Swift Action for a Safer Recovery

8/30/2023 (Permalink)

Fire damaged apartment from kitchen fire.

Experiencing a fire, even without physical injuries to yourself or your loved ones, can be profoundly distressing. Witnessing the place you've built and cared for now marred by damage is both traumatic and heart-wrenching.

Undertaking the restoration of your home after fire damage is a critical undertaking. The fire might have compromised the structural integrity of your home, impacting its foundations and other crucial elements. Moreover, the combustion of various materials during the fire could have released a range of hazardous substances, such as heavy metals, methane, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide, which can pose serious health risks upon exposure.

Addressing the damage promptly is of paramount importance. Swift action minimizes the extent of consequences and streamlines the restoration process, ensuring a more seamless recovery.

If you need fire damage repair, storm damage cleanup or an odor cleaning company, call 818-650-4221 and contact the team at SERVPRO® today!

The Hazards of Smoke & Soot: Understanding the Risks

8/24/2023 (Permalink)

Trash from commercial fire cleanup.

When a fire ignites, not all materials burn completely, resulting in the formation of smoke and soot. These byproducts, encompassing solids, liquids, and gases, often comprise a range of harmful chemicals that pose health risks. Materials like plastics, foams, fabrics, carpets, wood products, synthetic textiles, wool, and even materials containing asbestos can become toxic when burned.

For effective fire restoration, it's imperative to entrust the task to professionals equipped with proper training, tools, and safety gear. During the process of fire restoration, individuals can be exposed to smoke and soot through inhalation, ingestion, and direct contact with the skin and eyes. Airborne soot particles are invisible, and once they enter the bloodstream, they can trigger a host of severe health complications.

Regrettably, the dangers linked to fire extend beyond the extinguished flames. The aftermath of fire damage can persist for years if not properly addressed. Effective ventilation strategies are vital for restoring and safeguarding indoor air quality post-fire, involving measures like HEPA filtration and adsorption (activated carbon) to maintain clean air. Relying solely on basic tools and equipment is insufficient. A comprehensive and secure fire restoration requires the application of professional tools, knowledge, and expertise.

Backyard Fire Pit Safety

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

Keep your fire pit far from any structures, brush, and trees.

It’s summertime, and there’s no better time for an outdoor barbecue and some s’mores by the fire pit. If not cared for properly, however, a relaxing night around the fire could turn into a disaster. Use these tips to help keep your summer nights fun!

Positioning

Keep your fire pit far from any structures, brush, and trees. Ensure no branches or leaves hang anywhere above the fire pit so smoke has a clear escape path into the air. Keep the fire on a non-flammable surface such as concrete or sand. Avoid setting up the fire on grass, and never create a fire on a wooden deck.

Preparation

Keep any flammable materials away from the fire. Staying approximately 10-20 feet from surrounding vegetation and brush will help to prevent flames from jumping or spreading. Dig the pit about six inches deep in the center with a two-foot diameter to contain all embers and flames.

Extinguishing

Always use the proper method to extinguish the flames of a fire as described by your local fire marshal/fire department. Water is usually a primary source to extinguish fire. In addition, a shovel can help with putting out the remaining flames and suffocating the fire. Once the flames are drowned with water, stir with shovel until no flames remain. Ashes remain hot for several days, so ensure they are properly disposed and left to cool. Never dispose of ashes in a compost pile or flammable material.

Stay safe this summer and enjoy the outdoors! If you ever have a fire at your home, Call SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village at (818) 508-7282 to help with the restoration, we are 24/7/365.

Returning Home: How to Remove the Smoky Smell from your Property

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

Deodorizing and sanitizing a home or business after a fire is not an easy task, and you should not have to be forced to do it yourself.

If you’ve ever been around a campfire or experienced an indoor fire, you’ll know exactly what that lingering smoky smell is like after the fire’s been put out. When you suffer from a home or business fire, it’s important to minimize as much of the remaining odor as possible before SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village arrives. These tips will be helpful in maintaining the healthiest living conditions as possible after a fire occurs.

Tip 1: If safe, open any windows to increase airflow and circulation. Additionally, keep doors open to allow air to flow through and out of the structure.

Tip 2: Replace air filters. Toxic smoke particles and soot can become trapped in air filters, which results in unhealthy air being released after a fire. Replace the filters to avoid the spread of the odor.

Tip 3: Deep clean the affected areas. Kitchen counters, curtains, windows and carpets are commons places for smoke particles to stick after a fire. Target these areas to remove the remaining odor from smoke damage.

SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village is the expert fire restoration team for you! Deodorizing and sanitizing a home or business after a fire is not an easy task, and you should not have to be forced to do it yourself. Here at SERVPRO®, we have a team of experienced professionals with advanced odor removal products and equipment that will take care of your fire-related needs. Let our team make your home or business look like the fire “Never even happened.” Call SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village at (818) 508-7282, we are 24/7/365.

Stay Safe from Fires in the Workplace

8/5/2022 (Permalink)

If a fire does occur in your business, call SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village to get the restoration process underway.

A fire is never fun. At the office or workplace, fires can cause danger to personnel in addition to property damage. Read these tips on basic fire prevention to stay as safe on the job as possible.

Steps of Prevention

• Ensure all staff is properly educated on fire prevention procedures, evacuation routes and fire hazards.
• Maintain a clean workspace to reduce the risk of fire.
• Be aware of potential combustible materials and flammable items.
• Keep a working fire extinguisher in the business and know its whereabouts.

General Safety

• Dispose of combustible or flammable materials in and around the workplace.
• Keep combustible materials in approved containers and away from other flammable items.
• Keep fire extinguisher in an accessible place not blocked by furniture or clutter.

Preventative Safety

• Keep fire equipment up to date, receive inspections on a regular basis.
• Have a working alarm system with both sound and lights.
• Be aware of local authority and fire department information for easy contact when necessary.
• Keep staff up to date on training, be aware of what’s going on.
• Work with SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village to create an emergency response plan for your business.

If a fire does occur in your business, call SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village to get the restoration process underway. We know a fire can be devastating, and that is why we take great care in restoring as many of your items as we can. No job is too big for SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village. Call today at (818) 508-7282, we are 24/7/365.

What is My First Step After a Business Fire?

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

Review the list of items damaged to determine what can be salvaged.

Call The Insurance Company

Your insurance company will need to know the full details of what occurred. Prepare yourself for the first call by collecting as much information as possible. Give the adjuster the extent of the water and fire damages. The following are important point to cover.

• Insurer’s damage documentation requirements
• Scheduling inspection of property with adjuster
• Proof of loss statement deadlines
• Request possibility of extensions and approvals

Don’t Throw Away Your Things

Items can be saved, and you will want to review the list of items damaged to determine what can be salvaged. Leave everything in its place so when the adjuster / inspector arrives onsite they can see the full extent of the damages incurred.

Our experienced franchise professionals frequently save business items after a fire. Special techniques developed in the field can salvage nearly any item from paper records to electronics. When speaking with your designated claims manager and project manager, the entire process is discussed and documented from start to finish.

Call a Remediation and Restoration Professional

We regularly work directly with your insurance and keep you in the know on the details. Call SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village at (818) 508-7282, we are 24/7/365.

Facts and Falsehoods about Fire Suppression Systems

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

Acting fast when a fire breaks out in your business will be the difference in mitigating your losses.

Fire suppression systems are typically the first response to any fire in a commercial building. Acting fast when a fire breaks out in your business will be the difference in mitigating your losses. It is important to know what is true or false when it comes to your fire sprinkler system.

False: Water Damage from Fire Sprinklers is More Costly Than Fire Damage

Fact: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) advise sprinkler systems as more cost effective than damaging comparatively to other fire fighting efforts. Since they can keep the fire contained within a single room rather than allowing the fire and smoke to spread throughout the building.

False: Every Fire Sprinkler Will Trigger

Fact: First, confirm with the manufacturer and/or installer what the activation and release methods are for your buildings commercial fire suppression system. Typically, when one sprinkler in your commercial sprinkler system goes off, the others do not. Fire sprinklers act individually and should only release when high levels of heat are detected.

False: Fire Sprinklers are Overly Sensitive

Fact: Fire sprinklers only activate when high heat is sensed. Meaning, employees burning their lunch in the break room will not set off the fire alarm. Protection and safety are most important when keeping operations running.

When the unexpected happens, you are not alone. SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village at (818) 508-7282 is 24/7/365 and committed to helping you every step of the way. Use our fire, smoke, and water damage clean up services to return your business to its preloss condition.

4 Tips for Business Owners After Fire

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Any delay in seeking professional help could result in damages extending past where they could have been mitigated.

When fire damage does occur, reach out to SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village to assess your fire damage restoration needs. Any delay in seeking professional help could result in damages extending past where they could have been mitigated. Smoke, a byproduct of fire, is acidic. It’s corrosive elements are capable of corroding away nearly any surface. Smoke and soot damage should be addressed immediately by experienced fire restoration professionals.

1. Call SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village – you need professional services, so before moving to the next step, call the experts.
2. Move children and pets to a smoke-free area. Move them to a relative's or friend's home until the fire cleanup or restoration is complete.
3. Open all the windows to get air circulating to help alleviate the smoke smell.
4. Inventory your belongings. Create a list of your business’s or home’s contents, this will assist when filing a claim with your insurance. Taking pictures of the affected items or damage is also a good idea. You will need these for insurance claims purposes, and for your own records.

How Long Does Residual Smoke Damage Last?

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

Aftermath of fire in utility room.

Ridding a property of smoke damage is a difficult task unto itself. One of the worst things a home or business can experience is a fire as it not only destroys household items but can also affect structural materials as well. The damage can sometimes extend after the fire has been extinguished in the form of water damage due to the fire-fighting efforts.

Residual smoke odor can linger within your business or home until affectively treated after the flames have been put out. If a fire affects your home or are, such as is the case with when a wildfire occurs, take the necessary steps to rid yourself of the smoke smell effectively and fast.

It can be quite difficult to remove the odor of smoke from your property. When the smoke first infiltrates your home, the small imperceptible particulates can stick to all household surfaces and even become embedded in porous materials – carpeting, furniture, fabrics, books, and even paint. Removing them requires a lot of effort and, often, specialized cleaning equipment. SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village have the expertise and industry leading equipment (air scrubbers, nano filters, ozone generators, hydroxl technology, etc.) that is required to effectively deodorize after a fire loss. We use safe and efficient odor removal techniques to make it "Like it never even happened."

Commercial Fire Cleanup Steps

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

pressure washing foundation

1. Inspection

Call your local SERVPRO to come and inspect the damage to your property. Our highly trained Project Managers and Technicians thoroughly inspect your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. Hiring a professional restoration company will allow for a complete comprehensive review of the property damage. They will also record and document all damage for your insurer if needed.

2. Safety Work

Property damage can continue even after the fire has been extinguished. The priority should be to prevent further damage to your property. A restoration company will look at what needs to be protected and take the proper steps to do so. With a lot of your windows, walls, and roof potentially damaged, the restoration company will look at what needs boarding up or if your roof needs tarping. This helps to protect your property from further damage.

3. Water Removal

Water removal post firefighting efforts is top of the list. Hiring a professional team to investigate the possibility of leaks or places where mold can develop is very important.

4. Smoke and Soot Removal

Odors and staining left behind from smoke or soot damage go beyond surface level. With SERVPRO’s specialized techniques, the next step for SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village is to remove the smoke and soot left behind on the ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

5. Cleanup

There are a variety of cleaning techniques that can be used to clean up these damaged items and structures, along with equipment such as industrial air scrubbers and foggers that will help remove smoke odors.

Reduce Structural Risk Against Wildfires

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

No symbol over wildfire symbol.

Readyforwildfire.org advises that a large step in reducing wildfire risk to your property is creating defensible areas or zones. These are described as (3) zones with varying defined distances and tasks to perform within each Zone: 0, 1, and 2.

Zone 0: (0) to (5) feet

The Immediate Zone is the area closest to the structure and the most vulnerable. Remove any combustible material surrounding your property. This can be dry grass or brush, outdoor furniture, trashcans etc. Clean any fallen leaves and needles regularly and repeatedly during the fire season.

Zone 1: (5) to (30) feet

The Intermediate Zone can include other buildings, structures, trees, etc. Keep it “lean, clean, and green.” Remove dead plants, dry leaves, pine needles, etc. from your rain gutters, roof, and yard. Regularly trim your trees to a minimum of 10 feet from other trees. Branches that hand over your roof should be removed and any dead branches should be kept 10 feet away from your chimney. Move any woodpiles at least 30 feet from any structure.

Zone 2: (30) to (100) feet

The Extended Zone includes space more than 100 feet away if defined otherwise by vegetation conditions, steep slopes, and or your local fire department. Cut down/back annual grass to the regulatory size in your area.

Top Five Reasons Fire Suppression Systems Fail

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage caused by inactive fire suppression system.

Fire sprinkler suppression systems are common in commercial and becoming more common in residential. Top five failures for fire suppressions systems:

1. Improper maintenance – most common: faulty pumps, failing suppression material supply.
2. Typically, in hotels or apartments tenants hang a coat hanger on the sprinkler head.
3. Influx in pressure to fire sprinkler system.
4. Crack or break in the plumbing lines.
5. System shut-off. This is the cause for nearly 2/3 of fire suppression system failures.

It is important to regularly get your Fire Suppression System checked. Four times annually is the recommended amount that it should be inspected.

Regardless of the fire damage source in your home or business, SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is there to support and educate you during your loss. Fire remediation and repair pose many questions and concerns depending on the nature of building materials burned. Our senior project managers are well trained in the science of combustion byproduct cleanup. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village claims managers will be designated to be your liaison between you, our onsite team, and the insurance carrier to make sure your home is restored to its preloss condition with all appropriate post clearance testing, city inspections, and most importantly our customer satisfaction form signed by you our client when we hand back the keys to your home.

Are You On Social Media? Let's Connect!

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Do you already follow us on our social media pages?  If you have not done so already, come find us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram!  We aim to provide great content by giving everyday helpful tips, showcasing our work, and keeping it fun overall. 

Some of our posts include the science of identifying and eliminating odors can be tricky, but as professionals in deodorization, we can take care of it.  Some other examples of what we post are many emergency preparedness tips and showing before and after photos.

We also like to share the jobs we have completed in cities such as Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Downtown, Bakersfield, Sylmar, and just all over the West Coast region. 

What would you like to see us share on our pages? Let us know! We would love to connect and hear from you. 

Here are the links to our pages:

Facebook: click here

Instagram: click here

Twitter: click here

LinkedIn: click here

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know 50% of businesses may never reopen after suffering a disaster? According to the latest research, half of the time when businesses are affected by a fire or water damage, they end up having to close down. For the businesses that do survive, the majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.  By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Emergency Ready Program, ERP for short, allows SERVPRO to help commercial properties to be ready in case of a water or fire emergency. By entering detailed information before an event happens, you can minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. 

There's also useful information such as how to turn off electrical panels, main water, gas, etc. to stop any more damage from happening. It's at no cost of your company, as well as a concise profile document, and a guide to help get back into your building after a disaster. This approach is a great investment of your time and is designed specifically with the customer in mind. If you or someone you know would love to have an ERP done, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO today! 

How to Reduce Fire Damage

3/21/2021 (Permalink)

Reducing fire damage is one of the first considerations after a fire in a home or a fire in a business. Commercial fire damage can greatly affect the ability of a business to continue operations. In order to recover as much value as possible from a property that has undergone fire damage, smoke damage, and soot damage, a restoration company like SERVPRO should be contacted immediately after the premises are secure. The fire cleanup team can assist in evaluating the damage to the property and listing the items that are present.

They can also perform fire damage restoration and offer an estimate onsite. The fire cleanup will also involve drying up all the water that firefighters may flood the premises with in order to put out the fire. This water can cause extensive water damage causing the growth of mold. A certified technician can dry out the property and prevent mold growth using industrial equipment that sometimes includes a water extractor, a dehumidifier, and an air current mover.

All surfaces are sanitized and cleaned after all the soot damage and smoke damage has been reversed. The fire clean-up team will also instruct property owners how to prevent commercial fire damage in the future. Any residual smoke smell will be ventilated until gone. If the smoke smell continues, chemical solutions like an ozone treatment or thermal fogging are also options depending on the needs of the property owner. Additional treatments may be needed weeks or even months after the initial incident.

Fire cleanup can be extremely daunting for someone who is shocked by a fire whether in a home or a fire at their business. However, fire damage restoration is normal for a fire cleanup specialist, even in the aftermath of commercial fire damage. A specialist who has the experience and the expertise to guide a property owner will ensure that fire damage is minimized as much as possible. 

Getting Rid of Smoke Damage in Your Home

12/31/2020 (Permalink)

Any fire restoration professional can tell you when it comes to fire damage, the fire is the easy part. There’s really only one way to get rid of most damage to building materials charred by fire: remove them. Getting rid of the sight of smoke damage is a fairly easy thing to do. You can clean it, paint over it or remove the items. Odor on the other hand is invisible and even more bothersome and must be dealt with immediately. SERVPRO uses scientific methods and quick measures to remove smoke damage after a fire.

1. Get rid of the source of smoke odor

2. Seal salvageable surfaces

3. Clean everything left behind

Having your home professionally cleaned after soot, smoke, and fire damage can impact your health. The hidden damage from smoke can be hard to detect, you should always call SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village after experiencing a fire loss of any size. 

Fire and Smoke Restoration Experts

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Whether you suffered from a local wildfire or had an accidental fire in your kitchen… we will make your property look like new again. We clean every affected surface, furniture, etc. as well as remove soot, ash and smoke. You can have peace of mind with our fire & smoke reconstruction services to renovate your home to make it like new again and we will help you and address all aspects of the project. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village provides all of the services to return your home to its original state. If your home or business has been affected by fire and/or smoke damage, give us a call immediately! Our crews are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and no fire loss is too large or too small for our office to handle. 

What Do Fire Restoration Companies Do?

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

Sometimes it is confusing understanding exactly the purpose of a fire restoration company. We are not the fire department and we cannot put out your fire, however we can clean up the aftermath. The job of a restoration company is to clean up the mess and to preserve and protect the home and its contents so that further damage will not occur. Our crews of professional technicians will enter your home and immediately begin logging your items and begin cleaning your home from soot and smoke damage. 

The fire damage restoration process can reverse the damage caused by a fire in your home or business premises so that you are able to get back to normal living as quickly as possible. If you experience a fire loss always call SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village immediately. 

Get Your Home Back to Normal

10/24/2020 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke restoration experts, that's SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village. While water damage makes up for most of our work, our franchise location prides ourselves in also effectively handling fire/soot/smoke damage as well. 

After a fire, its best to assess your property for visual and hidden damages. In the case of a fire or smoke emergency, SERVPRO provides all of the services to return your home to its original state. Whether you suffered from a local wildfire or had an accidental fire in your kitchen, SERVPRO will make your home new again. We clean every affected surface, content, and furniture and remove soot, ash, and smoke. You can have peace of mind with our restoration services to restore your home to make it better than new.

Warning Signs Not To Ignore

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that faulty electrical wiring and overloaded systems are the most common cause of electrical fires?

Overloaded systems tend to have strong electrical currents running through the wires, causing them to heat up in the process. The situation can become a real danger when the system heats up enough for ignition to happen, causing a fire in the process. Don’t ignore the most common electrical malfunctions that could cause an electrical fire. Taking the precautionary steps to protect your home from fire damage can save you from a massive headache in the long run. 

If you experience an electrical fire in your home, your best chance at fully restoring your home and belongings requires a quick call to the professionals at SERVPRO. 

City of Los Angeles Certificate of Appreciation

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

We are proud to be serving ur community!

It was such an honor to receive a Certificate of Appreciation for the work our SERVPRO has done for the City of Los Angeles, California. Absolutely privileged to have Councilman David Ryu to tour our facility.  We were also happy to be able to help and donate much-needed gloves, masks, and supplies to our front line medical workers that are fighting this pandemic.

We are professionals that are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Fitness Equipment
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment

Here Are 10 Tips To Avoid Water Damage To Your Home

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

In Southern California, there are ways to protect yourself against costly water losses and claims. Follow these 10 easy tips to keep your home safe and well-maintained:

On The Outside:

1. Maintain Trees and Vegetation

Thriving shrubs can be a beautiful thing – except when their roots wrap around your pipes and break them.  That’s why it’s important to minimize landscaping near utility pipes or, if necessary, remove trees and shrubs that have become too big.

2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Clean your gutters at least twice a year to avoid blockage and ice dams. Standing water can cause damage to your gutters and roof, and unmanaged overflow may create puddles that could damage your foundation. Don’t forget to clean downspouts to ensure water can flow through, and secure downspouts so that they point away from the home.

3. Disconnect Hoses

Standing water in a hose may freeze back into the pipe and create an ice block that may bust your pipes and create damage to walls, floor, and foundation.

On the Inside:

4. Know your Water Main

Know the location of your water main and shut it off if you leave for an extended amount of time.  If no water goes into the house, chances are no faucet drips can wreak havoc on your home.

5. Check Appliances Regularly

Check and maintain your appliances regularly for leaks according to the manufacturer’s directions.

6. Investigate Leaks Right Away and Fix Promptly

If you opt to ignore moisture damage or postpone making the necessary repairs be prepared to experience mold, mildew, dry rot, or even structural damage to your home.  Keep in mind that homeowner’s insurance provides coverage for damage that is sudden and accidental.  Damage that results from a lack of maintenance is not covered on a standard homeowner’s insurance policy.

7. Upgrade Washing Machine Hoses

Old, brittle, or leaky washing machine hoses are among the most frequent causes of water loss for homeowners.  Replace yours regularly to avoid a mighty mess and expensive damage.

8. Install Water Detection Devices

A water detector is a small electronic device that sounds an alarm when its sensor is in contact with moisture.  Its main benefit is that it detects low moisture levels or slow leaks that often go unnoticed.  Install it near water heaters, sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers, and toilets to prevent extensive damage and mold growth.

9. Check Your Water Pressure

If the water pressure to your home is set too high, pipes and hoses may fail under the pressure. Buy a water pressure gauge at a local hardware store, attach it to an outside faucet, and turn the faucet to full force. The gauge will give you a reading of the home’s water pressure. Typical residential water systems are designed for water pressure of 40 – 70 psi. If your home’s water pressure exceeds 100psi, install a pressure regulator (which is available at hardware stores as well.)

10. Do Monitor Your Water Bill

Sometimes, the only way you know that water is leaking is by taking a closer look at your water bill.  If your usage jumps significantly from one month to the next without explanation, put your “water detective’s hat” on.  Is there a leak in your crawlspace? Or, is it a pipe in your front yard? Don’t leave mystery leaks unattended!  

Call us if you have any questions!  We are here to help!

Keeping our workplace safe!

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

Call us to disinfect and sanitize your office! SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village professionals is uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC.

We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs on a daily basis.

Here are other ways to keep the workplace safe:

Practice good hygiene. 

Stop handshakes and use non-contact greeting methods.

Clean hands at the door and schedule regular hand washing reminders.

Disinfect surfaces like doorknobs, tables, and desks regularly.

Avoid touching your face and cover your coughs and sneezes.

Increase ventilation by opening windows or adjusting air conditioning.

Limit meetings and non-essential travels

Use video conferencing instead of face-to-face meetings.

When video calls are not possible, hold your meetings in well-ventilated rooms and spaces.

Suspend all non-essential travels and trips.

Stay home if you are feeling sick. Also, consider staying at home if you have a sick member at home. 

Take care of your emotional and mental well-being is just as important as the others on the list. Let us take care of all your deep cleaning and disinfecting your workplace to put your mind at ease. 

Who To Call For Your Worst Cleanup?

3/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here To Help!

It might be an embarrassing phone call to make but rest assured that SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is prepared to handle it all, and we mean all. Biohazard cleanup can be challenging work that requires technicians to handle potentially hazardous materials and proper handling of the viruses, and a crime or trauma scene, which is crucial to the safety of everyone involved. Biohazard cleaning is NOT the same as a standard cleaning company or janitorial service; it involves cleaning, disinfecting, and deodorizing the affected area(s). If you’re facing the task of cleaning up a biohazard, don’t do it alone. Leave it to the professionals and not the NCIS pros you see on TV. Biohazards can be extremely serious and if not handled properly can be an even bigger issue in the long run. 

Home Sprinkler System

10/19/2019 (Permalink)

They're almost invisible and blend in with the decor of your home.

We’ve seen them in commercial and industrial properties and public buildings, but did you know you can get fire sprinklers installed inside your home? 85% of all US fire deaths occur inside the home and installing an automatic fire sprinkler could potentially save your life and your home. There is an 80% reduction in the risk of occupants dying in a fire when fire sprinklers are present. Additionally, there is a 70% reduction in direct property damage per fire. On top of reducing fire damages, fire sprinklers are cost effective. A report commissioned by the Fire Protection Research Foundation places the average national cost of installing sprinklers in new homes at $1.35 per sprinklered square foot, or about one percent of the total construction cost. Sometimes smoke alarms just don't cut it and if you want extra protection against fires home sprinkler systems are not a bad investment. If you or someone you love suffers from a fire loss be sure to call us at SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village

Prepared for Any Size Disaster

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

Don't hesitate to call, we have the tools and man power to get you back into business.

While everything is going well, and no disaster is on the horizon, take proactive steps to manage the potential risk disaster could bring your commercial property. Take time to establish a working relationship with a commercial emergency restoration management company, such as SERVPRO, that you may need in the future. Here are some things to look for when you are shopping around.

• Are they a 24 hour emergency response team? If 25/8 was a thing SERVPRO is on it, never be afraid to call us because we will be there.
• Do they work with your insurance? Of course, we want you to be covered so we will do our part to help you and communicate with all parties involved.
• Are they safe and reliable? Absolutely, we hold team meetings every morning to go over a new or refresher topic of safety to keep everyone reliable and aware.
• Do they have expert technicians and the experience? All of our technicians and office staff are IICRC trained and have continual training to ensure they are up to date and aware of all possible losses.
• Will they update you and keep your file safe? Yes, we promise daily updates to both you and your insurance company so you will never be in the dark.

These are all great questions to have and to ask. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village can guarantee that you will be satisfied with us as your primary commercial disaster response team because we know we can make it “Like it never even happened.”

Six Classes of Fire Damage

9/8/2019 (Permalink)

Fires are some of the most devastating forces of nature a home, household, or business can face. Here are some of the most common fires you may see.

Class A Fire Damage

The result of a fire involving flammable solids, including, various plastics, paper, rubber, wood, and cloth.

Class B Fire Damage

Consists of damage as a result of flammable liquids or solids that can become liquefied. This includes gasoline and various forms of petrol, oil, various waxes and plastics, and paint. However, fires caused by cooking oils and fats are excluded from this list.

Class C Fire Damage

Involves flammable gasses, such as hydrogen, propane, butane, and natural gas.

Class D Fire Damage

Consists of fires caused by combustible metals. This may include magnesium, potassium, and sodium.

Class E Fire Damage

Results from the factors found in both Class A and Class B fire damage. The difference being, this particular class introduces electrical elements onto the list. This makes fighting the fire and the resulting damage vary from that in Class A and B.

Class F Fire Damage

A fire that results from the cooking of oils and fats. These fires are significantly hotter and pose more severe damage than those found in Class B.

If you suffer from a fire loss always call both the fire department and SERVPRO.

Proper Fire Extinguisher Clean Up

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

95 percent of fires can be successfully quenched if extinguishers are deployed quickly after ignition. But once the fire is out and the household calms, what’s the best way to clean up the messy aftermath? There are 3 different types of fire extinguishers; A is ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth; B is flammable liquids, such as gasoline or cooking oil; and C is live electricity. The label also discloses the “ingredients” inside the canister that fight the fire. Read the label to determine what that powdery substance is.

Sodium bicarbonate and potassium bicarbonate: Vacuum residue thoroughly, making several passes over affected areas to remove all visible residue. Apply hot water mixed with a little vinegar, which neutralizes the pH of the powder. Allow to sit for a few minutes and rinse with warm water.

Silicone types: Vacuum residue thoroughly, making several passes to remove all visible residue. Spray the area with rubbing alcohol to break down the silicone. Allow the solution to penetrate for several minutes then rinse with warm water.

Monoammonium phosphate: Do not vacuum residue left by monoammonium phosphate. This residue must be cleaned by hand without delay; if it remains in contact with sensitive electronics and other equipment it can cause further damage. Begin by wiping the residue away with a clean cloth. On surfaces that can be wet-washed, clean with a mixture of warm water and baking soda. Thoroughly dry and sanitize the area as needed.

By knowing this information you will only help yourself and your home from further damages.

#1 in Fire Damage Restoration

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

It's never fun to deal with but when it happens we will be there.

When you simply google "fire damage restoration" lots of information pops up and it seems overwhelming, especially if you have never been placed in a situation like this before. It can be an absolute nightmare if you don't deal with professionals and you should always do your due diligence check first. With SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village, you'll never have to worry about what other restoration companies are doing, as a franchise, we are held to an industry standard that holds true for the entire company and we pride ourselves in being #1 not only in the nation but in the Los Angeles County. All of our technicians are IICRC certified and have continuous training, our office staff is available to you 24/7 and we are known to get you back into your property as timely as possible. If you ever suffer fire damage you should always call SERVPRO. 

Candle Safety Tips

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

There is something calming about candles. They look pretty and enhance the ambiance in a room, they give off a fragrant smell that can be so luring, but they can also be the cause to a house fire. December has been noted as the peak month of candle fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 3 out of every 5 candle fires started when they were placed to something that can burn, such as furniture, bedding, or decorations.  Review the tips below to prevent any house fires this holiday season:

• Blow out candles before leaving a room or going to bed
• Keep candles one foot (30 centimeters) away from anything that can burn
• Use a sturdy candle holder, that will not tip over easily
• Put candle holders and a sturdy and uncluttered surface
• Light candles carefully, keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame
• Do not let the candle burn all the way to the bottom; put it out before it gets too close to the container or holder
• You should not light a candle if oxygen is used in the home
• During a power outage, use a flashlight or battery-operated lighting instead of a candle

Although candles can add to the decor in the room, however, they can also add danger. Remember candles are an open flame which means they can easily ignite. Create an environment that is safe for you during this holiday season, use alternatives to prevent any candle fires in homes like using flameless candles. As always, remember SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is here to help!

What Sets Smart Smoke Detectors Apart?

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Protect your Studio City, CA home with a smart smoke detector

Smart smoke detectors are a relatively new technology that can send push notifications to smartphones and may be controlled remotely. Find out how a next-generation smoke alarm can protect your home.

Smart Alarms Types

There are three types of smart fire safety devices:

• Smart batteries
• Smart detectors
• Listeners

Smart batteries can be used in standard battery-powered smoke detectors or as backups in hardwired units. Smart detectors may cover more square-footage than standard alarms and can be controlled remotely. Listeners send alerts when any alarm is triggered.

Technological Differences

A smart battery is an affordable way to monitor your home while you are out. This technology functions like a nine-volt battery but has Wi-Fi connectivity to send notifications. You can silence battery-powered alarms remotely, but this function does not work for hardwired alarms with smart battery backups. 

A smart smoke alarm also sends notifications, can be remotely controlled, and may be capable of monitoring more than one floor of your home. Some devices alert users to elevated carbon monoxide levels. Listeners send notifications whenever an alarm sounds in your home, though these devices are not capable of silencing alarms.

Smart Alarms Effectiveness

A single smart alarm may monitor an entire floor of your home, or more. If your home is spacious, you may want to just install a listener to notify you of any alarms.

Smart Detector Costs

Smart fire safety solutions are available in a wide price range:

• The initial smart battery unit retails for about $35 with $15 replacements once or twice a year
• Smart detectors start around $100
• Listeners range from $50 to $100

Consider a smart smoke alarm or smoke detector device to receive timely push notifications about alarms. All of these devices can increase overall safety at your residence in Studio City, CA. If a fire results in damage, rely on the expertise of damage restoration professionals. 

Fire Damage? Here's some things to avoid doing before we arrive!

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

When faced with fire and smoke damage, we're Here to Help®.

If you experience fire or smoke damage in your home, here are some things that you should NOT do while waiting for your remediation team to arrive.

Don't:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water (they may be contaminated).
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create a secondary damage.
• Send garments to dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village Wildfire Damage Event

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

As many as 90 percent of wildland fires in the United States are caused by people, according to the U.S. Department of Interior. Some human-caused fires result from campfires left unattended, the burning of debris, negligently discarded cigarettes and intentional acts of arson. The remaining 10 percent are started by lightning or lava. 

According to Verisk’s 2017 Wildfire Risk Analysis 4.5 million U.S. homes were identified at high or extreme risk of wildfire, with more than 2 million in California alone. Losses from wildfires added up to $5.1 billion over the past 10 years.

Ready to help Here at SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village we are monitoring any wildfire situations closely. Our thoughts are with those neighbors who may be put in harms’ way during this event. In many cases, a wildfire can result in a total loss for a home or business, but in others it may be a partial loss, or can result in mild smoke damage. If your home or business is affected by a wildfire, SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is Here to Help®. 

About SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Studio City/Valley Village Smoke and Soot Cleanup

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Order in Your Studio City/Valley Village 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 Studio City/Valley Village will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (818)508-7282

Is Smoke Damage Really That Harmful?

6/14/2018 (Permalink)

Power washing helps to get rid of soot after a fire loss.

A question we hear at SERVPRO from clients quite often is: is smoke damage really that harmful? The answer is yes! Smoke damage can affect in more ways than one, while direct exposure to smoke is harmful to your respiratory system, it can also negatively affect your property's structure, sometimes in unexpected ways. Smoke from any type of fire is comprised of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and soot. Depending on what’s burning, many other harmful chemicals also enter the air, and are inhaled into your lungs or latch onto walls, furniture, clothing, ductwork, and other areas. While it may not seem like as big of a deal as the flames that burned personal property, smoke damage definitely should never be ignored! ALWAYS call SERVPRO for all your fire/smoke remediation needs. 

How Long Do Fire Extinguishers Last?

4/28/2018 (Permalink)

Before picture of an apartment balcony after being affected by a fire.

Fire extinguishers last between five and 15 years but they all ultimately expire and become ineffective, no matter what fire-fighting substance they contain. Household fire extinguishers—which are typically filled with dry chemicals (carbon dioxide or halon)—lose their charge over time. Those with compressed gas can leak contents slowly as their seals weaken, while those with ammonium phosphate will solidify over the years, rendering the entire device unusable. Read on to get a handle on the age and effectiveness of your fire extinguisher, plus tips on how to extend its life, get it serviced, and dispose of it correctly if necessary. Store a fire extinguisher in a clean, indoor location can help extend its life. Exposure to sun, UV radiation, wind, or rain can cause corrosion, rust, and deterioration. If the canister is dented or bruised, or if the tamper seal and pin are missing, there’s a possibility that it might explode unprompted. Examine the entire unit and if it’s not in good shape, properly dispose of it without delay.

How Technology is Changing Insurance

4/28/2018 (Permalink)

A home fire after a towel was left on the stove.

Picture this. You’ve just left your house to head to work, and you forgot to turn off the front oven burner after cooking your morning breakfast. There’s a dish towel sitting on the stove that’s just a little too close to the burner, and it catches on fire. Soon your whole kitchen is in flames. But because you have a traditional smoke detector, all it will do is make a lot of noise. Hopefully, your neighbor sees something is wrong and calls the fire department. However, if your home was equipped with a smart smoke detector, cameras and fire sprinklers, you could receive a phone or email alert notifying you of smoke in the house as soon as the dish towel started to flame up. You could check then out the issue on your cameras, remotely enable your smart sprinklers, and hopefully, contain the damage.  This is great news for homeowners because it’s going to keep damage from happening and their insurance low, SERVPRO works closely with both insurance agents/adjusters and homeowners and understands both of their needs. Technology will start to do the following: lessen risks with early warning, streamline the process of submitting a claim, decrease the number of claims, allow for a more personalized coverage. So, as long as we understand what our clients need we will forever be able to help them in a time of need. 

Dryer Fires

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

You may not think of your clothes dryer as a fire hazard, but these appliances account for tens of thousands of house fires each year. The problem most frequently occurs when lint and dust are allowed to build up. Over time, this can cause the dryer vent to become clogged with highly flammable materials, which easily combust when exposed to high temperatures. Your best option for dryer safety is to clean the lint trap each time before you use the dryer, and to inspect and clean the dryer vent area to remove lint buildup and other potential blockages. Regular cleaning can ultimately make all the difference in avoiding a house fire.

Quick statistics: 2,900 home clothes dryer fires are reported each year and cause an estimated 5 deaths, 100 injuries, and $35 million in property loss.

Fire Clean Up

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

Before picture shows all the soot damage the wind blew in.

After a massive fire blew through the Santa Clarita Valley SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village was reached out to for help. This golf course was one that fell victim to the strong fires but they were lucky to escape with little damage to their property. Our technicians came in a worked for a little over three weeks to clean both the inside and outside of the country club to ensure that all fire, soot, and smoke damage was gone from the property. This before picture shows just some of the mess left behind after all the fires were put out. The final product looked as if the golf course was going to be opened for the first time, the owner came back from an extended vacation and was thrilled with the outcome.

Who Should You Call For Your Fire Damage?

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a home after the sprinkler system went off.

No one ever plans for a water or fire damage in their homes, but if you were to ever experience one SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village should be your first call for mitigation and remediation. Having a fire in your home can be a life altering event and you want your property to be restored back to the way it was before the fire. When a fire occurs at your house or commercial property, you should take swift action to handle the cleanup and restoration left behind by the fire itself and the efforts of the fire department. At SERVPRO we value your home as if it were our own because we understand clients in their time of need. If you need more opinions on who to call ask friends/family, neighbors, or even your insurance agents they will be able to help you in this process.

Warehouse Fire Catches Neighbor On Fire

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

The burnt warehouse after the flames are subdued

This warehouse fire happened late one night, with an unknown cause at the time, when the property manager got a call from a neighboring warehouse that there were flames to be seen from the windows. Once all the soot and smoke had a chance to settle the property manager was able to call the experts of SERVPRO Studio City/Valley Village a Large Loss Response Team to help with his fire damage. After a few weeks of mitigation, demolition, and reconstruction our technicians were able to get this company reopened and back in business. The property manager, as well as the business owner and his employees, were thrilled with the outcome of the mitigation. The warehouse looked brand new and everyone was happy to be back at work.