El Dorado Restoration Company Explains How to Protect Homes from Fire Damage

 If a fire starts in a home and is not immediately extinguished, the small flame can grow into a life-threatening blaze, causing extensive fire damage and possibly personal injury. By implementing a few practical safety precautions, the homeowner can protect the home against fire.

1. Install several smoke alarms throughout the home.

The following findings from the National Fire Protection Association highlight how having working smoke alarms in the home saves lives: “Smoke alarms were present in three-quarters (74 percent) of reported home fires in 2014–2018. Almost three out of five home fire deaths were caused by fires in properties with no smoke alarms (41 percent) or smoke alarms that failed to operate (16 percent). The risk of dying in reported home structure fires is 55 percent lower in homes with working smoke alarms than in homes with no alarms or none that worked. When present, hardwired smoke alarms operated in 94 percent of the fires considered large enough to trigger a smoke alarm. Battery-powered alarms operated 82 percent of the time. Power source issues were the most common factors when smoke alarms failed to operate.”

Test the home’s smoke alarms at least once a month. Perform regular maintenance, including installing fresh batteries on an annual basis. When a unit makes a chirping noise, replace the battery.  Conduct a test to ensure proper installation has been achieved. Replace a smoke alarm after ten years.

2. Identify and eliminate fire hazards in the kitchen.

The majority of house fires originate in the kitchen during the cooking process. The stovetop is the most at-risk part of the appliance. Unattended pots and pans on a hot eye are particularly dangerous. When cooking, frying, or grilling on a stovetop, stay in the kitchen and keep a close eye on the dish. A pan can erupt into flames in an instant. Flammable items such as hand towels, napkins, curtains, and paper towels should be kept away from the stovetop.

If surrounded by counter clutter, a microwave can present a risk hazard. Make sure the microwave vents are not obstructed. Keep a fresh fire extinguisher in a visible and easily accessible location in the kitchen.

Many cooking fires start in overheated frying pans. If a pan erupts into flames, cover the pan with a lid. Very carefully remove the pan from the hot burner and turn off the stove burner. Allow the pan to cool before removing the lid.

3. Exercise caution when using space heaters, a wood stove, or a fireplace.

Keep any flammable materials at least three feet away from a space heater, wood stove, or fireplace. Avoid overloading an electrical circuit with too many space heaters. Maintain a wood stove according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Do not place flammable items on the mantle above the fireplace.

It is recommended that homeowners invest in a metal or glass fireplace screen to improve safety around the fireplace. The screen should be large enough to prevent hot embers from escaping.

Douse a fire in the fireplace and extinguish any burning candles before leaving home. Also, unplug heating appliances.

4. Keep the clothes dryer clean.

Dryers are involved in ninety percent of appliance fires. Clean the lint screen after every load of clothes. It may be necessary to clean the lint screen during the cycle if new towels or fleece blankets are being dried. Have a professional thoroughly inspect and clean the dryer and dryer exhaust vents annually.

5. Inspect and repair electronics and outlets.

Repair or replace electrical outlets that are wearing out. Include light switches in the inspection. As much as possible, have a dedicated outlet for each major appliance. Safety trumps décor. Avoid running extension cords under rugs. Hire a licensed electrician to install GFCI outlets in the bathrooms, kitchen, laundry room, and garage to prevent electrocution.

Most electronics should be unplugged when not in use. Computers and televisions require a certain amount of space for heat dissipation and for cooling fans to function properly.

6. Declutter the basement, garage, and backyard storage shed.

Old newspapers, books, clothing, solvents, paint, aerosol cans, and plastics are highly flammable and pose a significant fire risk. The safest and best solution is to discard items that are not being used. Avoid using a grill, fire pit, or any other open flame or heat source near these flammable items. When the grill is in use, keep it at least ten feet away from any structure.

In the event of a house fire, entrust the cleanup and damage restoration to the seasoned professionals at Restore-It Restoration and Cleaning. The certified professionals understand the need to quickly clean up and restore a fire and smoke damage disaster so life in the home can return to normal. They have the latest equipment and utilize the best cleaning and deodorizing products to ensure the home is safe and odor-free.

For more information about fire damage restoration in El Dorado, AR, contact the Restore-It Restoration and Cleaning office by phone at (870) 417-4614.

How to Protect the Home from Water Damage While the Homeowner Is Traveling

Water damage is not an experience any homeowner wants to face after arriving home from a long trip or an extended vacation. However, life happens, and sometimes life includes a property damage disaster. In that situation, contact the professionals at Restore-It Restoration and Cleaning for a rapid response and reliable customer service that will return life to normal as quickly as possible.

When the topic of water damage comes up, most homeowners think of storm-related water intrusions. However, most water damage incidents experienced in and around the home result from leaks in pipes and connections that need maintenance. A water leak that occurs while the homeowner is on vacation or an extended business trip is a recipe for a very unpleasant homecoming surprise.

The water damage prevention tips listed below will help homeowners avoid damage to or the loss of their property.

Tip #1: Consider utilizing leak detection devices.

Affordable leak detection technologies provide homeowners the early warnings they need to avert serious water damage in those high-risk areas of the home, such as under sinks. Some models require technical expertise to install, while other types can be easily installed by the homeowner. Place the devices in areas where a water release is more prone. Real-time alerts can be sent to a smartphone when a water leak occurs.

Tip #2: Only operate appliances that use water when someone is present to keep an eye on the situation.

Appliance failure can occur at any time. When the supply line to the washer or dishwasher fails, as much as seven to nine gallons of water per minute can flood onto the floor. An hour’s trip to the mall could lead to 500 gallons of water spilling into the kitchen or laundry room, adjacent rooms, and possibly even the basement.

Tip #3: Install automatic valve shutoff devices.

More sophisticated leak detection systems can automatically shut off the water flow when the system senses a leak.

Tip #4: Locate shutoff valves and be familiar with how they work.

Create a simple map of valve locations, and include operating instructions with the map. Post the map in key places around the home, such as near the main electrical panel box, inside the cabinet above the washing machine, in the garage, and on the cloud where it can be accessed by a smartphone or computer.

Store the water meter shutoff curb key in an easily accessible location in the home. Include a note about the location of the shutoff tool on the maps strategically located throughout the house. This tool alone can prevent thousands of dollars in water damage. Shutoff keys are less than $20 at the local big box hardware store, and a spare key could prove useful if the main tool is misplaced. Be sure to test each tool on the main valve to ensure the key works. Use bright orange paint to carefully mark the valve inside the meter box so that the valve can be seen in low light.

Tip #5: Consider shutting off all water in the event of an extended absence.

Consult a professional before shutting off the main valve for an extended period. If shutting off the main valve is not advisable, consider shutting off the supply lines to major appliances, toilets, and faucets. Consult a professional regarding the proper protocol for dealing with the water heater. A cold shower after a long trip is not a good scenario.

Tip #6: Keep the home at 55 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer if the vacation or trip is during the winter months.

This strategy will prevent most interior pipes from freezing. Open the cabinet doors under the sinks. If frigid weather is in the forecast during the homeowner’s absence, have a friend or family member inspect the residence for water leaks and water damage.

Tip #7: Properly maintain appliances, faucets, and toilets.

Older homes and plumbing systems increase the risk of a leak. Replace shutoff valves, supply lines, and faucet washers as prescribed by the manufacturer.

Tip #8: Conduct frequent inspections of high-risk areas.

Drips, moisture, or a mildewy smell may indicate a plumbing issue. Cracks, dislocations, corrosion, and deposits on exposed pipes and plumbing are indications that a plumbing professional may need to assess the situation.

A water damage disaster is disruptive, inconvenient, and stressful, and homeowners who have experienced a water intrusion understand the importance of hiring a dependable service provider for water damage cleanup. The professionals at Restore-It Restoration and Cleaning are IICRC-certified and ready to serve the restoration and cleaning needs of El Dorado and the surrounding areas.

Contact Restore-It Restoration and Cleaning for more information about water damage restoration services. The team can be reached by phone at (870) 417-4614.

Common Locations Where Mold Can Hide in El Dorado, AR, Homes

 The mold removal specialists at Restore-It Restoration and Cleaning understand the importance of remediating mold issues in a home or business. Mold can be unsightly and inconvenient when it gets out of control. The highly trained and certified technicians at Restore-It Restoration and Cleaning take mold remediation seriously. They utilize the latest equipment, techniques, and cleaning products to make the mold-infested home or business clean, safe, and healthy.

 

Mold loves moisture, warmth, darkness, and organic matter and can be found lurking in several places in a home.

On and around appliances

Refrigerators, freezers, window air conditioners, and HVAC systems have seals, coils, and drip pans that are attractive to mold. Also, mold will grow on the sides of appliances that do not get much sunlight. Do not be surprised to find mold growing on the back of the refrigerator, on the wall behind the freezer, or on the floor under both appliances. Add these hiding places to the cleaning regimen to hinder mold growth.

The floor mats next to the kitchen sink or in front of the refrigerator can harbor hidden mold. When mopping the floor, clean the floor mats as well. Include any doormats, as well.

On dishes in the kitchen cabinet

In the hustle and bustle of life, the temptation is to put away dishes before they are thoroughly dry. This practice invites mold growth on the plates and in the cabinets, which is unsanitary and unsightly, especially when guests come for dinner only to find mold on their dinner plates and dessert dishes. Dry dishes, plates, and glassware thoroughly either by hand or using the drying cycle on the dishwasher to prevent mold growth in kitchen cabinets and cupboards.

Under the sink

Kitchen and bathroom sinks provide mold the warm, moist, and dark environment it needs to thrive. Condensation or plumbing leaks can enrich the setting with the extra moisture thirsty mold needs to explode in spore counts. By wiping down the inside of the sink cabinet with a mild bleach solution, mold growth can be prevented. A hydrogen peroxide-based solution works well, also. Whenever cleaning with bleach, be sure to wear protective eyewear, rubber gloves, and an apron or old clothing. Wash the clothing separately to avoid damaging other items in the wash. While cleaning under the bathroom sink, prevent mold growth in the toothbrush caddy and soap dish by thoroughly rinsing and drying each item.

In filing cabinets and cardboard storage boxes

More than paper may be filed away in the home filing cabinet if the environment is damp or the home suffers a water damage disaster. Paper is a favorite food for fungi, so a moist attic or damp basement is not the best place to store files or other important documents. The home office may need a dehumidifier during the hot, muggy months of the year.

On children’s toys

Toys, drool, dirt, and the darkness of the toybox provide just the habitat mold needs to thrive. A regular ride through the washing machine or dishwasher should keep toys mold-free.

In potted house plants

Plants can be very thirsty in the dry humidity of a home. Avoid the temptation to over-water plants. The excessive moisture leads to root rot which can kill a plant. Mold devours the warm, moist, nutrient-rich potting soil used for houseplants. Brown, green, or black mold growing on the surface of the pots may indicate overwatering.

Bonus tip: If plant leaves wilt and turn brown, the problem could be either underwatering or overwatering. If the leaves are brittle and crumble, the problem may be underwatering. If the leaves are supple and pliable, the problem may be overwatering.

The comprehensive mold remediation services offered by Restore-It Restoration and Cleaning are designed to meet the customer’s needs when it comes to mold remediation. Services include:

• Mold inspection, testing, assessment, and containment
• Cleaning and dehumidification
• Mold remediation
• Clearing testing

Homeowners can trust the professionals at Restore-It Restoration and Cleaning to handle mold problems wherever they may occur in El Dorado, AR, homes. Mold can spread rapidly, but fast action on the part of the homeowner and the damage restoration company can prevent an infestation and property damage.

For more information about El Dorado, AR, mold removal services, the team of damage restoration experts at Restore-It Restoration and Cleaning can be contacted by phone at (870) 417-4614.

Common Locations Where Mold Can Hide

 

Eight Tips for Homeowners Experiencing Their First Water Damage Disaster

 Restore-It Restoration and Cleaning is dedicated to helping homeowners and businesses recover from water damage in El Dorado, AR. Water damage is one of the most common property damage disasters homeowners will face over the many years of homeownership. Around every six seconds, a water damage disaster occurs somewhere in the United States.

Forbes Advisor reports, “If you’re a homeowner, water is one of the biggest threats to your house and personal belongings. Your house has an intricate network of plumbing, and a burst pipe could lead to both major headaches and expensive repair bills. Not to mention other water problems, like a heavy storm, a deep freeze, or even a busted hose on a dishwasher. It seems your home is always moments away from getting soaked. Water damage (including damage from freezing) is one of the most common and most costly types of homeowners insurance claims. Every year, about one in 50 homeowners will file a water damage or freezing claim, accounting for almost 24% of all homeowners insurance claims, according to the Insurance Information Institute. The average cost of a water damage or freezing claim is about $10,900.”

Homeowners need not worry about a potential water damage disaster every time a thunderstorm rumbles through the neighborhood or every time they use an appliance such as a washing machine or dishwasher. However, it is important to know how to deal with that first water damage disaster when it occurs.

One in fifty homes will have to deal with a water damage disaster; the key to successfully overcoming the stress, disruption, and damage is to be prepared. Listed below are eight tips to put into practice when water damage is present in the home.

1. Act quickly to begin the water removal and damage restoration process.

A delay in the water removal and damage restoration process will allow the situation to worsen. If the water intrusion is left unresolved, water will find its way into walls, vents, electrical sockets, appliances, and furniture. Fast action can prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

2. Hire a professional water damage restoration company to remove the water and restore the property.

Professionals with the right equipment and education can finish the job quickly. They can also handle the insurance claim process from start to finish.

3. Identify the source and extent of the water damage.

The source of the water intrusion must be located and resolved, and the extent of the damage must be carefully identified. The failure to remove all the water and restore the entire damaged area can result in the growth of dangerous mold, bacteria, or other toxins.

4. Take the necessary safety precautions.

A water damage disaster can involve category two water and category three water which are unsanitary. This environment requires the appropriate safety gear, including protective clothing, gloves, boots, and masks. The risk of electrical shock in a water damage disaster is high. Trained professionals know how to safely work in this environment.

5. Use the appropriate equipment to extract the water and dehumidify the residence.

Brooms, mops, and towels cannot safely and completely remove all of the water and moisture from the damaged area. Strong vacuums, rapid-spin fans, industrial-strength dehumidifiers, and appropriate cleaning products are foundational for completing the job correctly.

6. Hire a water damage restoration company with trained, certified technicians.

Before contracting with a company for services, ensure the technicians are trained and certified in water damage restoration. Check the company’s Better Business Bureau rating, and look at customer reviews online. Make sure the company is licensed, certified, and insured.

7. The lowest-priced service provider may not provide the best service.

Consider the company’s years of experience, track record, and qualifications. Experienced technicians using the latest equipment and best cleaning techniques will be more efficient and thorough than novices. An inferior water damage restoration can lead to health issues, mold, and structural damage to the home.

8. Hire a water damage restoration company that guarantees emergency services.

A delay of a day or two in the water removal and extraction process allows the extent of the damage to worsen, expanding the scope of the restoration project and increasing the cost of the project. Hire a company that guarantees a quick response time.

When a water damage disaster strikes, contact the professionals at Restore-it Restoration and Cleaning. A fast response time, the right equipment for the job, experienced and certified technicians, and excellent customer service are reasons why Restore-it Restoration and Cleaning is the best choice for water damage restoration in El Dorado, AR, and the surrounding area.

To learn more about water damage restoration in El Dorado, AR, contact the office by phone at (870) 417-4614.

Water Damage Restoration Images - 9/15/2021