becomes increasingly cold, it is a necessity for us to find a source of heat, but it can become dangerous if not handled correctly. When using a space heater, do not elevate it, be sure to keep it away from any flammable materials, and never let a space heater run unattended. These actions will help to reduce the risk of a fire caused by a space heater.

Christmas Trees

On average 160 fires are started by Christmas trees every year. Dry Christmas trees can become completely consumed by fire in less than 10 seconds. It is essential that Christmas trees are watered and managed through the holiday months. Be sure to never use candles in a tree, and thoroughly check decorative lights before they are applied to the tree.

Candles

Research has found that candle fires account for a national average of 21 house fires a day.  As this takes into account a yearly average, there is a much higher usage of candles during the winter months. While using candles be sure to keep them away from curtains, or areas that hang over the flame. Never leave a candle unattended, and keep them 12 inches away from all potentially flammable material. In addition, candles should never be lit in a home that utilizes oxygen. 



If you have experienced fire damage, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are available 24/7 - 365, and we would love to help!

530-222-0200 | SERVPROnorthshasta.com

House Fire Safety

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

If you have experienced fire damage to your home, don't hesitate to contact us. We would love to help!

According to the National Fire Protection Association, In America, we have an average of 353,100 house fires a year. A house fire can be one of the most damaging, and difficult situations to recover from. It not only carries the physical implications of a damaged building structure but also the emotional strain of losing the things you cherish most. For us at SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties, restoring hope is just as important as restoring your property. If we can help it, we would rather that you don’t experience these losses altogether. Here are some tips to prevent the top causes of a house fire.

Smoking

Smoking is the number 1 cause of home fire deaths in America. If you smoke, it is best to do so outside. Never smoke around an oxygen tank. An oxygen tank around a fire can explode, and cause the fire to burn hotter and faster. A cigarette should be completely put out before going to bed, and never smoke in bed.

Electrical fire

The number one cause for electrical fires in a home are old appliances and faulty electrical outlets. Regularly inspect the electrical cords from your appliances, and never alter the prongs on a plug. Avoid having electrical cords ran underneath a carpet and when you are unplugging a cord, be sure to hold the plug securely and not the cord. Unplugging a cord from a wall by pulling the cord can cause it to fray and possibly lead to a fire.

Cooking

Cooking fires are the leading types of home fires in America. Most often these fires are caused by unattended cooking. Be sure to never leave food while the source of heat is still active. Be aware of combustible material, and keep it away from anything cooking. Double-check ovens and stovetops once cooking is done to ensure they have been turned off. Often a small mistake like that could lead to major damages.

If you have experienced fire damage, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We would love to help!

530-222-0200

Rising From The Ashes

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

If you have experienced fire damage and need help, don't hesitate to call. We are here 24/7! 530-222-0200

Coming out of this year's fire season, we have responded to the much-needed fire damage restoration, and it's unfortunate to see how many people were affected this year. An astounding 4,267,386 acres have burned so far in this season. Homes were lost, lives were impacted, and the question many are asking is "what now"? 

One of the many great attributes of our community is strength. There's a resiliency that Shasta County and the surrounding communities carry. When times get tough we find a way to continue on, to continue in hope, and to rise from the ashes. 

Here are some helpful ideas if you have been affected by this year’s California wildfires. 

Reentry

Be sure that the fire department has cleared you to be able to reenter your home, but even after they do, be sure to check your home for structural damage. It would be a good idea to have someone like a contractor inspect your home before you reenter. Another telling sign that it may not be safe is the smell. If you can smell propane or natural gas, quickly get as far away from the location as you can.

Repairing the home

Often times repairing what was once a safe and cherished place can feel extremely daunting. Having even the slightest help can set someone in the right direction in building back their lives. We understand the importance of hope in what many see as a hopeless situation. Even in tasks like debris removal and cleaning it’s important to have people around you that care and empathize with your situation. When choosing a company that handles fire restoration, be sure that they reflect those attributes just as much as they carry a high level of professionalism. Your state of mind, and ability to remain in hope is too valuable to do otherwise.

Smoke damage

It has been reported that smoke from the California wildfires reached as for as Kansas. Here in the North State, we were without clean air and clear skies for the better part of 2 months. Although your home may not have been affected directly by fire, the smoke may have seeped into your home, leaving a lingering smell. Having the smell removed professionally with something like an ozone machine is usually the best option. In that case that you are unable to hire a restoration company, a remedy some have found effective is white vinegar. Wiping down your floors, walls, and furniture as well as leaving it in bowls around your home has been reported to help eliminate smoke odors.

Resources

There is plenty of help out there for those who need it. Know that you are not alone and that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Here is a great document from the Red Cross to help in those times of need. There are times when further resources are needed as well. If you find yourself at a loss and need resources, here is a page on the ca.gov website that lists out available resources that you may be able to access. 

Our hope is that you will never have to experience a tragedy such as fire damage but in the unfortunate case that you do, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We would love to help in any way we can.

SERVPRO of North Shasta

Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties

530-222-0200

Air Smoke Purifier

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

Contact us today! 530-222-0200

As fires are common in the north state, smoke-filled air has become expected through the summer months. Usually, the air quality stays at a reasonable level. There are times though, when the fire is close enough, that measures should be taken for the sake of our health. Thankfully there have been ways that we can help.

Local Icon & Businesses Affected

In 2018 we experienced a string of fires that devastated our community. One of the businesses affected was Turtle Bay. An iconic and loved place in Redding, Turtle Bay is home to over 64 different animal species on 300 acres of land. When the fires ignited, not only were flames a danger but the smoke as well. Good AQI or air quality index ranges on a scale from 1-50. As Sharon Clay, the Animal Programs Curator of Turtle Bay, explains “the AQI inside the building was over 300”. This was far from safe for the animals. Click here for full video.

Here To Help

As our slogan states, we are “Here to help”. We take great pride and joy in being of service to our community, and this time it proved to be beneficial not only to people but the animals of Turtle Bay as well! We placed our air scrubbers in the building of Turtle Bay, creating a safe, breathable, indoor environment for the animals. Once our scrubbers ran, it dropped the AQI of the buildings into the single digits.

Our recent wildfires once again filled the air with smoke. The need to clean smoke from the air arose and Turtle Bay gave us a call. Of course, we were happy to be of service again, and will any time they call! 

Clean Air For You Too

These instances are quite common in the North State as is the need for clean air. At SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties, keeping our community safe and healthy is a driving factor behind what we do. We were happy to help Turtle Bay, and we would be happy to help you as well. Clean air is only a call away!

If the current smoke is infiltrating your home or business, don’t hesitate to call, we would love to help!

530-222-0200

Effects of Wildfires

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

If you need help with restoration, or have any questions, don't hesitate to contact us! 530-222-0200

In our recent string of wildfires, it was reported that the smoke has traveled over 1,500 miles and seen as far as Kansas. This incredible feat happens due to the small size of smoke particles, and the accumulation of multiple fires burning at the same time. These accumulated smoke particles travel high into the atmosphere, a mile above the earth’s surface, and travel across the country. Gray skies are usually the only event experienced from this, though there are times that jet streams can force these smoke particles down into the air closer to the surface, and cause a change in the air quality. Closer to home, where the fires are burning, these smoke particles can be more problematic.

How smoke can affect you

Much closer to home, we have experienced a week where the sun was all but blocked by the smoke. The multiple fires in our area have caused unhealthy and smokey air. The AQI or air quality index normally should range between 0-50. In perspective, our AQI for most of these smokey days ranged between 150-200. At the range, finding solutions for breathing clean air, within your home or business, would be a good idea to consider.

What you can do to clear the air

While we can’t control the amount of smoke released in the air, we can take some steps to protect our own health. It is best to stay indoors when the air is this bad, but wearing an N95 or P100 mask can help while you are outside. epa.gov has a great article on this! Staying indoors certainly is the best option, but sometimes the air is so bad that machines like air scrubbers should be used. During the Carr Fire, and this fire season, SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties has had the honor of helping the animal at Turtle Bay stay healthy! Here is a video of how we have helped during the Carr fire.  



Here To Help

Air scrubbers, like the ones used for Turtle Bay, are available to help any size home or business. If you need a clean air solution, please don’t hesitate to contact us, we would love to help!

530-222-0200 

Summer Fire Dangers

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

If you have suffered a loss from a fire, Don’t hesitate to contact us for any questions or help you may need. 530-222-0200 SERVPROnorthshasta.com

Summertime is notorious for wildfires. While many fires are unavoidable, some factors that play a role can be avoided. A wildfire requires three elements to start: a form of heat, oxygen, and fuel. As summer seasons can dry out what’s normally green vegetation, it creates a perfect source of fuel. With oxygen present, all that a wildfire will need is the presence of heat for a fire to start. Unfortunately, most wildfires are caused by humans. According to Accuweather, over 61,000 wildfires are caused by humans every year. Campfires rank as the number one cause, while arson and debris burning come in at second and third. 

Campfire safety

Campfires are a great part of the camping experience. When handled properly, all ends well, and no damage occurs. In our community, many people are experienced campers, and know the ins and outs, while others may not be as experienced. Either way, it is always good to refresh ourselves on campfire safety. Here are some tips from smokeybear.com to keep you safe while camping.

  • Dig your pit away from overhead trees and branches
  • Clear down to dirt a 10-foot area around the pit
  • Stack extra wood away from and upwind of the fire



Arson

Our hopes would be that no one intentionally starts a fire, but the reality is that arson is never an accident. Reasons that people commit arson range from concealing a crime to vandalism. Personal gain (emotionally or physically), cover-up, and revenge seems to be the highest motivators for arson. 



Debris burning

Clearing debris from your property is a great way to minimize the risk of fire, but what do you do with the debris once it’s cleared? Many people find it easiest to burn their debris. If a burn permit is required, be sure to acquire one before burning, and only burn on the permitted days. Make sure your debris is no larger than a 4x4 pile, keep a 10 food diameter cleared around it, and keep a good source of water around it. Always be present until the pile is completely burned out. 

If you have suffered a loss from a fire, we understand the confusion and frustration you may be feeling. We handle each situation as if it were our own, and we would love to help with yours. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or help you may need. 

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties

530-222-0200

Defensible Space Preventing Fire Damage

7/8/2020 (Permalink)

If you have experienced fire damage restoration, contact us today! 530-222-0200 SERVPROnorthshasta.com

There have been 2,996 fires in CA to date, amassing over 19,951 acres. Fire season is upon us, and it’s a well-known fact in our area that preparedness is the key. There are many actions to take and ways to keep safe during the fire season, but one of the most effective ways to prevent fire damage is to create a defensible space around your home. Defensible space is an area around your home that will help to minimize the fire damage to your home. Here is some helpful information on creating a defensible space!

Ignition Zones

The ignition zone is separated into three parts, and encompass an area that is 100 feet around your home. The reason for this is that as the fire heats up, it can ignite combustible material up to 100 feet away. Click here for a link to fema.gov for in-depth detail on all three zones.  

Fire-Resistant Landscaping

When it comes to fire prevention, it may seem like the best idea to clear all shrubs and greenery around your home. In-fact, having plants strategically placed around your home will provide for a better deterrent. Often a wildfire builds during windy conditions, and embers from the fire can travel along with the wind. Having fire-resistant landscaping can block the embers from ever reaching your home, preventing your home from catching on fire.

Vertical and horizontal spacing 

Having proper vertical and horizontal spacing between your trees will minimize the fire passing between the trees on your property. Without proper vertical space, the fire can travel from the ground up to the trees. It is recommended to have at least 6 feet of space between the ground and the branches of your trees. Similarly, without proper horizontal space, a fire can spread from tree to tree. Horizontal space takes into consideration the hight of the trees or shrubs and the slope of the ground. You can find more on horizontal spacing by clicking here.



At SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties, we not only care about restoring your home or business, but also restoring peace of mind, and hope. We handle every situation as if it were our own, and would rather you avoid fire damage if at all possible. If you do happen to experience fire damage and want a company that operates with care as much as it does professionalism, contact us anytime. 24/7 -365 we would love to help!

530-222-0200 

SERVPROnorthshasta.com

How Does Fire Restoration Work?

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

If you have experienced Fire Damage contact us today! 530-222-0200

We understand the confusion and anxiety one can feel experiencing fire damage for the first time. Our goal at SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties, is not only to restore your property but also to restore your peace of mind. In the list of things that could have gone wrong when a fire damages your home or business, we pride ourselves on being one of the things that will go right! 

How The Process Begins

You have either heard of us from a friend, seen our trucks around town or perhaps found us online from a blog like this! Once you give us a call, you will speak with one of our friendly and amazing office staff that will ask questions to help assess how we can help. We will then schedule one of our technicians to come to your home or business to assess the damages, and the fire restoration needed.

Our Techs On Location

From the minute our technicians arrive to the moment they leave, their focus is to communicate with compassion for you and your situation and to handle their job with the highest level of professionalism. After their initial assessment of the fire damage, they will gather their findings, and construct an estimate for restoring and cleaning. Depending on the extent of the damage, the estimate typically takes 1-3 days to get back to you. If you do not already have a contractor for the rebuild, we can provide you with a list of contractors that we know and trust!

The Restoration Work Begins.

You will be well informed on the scope of our work before any fire restoration is performed. Our technicians are happy to answer any questions you may have before, during, or after the restoration work has begun. Again, we want to make sure we restore peace of mind, as well as your physical property, so don't be afraid to ask us questions!

Last Steps To Take

Once the job is complete, our technicians will thoroughly clean any mess made in the process of fire restoration. You will be asked to fill out a form on your satisfaction with us, and asked to leave us a review. Once the final balance is paid, you will receive a call from our office as a final follow-up. Our goal with this call is to hear directly from you about your experience in this process. We are always refining and updating our process to ensure you have the best customer experience possible!

If your home or business has been damaged by a fire, please contact us today. We would love to help!

530-222-0200

Fire Damage Restoration | Are You Prepared?

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

If you need Fire Damage Restoration, don't wait, contact us today! 530-222-0200

An incident that requires fire damage restoration can happen unexpectedly, but that doesn't mean you can't be prepared. During a fire, the safety of you and your family matter first. Knowing what to do during and after the event will help to keep your family, and your property as safe as possible. Here are some tips to help during a home fire.

Fire Damage Restoration 

Tips to prepare, and what to do after.

Getting out of your home

Small flames can grow into a large in as little as 30 seconds, and It only takes a few minutes for black smoke to fill the house. Along with the intense heat of a fire, what some people may not realize is how dark a room can become due to the thick smoke. 

To be prepared you should:

  • Practice making your way out of your house without the ability to see
  • Locate multiple ways out of each room in your home
  • Have a collapsible ladder in upstairs rooms to escape out of windows 

Once the fire has been eliminated

Caution should always be taken entering your home until the restoration process is complete. Before entering your home again, be sure to check with the fire department to ensure it is safe to re-enter. Upon doing so, be mindful of any possible structural damage, and collect as many valuable documents and records as possible.

Contacting a Fire Damage Restoration Company

As soon as possible, call your insurance company. Keep in mind that your insurance company may have a national account they suggest, but you don’t have to use the company they suggest. After that, be sure to call a restoration company, and start the process of restoration. Fire damage restoration varies in the time it takes to complete depending on the extent of the damage. The Aesthetics is just the beginning of what's necessary to restore a home. Soot can be very hazardous to your health and is best handled by a professional. There is also the risk you could be exposed to electrical elements that should be professionally handled. 

If you have experienced a fire and need fire damage restoration, don't wait, contact us today!

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties

530-222-0200

Cleaning up after a fire

11/30/2019 (Permalink)

For fire damage clean up, contact the professionals at SERVPRO® of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties today! 530-222-0200

The dust has settled, you are starting to get your bearings back, now what do you do to put your house back together?

Of course, hiring a professional restoration company is the best answer, but here are some tips in the case that you are unable to.

Fire damage may go beyond cosmetic.

Have your house inspected. Electrical wiring, foundation, and wall supports may have been affected and should be corrected before any cleaning or cosmetic repairs are performed.

Be Aware of Carcinogens.

Much of our household materials are now petroleum-based. When they burn, cancer-causing carcinogens can be released through soot and smoke. Always wear a respirator when cleaning up after a fire, and be fully covered to be as safe as possible. Additionally a

HEPA vac with proper filters and the use of air scrubbers are vitally important to removing carcinogens. The danger of carcinogens is one of the main reasons we highly recommend having a professional restoration company do the work for you!

Removing Soot.

Soot can become oily, and very hard to remove. Cleaning soot with water may spread the problem rather than clean it. Instead of water, a better idea may be to use a vinegar solution, but even then it can be difficult and may take multiple cleanings to remove the soot.

Checking and getting rid of the remaining materials.

Smoke can penetrate most packaging and the heat from a fire can damage items that may look safe to use. Perishable and non-perishable foods should be thrown out as smoke most likely has penetrated the packaging. Makeup and medicines may have been damaged in a way that can make them harmful and should not be used. Appliances should be checked before using, as the heat and possible water could have damaged the electronics.

Overall, when cleaning up after a fire, it is best to have a professional restoration company do the work for you. Your safety and well being is too important to be put at risk!

For fire damage clean up, contact the professionals at SERVPRO® of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties today!

530-222-0200

Fire Safety tips - Fire Extinguishers

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

For fire damage restoration in Redding and the surrounding area, contact us today! 530-222-0200

Fire Safety Redding-Fire Extinguishers

Today’s hot topic is Fire Extinguishers

A little bit of history: The very first recorded fire extinguisher was in England in 1723 created by a chemist. It was made from cast and the fire extinguishing compound consisted of a pewter chamber of gunpowder. This contraption was then connected to a series of fuses which were then ignited, the gunpowder exploded, scattering the mixture.

Fun Fact: The fire extinguishers as we know them weren’t invented until 1816.

For more fire safety and info, go to www.firerescue1.com

The A, B, C (and D’s) of fire extinguishers:

What do the classifications of fire extinguishers mean? Which do you have? Will it work for what you intend to use it for?

A: Works for combustible materials like paper and wood.

B: Ares used for flammable oil-based liquids like gasoline, grease, and oil.

C: Operates on electrical fires.

D: extinguishes flammable metals.

You might see multiple letters in companied with a number looking like this, 10-B: C. The number represents how big of fire the extinguisher is good for. In this case, 10-B:C is good for 25 square feet; B - is good for gasoline and grease, C - works for electrical fires.

How to use an extinguisher?

P- Pull the pin

A- Aim the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire

S- Squeeze the lever evenly and slowly

S- Swipe side to side to cover the affected area

Where should you keep fire extinguishers?

They should be located on every floor or in each room. You want to have a fire extinguisher near any heat sources like your kitchen and garage, furnace, water heater, and even your laundry room. It’s also a good idea to have a fire extinguisher in your bedrooms, in case you need to create a safe path out of your home. It is important to be able to reach a fire extinguisher within 6 seconds of it starting. That quick action can help prevent property damage and save lives.

Fire damage restoration in Reding, CA and the surrounding areas.

SERVPRO® of North Shasta, Trinity, and Greater Tehama Counties is here to help you if a disaster affects your home or business. We are open 24/7/365, you can call us at 530-222-0200.

For more tips check out our Youtube Tips-On-The-Go playlist!

PGE Shut off - What to do - Redding Restoration Company

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

If you have experienced fire damage caused by fallen power lines or any other disaster, contact us today. 530-222-0200

Many of the residents have had their power turned off in Shasta, Tehama, and Glenn counties. This is an unpredictable power shutoff mandate; PG&E is shutting power off to keep the communities safe from large weather events that may cause fires like the one in Paradise. At the beginning of October, the vice president of PG&E gave an estimate of updating over 7,000 miles of power lines that may take 10-14 years in high fire risk areas. He also claims that it can take up to 8 years to improve vegetation management on 25,000 miles of power lines in high-risk areas.

With this PGE Shut off, we need to be prepared for no energy for many days.

SERVPRO® of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties wants to help you when your power is out. Here are some steps to help you prepare.

  • Make sure you have at least 7 days of food and water for everyone in your home.
  • Find alternate plans for medical devices.
  • Have a good supply of fresh batteries.
  • Have plenty of flashlights ready.
  • Make sure you have plenty of fuel for your vehicles and or generators. Chances are if you don’t have power your local gas station might not be open.
  • ALWAYS keep generators outside and away from windows.
  • Keep the fridge door closed as much as you can, this will keep the cool air in the fridge. Use thermometers in your freezers and refrigerators to make sure you are well under 40 degrees. You might have to get ice or dry ice to keep your food from spoiling. If the temperature goes over 40 degrees for 2 hours or more the food has spoiled.

Power outages can impact our communities and our local economy. These outages can disrupt your water supply as many of our locals depend on wells and your pumps can’t operate without electricity. Your transportation methods may also become interrupted, as gas stations may not even be open for business and if they are, they may be overloaded with customers or even run out of gas and fuel. Communication systems can go down during an outage, which can leave residents in the dark when it comes to the latest information in safety status. Please take the time to prepare for yourself and families, this will help you considerably in the years to come.  

For more helpful tips, check out our Tips-On-The-Go episodes on our Youtube Channel.

Also keep up to date with your local restoration professionals SERPVRO® of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties 24/7-365

530-222-0200

The "F" Word

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Fire, Smoke, Soot and Ash Damage Cleaning in Redding and Shasta County? Call SERVPRO Now! 530-222-0200

Are you at danger for a home fire?

An “F” word I’m sure we are all fed up of hearing is “Fire”. Every time we turn on the news or log on to social media, there it is. Fire is sadly a huge part of our life in Northern California. Much of our community experienced the Carr, Hirtz, Delta and Camp fire. We hopefully understand the steps to help prevent wildfires from spreading, but how much do we know about home fires, or how they can ignite? Can our brand-new appliances be the cause of house fires?

National Fire Protection Agency states nationwide over ½ million structure fires were reported from appliances, 13,000 injuries, nearly 3,000 deaths and more than 10 billion dollars in damages.

SERVPRO® of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties wants to make sure you and your family stay safe and understand the fire hazards home appliances can have.

For instance, Dryers are at the top of the list for appliance fires. Simply cleaning the lint trap after every use can help reduce the risk of fire. We would like to suggest cleaning out dryer vent behind the appliance at least once a year.

Toasters are also high on the list of fire hazards. Crumbs can build up at the bottom of the elements and then easily overheat and start a fire, please remember to clean your toasters every month.

One might never think a refrigerator can start a fire in your home however the compressor can overheat or an electrical short can be the cause of a fire. It is suggested to have a routine maintenance check on your refrigerator once a year.

These appliances pose a high risk of fire danger to your home. Its recommended to NOT operate these appliances while you are out of your home or while you are sleeping, run them ONLY while you are present and awake in case you need to shut down the power source and or contact your local fire department.

We would like to mention it’s important to keep all documentation like receipts, photos and even the failed part from the appliance. This is excellent information given to your insurance provider. If your appliance was damaged, the manufacturer may have to be contacted regarding your home damages and replace your appliance. This information can help your insurance speed up the claim process. As always SERVPRO® is also here to help you through this process as well, getting your home and life back in order Like it never even happened®. 

530-222-0200

Are You Prepared for Shasta County Wildfire Season?

8/15/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Emergency call us immediately 24/7 – 365 at (530) 222-0200

Wildfires driven by Summer heat, and high winds consuming uncleared brush and vegetation can quickly cause loss of life and devastate large tracts of Redding, California residential and commercial property

California living means learning how to prepare for seasonal wildfires.  As population centers expand outward into rural areas, known as the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI), it is only a matter of time before commercial and residential properties confront fire damage.

Fire Damage?  Call Now! 530-222-0200

Redding residents know all too well the devastating Carr Fire.  How our local community, service groups, Redding Chamber, Redding Firefighters and CalFire united to tackle that terrible fire disaster.   Our teams here at SERVPRO® of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties rallied together with other SERVPRO® franchise partners to amass considerable fire damage restoration resources to quickly provide help to Shasta County home and business owners to clean up burned structural damage, ash, smoke, soot residue and odor.

REMEMBER - The beauty of our Northern California region can, as quick as a spark, become enflamed by unsafe and reckless fire practices, deliberate arson, human activity and smoldering wilderness campsite fires and residential burn piles. 

** READ our educational and timely article:  The CARR Fire and SERVPRO®

Just when we thought the fire season was over the Camp Fire devastated the Butte County mountain community of Paradise.  Once again regional SERVPRO® disaster response teams rallied forces to remove smoke and ash infused homes to safe levels of air quality and occupation

Shasta County has experienced multiple high-profile wildfire flare ups. 2008 saw the Popcorn Fire / Peterson Complex and  Shasta-Trinity Lightning complex fires.  Lassen and Fall River Mills in 2014 experienced the Bald Fire as the Eiler Fire burned southeast of Burney.

Our concern and compassion are first and foremost for the safety and wellbeing of you, your family and pets.

For any Fire Emergency call us immediately 24/7 – 365 at (530) 222-0200 for smoke, soot, burn and water damage. 

SERVPRO® of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties understands fire damage restoration.  We have had over two decades of locally owned and operated Redding community experience helping homeowners, property managers and commercial facilities directors make the right strategic emergency clean up decisions.  We know how to deal with insurance agents and adjusters and navigating through the oftentimes complicated terrain of the fire damage claims process. We also provide content pack out and emergency board up to protect your belongings and property.

Emergency Board Up In Redding CA

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

For Emergency Board Up Services in Redding contact SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties

Often the range of emotion we feel during a tragedy keeps us from thinking through the important details of what to do next. The actions you take after a fire or disaster can greatly impact the amount of help you will get from your insurance company. Nolo.com gives a great list of ten tips for homeowners facing fire or smoke damage, and number two on that list is securing your property.

Not only will boarding up your property after a fire help to get the support you need from your insurance company, but it can also reduce the risk of vandalism. The last thing any of us want to experience after something like a house fire is even more loss or damage to our property, but boarding up your house itself can cause additional damage if not done correctly.

Instead of taking the risk to board up your property on your own, contact a professional from SERVPRO.  We will not only ensure that your property will be boarded up correctly, but it can help to keep your property safe, and aide in getting the most help possible from your insurance company. We specialize in emergency board up services and would love to help in the event of a tragedy.

If you require emergency board up services, contact SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties online, or call 530-222-0200

How to stay safe during a summer lightning storm.

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Storm Damage to your home? SERVPRO is here for you in Redding, California. Fast Response by Professionals - 530-222-0200

It isn't uncommon to have 110-degree temperatures in Shasta and Tehama Counties. Occasionally, we will have a rogue summer lightning storm come through our community. Just like the storm in 2008 where more than 200,000 acres were on fire in Trinity and Shasta counties as part of the June Fire Siege.

Many people think their home is a perfect location to be safe during a lightning storm, but you could still be at risk. Nearly 1/3rd of injuries from lightning strikes occur indoors.

SERVPRO® of North Shasta, Trinity, Greater Tehama Counties would like to offer tips to keep you and your family safe from lightning while indoors.

Avoid Doors, Windows, Porches, and Concrete: Lightning can travel through metal and rebar inside concrete flooring and walls. We recommend not to lean on concrete walls or lie down on concrete flooring.

Avoid Water: Please do not have contact with water during a thunderstorm, lightning can travel through your home's plumbing. We suggest not to wash dishes, shower or bathe during a storm.

Avoid Electronics: Lightning can travel through electricity, make sure you use surge protectors to protect appliances in your home. We also recommend not operate washers, dryers, microwaves, stoves, computers or anything else that may be connected to an outlet.

A normal thunderstorm is commonly 15 miles in diameter and typically last 30 minutes to 1 hour. It’s been recorded that almost 1,800 thunderstorms are occurring every moment around the world, that's nearly 16 million per year.

Almost 2,000 people are killed per year around the world from lightning. Many people survive lightning strikes however they can suffer from many long-term symptoms, which can include weakness, memory loss, dizziness, and many other illnesses. Lightning strikes are known to cause severe burns and cardiac arrest, 9 out of 10 people survive the injury.

SERVPRO® of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties wants to make sure you and your family stay safe during the next thunder and lightning storm we get in our area.

Resources:

www.nationalgeographic.com

www.krcrtv.com

Fire Dangers From Summer Activities

6/25/2019 (Permalink)

Have a happy and safe 4th of July!

Fire hazards in the summertime and how to avoid them.

July in Redding and surrounding areas bring the full effect of wildfire danger.  A single spark from a sparkler can create immense fire damage for our area.  Summer hits the North State hard with camping, fireworks and barbeque gathering. As you enjoy these great summer activities, we here at SERVPRO ® of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties hope you take safety as your highest priority. Fire accidents are much easier to prevent than the huge cost of fire, smoke and water restoration from this type of accident. Here are some tips to help your summer activities stay safe, as well as, memorable and fun.

Call SERVPRO®! 530-222-0200

  • Keep a fire extinguisher, water or bucket of sand available while you have a campfire going.
  • Remember to check all firework laws for your city, county and state. If you want to see fireworks, we suggest going to a public show put on by experts such as Redding, Ca’s Freedom Festival.
  • Over time, leftover food debris and grease can build up in your grill. To help prevent fires, remember to complete routine maintenance on fitting and connections, also clean your grill after every use.
  • Before starting your grill or campfire, make a defensible space around the area. Clearing all flammable objects nearby. This may include items like; dry grass, leaves, sticks, low hanging branches or porch railings. It is important to note that barbeques should NEVER be used under your home’s eaves or indoors. Before starting any campfires, be sure to obtain laws and regulations for the area you are planning to camp.
  • When you are completely done using your grill or campfire, ALWAYS be 100% positive that is it completely extinguished. If embers are left unattended it can become a huge disaster.

FACTS:

  • Barbeques should be minimum of 10’ away from your home or business.
  • Build campfires at least 25’ away from tents while camping.
  • 1 out of 4 victims of fireworks related incidents are NOT the users.
  • Sparklers can exceed 1100 degrees. Glass melts at 900 degrees. Wood burns at 575 degrees.

If you find yourself needing emergency repair and restoration from fire and smoke damage, SERVPRO® of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties is here to restore your home or business Like it never even happened. ®  

Please call 530-222-0200

Resources:

https://www.thurswell.com/hazards-fireworks-know/

https://www.nfpa.org

Redding Wildfire Risk in Shasta County and SERVPRO Fire & Smoke Restoration

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

Redding Wildfires - Smoke, Ash and Soot Damage Clean Up - Call SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties - 530-222-0200

How do Home and Business Owners Recover from Severe Wildfire Ash and Smoke Damage?

Wildfires in Northern California, such as last year’s Carr, Delta, Hirz and Menicino Lake Complex fires in the forest and dense Manzanita covered hills of Shasta, Siskiyou and Trinity Counties spread so fast that home and residential property owners were evacuated from many East Redding and Shasta Lake City neighborhoods as home after home was tragically burned to the ground.  Our team of professionals here at SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties have spent the last year working with home owners, insurance companies, agents and adjusters continuing to pour our considerable SERVPRO technology and equipment into cleaning those homes left standing of attic insulation infused with soot and ash, cleaning contents and deodorizing long-standing bad odor residue inside walls and ceilings.

Call Now!  530-222-0200

Our beautiful City of Redding has been particularly hard hit by wildfires. 

With triple digit temperatures on the way we approach a new hot and dry Summer.  Complicating matters are dead and uncleared trees and branches lying on the ground having fallen from the Winter snowstorm.  We are not out of the woods yet. Northwest and Southwest Redding along Shasta View and Old Oregon Trail connecting to College View and onto Oasis Road through the Hwy 299 and Hwy 44 corridors into the small communities of Bella Vista and Palo Cedro have remained largely unscathed. The small town of Shingletown, surrounded by dense underbrush and uncleared trees remains, at risk. 

Strong and gusty winds carry not only vegetation soot and ash but also hazardous long-chain hydrocarbons from plastic, industrial chemicals and synthetic building materials, automobile tires and chemically treated sheetrock and wallboard.

How can we ever forget the massive and historic Camp Fire in Butte County’s small town of Paradise that forever changed the landscape?  How can you and your home or business come back from fire damage?

Massive Fires, PG&E and No Electricity?  Be Prepared

Additionally, another new development and area of great concern is our North State power company PG&E recently sent out a press release stating that in the event of massive wildfire incidents the electric grid and power could be shut-off for an extended period of time affecting perhaps hundreds of thousands of Redding area residents.  The unknown effects could be devastating.  Check the links here for more timely information on PG&E’s preparedness information.

The Aftermath of Wildfires and Fire Damage Restoration

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties are experts in wildfire damage emergency cleanup and restoration to make your home, “Like it never even happened.” 

We have the answers. We also understand the distress, economic and emotional loss homeowners and businesses feel when suffering fire loss.  We also have years of experience knowing how to talk to and working with both insurance agents and insurance claims adjusters from every major company such as State Farm, Farmers, The Hanford, All State and many more. We deal directly with your insurance company to ensure coverage for your fire loss or water loss.

We offer 24/7 – 365 emergency service and will come out at any hour. 

Call SERVPRO First!

530-222-0200

We work tirelessly day and night to help local communities such as Redding, Red Bluff, Corning, Orland, Dunsmuir, Mt. Shasta, Weed and Yreka and areas in between to service and restore residential and commercial properties to their previous clean and safe condition.

Fire Damage Leads to Water Damage Leading to Mold Damage

6/7/2019 (Permalink)

Fire, Ash, Smoke and Soot Damage with Wet Contents? Call SERVPRO Now! 530-222-0200

Firefighting efforts use water to extinguish the fire but also soaks home contents with wet ash, smoke and soot

When water combines with toxic soot it produces an acidic chemical reaction within cellulose based wall coverings like wallpaper and particle board.  Aluminum, Copper and Silver based contents like silverware, decorative vases can become pitted and damaged with long term surface exposure to slimy toxic soot.  Finally, the high-pressure water from fire hoses, in fact any water, shot into the crevasses of interior spaces, attics, ceiling, behind walls and along floorboards and carpeting, if not removed and dried quickly will develop the additional and greater problem of toxic black mold.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries.

Our SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties experts...

530-222-0200

...study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration services.

Our on-site Project Manager and technicians bring to homeowners and businesses the following certifications.

Wildfire Preparedness - Preventative Steps to Protect your Property

Recognize that large flames don’t have to be close by to burn your home.  Wind gusts can blow glowing embers long distances into attic vents, under shingles and into openings in storage sheds and under wood deck porches.

Read the very interesting Smithsonian Magazine article:

Untangling the Physics Behind Drifting Embers, ‘Firenadoes’ and Other Wildfire Phenomena

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides helpful fire preparedness material on key steps you can take to help protect your home and property.   CalFire also provides helpful information here.

  • Thin out heavy accumulations of flammable brush, trees and vegetation around your property by creating safety zones called “defensible space”.  ( In fact, California law requires a 100 foot clearance around homes and structures.   For more information read the article: Defensible space for wildfires: It’s the law in California, and it works.)
  • Clear combustible materials away from your house, such as piles of firewood, propane tanks and gas grills.
  • Use fire-resistant roofing material and shingles like fiberglass, slate, metal, clay and concrete tile. 
  • Check and enclose sundecks and porches, as well as eaves and overhangs. Remove leaves, trash and other fire hazards away from decks and patios.  Especially accumulations of pine needles.
  • Clean out rain gutters on a regular basis, since debris can be ignited by wind-blown embers. If used, gutter covers should be noncombustible.
  • Cover house vents such as attic vents, soffit vents, or other openings with ¼ inch or smaller corrosion-resistant wire mesh. For chimneys and stovepipes, cover using 12-gauge spark arrestors or woven wire mesh.
  • Use fire resistant house siding such as stucco, metal, brick and cement, concrete and rock. Treat wood siding with UL-approved fire-retardant chemicals.
  • Treat windows to reduce fire risk. Recommended are dual or triple-paned thermal glass and fire-resistant shutters or drapes. Tempered glass windows and noncombustible awnings can also help reduce your risk.

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties is on-call 24/7 – 365 for you! 

We are able to amass considerable resources carrying the weight of the known and trusted SERVPRO Franchise Brand and are able to rapidly scale to meet the needs of any disaster.  This is why, again and again, insurance agents, real estate agents, facilities and property managers, home and business owners rely upon us as their trusted resource for water, fire, storm and mold cleanup and restoration emergencies. 

Call us at 530-222-0200 for immediate assistance for residential and commercial fire and water restoration and smoke odor removal cleaning services.

SERVPRO Recommends Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration Tips!

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Cleans Fire & Smoke Damage in your Redding Home or Business. Call Now! 530-222-0200

Top SERVPRO Fire Damage Helpful Answers!

Fire damage creates many problems for your home.  Complete and proper restoration not only for your health and safety but also to retain property value takes expertise and experience by certified professionals that only SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties in the Redding, California area can provide.  We operate from a homeowner’s perspective and understand the unique nuances of each fire, smoke, soot and ash cleanup and restoration encounter.

530-222-0200 

24 Hour A Day Emergency Fire & Water Clean Up & Restoration

We don’t play around. Fire damage restoration is technically advanced tough work requiring detail and the kind of focused care residential home owners and commercial businesses all up and down Northern California expect from our over two decades of intense community involvement here in Shasta County.

Our customers and online 5-star reviews on our SERVPRO website, Facebook page, Google Business listing and on Yelp speak for themselves. Insurance and real estate agents, apartment and multi-housing property managers, home and business owners constantly phone SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties to ask for advice on how to clean up after a fire. 

Self-Help Fire Damage Best Practices

Smoke Damage Removal

Sometimes, for example, after burning a holiday Turkey a greasy smoke film coats surfaces.  This yellow “protein” shellac produces a hard residue but also collects dust and produces discoloration if left on paint and cellulose based wall coverings. When that occurs phone us here in Redding at 530-222-0200.

Family & Pet Health and Safety Concerns

Smoke particles are often toxic from the burning of synthetic and chemical substances.  Soot particles can become embedded in carpets and upholstery.  Try to set down towels and plastic walkways in high traffic areas of your home – along entry points and hallways.  Finally understand the correct type of cleaning product for a particular job.  Remember to check and probably change your HVAC filters and also temporarily cut filter material to size and put over the air registers.

Getting Rid of Mold and Mildew

Firefighters are our local heroes however as we know they use water and sometimes chemical foam agents to extinguish fire.  In the process of saving lives, property and homes, the structure from roof to floor along with home furnishings and contents become soaked and wet with the acidic reaction of water to smoke and soot, areas become a breeding ground for flourishing mold spores to grow in the environment of sheetrock, wood, wet wallpaper paste and cellulose based surfaces. This also includes water logged mattresses and bedding providing the dank, hidden moist environment where mold colonies thrive

Our highly respected, recommended and trusted locally owned and operated SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties franchise here in the Redding Shasta-Cascade area strongly encourages you to call us as soon as possible.  Mold and mildew are considered by many health care professionals to facilitate adverse reactions.  SERVPRO professionals are trained, certified and equipped with the proper mold protection breathing gear to locate, identify and destroy mold growth at the source. 

From Roof to Floor – Water and Soot Go Down

** Watch Our Popular Video: Water Damage Hard Wood Floors Drying

All the water used to put out the fire, of course, flow to the lowest point in your home – the carpets and floor.   Most of the time SERVPRO professionals recommend lifting and removing carpets.  Water also seeps underneath the cracks and crevasses of hardwood and vinyl flooring frequently producing warping.  But there is more…firefighters generally spray water on the roof – the highest point of a home – which floods down through the attic, insulation, structural beams and into the walls.  Sheetrock becomes soaked. Once again, this kind of damage, with all the elements working together -  fire, smoke, water and mold -  is, most times, more than a homeowner can handle. 

SERVPRO is here to help!  530-222-0200

Dishes and Food Utensils – Soak, Scrub and Clean

Don’t forget that plates, bowls, knives, forks, pots and pans become coated with smoke residue from fire.  Items like wood spoons or bowls and rubber spatulas should probably be discarded because of their porous nature.  Food and acidic, toxic ash and soot don’t mix.

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties

Call Now! 530-222-0200

Fire Smoke Damage and SERVPRO Odor Removal

3/20/2019 (Permalink)

Odor from Smoke and Fire Damage? SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties is Your Solution! Call Now! 530-222-0200

Smoke can linger in your home after a fire and can damage your belongings.

The City of Redding and Shasta County, California home and property owners know well the lingering odor and persistent ash deposits from recent local fires, such as the Carr, Delta, Hirz, Camp and many others. Smoke enters attic vents, ventilation ducts and air conditioning systems to permeate furniture, books, electronic circuitry, carpet and belongings.  Additionally, health effects can occur from toxic synthetics burned off from automobile tires and far away chemical sites choking air quality from wind driven wildfires.

** More Info:  Look us up on Facebook and also read our many highly rated 5 star reviews on Google, Yelp and our website Customer Reviews Page.

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties professionals undergo rigorous restoration industry training and know how to get rid of soot and the damage caused by smoke that will be present in a home ravished by flames.

Smoke and Fire Damage?  Call Today!  530-222-0200

Smoke from home, industrial and natural wildfires, in this age of populations and people encroaching into our local wildland urban interface zones, contain a rich soup of long-chain hydrocarbons, wood ash, rubber, tar, exposed plastics, formaldehyde from burned particle-board home and structure building materials and a plethora of other unnatural and highly toxic smoke compounds sticking to the inside of homes on the walls and ceilings. 

After Fire Hazard: Smoke and Ash Odor Inside Your Home and Belongings

Smoke damage can involve more than creating black soot.  Most smoke particles, especially with the combustion of synthetic materials, when wet, creates an acidic, oily residue that can eat away and pit metal, such as range hoods, refrigerators as well as sentimental objects like tea sets and tin or silver heirloom items.  Our goal as a locally owned and operated SERVPRO Franchise here in the North State is to reduce costs, save and salvage to restore contents and valuables.  Many home furnishings and possessions simply need professional cleaning and odor removal.  Our certified and trained SERVPRO technicians have the resources and expertise to do just that.

** View our popular article: Fire Damage and Redding Home Preparedness

Also, another type of smoke residue requiring detailed attention and specialized cleaning techniques results from Protein Fires.   A simple example would be a Thanksgiving Turkey burned in a hot oven.  Meat consists of protein and fat.  When these burn in an enclosed space such as a home kitchen the smoke and fumes coat every surface imaginable with a hard-brownish protein shell. 

Redding residents know all too well the tragic and damaging long term results of area fires.  

You need a qualified, professional team to provide fast 24/7-365 fire, water and mold emergency cleanup and restoration to help get your home back to “Like it never even happened” condition for you and your family.

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties is here for you – “Not if” but “WHEN” you need us!

Smoke, Ash and Soot Cleaning – Odor Removal and Deodorization 

Call Now!  530-222-0200

Winter Home Fire Safety – SERVPRO Professional Advice

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Takes Your Redding Home Fire Safety Seriously! We can help you 24/7 - 365. Call Now! 530-222-0200

Trying to stay warm in your home during these Winter months here in Redding?  

Especially with the recent massive snow storm, fallen trees and Shasta County wide power outages homeowners are forced to take uncommon drastic measures to provide heat such as using inside propane burners, candles, wood stoves and open flames.  Even when the power is on traditional space heaters and electric blankets deserve the same precautions – clearing away low hanging sheets, towels and checking extension cords for bad plugs and frayed insulation.

Our SERVPRO office here in Redding, California receives ongoing phone calls from residents who have experienced Winter related fires in kitchens and living areas - all in an attempt to keep warm.  Our highly trained SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties technicians understand that accidents happen.

Helpful Tips For Home Fire Safety

  1. When the power is out, it is usually a bad choice to use propane heating units inside living areas simply because of the immense danger of carbon monoxide build up. CO2 is highly lethal in strong concentrations. Without odor or smell the gas from internal space heaters can produce loss of consciousness for occupants.
  2. When the power is out a home is generally dark. Extra caution is advised with an open heating flame being too close to unseen combustible material such as paper, bed sheets and fabric towels.
  3. When the power is on be on the lookout for damaged electric wall sockets and exposed wiring in extension cords. Also keep in mind that home electrical wiring and the circuit breaker can only take so much wattage on a particular circuit.  Always use common sense and follow the voltage limits and manufacturer directions on the device.

More Tips for Space and Propane Heater Safety

  1. A) Space heaters require a clear, flat surface for safety and to remain stable while in operation. 
  2. B)   Don’t put space heaters on carpets or rugs.
  3. C) Newer model heaters are installed with a floor shut off device that if the unit is leaning or falls shut off occurs.  Check your heater to make sure it has that device.
  4. D) The key safety point for propane heaters is to have adequate ventilation to outside air. Also battery powered combination smoke and carbon monoxide detectors installed around heating areas can be potential life savers – especially at night when temperatures drop, heaters are left on and occupants are asleep.
  5. E) Finally, children, pets and the elderly or those persons with compromised immune systems can be especially susceptible to the inhalation of invisible heater off-gassing, fumes and CO2. 

Your friends here at SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties hope that by implementing the above guidelines you never have to experience the impact of fire damage resulting from unsafe space heaters, propane heating units, and electrical device malfunctions.  

This winter season if you do experience any fire damage events in your home call us immediately for a fast day or night response from our trained and qualified Redding and Shasta County SERVPRO technicians.  

Call SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties Today!

530-222-0200

** Stay up to date on more timely news and safety tips by Liking and Following us on Facebook at:

@SERVPRONorthShastaTrinityGreaterTehamaCounties

Wildfire Risk for Redding Homes and Neighborhoods

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Get ready now for Wild Fire Season fast approaching! SERVPRO in Redding, California can help! Call Today! 530-222-0200

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties recognizes the high fire risk Shasta County home and property owners face living in suburban areas within Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) zones.  

530-222-0200

The City of Redding, California in July of 2018 suffered one of the most destructive wildfires in California history.  Burning nearly half a million acres the Carr Fire devastated in excess of 2,000 structures and burned over 270 homes.  Just when Northern California communities and residents thought there was some relief wildfire again reared its ugly head.  The Camp Fire, occurring in early November, raged with such speed and intensity fueled by decades of overgrown brush and high winds quickly burning through the Butte County mountain town of Paradise and covering the neighboring towns of Chico, Orland and surrounding areas with blankets of ash and soot.

** SEE: Community Planning Assistance for Wildfire Project – Redding, California

New construction will be held to higher standards of code requiring:

  • Defensible space requirements surrounding structures
  • Using ignition-resistant construction materials
  • Clearing brush, safer forestry management and implementing wildland vegetation strategies.

Living among neighbors when it comes to wildfires is a team effort.  A single home fortified by fire resistant building materials and defensible cleared space will still burn if surrounding homes ignite.  The goal is to reduce the effect of fast-moving wind-blown embers lighting on fire flammable roofing materials and being sucked into attic vents.  There are three hazardous fire zones around a home. 

** SEE: Wildfire Conflagration Continues Report

  • The closest defensible space to maintain is an immediate 5-ft non-combustible area around the house. To use a real-life example SERVPRO was called to an area in the hilly terrain of West Redding. When our team of fire and water damage restoration professionals arrived, they discovered that the home was saved from surrounding Carr Fire destruction because the homeowners had created a stone and rock landscaped perimeter completely around the house.  The fire burned right up the edge and stopped a few feet away from the structure and thus saved the home.
  • The second zone extends 30-feet out. This area creates open space with extensive brush and branch removal.
  • The third zone is meant to resist the speed of wildfire growth through additional brush reduction.

Be sure and take a look at our popular article: California’s Wildfires: The Perfect Shasta County Fire Conditions

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties provides fast on-site fire damage inspections for residual soot, ash and charred structure odor and cleanup. 

530-222-0200

Homeowners, neighborhoods and local Redding area communities like Anderson, Red Bluff, Corning, Orland, Mt. Shasta, Yreka, Dunsmuir, Weed and extending out to Weaverville, Shingletown and Bella Vista, rely upon the knowledge, fire risk mitigation expertise and fast smoke damage response SERVPRO brings to our North State area.

Camp Fire Paradise, Carr Fire Redding, SERVPRO and Wildfire Insurance Value

12/31/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damage? Call SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties at 530-222-0200.

California wildfires, like Redding’s #CarrFire and Butte County’s #CampFire consuming to apocalyptic devastation massive sections of overgrown forest throughout our SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties region, extended, by surprise in early November, to destroy the entire town of Paradise in Butte County.  Our sister SERVPRO franchise in Chico suffered loss.  The fortitude and support of national SERVPRO STORM teams rushing to aid continues deploying an ever-increasing multitude of fire damage restoration professionals, air cleaning equipment and resources from the San Francisco Bay area, Southern California, Oregon, Nevada and beyond, to soot, ash and smoke odor infused structures in the immediate Northern California footprint of wildfire damaged communities.

SERVPRO – Trusted by Homeowners and Businesses  - Fire & Water Damage Restoration.  Call Now!  530-222-0200

Residents and business owners increasingly enjoy all that California has to offer and choose to build homes, commercial buildings, and multi-unit housing properties in what are known as “wildland urban interface areas”.  These areas such as the Paradise community, Magalia and in Redding the French Gulch, Shasta, Keswick, Swazey Drive, Centerville, Marylake Subdivison, Lake Redding Estates, River Ridge Park areas and many others are surrounded by compressed and largely uncleared, indefensible, Manzanita trees fueled by natural oils that burn with ferociously hot temperatures.  High winds and long hot dry Summers create these all-to-often perfect fire-storm conditions igniting California oakwoods, Juniper steppe woodlands, mixed conifer and fir forests, Ponderosa shrubs and Cedar, hemlock, and Douglas fir wildland areas; all surrounding the ever-expanding neighborhoods, homes, businesses and schools.

Let’s talk about Homeowners Insurance:  It should be very simple.  Policy premium is calculated from the cost to replace the premises value.  The problem arises when multiple massive California wildfires occur in a short time.  Essentially insurance companies run out of money to continue to write home and property coverage.  Market value of a home and it’s replacement cost are two different things.  A totally burned structure includes the additional insurance claims components of toxic residue disposal, soil testing and debris clean up along with a whole host of additional unknown factors such as contractor licensing, Shasta, Trinity, Tehama and Butte Counties permitting, lead and asbestos testing along with local, state and federal regulations.

The point is that California insured who own homes must be insured to value.  Many, it turns out; are not. This could be from not keeping up to date on increased valuations from remodeling and home improvement or insufficient value calculations at the inception of the policy.  The key target insurance providers are looking for is that property owners meet the 80% of replacement value threshold.  This industry threshold is known as “coinsurance.”  When total-loss occurs the policy limit is paid out and when partial loss occurs the full amount of repairs is paid out.  SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties has been working with insurance agents and insurance claims adjusters for years.  We work with all the well-respected names like State Farm, Farmers, AllState, and many others. We have long standing friendships and relationships with our local Redding, Mt. Shasta, Red Bluff, Weed, Yreka and Weaverville insurance property and casualty specialists.   

Defensible Space Zones

There are two zones to consider when clearing and maintaining open space.

Zone 1 – Extends out 30 feet from the structure and decks.

Zone 2 – Extends an additional 100 feet out.

A recent example tells the story.  Our SERVPRO soot and smoke odor inspection teams are regularly called out to homes that survived the Carr Fire.  Many residents tell their story of coming back and finding that the early efforts they made to clear brush, remove trees, take down dead branches and large dry collections of leaves as well as install gravel and water saving landscaping open spaces all paid off when the flames burned just up to the edge of their property and stopped. 

Within both of these zones removal is required for excess vegetation, dead plants, woodpiles, leaves and pine needles and certainly tightly overgrown Manzanita and wildland grass that fuels the ignition point of a not-if-but-when wildfire disaster.

Call SERVPRO in Redding, California.  Our response times are very fast! 

We are available round-the-clock at 530-222-0200

Visit and like us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPRONorthShastaTrinityGreaterTehamaCounties/

Redding Fire Damage Repair and Cleaning – Smoke, Odor, Soot & Ash

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

Fire, Smoke, Soot and Ash Damage Cleaning in Redding and Shasta County? Call SERVPRO Now! 530-222-0200

Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration – SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties

Redding suffered the traumatizing #CarrFire and as we know all too well, an uncontrollable wildfire can wreak chaos in communities like we saw in Shasta Lake, Dunsmuir, Whisketown, Centerville, Igo, and beyond.  Redding is #ShastaStrong and we support our local CalFire, Redding firefighters and community efforts to come together and transform our wonderful Northern California city.  As we move into the final weeks of the year, the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays approach, skies turn cloudy, and the rains come, the nights are earlier.  SERVPRO, however, as Redding’s premiere fire and water damage restoration leader continues to provide front-line support to home owners, residents and commercial business properties.  

Firefighters use water to fight and extinguish most home and business fires.  Water may stop the flames however it also creates secondary acidic soot from smoke damage that accelerates the deterioration and corrosion of aluminum, window and mirrors, paint, walls, precious contents, business documents, circuit boards in electronics and your other vital assets.  Additionally, the toxic smoke odor left behind must be neutralized and deodorized.

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties fire restoration process and services can include:

After-the-Fire Considerations

  1. Relocate children, elderly and family pets to a clean air and smoke-free environment.

Home and commercial fires burn chemical sealant-soaked wood framework, plastic insulation, rubber, batteries, foam insulation along with arsenic and formaldehyde-based particle board home furnishings.   These produce toxic black long-chain hydrocarbons and extremely cancer-causing carcinogenic gases that can affect health and compromised immune systems.

  1. Have a neighbor you trust.

We all share the pain of a local disaster.  Make arrangements with a friendly neighbor beforehand for mutual support, and a plan B backup location for meeting loved ones and safely gathering. 

  1. Phone SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties at 530-222-0200

Call Us! – You will need professional fire damage emergency clean up and restoration help.  Before you get too busy, hire a fire remediation specialist who can start work on getting your home or business back the way it was.

Finally, watch out for exposed, frayed wiring from extension cords or Christmas tree lights.  Be extremely careful of properly putting out holiday festive candles and scented pots.  We also recommend keeping an up-to-date fire extinguisher handy and close by cooking areas. Check your smoke detectors.

530-222-0200

Visit us on Facebook at: /SERVPRONorthShastaTrinityGreaterTehamaCounties

Carr Fire Smoke, Soot, Ash, Odor and Fire Damage Clean Up

8/15/2018 (Permalink)

Carr Fire destroyed homes in Northern California. SERVPRO Fire and Emergency Disaster Clean Up teams support Shasta County and Redding residents.

SERVPRO Can Help – Redding, California

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties understand the unprecedented disasters that have affected our community.  SERVPRO STORM Disaster Response teams from Oregon, Idaho, Montana and across California have converged on the City of Redding and Shasta County with one goal in mind.  Quick and effective response helping property owners return to a clean and odor free home. 

We are a highly trusted Redding Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration provider.  Because of our many years of experience on the front lines serving Shasta County communities we are receiving a high number of intakes from Carr Fire affected housing subdivisions such as Lake Keswick Estates, River Ridge Terrace, Stanford Manor, Land Park Subdivision, Lake Redding Estates, Sunset West, Mary Lake Subdivision and many others. We are working around the clock to respond to questions and get services dispatched quickly.

(530) 222-0200 

We wanted to provide you with a selection of updated links and information for Shasta County and the City of Redding, CA

Carr Fire Recovery - Resources for fire, disaster relief, recovery, and rebuilding

How to apply for fire property clean up:

www.shastareddingrecovers.org

Shasta County Health and Human Services:

https://www.co.shasta.ca.us/index/hhsa_index.aspx

Shasta County Assessor/Recorder Carr Fire page:

https://www.co.shasta.ca.us/index/assessor_index/carr-fire-page

Protect yourself from Wildfire Smoke handout:

https://bit.ly/2w67FmD

Top 5 Tips to Protect yourself from Wildfire Smoke handout:

https://bit.ly/2vSYxT9

Call us today for a fast on-site soot, smoke and ash assessment of your property. 

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties

(530) 222-0200

The Carr Fire and SERVPRO

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

#CarrFire Devastation - SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties provides Fire Damage Clean Up and Restoration - 530-222-0200

 Redding, CA – The Carr Fire produced fire damage devastation as it tore through homes and property in Shasta County during several days and nights the last week in July.  Many families suffered complete property loss.  

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama supports the efforts of CalFire, Redding Fire, Redding Police, California Highway Patrol and the vast array of first responders flooding into Redding and Shasta County contain the wildfire and protect our Northern California community.

We understand property loss and work with insurance agents to quickly mitigate damage and reduce claims.  Our SERVPRO professional technicians have the experience and training necessary to clean up toxic fire residue, smoke, soot and deodorize the residual odor.

As Carr Fire evacuees and residents make their way back to their neighborhoods to assess damage and file insurance clams remember that we at SERVPRO have your back.   We are a trusted and experienced Redding, California fire and water damage restoration provider.  Our 5 star Google, Facebook and Yelp reviews, compassion and experience speak for themselves. 

We are not out of the woods yet.  More wildfires can wreak devastation upon other areas of Redding.   The heat of August will continue.  Unburned areas of the city are still a potential tinderbox of dry brush and combustible vegetation.

With large loss devastation such as the nightmare of this #CarrFire we have at our disposal SERVPRO disaster recovery teams and equipment to provide massive resources for emergency clean up and restoration in Redding and beyond.  These catastrophic storm and major event loss teams deal with hurricanes and flooding in the East and South and fire damage restoration here in California.

Remember:  Create defensible space around your home and property.    When the unexpected fire, smoke and soot damage occurs call SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties

24/7 – 365

(530) 222-0200

Fire Damage in Redding, California

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage is sudden and unexpected. Call Now. (530) 222-0200

Fire goes by many names – structure fires, grass fires, forest fires, wildland fires.  

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties knows well the economic and personal impact these fires unleash upon lives and property in the Shasta County region. Homes in North Redding, Shasta Lake City, Shingletown, Bella Vista, Palo Cedro, the secluded mountain properties around Weaverville and the grassy brush around Red Bluff are all beautiful places to live.  However, these pristine environments providing quality of life to business and homeowners face great risk during the hot and dry summer in the Shasta Basin.  Fire is a sudden and uncontrollable force of nature.

Residents who live within our high-risk fire zone include children, the elderly, and disabled.  Disaster preparedness and fire safety education are essential. SERVPRO is a trusted Redding restoration provider and offers a free Emergency Ready Plan on-site evaluation of your home or business. 

Redding is Northern California’s gateway to many beautiful Shasta-Cascade tourist and vacation locations.  Beginning in late Spring and throughout the Summer an increase of seasonal tourists, absentee home owners, vacation time-share properties, summer lake cabin residents, hunters, and back country campers enjoy the region.  Part of SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties’ responsibility is to reach out to rental management companies, property managers, real estate agents and insurance producers to inform them of the local fire danger and build rapport to perform an emergency preparedness home assessment on their property.

Wildfire safety tips include:

  • building relationships with local fire first responders before a fire starts;
  • a realistic understanding of local emergency responders in the first 24 hours of a fire;
  • taking action to protect your Home Ignition Zone and Defensible Space;
  • create and maintain a fuel-free area;
  • clearing vegetation along fences and near combustible structures;
  • proper landscaping and plant selection;
  • moving sheds, fuel tanks and wood piles away from the side of a home or business;
  • pruning dead branches and dry brush growth;
  • clearing unseen vegetation from wood patio decks;
  • understanding high-wind ember danger;
  • paying attention to radio, phone, tv and internet fire alerts;
  • Perhaps the most important - having a personal and family preparedness plan – this also includes preparing for your family pet.

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties wishes Redding residents a wonderful and fun Shasta Summer.  

We are always here to help.   In the event you do experience unexpected fire damage call us 24 – 7 / 365 at (530) 222-0200

Fire Damage and Redding Home Preparedness

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Repair, Clean Up, and Restoration in Redding, California and Shasta County - (530) 222-0200

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties believes that the best fire damage defense of your home and property is preparation.

The following key points help homeowners to fight fire before is happens.

Defensible Space: Clear space at a minimum of 30 feet between your home or building structure and the high-risk fire prone combustible brush, trees and vegetation area that surrounds it. The cleared area provides a buffer between you home and the fire.  Creating defensible space serves the dual purpose of increasing structural survivability by reducing radiant head and reducing the exposure to direct flame.  

www.firewise.org/resources/firefighter.htm

Burning Embers: Although you home may have cleared space during a fire windblown ember create another direct threat. Believe it or not most of homes and buildings within a major fire event are not destroyed by direct fire contact but rather from embers blown onto roof shingles and into attic crawlspaces through vents in heavy wind.  These burning brands and yellow-hot embers are blown great distances from the flames of the fire front.  These wind-driven sparks fall upon unchecked piles of combustible materials – wood, brush, chemical and fuel storage areas and often smolder and go undetected until igniting. 

Look at this video by the National Institute of Science and Technology of their “Firebrand Generator”It blows hot embers or “firebrands” into a test chamber to model the behavior of high winds during a real wildfire as sources of ignition for homes and structures.

Hardening Your Home:  Doors and windows are not the only access point into a home.  Structural changes to unseen entry points like roofs, vents and eves, can potentially increase a home’s chance of surviving a fire.

The Home Ignition Zone: Step back and look at the entire surroundings including neighboring homes, fences, land topology, trees and vegetation, water sources and fire fighter access to the high-fire hazard areas.  Preparedness considerations include the following:

  • Rain gutters collect dead leaves, debris and pine needles that can catch wind-blown embers.
  • Embers can penetrate missing or loose roof shingles. Replace or repair.
  • Install 1/8-inch metal mesh screens in the eaves and exterior attic vents to help prevent hot coals that could blow through vents.
  • Enclose patio and deck overhangs with wire mesh or screens. Also check windows and window screens for damage and openings where and ember could ignite combustible materials. 
  • Check exterior walls for debris and remove accumulations of mulch, flammable plants, leaves and needles, firewood piles – anything that can burn. Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches.

Call SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties 24/7 – 365.  

(530) 222-0200 

Also Follow and Like Us on our FaceBook page at:   https://www.facebook.com/SERVPRONorthShastaTrinityGreaterTehamaCounties/

Fire property damage in Redding and Shasta County

5/14/2018 (Permalink)

Redding Home - Fire, Smoke & Soot Damage. Also remember Water Damage comes from the firefighting efforts. Call SERVPRO at (530) 222-0200

California Fire Insurance Claims and SERVPRO

The potential for loss of life and property in our community from a catastrophic Northern California fire is heartbreaking to consider. SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties is by your side working with your agent, insurance claims adjuster, and insurer with a goal of achieving a settlement that you believe is fair and consistent with your coverage. We understand your challenge. Fire damage loss takes away the safety, security, and sometimes lifetime of memories we all know and cherish in the place we call home.

Our SERVPRO office staff and team of property damage restoration experts understand some of the key insurance coverage terms that typically apply.  We provide these tips to help you settle a claim and avoid common pitfalls that can occur along the way.

  1. The more information you have about your damaged home and belongings, the sooner your claim will be settled. After the fire department has left, time is of the essence and fast content clean up and emergency board up is essential to protecting your property.  SERVPRO technicians assess the fire damage.
  1. We work along side insurance adjusters to evaluate three areas:
    1. Degree of damage
    2. Quality of materials and workmanship
    3. Measurements needed to calculate quantities
  1. Obtain a complete copy of your residential insurance policy, including your declarations page.
  1. Take note of your Additional Living Expense (ALE) limits and manage your ALE expenses in recognition of a long rebuilding process.
  1. Track all of your additional expenses that arise from having to live in another location away from your home.
  1. Document all of your conversations with your insurer/adjuster about your claim and policy limitations.
  1. Get at least one licensed contractor's estimate or bid on the cost to rebuild your home. We work with some of the best and most reliable contractors in Shasta, Trinity, and Tehama counties and can provide contact information upon request. Phone us at (530) 222-0200
  1. Public adjusters require a percentage of the claim settlement for their services. Make sure you understand what they charge and the services you are paying for before you sign a contract. Also, a public adjuster cannot charge a fee for payments already received from the insurance company, so you should consider getting as much advance payment as possible from the insurance company (without signing a final release) before hiring a public adjuster.

Fire damage restoration is our specialty.  Years of trusted experience from hundreds of Redding and North State residents continues to lay the ground work for our tireless efforts to provide 24 / 7 – 365 fast response to any fire and water emergency. 

Remember that the water used to extinguish the fire produces further smoke and soot runoff structural and property damage. 

(530) 222-0200

California’s Wildfires: The Perfect Shasta County Fire Conditions

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

California Fire Season is Here. Be Safe and Prepare.

Fire damage season is fast approaching.  The City of Redding is preparing for what could possibly be a very intense fire season. 

Heat, high winds along with dry vegetation and brush can quickly cause loss of life and devastate large tracts of residential and commercial property.  SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties stands by our local Fire Department first responders and community. 

We are also on the front lines as well.  Our fire and smoke damage restoration process begins when YOU become our Emergency Contact by phoning us at (530) 222-0200 alerting us of the fire damage event so we can respond immediately.

Growing Fire Problem in Shasta County

We enjoy our respected position in Northern California as a “go-to” and trusted restoration provider.  SERVPRO also recognizes the beauty of the North State can be marred by arson, reckless and unsafe fire practices, increasing human activity and unextinguished burn piles and wilderness camp fires.

Living in California means learning to live with fire.  Our Mediterranean climate with cool, wet winters and dry, hot summers along with the combination of geography, vegetation, and seasonal weather extremes creates an active and dramatic fire environment.   California’s ecosystems require fire as a necessary component of wildland health by clearing dead brush, clearing forest growth and releasing seeds to the fertile ash enhanced ground.  As we all know, California has expanding population centers settling into fire-prone areas.  SERVPRO reminds the reader that it is only a matter of time before homes and businesses in the Redding area confront fire damage.

Except for the Mohave Desert, Redding and the Shasta Basin experience the hottest summer temperature anywhere in California. The broiling temperatures in Central Valley cities like Fresno and Bakersfield are routinely surpassed by Redding’s thermal belt. We are geographically surrounded by mountains showcasing the snowy beauty of North State winters and during summer producing a wall against ocean breezes and the cooling wind blowing upstate from Sacrament / San Joaquin delta.

Listed below is a short list of major wild fires in Shasta County

  • In June 2008, the Popcorn Fire joined with the Peterson Fire to become the Peterson Complex and burned 3,100 acres near Little Valley in the Lassen National Forest in Shasta County and Lassen County.
  • In June and July 2008, the Shasta-Trinity Lightning Complex of fires burned 86,500 acres, destroyed 6 residences and 16 outbuildings, and burned throughout Shasta County and Trinity County.
  • In August 2009, the SHU Lightning Complex burned 17,623 acres in the Burney Area of Shasta County.
  • The 2014 Bald Fire started on July 30 and burned 39,736 acres 8 miles southeast of Fall River Mills on the Lassen National Forest in Shasta County.
  • The Eiler Fire started on Jul 31, 2014 and burned 32,416 acres near Old Station, 12 miles southeast of Burney in Shasta County.
  • The Coffee Fire started July 30, 2014 and burned 6,258 acres near East Fork of the Coffee Creek
  • The Laverne Fire started on July 18, 2017, off of Laverne Ln & Saddle Trail, 6 miles southeast of Redding in Shasta County and burned 180 acres.

Our concern is first and foremost for the safety and wellbeing of our local community.

For any Fire Emergency call us immediately 24/7 – 365 at (530) 222-0200 for smoke, soot, burn and water damage.  We provide content pack out and emergency board up to protect your belongings and property. 

Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

Home and Business Fire Damage Restoration - (530) 222-0200

Hit with fire or smoke damage? Call SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties at (530) 222-0200

Fire can cause extensive amounts of property damage.  Smoke odor settles into the deep layers of home furnishings, structural building material, clothing and through the heat vents of consumer electronics.  Smoke soot damage, often turned acidic from fire fighters water, attacks mirror patina, the solder on circuit boards inside your television, silver flatware, chrome kitchen utensils and erodes, walls, paint, blinds and drapes.  SERVPRO understands that your cherished family possessions along with your sentimental family memories require immediate attention of fire damage experts who can carefully pack up and put into action state of the art restorative water drying and professional cleaning technologies.

Your local Redding and Shasta County SERVPRO franchise is available 24/7 to help minimize the cost of fire and smoke damage to your home.

Our fire restoration process includes:

  • 24/7 emergency services – onsite and assisting you within hours
  • Prompt damage assessment, pretesting and estimates
  • Emergency board-up and structural stabilization
  • Environmentally friendly methods for cleaning soot and other residue from fire damage
  • Smoke odor removal, sanitation and air purification
  • Careful removal and securing of damaged household goods, personal possessions and other contents for cleaning and restoration
  • Industrial grade water extractors, dehumidifiers, air movers and other equipment used to efficiently remove water resulting from fire extinguishing efforts
  • Reconstruction of the affected areas
  • Disinfectants and antimicrobials used to prevent mold and mildew

Why Trust SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties?

Our 24 /7 availability and quick response means we can get your property back to normal faster. We are an IICRC Restoration industry leading franchise.  Our onsite technicians can utilize their specialized training, cleaning methods and equipment combined with our many years of trust built in the local Redding community to quickly clean up and lower smoke damage restoration costs often being able to restore the contents of your home to a “Like it never even happened” condition.

We also have developed close business relationships with many local real estate and insurance agents and adjusters.  We can help you navigate through your California homeowners or commercial insurance claims process to make it as painless as possible for you.

If you have experienced fire & smoke damage in your home, call the fire damage restoration & smoke cleanup experts at SERVPRO.  

(530) 222-0200

Fire Damage Property Casualty Insurance Strategies

3/5/2018 (Permalink)

Insurance Fire Damage Policy Coverage - Read the Details, Plan, and Be Prepared.

Most Fire damage residential insurance policies provide coverage. 

However, there is more to the story.  Coverage costs increase in high-risk areas such as near fire-prone terrain.  In Northern California whole communities have been destroyed and insurance dollars for home rebuilding skyrocket with materials and labor.  Insurance coverage promotion offering “peace of mind” quite often leave out the reality of the fine print.  Insurance adjusters ultimately decide the final costs of claims.

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties provides this information to help inform our local North State residents on staying informed and safe as fire season approaches.  (530) 222-0200

Insurance companies such as Farmers, Allstate and State Farm become careful after regional fires about homes they cover.  Every year large portions of California, because of the drought, Santa Ana Winds and especially large human population, burn down.  In these cases, insurers typically work with already insured property owners to handle and expedite fire claims.  Residents seeking new policies for homeowners and property insurance may not be able to obtain those policies so easily.

See the following links for further insurance risks associated with fire.

Property Casualty Insurers Association of America  - Wide range of information for water, fire, storm and disaster casualty and property damage events.

California FAIR plan – this is a last resort insurance program and helpful to take a look at.,

Additionally, Hazards Fuel (i.e. Vegetation) dried and combustion prone in the summer heat remains a top risk maintenance priority by the Redding Fire Department. Collaboration throughout Shasta County with partners at Redding Electric Utility (www.reupower.com), our Redding Parks & Recreation Department (www.reddingrecreation.org), and CALFIRE (www.shastacountyfire.org).  For more information on the hazard fuel reduction program, please contact the Redding Fire Marshal at (530) 225-4575.

Commercial entities and Businesses (City of Redding Code of Ordinances (9.20.050)) allows for annual fire safety self-inspections.  Business safety is key.  Tips on the inspection process are as follows:

  1. Exit doors are fully operational and clear of debris.
  2. Electrical switches and cover plate are installed and in code.
  3. Extension cords in good condition.
  4. All doors and exits are use appropriate signs.
  5. Fire extinguishers are in date and properly pressurized.
  6. Sprinkler and overhead extinguishing systems are inspected and in date.
  7. Clear space for Inventory, machinery and boxes stored 18 inches from fire sprinkler systems.  

Preparing for fire damage in the Golden State requires a dual strategy.  Personal and companywide assessment and preparation are critical.  Knowing the fine print of your insurance coverage and keeping it up to date is also essential. Regional fire damage also has the economic impact of increasing construction material costs such as wood, concrete and electrical wiring.   

Talk with your insurance company and agent about an extended replacement cost endorsement. Essentially it is paying a small additional fee which provides coverage for a portion of the unexpected additional costs of rebuilding your home or business. The extended endorsement is additional coverage intended to accommodate at least a portion of any unexpected cost increases.

Emergency Board Up After Home and Commercial Fire Damage

1/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO - Industry Leader in Home and Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Local Shasta County home and business owners

...who experience property fire damage will benefit by calling a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties who specializes in the full scope of fire clean up and emergency board up. The process includes utilizing specialized tools and technology to eliminate excess debris and particles from the fire, smoke and soot damage.  The point of quick response and mitigation is simply to preserve the value of the property, protect an owner’s investment and make heroes of insurance agents by reducing claim expenses.  Boarding up windows, doors and property access points provides a level of security, asset protection, prevention against theft and vandalism along with protecting against ongoing severe weather.

Residential and commercial property fire damage is not just the immediate fire and water used to extinguish. Ongoing aftereffects like smoke, protein fire residue, soot and the resulting odor soak into walls, flooring, the internal space of electronic equipment and any porous wood or cloth material.  The point of fast board up and internal cleaning of debris and particles is to quickly stop the process of destruction and save whatever is left to prevent further ruin. When a fire burns through a home or business the contents contain a plethora of chemical, industrial and manufacturing compounds – electronic and business equipment, plastics, heavy metals in circuit boards, flat screen TV’s and foam, synthetic materials in carpet, couches and flooring.  The smoke, soot and thus odor is in fact extremely toxic from the long chain hydrocarbons sticking to the internal surfaces. When the firemen use water to extinguish the flames the burned out toxic residue mixes with water and forms an acidic compound slowly etching and eating away at surfaces.  

Fast emergency pack out and board up by your local disaster restoration provider is paramount.  That is exactly why we have a team of trained technicians in our Redding, CA facility who wipe down and clean individual contents such as plates, books, family heirlooms, pictures, business equipment and many more.  Quickly removing the soot, acidic reaction and thus odor whether through state of the art ultrasonic chemical bath or a complete individual cleaning of items, sanitizing and restoring contents to a like new condition.  Particularly from homes, many items we restore are sentimental and irreplaceable.  Emergency board up is much more than sealing and securing a structure.   Board ups become a first step of preservation not only of property but more importantly memories, investments, and time.  The “Why” behind what we at SERVPRO do really comes from compassion and holding “your best interest” to the highest level.

Phone us at any time of the day or night, 365 days a year.  We are your resource to call when the unexpected occurs.

(530) 222-0200

October Fire Safety Month and Your Emergency Escape Plan

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

Using A Fire Extinguisher - Remember P.A.S.S - Pull Aim Squeeze Sweep

Focus on Fire 

Fall and winter weather, coupled with seasonal holiday heating, cooking, and decorations, typically brings about an increase in residential fire frequency.  SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties fire damage restoration experts realize that people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it's too late to get out.  In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared with an escape plan in place.  Once a plan is developed, it is critical everyone in the home understands the plan; the best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year.

Working smoke detectors along with building and practicing a home escape plan increase your chance of surviving a fire.  The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) promotes steps to help you develop an emergency escape plan.  Simply having a plan for your home or business is not enough.  Your family and employees must be fully aware of the plan and practice it on a regular basis.

Preparation and Practice Are Key.

Fire Prevention Week in October

Draw a map of each level of your home and show all doors and windows.  Find two ways to get out of each room.  Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily. 

Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second and third floors.  Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory.  Store them near the window where they will be used.

Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance from your home where everyone can meet after they've escaped.  Make sure to mark the meeting location on your escape plan.

Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them.  Plan for everyone in your home with special considerations for elderly or disabled individuals.

Practice your fire escape plan at night and during the daytime.

Your local SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties Professionals want you to stay safe and prepare now to ensure an enjoyable Holiday Season.  If you do suffer a fire loss we provide fire cleaning and restoration services.  Local community members - insurance, commercial and residential - value our fast response, professional technicians, and long history of smoke, soot, and fire damage cleanup.

Call us 24/7 

365 Days a Year

(530) 222-0200

Fire Safe Your Home in Shasta County, CA

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

Fire safety readiness is the key in Shasta County

Fire Safety. Preparation and Readiness in Shasta County, California

The topic this season is all about Fire Safety. Preparation and Readiness are the key. The professional team at SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties is there for you after the damage, but what should you do to fire safe your home?

24/7 (530) 222-0200

  • Clean dead leaves and needles from your roof and gutters.
  • If you are reroofing, follow your fire department current roofing standards.
  • Cover your chimney outlet and stovepipe with 1/2" mesh screen.
  • Enclose the underside of eaves, decks and balconies with fire resistant materials to keep out flying embers.
  • Stack woodpiles at least 30 feet from all structures
  • Locate LPG tanks 30 feet away from structures; maintaing 10 feet of clear space around the tank.
  • When replacing windows install on dual or triple pane windows.
  • Establish defensible space.
  • Install Smoke Detectors
  • Keep a charged ABC type fire extinguisher in your kitchen and garage.  Know how to us it!

In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your Redding home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. This type of damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

How to Understand Fire Damage Cleanup

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

Residential and commercial fire damage isn't easy to repair.

Fire Damage Restoration from a Trusted Source

When a fire rips through your home or business, the smoke damage and Fire Damage can be overwhelming. You don't know where to begin with your fire cleanup. You're dealing with a smoke smell that won't go away, smoke damage, soot damage, and fire damage.

Fire in the home and fire in the business can cause extensive damage. Fire damage restoration is not a job you should handle on your own. SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Tehema Counties professionals are able to deal with commercial fire damage and damage caused by fire in the home. As the top rated restoration company in Shasta County we can assist you with fire damage restoration from start to finish.

(530) 222-0200

Decisions after the Fire

Once the fire is over and the fire department considers the property to be safe after fire in the home or fire in the business, you have decisions to make. You may think you can board up your property and begin the fire cleanup process, but this is a job for the professionals. When residential or commercial fire damage strikes, you will be left with fire damage, soot damage, and smoke damage.

The smoke smell will be so heavy you are afraid it will never go away. SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties can handle the fire cleanup and fire damage restoration job for you. We begin by choosing to board up your windows for safety purposes after evaluating the extent of fire damage after you have experienced fire in the home or fire in the business.

We will be able to deal with every aspect of your fire cleanup job after there has been a fire in the house or fire in the business. The process begins by using various types of industrial chemicals to clean all of the surfaces that have been affected by fire damage, soot damage, and smoke damage.

We can handle commercial fire damage and residential damage. The size of the property doesn't matter. We will put the processes in place to board up the property to protect it from intrusion, eliminate the smoke smell, and tackle every type of damage that has occurred.

The use of the proper tools, technique, and cleaning products will effectively address soot damage, as well as every other type of damage that has taken place.

If it is possible to salvage your property after residential or commercial fire damage, SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties will help you to put this terrible time behind you. 

Residential and commercial fire damage isn't easy to repair, but a professional service will be with you every step of the way to help you cope during this difficult time. You will be able to get back to a normal life once your cleanup and restoration is over.

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties - (530) 222-0200

Fire Damage Restoration - Redding / Shasta County, CA

8/25/2017 (Permalink)

If you are in Redding and need fire damage restoration, contact us today! 530-222-0200

Fire Damage Restoration Priorities

After fire damage takes place in a property, certain factors need careful consideration.

1. Turn off all electrical appliances to assist in proper disaster management.

2. Check for water leakage and seepage. This is primarily because more than often water damage can be more devastating than destruction due to a fire breakout. The after effects of extinguishing fire using water can be drastic to cope with.

3. Take photos of soot and accumulated dirt damage.Take pictures of the damage that has occurred which can be of great assistance when seeking help from your insurance claims company.

4.  Check for any salvageable items and household objects that can be recovered. Then you will require throwing away those items that essentially cannot be recovered. Contact the insurance company and make sure you bring all your documents and photos of the damage so you’ll exactly know what will be covered in the event of fire damage.

5.  Make a list of all the items that have been destroyed in the fire along with their original prices. This will enable you to recover the amount of funds to help restore your home after the damage. However, all such tasks can be quite hectic and having little or no experience in such areas can actually prove to be highly frustrating.

In such an event, it best to seek help from a fire damage and repair service company who can come over to access the amount of destruction taken place. Such professionals have the suitable training and license to ensure that this kind of damage is handled properly. 

Fire damage restoration requires the assistance of specialist in the field. SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties provides you with a valuable overview of  services, costs and consumer reviews that will help you greatly in narrowing down your searches.

For instance, there are several companies in areas that are the most effected due to fire and water damage from natural calamities. Most of these incidents are reportedly said to take place near the coastal areas and places most hit by intense weather conditions like excessive rainfall. In U.S alone the cases of fire and water damage is growing at enormous rate each year due to the various incidents that occur frequently.

Such places in North America like Redding, Shasta, Trinity and Tehama counties are known to be severely affected due to intense climatic conditions. Residents of the area have received professional guidance from local fire damage repair companies that provide the much needed assistance in such events. When looking for such companies make sure that you request for an average estimate of the costs required for damage recovery. This should also include the total cost of the services and the time needed to work on the project.

The damage repair company must be able to exhibit adequate expertise and generate experience related to the field. Also, verify whether the fire damage recovery provider is insured and licensed. There are several benefits to hiring fire damage repair assistance companies as they have the necessary tools and expertise to restore the home. Having a professional team to come over and indulge into the repair work is beneficial since it could be unsafe for you to handle hazardous toxins in the home without assistance. This kind of an expert damage recover service provider will also save you time and money. 

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties - (530) 222-0200

The Toxic Chemicals and Fumes of Fire Damage

8/25/2017 (Permalink)

Getting fire damage taken care of quickly.

Mitigating Fire Damage - Toxic Fumes, Deposits and Chemicals

If you have never had to deal with fire damage in your home before, then you may not realize how big of a problem it can be. If your home catches on fire, there are many toxic chemicals that will be released as the various items around your house catch fire.

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties is committed to a fast and professional response.

Call Us 24/7 - (530) 222-0200

The smoke that is produced by the fire in your home will quickly cover everything with toxic black deposits. If you attempt to move back into your home even after the fire is put out but before it is deemed safe by professionals, you will be putting yourself directly in the path of all the toxic fumes that are being left by the smoke residue.

Another thing that you might find is that there is extensive fire damage to the rafters in your roof, which can cause an unsafe condition. Because of this, it is not suggested to enter your home again after the fire is put out until you have had a professional restoration crew take a look at the fire damage and see how bad it is. Usually the home will need to be cleaned up before you can safely move back in with your family.

Over the years of working with victims of fire damage, our team at SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Tehama Counties has helped many homeowners restore their property.

While a fire can be a traumatic event, there are steps you can take to mitigate the long-term effect that it has on your life. Getting the fire damage taken care of quickly afterwards is a great way to move forward.

(530) 222-0200

Shasta, Trinity & Tehama County California Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/23/2017 (Permalink)

Fire and Smoke Damage Expertise and Experience

Fire, Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Shasta County, CA Home.

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 North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties 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

Meet The Team

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama County - Company Profile

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 – (530) 222-0200

Tips for Safe Summer Grill Cleaning

8/23/2017 (Permalink)

Delicious Food! Easy Cleanup!

If you're a Redding / Shasta County local, you know how gorgeous the weather can be in the summer. Our beautiful blue skies and high temps always inspire a barbecue. After you grill, watch some TV and catch up with your pals, then, it's time to clean up.

It's a job that nobody likes to do, but it has to be done. A grill that's mired in excessive grit and soot can become a hazard and could lead to fire damage on your property.

If you're already trying to deal with extensive fire damage, don't panic, because SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties got your back. With 24/7 emergency service and highly trained technicians on call, SERVPRO can respond faster to any size disaster.

(530) 222-0200

It's a hassle to get your grill back in top shape, but with these four tips for grill cleaning, you'll have a spotless grill in no time.

  1. Safety First!

Always make sure to follow proper safety procedures! This is true whether you're looking to spot clean after you've grilled food or you're gunning for a more in-depth, thorough cleaning.

Ensure that each of the knobs is OFF. Next, you are using propane, make sure the tank is closed. Following that, check that the grill is on a stable, even surface; and that the grill is no longer hot before you touch any of its individual parts without protection.

  1. Quality Grilling Utensils

Your grill brush is an important tool that you don't want to skimp out on.

What makes a great grill brush? You'll want a brush that has smaller bristles and multiple heads. Also, a long handle so that you can scrub while the gratings are still hot, and one that's durable. You'll also want to make sure that whatever brush you pick up is a good match for the size and type of grill that you're using.

  1. Food and Grease Excess Residue

It's never a bad idea to crank the grill up to its highest setting after you're done the cooking so that it can burn off excess grime. This can make your post-barbecue spot clean easier.

  1. Outside Grill Surfaces Clean

Ensuring that the exterior of the grill is spotless is as important as maintaining the cleanliness of its interior. It's an easier job than the inside, though; all you'll need is soapy water and a rag

Dishwasher fire

3/7/2017 (Permalink)

dishwasher fire

Fire Safety Awareness


A faulty dishwasher caught on fire in Redding, CA and the homeowner was alerted by her smoke detectors. Much of the time, it's the smoke that causes the most damage. The smoke damage in this case wasn't severe because the smoke detectors alerted the homeowner who was able shut off the power to the dishwasher and smother it with towels. There was very little material damaged by the fire.



The best tip we can give customers is to make sure they don't run their appliances when they go to bed or if they are not home or in he house while running them.

We also suggest that consumers check out the Consumer Product Safety Commission website to search their dishwasher and other appliances to be aware of hazardous appliances.
Keep a multipurpose fire extinguisher in your kitchen and visit the U.S. Fire Administration's website for more information on fire extinguishers.

The owner from this loss was so happy she said, "The SERVPRO team was fabulous! They were professional and accommodating with my needs. Can't say enough positives, wonderful experience."

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties was called in to clean up the aftermath! We have been here for 23 years, if you experience any type of loss, call us first, for a free inspection and then let your insurance company know you want to use SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties.

Understanding Fire – How a Home Fire Spreads

8/4/2016 (Permalink)

In order to protect yourself from a home fire, it’s essential to understand how a fire acts. When a fire occurs in your home, you only have a few minutes to escape. There is no time to collect valuables once you hear the smoke alarm, especially at night. Here are some fundamental facts about home fires that show how dangerous they are and why you have precious little time to get away:

  • Fires can get out of control very quickly - usually in less than 30 seconds from the event that caused them. In homes and properties with synthetic furniture and furnishings, fires can spread even faster due to the flammable nature of the materials.
  • After about a minute, smoke begins to fill the room. At first, it rises to the ceiling, then it descends, until the room is entirely filled with smoke. Fire produces black smoke that makes it very difficult to see anything, not to mention that it contains toxic chemicals that cause drowsiness and asphyxiation.
  • The temperature in the room increases steadily. In fact, heat and smoke cause more deaths than the actual flames. After about 3 minutes, the temperature can reach 600 degrees at eye level, and breathing this hot air will severely burn your lungs. This is also the point where fire spreads to other rooms.
  • After about 4 to 5 minutes, the heat in the room of origin increases so much that it causes everything to ignite. This is called a flashover. Flames and smoke can be visible from the outside, through windows or other openings. Rescuing victims may not be possible at this point.
  • Fire reaches its fully developed stage when it has spread over all available fuel (furniture, walls, etc.) and the temperature has reached its peak. 

To be prepared for a fire, install smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and a fire sprinkler system in your home. Making a fire escape plan is also extremely important.  In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your Redding home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. This type of damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Need Smoke or Fire Damage Cleanup Services? Call Us Today – (530) 222-0200

Garage Fire Safety Tips

8/4/2016 (Permalink)

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, residential garage fires tend to spread faster than fires which start in another area of a home. Consequently, garage fires, which occur more often in January, December and July, cause more injuries and financial losses (per fire) than other home fires. Check out these tips to learn how to prevent fires in your garage:

  • Store flammable substances, such as paints, gasoline, oil or varnishes outside the garage and home, preferably in a shed.
  • Always keep items which can catch fire on high shelves and away from appliances that produce heat.
  • Since electrical malfunction is the leading cause of garage fires, use electrical appliances or tools carefully.
  • Plug only one charging appliance or major appliance at a time in a socket.
  • When powering or charging appliances, avoid using extension cords.
  • Install a heat alarm (rather than a smoke alarm) that will sound when it detects dangerously high temperatures. Make sure the alarm is interconnected with the rest of the alarms in your home. Check the alarms once a month and replace batteries once a year.
  • Don’t fill portable gasoline containers inside your garage. Instead, choose an outdoor area and pour gasoline carefully to avoid spills.
  • If you spill gasoline, soak it up with sawdust or cat litter. Throw the sawdust or cat litter in a safe container after the spill is fully absorbed.
  • Avoid using carpets, rugs, non-fire-retardant tarps or cardboard on the garage floor, as these may absorb flammable liquids and cause a fire.

Construction-related fire-proofing tips to consider:

  • Install a ½-inch gypsum board wall if the wall connects your garage to your home.
  • Install a 1-inch Type X gypsum board ceiling if there is living space above the garage.
  • Install a self-closing and self-latching 20-minute fire-rated door that connects your garage to your house.
  • Install an attic hatch cover if there is attic access from the garage.

For extra electrical safety, your garage should be equipped with GFCIs (ground-fault circuit-interrupters). If you’re doing outdoor work using electrical tools, follow these outdoor electrical safety tips

In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your Redding home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. This type of damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Need Smoke or Fire Damage Cleanup Services? Call Us Today – (530) 222-0200

5 Unexpected Home Fire Causes

8/4/2016 (Permalink)

While most home fires are cooking-related, there are many other ways a fire can start in a home. Objects that may seem completely harmless can sometimes start a fire under the right circumstances. Here are 5 uncommon causes of home fires you should be aware of:

1. Glass objects

We all know that light passing through magnifying glass can start a fire if pointed to a flammable object. However, in very rare cases, fires can start due to light passing through an empty jar, crystal ball or another glass object. When the light is refracted by these objects towards curtains, paper or another flammable source, a fire can start if given enough time. To avoid this, make sure to keep glassware in a shaded area.

2. Dishwashers

While household appliances are known to start fires, not many people know that dishwashers can also pose a fire risk, although small. A fire can be caused by a faulty dishwasher when water drips onto the machine’s internal wires. Have your dishwasher maintained and repaired once a year to prevent any fire hazards, as well as water leaks.

3. 9-Volt Batteries

Although very rare, fires can start due to improper disposal of 9-volt batteries. When the battery’s posts come in contact with a piece of metal, and that piece of metal touches a flammable object (such as a piece of paper), a fire can start. Store used 9-volt batteries away from metals and place a piece of tape on top of its posts. Visit your city or county website to find out where to safely dispose of batteries for recycling.

4. Laptops

Laptops produce quite a bit of heat when operating for several hours. If you put your laptop directly on a bed, couch or another soft surface, there is a slight chance that the heat produced by the laptop will start a fire. Prevent laptop fires by using laptop stands and cooling pads or by placing them on a non-flammable surface.

5. Dust

It may sound strange, but the dust bunnies under beds and furniture can be a fire hazard if they are close to wall sockets, heating appliances or electronics. Dust bunnies can ignite if sparks fly towards them, possibly spreading fire towards nearby furniture. Vacuum under beds and furniture regularly to eliminate this small fire hazard.

In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your Redding home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. This type of damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Need Smoke or Fire Damage Cleanup Services?Call Us Today – (530) 222-0200

Appliance Fire Safety Tips

8/4/2016 (Permalink)

Household appliances make our lives easier on a daily basis. However, every machine that operates on electricity or gas presents safety risks and should be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Below are essential appliance fire safety tips to help you prevent disasters in your home:

General Safety Tips

-  Keep appliances at a safe distance from wet areas, especially in the bathroom, kitchen, garage or basement.

-  Keep potentially flammable items, such as furniture, clothes or curtains, away from heaters or appliances that produce heat.

-  If an appliance or lamp sputters, produces a spark or gives you a shock when running, have it repaired as soon as possible.

-  Never force an appliance with a three-prong plug into a two-prong outlet or extension cord.

-  Never run cords under carpets or rugs, as this can damage the cords and cause a fire.

-  Check the wires of appliances regularly. Replace or repair frayed, damaged wires.

-  Don’t plug too many plugs into an electrical outlet; plug only one wattage appliance into an outlet at a time.

-  Unplug all small electrical appliances, such as irons, toasters, hair dryers, and shavers when not in use.

- Install smoke alarms on every level of your home. Test the alarms once a month and replace batteries each year.

Clothes Dryer

-  Properly ground clothes dryers properly and keep the area around your dryer clear of things that can burn.

-  Always use a lint filter when operating a dryer and clean the lint from the filter before or after each use.

-  Vent dryers directly outside using rigid or flexible metal venting materials. Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted.

-  Clean out the lint from the vent pipe once a year or more often if clothes are taking longer than normal to dry.

-  More clothes dryer safety tips are available here.

Electric or Gas Ranges

-  Remove grease or other debris from the burner, stove top or oven. Never leave combustible items near ovens.

-  Always supervise the range when cooking and turn it off when you have to leave the kitchen.

-  Roll up your sleeves, tie back long hair and wear non-slip when cooking.

-  Before using the range, make sure it doesn’t smell of gas inside the oven or near it.

-  Find out more oven range safety tips here and kitchen safety rules here.

Dishwasher

-  Make sure the dishwasher is always supervised when operating. Don’t use the dishwasher when going to bed or before leaving the house.

-  Avoid using extension cords as a permanent solution to power the dishwasher. Plug your dishwasher into a grounded wall socket.

-  Check the plastic components that release the detergent on the interior of the door. If damaged, these components can cause water to leak over the machine’s internal wires, resulting in a fire.

-  More dishwasher safety tips can be found here.

Electric Heater

-  Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from flammable materials like paper, trash bins, furniture, drapes or carpet.

-  Place heaters on a stable, horizontal surface (preferably on the floor) where it can’t be knocked over easily.

-  Here you can find more electric heater safety guidelines.

Microwave Oven

-  Never use aluminum foil or metal in a microwave oven, as metal can start a fire. Use only microwave-safe food containers or dishes.

-  Microwaves are not designed for drying or sterilizing baby bottles, clothes or blankets.

-  Clean the microwave, including the outer edge, from food debris, grease or stains regularly.

In case you’ve experienced a home fire, take a look at this article to learn how deal with the fire damage.  In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your Redding home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. This type of damage can be especially upsetting and destructive for your family to process. You may feel stressed, confused, and vulnerable, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with care.

SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

 Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Need Smoke or Fire Damage Cleanup Services? Call Us Today – (530) 222-0200