Top 5 Winter Fire Hazards and How SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County Can Help

11/26/2024 (Permalink)

Prevent the risk of fires in winter by keeping flammable items away from your Christmas tree.

As winter settles in and temperatures drop throughout Onondaga County, the risk of fire hazards increases significantly. Understanding these risks and taking preventive measures can help keep your home safe during the colder months. At SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County, we want to make sure that you stay safe over the holidays and help you prevent and restore any fire damage that may occur. If you experience fire damage, quickly restore your home to its pre-damage condition. Contact SERVPRO® for immediate assistance and peace of mind.

Space Heaters

Space heaters are a popular way to keep warm during winter, but they can also be a significant fire hazard. Half of home heating fires occur in December, January, and February. While space heaters are a convenient way to heat your home, they can also lead to destructive house fires. Reduce the risk of space heater fires by placing them on a flat surface, keeping them at least 3 feet away from flammable objects like curtains, bedding, and furniture, and always turning them off when you leave the room or house.

Holiday Decorations

We often use flammable materials such as holiday decorations and cleaning supplies to get our home guest-ready in the winter. Holiday decorations bring festive cheer to homes but can also increase fire risk. Potentially, the most notable holiday decorations are Christmas trees, especially real ones, which are equally beautiful and dangerous. It is crucial to keep your tree watered and away from heat sources to prevent it from becoming dry and flammable. Lastly, reduce your fire risk from holiday decorations by purchasing flame-resistant decorations whenever possible.

Electrical Overloads

You may not realize it, but throughout the winter, we typically use more appliances due to staying indoors to escape the cold weather, using cooking appliances for holiday baking, and having holiday lights plugged in 24/7 increase your fire risk. Electrical overloads are exceptionally common in older homes as they are not wired to today's electrical load limit. Ensure you purchase power strips equipped with surge protectors and regularly monitor your outlets to prevent too many items from being plugged into an electrical socket. Additionally, always remember to turn off and unplug electrical devices when they are not in use to ensure safety.

Cooking Accidents

During the winter months, the increased cooking and baking activities can lead to a higher risk of kitchen fires. It is essential to never leave the oven or stove unattended while in use and to ensure that flammable items, such as towels and wooden utensils, are kept away from the cooking area. Utilizing a timer can help keep track of cooking times, and it's advisable to have a fire extinguisher readily available in the kitchen for emergencies. If you experience a kitchen fire, contact SERVPRO for professional fire restoration services.

Allow SERVPRO to Restore Your Onondaga Property After a Fire

This winter, prioritize reducing your risk of fire damage by taking SERVPRO's preventive measures. In the event that you have experienced a fire at your property in Onondaga County, you can count on SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County's emergency response team to begin restoring your home immediately. Our highly trained fire restoration technicians are available 24/7 to help you restore your property to its pre-damaged condition. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in restoring your property in Onondaga County after a fire.

Your Partner in Crime After the Smoke Clears | SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County

6/16/2023 (Permalink)

Experienced a fire recently? Call SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County to help get your home back in order!

Fires can start in the most unexpected moments and leave you to face the consequences. Things like maintaining your smoke alarm and removing hazards can help you get ready before flames erupt, but what about the aftermath?

Teaming up with SERVPRO will ensure a compassionate and reliable response after flames emerge. When a fire breaks out in your home, our team has the resources and experience to help you come back stronger.

Don’t let flames take over your home! Have our SERVPRO squad on speed dial so you can recover as fast as possible. Learn how we can help after a fire breaks out in your home or business:

Fire Damage Repair Team & Commercial Property Restoration

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of SW Onondaga is available when fire damages your commercial or residential property, call us! Available 24/7!

When fire damage in a commercial property is beyond the scope of your normal janitorial crew it is time to call SERVPRO. We will provide you immediate restoration and clean up services so that your commercial property can continue to run and get back to 100% operations as quickly as possible. We understand that a fire in a commercial property can cause damage and clean up that is not easy to manage with out the right equipment and experience in fire damage clean up.

Our team is the areas most experienced fire damage clean up and restoration company and we have a large network of sister franchises that allow us to quickly scale up production for extensive commercial projects. This makes us the best option when commercial properties such as sports and art venues, shopping centers, retail stores, restaurants, hotels, multi-family buildings, government buildings, manufacturing facilities and others of the like experience a fire loss. We respond quickly and provide outstanding service the minute we arrive on your property. Our project managers are trained to throughly review your property and quickly provide you with an estimate to restore the property from damage. If approved we will work directly with property owners, managers and insurance providers, offering daily communications and updates as your restoration progresses.

When fire damages a property there are many things to consider. First the source of the damage must be inspected and the structure must be deemed safe to enter before restoration can begin. When reviewing the source of the fire the damage, this area of the property will most likely be the most significant. But surprisingly it might not be the most difficult area in the property to clean. This is because cleaning of the property will require our team to cover more area and provide more manual labor as damage like soot clean-up is a labor intensive task. Fortunately we are prepared for this senario and can scale up labor and production to include more technicians and equipment as needed.

If your commercial property has been damaged by fire call us immediately. Our project managers are available 24/7 when called upon.

Fire Damage Restoration For Commercial Properties in Syracuse

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of SW Onondaga is available 24/7/365 when fire damages your property. Call us when you need help!

Commercial fire damage restoration requires an experienced disaster restoration team that has the ability to scale up operations quickly and without quality loss. Team Luzzi is one of the countries most experienced and expansive SERVPRO Franchise ownership groups. Our franchise locations span over 80,000 square miles and include some of the countries most densely populated cities like New York City and the Boston area. We have provided restoration to commercial properties that have experienced fire damage in Rhode Island, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York and New Jersey.

When a fire damages a commercial property we will arrive quickly to asses the damage and provide immediate board-up or tarp covering services if required. This will protect your building from further damage and allow us to recover and move property inside the building to a safe location. Your assigned commercial project manager will then coordinate a workforce appropriately sized for your property. If needed we will work in multiple shifts to clean and remove all soot and smoke damage from the property and to begin the deodorization process. We move quickly because the sooner we are able to remove and clean items within the building the more likely we are able to completely recover those items. We will also come prepared to clean up water damage that generally occurs when the fire is extinguished. We are prepared and ready to perform several services simultaneously.

Once restoration is complete your project manager will provide a no obligation estimate to perform reconstruction services. Our team includes experienced contractors that can provide full scale construction services for commercial applications.

If you experience fire damage in your commercial property, call us immediately. Team Luzzi will provide complete and transparent oversight of your project to ensure you can be back up and running as soon as possible!

Fire Damage Restoration Syracuse NY

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of SW Onondaga is on call and available 24/7 when your property requires immediate attention.

SERVPRO of SW Onondaga has been one of the leading fire damage restoration companies in the Syracuse area for many, many years. Our team mentality is centered around the idea of making a difference and helping others in our community in their time of need. This is especially true after a residential fire damage.

When a home is damaged by fire in the Syracuse area we arrive quickly and prepared to begin restoration services. This is because every minute that passes after it is safe it enter a fire damage property puts the property at risk of further damage.

We will quickly evaluate the damage to your property and will provide tarping services if needed to protect the interior of the property from the outside elements. Then we will provide an accurate estimate to restore and repair your home. Our team is equipment with the proper skill and equipment to complete restore your home to it's preloss condition.

If you experience a fire in your home call us 24/7, we can help!

Storm Damage Repair - How to Get Your Fire-Damaged Building Back to Normal

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lower East Side Manhattan is available to begin fire damage restoration services 24/7.

A small fire broke out in the Manhattan garage after a home improvement project went wrong. It was quickly extinguished. To ensure safety and health for your family, a professional fire damage restoration company must be consulted about the cleanup. The garage fire's debris can be hidden under your living areas, causing unwanted odors and gasses to spread into other parts of your home.
What about my deep freezer? What Could the Fire Do to It?
Our crews use mitigation, remediation, and restoration strategies to eliminate toxic residues following your Manhattan garage fire damage. We also pay attention to the impact on appliances. Do not assume that your garage is sealed off from harmful vapors or soot if you store food and beverages in fridges and freezers. The appliance's cord, pug or circuits could be damaged by the chemicals or water used to extinguish the flames.

Are there guidelines for frozen food safety after a fire?
SERVPRO crews will follow the advice of government agencies when assessing whether food in a chest freezer or upright freezer was adequately protected during and after a fire. Understanding that freezer seals can be finicky, each case must be examined. These are some of the recommendations:

* Keep the freezer door closed during power outages caused by a fire.
* Check the freezer for any soot lines or a strong odor when opening it. If they are present, throw out the food.
* Make sure the appliance keeps food at a temperature below 40 degrees F. As the food temperature rises so does the risk
* You can either cook and eat items that have thawed or refreeze them.
* Freeze juices, baked goods, dairy products, and other cold items that have been thawed.
* Thaw thawed veggies only if there are ice crystals
* Get professional advice to determine if the electronics, cord, and plug are still operational.

SERVPRO of Lower East Side Manhattan will provide you with top-notch fire damage cleanup and helpful advice. Contact (917) 423-6364 immediately after you have suffered a loss.

Fire Damage Clean-up: The Basics of Fire Damage Repair & Construction

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of SW Onondaga is available to help restore and rebuild after a fire. Call us 24/7.

When a fire destroys your home or office, it can leave everything in ashes. The ashes can include burned furniture, ruined staircases, holes burned through the roof, and damaged electrical wiring. The process of fire damage restoration begins with cleaning and sanitization. The charred carpeting and waterlogged flooring will be removed, and the charred walls and ceilings will be replaced. Once the charred items are cleaned and removed, the fire damage restoration crew can begin work on restoring the property.

When evaluating the damage caused by a fire, professionals must determine whether certain materials are salvageable. Some materials will need to be replaced, while others may be restored to their original condition. Once a fire has been cleaned, mitigation experts can begin the restoration process. Your local SERVPRO can remove the smoke and soot and clean up the entire area. Then, the fire mitigation team can start restoring the building's contents.

The fire mitigation team will remove charred materials and structural components to make the house safe for cleaning. Then, the cleaning crew can begin restoring the home's interior. When the fire is extinguished, full restoration can begin. It is important to note that time is of the essence with smoke damage restoration, as the longer the restoration process goes, the more permanent the damage can become. There are also special precautions that should be taken to remove any charred items.

Afterwards, smoke & soot will need to be removed. Depending on the type of fire, different types of smoke damage will occur. In some cases, the smoke is wet, and will have a pungent odor. Other types of smoke will need to be cleaned according to the specific type of smoke. This should be done immediately, as improper cleaning can exacerbate the damage. In some cases, the smoke from a fire can also cause mold.

Fire Damage Repair - How to Properly Clean Up Soot and Smoke Damage

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of SW Onondaga is available to help with Fire Damage Restoration & Repair

The fire damage repair process involves cleaning up the damaged area and restoring it to its original condition. When it comes to rebuilding a home, the process requires specialized equipment and knowledge. If you are unsure of what to do, contact a disaster restoration company. Professionals can help you in this process. Listed below are the steps to take if your property is damaged by fire. Once you have assessed the extent of damage, call a company specializing in fire damage restoration.

First, assess the extent of the fire damage. If it has damaged the roof or a structure, you must tarp or seal it off. You must also board up the windows and any other openings in the structure. The next step is obtaining a fire department inspection. This process may take a few days or weeks, depending on the jurisdiction. You must make sure that you can safely access the property before the repair process begins.

After the inspection, the home will need to be cleaned. Soot and smoke may have gotten into the home, so it is important to clean them up. In addition, if you leave the area for more than a few days, you may want to consider moving into a temporary dwelling until the entire fire damage cleanup process has been completed. If you have water damage, it is crucial to clean up any affected materials. A hose can spill a ton of water, which will ruin the contents of the home.

Experienced Technicians for Camillus Fire Damage Recovery

6/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO recommends to all our Camillus neighbors--No Smoking--good for you and your property

Trained Technicians for Your Fire Damage Restoration Needs in Camillus

Anyone can put out an advertisement claiming to be the best or the fastest to fire damages and other emergencies Camillus residents face. It is in the times when disasters strike that these teams get to prove their mettle, and our SERVPRO professionals have continued to show that We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Just having someone there quickly is not enough to overcome fire damage in Camillus residences. You need assurance that the team dispatched to your address has the training and skills to make a difference quickly for your home. Our professionals undergo extensive training and coursework through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in both Fire & Smoke Restoration (FSRT) and Odor Control (OCT), amongst other related niches.

Continued Training for Fire Damage Restoration

We do not stop with the bare minimum required to obtain our industry certifications, however. Each of our team continues to grow and gain experience through the hands-on recovery of area properties and coursework and online educational opportunities provided for our fire restorers in our SERVPRO facility. This includes combining the information from the NFPA regarding fire safety. We aim to send out the most experienced and most educated professionals, which is what added education could help us achieve.

Fire damages can be devastating. Our SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County team has extensive training to make damages “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today at (315) 488-3900.

The Risks of DIY Fire Damage Recovery for Camillus Homes

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

Fire is no DIY project. Call the trained professionals of SERVPRO. They are IICRC certified technicians with the latest equipment available.

How DIY Fire Damage Recovery Can Affect You

Fire damages can have a dangerous effect on Camillus homes, and the less that homeowners understand these risks and present hazards, the more they can put themselves in harm's way. While we can help our customers, however they might need, we encourage residents to lean on our experience and skills with fire damage recovery. 

Fire damage in Camillus homes can be a challenge to overcome, even with many of the right tools and products needed to restore it. Our SERVPRO team undergoes extensive training and coursework to obtain their certifications in the fire recovery niche. We also have a team of licensed contractors that can understand the structural concerns present in widespread fire damages.  

There are many hazards and risks to attempting to clean and recover these disasters without the involvement of our SERVPRO professionals, including:

• Exposure to airborne contaminants, including soot, debris, and other carcinogens.
• Susceptible to structural collapses or weakening.
• Inadequate cleaning of residues can result in staining and smearing.
• Odors can stick around long after a fire without focused deodorization.

Fire damages may not be cheap to restore, but our SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County team can do whatever it takes to limit these expenses and get you back in your home quickly. Give us a call at (315) 488-3900.

Onondaga Hill Locals Know Who to Call for Fire Damage Assistance

4/18/2021 (Permalink)

You need a team you can trust after a fire strikes in your home. Call SERVPRO right away.

Fire damage restoration with SERVPRO saves Onondaga Hill residents both time and money!

Located within the town of Onondaga, the hamlet of Onondaga Hill can be found in the southwestern region of Syracuse. Here, you will find the first county courthouse that originally got built back in 1805. The hamlet was also the location for the town hall of Onondaga until 2005. 

Due to the location in regards to Syracuse, New York, there is never a shortage of things to do in Onondaga Hill that are just a short drive away. Whether you are hoping to get out to try some local cuisine or take part in a little bit of shopping, you will find plenty to explore. There are even local food tours available from time-to-time so that you can get the whole experience and never miss out. Top restaurants within the region include:

• Archey’s Bar & Grill – Known for incredible hamburgers and a diverse beer selection, this restaurant is a local favorite.
• The Leslie Depot Diner – Whether you are looking for breakfast or brunch, this dining spot is well-known for homestyle cooking and excellent omelets.
• The English Inn – When you want upscale dining, this beautiful restaurant features seafood dishes, beef tartar, and a wide selection of desserts.

Nature Lovers and Explorers Alike Enjoy All Onondaga Hill Has to Offer

This area of New York state is known for some beautiful hiking trails and natural areas to explore. The location and natural surroundings make for a perfect day trip, camping adventure, or vacation in the area. A few of the top options to check out when you are in Onondaga Hill include:

• Morgan Hill State Forest – This stunning natural attraction features over 5,000 acres filled with a multiple-use trail system, countless wildlife species, and a variety of family-based recreation opportunities.
• Bucktail Falls – Located just off of Moon Hill Road, Bucktail Falls features a series of beautiful waterfalls along hiking trails, just suitable for relaxing in nature or picture-taking.
• Onondaga Lake Park – Several significant events occur during the year, including athletic competitions, charity walks, and more. At the Long Branch portion of the park, you will find various reserved shelters, including Knoll, Riverview, and Glen.

Hiring Skilled Fire Damage Restoration with SERVPRO Gets the Results You Deserve in Your Onondaga Hill Home

Whether you had an electrical fire or a small blaze in your kitchen, house fire clean up and restoration must begin as quickly as possible. Once you call SERVPRO to your Onondaga Hill property, our crew chief begins the assessment after first responders give the green light. From there, we formulate a plan of action to achieve our results quickly and at as little cost as possible.

Handling fire damage in Onondaga Hill is something we do best at SERVPRO. Some of the ways that we address fire damaged homes in the area include:

• Separation of all unsalvageable items from those with restoration potential
• Total removal and careful disposal of charred items and building materials
• Water extraction and drying methods
• Smoke remediation, including odor control applications and cleaning methods
• Preparing your property for necessary repairs or rebuilding efforts

Smoke and fire damage in Onondaga Hill does not have to take a long time to complete. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster at SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County, so call us at (315) 488-3900.

Can Carpets Be Salvaged After a Fire?

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Fire causes smoke and odor damage. But when it comes to carpet fire damage restoration, SERVPRO is the team to call on for the help you need.

SERVPRO does everything possible to restore rather than replace after fire damage.

Fires can cause a lot of damage, even when it is not a raging inferno that destroys a home. One of the biggest problems is the foul odors that are prevalent everywhere. Smoke particles settle into everything and can bond with the material, causing strong smells. 

Does the Carpet Have to Be Removed?

The odors left behind after fire damage in your Onondaga Hill home can become trapped in carpets and padding. If the carpets show no sign of burn damage, they can often be saved. Our carpet cleaning services can restore your rugs through several cleaning options. We offer hot water extraction, bonnet cleaning, deluxe precondition and rinse, and showcase premier cleaning. You can trust SERVPRO to:

• Ensure smoky odors do not linger
• Remove permanently damaged portions of the carpet
• Clean your carpet to preloss condition
• Do a scope of the home to create a restoration plan
• Work quickly to get you back to normal as fast as possible
• Deep clean your carpet to remove build-up and debris

For professional fire damage service, contact SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County at (315) 488-3900. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Camillus Residents Need Prompt Action to Address Fire Damage Before Corrosive Soot and Smoke Takes Hold

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County as soon as you learn your property has a fire damage. SERVPRO can help subside more damage from smoke and water.

SERVPRO Lessens Costs by Cleaning and Restoring the Interior of Your Camillus Home After a Fire Damage Event

You will find the town of Camillus nestled within Onondaga County in the state of New York. As of the time the 2010 United States Census was taken, Camillus has a population of 24,167 people. The town got its name from a clerk interested in classics and chose to name it after Marcus Furius Camillus, a Roman military leader.

In terms of location, Camillus, New York, is just to the west of Syracuse. Within Camillus town, there is also a village of the same name. A lot of the town is essentially a western suburb of the city of Syracuse.

Details About the Geography of Camillus, New York

As detailed by the United States Census Bureau, Camillus has a total land area making up 34.5 square miles. Within the area, NY State Route 5 moves east-west across town, and NY State Route 173 has an intersection with NY State Route 5 by Fairmount. There is also an intersection of NY State Route 5 and NY State Route 174 by Camillus Village. 

Learning More Regarding Camillus History Throughout the Years

It used to be that Camillus was part of what was known as the Central New York Military Tract. In about 1795, the first pioneer by the name of Joseph Sherwood arrived where the village of Camillus is located. The town was formed here in 1799 with the land that came from the town of Marcellus. In 1825, a significant amount of industrial development got a boost from the Erie Canal. The town of Camillus was also located along the railroad line that linked both Auburn and Syracuse in 1838. Eventually. Both the Wilcox Octagon House and the Nine Mile Creek Aqueduct got listed within the National Register of Historic Places.

In 1795, the first frame house was erected by Isaac Lindsay. By the year 1808, the entire village of Camillus only included two frame houses. David Munro constructed the first substantial frame house in 1810. Around the same time, Captain Kimberly and the White family put up houses in Amboy.

In addition to constructing the first frame house in the town, Isaac Lindsay also kept the first tavern here in 1793. John Tomlinson opened the very first store in the town in 1808. James R. Lawrence opened the first law office in 1815, and the first doctor established his practice in Camillus in 1808. This physician’s name was Dr. Isaac Magoon. 

There are several popular locations and communities within the town of Camillus, New York, including:

• Belle Isle
• Bennetts Corners
• Fairmount
• Fox Chapel
• Hidden Knolls
• Orchard Village
• Pioneer Farms
• Stanley Manor
• Weatheridge
• Wincrest Park

Enjoying Local Attractions In and Around Camillus, New York

Whether you are looking for something to do with family or a day outing with friends, Camillus, New York, features a wide variety of in-town and nearby attractions. These are some of the different must-do things when you are in the area:

Camillus Erie Canal Park – This is a beautiful park that features walkways that go along an old towpath. You will also find various displays of historical relics from the old days of the canal. Many like to visit to enjoy nature on a walk or enjoying time with their pets but also to check out the aqueduct, which is there to carry the canal across Nine Mile Creek. 

Local 315 Brewing Company – If you are a beer fan or you are traveling with someone who is, then this is a stop you do not want to miss. This local brewery is set up on a knoll in the middle of an active hop farm that also features farm animals and a beautiful valley as the backdrop. Not only is there a broad selection of IPAs and stout on tap, but there are also specialty flavors like strawberry rhubarb beer. 

Camillus Forest Unique Area – Whether you want some great local hiking or a way to get away from everything to enjoy nature, this is a beautiful spot. This area includes 350 acres of planted farmland that has now grown wild. There are lots of trails for hiking and different places where you can sit to enjoy the surroundings. 

Movie Tavern – Rather than going out to dinner and then to a theater for a movie, why not get the best of both worlds at the same time? The Movie Tavern is a theater that shows the latest release films while offering a diverse menu of eats and delicious beverages. All you have to do is order what you want, and the friendly staff brings you what you need – all without having to miss a minute of the movie!

Don’t Let Fire Damage Cause Undue Stress in Your Life – Call SERVPRO to Your Camillus Home to Take Care of Your Cleanup and Restoration Needs

A fire in your Camillus home will put you through a world of emotions. Not only will you be overwhelmed with the shock of what happened, but you also have stress while determining the next best steps. SERVPRO is available to help you with all of the cleanup, including debris, soiled contents, and structural issues. All you have to do is get in touch with our team, and we will arrive within hours to begin our assessment. We are available 24/7 to make your home, “Like it never even happened.”

There is a lot of hard work that goes into restoring fire damage in Camillus, but there is no job that SERVPRO cannot handle. You never have to go through this alone. We are here for:

• Containment of fire damage
• Full cleaning and storing of your belongings
• Detailed building restoration, addressing all structural components
• Total smoke and odor elimination
• Cleaning and sanitization, making your home Certified: SERVPRO Clean
• Structural Drying, and much more!

SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County is the team to call when you have any fire damage to your home. We can be reached 24/7 for emergency service by calling (315) 488-3900. We are Faster to Any Size Disaster, and our Green Fleet comes fully equipped with the latest equipment and EPA-registered cleaning agents.

Provision of Advanced Fire Restoration Resources Helps Manage the Outcome of Fires in Camillus

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County is ready to help their community, call us today.

SERVPRO Maintains a Highly Trained and Well Equipped Team to Help Camillus Homeowners, Fix Fire Damage 

Camillus town stands in an area with a long occupation history stretching back at least four years before it became part of Onondaga County. The town was established on March 8, 1799, and named after a Roman general whose full name was Marcus Furius Camillus. It is a unique name since it is the only town in the United States to carry it. There was a significant setback to the township's development when a major fire destroyed 20 years' worth of records in 1829.   

The town underwent several changes in its formative stages, some of which came about because of the push for freedom against colonial tax policies and lack of representation. Camillus was the fifth township of the Military Tract. The Military Tract was land set aside to entice more people to participate in the revolutionary war. Initially, each soldier was guaranteed 100 acres as a bounty for the service rendered. By 1871 the acreage was increased to 500 per soldier when it was established that a better incentive was necessary to boost the numbers enlisting. The town also underwent various reorganizations over time. Initially, it was a military township. It was then included in Marcellus, a civil town before it was finally formed into a separate town and given its old name back.

A History of Community Cooperation

Many initial developments in the town are attributed to individuals. In 1792, William Lindsay discovered the first plaster bed, not only in the town but also in the entire country, albeit accidentally. He took a large block of a unique stone home, and after examination by several people, it was finally established to be plaster. Other notable firsts in the area include:

• The first frame house erected by Isaac Lindsay in 1795
• The first store in town set up by John Tomlinson in 1808
• Dr. Isaac Magoon became the first physician in the township in 1808

However, collaboration among the community members was also rife when settlers first arrived in the area. Probably because there was considerably hard work of clearing the vegetation in the area, a form of cooperation known as "bees" in which a general invitation is sent to all able-bodied men in town, was the main driving force for development. There were logging bees, chopping bees, husking bees, and many others. The hard day's work was followed by a night of dance and merrymaking as the men unwound and prepared for another fruitful day.

Interest Places to Visit in Camillus

Some remnants of the hard work done in the area in the early days have survived the years. One great example that presently attracts many visitors is the Nine Mile Creek Aqueduct built back in 1844 as part of the Erie Canal – an aqueduct is a bridge that holds water, allowing canals to cross rivers, streams, or valleys. The canal ran 386 miles from Lake Erie in Buffalo to the Hudson River in Albany. It provided a direct route from New York City to the Midwest, thus triggering large-scale agricultural and commercial development. It also led to immigration to the frontier areas of Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, and Western New York. It is also credited with transforming New York City into an economic powerhouse since people from the city could exploit the resource-rich interiors where timber, furs, minerals, and fertile land were plentiful. In Camillus, the economic boom also had a positive effect because over 19 mills sprang up along the Nine Mile Creek since it offered a perfect power source and convenient transport for inputs and final products.  

Today, the Nine Mile Creek Aqueduct is one of the historical sites tourists can enjoy when visiting Camillus. In 1976 it was listed in the National Register of Historic Places cementing its place in the town's history. Work to restore its full functionality as an aqueduct started in October 2008 and ended almost a year later in August 2009, allowing boats to transverse it again - the first time in 89 years. There are other fascinating attractions in the town, including:

• The Martisco Station Museum which was built in 1870. It was also entered in the National Register of Historic Places in 2007.
• The Sims Store Erie Canal Museum. It is a replica of the original store located 2 miles east of the current site. The original store served as a stopover point before boats entered the lock.
• Modern-day parks such as the Camillus Recreation & Parks where people enjoy grills, shelters, and a brook to cool off.
• Sycamore Hill Gardens. It is a serene garden with a variety of trees, flowers, ponds, and beautiful landscaping.

How Does SERVPRO Help Camillus Homeowners Rebuild after Fire Incidents?

Fire incidents can damage Camillus homes extensively within a short period. Such damage might continue worsening even after the firefighters quell the flames. The Fire and Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) at SERVPRO receive extensive training in managing fire loss sites, including securing the property's remnants, preventing secondary damages, and how to handle the different perspectives of the restoration process to guarantee a positive outcome.

Fires might cause all the damage at the site or create the conditions necessary for other factors to damage the property. For instance, when flames consume materials, gaping holes can develop in walls or roofs, allowing rainwater and other weather elements inside the house, leading to more damages. Aspects of the fire, such as soot and other residues, can also cause secondary damages. Our SERVPRO technicians respond in different ways to minimize further deterioration of homes, including:

• Boarding up wall openings to protect the interiors. Roof tarps also help provide a temporary cover for the damaged house
• Pre-cleaning vulnerable surfaces and applying protective products such as oil to prevent corrosion and deep staining.
• Expediting all restoration processes including cleaning, renovation, and refinishing of affected areas
• Securing items salvaged from the loss site boosting the chances of saving them

SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County helps keep the long-established history of reinvention in Camillus alive by simplifying fire damage restoration for any category of damage. Call us at (315) 488-3900.

I Need Help in Restoring My Onondaga Property after Fire Ruined It. Whom Do I Contact?

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

We can make the fire loss seem, “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO’s Team of Technicians in Onondaga Hill to Help You Handle the Fire Damage in Your Home.

A fire incident can be devastating for a property owner. Trying to figure out what to do next after the damage can be overwhelming and stressful. However, if you hire professional restorers from SERVPRO, we can help you get your Onondaga Hill property to its preloss state quickly.

Which services do professional restorers offer?

SERVPRO has the expertise to remediate the fire damage in your Onondaga Hill residence. We offer a wide range of fire damage restoration services to property owners, using cutting-edge techniques and advanced equipment as well as products. We work fast and efficiently to prevent further destruction. Since fire and smoke damage restoration requires special skills and knowledge, we have a highly trained team of technicians who can do an excellent job. With our advanced equipment, experienced team of restorers, and approved techniques, we offer services such as:

    •    Pack-outs and content cleaning: Our technicians can inventory, pack-out, clean, and store your valuable contents until we restore your home to its pre-damaged state.  
    •    Carpet and pad removal: The water that firefighters use can destroy your flooring, drywall, and other materials. Your carpet and pad can hold lots of water, and if not removed for drying, mold can begin to grow, and odors may linger in your property. Our technicians can use latex adhesive, carpet shears, and a seaming tape to remove your carpet and pad safely.   
    •    Temporary protection/board-up: During the restoration process, we board-up openings using plywood to protect the property from harsh weather. We reinforce the plywood using two by fours.
    •    Thorough cleaning: We use our advanced products to clean the soot and smoke residues that have settled on various surfaces. We can use natural fabric brightener, a reducing bleach solution to clean soot and smoke residues on wool carpeting and cotton.   
    •    Smoke odor removal: The smoke odor may persist even after a thorough cleaning. We use an effective deodorization process to eliminate it.

How do you clean valuable items?

Our technicians can clean salvageable items in various ways depending on the intensity of the damage. We can use the immersion technique that allows the most significant application of cleaning solutions since we immerse the items in the cleaning agent. This technique enables our technicians to control the quantity and temperature of the cleaning product. However, this technique is only suitable for small items that we can place in the immersion tank.

When you have fire damage of any magnitude in your home, you can count on SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County to restore it. Talk to us at (315) 488-3900. We can make the fire loss seem, “Like it never even happened.”

Did You Know About These Hidden Fire Damage Hazards In Your Home?

7/17/2020 (Permalink)

No matter when you make the call, we have highly trained technicians who can assist you.

SERVPRO warns Onondaga Hill homeowners about unexpected fire damage risks.

Onondaga Hill homeowners know the importance of preventing home fires if possible. Although there is always a risk of a home fire, no matter how careful you are, it’s a good idea to eliminate hazards. 

There is a lot of information on the internet and from local fire departments warning Onondaga Hill residents about the risk of fire damage. However, most fire prevention campaigns cover obvious fire risks. There are also many lesser-known risks, and knowing about them can help you keep your home safe from a blaze.

What are some of the better-known fire risks?

You are probably already aware of some of the more common issues that can cause your home to catch fire. These include:

Leaving hot stove pans unattended or cooking with the heat turned up too high.

Leaving a burning candle of any other open flame unattended.

Failure to properly maintain electrical equipment, especially sockets and cords.

Forgetting to clean the lint catcher out in your dryer regularly.

SERVPRO recommends staying aware of all these potential problems and fixing them before a blaze can start. However, it’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with some of the lesser-known fire risks around your home.

What are some of the lesser-known fire risks?

SERVPRO wants to make local homeowners aware of some less common fire hazards so they can take action today and hopefully prevent a disaster. Here are some things you probably have not thought of, along with tips on making your home safer:

Laptops – laptops can overheat and start a fire. To use your computer responsibly, SERVPRO suggests keeping it away from bed clothes or blankets and only using it on a hard surface such as a table. You can also purchase inexpensive laptop cooling trays that sit beneath the machine and ensure a flow of air.

Piles of paper – it only takes an open flame or heat from an appliance to set a stack of documents ablaze. Make sure to keep your records in a cool and well-ventilated area, and if the pile is unusually large, you should split it up into smaller piles.

Dust – dust can accumulate around electrical outlets, sockets, and heaters and cause a spark that starts a fire. When cleaning your home, be sure to vacuum or dust around all such areas to prevent problems.

Crumbs in the toaster – crumbs might be small, but if enough of them accumulate in the bottom of your toaster, they can start a kitchen fire. Clean your toaster after every use so the crumbs cannot build up.

Clutter – a cluttered home means more fuel for a fire, plus if the clutter is in the way of a door, you could find yourself trapped inside a room. Set aside time one weekend to declutter your home and make a plan to keep it that way.

Are there any lesser-known fire risks in my garden?

People don’t think of their garden as a fire hazard, but there are some risks:

Leaves in the gutter – if the weather gets dry enough to start a fire, leaves in the gutter provide quick kindling and can spread the flames to your home. Clean out your gutters regularly whatever the weather to prevent a fire risk (and keep your gutters from overflowing with water, too.)

Dry vegetation – just like leaves, dry vegetation provides fuel for a fire. If your garden has piles of dry leaves or sticks, dispose of them sooner rather than later.

Charcoal – grilling in the garden is fun, but charcoal can re-ignite itself and cause a blaze. Take care when disposing of the charcoal after a grill-out. You should place leftover charcoal in a metal bucket with a tightly fitting lid and do not dispose of it until you are sure it has cooled completely.

Storage of oil or chemicals – if you have oil or chemicals for use in the garden or home, be mindful of how you store them. Store flammable materials carefully away from any elements that might catch fire.

How can I reduce the chance of fire damage to my house?

SERVPRO recommends making routine fire safety part of your home routine. Set aside time in your schedule to regularly clean your gutters, tidy your garden, hoover, and dust the corners of your home, and take care of clutter. Always be vigilant for any fire hazards and take steps to reduce the risk as soon as you spot a potential problem.

It’s far better to take some time to mitigate the risks than deal with the aftermath of a home fire.

Sometimes accidents happen, and even if you are careful, there might be a home fire. We all hope a blaze in the home won’t happen to us, but if you are unfortunate enough to face a home fire, SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County is here to help. Call us on (315) 488-3900 for assistance.

How Do You Clean Soot and Oily Residues from Wall and Ceiling Surfaces in Onondaga Hill?

6/14/2020 (Permalink)

With efficient products and equipment, our SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County team can clean up your home to make fire losses “Like it never even happened.

Fire Damage In Your Onondaga Hill Home

Soot and residues are ordinary after structure fires in Onondaga Hill homes, but our SERVPRO team can help with effective removal and cleaning strategies.

When fires rage in an Onondaga Hill home, the combustion of specific materials can leave deposits of soot, ash, and other substances on the surface of exposed areas. As is the case with many of the hazardous conditions that exist after a fire gets extinguished, our experienced SERVPRO professionals must work to remove these threats before you can safely return to your property.

Removing soot and smoke residue is only part of the process of recovering fire damage in Onondaga Hill properties. From deodorization to debris removal, we have to meet the restoration needs in your house with the most efficient and productive practices. In many ways, this means investigating the details about the conditions after the fire and scoping the work to get done.

How Do Soot and Oily Residues Happen?

There are many different residues that can exist on surfaces after a fire. Soot is one of the most challenging, as this is not only a dangerous situation, but also a burden to clean without the proper training, equipment, and products. Additionally, the type of fire can have varying effects on residue left behind on exposed surfaces. High-heat fires produce a powdery residue that is less challenging to clean than lower-heat smoldering fires. Wet smoke in cooler fires produces a thick residue that can smear and stain surfaces. The most commonly exposed materials include:

    •    Personal Belongings
    •    Ceilings
    •    Upper Portions of Wall Surfaces
    •    Ceiling Fixtures

Is Soot Dangerous?

Soot is one of the residues or microscopic particles that can float through the environment that gets produced by incomplete combustion. Fuels like wood can be the base of these carcinogenic particles, and between their damaging presence on surfaces and contents to their challenge for air quality, can be among the most significant challenges professional restorers face. Among the many possible hazards that exist with a post-fire recovery in a home, our technicians must be mindful of soot particle threats because they are:

Microscopic – The size of soot particulates is a considerable concern for technicians and others around because, when inhaled, soot can embed deep into the lungs of the person exposed.

Acidic – Because soot is acidic, its presence on wood and finished surfaces can be destructive. Prolonged exposure can cause irreparable damage. Our team must work to remove residues as soon as possible to protect exposed finished materials.

Carcinogenic – Perhaps one of the most considerable hazards of the presence of soot circulating in the house or stick to surfaces is its carcinogenic nature. These particles have gotten linked to substantial health effects, so cleaning and removal should occur by trained professionals donning the appropriate personal protective equipment.

What Strategies Are Used to Remove Residues?

There is no singular way to address soot or other harmful residues from the house. The best approaches vary depending on the exposed materials, the location of the damage, and how thick or severe the residue has become. Clearing surfaces as soon as possible is a focal point of effective mitigation for our SERVPRO team as we can reduce the need for excessive controlled demolition and build back with the appropriate response to address the currently exposed materials. Some of the effective strategies that we can use for residues include:

    •    Water-Based Chemical Solvents
    •    Abrasive Cleaning
    •    Soda/Media Blasting
    •    Controlled Demolition

Does SERVPRO Do Build Back?

Full scale build back, and reconstruction is often a necessity after fire loss incidents, so many homeowners are already considering the securing of this contractor before they even communicate with restoration companies. One of the distinct advantages of choosing SERVPRO for fire restoration and recovery is our division of licensed residential contractors that we have in-house. These talented professionals have years of hands-on experience in the building trades. They can help with efforts ranging from controlled demolition in the mitigation stages through the full-scale build back of compromised areas of your structure. We can also offer new construction and remodeling when fire losses become a devastating disaster.

Fire losses can be destructive and widespread, leaving residues and soot on many surfaces and contents. With efficient products and equipment, our SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County team can clean up your home to make fire losses “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call anytime that you need us at (315) 488-3900.

Why is Fire Debris Removal Important for My Camillus Home?

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Do you need help with your fire damaged home? Call SERVPRO for their professional help.

Debris removal is a service our SERVPRO team can offer to reduce the severity of lingering fire loss effects before restoration begins. 

Fires can be an overwhelming experience for Camillus homeowners when they get their first look at how destructive these loss incidents can be. In many situations, it can be beneficial to begin debris removal right away to protect the property.

Much of the fire damage in Camillus homes cannot be fully identified until steps like fire debris removal have completed. This service is also often covered by your homeowners' insurance, so it is something that you can begin right away even while you are working with your provider for your coverage options for restoration.

How Does My Home Benefit from Debris Removal? 

There are several reasons why you should begin debris removal as soon as possible when the property gets turned back over to you after extinguishment. Some of these include:

• Lower soot concentrations
• Clearer inspections of damage
• Reduced severity of odors
• Identification of health/safety hazards

We strive to provide fast and efficient service that can reduce the severity of other effects after a fire. Give our SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County team a call today at (315) 488-3900.

What Should I Do to Restore My Camillus Home After an Electrical Fire?

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Together, we work with you to leave your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Victims of Fire in Camillus Should Call a Professional Service to Restore Their Homes

Electrical fires can be devastating to homeowners. Occasionally they smoke for a while before they are even detected, which makes them even more dangerous. The ensuing damage following the fire itself and the extinguishing efforts can wreak havoc in your home, and the cleanup process may seem overwhelming.

Residents in Camillus experiencing fire damage can call our SERVPRO technicians to assess the situation and develop a restoration plan. Our team is available around the clock to respond to your emergency and kick off the cleanup process. Once the source of the electrical problem is under control and the area is safe, we arrive to return your home to mint condition.

How do I remove the smell of fire?
Even the smallest fires can leave behind a pungent smell that seeps into your personal belongings, including furniture, curtains and other textiles. You may launder and spray your items, but the foul scent still lingers in the air, reminding you of the incident. To clear the air in your home, our SERVPRO team can use one of several techniques focusing on odor eliminations including:

    •    Odor pellets to counteract the smell
    •    Ozone generators to purify the air by eliminating the molecules
    •    Thermal fogging sprays a mist to neutralize the smell

In the odor elimination process, we pay close attention to the path of the smoke and ensure that it did not invade the HVAC system. Additionally, we wipe down surfaces with deodorant solutions to remove any visible residue from furniture, cabinets, and fixtures. Our team also focuses on identifying odor pockets within wall cavities and crawl spaces and getting rid of them using industry best-practices.

SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County is your resource when fire damage invades your home. Call us at (315) 488-3900 as soon as the emergency happens and let us arrive at your home. Together, we work with you to leave your home, “Like it never even happened.”

For more about Camillus click here.

How SERVPRO Removes Soot and Smoke Damage in Camillus

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot leave lingering damage. SERVPRO has the knowledge and equipment to completely restore your home.

Solutions When Fire Damage and Odor Linger in Camillus 

The residues and smells from household fires are challenging to remove from your Camillus home. Conventional cleaning techniques are not always the best fit for a successful outcome and can make the situation worse in some instances. We invest in the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training for our employees to ensure that the efforts we make to clear out soot and fire stench are appropriate and effective. 

Evaluation of Residue Characteristics 

Our project managers are experts in determining what types of fire residues and odors your Camillus home suffers. This step is crucial when developing a fire damage mitigation and remediation plan. Depending on the temperature and oxygen availability during the blaze, plus the composition of the materials burned, the residues generally can be characterized as dry, wet, or protein-based. The intensity and tenacity of odors also relate to these factors.  

Selection of Effective Removal Products  

The first steps SERVPRO takes to remove both fire residues and odors are the same. Our crews gather debris and rubble, containing it for disposal. Then we match soot types with the products we know clean best to clear them away. Dry soot vacuums and dry sponges away, while the sticky coating of wet soot often requires the addition of cleaning solutions with wetting agents and surfactants, loosening the soot and allowing it to suspend in the cleaning product for removal. The odor from a fire resides in the soot particles, so as the residues are lifted and suctioned up or wiped away, the smell lessens. 

Protein-Based Residues Pose Particular Challenges 

Many fires start in the kitchen, with the primary fuels being food and grease. The residues left are the dehydrated organic matter, very pungent, and tightly adhered to surfaces. SERVPRO uses solvents for this typically oiled-based soot and might need to include abrasive additives to the solvent or use abrasive tools to dislodge the malodorous soiling. 

Additional Deodorization Strategies 

If the debris removal and deep cleaning leave residual odors, SERVPRO has other options. We consider using thermal fogging to recreate the fire conditions. Deodorants combust and are dispersed, pairing with the smelly particles to neutralize them. Hydroxyl generators are another possibility, the radicals produced seeking out the airborne and settled soot particles. The soot particles found by the radicals convert to a non-malodorous state by chemical changes at the molecular level. 

SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County has answers for challenging fire and odor issues. To transform your home to “Like it never even happened,” call us at (315) 488-3900. 

More about Camillus.

Stopping the Migration of Fire Effects in Your Camillus Home

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

Plastic sheeting can be used to prevent the spread of fire damage to unaffected areas.

Containment options to keep fire damage from spreading

One of the most substantial obstacles that even our professional restorers face after fire losses in Camillus homes is stopping the migration of these effects so that our mitigation and restoration tactics can take hold. Containment is a considerable aspect of the work that we do, as these efforts help to limit the movement of airborne effects like soot, odors, smoke, and other particulates after the extinguishment of a fire. 

The establishment of work zones helps our technicians to immediately address the concentration of fire damage in Camillus homes without allowing these same hazardous effects from reaching unaffected regions of the property. While much of the containment work can occur with the combined uses of hydroxyl machines and air scrubbers, our SERVPRO team can hang 6mil plastic sheeting to physically deter the spread of particulates as well until the air gets filtered appropriately.

Another effective means of preventing the spread of odors and particulates throughout the house is to shut down any operating HVAC or heating system in the house. Circulating the air through these ducts can force soot, smoke, and odors into areas that would otherwise remain unaffected.

Our SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County team has to approach fire losses carefully to protect the properties of our customers, to make a loss, “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today at (315) 488-3900.

See more about Camillus, named after the Roman military leader Marcus Furius Camillus.

Fire, Smoke, and Soot Cleanup

12/28/2016 (Permalink)

A grease fire caused this fire in Auburn. This before pictures shows the mess left behind after the flames were put out. SERVPRO was there to help!

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of SW Onondaga County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 315-488-3900