Recent Fire Damage Posts

Fire Season is Coming

4/7/2022 (Permalink)

Burnt Stove Damaged stove which was the source of how this house fire occurred

Fire Season is just a few months away.  As the weather in the Bay Area becomes warmer and drier, the chances of a home fire increases as well.  It’s important to do a good preventative check around the house, to remove broken appliances, correct outlets with too much plugged in, and worn down wires.  Even with such preventative measures, if a home fire begins, you must act quickly, calmly, and safely as best as you can.

If a Fire Starts:

  • Use a fire extinguisher. Practicing with your family on the proper use of one ahead of time could make a huge difference, in saving lives, damage to the home, and money.
  • If the fire catches on your person (clothes, etc.) STOP, DROP, AND ROLL.
  • If the fire is uncontrollable, get out of the house immediately, and call 9-1-1. Do not go back to gather any belongings.
  • Important to use stairs, not an elevator, during a fire. A fire can cause the electricity to go out in a building.  The elevator quarry can fill up quickly with smoke.
  • Do not open any doors that are warm to the touch. What’s on the other side could be a matter of life or death.
  • If stuck near a window where you can’t safely escape, open it up, wave the brightest, most colorful cloth you can get your hands on, or a flashlight, as a signal for help.
  • If you are trapped inside, close doors around you, placing wet towels at the bottom of the door, call 9-1-1, and tell the operator where you are located.

After the Fire

After a fire, it’s crucial that you contact SERVPRO OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO/ SAN BRUNO, the professional fire damage restoration company in your area.  Don’t try cleaning up the damage on your own, because you could make things worse.  We are highly trained, fully equipped, and ready to properly restore your home - "Like it never even happened."

Trust the experts, call/text us today at 650-794-1000 or 650-794-1001, or email us at SERVPRO9541@att.net.

Planning in Case of Fire

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

fire damage collage SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno specializes in Fire and Water Damage Restoration.

It’s important to stay as calm as possible when a fire starts in your home.  Panicking frantically only wastes time from putting it out, and making sure your family is out safely.  Timing is everything, especially when a fire starts in your home.  Practice safety procedures, as well as discuss the following topics with your loved ones, so that everyone is informed of what to do in case the unfortunate happens:

  • For small Pan Fires- Cover them with Lids;
  • For Oven/ Microwave Fires - Turn Off Appliance;
  • For Grease Fires-Apply Baking Soda or Salt.  DO NOT USE WATER OR FLOUR TO PUT OUT!  This may help spread the fire further.
  • Know how to Point and Use a Fire Extinguisher safely;
  • Call 9-1-1 Immediately;
  • If uncontrollable, yell, "FIRE!" and get out as soon as possible;
  • Use Stairs, Leaving through Doors, Windows or Fire Escapes safely, and quickly;
  • Remain low if you must move through Heavy Smoke, closing doors behind you as you pass through them;
  • Leave your things and Save Yourself, Family and Others;
  • Do not open doors that are Warm or Hot to the Touch, flames may be on the other side that you can’t get through;
  • If Trapped, Stay in the Room with the Door Closed, placing a Wet Towel under the Door;
  • To help with breathing, protect your mouth and nose with a Wet Towel.

Call or Text  SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno with questions on Fire Loss and Damage Restoration at 650-794-1000. We are here for you.

After the Fire, Who’s going to Help Clean Up?

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

fire clean up After this Property Fire, SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno removed all the context inside, working with the owner to separate, throwaway

Just been through a fire?  Is your place in disarray, covered in soot and debris everywhere?  Feeling overwhelmed of where to begin?  SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno can help!

When called for Fire Damage Clean Up, SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno scours the entire structure of Soot and Debris left behind.  Floors, Ceilings, Windows, Doors and Walls are just the beginning of what we clean of the property structure.  We are also able to clean up salvageable content within the house – Sofas, dining and living room furniture, to small and large appliances.  All of this cleanup calls for expert methods in order for them to return to their normal state, "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno are the leading professionals when it comes to Asset Cleaning of Fire, Soot and Smoke.  We take the necessary steps to suitably deodorize and cleanse your property and its contents.

Call or Text Us Now at 650-794-1000 for more Information on Fire Damage Clean Up!

Bay Area Protein Fires

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

Fire burned kitchen Don’t let your turkey (or anything else!) burn this holiday season. Always be cautious and attentive while cooking.

With the holidays fast approaching, we look forward to gathering with our loved ones, and enjoying some really great food.  It’s a time to come together, and appreciate each other’s company.  Rather than going out to eat, many folks will celebrate at home, preparing their special meals for their families.  If this is your plan this year, please make sure you follow safe protocol, so no “Protein Fires” ruin your celebration!

What is a Protein Fire?

A Protein Fire often begins, when meat, poultry or fish is burned during the cooking process.  Once the blaze hits these foods, a yellowish-amber colored residue glooms in the air, sticking to surfaces within the structure (e.g. walls, cabinets, counters, etc..)  In addition to this visual damage, there is also invisible damage, which attributes to a very strong stench.  This offensive odor is so bad, even the most thorough of home cleanings will not remove it the smell.

SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno has the tools and training to properly clean your home of unwanted residue and extreme odor after a Protein Fire.  Give us a call or text if you have questions or concerns on what to do if you experience a protein fire at 1-650-794-1000.

After a Fire – Can we still eat that?

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

food in a fire It is not recommended to eat foods that were affected in a fire. Inventory, then dispose of them quickly to avoid getting you and your family sick.

After a fire, it’s common to want to salvage your belongings as much as possible, and that includes food.  But the question remains:  Can that still be eaten?  Is it safe?  It barely got touched from the flames!  The truth of the matter is, opened or unopened, fires can contaminate all effects in a property.  Consuming food that was onsite and within close contact of a structural fire is unsafe to eat.

  • Water and extinguishers used to put fires out carry toxic chemicals that are unsafe to digest;
  • Fumes from smoke is a big indicator to throw it out;
  • Soot can easily land on surfaces of food, whether packaged fresh and sealed, or canned and jarred.

So many factors of a fire easily contribute to an unsafe environment.  Be vigilant in your clean up, as smolder, ash, poisonous vapors, as well as other impurities infiltrate the air, which eventually ruins the food.  Even sealed foods rot soon after a fire, because the heat could have caused the foods to cook itself in its jar or can.

If you have questions or need assistance regarding a fire loss, give SERVPRO of South San Francisco City / San Bruno a call or text us at 650-794-1000.  We are here to help!

Safety Tips for Your Family in Case of Fire

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

Neighborhood fire Plan ahead so that your family is prepared in case of an emergency.

We at SERVPRO of South San Francisco City / San Bruno cannot stress more the necessity of being prepared in the case of an unforeseen disaster.  The following are steps that you and your family should take if the unexpected occurs:

  • Teach everyone how to call 9-1-1 on their phones:
    • Explain that the operator will need their location information;
    • Remind them to be as clear as possible so that the operator can understand them.
  • Practice Stop, Drop and Roll with all family members;
  • Smoke alarms:
    • Educate everyone in the family what the purpose of smoke alarms is;
    • Test them regularly, ensuring they work accurately;
    • Make sure they know how to recognize the sound they make when they go off;
  • Blueprint an escape route from every room so that everyone gets out safe and sound, and then practice it often;
  • Designate a “safe place” to gather outside the home;
  • Strategize how everyone will get in touch with each other in case of separation.

SERVPRO of South San Francisco City / San Bruno specializes in Emergency Fire Damage Restoration Services.  Call us with any questions regarding Fire Losses and Fire Damage Restoration Services at 650-794-1000.   We are always here to help!

Smoke and Soot

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Soot Smoke and soot damage, after a house fire that started in the garage, and spread further into the home.

After a fire, smoke and soot can leave behind a very hostile living environment.  They can penetrate so many surfaces, resulting in unseen damages and concealed stench. Our experts examine all affected areas, evaluating the extent of the loss, to acquire a complete and thorough strategy of getting things back to normal.

Smoke and Soot Facts:

Hot smoke:

  • Rises, into the cooler levels of a building;
  • Travels around plumbing systems, trickling into cavities used by pipes, to go from floor to floor; and
  • Depending on the type of smoke, can significantly disturb the restoration strategy.

Types of Smoke

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

  • Low heat, burning, strong odor, sticky, staining.
  • Smoke webs 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.

We’re Here to Help

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific condition.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  In addition, we take care and consideration as needed of you, our customers, because of the trauma experienced when dealing with such an event.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?  Call Us Today 1-650-794-1000.

Steps to Deodorizing Your Home Using Thermal Fogging After Fire Damage

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

Photo shows Thermal Fogging in process SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno offers Thermal Fogging for Deodorizing Homes and Business affected by Fire Damage.

Fire losses require the use of sophisticated equipment and practices to recover your home or business. Despite how overwhelming structure fires can be, we have experienced and knowledgeable professionals working to provide efficient mitigation to reduce property loss. While debris removal, meticulous demolition, and deep cleanings are vital elements of fire recovery, it is also critical to address the widespread harsh odors that can also spread throughout the property. 

Deodorization is a critical step in the restoration process of fire damage to homes and businesses. Smoke molecules and the combustion of plastics and other organic materials can lead to a blend of harsh odors concentrated throughout the entire household, being the strongest in the area where the fire began and lessening the greater the distance away. We have multiple deodorizing tools that can reduce or eliminate noxious scents, and one of the most heavily used of these is our thermal fogger. 

Fogging machines are a favored choice of our SERVPRO professionals for removing smoke odors because the generated vapor can penetrate difficult areas to reach and penetrate affected surfaces as well.  Deodorizing compounds exist in many pleasant scents or odorless products that get rapidly heated by the machine to produce fog. When in contact with smoke and odor molecules, these deodorizing agents can neutralize the compounds. 

Multiple obstacles exist for homeowners after a fire loss incident, but our SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno team can help. With the use of sophisticated tools like our thermal fogging machines, we can make fire emergencies, “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today at 650-794-1000 

San Bruno, CA Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

Photo shows soot residue with hand print on a Kitchen Ceiling SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno provides deep cleaning to walls, ceilings and floors affected by fire damage.

Smoke and soot can be 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 South San Francisco City/ San Bruno 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.  

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 quality trained staff with fire damage expertise 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 at 1-650-794-1000

Protein Fire in the Bay Area

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Image shows the result of a protein fire in the kitchen This Image shows the result of a Protein Fire in the Kitchen. The Fire was not put out immediately which caused more kitchen structure to burn.

The Protein Fire

Preparing and cooking food can be such a joy for some. There is nothing like preparing an amazing meal and seeing the looks on your family and friends faces as they enjoy the fruits of your labor. However sometimes either due to lack of experience or “too many irons in the fire” we burn the Turkey!

In the restoration industry we describe this as a “Protein fire.” Protein fires often involve the burning of meat, poultry or fish. Burning these foods leaves protein residues, which may be yellow or amber in color or  practically invisible, causing only slight discoloration of painted walls and cabinet surfaces.

Protein smoke odors, tend to be extremely pungent, so odor removal is usually the biggest problem in protein fires. Odors in protein fires cannot be controlled without thoroughly cleaning all surfaces contaminated with the greasy protein residue. Sometimes an entire home may require a thorough cleaning to help get rid of the smell.

SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno has the tools and training to properly clean your home if and when this problem arises.

Give us a call if you have questions or concerns on what to do if you experience a protein fire at 1-650-794-1000.

Food After a Fire in the Bay Area!

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Kitchen showing Smoke and Soot Damage caused by a Fire. This Kitchen was affected by an Electrical Fire. The Smoke and Soot can be seen throughout the Floor and Walls. All the Food had to be disposed.

What About My Food!

Many wonder what foods can be saved and eaten after a fire.  It's understandable to want to save as much as possible and not let foods go to waste.  However, it must be taken into account that foods, opened or unopened, do become contaminated by fires and can cause health risks.  

Unfortunately, not only can foods be affected by fire directly, but can also become affected by the water, chemicals, smoke and by heat damages caused by fires.  The toxic fumes from fires also contaminates the food.  Strong smoke odor or rotten food odor is a sign the food is no good.

The smoke, soot, toxic fumes along with other contaminates in the fire permeate through the air which taints the food.  The food can be fresh, packaged, sealed and even in the refrigerator or freezer and can still become contaminated because the seals are not all completely air tight.  Even canned foods, foods in jars, bottles can be affected by the heat of the fire causing the foods to slowly cook within which can be harmful to eat.   

It's not recommended to try and eat the foods to see if it's good or not.  It's highly recommended to throw away and dispose of foods that have been in or around a fire to avoid getting sick.

If you have questions or need assistance give SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno a call at 650-794-1000.  We are here to help!

First Steps to Getting Rid of Odor after a Fire!

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

This Photo shows the different Sources of a Fire Loss that can cause Odor to Permeate through a Home or Business.

The First Step to Getting Rid of Odor from a Fire!

If you recently had a Fire in your Home or Business and have a very strong Odor present along with Soot and Debris everywhere the First thing you want to do is remove the Source of the Fire.  Removing the First Source of the Fire, whether it be from an Electrical Fire, a Stove Top, Microwave Oven or even an Electrical Blanket, removing it will assist in getting rid of the Strong Odor Smell.

Of Course, removing all the other Burnt Items and Debris right away will also stop the lingering Odor permeating through the Home or Business. 

Depending Where and How the Fire Started, Once the Source and Burnt Debris are removed the Section that Caught Fire can be contained off with Plastic to stop the spread of that Odor.   

Special Deodorization Equipment can also be placed in the Home or Business to assist with the Odor from a Fire. 

Contact SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno for More Information on Fire Damage and Odor Control at 650-794-1000.  We are the Fire Damage Restoration Professionals!

Renters Insurance is encouraged in the Bay Area!

7/17/2018 (Permalink)

This Bay Area Residence had Personal Belongings affected by Fire, Soot and Water. As the First Responders the Cleaning was started right away!

Why should Tenants have a Renters Insurance Policy?

As a First Responder for Emergency Services in the Bay Area, we see first hand the effects that can be caused by Fire, Smoke and Water Damages.  Not only to the Property, but we see Personal Property and Valuable Assets that become Damaged, Broken, Sooty, Spoiled, Contaminated and even Crumbled.  

It can become very Expensive to come out of Pocket for the Cleaning, Repairing or Replacing of affected Personal Belongings.   Especially if a Renter has to be Displaced for a period of time due to the Property being Damaged and in need of Repair. 

Since most of the Bay Area are Renters it is Highly Recommended to have Renters Insurance!  It is Truly sad to say most Tenants do not have Renter's Insurance and are at a Loss. The Landlords or Homeowners Insurance Policy will not Cover the Tenants Personal Property or Displacement in the Event of Fire or Water Damage.  Having Renter's Insurance will ensure your Cleaning, Repairing, Replacement and Even Displacement Costs.

Call SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno if you have Personal Belongings or Property Affected by Fire or Water at 650-794-1000.  We are your First Responders!

What Happens to Food After a Fire?

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

This Food from the Bay Area has to be disposed. Food that is Opened and Exposed during a Fire is deemed non-salvageable and should be discarded.

Can Food be Saved After a Fire?

Many Customers ask if they can save and eat their food after a fire has happened in their home. Well, Unfortunately, we always recommend "NO", not to Eat or Save Food that has been involved or around a fire.   

Food can become contaminated and spoiled from the Fire's Excessive Heat and Soot becoming Air Borne with Gases and Particles spreading around the Home from the Fire.  The Food becomes non-salvageable and is recommended not to use, Especially any exposed and opened food products.   

When Food is determined to be discarded after a Fire it is best to keep an Inventory with Photos for documentation purposes.  

For More Information on Fire Mitigation Services Call SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno at 650-794-1000!

Removing Insulation After a Fire in the Bay Area

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

This Residential Home had Affected Insulation Removed after a Fire. The Soot and Smoke of the Fire Affected all the Insulation.

Why Remove Insulation After a Fire?

Unfortunately, when a fire strikes it not only burns and destroys its encircling environment, but also spreads and affects other surrounding areas with its soot and smoke.

When the Fires Soot and Smoke penetrates through the Walls that Fires Odor will permeate through the Structures Cavities.  Causing the Smoke Odors to retain in the Insulation that may possibly be within the Structures Cavities.  

Smoke Odor can be covered up; however, depending on the environments temperature the Smoke Odor can possibly come back after a period of time due to Smoke Affected Insulation. Smoke Odor is Invisible and the Insulation Fibers will hold onto that Smoke Odor.  It is recommended that after a Fire the Affected Insulation be removed and replaced during the Fire Restoration Process.  

For More Information on Fire Restoration contact SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno at 650-794-1000!

Fire Damage Board-Up in the Bay Area!

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

This Residential Home in the Bay Area had a Fire Loss. SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno provided the Board-Up to the Property.

Boarding-Up your Property after a Fire!

When a Fire Occurs to your Property the Windows and Doors can be Damaged leaving your Property Exposed and Vulnerable.  It is Very Important to Secure your Property to prevent Theft and Secondary Damages.  

It is Very Important to Complete the Board-Up Right Away.  Do not wait to have this Completed. Depending on the Circumstances of the Fire you may not be able to Stay at the Property and your Valuables will be left with no Protection. 

Boarding- Up Damaged Window and Door Openings will keep your Property Secure and Harder to Gain Entry from unwanted guests. Also, Keeping in mind Cleaning away any Fire Debris left in front of your Property will help assist in keeping the Attention Away from your Property.  

Call SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno right away at 650-794-1000! We are your 24/7 Emergency Service Provider! 

Fire Damage Clean Up in the Bay Area!

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

This Residential Property in South San Francisco Required Fire Damage Clean Up to the Garage. The Fire Department Piled Up the Contents and Debris.

What is Fire Damage Clean Up?

Did you recently have a Fire Loss to your Property?  Is there Soot and Debris all over the Place?  And you don't know where to Start to get the Property back together and cleaned up?  

Well Calling SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno can Help!  

Fire Damage Clean Up consists of Cleaning All the Soot and Debris from the Entire Properties Structure.  That is Cleaning everything from Floors to Ceilings, to every Window and Door within the Structure. Also, Cleaning all the Contents within the Structure, from Couches to Appliances.  There are many different Techniques used when performing the Clean Up, so calling in the Professionals is important.  

SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno Specialize in Cleaning Properties that have been affected by Fire, Soot and Smoke.  From sorting through Debris, Deodorizing and Cleaning Walls and Contents. We take the appropriate steps necessary to get the Cleaning done correctly and efficiently. 

Call Us Now at 650-794-1000 for more Information on Fire Damage Clean Up!

The Spread of Flying Embers

10/17/2017 (Permalink)

Flying Burning Embers can travel away from the main fire point by wind. The Burning Embers can settle and ignite another spreading fire.

Prepare to Defend against Flying Embers

Flying Embers can spread through the wind up to 1 mile or so.  The Embers traveling further from the main fire point are not only Flying, but are burning as well and waiting to settle.  Once the Burning Embers find its resting point they can cause more fire to ignite.  Landing in an area that has plenty of fuel to feed and spread more fire to a flammable home.  To reduce the spread of flames to your home or property start to prepare and defend against the Flying Burning Embers.

Defend your Home from these Burning Embers and Prepare with these simple tips:

  • Clear all Combustible Debris and Hazards around your Home
  • Keep Lawn and Landscaping Watered on a regular basis
  • Cut your Grass or Lawn Regularly
  • Clear Dead Tree's, Branches, Pine Needles and Dead Leafs that accumulate in Foundations, Under Decks and next to your Home
  • Clear the Roof and Gutters of Dead Leaves and any Debris
  • Invest in Fire Resistant Roofing
  • Use Fire Resistant Plants, Rocks and Stone Landscaping next to Structures
  • Secure your Homes Eaves and Soffits with Solid Barriers
  • Have your Vents Screened with Ember Resistant Mesh/ Covers
  • Pile and Store Firewood away from your Home
  • Consider Non-Combustible Shutters
  • Up-Grade Windows
  • Consider Heat Resistant Drapes or Curtains
  • Look into having your Home or Property be Fire Resistant from the Ground Up

We at SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno believe it is very important to protect your investment.  Count on us for assistance and call 650-794-1000.

When a Fire Starts in your Residential Home

5/24/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno specializes in Fire and Water Damage Restoration.

What do you do when a fire starts?

It can get pretty nerve racking when a fire starts, especially if you do not know what to do.  You can start to panic and waste precious time that is crucial during a fire.  It is extremely important to remember simple steps to ensure your safety along with your families and others during the start of a fire.

When a fire starts be prepared with these tips:

  • Know how to use/operate a Fire Extinguisher
  • Pan Fires- Place the Pan Lid over the small fire
  • Oven/ Microwave Fire- Turn Off and Close Door for small fires
  • Grease Fire-Apply Baking Soda or Salt- Do Not Add Water or Flour to the small fire!
  • Use a Water Hose or Buckets/Pots Full of Water to Extinguish a small/medium fire
  • Call 9-1-1 right away
  • Yell "Fire" and get out right away if fire is uncontrollable
  • Leave your things and Save Yourself, Family and Others
  • Use Stairs not Elevators
  • Exit through Doors, Windows or Fire Escapes right away
  • Never open doors that are Warm or Hot to the Touch
  • Stay Low if moving through Heavy Smoke and Close the Doors behind you
  • If Trapped Stay in the Room with the Door Closed and place a Wet Towel under the Door
  • Use a Wet Towel to help breath in Heavy Smoke
  • Call 9-1-1 Right Away

It is very important to understand and know when you are not able to control a fire.  Whether the fire is small or large know your capabilities and make wise decisions when trying to determine if you can put out a fire without the help of the Fire Department.  Time is of the essence when a fire strikes and safety is always a priority.

Contact  SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno with questions on Fire Losses and Fire Damage Restoration at 650-794-1000. We are here for you.

Did you have a Fire Loss in South San Francisco?

5/23/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno specializes in Residential and Commercial Fire Damage Restoration in the San Mateo County.

What to expect after a Fire


Experiencing a fire loss can be emotionally draining and stressful.  It may get difficult to stay focused and make the right decisions and you can become easily frustrated.  It is extremely important to be there for your loved ones and each other during their time of need, especially when experiencing this traumatic event.   It is very important to try and stay positive and know sometimes recovery can take some time, but will eventually get better. 


Steps to immediately recover after a fire:



  • Have all injuries treated by a medical professional

  • Stay calm and pace yourself

  • Let your family and friends know your safe

  • Speak with the Fire Department to know your home is safe to enter

  • Check your home and take many photos of every room

  • Contact your Insurance Company (if applicable)

  • Determine if your home is still livable

  • Come up with a cleaning plan for your home, contents and textiles

  • Start the Restoration Process

  • Begin building back your home 


When the immediate emergency is over and when you are ready the Healing Process can begin and all the pieces can be put back together again.   Contact SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno for more information on Fire Losses and the Fire Restoration Process at 650-794-1000.  We are always here to help.

Simple Fire Safety Tips for your Family

5/23/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno specializes in Emergency Fire Damage Restoration Services in the San Mateo County.

Prepare your family in the event of a home fire


It is extremely important to prepare your family from an unexpected fire in your home.  SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno wants to implement important fire safety tips, so you and your family will be better prepared in case an emergency fire situation occurs.  



  1. Install smoke alarms to the right number of rooms in your home

  2. Teach your family and children what smoke alarms do and how they sound

  3. Ensure your family knows how to escape from every room in the event of a fire

  4. Have a family meeting spot outside the home in case of an emergency

  5. Come up with a communication plan in the event you cannot find each other

  6. Test the smoke alarms and practice escaping every year

  7. Make sure your family and children know how to call 9-1-1

  8. Teach your family and children how to Stop, Drop and Roll


Contact SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno with any questions regarding Fire Losses and Fire Damage Restoration Services at 650-794-1000.   We are always here to help!

San Mateo County Residents: We Specialize in Smoke and Soot Cleanup

5/17/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South San Francisco City/ San Bruno specializes in Smoke and Soot Damage cleanup and remove Pervasive Odor in your San Mateo County 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 South San Francisco City/ San Bruno 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 – 650-794-1000

South San Francisco Smoke and Soot Cleanup

5/9/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your South San Francisco 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 South San Francisco City/ San Bruno 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 1-650-794-1000