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