Household Fires Increase on Thanksgiving Day – Safety Tips From SERVPRO®

11/1/2024 (Permalink)

Turkey Fryers are Dangerous to Operate

Fires started by cooking are the leading cause of household fires and the second leading cause of fatalities. On Thanksgiving Day, we see more house fires than any other day of the year. The increase is a staggering, almost 300% spike.

With large gatherings, running children, and multiple conversations occurring at the same time, it’s easy to lose track of what’s cooking on the stove or in the oven. What’s worse, is that small fires resulting from unattended food catching fire can spread rapidly, leading a chaotic situation, and panic.

If you’re thinking of trying to reduce the fire risk by using a deep fryer on an outdoor patio, think again. Turkey fryers are considered dangerous to operate, especially those that use oil. Your bird might explode, hot oil can splatter flammable materials in the area, or the whole thing might fall or get knocked over during the process.

Some Commonsense Tips to Minimize the Chance of a Fire on Thanksgiving 

• Do not leave the kitchen while cooking on the stovetop
• Avoid putting your turkey in the oven and then leaving the house for any reason
• Check your turkey and other dishes cooking in the oven on regular intervals
• Use a timer to keep track of cooking times
• Keep dishtowels, rags, or other flammable items away from your cooking area
• Dress accordingly - avoid loose sleeves, neckties, or other hanging fabrics
• Keep lids or covers close at hand while cooking and pot handles turned inward
• Keep children and pets at a safe distance from the cooking area
• Use fire safe trivets or hot pads before placing hot dishes on countertops
• Check smoke alarms for functionality before you start, and have an extinguisher close by

Commercial and Residential Damage Cleanup and Repair

8/7/2024 (Permalink)

When unexpected water damage happens, time is critical.

The climate of Honolulu can be described by what it has and what it doesn’t have. It doesn’t have snow, there are no ice storms, and thankfully, no extreme cold weather occurs. Yet, natural disasters such as hurricanes, tsunamis, flooding, and fire can and do occur. For these reasons, SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu is always on stand-by, ready to provide commercial and residential damage cleanup and repair.

24-Hour Emergency Service

SERVPRO of Central Honolulu provides emergency water restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — including all holidays. When you call, you can expect an immediate response time, day or night. Our representative will quickly and efficiently gather key pieces of information, including the loss address, contact information, insurance details (if applicable), and the source of the water. With the right information, we’ll dispatch an emergency response team to your location.

Why Are We a 24-Hour Company? 

In cases of water damage, speed is crucial. The quicker our team can be on-site, pumping out excess water or setting up drying equipment, the chances of additional damage are greatly reduced. When it comes to water damage, a delay of even a few hours can greatly increase the severity of damage. Standing water can seep into walls, furniture, appliances, HVAC systems, and even your foundation. In some instances, this can lead to structural damage, mold, and other types of unwanted bacterial growth.

Trust the Professionals at SERVPRO of Central Honolulu 

A water loss can be traumatic, causing unwanted stress, and a feeling of helplessness. Our team of professionals, having dealt with many similar situations in the past, can provide you with peace of mind. Once on site, our team will assess the situation, communicate with the home or business owner, and begin mitigation, minimizing the damage caused by the loss.

SERVPRO specializes in water damage—in fact, SERVPRO is the premier water damage restoration company in the U.S. and Canada.

Professional Services Provide Professional Results

8/5/2024 (Permalink)

Standing Water can lead to mold, mildew, and other issues that can lead to health hazards.

Water damage comes in all shapes and sizes. Your ice maker water connection might be loose, leaving a small, but ever-growing puddle underneath the refrigerator. Other times an older pipe in the basement bursts, filling the room with water, and soaking all the contents in the process. Most homeowners can handle cleaning up a small puddle, but very few, if any, can effectively pump out a flooded basement, and dry it correctly.

At SERVPRO® we’ve made it our mission to understand all aspects of water damage, how to dry out all types of materials, where to place equipment, and most importantly, to respond quickly to a water loss. Within minutes, uncontrolled water can quickly spread into drywall, under wood floors, into furniture, electronics, and carpeting. Any paper-based items will start to swell and warp. Fabrics may bleed and stain items around them.

If standing water is not removed, within the first twenty-four hours, metal items will begin to discolor and rust, drywall will turn soft and lose structural integrity, furniture begins to split, and concrete can become saturated. With each passing day, the damage becomes worse, doors and windows swell and warp, corrosion forms, and mold and mildew begin to grow and spread.

Our trained team will arrive with professional-grade extraction equipment, to remove all standing water. This step is critical, as it speeds up the drying time, and reduces the chances of mold or other secondary water damage. In addition to pumping out the water, our team will begin the process of moving out furniture, paper goods, and other pieces of personal property to prevent further damage.

Once the standing water is removed, our team will consult with the property owner and their insurance carrier, to identify and then remove carpets, flooring, drywall, and paneling, that cannot be saved. Next, powerful drying equipment is placed, along with dehumidifiers, to expedite the drying process. During this stage of the restoration, SERVPRO crew members will monitor the equipment daily, adjusting as necessary, until materials are returned to their normal moisture levels.

Once everything is dry, our team will begin the reconstruction process, carefully making necessary repairs, until the affected area is returned to its preloss condition. Finally, we’ll return and place your personal property right where it used to be.

Cooking Up Safety: SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu's Guide to Avoiding Stove Top Fires

11/9/2023 (Permalink)

Stovetop fire in a Central Honolulu home.

We at SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu are aware of the havoc that fire damage can cause to establishments, both commercial and residential. Stovetop accidents rank among the most frequent causes of home fires, with potentially crippling emotional and financial consequences.

We'll discuss the dangers of cooktop fires, the damage they may cause to your home, and—most importantly—how to protect your kitchen from these catastrophes in this blog post.

The Risks of Stove Top Fires: 

A typical dinner preparation can quickly become a disaster due to stovetop fires, which can occur in an instant. The first line of defense against such occurrences is awareness of the possible threats.

These are a few typical reasons:

Cooking While Unattended: Leaving your stove unattended is a surefire way to go wrong. Cooking while distracted or running errands is a major contributor to cooktop fires.

Grease Buildup: Grease buildup in the exhaust hood or on the stovetop is extremely combustible. It takes frequent cleaning to stop this flammable accumulation.

Flammable Materials: Keeping dish towels, paper goods, or other combustible materials too near the stove raises the possibility of a fire spreading swiftly.

Appliance flaws: Broken electrical parts or broken stovetops can be a major fire hazard. Inspections and routine maintenance are essential.

Preventive Advice from SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu:

Remain in the Kitchen: When cooking, never leave your burner unattended. Turn off the stove if you need to leave.

Clean Frequently: Avoid letting oil and food particles build up on your stovetop, oven, and exhaust hood. Frequent cleaning lowers the chance of an ignition.

Keep a Safe Zone: A clear area should be around the stove. Maintain a safe distance between combustible objects like dish cloths, potholders, and paper goods.

Safeguarding your belongings is not the only reason to prevent cooktop fires—it's also about protecting the people you care about. You may lessen the chance of kitchen fires and enjoy your home's heart without concern by putting these preventative suggestions from SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu into practice. If something unforeseen occurs, you may rely on SERVPRO of Central Honolulu to revive your property. After all, restoration and safety go hand in hand, and we're here to help you at every turn.

Mold Safety in Central Honolulu: Protecting Your Home and Health

10/4/2023 (Permalink)

Mold on white leather couch in Central Honolulu.

Given our tropical climate, mold is a problem that many Central Honolulu residences frequently encounter. While mold growth could initially seem unproblematic, if left unattended it can pose serious health hazards and harm to your property. 

We at SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu are committed to assisting you in maintaining a safe and healthy living space. We'll give you important mold safety advice in this blog post so you can safeguard your house and well-being.

Determine and Fix Moisture Issues

Since mold prefers moist, humid environments, it's crucial to spot and take care of moisture problems as soon as possible. Leaks, plumbing issues, and inadequate ventilation are typical sources of dampness. Regularly check your home for any indications of water damage, and remedy them right away. By taking preventive measures, mold growth can be stopped in its tracks.

Keep the Humidity Levels Low

Environments with high relative humidity support the growth of mold. To keep track of indoor humidity, make an investment in a humidity meter. The ideal indoor humidity level is lower than 50%. Use a dehumidifier to lower moisture levels and produce an atmosphere that is unsuitable for the formation of mold if you observe an increase in humidity.

Maintain Good Ventilation in Your House

In order to lower interior humidity levels and make conditions less suitable for the growth of mold, proper ventilation is essential. Make sure your home has enough ventilation in damp areas like basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. To promote air circulation, think about turning on exhaust fans and opening windows, especially after cooking or taking a shower.

Quickly Clean and Dry Spills and Floods

Accidents can happen, as well as spills or floods. When they occur, the afflicted area needs to be cleaned and dried as soon as possible. In the correct circumstances, mold can start to grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours. To fasten drying, use fans, dehumidifiers, and absorbent materials.

Cleanup After Mold Properly

It's critical to treat mold in your house in a safe and efficient manner if you find it there. Because it can spread spores into the air, don't touch or disturb the mold. Instead, to safely remove and cure the mold issue, call a professional mold remediation company like SERVPRO of Central Honolulu.

Keeping your Central Honolulu homes safe from mold should be your first priority. You can safeguard the health of your family and your home by adhering to these mold safety recommendations. 

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (808) 744-2730

The Significance of Contents Cleaning - SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu

10/4/2023 (Permalink)

Contents being brought into our warehouse for cleaning.

For homeowners in Central Honolulu, disasters such as fires, floods, or mold infestations can be catastrophic. They not only interfere with daily living but can endanger your most prized possessions. 

We at SERVPRO of Central Honolulu are aware of the strong emotional attachment you have to your possessions. In this blog post, we'll discuss the importance of content cleaning and how our expert services may assist you in recovering and restoring the things that are most important to you.

The Emotional Worth of Your Possessions

Your belongings are more than simply things; they also hold sentimental value and memories. Your home may sustain physical damage during a crisis, but you are also worried about losing these priceless possessions. The secret to keeping the sentimental value that these objects hold is to clean the contents.

Family Heirlooms: Family heirlooms frequently contain years' worth of tradition and history. These priceless artifacts can be restored with the aid of contents cleaning, assuring they can continue to be passed down through the family.

Images and Keepsakes: Images capture specific moments in time, whereas mementos preserve the essence of experiences. These objects may be salvaged by our contents cleaning services, protecting your memories and the tales they contain.

Art and Collectibles: Expensive works of art and memorabilia are more than simply wise financial decisions; they are a representation of your hobbies and passions. You can keep the sentiment and value attached to these products by cleaning the contents.

The Benefits of Contents Cleaning in Real Life

Beyond the sentimental factor, there are several reasons for why contents cleaning is crucial:

Cost-Efficiency: Replacing all of your damaged possessions can be expensive. A cheap solution that might help you save money by recovering materials you thought were lost is content cleansing.

Faster Recovery: As soon as a tragedy hits, you want to get back to business as usual. Professional contents cleaning shortens the time it takes to replace lost possessions and reduces stress by saving important items.

Maintaining History: The things you own have a backstory and contribute to your history. Contents cleaning aids in preserving both your home's own personality and your personal history.

We are aware of how important your items are to you at SERVPRO of Central Honolulu. We offer cleaning and restoration services to help you recover and protect the things that are most important to you. When tragedy occurs, you can rely on us to restore your priceless possessions and provide you peace of mind throughout the recovery process. To find out more about how we may help you restore your home and its contents, get in touch with us right now.

Call Us!

When your home or commercial business has damage, our team in Central Honolulu is Here to Help®. Call us today at 808-744-2730. Mahalo.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Three Essential Fire Prevention Measures - SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu

10/4/2023 (Permalink)

Fire Damage in Central Honolulu Home.

In Central Honolulu, where the risk of fires can be influenced by a variety of elements including the environment, electrical systems, and more, fire safety is a top concern for residents. The best defense against a fire's destructive effects is prevention for your house and for the safety of your loved ones. 

In this blog post, we'll discuss three crucial measures you can take to safeguard your home against fire and create a safer living space.

Electrical Safety

Electrical and wiring problems can be a serious fire hazard. To guarantee electrical safety:

• To evaluate and maintain the electrical system in your home, hire a skilled electrician.
• To safeguard expensive equipment from surges, don't overload circuits.
• Repair damaged outlets, wires, and plugs as soon as possible.
• Keep space heaters and other electrical appliances away from flammable materials.

Store flammable materials safely

Many everyday things should be stored safely to avoid fires because they are highly flammable:

• Keep gasoline, propane, and other flammable liquids out of the path of heat sources in well-ventilated locations.
• Keep children away from lighters and matches.
• Paint and old, unused chemicals should be disposed of carefully.

Upkeep of smoke alarms

Your first line of defense against flames is a smoke alarm. Make sure your home is equipped with functional smoke alarms, especially in the bedrooms, hallways, and common areas. Every month, check them, swap out the batteries once a year, and replace the whole thing every ten years. Early warnings from smoke alarms can help you and your family move quickly in the event of a fire.

Every homeowner in Central Honolulu should treat fire prevention seriously. You may drastically lower your home's fire risk and guarantee the security of your loved ones and your belongings by following these three crucial procedures. Keep in mind that fire prevention demands continual attention to detail and a dedication to sustaining a secure living environment.

Experienced fire damage in your home or business? Call SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu today to get your restoration completed faster.

Swinging for a Cause: SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu at the CCIM Golf Tournament

10/4/2023 (Permalink)

Julie and Dana, SERVPRO of Central Honolulu Team Members at CCIM Golf Tournament.

We at SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu think it's important to get involved in our community. We recently enjoyed taking part in the CCIM 12th Annual Charity Golf Tournament. We are thrilled to discuss the value of community engagement in this blog post and to share our experience at this wonderful event.

The CCIM Golf Tournament offers professionals the chance to network, form relationships, and support charities in addition to a day of golf. The event was held at the stunning Pearl Country Club, providing the ideal setting for a day of friendship and friendly competition.

Potential Networking Contacts

The CCIM Golf Tournament's main objective is to promote networking among business professionals. Participants can interact with peers, talk about industry trends, and investigate prospective business opportunities in a laid-back and entertaining setting. Many bright people who share our dedication to the Central Honolulu community were introduced to our team.

Taking Part in a Cause

The tournament has a bigger goal in addition to networking and golf: it helps the community. This event's revenue went to Maui Relief Support and Surfrider Spirit Sessions. It's touching to see how this occasion mixes good times and charitable giving, which is consistent with SERVPRO of Central Honolulu's principles.

Our Dedication to our Community

We show our commitment to the Central Honolulu neighborhood by taking part in occasions like the CCIM Golf Tournament. Whether they are business-related or charity, we think it's critical to be actively involved in local events if you want to forge meaningful relationships and leave a lasting impression.

The CCIM Golf Tournament was more than simply a day on the course; it was a chance for us to forge stronger ties with our neighbors and other businesspeople. We look forward to continuing our involvement in Central Honolulu and are honored to have been a part of this event. You can rely on SERVPRO of Central Honolulu to be a trustworthy partner as we go forward, both on and off the golf course.

Why SERVPRO of Central Honolulu is Your Packout Partner: Choosing Peace of Mind

8/29/2023 (Permalink)

One of our SERVPRO of Central Honolulu team members doing a packout.

For Central Honolulu residents and businesses, having to secure their possessions while repairs are being made adds to the stress of a disaster. However, SERVPRO of Central Honolulu's quick and expert packout services provide a solution that will be covered in this blog, ensuring a smooth experience during trying times.

Disasters can happen at any time, leaving a path of devastation and turmoil in their wake. The last thing you need when your Central Honolulu home or place of business is additional stress from trying to figure out how to secure your possessions during repair. That's where SERVPRO Central Honolulu's prompt and competent packout services come in. We'll walk you through the crucial procedures of a packout.

Step 1: Inventory and Evaluation

The process starts with the SERVPRO Central Honolulu crew performing a comprehensive examination of the damaged area. The items that need to be packed out will be noted, and an inventory will be taken to note each item's condition. This thorough procedure makes sure nothing is lost during the packout and helps create a record for insurance claims.

Step 2: Sorting and Packing: 

Following the completion of the inventory, goods are classified according to their worth, fragility, and degree of damage. Items that are valuable or delicate are handled carefully to prevent further damage while being transported. Each item is meticulously wrapped and packaged by the SERVPRO Central Honolulu team using the proper materials to protect it from moisture, impact, and other potential risks.

Step 3: Secure Transportation: 

After everything has been boxed and tagged with care, it's time to transport your things to SERVPRO's secure facility. Their skilled employees drive specialized vehicles made to reduce movement and guard against damage while in transportation. To guarantee the security of your belongings in transit, the crew adheres to industry best standards.

Step 4: Detailed Documentation:

Throughout the packout and storage phases, detailed documentation is maintained. Each object has a catalog, and the condition is noted. This documentation helps ensure that your belongings are returned to you in the same condition they were when they were packed and is an invaluable resource for insurance claims.

Step 5: Complete Cleaning and Restoration:

The professionals at SERVPRO Central Honolulu clean, fix, and restore your possessions to their pre-damage state once your property is ready. Due to the team's expertise and cutting-edge methods, even the most delicate things are handled with the utmost care.

Step 6: Return Safely, Unpack, and Inventory Check:

Now that your property has been repaired, it's time to move your possessions back inside. The SERVPRO Central Honolulu team ensures that everything is put back where it belongs by delivering your items and helping with unpacking. The return to your space is as easy as possible thanks to this attention to detail. A final inventory check is carried before the procedure is finished. This guarantees that everything that left your property is brought back to you, eliminating any possibility of uncertainty or worry.

It is never simple to deal with the fallout after a disaster, but having a reliable partner like SERVPRO of Central Honolulu on your side can make all the difference. Their packout procedure speeds the restoration process, protects your possessions, and permits the restoration work to be completed without interruption. By carefully following these predetermined processes, SERVPRO of Central Honolulu guarantees that your priceless items are returned to you in the finest condition possible, assisting you in rebuilding and moving on after even the most traumatic occurrences.

Call Us!

When your home or commercial business has damage, our team in Central Honolulu is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-744-2730. Mahalo.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Restoration Company SERVPRO Central Honolulu Joins Hands with Maui for Post-Fire Cleanup

8/22/2023 (Permalink)

In the aftermath of the recent wildfires that swept through Maui, the restoration company SERVPRO of Central Honolulu has emerged as a beacon of hope for the affected community. As families pick up the pieces after the devastation, SERVPRO is rolling up its sleeves to assist in the fire cleanup and rebuilding process.

When the fires raged, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints opened its doors to provide shelter for those who were forced to leave their homes. Now, as the smoke clears, it's time to rebuild. That's where SERVPRO Central Honolulu steps in, using its skills and expertise to help the community move forward.

It's heartbreaking how much destruction the wildfires have caused. Homes and communities that were once bursting with activity have been reduced to ash and debris. Historic areas like Lahaina have been severely damaged, yet despite the devastation, there is a tremendous will to recover.

Restoration company, SERVPRO Central Honolulu is on a mission to restore not just buildings, but also a sense of normalcy with a team of qualified experts and sophisticated tools. Their work involves more than just clearing away trash; it also involves providing people and businesses a fresh start.

A real illustration of people banding together during trying times is the cooperation between the Church, the neighborhood, and restoration company SERVPRO Central Honolulu. Cleaning up is important, but it's also important to demonstrate support and solidarity as the healing process gets underway. This restoration company's dedication is a reflection of the island's aloha spirit, which values friendliness and cooperation.

The influence of SERVPRO of Central Honolulu is apparent as they collaborate closely with the community. The company's commitment demonstrates that there are those willing to lend a hand even in the face of difficulty.

Despite the difficulties caused by the flames, SERVPRO of Central Honolulu stands out as a source of inspiration. It's obvious that as Maui rebuilds, the resilience of the locals and the unwavering support of all those engaged will pave the path for a better future.

Experienced fire damage in your home or business? Call SERVPRO of Central Honolulu today to get your restoration completed faster.