Recent Fire Damage Posts

Smoke Exposure Requires Specialized Cleaning and Odor Removal Services in Aitkin Home?

3/12/2024 (Permalink)

Smoke fills a room as it rises towards a smoke alarm. We are leaders in smoke damage restoration services in Aitkin County.

Our Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties teams are trained and certified to restore smoke and smoke odor in homes and commercial businesses in Aitkin. Smoke exposure from a fire necessitates professional cleaning for several critical reasons. Smoke leaves behind a unique signature based on what fueled the fire. Smoke contains a complex mixture of harmful chemicals, including carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and volatile organic compounds.

Microscopic smoke particles can infiltrate even the tiniest crevices and porous materials within a property. DIY cleaning methods often fail to reach and eliminate these particles, leaving lingering odors behind. Our technicians have the training, certification, experience, and specialized equipment to effectively remove smoke residues and contaminants from every surface, restoring the damage to preloss conditions. Homeowners have peace of mind, knowing that their property is safe and clean, "Like it never even happened."

Why are we a top choice for fire and smoke damage restoration services?

  • 24-Hour Emergency Service
  • Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
  • Highly Trained Technicians
  • A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
  • Independently Owned and Operated
  • Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business requires smoke and smoke odor cleaning and removal services, our local Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties teams are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-879-6141.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Chimney Fire Breaks Out in Cloquet Cabin?

2/6/2024 (Permalink)

A chimney fire spreads through a room. We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in Carlton County.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), most heating fires can be avoided by making sure your equipment is in good working condition. Our local Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties teams offer these heating safety tips for Cloquet residents from the NFPA:

  • Heating equipment and chimneys should be cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
  • Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from all heating equipment, including furnaces, fireplaces, wood stoves, and space heaters.
  • Create a three-foot (one meter) “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
  • Make sure space heaters are in good working order and used following the manufacturer’s instructions. Turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
  • Fireplaces should have a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container, which should be placed outside at least 10 feet away from your home.
  • All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
  • If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not light the appliance. Leave the home immediately and call your local fire department or gas company.
  • Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are located throughout the home; test them monthly to ensure that they’re working properly.

Call Us Today!

Cloquet residents and commercial businesses trust our local Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties teams to restore fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-879-6141.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Hill City Home Damaged by Space Heater Fire?

1/23/2024 (Permalink)

A lit space heater sits dangerously close to a bed. We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in Aitkin County.

More home fires occur during the winter months than at any other time of the year in the United States. Our local Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties teams want everyone in Hill City to be safe from fires this winter, and offer these tips for staying safe around space heaters from the Electrical Safety Foundation International:

Space Heater Safety Tips

  • Make sure your space heater has a label that a recognized testing laboratory lists.
  • Before using any space heater, read the manufacturer’s instructions and warning labels carefully.
  • Inspect heaters for cracked or broken plugs or loose connections before each use. If frayed, worn, or damaged, do not use the heater.
  • Never leave a space heater unattended. Turn it off when you’re leaving a room or going to sleep, and don’t let pets or children play too close to a space heater.
  • Never use a space heater to warm bedding, cook food, dry clothing, or thaw pipes.
  • Heaters must be kept at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including papers, clothing, and rugs.
  • Locate space heaters out of high-traffic areas and doorways where they may pose a tripping hazard.
  • Do not use an extension cord or power strip, which could overheat and result in a fire. Do not plug any other electrical devices into the same outlet as the heater.
  • Place space heaters on level, flat surfaces.
  • Always unplug and safely store the heater when it is not in use.

Call Us Today!

Hill City residents and commercial businesses trust our local Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties teams to restore fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-879-6141.

SERVPRO® franchise is independently owned and operated.

Malfunctioning Smoke Detector Identified Through Routine Inspection by Aitkin Homeowners?

12/12/2023 (Permalink)

People are inspecting a smoke detector. We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in Aitkin County.

Our Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties teams respond to fire damage emergencies more often during winter than at any other time of the year. Aitkin residents have come to rely on our highly trained teams to restore fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Smoke detectors play a critical role in alerting households to fire danger, and when working, they allow the occupants to get out of the house quickly and safely. Here are some general guidelines for how often smoke detectors should be inspected:

Monthly Inspections

It’s a good practice to test your smoke detectors once a month. Most smoke detectors have a test button that you can press to check if they're working optimally. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for testing.

Replace Batteries Annually

Change replaceable batteries at least once a year, even if they still appear to be working. Some people choose to do this when they change their clocks for daylight saving time as a convenient reminder.

Replace Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors have a limited lifespan, typically around 10 years for ionization detectors and 7-10 years for photoelectric detectors. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific model. If your smoke detectors are older than their recommended lifespan, it's best to replace them.

Regular Visual Inspections

Besides monthly testing and battery replacement, visually inspect your smoke detectors regularly to ensure they are free from dust, cobwebs, or other obstructions that could affect their performance. Clean them as needed.

Consider Interconnected Detectors

If your home has interconnected smoke detectors (where if one goes off, they all go off), ensure they are all in working order, as a malfunction in one could affect the entire system.

These are general guidelines, and you should always follow the manufacturer's recommendations and any local regulations or guidelines that may apply in your area. Regular maintenance and inspections can help ensure that your smoke detectors are ready to protect you and your family in the event of a fire.

Why are we a top choice for fire damage restoration services?

  • 24-Hour Emergency Service
  • Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
  • Highly Trained Technicians
  • A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
  • Locally Owned and Operated
  • Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Call Us Today!

When your residence or commercial business in Aitkin needs fire damage restoration services, our teams in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-879-6141.

SERVPRO® franchise is independently owned and operated.

Moose Lake Area Home Suffers Damage from Unattended Cooking Fire?

11/14/2023 (Permalink)

A kitchen is shown We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration services in Moose Lake!

Cooking fires continue to be the leading cause of residential fires in the United States, causing 49 percent of all home fires. SERVPRO of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties teams have years of experience restoring fire damage in the Moose Lake area. Residents know they can rely on us to perform every phase of a restoration from the initial cleanup phase to supervising any rebuilding services required to complete the restoration.

The NFPA offers these tips to follow if you have a cooking fire:

  • Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
  • Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
  • If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
  • Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turning off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
  • For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Call Us Today!

When you need fire damage restoration services in your Moose Lake area home or commercial business, SERVPRO of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties team will restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Overheated Air Fryer Fire Damages Kitchen in Aitkin Home?

11/7/2023 (Permalink)

A person uses a fire extinguisher to put out an air fryer fire. We restore fire damage “Like it never even happened” in Aitkin County.

Today, cooking appliances can range from the stovetop, oven, and microwave to electrical appliances like air fryers and slow cookers to prepare meals. Our local Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties teams want everyone to be safe from fire hazards from electronic cooking appliances and offer these tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to cook using an air fryer safely:

Air Fryer Safety Tips

  • Give your air fryer enough space. The air vents release heat and need airflow.
  • Do not leave the home when using the air fryer.
  • Make sure you clean grease and food debris after every use. Unplug and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.

Key Safety Tips

  • Always use cooking equipment, like air fryers, slow cookers, electric skillets, hot plates, griddles, etc. that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on where and how to use appliances
  • Remember to unplug all appliances when not in use.
  • Check cords regularly for damage. Do not use any appliance with a damaged cord.

Call Us Today!

When your Aitkin home or commercial business needs fire damage restoration services, our teams in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-879-6141.

SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties are independently owned and operated.

Lint Trap Dryer Fire in Floodwood Damages Laundry Room?

10/17/2023 (Permalink)

A person is cleaning out a lint trap. St. Louis County residents trust us to restore fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), clothes dryers cause fire damage if they are not routinely cleaned. Our local Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties team is highly trained and certified to restore fire damage in Floodwood, and offer these safety tips from the NFPA for keeping your clothes dryer working optimally:

  • Make sure you clean the lint filter before or after each load of laundry. Remove lint that has collected around the drum.
  • Do not use the dryer without a lint filter.
  • Rigid or flexible metal venting material should be used to sustain proper air flow and drying time.
  • Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating. Once a year, or more often if you notice that it is taking longer than normal for your clothes to dry, clean lint out of the vent pipe or have a dryer lint removal service do it for you.
  • Keep dryers in good working order. Gas dryers should be inspected by a qualified professional to make sure that the gas line and connection are intact and free of leaks.
  • Make sure the right plug and outlet are used and that the machine is connected properly.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and don’t overload your dryer.
  • Turn the dryer off if you leave home or when you go to bed.

Call Us Today!

When you have fire damage in your home or business in Floodwood, our team in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Cooking Oil Ignites and Starts a Fire in Moose Lake Kitchen?

10/3/2023 (Permalink)

A cooking fire spreads flames rapidly throughout a kitchen. We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Carlton County.

October is Residential Fire Awareness Month, dedicated to raising fire safety awareness to ensure homes and families are protected. Our local Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties team responds to fire damage emergencies every year in Moose Lake and sometimes they involve cooking fires. Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to help people cook with oil safely:

Safety considerations for cooking with oil
  • Always stay in the kitchen when frying on the stovetop
  • Keep an eye on what you fry. If you see wisps of smoke or the oil smells, immediately turn off the burner and/or carefully remove the pan from the burner. Smoke is a danger sign that the oil is too hot.
  • Heat the oil slowly to the temperature you need for frying or sautéing.
  • Add food gently to the pot or pan so the oil does not splatter.
  • Always cook with a lid beside your pan. If you have a fire, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Do not remove the cover because the fire could start again. Let the pan cool for a long time. Never throw water on the fire.
  • If the fire does not go out or you don’t feel comfortable sliding a lid over the pan, get everyone out of your home. Call the fire department from outside.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Moose Lake has fire damage, our team in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Circuit Overload Causes Toaster Fire in Virginia, Minnesota, Home?

8/22/2023 (Permalink)

A toaster is shown with fire damage. We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in St. Louis County.

You never know when a home appliance will short circuit and cause fire damage to your Virginia, Minnesota home. Our local Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties teams offer these tips from our website for things you can and should not do while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After a Fire

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets
  • Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork
  • Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas
  • If the electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator and prop the doors open
  • Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil
  • Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves
  • Change the HVAC filter
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers

What NOT To Do After a Fire

  • Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us
  • Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without consulting an authorized repair service
  • Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat, or water
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
  • Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Virginia, Minnesota, has fire damage, our team in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Services to Restore Fire-Damaged Documents and Photos in Aitkin?

8/7/2023 (Permalink)

A book is on fire. We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Aitkin County.

Our local Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties teams respond to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Aitkin. Even in rooms not directly affected by the fire, there will be smoke and soot exposure, leaving an oily and extremely difficult-to-remove film on every surface and household item. Our technicians are highly trained and certified to perform a full range of cleanup and restoration services, including document and photograph drying.

Document / Photograph Drying

When your valuable documents, books, and photographs are damaged by water used to extinguish a fire, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the water damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-water damage condition, our restoration technicians can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. 

Depending on the type of documents and the level of water damage, we have five options for the restoration of documents:

  • Air Drying
  • Dehumidification
  • Freezer Drying
  • Vacuum Freeze Drying
  • Vacuum Thermal Drying

Call Us Today!

When you have fire damage in your home or commercial property and need document and photo drying and restoration services, our team in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties can help. We have established relationships with all major insurance companies and we can assist you with the insurance process and paperwork. Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Aitkin Home Saved from Fire by Smoke Detector?

7/11/2023 (Permalink)

A person replaces a battery in a smoke detector. We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in St. Louis County.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), reports that smoke alarms play an important role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. Our local Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties teams respond to fire damage emergencies in Aitkin throughout the year and offer these smoke alarm safety tips from the NFPA:

  • A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. 
  • Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound. 
  • Large homes may need extra smoke alarms
  • Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
  • Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions yet mitigate false alarms
  • When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside
  • Replace all smoke alarms in your home every ten years

Call Us Today!

The NFPA reports that every year there are about 343,100 home-based fires in the United States, and some of these fires could have been prevented by working smoke detectors. When your home or commercial business has fire damage, our local team in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties will restore the damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Pets Setting Fires in Mountain Iron Homes?

6/20/2023 (Permalink)

A curious cat sits close to a lit candle. We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in St. Louis County.

Do you know that your pet could start a fire in your home? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), pets are responsible for starting over 750 home fires each year. Pets are curious by nature, and they can start fires by bumping into, turning on, or knocking over cooking equipment. Mountain Iron residents rely on our local Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties teams to restore fire damage quickly and efficiently.

Here are some pet fire safety tips from the NFPA to keep your pets safe around fire:

  • Keep pets away from stoves and countertops
  • Keep pets away from candles, lamps, and space heaters
  • Always use a metal or heat-tempered glass screen on a fireplace and keep it in place
  • Keep pets away from a chimney’s outside vents.
  • Have a “pet-free zone” of at least three feet away from the fireplace. Glass doors and screens can stay dangerously hot for several hours after the fire goes out.
  • Some pets are chewers. Watch pets to make sure they don’t chew through electrical cords. Have any problems checked by a professional.

Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency in your home or commercial business in Mountain Iron, our local team in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties will restore the damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Can I Prevent a Cooking Fire in My Virginia Home?

3/14/2023 (Permalink)

An oven mitt sitting too close to an open flame catches fire. We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in St. Louis County.

Our local team in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties is trained and certified to restore fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Cooking fires are one of the leading causes of home fires in the United States. Here are some tips for cooking safely from the National Fire Protection Association

What you should know about home cooking safety
  • Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop
  • Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food
  • If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking
  • Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains — away from your stovetop
If you have a cooking fire
  • Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire
  • Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave
  • If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out
  • Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires
  • For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed

Call Us Today!

Virginia residents and businesses can rely on our team of professionals in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties to restore their fire damage quickly and efficiently. Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Furnace Puff Backs Cause Soot Damage in Aitkin Home?

3/7/2023 (Permalink)

Sooty black smoke fills the air. We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in Aitkin County.

Our local team in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties is trained and certified to clean and restore furnace puff back damage “Like it never even happened.” Puff backs that occur in a forced-air heating system can send soot traveling through the entire house, bringing soot with the warm air through the home’s ventilation system. When a puff back occurs in a forced-air heating system, soot can be released into closed areas such as closets and rooms with closed doors.

Here are some symptoms of furnace puff backs:

·      Odors, noises, and soot around the boiler or furnace room

·      Visual signs of debris. The heating system needs to be cleaned and serviced if you see soot, rust flakes, and debris in the flue vent connector.

Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every fire damage situation is unique and requires a different solution, but the general process stays the same.

  1. Emergency Contact
  2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
  3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
  4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
  5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
  6. Cleaning and Repair
  7. Restoration

Call Us Today!

Aitkin residents and businesses can rely on our team of professionals in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties for all their emergency fire damage restoration needs. Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Home Heating Equipment Causes Fires in Aitkin?

1/17/2023 (Permalink)

Heated coils radiate heat on a home's wall heater. We respond to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Aitkin County.

Our teams in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties restore fire damage "Like it never even happened." Our technicians are highly trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the nonprofit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industries. Here are some statistics from the National Fire Protection Association on heating equipment fires:

  • Heating equipment is a leading cause of fires in U.S. homes. Local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 48,530 fires involving heating equipment each year in 2014-2018. These fires resulted in annual losses of 500 civilian deaths, 1,350 civilian injuries, and $1.1 billion in direct property damage.
  • Heating equipment caused one in seven home structure fires (14%) that took place in 2014–2018 and 19% of home fire deaths
  • The leading factor contributing to home heating fires (25%) was failure to clean, principally from solid-fueled heating equipment, primarily chimneys
  • Over half (54%) of the home heating fire deaths were caused by having heating equipment too close to things that can burn, such as upholstered furniture, clothing, mattress, or bedding
  • A vast majority of home heating fire deaths (81%) involved stationary or portable space heaters
  • Nearly half (48%) of all home heating fires occurred in January, February, and December

Call Us Today!

Fire damage is more common during the winter months. When you have a fire damage emergency in your Aitkin home or business, our professionals in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Christmas Tree Fire Safety Tips for Mountain Iron Families?

12/13/2022 (Permalink)

Colorful electric lights sit on a wooden table. We restore fire damage in St. Louis County homes.

Our teams in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties wish everyone in Mountain Iron a safe and fire-damage-free winter holiday season. Here are some Christmas tree safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association

PICKING THE TREE 

  • Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched 

PLACING THE TREE 

  • Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2 inches from the base of the trunk 
  • Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights 
  • Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit 
  • Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily. 

LIGHTING THE TREE 

  • Use lights that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory, and some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use. 
  • Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect. 
  • Never use lit candles to decorate the tree 
  • Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed 

Call Us Today!  

We are Here to Help ® when you have a fire damage emergency in your home or commercial business in Mountain Iron. We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-879-6141.  

Franchises are independently owned and operated. 

Thanksgiving Day Turkey Fryer Fire in Mountain Iron?

11/15/2022 (Permalink)

A person is putting a turkey in a turkey fryer. We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in St. Louis County.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), there were 1630 reported home cooking fires on Thanksgiving in 2017. Our teams in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties wish everyone in Mountain Iron a Happy Thanksgiving! Every year we hear about turkey fryer fires.

The NFPA strongly discourages turkey fryers because they can cause severe burns, injuries, and property damage. They recommend getting a fried turkey from a grocery store, restaurant, or another food retailer. Our fire restoration technicians have witnessed many instances of fried turkey fires. Here are some of the more common reasons turkey fryers catch on fire:

  • Too much oil is placed in the fryer without factoring in the oil displacement by the bird. The oil spills over the side and ignites with the burner below.
  • Sometimes the fryers are knocked over by curious pets or clumsy guests
  • Other times, the fryer is positioned next to combustible materials, like wooden tables or fences, and when the fryers tip over, the oil and fuel ignite and catch fire

Call Us Today!

Our local team in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties is Here to Help ® when your Mountain Iron home or commercial business has a fire damage emergency. We’ll restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Are the Top Causes of Fire Damage in Aitkin?

10/17/2022 (Permalink)

An arson sign is posted in front of a house damaged by fire. We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration in Aitkin County.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that more home fires and fire casualties result from five sources: cooking, heating, electrical distribution, lighting equipment, intentional fire setting, and smoking materials. Our teams in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties have been restoring fire damage for Aitkin residents for years. Here are some more statistics from the NFPA related to fire damage:

  • More than one-quarter (26 percent) of reported fires in 2015-2019 occurred in homes. Even worse, three-quarters (75 percent) of civilian fire deaths and almost three-quarters (72 percent) of all reported injuries were caused by home fires.
  • During these five years, United States fire departments responded to an estimated average of 346,800 home structure fires per year. These fires caused an annual average of 2,620 civilian deaths, 11,070 civilian fire injuries, and $7.3 billion in direct property damage.
  • Over the five years of 2015–2019, cooking was the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries, while smoking was the leading cause of home fire deaths.

Call Us Today!

Home fires can happen at any time for many reasons. Our local team in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties is Here to Help ® when your Aitkin home or business has fire damage. Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do While Waiting for Help to Arrive if I Have Fire Damage in Virginia?

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Charred wood is shown on a wall with fire damage. We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration in St. Louis County.

Fires carry unique signatures based on what burned. Our Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties offer these tips for Virginia residents for things you can do while waiting for professional help to arrive:  

What To Do After A Fire

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets
  • Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork
  • Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas
  • If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open
  • Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil
  • Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves
  • Change the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) filter
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers

Do Not Do This After a Fire

  • Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us
  • Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without consulting an authorized repair service
  • Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that stored near the fire, heat, or water
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
  • Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Call Us!

When your home or business has fire damage in Virginia, our local team in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties can help. Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What is the Process For Restoring Fire Damage in Hill City?

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

A closeup of a wall with melted paint and soot damage after a fire. We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Aitkin County.

Our Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties follow a comprehensive fire restoration process for all fire loss events in Hill City:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event to help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

We will board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes most of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. 

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business has fire damage in Hill City, our local team in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Is Composting Vegetation a Good Alternative to Prevent Fire Damage in Virginia?

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

Roaring campfire We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in St. Louis County.

Do you know that escaped yard debris burns are the number one cause of wildfires in Minnesota? The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages people to burn vegetation like grass, leaves, brush, and untreated lumber before the snow melts each year. If this is not possible, they suggest using chipping and composting methods as an alternative to burning. Our Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties teams respond to fire damage emergencies each year in Virginia and share these tips from the DNR about composting:

Greens: Green leaves, plant trimmings, and green grass clippings. These materials provide nitrogen and act as a source of protein for the microbes.

Browns: Wood chips, sawdust, twigs, brown grass, brown leaves, straw, and shredded newspaper (recycle if not needed) are carbon sources that provide energy for the microbes.

Tips:

  • When you use grass clippings, do so sparingly and be sure to mix them into your pile—not doing so can cause odors
  • Food scraps—vegetables, fruits, coffee grounds, and tea bags—also provide nitrogen but may attract pests. If you decide to use food scraps, do so cautiously
  • Monitor your compost pile and remove or treat any weeds that germinate

Call Us!

When your Aitkin home or commercial business has fire damage, our Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Extension Cord Fire in Aitkin Home?

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

A pile of extension cords is shown. We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Aitkin County.

Our team in Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties restores fire damage every year. Extension cords can cause severe injury and death when used improperly. Here are some extension cord safety tips from The Electrical Safety Foundation International (EFSI):

  • Do not overload extension cords or allow them to run through water or snow on the ground
  • Do not substitute extension cords for permanent wiring
  • Do not run through walls, doorways, ceilings, or floors
  • Do not use an extension cord for more than one appliance
  • Multiple plug outlets must be plugged directly into mounted electrical receptacles; they cannot be chained together
  • Make sure the extension cord or temporary power strip is rated for the products to be plugged in and is marked for either indoor or outdoor use
  • Never use a cord that feels hot or is damaged in any way
  • Never use three-prong plugs with outlets with only two slots for the plug. Do not cut off the ground pin to force a fit. Never force a plug into an outlet if it doesn’t fit.
  • Buy only cords approved by an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Intertek (ETL), or Canadian Standards Association (CSA)

Call Us Today!

When your Aitkin home or business has fire damage, our Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Smoke Alarm Maintenance and Safety Tips for Mountain Iron?

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke rises towards a second floor, where a small child is descending the stairs. We are trusted leaders in fire restoration services in St. Louis County.

Our Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties team wants Mountain Iron residents to be ready in the event of a fire emergency. Fire alarms, when working properly, play an important role in home safety as they alert the occupants to get outside quickly. Here are some smoke alarm safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Smoke Alarm Safety
  • A closed-door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. 
  • Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound. 
  • Large homes may need extra smoke alarms
  • Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
  • Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions yet mitigate false alarms
  • When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside
  • Replace all smoke alarms in your home every ten years

Call Us Today!

When your Mountain Iron home or commercial business has a fire damage emergency, our Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties team is Here to Help. ® We typically arrive onsite within four hours of your call. Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Fire Damage Restoration Services in Aitkin?

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

The lower part of a fence is blackened by smoke and soot from a fire. We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Aitkin County.

Although every fire loss is different, SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties uses the same comprehensive restoration process for all.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

We will board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes most of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. 

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Aitkin has fire damage, SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Chimney Safety Tips for Hermantown?

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke is rising from a home’s chimney. We restore fire damage in St. Louis County.

SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties offers these tips from Federal Emergency Management Agency for preventing creosote buildup that can cause chimney fires:

Limited air supply and unseasoned wood encourage the buildup of creosote. To avoid that buildup,

do not restrict the air supply by:

  • Closing the glass doors
  • Not opening the damper wide enough
  • The longer the smoke is in the flue, the more likely it is that creosote will form
  • By closing down the stove damper or air inlets on a wood stove too soon or too much
  • Do not burn unseasoned wood
  • In the case of wood stoves, overloading the firebox with wood in an attempt to get a longer burn time also contributes to creosote buildup

Fireplace and Woodstove Safety

  • Keep a glass or metal screen in front of the fireplace to prevent embers or sparks from jumping out
  • Do not burn paper in your fireplace or woodstove
  • Put ashes in a metal container with a lid, outside, at least three feet from your home
  • Put the fire out before you go to sleep or leave your home

Call Us!

Hermantown residents and businesses can rely on SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties to retore fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Holiday Fire Prevention Tips for Aitkin?

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Colorful electric holiday lights are shown. We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Aitkin County.

SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties has been restoring fire damage for Aitkin residents and businesses for years. The National Fire Protection Association offers these tips for safe holidays:

  • Test your smoke alarms and tell guests about your home fire escape plan
  • Keep children and pets away from lit candles
  • Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet
  • Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop
  • Ask smokers to smoke outside. Remind smokers to keep their smoking materials with them so young children do not touch them.
  • Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers. Wet cigarette butts with water before discarding them.
  • Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
  • Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn
  • Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both
  • Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections
  • Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged
  • Keep decorations away from windows and doors

Call Us Today!

When your Aitkin home or business needs emergency fire restoration services, SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties has a team of highly trained technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at 218-879-6141.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Candle Safety Tips for Virginia?

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

A Jacko lantern is shown lit by a candle. We restore fire damage in St. Louis County.

Do you use candles during Halloween? SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties respond to fire damage emergencies often during the fall and winter months. According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), candles are among the leading causes of United States home fires. Here are some candle safety tips from the NFPA:

  • Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep.
  • Keep candles at least 1 foot away from anything that can burn
  • Use candle holders that are sturdy, and won’t tip over easily
  • Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface
  • 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
  • Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles.
  • Think about using flameless candles in your home. They look and smell like real candles.

Call Us!

When you need fire damage restoration services for your Virginia home or business, SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties has a team of highly trained technicians ready to assist you. Call us today at 218-879-6141. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Escape Planning Tips for Esko?

9/6/2021 (Permalink)

A fire escape plan is shown. We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Carlton County.

SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties have been restoring fire damage in the Esko area for years. We have seen the difference having a good fire escape plan in place can make and offer these escape planning tips for the National Fire Protection Association:

  • Make a home escape plan. Draw a map of your home showing all of the doors and windows. Discuss the plan with everyone in your home.
  • Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily.
  • Have a designated place (tree, mailbox, light pole) a safe distance away from the house where everyone should meet.
  • Practice your home fire drill at night and during the day with everyone in your home, twice a year
  • Practice using different ways out
  • Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them
  • Close doors behind you as you leave

Call Us!

When you need fire restoration services for your Esko home or business, SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties has a team of highly trained technicians ready to assist you. Call us today at 218-879-6141. We’ll clean and restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Damage Safety Tips for Moose Lake?

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

A person is wiping plant leaves after a fire. Carlton County residents rely on us to restore their fire-damaged belongings.

Tips on what to do while waiting for help to arrive.

When you need emergency fire restoration services, SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties are Here to Help. ® We typically arrive onsite within four hours of your call. Here are some fire damage emergency tips from our website covering things you can do while waiting for help to arrive:

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets
  • Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork
  • Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas
  • If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open
  • Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil
  • Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves
  • Change the heating, ventilation, and air conditioner (HVAC) filter
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers

Call Us!

When you need fire restoration services for your Moose Lake home or business, SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties has a team of highly trained technicians ready to assist you. Call us today at 218-879-6141. We’ll clean and restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Extinguisher Safety Tips for Floodwood?

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

A person is seen using a fire extinguisher to put out a fire. We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in St. Louis County. County.

SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year in Floodwood. Here are some safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association for using portable fire extinguishers:

Safety Tips

  • For the home, select a multi-purpose extinguisher (can be used on all types of home fires) that is large enough to put out a small fire, but not so heavy as to be difficult to handle
  • Choose a fire extinguisher that carries the label of an independent testing laboratory
  • Read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher and become familiar with its parts and operation before a fire breaks out. Local fire departments or fire equipment distributors often offer hands-on fire extinguisher training.
  • Install fire extinguishers close to an exit and keep your back to a clear exit when you use the device so you can make an easy escape if the fire cannot be controlled. If the room fills with smoke, leave immediately.
  • Know when to go. Fire extinguishers are one element of a fire response plan, but the primary element is safe escape. Every household should have a home fire escape plan and working smoke alarms.

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties has a team of fire restoration technicians on-call to respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Floodwood. Call us today at 218-879-6141. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Safety Tips for Aitkin Babysitters?

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

A young girl is making cookies with her babysitter. We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Aitkin County.

SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year in Aitkin. Here are some fire babysitting safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Show the babysitter your home escape plan and make sure the babysitter understands:

  • There are two ways out of every room
  • Where the outdoor meeting place is located
  • The fire department or emergency phone number
  • The address of the home
  • How to unlock all doors and windows
  • Keeps your child at least three feet away from the stove
  • Keeps your child at least three feet away from the microwave oven
  • Never leaves the room while cooking
  • Keeps anything that can catch fire away from the stovetop
  • Keeps pets off surfaces and countertops
  • Get out of the home quickly with your child to safety when the smoke alarm sounds
  • Use the second way out if smoke is in the way
  • Get low and go under the smoke to the exit if an escape must be made through smoke
  • Store matches and lighters out of your child’s reach
  • Candles should not be used by your babysitter
  • Make sure your babysitter keeps a three-foot “kid-free zone” around space heaters

Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties has a team of highly trained restoration technicians on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day. Call us today at 218-879-6141. We’ll restore your fire damage in Aitkin, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties is Independently Owned and Operated.

Wildfire Preparedness for Carlton?

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

A large pile of brush is on fire. We mitigate fire damage 24-hours a day in Carlton County.

Defensible Space for Carlton

Wildfires are common in northern Minnesota, and SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties know how devastating fire damage can be. Here are some tips for creating defensible space around your home from the National Fire Protection Association:

VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

To increase your home’s chance of surviving a wildfire, choose fire-resistant building materials and limit the amount of flammable vegetation in the three home ignition zones. The zones include the Immediate Zone: (zero to five feet around the house), the Intermediate Zone (five to thirty feet), and the Extended Zone (thirty to one hundred feet).

LANDSCAPING AND MAINTENANCE

To reduce ember ignitions and fire spread, trim branches that overhang the home, porch, and deck and prune branches of large trees up to six to ten feet (depending on their height) from the ground. Remove plants containing resins, oils, and waxes. Use crushed stone or gravel instead of flammable mulches in the Immediate Zone (zero to five feet around the house). Keep your landscape in good condition.

It is also a good idea to ensure your home and neighborhood have legible and clearly marked street names and numbers. Driveways should be at least twelve feet wide with a vertical clearance of fifteen feet for emergency vehicle access.

Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency in Carlton, SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 218-879-6141.

SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Prevention Tips for Parents in Aitkin.

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Two children are silhouetted against the backdrop of a structure fire blazing in the distance at night. We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Aitkin County!

Fire Safety for Families

At SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties, we have responded to fire damage emergencies over the years where children or teenagers were involved. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) intervention strategies are very important when teaching children and young people about fire safety. Here are some fire safety tips and strategies from the NFPA to help keep you and your family safe: 

  • Teach young children to never touch matches or lighters. They must go tell a grown-up when matches or lighters are found
  • Establish clear rules and consequences about unsupervised and unauthorized uses of fire
  • Be a good example! Always use fire sources — matches, lighters, candles, fireplaces, and campfires — in a safe manner. Never treat them as toys, or children may imitate you
  • Talk with children about what their friends or other children are doing with fire. What are they seeing online in video games, on TV, in movies, and on social media? Teach them specific ways to resist the peer pressure to misuse fire
  • Give praise for showing respect and age-appropriate responsible behavior toward fire

Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties is Here to Help. ® We have a team of highly trained restoration technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day in the Aitkin area. Call us today at 218-879-6141. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire-damaged Home in Aitkin?

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke is shown rising out of windows and the roof of a home on fire. We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Aitkin County.

Where there’s smoke, there’s fire damage.

Thankfully the fire in this picture was discovered and reported before it became a major loss. Even though most of the damage was concentrated on the top floor, there was still smoke damage in other areas of the house. SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties is often the second group to arrive on site after the firefighters leave the premise of a fire-damaged home. We understand that this is a difficult and stressful situation, and we will always treat you and your family with great care and empathy for what you are going through.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), local fire departments responded to about 1.3 million fires in 2019. Heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths. Here are some home heating safety tips from the NFPA:

  • Install wood-burning stoves following manufacturer’s instructions or have a professional do the installation.
  • All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business has a fire damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties is Here to Help. ® We have a team of highly trained restoration technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day in Aitkin. Call us today at 218-879-6141.

SERVPRO® of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties is Independently Owned and Operated.

Above and Beyond in Chisholm

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Before and After photos of soot removal Before and after

Soot is not just a powder-like substance; instead, it is black, sticky and will include a mixture of oil that is difficult to clean. Walls, ceilings, carpets, furniture and curtains get coated with a fine film of soot and smoky streaks. Typically, the damage is worse with a forced-air -heating system or central air-conditioning, because the duct work provides a path through the house, even into closets. In addition to the soot, a puff back causes a foul odor to permeate your home. Oil-based soot is extremely difficult to remove and needs to be professionally cleaned as soon as possible.

We here at SERVPRO of Aitkin, Carlton and St Louis Counties go above and beyond to get it cleaned “Like it never even happened.”

If you experience the unpleasant event of a puffback or fire damages, give us a call at 218-879-6141

Board up in Mt. Iron after fire

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

House boarded up after fire SERVPRO is open 24/7 and ready to be your solution.

Fortunately, no one was home when the fire took place, and no one got hurt. Unfortunate that the home was a total loss. SERVPRO was called to do an emergency board up to prevent further damages and to protect from vandals or critters getting inside.

What not to do after the fire is out

  • Don’t enter your home until you have been given permission that it is safe
  • Don’t turn on gas, water or electricity until a professional has deemed it safe to do so
  • Don’t try to clean the soot damage or smoke damage yourself

What are some common causes of fire damages?

  • Candles
  • Smoking
  • Cooking with oil or grease
  • Electrical
  • Lightning strikes
  • Space heaters
  • Faulty cords
  • Creosote buildup in chimneys and Fireplaces
  • Fireworks
  • Turkey Fryers
  • Christmas tree fires

Extra Precautions

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

Burnt dryer pulled outside Dryer Fire

Be sure to clean your lint trap after each and every load that is dried in your dryer. This precaution can help you avoid a fire in your dryer and in turn save the lives of your loved ones.

After removing the lint, if there are any tough spots;

  1. Rinse the lint trap with water
  2. Apply a small amount of dish soup
  3. Brush gently to scrub clean
  4. Rinse thoroughly

With just a little effort put forth, you can save a little money as your dryer runs more efficiently. More importantly, you could be saving lives by avoiding a fire.

Other tips to aid in avoiding a fire in your dryer are;

  • Clean the outside vent
  • Clean vent hoses
  • Keep the machine clean
  • Keep the area around the dryer clutter free and clean

Soot Removal

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Technician power washing soot off the wall Our technician removing soot after the fire

Equipment in the pole barn caught on fire causing a lot of soot damage for this Bemidji homeowner. SERVPRO of Bemidji, Grand Rapids and Hibbing got in there quickly and started the restoration process.

Our Technicians follow Certified Professional guidelines to remove soot after a fire by cleaning bottom to top to avoid streaking. Ceilings are done last. To reduce chances of mold growth, the areas cleaned will be wiped dry. Once completely dry, painting would be done if needed.

What NOT to do after a fire:

  • Do not attempt to clean it yourself. Soot is dangerous to breathe and if surfaces are not properly washed, the damage can be made worse.
  • Do not use any canned or packaged food that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
  • Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet as the wiring may be damaged.

Aitkin, Carlton and W St. Louis Counties including; CROMWELL RESIDENTS:

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Fire extinguisher clean up Microwave fire

A fire extinguisher is a device used to put out or control small fires. There are four classes of extinguishers that put out different types of fire. 

A,B,C & D

Class A - Puts out ordinary flammables such as wood and paper.

Class B - For use on ignitable liquids like grease, gas and oil.

Class C - Are for use on electrical fires

Class D - Are made for burnable metals

Some extinguishers will be labeled for more than one class. 

To use is simple just remember the word PASS.

P = Pull the pin

A = Aim at the base of the fire from a safe distance

S = Squeeze handles together slowly

S = Sway nozzle from side to side

To safely clean up fire extinguisher dust, you can trust SERVPRO to get the job done. Just give us a call at 218-879-6141

Aitkin, Carlton and W St. Louis Counties including; MCGREGOR RESIDENTS:

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Soot Commercial Fire

Dry cleaning is commonly the method used in removing soot and the use of a dry chemical sponge is used in this process. The sponge is 100% natural rubber and is non-abrasive.

Another method used is Wet cleaning which uses a specialized solution to remove the soot. This method should be done with caution on porous surfaces.

The soot damage should be treated or properly removed as soon as possible as tiny particles of the soot can be inhaled. Black soot can be mistaken for mold. Sometimes black soot can be from scented candles as the oils in the candle do not burn completely, then the oil enters the air and turns into black soot.

SERVPRO is certified in the current methods of fire, smoke and soot removal. We are available 24/7 to help restore "Like it never even happened."

Call today for an assessment at 218-879-6141

Ultrasonic Cleaning After A Fire

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Ultrasonic Cleaning is commonly used in many different industries such as jewelers and medical facilities. Ultrasonic cleaning is the process of using high pressured waves with a cleaning solution to effectively clean an object. This type of cleaning removes particles that are adhered to an item especially in hard to reach places. Metals, plastics, glass, rubber and ceramics can be used in the ultrasonic machine. 

Ultrasonic cleaning in the restoration industry is applied and used to remove residue from fire, smoke and water losses. 

Should your commercial or residential property suffer fire or water damage and contents are damaged, contact us at SERVPRO of Aitkin, Carlton and West St. Louis Counties at (218)8789-6141 We have the tools and resources making it "Like it never even happened."

Cooking Safety Tips and Prevention

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Cooking fires are the #1 cause of home fires and injuries according to the NFPA.  The cause is unattended cooking so it is important to be alert and make sure you never leave the kitchen while cooking. A kitchen fire, regardless of the size, can be overwhelming. Most kitchen fires begin on the stove and the damage can affect the entire kitchen along with other areas in the home including walls, ceilings and appliances. A cooking fire is usually started by grease, oil or food which can make cleanup more difficult. 

Should you ever experience a kitchen fire that has left you with smoke, soot or fire damage, our office here at SERVPRO of Aitkin, Carlton and West St. Louis Counties  is available 24/7 to help with the cleanup whether it be the building structure or your personal property.

A few tips to remember in the kitchen:

  • If a small grease fire starts in a pan, smother the flames by carefully sliding a lid over the pan. Turn off the burner but do not remove the pan. 
  • Stay in the kitchen while you cook
  • Remove items such as towels, plastic utensils and pot holders that can catch fire away from stove 
  • Keep cooking surfaces clean to prevent food & grease build up
  • Make sure you have a working smoke alarm
  • Make sure you kitchen has a fire extinguisher
  • If you need to lave the room, be sure to turn the stove off

SERVPRO of Aitkin, Carlton and West St. Louis Counties 

Tips to Avoid a Lint Fire

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Pull the lint trap from the top or front of the dryer and remove the lint by hand. Pull the lint trap from the top or front of the dryer and remove the lint by hand.

It only takes a load or two of laundry to fill up the lint trap in your dryer. Not only does this cut down the functional efficiency of the dryer, but it also creates the risk of a lint fire and, ultimately, a house fire. Protect your home and family from dryer related damages and a visit from fire damage cleanup and restoration professionals by cleaning the lint trap:

Pull the lint trap from the top or front of the dryer and remove the lint by hand. If there's stubborn debris, rinse the filter under a little bit of water.
After removing the screen filter, use your vacuum attachment to keep lint away from the interior of the dryer and prevent clogs.
Give the trap a more thorough cleaning by unplugging the dryer and vacuuming out the interior and exterior hoses and vents. This deep cleaning step should be completed every six months or more often.

To ensure your lint trap is completely clean and free from lint and residue, follow these steps to deep clean a dryer lint trap.

Step 1 – Remove all surface lint from the lint trap.
Step 2 – Wet the lint trap screen and apply a small amount of dish soap.
Step 3 – Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the screen until all the waxy residue is gone.
Step 4 – Rinse the screen thoroughly.


It doesn't take much effort to prevent a dryer fire, and your efforts will result in financial savings and a dryer in top working condition.

Dryer Maintenance for Safe Operation
Removing lint from the trap isn't the only maintenance step you can take to reduce the risk of a lint fire. You can also wipe down the door of the dryer, clean out the outside vent, and avoid setting the temperature of the dryer too high. Only run the dryer when you have a full load but don't overfill the appliance.

Tips for Improved Efficiency
There are a few other tips you can use to get the best results from this appliance. For example, when you do back-to-back loads of laundry, moving a second load into the dryer right after the first load comes out, there's residual heat and the dryer won't have to work so hard the second time around. If you run your load in the washing machine through an extra spin cycle, there is less water for the dryer to remove. Finally, add a dry towel to your load in the dryer; this helps your clothes get dry faster.
The best way to avoid a lint fire is to clean the lint trap each time your run a load through the appliance. Complete a more thorough cleaning two or three times a year to boost efficiency and improve safety. Protect your northern Minnesota home and family with these simple maintenance steps.

Puff Backs...

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

Soot Web If you see this in your home call SERVPRO of Aitkin, Carlton & W. St. Louis Counties!

Despite the increasing number of viable alternative heating methods available on the market, a large number of people in Northern Minnesota still rely on oil furnaces to heat their homes and businesses. Modern heating systems are very reliable and dependable; most issues can be readily addressed by a qualified professional. Unfortunately, the malfunction commonly known as the "puff back" is not so easily dealt with.

A puffback is an explosion inside the burner chamber of the furnace, similar to the backfiring of a car. While there are a number of causes - such as excessive debris or a buildup of oil fumes prior to burner ignition - the resulting explosion can shoot soot and debris through the furnace's exhaust system...and into your home. When the soot gets pushed throughout the house it can create soot webs. It may look as if you never clean, but guess what those webs that your seeing in the corners are created by the soot.

This soot is not just a powder-like substance; instead, it is black, sticky and will include a mixture of oil that is difficult to clean. Walls, ceilings, carpets, furniture and curtains are coated with a fine film of soot and smoky streaks. Typically, the damage is worse with a forced-air -heating system or central air-conditioning, because the duct work provides a path through the house, even into closets. In addition to the soot, a puff back causes a foul odor to permeate your home. Oil-based soot is extremely difficult to remove and needs to be cleaned as soon as possible.

Fortunately, SERVPRO of Beverly/Cape Ann has the knowledge and experience to take care of difficult problems such as this. Since each puffback 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 home or business, while also treating your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

In the event of a puffback - or any fire, smoke or water emergency - call SERVPRO of Aitkin, Carlton & W. St. Louis Counties!

Call us at 218-879-6141!

Smoke Damage

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke damage can be very detrimental to your health and your property. The smoke can leave discoloration, corrosion, and odor all over your household items. It also can affect your health and you should stay away from the area until professionals have cleared it out and it is safe to go back inside. Smoke damage can happen to your property even when it’s not your property affected by the fire. If your neighbor has a fire and your windows were open, or if there is a wild fire in a nearby field; you can still get smoke damage. Our team of experts at SERVPRO Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties has the training and equipment to clean and restore your home from any type of smoke damage. We'll treat you and your property with the respect and care it deserves!

Ozone and Hydroxyl

12/18/2017 (Permalink)

Do you have an odor from smoke damage or something else in your home? Here at SERVPRO of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties we have some equipment to help alleviate the smell. Our ozone generator that generates ozone. Also, we have a hydroxyl generator which is an alternative method for the deodorization process.

The ozone generator is a machine that creates ozone by adding and extra oxygen molecule to the stable breathable oxygen. This creates a less stable compound know as ozone. This gas isn’t something that you should be breathing. If we must use this solution for your odor the home must be unoccupied. This process usually takes 24 hours to do its job. After the ozone has had its time to work its magic we completely air out the structure before it can be occupied again.

The hydroxyl generator is a safe alternative method we use when the structure can’t be emptied of all residents. This method uses UV light to create a hydroxyl radical that reacts with the pollutants and destroys them. This method isn’t as fast as the ozone generator and usually take 4 to 5 days to get the job done.

After SERVPRO of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties has removed the source of the odor we utilize both extremely powerful methods to aid in the deodorization process to get your home back to a pleasant smell.

Winter Fire Prevention Tips

12/4/2017 (Permalink)

It’s That time of year again, the temperature is dropping, and the air is dry. These weather conditions make for a winter wonderland, but can also make for a winter nightmare. Winter months are the highest months for fires. While some of us tend to enjoy the cold we still depend of heating our homes to survive these harsh months. Unfortunately, the high cost of heating our homes we tend to turn to alternative methods to heat our homes. While these methods may be more cost effective for us they also increase the risk of starting a fire. Here SERVPRO of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties we have 7 tips to help prevent fire damage.

  • Have your furnace inspected annually to ensure its in good working condition.
  • Make sure all heaters and ducting is clear and unobstructed.
  • Don’t leave any space heater running while unattended.
  • Ensure you have proper working smoke detectors.
  • Inspect all extension cords for defects before each use and replace any that are damaged.
  • Don’t use a stove or a range to aid in heating your home.
  • Plan and practice an escape plan in case of an emergency.

The professionals at SERVPRO of Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties are always here to help in the event of a fire.

Keep Your Dryer Free of Lint Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties

5/11/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know dryer lint is one of the leading causes of dryer failure and house fires? "How is this possible if you are clearing the lint from the filter between uses," might be a question you're asking. That is a great practice to follow, but by no means the only maintenance you can perform to keep your drying running smoothly. Here are a few tips and reasons to go the extra mile when cleaning your dryer.

Yes, removing the lint from your dryer between uses is a great place to start. But did you know fabric softener can affect the usefulness of your lint filter? The next time you finish a load of laundry, remove the lint filter and clean it as you normally would. Next, run water over the filter and see if the water pools. If it does, your filter runs the risk of still clogging despite your efforts. It is an easy enough fix though so don't fret. Use a brush and warm soapy water and gently clean the filter. Try the water technique again until the water runs unimpeded. 

Next, unplug your dryer and disconnect the vent hose / line from the dryer. This is where the majority of fires begin - in the exhaust duct. The buildup is usually higher in flexible hoses because of the potential for excess lint to get caught in the ridges.  Depending on how often you run the dryer, we recommend cleaning at least once a year, but have clients who clean it every season. Take an extendable brush and gently extend it into the vent and brush the lint back towards you - pushing it further just makes it harder to reach!

Ensuring the ducts are clean and clear of obstruction is an important step and checking the dryer drum is as well. This one requires a bit more DIY so if you are not comfortable, please call a licensed handyman. 

These few steps can help make your dryer last longer and help reduce the risk of having a house fire Aitkin, Carlton & West St. Louis Counties!

Holiday Fire Facts

11/29/2016 (Permalink)

Facts about home holiday fires

  • One of every three home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.
  • Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious. On average, one of every 31 reported home structure Christmas tree fires results in a death compared to an average of one death per 144 total reported home structure fires.
  • A heat source too close to the tree causes roughly one in every four of Christmas tree fires.
  • More than half (56 percent) of home candle fires occur when something that can catch on fire is too close to the candle.
  • December is the peak time of year for home candle fires.
  • The decoration was too close to a heat source such as a candle or equipment in nearly half (45%) of the fires.
  • One-fifth (20%) of the decoration fires started in the kitchen. One out of six (17%) started in the living room, family room or den.
  • One-fifth (20%) of the home decoration fires occurred in December. 

Please watch this video provided by NFPA:

https://youtu.be/xr6b9b8FYKk

Protecting Your Commercial Property From A Fire

6/1/2016 (Permalink)

As many authorities know, having an automatic fire sprinkler on your property can reduce the risk of fire by up to 71%.

Commercial firesare often the most devastating reality that a property owner will have to oversee. In addition to wreaking havoc on your property, fires can force you to relocate temporarily so you can maintain running your business while the restoration process is completed. However, property owners who access and implement high-quality safety practices can often avoid the devastation and destruction that results from commercial fires. Read the brief outline provided below to learn how you can protect your property: 

1. Install Automatic Fire Sprinklers.

As many authorities know, having an automatic fire sprinkler on your property can reduce the risk of fire by up to 71%. Additionally, sprinklers can decrease your insurance premium. To keep your sprinkler in excellent condition, be sure that it is not blocked by dirt or paint. Also, be sure to inspect regularly your main control valve so that it is not left off. Finally, be sure that you take the precautions necessary to prevent the pipe from freezing. 

2. Conduct Fire Emergency Training.

Each of your employees should undergo fire safety training. The training can help prevent your staff members from being victimized. Here are a few subjects that should be covered in the emergency training: 

Hazard Recognition

Keep all combustible chemicals and materials away from heat-generating and electrical equipment. 

Prevention

Inspect your power sources regularly and don't overload your extension cords and outlets. 

Response

Teach your employees how to respond when a fire breaks out. Some subjects that should be covered include how to perform an organized evacuation, operate the fire extinguisher, and set the fire alarm. 

Other issues that should be involved in the training include:

• Breathing Apparatus Training

• Fire Extinguisher Training

• Confined Space Entry Training

• First Aid Training

• Evacuation Exercise 

Also, be sure that your employee team officials undergo the following fire emergency response training:

• Fire Safety Officer Training

• Chief and Deputy Chief Warden Training

• Emergency Control Organization Warden Training

• Spill Response Training

Call SERVPRO Immediately

Although accessing and utilizing fire prevention measures is crucial and advantageous, there is still a chance that a fire could break out on your commercial property. If this happens, you need to know who to call for fast, efficient restoration services. The company to trust is SERVPRO of Aitkin, Carlton & West St.Louis Counties. We have extensive industry experience and a passion for restoring offices to their original condition. We're ready to assist you immediately, so contact us now at (218)-879-6141.