The Holidays' are upon us!

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

The Holidays' are upon us! With that comes family, fun and unfortunately some fire hazards. Christmas trees account for hundreds of fires each year. Typically, shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters or matches start tree fires. Well-watered trees are not a problem. A dry and neglected tree can be.

Christmas trees account for hundreds of fires each year. Typically, shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters or matches start tree fires. Well-watered trees are not a problem. A dry and neglected tree can be. 

• Be sure to keep your tree watered so it doesn’t dry out, and if it does get rid of it ASAP.
• Make sure your tree is at least 3 feet from any type of heat source (fireplace, space heater, radiator, or candles).
• Read the instructions on your Christmas tree lights so you are not over the recommended amount to connect for safety.

And, let’s not forget our furry friends. They are part of the family too! Before you leave your Salem, NH home remember these items.

• Securely anchor your tree so it doesn’t tip over and fall causing harm to your pet
• Mistletoe and Holly are beautiful to decorate with but they are actually toxic to your four legged friend. You could always opt for artificial plants keeping the season bright and your pet safe
• Keep lights and ornaments out of your pets reach.

We want to wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season filled with joy, love and peace.

Sincerely,

SERVPRO® of Lawrence

Basic but Important Safety Tips

12/17/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.

Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

“Fire prevention and fire safety planning are two very different things,” said Gregg. “Fire prevention planning helps control or eliminate the causes of a fire. Fire safety planning helps prevent injury and loss of life when a fire does break out. To protect your family and your property, you need both.”

For more fire prevention and fire safety tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit our website. For more information on SERVPRO® of Lawrence, please contact Nicole Shepley at 978-688-2242 office@SERVPROoflawrence.com.

About SERVPRO® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Simple Fire Tips

12/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Lawrence is a restoration specialist that highlights the difference between fire prevention planning with fire safety planning. We have proudly served Lawrence, Methuen, and Dracut, MA for the last 40 years recover from fire damages to their home. 

The holidays are approaching and many families are finalizing plans for elaborate meals, get-togethers with friends, and decorating with festive lights. Amidst all this planning, SERVPRO® of Lawrence reminds homeowners that they may be overlooking the most crucial plan they can make—a fire safety plan.

“Each year, statistics show the incidence of home cooking and candle fires peaks during the holiday season. This tends to focus homeowners on fire prevention precautions—and that’s a good thing,” said Gregg White, owner of SERVPRO® of Lawrence. “But to truly protect your family from the dangers of a home fire, at the holidays and throughout the year, you need to start with a fire safety plan. Developing a fire safety plan and practicing it regularly with your family is the most important step you can take to help prevent a house fire from turning into a devastating tragedy.”

SERVPRO is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and their disaster response professionals know from experience how devastating a home fire can be. They also know that when fire causes a loss of life, there is no “remediation” possible. This is why SERVPRO has teamed up with the American Red Cross by supporting the ARC Disaster Responder program, and in particular the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign. As a Disaster Responder, SERVPRO pledges dollars and support in advance to help the ARC develop and distribute educational materials and respond immediately when they are needed. encourages all -area homeowners to follow these fire safety guidelines, developed by the ARC through their Home Fire Preparedness Campaign, to help minimize injury or loss of life due to a residential fire.

Install the right number of smoke alarms . Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.

Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.

Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.

Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.

Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire” to alert everyone they must get out.

Important and Easy Test

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Fire alarms when properly installed and maintained are a proven method to saving lives in the case of a fire, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Carbon monoxide and fire can make for a deadly duo, installing dual detectors makes it easier to protect yourself against both. Combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have sensing technologies that work together to detect fires and the odorless, colorless, tasteless gas known as CO – the silent killer. 

Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Follow this link for a complete 14 step outline for safely and effectively testing your fire/ smoke detectors. How do test a smoke detector.

In larger commercial buildings, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits some time saving and ease of use. These alarms do not need to be tested as often and are interconnected throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).

If you need assistance installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.

Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills. For more information on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO^® of Lawrence at 978-688-2242. Happily serving Methuen, Dracut, and Lawrence MA.

Summer Safety Fun

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

Fires are still a concern even after all this constant rain!!

SERVPRO of Lawrence always puts safety as our #1 priority, whether it's on the job site or in our backyards. Every year Americans look forward to summer vacations, camping, family reunions, picnics, and the Fourth of July. Summertime, however, also brings fires and injuries due to fireworks and outdoor grills. Annually more than 8,000 Americans are injured by fireworks and grill fires. More than half these injuries occur during the first week of July. USFA's National Fire Data Center estimates that yearly outside cooking grills cause more than 6,000 fires, over 5 fatalities, more than 170 injuries, and $35 million in property loss. 

Here are some Safety Fire Tips from SERVPRO of Lawrence:

Campfire Safety

• Build campfires where they will not spread, away from dry grass and leaves.

• Keep campfires small, and don't let them get out of hand.

• Keep plenty of water and a shovel around to douse the fire when you're done. Stir it and douse it again with water.

• Never leave campfires unattended.

Barbecue Safety

• Before using a grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line. Make sure the tubes - where the air and gas mix - are not blocked.

• Do not overfill the propane tank.

• Do not wear loose clothing while cooking at a barbecue.

Remember to call SERVPRO of Lawrence at 978.688.2242 if you ever experience fire or smoke damage to your home or office building. 

Attention Pelham, NH home and business owners!

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Business in and around Lawrence, Methuen and Dracut, MA and Pelham, NH know how traumatic a fire could be to their continued success. Damage to personal belongings, contents of the building, and structure are just one concern. Timely mitigation is the key to controlling damage, while reducing downtime and recovery costs. Here at SERVPRO® of Lawrence, we understand how disruptive fires can be for business owners, their tenants and even their customers. That is why we offer 24-hour emergency response. Our service response guidelines can help prevent fire and smoke damage from creating long-term problems.

Smoke alarm facts:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the business, including the basement if your building has one.
  If your business has a kitchen, smoke alarms should be installed generally 10 feet from any cooking appliance
  Test the smoke alarms once a month
  When you change your clocks twice a year, change the batteries in the alarms also
  Replace the device when it is ten years old

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – 978-688-2242

Practice Fire Safety this Holiday Season

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Stay Safe this Holiday season!!

The Holiday’s are upon us! With that comes family, fun and unfortunately some fire hazards. Christmas trees account for hundreds of fires each year. Typically, shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters or matches start tree fires. Well-watered trees are not a problem. A dry and neglected tree can be.

Christmas trees account for hundreds of fires each year. Typically, shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters or matches start tree fires. Well-watered trees are not a problem. A dry and neglected tree can be. 

• Be sure to keep your tree watered so it doesn’t dry out, and if it does get rid of it ASAP.
• Make sure your tree is at least 3 feet from any type of heat source (fireplace, space heater, radiator, or candles).
• Read the instructions on your Christmas tree lights so you are not over the recommended amount to connect for safety.

And, let’s not forget our furry friends. They are part of the family too! Before you leave your Salem, NH home remember these items.

• Securely anchor your tree so it doesn’t tip over and fall causing harm to your pet
• Mistletoe and Holly are beautiful to decorate with but they are actually toxic to your four legged friend. You could always opt for artificial plants keeping the season bright and your pet safe
• Keep lights and ornaments out of your pets reach.

We want to wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season filled with joy, love and peace.

Sincerely,

SERVPRO® of Lawrence

Simple Tips to Protect Yourself from the Dangers of Fire

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Lawrence is a restoration specialist that highlights the difference between fire prevention planning with fire safety planning. We have proudly served Lawrence, Methuen, and Dracut, MA for the last 40 years recover from fire damages to their home. 

The holidays are approaching and many families are finalizing plans for elaborate meals, get-togethers with friends, and decorating with festive lights. Amidst all this planning, SERVPRO® of Lawrence reminds homeowners that they may be overlooking the most crucial plan they can make—a fire safety plan.

“Each year, statistics show the incidence of home cooking and candle fires peaks during the holiday season. This tends to focus homeowners on fire prevention precautions—and that’s a good thing,” said Gregg White, owner of SERVPRO® of Lawrence. “But to truly protect your family from the dangers of a home fire, at the holidays and throughout the year, you need to start with a fire safety plan. Developing a fire safety plan and practicing it regularly with your family is the most important step you can take to help prevent a house fire from turning into a devastating tragedy.”

SERVPRO is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and their disaster response professionals know from experience how devastating a home fire can be. They also know that when fire causes a loss of life, there is no “remediation” possible. This is why SERVPRO has teamed up with the American Red Cross by supporting the ARC Disaster Responder program, and in particular the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign. As a Disaster Responder, SERVPRO pledges dollars and support in advance to help the ARC develop and distribute educational materials and respond immediately when they are needed. encourages all -area homeowners to follow these fire safety guidelines, developed by the ARC through their Home Fire Preparedness Campaign, to help minimize injury or loss of life due to a residential fire.

Install the right number of smoke alarms . Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.

Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.

Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.

Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.

Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire” to alert everyone they must get out.

Simple Fire Safety Tips Pt 2

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.

Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

“Fire prevention and fire safety planning are two very different things,” said Gregg. “Fire prevention planning helps control or eliminate the causes of a fire. Fire safety planning helps prevent injury and loss of life when a fire does break out. To protect your family and your property, you need both.”

For more fire prevention and fire safety tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit our website. For more information on SERVPRO® of Lawrence, please contact Nicole Shepley at 978-688-2242 office@SERVPROoflawrence.com.

About SERVPRO® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

The test that could save a life!

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Fire alarms when properly installed and maintained are a proven method to saving lives in the case of a fire, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Carbon monoxide and fire can make for a deadly duo, installing dual detectors makes it easier to protect yourself against both. Combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have sensing technologies that work together to detect fires and the odorless, colorless, tasteless gas known as CO – the silent killer. 

Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Follow this link for a complete 14 step outline for safely and effectively testing your fire/ smoke detectors. How do test a smoke detector.

In larger commercial buildings, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits some time saving and ease of use. These alarms do not need to be tested as often and are interconnected throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).

If you need assistance installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.

Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills. For more information on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO^® of Lawrence at 978-688-2242. Happily serving Methuen, Dracut, and Lawrence MA.

Fire Damage Tips for Lawrence, MA Business Owners

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Business in and around Lawrence, Methuen and Dracut, MA know how traumatic a fire could be to their continued success. Damage to personal belongings, contents of the building, and structure are just one concern. Timely mitigation is the key to controlling damage, while reducing downtime and recovery costs. Here at SERVPRO® of Lawrence, we understand how disruptive fires can be for business owners, their tenants and even their customers. That is why we offer 24-hour emergency response. Our service response guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems.

Smoke alarm facts:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the business, including the basement if your building has one.
  If your business has a kitchen, smoke alarms should be installed generally 10 feet from any cooking appliance
  Test the smoke alarms once a month
  When you change your clocks twice a year, change the batteries in the alarms also
  Replace the device when it is ten years old

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – 978-688-2242

SERVPRO's Summer Fire Safety Tips

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lawrence always puts safety as our #1 priority, whether it's on the job site or in our backyards. Every year Americans look forward to summer vacations, camping, family reunions, picnics, and the Fourth of July. Summertime, however, also brings fires and injuries due to fireworks and outdoor grills. Annually more than 8,000 Americans are injured by fireworks and grill fires. More than half these injuries occur during the first week of July. USFA's National Fire Data Center estimates that yearly outside cooking grills cause more than 6,000 fires, over 5 fatalities, more than 170 injuries, and $35 million in property loss. 

Here are some Safety Fire Tips from SERVPRO of Lawrence:

Campfire Safety

• Build campfires where they will not spread, away from dry grass and leaves.

• Keep campfires small, and don't let them get out of hand.

• Keep plenty of water and a shovel around to douse the fire when you're done. Stir it and douse it again with water.

• Never leave campfires unattended.

Barbecue Safety

• Before using a grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line. Make sure the tubes - where the air and gas mix - are not blocked.

• Do not overfill the propane tank.

• Do not wear loose clothing while cooking at a barbecue.

Remember to call SERVPRO of Lawrence at 978.688.2242 if you ever experience fire or smoke damage to your home or office building. 

Allow SERVPRO to give you peace of mind after a Fire

2/9/2020 (Permalink)

Worrying about the clean up and restoration can be stressful, and many home and business owners are left with a feeling of helplessness and uncertainty. SERVPRO's Franchise Professionals know restoring peace of mind is just as important as restoring property.

This blogprovides information on the steps to take in an effort to prevent costly secondary damage to your property and possession s should a fire strike your home or business. It also reinforces the importance of being prepared and having a fire escape plan in place.

Your local SERVPRO’s Franchise Professionals want to be there in your time of need, helping you and your customers piece their lives back together.

Our goal is simple:

In an emergency situation, like a building fire, every second counts. How quickly you respond could depend on how prepared you are before the emergency. Emergency planning and training directly influence the outcome of an emergency situation. Facilities with well-prepared employees and well-developed plans are likely to incur less structural damage and fewer or less severe employee injuries.

When preparing a fire evacuation plan, it is important to designate multiple evacuation routes and exits. This ensures more than one way to exit the building, should an exit be blocked by fire. When choosing emergency exits, consider the following recommendations.

• Exits should be clearly marked and well  
• Exit routes should be wide enough to accommodate the number/volume of evacuating person
• Exit routes should remain unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.

If you  prepare  drawings  that  show  evacuation routes and exits, post  them  prominently  for  all employees  to  see. Once an  escape  plan  is created, it should  be  practiced  to help familiarize  staff  with  emergency  exit  routes. It is important to talk to your local fire department, as local codes may require more frequent drills  for various  facilities.

Your local SERVPRO@ Franchise Professionals can help with emergency planning by establishing an Emergency READY Profile, (ERP), for your facility. For more information about the ERP or emergency planning, contact SERVPRO of Lawrence (978) 688-2242.

Protecting your Home this Holiday Season

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

Help your family and pets safe this season!

SERVPRO® of Lawrence is a restoration specialist that highlights the difference between fire prevention planning with fire safety planning.

The holidays are approaching and many families are finalizing plans for elaborate meals, get-togethers with friends, and decorating with festive lights. Amidst all this planning, SERVPRO® of Lawrence reminds homeowners that they may be overlooking the most crucial plan they can make—a fire safety plan.

“Each year, statistics show the incidence of home cooking and candle fires peaks during the holiday season. This tends to focus homeowners on fire prevention precautions—and that’s a good thing,” said Gregg White, owner of SERVPRO® of Lawrence. “But to truly protect your family from the dangers of a home fire, at the holidays and throughout the year, you need to start with a fire safety plan. Developing a fire safety plan and practicing it regularly with your family is the most important step you can take to help prevent a house fire from turning into a devastating tragedy.”

SERVPRO is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and their disaster response professionals know from experience how devastating a home fire can be. They also know that when fire causes a loss of life, there is no “remediation” possible. This is why SERVPRO has teamed up with the American Red Cross by supporting the ARC Disaster Responder program, and in particular the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign. As a Disaster Responder, SERVPRO pledges dollars and support in advance to help the ARC develop and distribute educational materials and respond immediately when they are needed. encourages all -area homeowners to follow these fire safety guidelines, developed by the ARC through their Home Fire Preparedness Campaign, to help minimize injury or loss of life due to a residential fire.

Install the right number of smoke alarms . Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.

Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.

Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.

Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.

Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire” to alert everyone they must get out.

Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.

Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

“Fire prevention and fire safety planning are two very different things,” said Gregg. “Fire prevention planning helps control or eliminate the causes of a fire. Fire safety planning helps prevent injury and loss of life when a fire does break out. To protect your family and your property, you need both.”

For more fire prevention and fire safety tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit our website. For more information on SERVPRO® of Lawrence, please contact Raeann Keeley-Pellerin at 978-688-2242 x33 or rpellerin@SERVPROoflawrence.com.

About SERVPRO® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Chimney Tips that can Save you Thousands

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

Follow these simply tips to help protect your home!

With cooler weather upon us your fireplace becomes more than just a central point of your home. Before you throw a log on the fire and light a match to keep your family toasty and warm, consider these 8 suggestions to keep them safe.

1. Have your fireplace cleaned and inspected by a professional. There could be soot build up, cracks, or loose-fitting bricks.
2. Check your fire and carbon monoxide detectors to help avoid fire and smoke damage. It is a good practice to replace the batteries every spring and fall during day light savings time.
3. Ensure your chimney is topped. This keeps rain, birds, squirrels and debris from entering.
4. Use kindling to start the fire instead of flammable liquids. Also be sure to burn well-seasoned wood.
5. Don’t overload your fireplace. A fire that is too hot can crack your chimney, and could get out of control very quickly.
6. Use a spark guard to keep any ambers from shooting out harming your floor and possibly igniting a fire.
7. Have a metal container nearby to remove and store hot ash. These ambers can stay hot for a while so be sure to keep it a safe distance outside away from your home.
8. Even if you had your chimney inspected, look for signs of creosote and soot accumulation. Creosote is a dark substance that can build up if wood isn’t burning completely.

No need to get the chills this winter! By following these simple tips, you can help keep your family safe until warmer temperatures return.

Be Aware of Holiday Fires!

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Learn how to keep your Holiday Safe!

The Holiday’s are upon us! With that comes family, fun and unfortunately some fire hazards. Christmas trees account for hundreds of fires each year. Typically, shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters or matches start tree fires. Well-watered trees are not a problem. A dry and neglected tree can be.

Christmas trees account for hundreds of fires each year. Typically, shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters or matches start tree fires. Well-watered trees are not a problem. A dry and neglected tree can be.

• Be sure to keep your tree watered so it doesn’t dry out, and if it does get rid of it ASAP.
• Make sure your tree is at least 3 feet from any type of heat source (fireplace, space heater, radiator, or candles).
• Read the instructions on your Christmas tree lights so you are not over the recommended amount to connect for safety.

And, let’s not forget our furry friends. They are part of the family too!

• Securely anchor your tree so it doesn’t tip over and fall causing harm to your pet
• Mistletoe and Holly are beautiful to decorate with but they are actually toxic to your four legged friend. You could always opt for artificial plants keeping the season bright and your pet safe
• Keep lights and ornaments out of your pets reach.

We want to wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season filled with joy, love and peace.

Sincerely,

SERVPRO® of Lawrence

Be Aware of Holiday Fires!

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Learn how to keep your Holiday Safe!

The Holiday’s are upon us! With that comes family, fun and unfortunately some fire hazards. Christmas trees account for hundreds of fires each year. Typically, shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters or matches start tree fires. Well-watered trees are not a problem. A dry and neglected tree can be.

Christmas trees account for hundreds of fires each year. Typically, shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters or matches start tree fires. Well-watered trees are not a problem. A dry and neglected tree can be.

• Be sure to keep your tree watered so it doesn’t dry out, and if it does get rid of it ASAP.
• Make sure your tree is at least 3 feet from any type of heat source (fireplace, space heater, radiator, or candles).
• Read the instructions on your Christmas tree lights so you are not over the recommended amount to connect for safety.

And, let’s not forget our furry friends. They are part of the family too!

• Securely anchor your tree so it doesn’t tip over and fall causing harm to your pet
• Mistletoe and Holly are beautiful to decorate with but they are actually toxic to your four legged friend. You could always opt for artificial plants keeping the season bright and your pet safe
• Keep lights and ornaments out of your pets reach.

We want to wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season filled with joy, love and peace.

Sincerely,

SERVPRO® of Lawrence

Importance of Testing Smoke Alarms

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

Know when you should be testing your fire alarms and how!

Fire alarms when properly installed and maintained are a proven method to saving lives in the case of a fire, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Carbon monoxide and fire can make for a deadly duo, installing dual detectors makes it easier to protect yourself against both. Combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have sensing technologies that work together to detect fires and the odorless, colorless, tasteless gas known as CO – the silent killer. 

Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Follow this link for a complete 14 step outline for safely and effectively testing your fire/ smoke detectors. How do test a smoke detector.

In larger commercial buildings, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits some time saving and ease of use. These alarms do not need to be tested as often and are interconnected throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).

If you need assistance installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.

Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills. For more information on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO^® of Lawrence at 978-688-2242.

Smoke Alarm Facts

2/21/2019 (Permalink)

Our service response guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems.

A business fire can be very stressful event for any property owner. Damage to personal belongings, contents of the building, and structure are just one concern. Timely mitigation is the key to controlling damage, while reducing downtime and recovery costs. Here at SERVPRO® of Lawrence, we understand how disruptive fires can be for business owners, their tenants and even their customers. That is why we offer 24-hour emergency response. Our service response guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems.

Smoke alarm facts:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the business, including the basement if your building has one.
  If your business has a kitchen, smoke alarms should be installed generally 10 feet from any cooking appliance
  Test the smoke alarms once a month
  When you change your clocks twice a year, change the batteries in the alarms also
  Replace the device when it is ten years old

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – 978-688-2242

Fireplace Safety

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

Before you throw a log on the fire and light a match to keep your family toasty and warm, consider these 8 tips to keep them safe.

With colder weather upon us your fireplace becomes more than just a focal point of your home. Before you throw a log on the fire and light a match to keep your family toasty and warm, consider these 8 tips to keep them safe.

1. Have your fireplace cleaned and inspected by a professional. There could be soot build up, cracks, or loose bricks.
2. Check your fire and carbon monoxide detectors to help avoid fire and smoke damage. It is a good practice to replace the batteries every spring and fall when we change the clocks.
3. Ensure your chimney is capped. This keeps rain, birds, squirrels and debris from entering.
4. Use kindling to start the fire instead of flammable liquids. Also be sure to burn well-seasoned wood.
5. Don’t overload your fireplace. A fire that is too hot can crack your chimney, and could get out of control very quickly.
6. Use a spark guard to keep any ambers from shooting out damaging your floor and possibly igniting a fire.
7. Have a metal container nearby to remove and store hot ash. These ambers can stay hot for a while so be sure to keep it a safe distance outside away from your home.
8. Even if you had your chimney inspected, look for signs of creosote and soot buildup. Creosote is a dark substance that can build up if wood isn’t burning completely.

No need to get the chills this winter! By following these simple tips, you can help keep your family safe until warmer temperatures return.

First Responder Bowl

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

We are grateful to live in a country where individuals dedicate themselves to protecting and serving their fellow citizens.

SERVPRO® is proud to be the sponsor of the first-ever First Responder focused bowl game taking place on December 26, 2018 in Dallas, Texas. Kick-off is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. CT (1:30 p.m. ET) and will be televised by ESPN in Cotton Bowl Stadium. We wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the brave men and women on the frontlines. Their courage and compassion are inspiring to all. We are grateful to live in a country where individuals dedicate themselves to protecting and serving their fellow citizens. We are humbled by their bravery and thank them for putting their lives on the line in order to save those around them.

The 2018 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is the ninth edition of the bowl game, formerly known as the Heart of Dallas Bowl, and part of the 89-year history of games being played at Cotton Bowl Stadium on the grounds of Dallas’ Fair Park, which features 227 acres of museums, attractions, history, art and performances located in the heart of the ninth largest city in the United States.

First responders to be honored include police officers, firefighters, EMS workers, correctional officers, search and rescue, dispatchers, security guards, federal agents, border patrol agents and military personnel who have specialized training and are the first to arrive and provide assistance at the scene of an emergency. We want to thank them and their families for their service and sacrifice.

Keeping your family safe through the holidays

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that burns

The holidays are time for family, friends and decorating your home for all the fun winter festivities. But, did you know that decorations can increase your risk for a home fire? According to the National Fire Protection Association,  December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. Read on for more facts and how to protect yourself, your family, and your pets.

More than half of home decoration fires are started by candles in December. The top 3 days for home candle fires are Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. Below are some safety tips to keep your home from becoming a statistic.

• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that burns
• Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed
• Never leave a child alone in a room with a burning candle
• Use candle holders that are sturdy & won’t tip over easily
• Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame
• Don’t burn a candle all the way down. Put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container
• Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home

Surprisingly Christmas tree fires are not that common but they are extremely dangerous. 1 out of every 45 reported Christmas tree fires resulted in death according to the NFPA. Be sure to keep reading if you and your family celebrate the holidays with a tree in your home.

• Be sure to keep your tree watered so it doesn’t dry out, and if it does get rid of it ASAP.
• Make sure your tree is at least 3 feet from any type of heat source (fireplace, space heater, radiator, or candles).
• Read the instructions on your Christmas tree lights so you are not over the recommended amount to connect for safety.

And, let’s not forget our furry friends. They are part of the family too!

• Securely anchor your tree so it doesn’t tip over and fall causing harm to your pet
• Mistletoe and Holly are beautiful to decorate with but they are actually toxic to your four legged friend. You could always opt for artificial plants keeping the season bright and your pet safe
• Keep lights and ornaments out of paws reach

We want to wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season filled with happiness, love and joy.

Sincerely,

SERVPRO® of Lawrence

Space Heaters Need Their Space

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

https://www.travelers.com/resources/workplace-safety/space-heater-safety-in-the-workplace

In the colder months many of us turn to space heaters as an additional source of comfort when the temperatures drop. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) warns that while portable space heater devices do generate heat they also present potential fire hazards and must be used with caution. Half of all home heating fires occur in the months of December, January, and February.* Below are some safety measures to keep in mind before turning on your space heater.

• Buy a unit that is the correct size for the area you wish to heat.
• We are sure this goes without saying, but read all the instructions before plugging the space heater into the wall and turning it on.
• If you are taking the unit out for the season make sure you inspect it. Check the power cord for damage and be sure it isn’t hot to the touch when plugged into the wall.
• Don’t leave the heater on in an unattended room.
• Place the space heater on a hard, level, nonflammable surface.
• Keep a three-foot perimeter around the unit to help prevent a fire.
• Never place a space heater in wet or moist place such as a bathroom. This could lead to fire or shock.
• Be mindful of children and pets. They could easily knock over the heater or touch it causing serious harm.
• Consider unplugging the unit when not in use.
• Never leave a space heater on when you go to sleep.

 Practicing good safety measures can reduce the risk of fire in your home, but keep in mind accidents can and do happen. If you find yourself in a fire situation SERVPRO^® of Lawrence can help. We are available 24/7/365.

Test Your Smoke Alarm Monthly

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately.

Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

In homes, smoke alarms should be in every bedroom and on every level, including the basement. In office and commercial environments, check your state requirements or contact your local Fire Marshall to help ensure all codes are met.

Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years. Other alarms need batteries replaced every year, and the unit replaced every ten years. If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately. Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm. Almost half of fires where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries (NFPA).

In larger commercial facilities, hard wired or wireless smoke alarms offer benefits such as not needing to be tested as often and activating throughout the entire building if smoke is detected in just one area (NFPA).

If you need help installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.

Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills. For more information on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO^® of Lawrence at 978-688-2242.

Adding Duct Cleaning to Your House Cleaning List

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know that cleaning your ducts and vents can help airflow and increase energy efficiency? According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), keeping your air ducts and vents clear can increase energy efficiency and indoor air quality. While the cost to clean ducts and vents might sound high, the benefits to homeowners?especially those sensitive to allergens?is worth considering.

When looking to have your ducts cleaned, or any other part of your home, for any reason, give SERVPRO^® of Lawrence a call (978-688-2242)! We are here to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Emergency Planning Made Simple

1/11/2018 (Permalink)

When preparing a fire evacuation plan, it is important to designate multiple evacuation routes and exits.

Worrying about the clean up and restoration can be stressful, and many home and business owners are left with a feeling of helplessness and uncertainty. SERVPRO's Franchise Professionals know restoring peace of mind is just as important as restoring property.

Our goal is simple:

In an emergency situation, like a building fire, every second counts. How quickly you respond could depend on how prepared you are before the emergency. Emergency planning and training directly influence the outcome of an emergency situation. Facilities with well-prepared employees and well-developed plans are likely to incur less structural damage and fewer or less severe employee injuries.

When preparing a fire evacuation plan, it is important to designate multiple evacuation routes and exits. This ensures more than one way to exit the building, should an exit be blocked by fire. When choosing emergency exits, consider the following recommendations.

• Exits should be clearly marked and well  
• Exit routes should be wide enough to accommodate the number/volume of evacuating person
• Exit routes should remain unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.

If you  prepare  drawings  that  show  evacuation routes and exits, post  them  prominently  for  all employees  to  see. Once an  escape  plan  is created, it should  be  practiced  to help familiarize  staff  with  emergency  exit  routes. It is important to talk to your local fire department, as local codes may require more frequent drills  for various  facilities.

SERVPRO^® of Lawrence can help with emergency planning by establishing an Emergency READY Profile, (ERP), for your facility. For more information about the ERP or emergency planning, contact us at (978) 688-2242.

Preventing Fires this Holiday in Your Lawrence Home

12/11/2017 (Permalink)

As December is the peak point in the year where candle fires increase, we want to help with some ideas to keep you and your home safe.

The holiday season is here and that usually brings Christmas trees, candles, and many more decorations. As December is the peak point in the year where candle fires increase, SERVPRO of Lawrence wants to help with some ideas to keep you and your home safe.

• Place Christmas trees, candles and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents and candles.
• Make sure that light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed.
• Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
• Use sturdy tree stands designed not to tip over. Keep curious pets and children away from Christmas trees
• Keep anything that can catch on fire – pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains – away from your stove top.
• Designate one person to walk around your property to ensure all candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished after customers leave.

When disaster does strike, SERVPRO of Lawrence is always here to help. Give us a call at (978) 688-2242 with questions, or when you in need of service. No job is too big or too small.

Help Prevent your Lawrence, Methuen, and Dracut Fire Business Damage

11/30/2017 (Permalink)

We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your business after fire and smoke damage.

A business fire can be very stressful event for any property owner. Damage to personal belongings, contents of the building, and structure are just one concern. Timely mitigation is the key to controlling damage, while reducing downtime and recovery costs. Here at SERVPRO® of Lawrence, understand how disruptive fires can be for business owners, their tenants and even their customers. That is why we offer 24-hour emergency response. Our service response guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems.

Smoke alarm facts:

Install smoke alarms on every level of the business, including the basement if your building has one.
If your business has a kitchen, smoke alarms should be installed generally 10 feet from any cooking appliance
Test the smoke alarms once a month
When you change your clocks twice a year, change the batteries in the alarms also
Replace the device when it is ten years old

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 business after fire and smoke damage. SERVPRO® of Lawrence will always treat you, your tenant, and all those involved with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – 978-688-2242

Looking for a Great Holiday Gift Idea? Give Your Family a Fire Safety Plan

11/30/2017 (Permalink)

Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors.

SERVPRO® of Lawrence is a restoration specialist that highlights the difference between fire prevention planning with fire safety planning.

The holidays are approaching and many families are finalizing plans for elaborate meals, get-togethers with friends, and decorating with festive lights. Amidst all this planning, SERVPRO® of Lawrence reminds homeowners that they may be overlooking the most important plan they can make—a fire safety plan.

“Each year, statistics show the incidence of home cooking and candle fires peaks during the holiday season. This tends to focus homeowners on fire prevention precautions—and that’s a good thing,” said Gregg White, owner of SERVPRO® of Lawrence. “But to truly protect your family from the dangers of a home fire, at the holidays and throughout the year, you need to start with a fire safety plan. Developing a fire safety plan and practicing it regularly with your family is the most important step you can take to help prevent a house fire from turning into a devastating tragedy.”

SERVPRO is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and their disaster response professionals know from experience how devastating a home fire can be. They also know that when fire causes a loss of life, there is no “remediation” possible. This is why SERVPRO has teamed up with the American Red Cross by supporting the ARC Disaster Responder program, and in particular the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign. As a Disaster Responder, SERVPRO pledges dollars and support in advance to help the ARC develop and distribute educational materials and respond immediately when they are needed. encourages all -area homeowners to follow these fire safety guidelines, developed by the ARC through their Home Fire Preparedness Campaign, to help minimize injury or loss of life due to a residential fire.

Install the right number of smoke alarms . Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.

Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.

Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.

Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.

Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire” to alert everyone they must get out.

Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.

Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

“Fire prevention and fire safety planning are two very different things,” said Gregg. “Fire prevention planning helps control or eliminate the causes of a fire. Fire safety planning helps prevent injury and loss of life when a fire does break out. To protect your family and your property, you need both.”

For more fire prevention and fire safety tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit our website. For more information on SERVPRO® of Lawrence, please contact Raeann Keeley-Pellerin at 978-688-2242 x33 or rpellerin@SERVPROoflawrence.com.

About SERVPRO® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Fire Odor in your Lawrence, Methuen, or Dracut Home or Business

11/30/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lawrence does not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out and remove the sources of the odor.

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized. Fire, smoke and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems.

As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard to reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors.

SERVPRO^® of Lawrence can provide specialized services that rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. Any restorable item in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including: furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more.

SERVPRO^® of Lawrence does not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out and remove the sources of the odor. Ask your SERVPRO^® representative to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

If you or a customer suffer a fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services please visit our website or contact SERVPRO^® of Lawrence at 978-688-2242. Whether it's fire, water or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we'll make it "Like it never even happened."

About SERVPRO^® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO^® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Emergency Fire Tips for Homeowners and Business Owners

6/19/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Lawrence will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over.

The first 48 hours after fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO^® of Lawrence can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. We provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. These services help ensure your property, belongings and memories are restored to preloss condition when possible.

• Limit movement to prevent further damage
• Place clean towels or old linens on carpeted traffic areas to prevent more soiling
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open
• Clean and protect chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets and appliances with light coating of petroleum jelly
• Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO^®
• Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO^®
• Don’t attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire or water damage without consulting a repair service.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet
• Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

So before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call the fire damage cleanup and restoration professionals at (978) 688-2242. SERVPRO^® of Lawrence has worked for over 40 years to help make fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

5 Wildfire Safety Tips

1/17/2017 (Permalink)

Wildfires can occur at any time throughout the year, but the potential is always higher during periods with little or no rainfall.

A wildfire can occur anywhere-in fact, in 2014, wildfire occurrences were  recorded in all 50 states. What is a wildfire? It is an unplanned, unwanted fire burning in a natural area, such as a forest, grassland, or prairie. A wildfire can destroy homes, businesses, agriculture, and damage natural resources while threatening the safety of the public and the firefighters who protect our forests and communities.  Wildfires can occur at any time throughout the year, but the potential is always higher during periods with little or no rainfall, which make brush, grass, and trees dry and burn more easily. High winds can also contribute to spreading the fire.

If you live or work in an area prone to wildfires, consider the following safety tips to help prevent the spread of wildfire.

Wildfire Safety Tips

• Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves, porches and decks. Remove dead  vegetation from under your deck and within 10  feet  of the  house.  This  prevents  embers from igniting your home.
• Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches. Screen or box-in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to  prevent debris from accumulating.
• Ensure flammable materials (firewood stacks, propane tanks, dry vegetation) are more than 30 feet from your home or business's foundation and outbuildings.
• Wildfire can spread to tree tops. If you have trees on your property, prune so the lowest branches are 6 to 10 feet from the ground.
• Keep your lawn hydrated and maintained. If it is brown, cut it down to reduce fire intensity. Dry grass and shrubs are fuel for wildfire.

Fire Aftermath Can Be Stressful in your Lawrence, MA Area

1/10/2017 (Permalink)

The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) recommends practicing fire and emergency evacuations at least twice a year.

Worrying about the clean u p and restoration can be stressful, and many home and business owners are left with a feeling of helplessness and uncertainty. SERVPRO's Franchise Professionals know restoring peace of mind is just as important as restoring property.

This blog provides information on the steps to take in an effort to prevent costly secondary damage to your property and possession s should a fire strike your home or business. It also reinforces the importance of being prepared and having a fire escape plan in place.

Your local SERVPRO’s Franchise Professionals want to be there in your time of need, helping you and your customers piece their lives back together.

Our goal is simple:

In an emergency situation, like a building fire, every second counts. How quickly you respond could depend on how prepared you are before the emergency. Emergency planning and training directly influence the outcome of an emergency situation. Facilities with well-prepared employees and well-developed plans are likely to incur less structural damage and fewer or less severe employee injuries.

When preparing a fire evacuation plan, it is important to designate multiple evacuation routes and exits. This ensures more than one way to exit the building, should an exit be blocked by fire. When choosing emergency exits, consider the following recommendations.

• Exits should be clearly marked and well  
• Exit routes should be wide enough to accommodate the number/volume of evacuating person
• Exit routes should remain unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.

If you  prepare  drawings  that  show  evacuation routes and exits, post  them  prominently  for  all employees  to  see. Once an  escape  plan  is created, it should  be  practiced  to help familiarize  staff  with  emergency  exit  routes. It is important to talk to your local fire department, as local codes may require more frequent drills  for various  facilities.

Your local SERVPRO@ Franchise Professionals can help with emergency planning by establishing an Emergency READY Profile, (ERP), for your facility. For more information about the ERP or emergency planning, contact SERVPRO of Lawrence (978) 688-2242.

Holidays in your Lawrence, Methuen, or Dracut Home

12/13/2016 (Permalink)

The holiday season is a time for gathering with friends and family to enjoy fellowship and quality time. Don't let a home fire ruin your plans.

The holiday season is here and that usually brings Christmas trees, candles, and many more decorations. As December is the peak point in the year where candle fires increase, SERVPRO of Lawrence wants to help with some ideas to keep you and your home safe.

• Place Christmas trees, candles and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents and candles.
• Make sure that light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed.
• Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
• Use sturdy tree stands designed not to tip over. Keep curious pets and children away from Christmas trees
• Keep anything that can catch on fire – pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains – away from your stove top.
• Designate one person to walk around your property to ensure all candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished after customers leave.

When disaster does strike, SERVPRO of Lawrence is always here to help. Give us a call at (978) 688-2242 with questions, or when you in need of service. No job is too big or too small.

Lawrence, Methuen, and Dracut Smoke and Soot Cleanup

12/7/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Lawrence, Methuen, or Dracut 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 Lawrence 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 – 978-688-2242

Fire Odor in your Lawrence, Methuen, or Dracut Home or Business

11/29/2016 (Permalink)

When fire hits home, not only is the clean up a process, but getting rid of the odor is just as important. SERVPRO of Lawrence is here to help you.

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized. Fire, smoke and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems.

As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard to reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors.

SERVPRO(R) of Lawrence can provide specialized services that rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. Any restorable item in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including: furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more.

SERVPRO(R) of Lawrence does not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out and remove the sources of the odor. Ask your SERVPRO(R) representative to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

If you or a customer suffer a fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services please visit our website or contact SERVPRO(R) of Lawrence at 978-688-2242. Whether it's fire, water or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we'll make it "Like it never even happened."

About SERVPRO® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Looking for a Great Holiday Gift Idea? Give Your Family a Fire Safety Plan

11/16/2016 (Permalink)

“Each year, statistics show the incidence of home cooking and candle fires peaks during the holiday season."

SERVPRO® of Lawrence is a restoration specialist that highlights the difference between fire prevention planning with fire safety planning.

The holidays are approaching and many families are finalizing plans for elaborate meals, get-togethers with friends, and decorating with festive lights. Amidst all this planning, SERVPRO® of Lawrence reminds homeowners that they may be overlooking the most important plan they can make—a fire safety plan.

“Each year, statistics show the incidence of home cooking and candle fires peaks during the holiday season. This tends to focus homeowners on fire prevention precautions—and that’s a good thing,” said Gregg White, owner of SERVPRO® of Lawrence. “But to truly protect your family from the dangers of a home fire, at the holidays and throughout the year, you need to start with a fire safety plan. Developing a fire safety plan and practicing it regularly with your family is the most important step you can take to help prevent a house fire from turning into a devastating tragedy.”

SERVPRO is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and their disaster response professionals know from experience how devastating a home fire can be. They also know that when fire causes a loss of life, there is no “remediation” possible. This is why SERVPRO has teamed up with the American Red Cross by supporting the ARC Disaster Responder program, and in particular the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign.  As a Disaster Responder, SERVPRO pledges dollars and support in advance to help the ARC develop and distribute educational materials and respond immediately when they are needed. encourages all -area homeowners to follow these fire safety guidelines, developed by the ARC through their Home Fire Preparedness Campaign, to help minimize injury or loss of life due to a residential fire.

1. Install the right number of smoke alarms . Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.


2. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.


3. Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.


4. Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.


5. Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire” to alert everyone they must get out.


6. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.


7. Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

“Fire prevention and fire safety planning are two very different things,” said Gregg. “Fire prevention planning helps control or eliminate the causes of a fire. Fire safety planning helps prevent injury and loss of life when a fire does break out. To protect your family and your property, you need both.”

For more fire prevention and fire safety tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit our website. For more information on SERVPRO® of Lawrence, please contact Raeann Keeley-Pellerin at 978-688-2242 x33 or rpellerin@SERVPROoflawrence.com.

About SERVPRO® Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Help Prevent your Lawrence, Methuen, and Dracut Fire Business Damage

11/9/2016 (Permalink)

This photo represents a restaurant fire damage. A smoke detector can sometimes mean the difference of damage to disaster.

A business fire can be very stressful event for any property owner. Damage to personal belongings, contents of the building, and structure are just one concern. Timely mitigation is the key to controlling damage, while reducing downtime and recovery costs. Here at SERVPRO® of Lawrence, understand how disruptive fires can be for business owners, their tenants and even their customers. That is why we offer 24-hour emergency response. Our service response guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. 

Smoke alarm facts:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the business, including the basement if your building has one.

• If your business has a kitchen, smoke alarms should be installed generally 10 feet from any cooking appliance

• Test the smoke alarms once a month
• When you change your clocks twice a year, change the batteries in the alarms also
• Replace the device when it is ten years old

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 business after fire and smoke damage.  SERVPRO® of Lawrence will always treat you, your tenant, and all those involved with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – 978-688-2242