Surviving Winter Storms: Essential Home Preparation Guide for the Northeast

9/11/2023 (Permalink)

Preparing your home for winter storms in the Northeast is essential to ensure safety, comfort, and peace of mind throughout the cold season.

The winter season in the Northeast can be unforgiving, with freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and strong winds. As a homeowner or property owner in this region, it's essential to take proactive steps to prepare your home for the challenges that winter storms can bring. In this blog, we'll provide a comprehensive winter storm survival guide to help you safeguard your property, ensure the safety of your loved ones, and maintain a comfortable living environment throughout the cold season.

Weatherproofing Your Home

When it comes to weatherproofing your home, focus on creating a warm and energy-efficient environment. Inspect the insulation in your walls, attic, and crawl spaces to prevent heat loss. If needed, consider adding extra insulation to improve your home's energy efficiency. Additionally, seal any gaps or cracks around doors and windows using weatherstripping or caulking to keep cold air out and warm air in. Installing thermal curtains or window film can further enhance your home's insulation and help reduce heat loss through windows.

Maintaining the Heating System

Your heating system is crucial during the winter months, so ensure it's in good working condition. Schedule a professional inspection of your furnace or heating system to identify and address any potential issues. Regularly replace or clean air filters to maintain proper airflow and energy efficiency. Consider investing in a programmable thermostat to regulate indoor temperatures effectively and save on heating costs.

Chimney and Fireplace Safety

If you have a chimney or fireplace, prioritize safety during the winter season. Have your chimney professionally inspected and cleaned before winter to prevent potential fire hazards. Ensure the damper is functioning correctly to prevent drafts when the fireplace is not in use. Always clean out any ash and debris from the fireplace to maintain a safe and efficient heating source.

Winterizing Outdoor Spaces

Protecting your outdoor spaces and equipment from winter damage is equally important. As temperatures drop, turn off outdoor faucets and drain the water to prevent freezing and bursting pipes. Store garden hoses indoors to prevent them from freezing and becoming brittle. Clearing leaves and debris from gutters is essential to prevent ice dams and water damage to your property.

Emergency Preparedness

Winter storms can sometimes lead to power outages and emergencies, so it's vital to be prepared. Assemble an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, bottled water, blankets, and a first-aid kit. Consider investing in a portable generator to provide electricity during power outages. Establish a communication plan with family members or neighbors to stay connected and informed during emergencies.

Snow Removal and Deicing

During and after snowfall, keeping pathways safe and accessible is crucial. Keep snow shovels, ice melt, and rock salt readily available for snow removal and deicing. If you have a large property or anticipate heavy snowfall, consider hiring a snow removal service to efficiently clear pathways and driveways.

Preparing your home for winter storms in the Northeast is essential to ensure safety, comfort, and peace of mind throughout the cold season. Weatherproof your home, maintain your heating system, and prioritize chimney and fireplace safety. Winterize outdoor spaces, create an emergency preparedness plan, and equip yourself with the necessary tools for snow removal and deicing. By following this comprehensive winter storm survival guide, you'll be well-prepared to face the challenges of winter and keep your home and loved ones safe and secure.

Identifying Fire Risk Factors for Businesses to Prevent Revenue Loss

8/14/2023 (Permalink)

Investing in high-quality fire safety equipment is a proactive measure that can save businesses from significant losses.

As a home or property owner, protecting your investment is paramount. However, for businesses, the stakes are even higher. A fire incident can have devastating consequences, leading to significant revenue loss, property damage, and potential disruption of operations. In this blog, we will explore essential fire risk factors that businesses should be aware of to prevent revenue loss and secure their future.

1. Electrical Hazards

One of the leading causes of commercial fires is electrical hazards. Overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, and electrical equipment malfunctions can spark fires without warning. Business owners should ensure that their electrical systems are up-to-date and compliant with safety regulations. Regular inspections by certified electricians can help identify potential hazards and prevent revenue loss due to electrical fires.

2. Fire Safety Equipment

Investing in high-quality fire safety equipment is a proactive measure that can save businesses from significant losses. Fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, and fire alarms are indispensable tools in mitigating fire damage. Regular maintenance and testing of these systems are crucial to ensure their effectiveness during emergencies.

3. Human Error

Human error is an unfortunate but common factor contributing to commercial fires. Employees' awareness of fire safety protocols is vital for preventing accidents. Conducting regular fire safety training, evacuation drills, and providing clear instructions on how to handle potential fire hazards can significantly reduce the risk of fire incidents.

4. Flammable Materials and Chemicals

Many businesses deal with flammable materials and chemicals, which can pose a serious fire risk if mishandled or stored improperly. It's essential for business owners to establish strict protocols for the storage and handling of such materials. Ensuring proper ventilation, fire-resistant storage containers, and staff training in handling hazardous substances are crucial steps to avoid revenue loss from fire damage.

5. HVAC Systems

HVAC systems, if not properly maintained, can become fire hazards. Dust accumulation, electrical malfunctions, and overheating components can lead to fire outbreaks. Regular inspections and maintenance of HVAC systems can prevent fire incidents and protect businesses from revenue loss.

6. Arson and Vandalism

Unfortunately, businesses are not immune to intentional acts of arson and vandalism. Adequate security measures, such as surveillance cameras, security patrols, and well-lit premises, can deter potential arsonists and vandals, safeguarding the business from intentional fire damage.

7. Smoking Policies

If your business allows smoking on the premises, enforcing strict smoking policies is crucial. Carelessly discarded cigarette butts can easily ignite fires, leading to devastating consequences. Designated smoking areas with fire-resistant receptacles should be established to reduce the risk of fire incidents.

Preventing revenue loss due to fire damage requires vigilance, proactive measures, and a commitment to fire safety. By identifying and addressing the fire risk factors mentioned in this article, businesses can significantly reduce the likelihood of fire incidents. Implementing a comprehensive fire safety plan, investing in quality fire safety equipment, and providing staff training can go a long way in protecting your business and securing its future. Remember, preparedness is key to minimizing potential losses and ensuring the safety of your business and all its stakeholders.

How to Save Water-Damaged Papers and Photos: Essential Tips for Document Restoration

7/18/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can wreak havoc on our cherished possessions, especially important documents, photographs, and other paper-based items. Whether it's a result of a flood, a leak, or an accidental spill, knowing how to salvage water-damaged papers and photos is crucial to preserving precious memories and valuable records. In this blog, we will provide you with essential tips and techniques for restoring water-damaged papers and photos effectively.

Act Quickly

Time is of the essence when dealing with water-damaged papers and photos. The longer they remain submerged or exposed to moisture, the more difficult the restoration process becomes. Act promptly to minimize the potential damage.

Handle with Care

When retrieving water-damaged papers and photos, handle them with extreme care to avoid further deterioration. Use gloves to protect the items from oils and contaminants on your hands. Avoid touching the surfaces as much as possible.

Separate and Sort

Gently separate the wet papers and photos, and sort them into categories based on their condition and level of damage. Group similar items together for easier organization and restoration.

Dry Flat

Place the wet papers and photos on a clean, flat surface to dry. Avoid stacking them or using high heat sources like hairdryers or heaters, as these can cause further damage. Instead, opt for natural air drying in a well-ventilated area.

Use Blotting and Absorbent Materials

To remove excess moisture from papers and photos, lightly blot them with absorbent materials like clean, white towels or unprinted newsprint. Press gently to draw out the water without applying too much pressure.

Freeze Time-Sensitive Materials

If you have valuable or time-sensitive items like books or delicate photographs, consider freezing them to halt further deterioration. Freezing can buy you some time until you can seek professional assistance for proper restoration.

Rinse Off Contaminants

If your papers or photos are contaminated with dirty or muddy water, gently rinse them with clean, cold water. Use a soft spray or submerge them briefly to remove the contaminants. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, as it can cause additional damage.

Seek Professional Assistance

For valuable or irreplaceable documents and photos, it's advisable to seek professional help from disaster restoration experts specializing in document restoration. They have the expertise, equipment, and techniques to handle delicate items and ensure the best possible restoration outcome.

Digitize for Future Preservation

Consider digitizing your important papers and photos as a preventive measure against future water damage. Create digital copies or scan your documents and store them securely in multiple locations, such as cloud storage or external hard drives.

Consult Your Insurance Provider

If the water damage is significant or covered by your insurance policy, contact your insurance provider to initiate a claim. They can guide you through the necessary documentation and provide assistance for restoration services if required.

Water-damaged papers and photos hold sentimental and sometimes historical value. By acting quickly, handling them with care, and following the proper restoration techniques mentioned above, you can increase the chances of salvaging these important items. However, it's important to understand the limitations of DIY restoration and to seek professional assistance when dealing with valuable or irreplaceable documents and photographs. Remember, the key is to act swiftly and prioritize the preservation of your cherished memories and vital records.

Storm Shutters: Are They Worth the Investment for Your Home?

6/11/2023 (Permalink)

As a disaster restoration company, we know the importance of preparing your home for severe weather conditions. One common question that homeowners ask is whether they should add storm shutters to their homes. In this blog, we'll go over the pros and cons of storm shutters to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Storm Shutters

One of the main benefits of storm shutters is that they can help protect your home from wind, rain, and flying debris during severe weather conditions. This can help prevent damage to your windows, doors, and other vulnerable areas of your home. Additionally, storm shutters can help reduce the amount of sunlight and heat that enters your home, which can improve energy efficiency and lower your utility bills.

Cons of Storm Shutters

One of the main drawbacks of storm shutters is that they can be expensive to install, especially if you have a large home or multiple windows and doors. Additionally, storm shutters can be heavy and difficult to install and remove, which can be a challenge for some homeowners. Finally, some homeowners may not like the aesthetic look of storm shutters on their home, especially if they prefer a certain architectural style or design.

Factors to Consider

When deciding whether to add storm shutters to your home, there are several factors to consider. These include the location of your home, the type of severe weather conditions you typically experience, and your budget. If you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes, tornadoes, or other severe weather conditions, storm shutters may be a wise investment to protect your home and family. Additionally, if you have a large budget and are willing to invest in high-quality storm shutters, they may be a good option for your home.

Alternatives to Storm Shutters

If you decide that storm shutters are not the right option for your home, there are several alternatives to consider. These include impact-resistant windows and doors, which are designed to withstand severe weather conditions and flying debris. Additionally, you can reinforce your windows and doors with shutters or plywood to provide temporary protection during severe weather conditions.

In conclusion, adding storm shutters to your home can be a good investment to protect your home and family during severe weather conditions. However, there are several factors to consider before making a decision, including your budget, the location of your home, and your personal preferences. If you need help preparing your home for severe weather conditions, our team at SERVPRO of Scarsdale/Mount Vernon is here to help with disaster restoration services. Contact us today to learn more.

Leaking Roof? Here's How Long It Takes for Mold to Develop

5/16/2023 (Permalink)

Mold growth can be a significant issue for homeowners with a leaking roof.

As a disaster restoration company, we understand that water damage can be a nightmare for homeowners. One of the most common issues that arise with water damage is mold growth. Mold can be hazardous to your home's structure and cause unpleasant odors, so it's important to understand how long it takes for mold to develop and what to do if it does develop.

How long does it take for mold to develop in a leaking roof?

The answer to this question varies based on several factors. The first and most crucial factor is the amount of water exposure. If your roof has been leaking for a long time, mold can develop within 24 to 48 hours. However, if the water exposure is limited, it can take several days or even weeks for mold to develop.

The second factor is the temperature and humidity levels of your attic. Mold grows best in warm and humid environments. If your attic has poor ventilation, the temperature and humidity levels can quickly rise, providing an ideal environment for mold growth.

Lastly, the type of materials in your attic can also contribute to the rate of mold growth. Organic materials such as wood, paper, and insulation are particularly susceptible to mold growth. So, if your attic has a lot of organic materials, it can speed up the mold growth process.

What to do if mold develops in your attic?

If you discover mold in your attic, it's essential to take immediate action to prevent further growth and potential structural damage. Here are the steps you should take:

Identify the source of the moisture: The first step in addressing mold growth is to identify the source of the moisture. In this case, it's likely a leaking roof or poor ventilation. Addressing the root cause of the moisture is critical to prevent further mold growth.

Consult a professional: Mold growth can be hazardous to your health and cause structural damage to your home. It's best to consult a professional disaster restoration company like SERVPRO of Scarsdale/Mount Vernon to assess the extent of the damage and recommend the appropriate action.

Remove the mold: The next step is to remove the mold. This process can be challenging and dangerous, which is why it's best to leave it to the professionals. They will use specialized equipment and techniques to remove the mold safely and effectively.

Repair the source of the moisture: After the mold has been removed, it's essential to repair the source of the moisture to prevent further mold growth. This may involve fixing a leaking roof or improving ventilation.

Prevent future mold growth: Finally, it's crucial to take steps to prevent future mold growth. This can include regular inspections of your attic and roof, addressing any water damage promptly, and improving ventilation.

In conclusion, mold growth can be a significant issue for homeowners with a leaking roof. The rate of mold growth can vary based on several factors, including the amount of water exposure, temperature, humidity levels, and the materials in your attic. If you discover mold growth in your attic, it's essential to take immediate action to prevent further growth and potential structural damage. Consulting a professional disaster restoration company is the best course of action to address mold growth safely and effectively.

7 Essential Steps to File an Insurance Claim After a Home Fire

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

Filing an insurance claim is one of the essential steps you need to take after a fire.

Experiencing a home fire can be an overwhelming and devastating event, leaving you with damages that require a lot of time and money to restore. This is where having a comprehensive insurance policy comes in. Filing an insurance claim is one of the essential steps you need to take after a fire to recover some of the losses. In this blog, we'll go over the steps to take when filing an insurance claim after a home fire.

Contact Your Insurance Company

The first thing you should do after a fire is to contact your insurance company. Your insurer will assign a claim adjuster who will help you through the claims process. Provide them with the necessary information, including the date of the fire, the extent of damage, and your policy number.

Document the Damage

Documenting the damage caused by the fire is a crucial step in the claims process. Take photos and videos of the damaged property and inventory, including any valuable items that may have been lost in the fire. This documentation will help your insurer to determine the extent of the damage and provide the necessary compensation.

Make Temporary Repairs

Make temporary repairs to your home to prevent further damage. Cover any holes in the roof or walls and board up broken windows or doors. These temporary repairs will help protect your property and prevent any further damage from occurring.

Obtain Repair Estimates

Obtain repair estimates from licensed contractors or restoration companies. These estimates should cover the costs of repairing and restoring your property, including any structural damage, water damage, or smoke damage.

Review Your Policy

Review your insurance policy to understand the coverage you have and the limits of your policy. Knowing your policy will help you understand what expenses are covered and the amount of compensation you can expect to receive.

Submit Your Claim

Submit your insurance claim to your insurer along with all the necessary documentation, including the repair estimates and any receipts for temporary repairs. Your insurance company will then review the claim and provide compensation based on the policy coverage.

Follow-Up on Your Claim

Follow up with your insurer to ensure that your claim is being processed and that you receive compensation promptly. Keep track of all communication with your insurance company, including any phone calls or emails.

In conclusion, filing an insurance claim after a home fire can be a complicated and stressful process. However, by following these steps and working with your insurance company, you can recover some of the losses and restore your property back to its original condition. Remember to document the damage, make temporary repairs, obtain repair estimates, review your policy, submit your claim, and follow up with your insurer. With patience and persistence, you can successfully file an insurance claim and restore your home after a fire.

6 Important Steps to Creating a Business Continuity Plan

3/13/2023 (Permalink)

Business continuity planning is a way to help you recover from unexpected disruptions to your operations.

Business continuity planning is an essential element in the risk management process. It's a way to ensure that your business can recover quickly and effectively from unexpected disruptions. There are many factors that should be considered when creating a business continuity plan, which will vary depending on the type and size of your organization. In this blog post, we'll discuss some of the basic steps for developing a continuity plan for your business and how it will help keep your company up and running during times of crisis.

Assemble a Business Continuity Team

Before you begin, it's important to assemble a Business Continuity Team. This team should include members from all departments and levels of your organization. This is because each department has unique needs during an emergency situation and each person on the team will have different responsibilities based on their role within the company.

Prioritize the safety of your employees

Safety is the most important aspect of business continuity planning. A plan that leaves your employees in danger is no plan at all.

In order for your plan to be effective and successful, you need to ensure that everyone involved understands how it will affect them and what they need to do if there's an emergency.

Identify your risks

Identifying your risks is the first step to creating a business continuity plan. Although it may seem like an overwhelming task, it's important to take time and think through all of the potential risks that could impact your business. You should consider:

• What are the possible risks that our business might face?
• What are the possible consequences of each risk?
• How likely is it that these risks will occur? (Consider both external factors and internal conditions.)
• How much money would be lost if these risks were realized?

Determine critical activities needed to run your business

The next step in creating a business continuity plan is to determine what activities are critical for your business. Critical activities are those that, if interrupted or delayed, could cause severe financial loss and/or harm to the business in some form. Critical activities should be listed in order of importance, starting with the most critical activity and working down the list until all of them are identified.

Create a Continuity Plan for each risk

Once you've identified the risks that could affect your business, it's time to create a plan of action for each and every one. The first step is to determine how likely the risk is and how severe its impact would be if it were to occur. Also consider whether there are any steps you can take now (i.e., purchasing insurance) that will reduce or eliminate the likelihood of said event taking place in the future. Then, create a plan of action for each individual risk. This might be time-consuming but will ensure that you are prepared for anything and everything.

Test the plan and update it regularly

The best way to make sure your business continuity plan is up to date is to test it at least once a year. If you make changes to your business or add new technology, then update the plan accordingly. You should also train employees on how they should respond in an emergency and what they need to do if they are affected by an emergency themselves.

Business continuity planning can help you get back on track quickly

Business continuity planning is a way to help you recover from unexpected disruptions to your operations. It's important because it can help prevent problems and save money, as well as ensure that your business continues to run smoothly in spite of any challenges that might arise.

Business continuity planning is a process that takes time and effort to complete, but it's worth the investment. If you want your business to continue operating in an emergency situation, then you need a plan in place. The key is to take it slow and make sure you're doing everything right before moving on to the next step. You'll also want to make sure that everyone involved understands what they need from each other so that when something does happen they know exactly what steps they should take next!

The 4 Most Common Types of Mold

2/10/2023 (Permalink)

Common Types of Mold are important

Mold growth is a common problem for homeowners. Not only does it make your home smell bad, but it can also cause significant damage to your home.

Mold spores are everywhere. They're in the air, on surfaces, and on your skin. They're even in the food you eat. Mold spores can easily spread throughout a home. When mold spores land on a damp or wet surface, they begin to grow into colonies which are identified by their color and texture.

There are over 100,000 different species of mold, which means there are many types to watch out for. You'll most often see one of these four types in your home:

Stachybotrys atra

Stachybotrys atra, also known as black mold, is a type of fungus that thrives on plant-based materials. It has a slimy texture and can be black or dark green in color. This type of mold is known for being difficult to discover because it's usually hidden within walls or ceilings--and once you spot it, you'll want to get rid of it right away!

Stachybotrys atra often grows in homes or businesses that have suffered from some type of water loss such as a leak or a flood. If you see this type of mold in your home, call a professional immediately so they can remove it before it spreads throughout the structure.

Cladosporium

Cladosporium is a common type of mold. It appears as black scattered dots at first, then appears green once the patches become larger. It's often found in bathrooms but can also grow on wallboard and insulation.

Aspergillus

Aspergillus is a common type of mold that often grows outside. It is often times found growing on food, on leaves, or in soil. Aspergillus can be black with white and yellow spots

Alternaria

Alternaria is a common type of mold that can be found in homes. It's usually brown, grey, or olive-colored and looks like thick strands of hair. It usually thrives outside. but is often found in your attic, basement, or crawl space.

If you see any of these types of mold in your home, call a professional to remove it.

If you see any of the four most common types of mold in your home, it's time to call a professional. Mold can cause significant property damage and even more expensive repairs if left untreated. If you have any doubts about whether or not you have a mold problem, don't hesitate to contact our SERVPRO of Scarsdale/Mount Vernon team today!

If you're worried about mold in your home, it's important to take action immediately. Mold can cause significant property damage if it grows unchecked for too long. If you see any of these types of mold growing on surfaces in your home or office building, call professionals who know how to get rid of them safely.

Emergency Kit Necessities

1/23/2023 (Permalink)

We hope this article has given you some ideas for what to include in your own emergency kit.

Severe weather can be unpredictable events and it can be difficult to say how severe they will be. They can cause severe flooding, property damage, and even death. It's important to be prepared for a storm so that you're ready if one hits your area. This article will discuss some of the most important aspects of your emergency kit.

Flashlights

Flashlights are an important tool for finding your way around in the dark. They can also be used to signal for help or to find things you've lost.

Extra Batteries

Batteries are a must for any emergency kit. In addition to flashlights, radios and other electronic devices will also need them. You may also want to consider storing backup chargers for your cell phone in your kit too so that you can keep your devices charged up when power is out. 

Battery Powered Radio

A battery-powered radio is another crucial piece to your emergency kit. You'll want to listen to local news updates and emergency broadcasts, as well as your local radio station for updates. If you have access to NOAA weather radio, that's another resource that can be useful during a hurricane. And if you live in an area with a fire department that uses a paging system in emergencies like these, you can use this resource as well.

Non-perishable Food and Water

Ensure you have enough nonperishable food and water to sustain you and your family for at least three days. This should give you enough time for things to calm down after the storm has passed.

Water is best stored in sealed containers with tight lids so that it doesn't evaporate or spill out. Food should be kept in cool, dry locations where there is little risk of being exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight (so no leaving your emergency kit outside).

Please remember that pets need food as well! Be sure to include pet supplies like food, bowls, and leashes for them as well.

Blankets

Blankets are one of the most important items in an emergency kit. They can be used for sleeping or as a blanket, but you may also want to include them if you live in a cold climate.

Make sure you have enough blankets for everyone in your family or group before putting together an emergency kit! 

Portable Phone Chargers

If you are without power and would like to charge your phone, it's important to have a battery-powered charger on hand. Ideally, this should be a portable power bank or car charger, which can charge your phone while you are away from home.

Prescription Medications

Prescription medications are a must. Make sure to have enough medication for at least 3 days, and make sure you have a copy of your prescription in case your pharmacy doesn’t have the one you need. Make sure the medications are in their original containers with labels intact, that they haven’t expired, and that they are properly stored in airtight containers (they can lose potency quickly when exposed to heat and humidity). If possible, also include a list of all current medications (with dosages) and instructions on how to take each medication.

First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is an essential part of any emergency kit. It should be easy to carry, so don't forget to pack it in your go bag.

It's important that the first aid kit be well stocked with supplies that will help you treat minor injuries and illnesses until professional medical assistance can be reached. The following items are recommended:

• Bandages (various sizes)
• Gauze pads and rolls
• Disinfectant wipes or spray bottles (baby wipes are great for cleaning wounds)
• Antiseptic ointment - e.g., Neosporin or bacitracin
• Sterile gauze sponges or cotton balls
• Emergency tape/bandage strips
• Tweezers - for removing splinters and other small objects

Whether you're in the path of a storm or not, it's important to be prepared for emergency situations. In case of a hurricane, flood, or another natural disaster that causes damage to your home and access to shops is cut off for more than 48 hours, you'll want to have an emergency kit on hand.

We hope this article has given you some ideas for what to include in your own emergency kit. If a storm comes through and damages your Scarsdale home, give SERVPRO of Scarsdale/Mount Vernon a call! We will help you get back on your feet quickly.

The Best Fire-Extinguishing Method

12/28/2022 (Permalink)

Know how to put out a fire with a fire extinguisher

The Best Fire-Extinguishing Method

Although fire extinguishers are designed to put out fires, it is important that you know how to use them effectively. Knowing which type of fire extinguisher will work best for your situation is also important. Below you will find the most common types of fire extinguishers, as well as instructions on how they can be used.

Know the Fire Type

While it’s easy to think of fire extinguishers as a catchall solution for all types of fires, they are actually only effective for certain types of fires. So knowing the type of fire you are dealing with is critical.

Fire Extinguisher Class A

Extinguisher Class A is used for ordinary combustibles, such as paper and wood. This is the most common type of fire extinguisher and can be found in a majority of homes.

Fire Extinguisher Class B

Extinguisher Class B is used for flammable liquids, such as gas or oil. It's important to know that you should never use water on this type of fire because it will spread the liquid further. Instead, use foam or dry chemical extinguishers designed specifically for class B fires.

Fire Extinguisher Class C

Extinguisher Class C is used for electrical fires (including fires caused by lightning strikes). This type of extinguisher contains a conductive material that makes it safe to use around electricity without shocking yourself when discharged onto an electrical source or wire that has shorted out due to an electrical malfunction or lightning strike nearby your home

Fire Extinguisher Class D

A D-class fire extinguisher is used on fires involving combustible metals, such as lithium, potassium, sodium, and magnesium. It also works on fires involving flammable metals like zinc and aluminum.

A common mistake that people make with these types of fires is trying to smother them with a blanket or similar object. This will only make the situation worse; covering the material can cause it to explode violently and propel shrapnel at you or others nearby. Instead of attempting to prevent oxygen from reaching your metal fire by cutting off its air supply (which doesn't really work anyway), spray it down with an appropriate amount of water using a hose or bucket until all visible flames have been extinguished. Once you've killed off the flames in your metal fire's immediate vicinity, check for any embers still burning before leaving; if there are any leftovers they can reignite once exposed again so stay vigilant!

Fire Extinguisher Class K

Class K fire extinguishers are designed for use on grease fires. They should not be used on electrical fires or burning liquids. The best way to put out a kitchen grease fire is by smothering it with baking soda and water, which you can find in the cabinet above your stove.

If you are ever faced with a fire, having the right tools to extinguish it is important for your safety. You should know how to use a fire extinguisher correctly.

A fire can be caused by many things: electrical issues, smoking materials, and kitchen accidents are just some examples of ways that a fire starts. When you see smoke or notice flames in the home, keep calm and assess the situation. If there’s an exit nearby, get out immediately while calling 911 from a safe distance away from the house. If there isn't an exit nearby, make sure everyone knows what they're supposed to do if there's an emergency (i.e., get low on their hands so as not to cause burns when crawling under furniture).

If your home catches on fire, regardless of the reason, SERVPRO of Scarsdale/Mount Vernon can help restore your Scarsdale property to its original, preloss condition. Give us a call!