Facts & Stats: Fires

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

We are "here to help" handle your home or business's fire damage restoration needs!

The unpredictable nature of fires can lead to so much devastation and loss for your home or business.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are around 346,800 house fires per year causing on average 2,620 fatalities.

Understanding the facts when it comes to fires can help you to better prepare your family and employees in case of disaster.

General Fire Facts & Stats

- Cooking is the leading cause of house fires, followed by:

• Heating
• Electrical Systems & Equipment
• Candles
• Smoking

- In 2020, fire and lightning insurance claims had the highest average payout of $77,340.

- On average, across the US, a fire department responded to a fire every 23 seconds in 2021.

- In 2021, there were 1,353,500 fires reported, including residential and non-residential structures.

- In 2020, per 1,000 fires, the national average was 2 deaths and 8 injuries.

Ohio Fire Facts & Stats

- Ohio has the 7th most fatal home fires per capita in relation to the other 50 states, with Texas being the first.

- Smoking is the top cause of fire deaths in the state of Ohio, making up 20% of fatalities.

It's difficult and scary to imagine your home or business experiencing a fire. It can be hard to determine where to start when a disaster like this occurs.

If your home or business falls victim to a fire, SERVPRO of Ashland/Richland is "here to help." Our experienced technicians handle the care and restoration of your property and its contents. We handle the cleanup and the reconstruction, so you don't have to worry about juggling multiple companies.

If you find yourself in need of fire damage restoration, give us a call today!

Cleaning Your Belongings After a Fire

11/21/2022 (Permalink)

Our crew handles your fire damage restoration needs from board up, to clean up, and all the way through the reconstruction process!

Once a fire takes place on your property, you will likely find yourself experiencing anxiety and concern regarding the condition of your residential living space. Smoke damage to your possessions presents unique challenges to SERVPRO for successful salvaging. For example, the smoke that results from a fire can leave behind a residue that coats your property and causes issues such as warping, rusting, corrosion, etching, discoloration, and staining. Smoke generates unwanted odors that are stubborn to remove. There are four categories of property items that are specifically susceptible to extensive, expensive damage from the smoke and soot that fires generate. 

Wooden Furniture
Wooden furniture will often require careful, extensive treatment due to smoke and soot damage. Typically, wood is very porous, which makes it more susceptible to retaining odors, acquiring residue, and taking on staining. Hard surfaces offer a landing point for oily soot.

Carpets, Drapes, Upholstery, and Rugs
Each of these items is recognized for absorbing and subsequently retaining unpleasant smells. Depending on the level of penetration and type of material, the odors generated by smoke soot can be difficult to remove completely. SERVPRO utilizes specialized dry cleaning services for fabrics.

Books
A library replete with well-kept books in good condition can quickly deteriorate into a library full of damaged books. The heat and acid generated by the smoke can degrade book bindings and cause discoloration of the pages. If the books were wet, we have specific equipment and techniques for drying and restoring, if possible.

Artwork
Different media of artwork can be adversely impacted from smoke damage, including antique sculptures, original paintings and framing, and family photographs and albums.  Although you may feel inclined to complete the restoration process on your own, it is always best to contact industry experts to do the job. If you complete the cleaning process incorrectly or incompletely, you could permanently damage or even destroy your valuable artwork. SERVPRO can restore many artifacts, but recognizes limitations and liabilities. We can secure the services of an art museum or a private company for restoration.

Choose SERVPRO Now!
Once your property is impacted by smoke damage, there's only one company to call for professional restoration: SERVPRO. With over 57 years of experience in the industry and our team of IICRC-certified professionals, we are passionate about offering customized services that suit your individual needs and preferences. We offer free estimates, a fast response, and immediate customer service. Don't put up with unwanted smoke damage and odors for a moment longer. Instead, allow us to restore your property "Like it never even happened."

Have Smoke or Fire Damage?

SERVPRO of North Richland and Ashland Counties is dedicated to responding immediately day or night to your Mansfield or Ashland, Ohio home or business. We offer 24/7 service to Mansfield, Ashland ,and surrounding areas. Call us at (419) 207-8449.