Fire Prevention Month: Tips and Services from SERVPRO®

10/3/2024 (Permalink)

October is Fire Prevention Month: Tips and Services from SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW

October is National Fire Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about fire safety and ensuring that homes and businesses are prepared in case of an emergency. At SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW, we understand the devastating impact fires can have, and we're here to help you not only prevent fires but also recover quickly in the unfortunate event that they occur.

Why Fire Prevention Month is Important

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), home fires are more common than many people realize. With a focus on fire prevention, October is the perfect time to take a few critical steps to protect your family, property, and community from fire hazards.

**Here’s why it’s essential to take action:**

• Over 350,000 house fires occur in the U.S. annually.
• Cooking, heating, and electrical issues are leading causes of fires.
• The majority of home fire deaths occur when alarms are missing or not working.

Fire Safety Tips You Can Implement Today

To reduce the risk of fire, it's crucial to take preventive measures. Here are a few tips to help protect your home or business:

1. Install Smoke Alarms: Ensure that working smoke alarms are installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home. Check them monthly to make sure they function correctly.
2. Create and Practice a Fire Escape Plan: Make sure your family or employees know two ways to escape every room and establish a designated meeting place outside. Practice fire drills regularly to ensure everyone is prepared.
3. Stay Safe While Cooking: Cooking is the leading cause of house fires. Never leave food unattended on the stove, and keep flammable items like towels and paper away from heat sources.
4. Inspect Heating Equipment: As the colder months approach, inspect your furnace, chimney, and space heaters. Keep flammable items at least three feet away from heating devices.
5. Be Cautious with Candles and Electrical Equipment: Keep candles at least one foot away from anything that can burn and blow them out before leaving a room. For electrical safety, avoid overloading outlets, and unplug appliances when not in use.

SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW Fire Restoration Services

In the unfortunate event that a fire does occur, SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW is ready to respond 24/7. As a trusted Commercial Large Loss team, we have the experience and resources to handle fire damage of any size—whether it’s a small home or a large commercial property.

Our fire restoration services include:

• Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Services: We help secure your property to prevent further damage.
• Smoke and Soot Removal: Using advanced equipment, we remove smoke odors and soot from walls, ceilings, and other surfaces.
• Cleaning and Sanitization: We clean and restore personal belongings affected by the fire, including furniture, documents, and electronics.
• Reconstruction Services: Our construction team can rebuild areas damaged by fire to restore your property to its preloss condition.

Partnering for a Safer Community

SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW is proud to partner with local fire departments and first responders across our eight territories to promote fire safety. We sponsor community initiatives and work hand-in-hand with frontline outreach programs to support fire prevention education and assist those affected by disasters.

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As we observe Fire Prevention Month this October, take the time to protect your home or business from fire hazards. And remember, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW is here to help with expert fire damage restoration services.

Contact us today for more information about fire safety or our restoration services at 612-759-4224. Stay safe, stay prepared!

September Safety Tips: Protect Your Property from Water and Fire Damage This Fall

9/17/2024 (Permalink)

September Safety Tips: Protect Your Property from Water and Fire Damage This Fall

As summer fades into autumn, September is the perfect time for homeowners and business owners to take a proactive approach to protecting their properties. The change of seasons brings its own set of risks, from unpredictable weather patterns to increased fire hazards. At SERVPRO® of Minneapolis NW we’re here to help you prepare for the unexpected and keep your home or business safe this fall.

1. Prepare for Heavy Rain and Water Damage

Minnesota’s fall months often bring a mix of rain and cooler temperatures. While the autumn colors are beautiful, the weather can quickly cause issues for property owners if you’re not prepared.

• Gutter Maintenance: Falling leaves and debris can clog gutters, leading to water pooling on your roof or around your foundation. Be sure to clean them regularly to prevent water damage.

• Inspect Your Roof: Missing or damaged shingles could allow rainwater to seep into your home or building. Take time this month to schedule a roof inspection and make any necessary repairs.

• Seal Cracks and Leaks: Check windows, doors, and your foundation for cracks or gaps where water could enter. Proper sealing can prevent major water damage before it starts.

2. Fire Hazards on the Rise: Stay Safe This Fall

While water damage is a common concern, fire hazards increase as the temperatures drop and we begin using fireplaces, heaters, and candles more frequently. Protect your property from potential fire damage with these easy steps:

• Inspect Heating Systems: Whether you’re firing up the furnace or lighting a fireplace, make sure all heating systems are in good working order. Hire a professional to inspect your systems before the first cold snap.

• Fireplace Safety: Keep flammable materials far from the fireplace, and never leave it unattended. Chimneys should also be cleaned regularly to prevent dangerous creosote buildup.

• Test Smoke Alarms: Take a few minutes to test and replace batteries in all smoke alarms. Early detection is key to preventing fire disasters.

3. Emergency Preparedness: Be Ready for the Unexpected

As we’ve seen in recent years, weather can be unpredictable, and being prepared for emergencies is crucial. Whether it’s a severe storm, power outage, or sudden water damage, a little preparation can go a long way.

• Create a Disaster Kit: Include essentials like flashlights, batteries, water, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, and important documents. Having this ready can be a lifesaver during unexpected emergencies.

• Develop an Emergency Plan: Make sure everyone in your home or business knows the plan in case of fire or flooding. Designate exit routes, meeting places, and emergency contacts.

4. Why Choose SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW?

At SERVPRO, we understand the stress that water and fire damage can cause. That’s why we’re here to help 24/7, ready to respond at a moment’s notice. Our certified professionals use state-of-the-art equipment and proven techniques to restore your home or business to pre-damage condition—fast.

Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of storm damage or taking preventive steps to secure your property, SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW is your trusted partner in restoration and cleaning.

Don’t wait for disaster to strike—be proactive this fall! Call SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW today at 612-759-4224 for a free consultation and peace of mind as we head into the cooler months.

Beat the Heat: Why You Need SERVPRO® When the Heat is On

8/26/2024 (Permalink)

Beat the Heat: 5 Reasons Why You Need SERVPRO® When the Heat is On

Attention Homeowners! 

With extreme heat and muggy, high humidity levels in the forecast, your home could be facing some serious challenges! From mold growth to overworked AC units, these conditions can wreak havoc on your property. But don’t sweat it—SERVPRO Team Hickman is Here to Help®!

Mold & Mildew Growth: High humidity is the perfect breeding ground for mold, especially in basements, attics, and bathrooms. We’ll help you keep these areas mold-free and safe.

AC Strain & Indoor Air Quality: Don’t let your AC unit break down when you need it most! We offer duct cleaning and maintenance to ensure your system runs efficiently and your air stays fresh.

Structural Damage: Humidity can warp wood and damage your home’s structure. SERVPRO® can help you maintain the integrity of your property with our expert services.

Increased Pests: Hot, humid weather attracts pests. Keep your home sealed and secure with our professional pest control solutions.

Electrical Overload: Avoid costly electrical issues with our proactive services that keep your systems running smoothly during peak usage.

Whether it’s preventing basement flooding, protecting your landscaping, or ensuring your home is a safe haven from the heat, SERVPRO Team Hickman has you covered. Don’t wait for problems to arise—call us today and let us keep your home cool, safe, and comfortable all summer long!

Commercial Large Loss Response Team

8/26/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW is a SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Response Team

SERVPRO® of Minneapolis NW: Your Trusted Commercial Large Loss Team

When disaster strikes a commercial property, the impact can be overwhelming. From lost revenue to disrupted operations, the stakes are high, and the need for a swift, expert response is critical. That’s where SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW comes in as your dedicated Commercial Large Loss team, providing the experience, resources, and commitment necessary to restore your business to full operation as quickly as possible.

What is a Commercial Large Loss?

A Commercial Large Loss refers to significant damage to commercial properties caused by events such as fire, water, storm damage, or other disasters. These losses typically involve extensive damage that can impact multiple areas of a building, or even entire facilities, requiring specialized restoration services.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW?

As a certified Commercial Large Loss team, SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW has the expertise to handle even the most challenging restoration projects. Here’s what sets us apart:

1. Specialized Training and Expertise

   • Our team is highly trained in large loss restoration, equipped with the knowledge to tackle complex and extensive damage. From initial assessment to final restoration, we understand the unique challenges that large-scale losses present and are prepared to address them efficiently.

2. Advanced Equipment and Technology

   • SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW utilizes state-of-the-art equipment and technology to ensure the highest level of restoration. From industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to advanced moisture detection tools, we have the resources to handle large-scale projects effectively.

3. Comprehensive Project Management

   • Large loss restoration requires meticulous planning and coordination. Our experienced project managers oversee every aspect of the restoration process, ensuring that timelines are met, budgets are adhered to, and the quality of work is maintained at the highest standard.

4. Rapid Response and Mobilization

   • Time is of the essence when dealing with a large loss. Our team is ready to respond 24/7, quickly mobilizing resources to minimize further damage and begin the restoration process. We work efficiently to get your business back up and running as soon as possible.

5. Commitment to Minimizing Disruption

   • We understand the importance of maintaining business continuity during restoration. Our team works closely with you to develop a tailored plan that minimizes disruption to your operations, allowing you to continue serving your customers while we handle the restoration.

6. National Resources, Local Expertise

   • As part of the SERVPRO network, we have access to a vast array of resources, including additional personnel and equipment, ensuring that no job is too large for us to handle. At the same time, our local expertise allows us to provide personalized service tailored to the specific needs of your business and community.

A Partner You Can Trust

When a large loss occurs, you need more than just a restoration company—you need a partner you can trust. SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW is dedicated to being that partner, providing unparalleled service and support during your time of need. Our goal is to restore not just your property, but your peace of mind, knowing that your business is in the hands of experts who care.

If your commercial property experiences a large loss, don’t hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW. We’re here to help you navigate the challenges of large-scale restoration with professionalism, expertise, and a commitment to getting the job done right.

Contact Us Today

For more information on our Commercial Large Loss services or to speak with one of our experts, contact SERVPRO of Minneapolis NW. We’re here to assist you with all your commercial restoration needs, no matter the size of the loss.

Pet Fire Safety Tips

7/30/2024 (Permalink)

Pet Fire Safety Tips from SERVPRO of Minneapolis Northwest

Pet Fire Safety Tips from SERVPRO of Minneapolis Northwest

At SERVPRO of Minneapolis Northwest, we understand that your pets are cherished members of your family. Protecting them from fire hazards is as important as ensuring the safety of all your loved ones. Here are some essential tips to keep your furry friends safe from fire-related dangers:

1. Prevent Pet-Related Fires

• Secure Open Flames: Pets are naturally curious, which can lead them to explore lit candles, fireplaces, or stovetops. Always keep these areas secure and never leave open flames unattended.
• Pet-Proof Your Home: Use flameless candles and cover stovetop knobs to prevent accidental ignition. Consider installing baby gates or other barriers to keep pets away from these areas.
• Check Electrical Cords: Pets, especially puppies and kittens, love to chew on things. Make sure to keep electrical cords out of reach or use cord protectors.

2. Prepare for Emergencies

• Include Pets in Your Fire Escape Plan: Practice your fire escape plan with your pets. Designate someone to be responsible for retrieving pets and ensure everyone in the household knows their role.
• Keep Collars and Leashes Accessible: Keep collars and leashes near the exit points of your home to quickly secure your pets during an evacuation.
• Display Pet Alert Stickers: Place a pet alert sticker on your front window to inform firefighters of the presence of pets in your home.

3. Train Your Pets

• Teach Commands: Training your pets to respond to commands such as "come" and "stay" can be crucial in an emergency situation. Consistent training will help you guide them safely during a fire.

4. Protect Your Home with Fire Detectors

• Install Smoke Alarms: Make sure your home is equipped with working smoke alarms on every level. Consider using monitored smoke detectors, which alert emergency services even when you’re not home.
• Test Regularly: Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year to ensure they’re functioning correctly.

5. Have an Emergency Kit Ready

• Assemble a Pet Emergency Kit: Include items such as food, water, medications, a blanket, and a toy in a pet emergency kit. Keep this kit in a location that is easy to grab in case you need to evacuate quickly.

6. Know Your Pet’s Hiding Spots

• Familiarize Yourself with Your Pet’s Habits: In stressful situations, pets often hide. Know where your pet likes to hide in the house, so you can quickly locate them in an emergency.

7. After the Fire

• Check for Injuries: Once you’re safely outside, check your pet for any injuries or signs of smoke inhalation. If you suspect any issues, contact your veterinarian immediately.
• Comfort Your Pet: After a traumatic event like a fire, your pet may be scared or disoriented. Provide them with comfort and reassurance as they adjust to the situation.

At SERVPRO of Minneapolis Northwest, we're dedicated to helping you protect what matters most. By implementing these fire safety tips, you can help ensure your pets remain safe and secure. If you ever face fire damage in your home, remember that SERVPRO is here to assist with professional restoration services. Stay safe!

Whatever Disaster Strikes at Your Business, SERVPRO is Here

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

We are the premier service professionals ready to help your business in even the biggest jobs. Fire, water, mold, we can handle it.

When a fire happens, it can bring your business to a sudden halt. Thankfully, SERVPRO is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year. When a fire happens, give us a call so we can get you back to normal and up and running as soon as possible.

Whether it’s a leaky pipe or like the flood gates opened and there is water everywhere, SERVPRO has you covered. We have the highest quality equipment available so you can get everything up and running in no time.

Noticing a foul odor? Starting to see dark spots? Well, you might have a mold problem. Don’t fret, SERVPRO can help. We are experts at mold remediation. Your business is safe with us.

3 Helpful Things To Know About Flood Insurance

5/20/2022 (Permalink)

Flood Insurance 

When looking at commercial insurance policies for a Minneapolis, MN business, many company owners may be wondering if flood insurance is a good choice for their property. Here are a few things to consider.

1. What May Be Covered

In most cases, a flood policy will cover damage caused by nature or accidents. This usually includes incidents such as a broken pipe or sewer backup, along with rain overflow and other storm damage. It is the policy holder’s responsibility to know exactly what their plan covers, but most normal flooding falls under these categories. In many cases, the insurance provider may also cover the cost of repair and cleanup, as well as recommend a professional restoration service.

2. What May Not Be Covered

Many commercial insurance policies will not cover flooding that comes as a result of neglect. This means that if you knew one area needed repairs, you failed to take action, and flooding occurred as a result, then your insurance provider may decline coverage.

3. What a Restoration Company Can Do

Insurance providers may have recommendations for a restoration company that may be able to help. A professional restoration service is equipped to help with large-scale disasters according to FEMA guidelines. They also offer services such as electronic inventory management system, which can be used to document items and repair requirements as they go. The database can be updated by the restoration team and accessed by the insurance agents allowing them to have the most up-to-date information as they keep track of the claim.

When looking at their commercial insurance policy, it's up to the policyholder to know what exactly is included. In most cases, flooding caused by accidents or natural disasters will be covered. Flooding caused by neglect, however, probably will not. A professional restoration team may have the tools necessary to work with the insurance company in order to help process the claim and keep all required information updated.

4 Tips for Preventing Dryer Fires

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

There are many ways for a fire to break out in a home in Minneapolis, MN. One overlooked location is the dryer. There are a number of ways for a dryer fire to develop. Nearly 3,000 of these fires are reported every year, and they result in over $35 million in property damage annually. Fortunately, with some routine maintenance, you should not have to worry as much about a lint fire forming.

1. Keep the Top of the Dryer Free of Any Debris

In the event a fire does break out in your laundry room, you do not want to give it more fuel that could cause it to spread to other areas of your home. Therefore, do not leave anything on top of your dryer. This includes clothing, boxes and books. You also want to keep the areas behind and around the dryer clear.

2. Clean Out the Lint Screen After Every Load

A good habit to get into is to clean the lint screen before every use. After a while, you will start doing it without thinking about it. Even a small amount of material in the system can result in a lint fire. To remind you, you should keep a small wastebasket in your laundry room.

3. Clean the Vent Line Regularly

You should detach your vent line once in a while and make sure it is not getting clogged up by lint or various pieces of debris. If you are unsure of what to look for in the vent, then you should consider hiring a professional to come out and take a look at it.

4. Inspect the Vent Hose

Another component to examine regularly is the vent hose. If your current hose is not made out of aluminum, then you should replace it with one that is. You want the hose to be as short as possible to reduce the likelihood of it getting crushed and potentially starting a lint fire.

How To Prevent Toilet Overflow

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Every homeowner in Champlin, MN dreads coming home to face a flooded toilet. Regardless if the toilet spurted clean or contaminated water into the bathroom, it requires a professional’s immediate help. The flooding may be a result of sewer damage causing waste to go back up through the pipes into the toilet. You can do a lot of good by preventing overflow before it happens by taking a few preventive measures.

1. Do Not Flush Random Items Down the Toilet

This is a particular concern in households with children, but even adults have been known to flush things down the toilet they should not. Some common items to keep out of there include:

• Napkins
• Papers
• Soaps
• Baby wipes
• Lotions
• Body creams

Flushing these items can cause them to get stuck in the pipes. Even things such as body cream, lotion and grease should stay out of toilets because they can harden through the pipes, causing a backup.

2. Clean the Toilet Regularly

In addition to keeping solid objects out of the toilet that can cause significant sewer damage, you also want to perform regular maintenance on the septic tank system. You should contact a sewage company once every eight years to clean and maintain your home’s septic tank. You can also clean your toilet routinely by using disinfectants and liquid detergent.

3. Avoid Flushing

Hopefully, the kind of toilet backup you will contend with will not be anything serious. Some toilets will merely overflow a little bit before receding. You may be able to clean up a small mess on your own, but you want to avoid flushing until you know the issue is resolved. Use a plunger to try to move the clog out of position. If nothing at your disposal seems to be working, then you should hire a professional plumber to come out and address the sewer damage.

How To Save Personal Items After a Fire

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

How To Save Personal Items After a Fire

Cleaning up your home after a fire is not an easy task. Not only may you have lost personal belongings to the flames, but smoke leaves an acrid scent behind that is incredibly difficult to remove. Regardless of the type of content storage you use, chances are the odor has become attached to nearly every item in your house. When you begin the long task of content cleaning, utilizing dry cleaning and ultrasonic cleaning may be able to remove the odor from your home.

Dry Cleaning

Clothes, bedding, curtains, and any other kind of fabric can absorb the smoke smell, and the odor will not come out with a regular washer and dryer. Having any porous item dry cleaned can help remove the smell and get the items back to smelling fresh. A professional company uses a special solvent and a method called extraction to remove the water. This process is much more effective at removing the smell of smoke from porous items than any other kind of cleaning.

Ultrasonic Cleaning

For nonporous items, you need a different method of cleaning. Many personal items are nonporous, as are many building fixtures, including those on the following list.

Some furniture
Walls
Counters
Storage containers
Doors

For a thorough cleansing, try ultrasonic cleaning. This method involves blasting the item with a special solution that contains millions of microscopic bubbles. As the bubbles pop, they release intense heat and pressure, cleaning nonporous items quickly, and efficiently removing the smell of smoke.

When dealing with the aftermath of a fire, your first instinct may be to discard any item that smells like smoke. Unfortunately, the odor penetrates nearly every item it comes in contact with, but your possessions and content storage can almost always be saved. Different types of content cleaning such as dry cleaning and ultrasonic cleaning may be effective in saving many of your personal belongings from the unpleasant odor of smoke. Visit https://www.SERVPROnortheastminneapolis.com/  for more information on fire damage.