Keeping Your Holiday Cooking Safe: Tips from SERVPRO of Upper Darby

11/20/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Upper Darby is "Here to Help" 24/7, 365.

The holiday season is a time for gathering with loved ones and savoring delicious home-cooked meals. But it's also a time when the risk of cooking-related fires can increase significantly. To ensure your holidays remain safe and joyful, it's crucial to be aware of potential fire hazards and take precautions. In this blog post, we'll share some valuable tips for keeping your holiday cooking safe, with a focus on the Upper Darby area.

1. Stay Attentive in the Kitchen:

One of the leading causes of cooking fires is leaving the kitchen unattended while preparing a meal. Whether you're roasting a turkey, frying latkes, or baking cookies, it's essential to remain in the kitchen and monitor your cooking.

2. Keep Flammable Items Away:

Ensure that flammable items such as kitchen towels, oven mitts, and wooden utensils are kept away from hot surfaces. These items can easily catch fire if they come into contact with a burner.

3. Have a Fire Extinguisher Ready:

Make sure you have a fire extinguisher designed for kitchen fires within easy reach. Familiarize yourself with its operation, and be prepared to use it should a fire occur.

4. Test Smoke Alarms:

Before the holiday season begins, test your home's smoke alarms to ensure they're working correctly. Replace batteries if necessary, ensuring they provide early warnings in case of a fire.

5. Avoid Overcrowding the Oven:

While preparing large holiday meals, it's tempting to maximize oven space. However, overcrowding the oven can lead to uneven cooking and potential fire hazards. Follow the recommended oven spacing and temperature guidelines in your recipes.

6. Keep Children and Pets Safe:

Ensure children and pets are a safe distance away from the cooking area. Hot pots and pans, sharp utensils, and open flames can pose dangers to curious youngsters and pets.

7. SERVPRO of Upper Darby Can Assist:

In the unfortunate event of a cooking fire or any fire-related incident during the holidays, you can rely on the professional fire damage restoration services provided by SERVPRO of Upper Darby. Their experienced team is available 24/7 to assist with fire damage cleanup and restoration, ensuring your home is promptly and effectively restored to its pre-fire condition.

By taking these precautions and being prepared, you can help keep your holiday celebrations filled with warmth and happiness, rather than the heat of a cooking fire.

Wishing you a safe and joyful holiday season from SERVPRO of Upper Darby!

Halloween Safety Tips with SERVPRO of Upper Darby

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Upper Darby wishes you all a spooky and wonderful Halloween!

Halloween is a time for fun costumes and creativity, but safety should never be forgotten. As Halloween continues to grow in popularity this year, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Here are some essential Halloween safety tips for 2023, in partnership with SERVPRO of Upper Darby, to ensure a secure and festive celebration:

1. Decorate Safely

Each year, Halloween decorations near heat sources and open flames can pose risks. Keep decorations away from open flames, lights, and heaters. Ensure clear exits in case of emergencies.

2. Illuminating Jack-o'-Lanterns

Consider using battery-operated candles or glow sticks in your jack-o'-lanterns. If using real candles, use caution, and keep them away from flammable objects. Watch children when candles are lit.

3. Safer Lighting Options

Opt for flashlights instead of open flames to light up walkways and yards, reducing the risk for trick-or-treaters.

4. Safe Costumes

Choose costumes without trailing fabric to prevent tripping hazards. Ensure clear visibility for masks and stay away from flammable objects.

5. Educate Your Children

Teach your kids to avoid open flames. Provide flashlights or glow sticks for their costumes, keeping them visible and safe.

These Halloween safety tips for 2023 are vital for a worry-free celebration. Should issues arise, SERVPRO of Upper Darby is here to assist with water damage, fire damage, or weather-related damage. We're available 24/7, including weekends and holidays, to help with cleanup and home restoration.

Source: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

Grill Safely this Labor Day Weekend with SERVPRO of Upper Darby's Tips!

9/26/2023 (Permalink)

Remember, if a fire emergency does occur, SERVPRO of Upper Darby is "Here to Help".

As Labor Day weekend approaches, many of us are excited to fire up the grill and enjoy some delicious barbecue with friends and family. While grilling is a fantastic way to celebrate the holiday, safety should always be a top priority.

At SERVPRO of Upper Darby, we're not just here to help when disaster strikes; we also want to help you prevent emergencies. Here are some essential tips for safe grilling this Labor Day:

1. Maintain a Safe Distance: Make sure your grill is at least 10 feet away from your home, deck, or any flammable materials. This minimizes the risk of fires spreading.
2. Check for Leaks: Before lighting the grill, inspect the gas hose for leaks. You can do this by applying a soapy water solution to the hose and looking for bubbles. If you see any, turn off the gas and get the hose replaced.
3. Keep it Clean: Regularly clean your grill grates and trays. Grease buildup can lead to flare-ups and potential fires. Use a grill brush and warm, soapy water to remove residue.
4. Stay Nearby: Never leave your grill unattended while it's in use. Accidents can happen quickly, and being present can make all the difference.
5. Use Proper Tools: Invest in long-handled utensils specifically designed for grilling to keep your hands and arms safe from the heat.
6. Keep a Fire Extinguisher On Hand: Have a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it. In case of a grease fire, never use water; use the extinguisher instead.
7. Be Cautious with Charcoal: If you're using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container. Hot coals can start fires long after your barbecue is over.

Our expert teams are available 24/7 to respond quickly and professionally to fire damage and cleanup needs. Contact us immediately, and we'll be on the scene to assist you.

Enjoy your Labor Day weekend safely, and savor those delicious grilled treats!

For more information about SERVPRO of Upper Darby's services, visit our website here.

Prevent Grill Fires and Enjoy a Safer BBQ Experience with SERVPRO of Upper Darby

9/26/2023 (Permalink)

Remember, SERVPRO of Upper Darby is here for you in case of emergencies.

Grilling is a cherished American pastime, especially during summer and on holidays like Labor Day. While it's all about good food and great company, it's also crucial to prioritize safety to ensure your barbecue goes off without a hitch. One significant safety aspect often overlooked is grill maintenance. At SERVPRO of Upper Darby, we believe in keeping you informed and safe. Here's how to clean your grill properly to prevent fires:

1. Start with Safety: Always begin by ensuring your grill is completely cooled down. Cleaning a hot grill can be dangerous.
2. Remove the Grates: Take out the cooking grates and soak them in warm, soapy water. This will help loosen burnt-on residue.
3. Scrub the Grates: Use a grill brush or scraper to remove any remaining debris. Pay special attention to areas with heavy buildup.
4. Clean the Burners and Drip Pan: Remove the burners and drip pan, if possible, and clean them thoroughly. These areas can accumulate grease and food particles, making them potential fire hazards.
5. Check the Hoses: Inspect the gas hoses for any signs of wear or damage. Replace any compromised parts to prevent gas leaks.
6. Clear the Ventilation: Ensure that the grill's ventilation system is clear of obstructions, such as spider webs or debris, which could affect the grill's airflow and lead to fires.
7. Empty the Grease Tray: Regularly empty the grease tray or cup to prevent grease buildup, which can ignite during cooking.

By following these steps, you'll not only reduce the risk of fires but also improve the longevity and performance of your grill.

If a fire does occur despite your best efforts, don't hesitate to contact us. Our experienced teams are available around the clock to provide fire damage restoration and cleanup services.

Keep these safety tips in mind as you enjoy a worry-free Labor Day weekend filled with delicious grilled dishes and memorable moments with loved ones. Stay safe, and happy grilling!

Restore, Renew, Rebuild with SERVPRO of Upper Darby's Restoration Excellence!

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Upper Darby, we're not just about restoring properties – we're about restoring your peace of mind. Here's why you should choose us for all your restoration needs:

? 24/7 Emergency Response: We're always ready to spring into action when disaster strikes. Our rapid response team is available around the clock to handle any emergency, ensuring that your property is on the path to recovery without delay.

? Proven Expertise: With years of experience and a track record of successful restoration projects, SERVPRO of Upper Darby brings unmatched expertise to every job. Our skilled professionals know how to tackle fire, water, and mold damage effectively and efficiently.

? State-of-the-Art Technology: We stay ahead of the curve with the latest restoration technology and equipment. This enables us to provide precise assessments, efficient solutions, and superior results for your property.

? Comprehensive Solutions: From assessment and mitigation to cleanup and rebuilding, SERVPRO of Upper Darby offers a complete range of restoration services under one roof. You can trust us to handle every aspect of your property's recovery journey.

? Minimal Disruption: We understand the stress that comes with property damage. Our goal is to minimize disruption to your life as we work tirelessly to restore your space, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

? Customer-Centric Approach: Our dedication to customer satisfaction is unwavering. We listen to your needs, communicate transparently, and keep you informed every step of the way, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

When the unexpected happens, turn to SERVPRO of Upper Darby for restoration excellence that goes beyond bricks and mortar. Contact us today for a partner you can trust in times of crisis!

Tracking Down a Water Leak After a Storm | SERVPRO of Upper Darby

7/28/2023 (Permalink)

Does your home or business have water damage from a recent storm? Call SERVPRO of Upper Darby to get your space back in order.

The storm season sure is a long one in eastern Pennsylvania, and we are in the heart of severe thunderstorm and coastal storm season right now. Any time that a storm blows through our area, your home has the potential to spring a leak and suffer extensive water damage.

In order to stop these leaks from occurring, you have to be proactive about checking the most common spaces around your home that are prone to water leaks. Can you guess where a few of them might be? Read on as our SERVPRO of Upper Darby team explains the most common places so you can put a stop to potential water damage.

Let Us Restore Your Drexel Hill, PA Property with Ultrasonic Cleaning

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

To Learn More About Ultrasonic Cleaning Call SERVPRO of Upper Darby (610) 352-0700.

One of the types of services SERVPRO of Upper Darby is proud to offer is contents restoration and ultrasonic cleaning, which is one of the most efficient and effective ways to restoring your water, mold, and smoke damaged property.

About Contents Restoration

Contents Restoration is an important business. It not only helps to restore damaged property, but it also helps restore people’s lives and livelihoods. While property damage can take many forms, what’s important to the owners is that their lives are returned to normal, and that they get their property back, as fast as possible.

Of course, when property can be returned depends on the type and severity of the damage. Not every item, such as those actually burnt or melted in fires, can be restored, but a great number of items that would have typically been determined to be unsalvageable, can now be quickly restored and returned to the owner with SERVPRO of Upper Darby’s Ultrasonic Cleaning Services.

About Ultrasonic Cleaning

Ultrasonic cleaning is the most efficient and effective way of cleaning contents. The secret is cavitation, which means millions of microscopic bubbles are repeatedly formed and immediately collapse. This action causes the bubbles to penetrate into every niche and crevice. There are no scrubbing or abrasive chemicals!! The process involves submerging the items into a pre-wash station, then into the wash station, then it moves to the third machine you see pictured above where it is rinsed.

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Upper Darby specializes in restoring contents damaged by mold, water, or fire. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious belongings that cannot be replaced. We also pretest your contents to determine what items are able to be restored back to their preloss condition before the damage.

SERVPRO Upper Darby utilizes several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product. 
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned. 

Types of Contents Restoration

The damage that occurs to property during fires, floods, and other disasters is often much more severe than it first appears. Fire is destructive and an item that is physically burned or melted cannot be restored. However, property that has been engulfed in smoke, covered in soot, stained or discolored by water or contaminated by chemicals or molds can usually be restored to functional (or even good-as-new) condition with SERVPRO of Upper Darby’s Ultrasonic Cleaning Services. 

Benefits of Ultrasonic Cleaning for Contents Restoration 

The benefits of restoring property with SERVPRO of Upper Darby’s Ultrasonic Cleaning Services:

1. For Insurance Companies: The cost of restoring an item versus reimbursing the owner for the item’s full value is dramatically diminished. 
2. For Property Owners: Property is restored and returned quickly, whereas traditional cleaning methods can take weeks and cause additional property damage. Most people are happy simply getting their property back, especially if it means getting their lives back to normal as quickly as possible and even more so if the items have sentimental value.

How Common Damage Occurs

Damage to property and personal possessions can occur in many different ways. While damage as described above is common, fires are particularly troublesome as they can often result in multiple forms of damage. For example:

During a Fire: 

Fires can produce vast amounts of smoke that leave soot deposits on property. Depending on what has burned and the temperature of the fire, the soot produced by the fire may not only be mixed with a variety of chemicals and toxins. Additionally, physical properties of the soot can range from a fine powder to a thick sludge. Furthermore, because the particulate matter that makes up soot (and the chemical residue) is microscopic, it can not only penetrate deep into tiny crevices on the surface of an item, but it can also “sink” deep into the item itself. This is especially true of electronics which can actually attract soot and dirt because they can generate magnetic fields or become charged with static electricity.

Directly After a Fire Loss: 

The water that was used to extinguish the flames can discolor the surfaces of many types of items. Additionally, water can cause severe physical damage since the materials from which many items are made can actually absorb surprising amounts of water.

Well After a Fire Loss: 

Many types of materials and even the items themselves can retain significant levels of moisture. Moisture absorbed by an item that has not been properly dried, or that remains on or near the surface, may quickly become a breeding ground for molds and bacteria or other potentially hazardous residues.

Whether it is from a mold, dust, fire, water, or even nicotine, we will do our best to clean your belonging. Below are just a few examples of what can be cleaned with Ultrasonic Cleaning: 

• Carpets, Rugs
• Glassware
• Electronics
• Fans (electric)
• DVD & CD Players, VCRs
• Chandeliers
• China, Crystal
• Window Blinds
• Silverware
• Musical Instruments
• Wood Objects
• Lamps & Shades
• Kitchen Appliances
• Telephones, Cell
• Televisions, Computer Monitors, Computer Keyboards & Printer
• Dishes, Pots & Pans
• Artificial Plants, Flowers & Trees
• Baby Stroller, High-Chairs
• Radio
• Patio Furniture

We fully train our IICRC-certified technicians to choose the best cleaning solution and products to use in the ultrasonic cleaning process for optimum results. 
 
If you are concerned about cleaning your contents, give SERVPRO of Upper Darby a call today at (610) 352-0700 

Why SERVPRO of Upper Darby?

We have “PRO” in our name for a reason, and that’s because SERVPRO of Upper Darby is a trusted leader in the restoration industry. From the moment we respond to your loss to when all services are complete and even after, our trained professionals in and out of the office provide assistance to make the unexpected bearable. Don’t forget we provide 24-hour emergency service and are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. Not only can we handle your restoration and cleaning needs, we’re locally owned and operated and can respond immediately to your emergency.

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (610) 352-0700

SERVPRO of Upper Darby: A Higher Standard of Clean

3/31/2022 (Permalink)

Customers and employees will know that SERVPRO of Upper Darby, your #1 choice in cleanup and restoration, was there.

When Our Logo is on Your Door, Your Commitment to Clean is Clear

Getting back to business relies on getting your customers back through your doors. And that will only happen if they feel safe and secure in your space. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean with 40% of consumers citing store cleanliness as a top concern.  Are you ready to not only help keep your customers and employees safe but to communicate that you’ve chosen a higher standard of clean for all Americans?

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that goes way beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration, we stand on over 50 years of experience and expertise so you can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean for all Americans – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

CERTIFIED: SERVPRO CLEANED

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry-leading and proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. The program is grounded with our unique 3 Cs: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

1 – CONSULT

A Tailored Cleaning Program to Meet Your Needs

• Programs are based on a range of factors: type of industry, business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• We will assign you a Cleaning Protocol Specialist who understands your business.

2 – CLEAN

Proactive and COVID-19 Emergency Response Cleaning Program

• EPA-approved products, including our proprietary cleaning agent SERVPROXIDE, a hospital-grade disinfectant that is NSF certified for direct food surface use.
• Trained and experienced in biohazard cleaning and decontamination for porous and non-porous surfaces – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards for your facility set by the CDC.

3 – CERTIFY

A Commitment to Clean for Your Employees and Consumers

• Communication touchpoints include a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned window emblem, signage, marks for your digital footprint and more
• Leverage SERVPRO’s trusted brand to reassure your customers and employees that you are taking the steps needed to keep your space at a higher level of clean.

SERVPRO of Upper Darby is Here to Help®

We’re here to help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities, we all call home. Call us today at (610) 352-0700.

Lower Your Fire Cleanup Costs After A Fire In Upper Darby, PA

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Upper Darby prioritizes restoring your structure and belongings over replacement after a loss, saving you both time and money.

Fire damage is terrible as it is without considering just how much it can cost to return your home to its previous condition. However, there are be ways to minimize the cost and extent of damage which involves the hiring of emergency mitigations services.

Save Fire Damaged Possessions

Despite how your fire damaged property that may look like, there’s a good chance it is actually restorable. A fire restoration company like SERVPRO of Upper Darby can save many an heirloom and sentimental item that may feel difficult to part with. Even if it may not be able to be restored to preloss condition we do not dispose of anything with your permission. But it’s important to act quickly. Prompt fire cleanup and restoration is imperative because the items and structural materials found in your home—furniture, carpets, walls, drapes, and even ceilings—can absorb smoke. If too much time elapses between the fire damage and fire cleanup, the effects of smoke damage can last for months.

Lost Time Can Cost You Many Possessions

As previously mentioned, time is of the essence when it comes to affected belongings. The more time between the fire and restoration, the more costs you can incur and the fewer items you can restore. Depending on the extent of the fire damage, you may be able to save clothing, leather, books, photographs, kitchen items, furniture, and more.

Restored To Pre-Loss Condition

At SERVPRO of Upper Darby, it’s our job to clean and deodorize restorable items, often to preloss condition. So don’t throw anything out until you’re certain it must be replaced, as it is more affordable to restore items than to replace them. Save your property and save money, that’s a win/win in our book!

Why Choose SERVPRO of Upper Darby?

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialist are faster to any size disaster. Providing emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night. We are proud to be locally owned and operated, and serves Wayne, Radnor Township, Villanova, St. Davids, Ardmore Park, Haverford Township, Havertown, Upper Darby, Lansdowne, East Lansdowne, Drexel Hill, Clifton Heights, and the surrounding Delaware County communities.

Here’s How to Prevent Mold in Your Delaware County Business

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Upper Darby can handle remediations of any size! Our technicians use advanced technology and techniques to treat mold in your business.

Finding mold on your property is nightmare for both homeowners and business owners alike. While mold is a welcome when it comes to soy sauce, cheese, and other tasty things, it’s a major problem when found on belongings or on your structure. According to the EPA, mold can grow on almost any organic substance if oxygen and moisture are present.

Our technicians at SERVPRO of Upper Darby have seen mold in all types of commercial properties, from schools to shops to restaurants and many more, even hospitals. Common places mold can be found hiding include wallpaper, paneling, underneath carpets and pads, and on top of ceiling tiles.

Here are some of our SERVPRO suggestions on how to be mindful about mold on your commercial:

Inspect Your Commercial Property for Water Damage

Closely examine every area of your property to see if there are any places that have a lot of moisture. Any water damage should be dried within 48 hours; otherwise it’s the perfect recipe for mold.

Airflow Avoids Mold

Good ventilation is an easy way to prevent mold. Having the bathroom and kitchen doors open as much as possible can help by increasing air flow. If you want to use equipment, using a dehumidifier can keep areas dry and pleasant. But be careful; make sure it stays in good operating condition to avoid leakage. Follow the information provided by manufacturer, it will give you direction on how to clean and take care of the unit.

Monitor Moisture

Control the indoor moisture of your property and be careful about what materials are installed. In rooms that have moisture issues do not install carpet, like where there is a water fountain or classroom sink. You can buy a moisture reader from a local hardware store to measure for yourself; the EPA recommends humidity between 30-60%.

A Tidy, Dry Business is a Mold Free Business

Make sure that your employees pick up any wet items and avoid leaving wet boots and shoes in places that will absorb the moisture, and also keep both the floors and windows dry at all times, especially during rainy weather.

Build with Mold Resistant Materials

Consider using materials that have mold-resistant properties, such as certain paint or sheetrock. This will help in the common spaces that usually have moisture such the bathroom, kitchen, and break room.

Why SERVPRO of Upper Darby?

Mold can occur even if you do your best to prevent it, so when you find your place of business in a mold situation don’t hesitate to give SERVPRO of Upper Darby a call at 610-352-0700. We’ll arrange to have our estimator onsite to provide a scope of services and make it “like it never even happened.”