Keep it Cool Greenville When Things Start to Heat Up

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

Fires can get out of control easily so be prepared!

Fire Safety for Warm Weather

With the weather warming up, it's good to know some tips regarding how fires can start. Below is a list of ideas to prevent outside fires.

Grilling & Campfires

• Only grill outside; at least 10 feet from siding/railing and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Clean your grill after every use. Grease buildup can cause spontaneous fire growth.
• Keep matches, lighters, and starter fluid out of the reach of children in a locked drawer or cabinet.
• Establish a 3-foot caution radius around grills and campfires. (a “kid-free” zone around grills)
• Try to use long-handled grilling tools in order to prevent overexposure to heat.
• When grilling, wear short sleeves or roll them up.
• When using a gas grill, always open the lid and allow excess propane to dissipate before lighting burners.
• For campfires and charcoal grills, keep a water bucket or hose and a shovel within reach (a fire extinguisher is preferable for gas grills due to possible grease buildup on grill surfaces)
• Tents should be set up up-wind of any fire source and at least 15 feet away.
• Never leave a grill, fire-pit, or patio torch unattended. Make sure it is fully extinguished!
• Place coals in a metal can with a lid once they have cooled.
• Stay informed on local laws and fire regulations.
• Read any warning labels and instructions when using charcoal, lighter fluid, or any equipment involving the use of fire.

Wildfires & House-fire Preparedness

• Know to STOP, DROP, and ROLL if an article of clothing catches on fire.
• Check fire alarms, extinguishers, and sprinklers at the beginning of every month to make sure they are up to code.
• Know how to use a fire extinguisher! Pull the pin, direct nozzle toward the base of flames, and spray in a sweeping motion.
• Assemble an Emergency Kit with three days' worth of food, water, and medical supplies in case of wildfire.
• Sit down with your family to decide an escape-route plan and meeting location in the event of a house fire. Write down the plan and keep it in the emergency kit.
• Create a Safety Zone of 30 to 100 feet around your home. Clear away dry vegetation and brush to prevent fire from spreading.
• Make sure your home and address are clearly visible to help firefighters locate you in the event of an emergency.

Practice these precautions instead of just talking about them! It’s the best way to make sure everyone remembers what to do in an emergency. If you would like to know more, call us today at (252) 329-7205.

Why you should Clean Your Gutters!

10/24/2017 (Permalink)

Fall is here and leaves are beginning to fill your gutters. The main purpose of gutters is to collect rainwater and direct it away from the house. So, when your gutter is clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris they are no longer functional. If your gutter becomes clogged it can lead to the water finding a different way to drain from your roof. Water taking a different course can cause:

Leaking Basements. If gutters are clogged the extra water will collect around the basement and eventually leak in. A leaking basement can be extremely dangerous because it can cause gas leaks and other pollutants inside of your home.

Cracked Foundation. Foundation cracks occurs when water is absorbed into the home. A cracked foundation isn’t easy to spot and can lead to damage in between walls and eventually cause mold.

Wood rot. Sometimes the foundation of home can be made out of wood. A clogged gutter can cause water to accumulate and overtime the wood will rot.

Staining. Water can overflow from a clogged gutter and cause exterior damage to the home.

It is recommended that you clean your gutters twice a year, once in the spring and a second time in the fall. Taking time to focus on cleaning out your gutters may help keep water out and prevent damage to your home. If your Greenville property has been damaged by water caused by flooding or water leaks, we have the experience, expertise, and equipment to restore your property properly. Our water removal and cleanup process also provides validation and documentation that your property is dry. Call Us Today – (252) 329-7205