Holiday Safety and Christmas Trees - Some Facts

In years past, real Christmas trees have come under scrutiny for the potential of fire hazard.

For many of us, growing up with the smell of pine from an freshly cut Christmas tree helped to create the atmosphere for the holiday, but are real Christmas trees the fire hazard they have been made out to be?

ServiceMaster of Prescott brings you some facts about Christmas tree fires...

Each year, it is no questions that fires involving Christmas trees do happen. In fact, between 1992 and 1996, of the 446,000 residential fires reported each year, around 530 involved a Christmas tree according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). This amounts to around one-tenth of one percent (0.12%) of all holiday fires.

This number is low! However there is more information to look at. Several questions need to be addresses as well...

What kind of "Christmas Trees" were involved?

Both Real and artificial Christmas trees are reported, however Christmas trees are not as likely to be the first item ignited in many residential fires.

Other household items are:

• newspapers 13 times more likely
• boxes or bags 10 times more likely
• curtains or drapes 9 times more likely
• linens 8 times more likely
• cleaning supplies 3 times more likely
• clothing 2 times more likely

What do these numbers mean?

Each year, approximately 33 million Real Christmas Trees are bought in the United States and enjoyed as the traditional centerpiece of the holiday celebration. According to the NFPA data, of all the Real Christmas trees enjoyed during the holiday season, fewer than one-one thousandth of a percent (0.001%) are involved in a residential fire!

As mentioned earlier, fires involving Real Christmas Trees do happen; but the chance of yours catching fire is very slim, especially if you follow some common sense precautions.

What you can do?

It is important to remember that at no time can a Real Christmas tree START a fire. It can however be ignited by an external source. According to NFPA published material, electrical causes and lamps were responsible for starting almost half (46.9%) of structure fires involving Christmas trees. Another quarter of the fires (24..6%) were caused by various open flames, sparks and embers. The remaining fires (28.5%) were started by a variety of ignition sources, including gas-fueled equipment and cigarettes.

Keeping the holiday safe from fire is an important responsibility for every family. According to the California Christmas Tree Association (CCTA), these simple steps can help guard against the rare, but serious, event of a holiday fire.

• Select the freshest-looking Real Tree available. Make a fresh cut across the tree's base and immediately place in water. Keep the tree's water container full at all times, checking the water level daily.
• Be extra careful with electricity, all open flames and other heat sources during the holidays.
• Check all Christmas tree lights, other electric decorations and electrical appliances with worn electrical cords. Use only UL approved electrical decorations and extension cords.
• Place the Christmas tree well away from heat registers, space heaters, fire places and wood stoves.
• Place the Christmas tree well clear of doors--keep the emergency escape route clear of trees, packages and furniture.
• Unplug tree lights and other decorations when out of the room or sleeping.

Don't let the very slim chance of a fire involving your Christmas tree keep you from enjoying the life, fragrance and tradition that real trees bring to your holiday celebration. A traditional Christmas begins with a Real Tree.

We hope that these suggestions will help during your holiday plans for this year or for many years in the future!

In the unfortunate event that a residential fire does happen, contact ServiceMaster of Prescott after the fire is out so we can start with the fire restoration and helping you to put your life back together...

For questions or comments please contact us at 928-445-9205 or visit us at http://www.servicemasterofprescott.com/fire-restoration-in-prescott

More Information:
Fire Restoration in Prescott

FAQ: Types of Fire Damage

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Keep Your Home Safe and Fire Free...Know The Facts Northern Arizona!

When the lights and the tree are put up for the holiday season the thoughts of "What if" are not far behind.  There is always a possible threat of a fire.  ServiceMaster of Prescott is much more than a carpet cleaning company, we can help with fire damage as well.  We want to provide our neighbors in Prescott and Northern Arizona the facts about fires.  It is our hope that this may help some of you think about fire safety and prevention this holiday season. 


Home Fire Statistics:

• December, January, February and March are peak months for home fire deaths.
• In 2003, there were 388,500 reported home fires in the United States, resulting in 3,145 deaths, 13,650 injuries and $5.9 billion in direct property damage.
• In the U.S., a civilian dies from a home fire roughly every three hours.

Winter-Related Causes:

• During winter months, heating equipment is the leading cause of home fires. About two-thirds of home heating fire deaths are caused by portable or fixed space heaters.
• Smoking is the leading cause of home fire deaths overall, but in the months of December, January and February, smoking and heating equipment cause similar shares of fire deaths.
• Candles are responsible for a growing percentage of home fires. In 2001, candles were responsible for 6% of the fatalities that occurred as a result of home fires, and are the second-leading cause of home fire injuries.
• Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries overall. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home cooking fires.
• Deep-fryers used for cooking turkeys and other holiday meals are causing more house fires and burn injuries, as these appliances have become more popular.
• In 2002, there were 241 Christmas tree fires in U.S. homes, resulting in 23 deaths, 12 injuries and $11.4 million in direct property damage.

Heating:

• Common causes of space heating home fires are: lack of regular cleaning (leading to creosote build-up) in wood-burning devices and associated chimneys and connectors; failing to give heaters sufficient space by installing or placing them too close to combustibles; basic flaws in the construction or design of wood-burning heating equipment; and fuel spills or leaks involving liquid- or gas-fueled heating equipment.

Candles:

• Over the last decade, candle fires have tripled.
• An estimated 18,000 home fires started by candles were reported in 2001, resulting in an estimated 190 civilian deaths and 1,450 civilian injuries.
• More than 40% of U.S. home candle fires begin in the bedroom, causing 24% of the deaths resulting from these fires.
• A study found that in one-third of all fatal home candle fires, the candles were being used for light, generally because power to the home had been shut off due to nonpayment (24%) or as a result of a temporary power outage (7%).
• One-third (34%) of candle fires occurred after candles were left unattended or inadequately controlled; 26% occurred when some form of combustible material came too close to the candle; 11% of home candle fires started after the user fell asleep.
• Christmas Day was the peak day of the year for home candle fires in 1999-2001. Second peak day was New Year's Day. Third peak day was Christmas Eve.
• Approximately 14% of the candle fires occur in December. This is almost twice the 8% monthly average.
• In 11% of the December candle fires, the fires began when a decoration caught fire. This was true in only 3% of the fires during the rest of the year.

Christmas Trees:

• The leading heat source attributed to Christmas tree fires, civilian injuries and property damage was electrical arcing, accounting for 130 fires (34%).
• The leading type of equipment involved in the ignition of Christmas trees were lights, cords, and plugs.

Who Suffers?

• Although children five and under make up about 9% of the country's population, they account for about 17% of home fire deaths.
• Older adults are also at greater risk of dying in a home fire than the population at large. Adults 65 and older face a risk twice the average, while people 85 and older have a risk that is three-and-a-half times more than average.
• States with the highest fire death rates tend to have higher percentages of:
• Households living in poverty
• People living in rural areas
• Smokers

Statistics are national and include most recent data available from the National Fire Protection Agency (www.nfpa.org).

If you have suffered the unfortunate event of a fire and are in need of fire damage repair and cleanup, we can help.  ServiceMaster of Prescott has an amazing team that will help in getting your home back in good shape after a fire.  For information about smoke damage and clean-up call us at (928) 445-9205.

More Information:

Types of Fire Damage

Fire Damage Restoration

Helpful Articles

Tips on Mold Prevention in Northern Arizona for the Wet Winter Months Ahead

Here in Prescott Arizona the crisp morning air has settled in and is a definite sign that winter is right around the corner.  This is the perfect time of year to watch out for molds that can quickly grow and expand. Often mold is contained near sources of water where it can easily grow and reproduce. As it grows, mold can breakdown and compromise the integrity and strength of the source in which it lives.

Mold spores are microscopic and are naturally found in the air we breathe indoors and outdoors. When large amounts of spores grow, one’s health may be compromised. Mold can be killed, but if it is not removed properly, it can remain in the area just cleaned and the dry spores can be released into the air. Mold remediation services can help eliminate the mold in your home and personal items affected by water damage.

Service Master of Prescott knows that prevention, however, is what will help keep your lungs healthy and homes and buildings strong. We’ve put together a few tips that are efficient and realistic and can help you keep mold from infesting your home:


Service Master of Prescott General Home and Building Maintenance Tips:

• Keep all areas clean.
• Make sure there is good air circulation. Use an exhaust fan or open a window when showering, cooking, and washing the dishes.
• Prevent mold and water damage by turning off the water flow to broken appliances and pipes.
• Replace cracked or defective mortar in basements. If you find your basement is wet or has water leaking into it, inspect the outside drainage systems.
• Spread moisture-barrier materials in crawl spaces over the soil. Heavy roofing paper or plastic film made of polyethylene can be used for this. Make sure there is good ventilation in the crawl space and, if possible, do not enclose it. One may need to use a fan to blow out humid air from under the building.
• One can get rid of humidity or dampness within a building by heating it for a short time. After heating, open up the doors and windows, or use an exhaust fan, to let out the air that is moist.
• Hire a professional roofing contractor to cover a damaged roof with a tarp or tent. This will help protect the building from the elements.
• If there are freezing temperatures, take measures to insulate pipes inside and out to ensure they will not crack and/or burst.
• Make sure all the seals on the windows and doors are not compromised and in good-working condition.
• Clean and repair roof gutters regularly.
• Make sure the ground around your building slopes away from the foundation so water does not collect around or enter in to it.
• Act quickly if you see condensation on windows, pipes, or walls inside a building. Dry out the area and determine if the source of the condensation is from a leak or the result of high humidity.

After a Flood or Heavy Rains:

• Work fast. Call in a mold remediation service, which will help in the cleaning and disinfecting of your home from toxins and spores mold can release.
• Lower the humidity and temperature in the building: molds do not like these conditions. Open up windows if the air outside is less humid than the air inside. Otherwise, turn on an air conditioner and a dehumidifier.
• Dispose of moldy items in a sealed bag. Objects that can be saved should be frozen (which deactivates mold) or dried out. Mold remediation services can assist with restoring many of your items, including documents, pictures, and books.
• Make sure your building has good ventilation. Use a fan, if necessary, to promote good air circulation.
• Remove as much standing water in a building as quickly and safely as possible after disconnecting all electronic equipment inside the building.

To sum it all up, the two main things to remember in mold prevention are:

1. Keep everything clean, and 2. Keep everything dry.

Simple steps can be taken to prevent mold damage as well as water damage during the winter months. However, keep the number for ServiceMaster of Prescott, (928) 445-9205, a mold remediation service handy should you require our help and services. Our professionals can efficiently and quickly ensure your home is safe, dry, and mold-free.

More Information:

Mold FAQ

Mold Removal Services

Helpful Articles and Tips

Keep Your Home Safe and Fire Free...Know The Facts Northern Arizona!

When the lights and the tree are put up for the holiday season the thoughts of "What if" are not far behind.  There is always a possible threat of a fire.  ServiceMaster of Prescott is much more than a carpet cleaning company, we can help with fire damage as well.  We want to provide our neighbors in Prescott and Northern Arizona the facts about fires.  It is our hope that this may help some of you think about fire safety and prevention this holiday season. 


Home Fire Statistics:

• December, January, February and March are peak months for home fire deaths.
• In 2003, there were 388,500 reported home fires in the United States, resulting in 3,145 deaths, 13,650 injuries and $5.9 billion in direct property damage.
• In the U.S., a civilian dies from a home fire roughly every three hours.

Winter-Related Causes:

• During winter months, heating equipment is the leading cause of home fires. About two-thirds of home heating fire deaths are caused by portable or fixed space heaters.
• Smoking is the leading cause of home fire deaths overall, but in the months of December, January and February, smoking and heating equipment cause similar shares of fire deaths.
• Candles are responsible for a growing percentage of home fires. In 2001, candles were responsible for 6% of the fatalities that occurred as a result of home fires, and are the second-leading cause of home fire injuries.
• Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries overall. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home cooking fires.
• Deep-fryers used for cooking turkeys and other holiday meals are causing more house fires and burn injuries, as these appliances have become more popular.In 2002, there were 241 Christmas tree fires in U.S. homes, resulting in 23 deaths, 12 injuries and $11.4 million in direct property damage.

Heating:

• Common causes of space heating home fires are: lack of regular cleaning (leading to creosote build-up) in wood-burning devices and associated chimneys and connectors; failing to give heaters sufficient space by installing or placing them too close to combustibles; basic flaws in the construction or design of wood-burning heating equipment; and fuel spills or leaks involving liquid- or gas-fueled heating equipment.

Candles:

• Over the last decade, candle fires have tripled.
• An estimated 18,000 home fires started by candles were reported in 2001, resulting in an estimated 190 civilian deaths and 1,450 civilian injuries.
• More than 40% of U.S. home candle fires begin in the bedroom, causing 24% of the deaths resulting from these fires.
• A study found that in one-third of all fatal home candle fires, the candles were being used for light, generally because power to the home had been shut off due to nonpayment (24%) or as a result of a temporary power outage (7%).
• One-third (34%) of candle fires occurred after candles were left unattended or inadequately controlled; 26% occurred when some form of combustible material came too close to the candle; 11% of home candle fires started after the user fell asleep.
• Christmas Day was the peak day of the year for home candle fires in 1999-2001. Second peak day was New Year's Day. Third peak day was Christmas Eve.
• Approximately 14% of the candle fires occur in December. This is almost twice the 8% monthly average.
• In 11% of the December candle fires, the fires began when a decoration caught fire. This was true in only 3% of the fires during the rest of the year.

Christmas Trees:

• The leading heat source attributed to Christmas tree fires, civilian injuries and property damage was electrical arcing, accounting for 130 fires (34%).
• The leading type of equipment involved in the ignition of Christmas trees were lights, cords, and plugs.

Who Suffers?

• Although children five and under make up about 9% of the country's population, they account for about 17% of home fire deaths.
• Older adults are also at greater risk of dying in a home fire than the population at large. Adults 65 and older face a risk twice the average, while people 85 and older have a risk that is three-and-a-half times more than average.
• States with the highest fire death rates tend to have higher percentages of:
• Households living in poverty
• People living in rural areas
• Smokers

Statistics are national and include most recent data available from the National Fire Protection Agency (www.nfpa.org).

If you have suffered the unfortunate event of a fire and are in need of fire damage repair and cleanup, we can help.  ServiceMaster of Prescott has an amazing team that will help in getting your home back in good shape after a fire.  For information about smoke damage and clean-up call us at (928) 445-9205.

More Information:

Types of Fire Damage

Fire Damage Restoration

More Fire Damage Information

Common Winter Homeowner Claims

The winter is a busy season for ServiceMaster of Prescott as a majority of the claims we handle during the winter season are related to water damage, fire damage, or freezing related losses. Our experts have experience in getting these winter related claims handled quickly and easily.

If you experience any of the following damages, though here in Prescott and the Verde Valley we do not have to worry about many of these, this winter has already shown to be very eventful. We cannot say what you may be affected by, but contact us if you do. For services in Prescott and surrounding areas call: 928-445-9205 or if in the Verde Valley call: 928-634-5402. We are here anytime day or night for immediate help!

#1. Frozen Pipes
Pipe freezing occurs when the pipes in side or outside your home are exposed to freezing temperatures. Power outages or poor heating can cause your pipes to freeze and burst, leaving you with large amounts of water inside of your home! Floors, walls, ceilings, furniture and contents can be destroyed overnight. Preventing and getting rid of mold can be very expensive, contact ServiceMaster right away!

#2. Ice Damming
Do you have large icicles hanging from your gutters? This can be a symptom of a very serious roof problem called ice damming. When ice clogs up your gutter, melting snow on your roof has nowhere to escape. When water can’t escape, it sits on your roof for an extended period of time. As a result of sitting, re-freezing and re-melting, it is only a matter of time before water finds its way underneath your shingles and into your home. This can lead to costs to remove mold or even replacing the whole roof!

#3. Collapse from Weight of Ice/Snow
Homeowners who have to shovel long driveways each winter know just how heavy snow can get. It’s no wonder that when snow and ice build up on a roof, deck or awning, they can cause a collapse. Collapses occur mostly during winter months for this reason. A collapse of your roof, deck or awning can create a large and expensive clean up.

#4. Missing Shingles & Siding
Heavy winter winds can cause shingles and pieces of siding to blow off of your home, leaving it exposed to the elements. Have you ever driven through your development after a windstorm and seen a whole row of houses with strips of shingles and siding missing? Just one heavy gust can cause a lot of damage. Have your roof inspected regularly.

#5. Soot Damage from Fireplace
Nothing beats sitting by a warm fire with a cup of hot chocolate while watching the snow fall outside. When the fire gets too big, however, it can leave permanent smoke marks on the ceiling and walls around your fireplace. Getting rid of smoke damage requires restoration by a professional, contact ServiceMaster!

#6. Trees Down on Property & Home
Having a tree fall down in your yard can lead to a weekend of work and a large bill. When a tree falls on your home, it can be a life-changing disaster. After a tree falls on a home, it is often unlivable. Be sure to keep your trees trimmed.

#7. Fire from Space Heater
Space heaters are a common culprit for winter house fires. To ensure that your home is heated safely, keep your space heaters away from combustible materials. Unfortunately, even the most carefully maintained space heater can cause a fire in your home. When a fire occurs in your home, contact ServiceMaster right away to get the smoke damage cleaned up fast.

If you have suffered from any of the above damages, contact ServiceMaster immediately. Our restoration service get things back to the way they used to be, restoring peace of mind. If your property has suffered fire, water, or smoke damage, turn to the expert team at ServiceMaster Restore® to help! Our emergency call center is prepared to handle your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Call us now at (928) 445-9205 or (928) 634-5402.

More info:

Water Damage Restoration

Fire Damage Restoration

Restoration Services in Prescott AZ

What to Do Following a House Fire

As the temperatures start to dip in Northern Arizona and it gets colder outside the chances of a fire or smoke damage increases in your home. Everything from heater and fireplace malfunctions, common cooking and electrical issues can ignite a fire.

Experiencing a house fire is a frightening, sickening, and very upsetting experience. In the aftermath of a fire, it is very important to know what to do to protect yourself and others from any possibility of further harm.

ServiceMaster of Prescott brings you this article will help you with key things to do and know after a fire.

1 - Ask when it is safe to enter a house or other building on the property after a fire. Do not enter a house or other building that has been affected by a fire until you have listened to the professionals telling you that is okay to do so.

2 - Recognize that if a house or building is too badly damaged, you may not be allowed back inside at all.

3 - Contact family members that may not have been with you. Let them know what happened, let them know that you're okay and let them know the information that is necessary. Don't assume that someone is going to contact your insurance. This is the number one thing that you need to do. If you are a tenant, contact the owner/landlord and/or their insurance company.

4 - Understand what happens with a "fire report". A fire report will discuss what structure the house was in, what area was involved, the time of the incident, the date of the incident and it will have an incident number if it comes through the Yavapai County fire department.

5 - Know how to get a copy of a fire report. You may be able to call the YC fire department for a copy.

6 - Secure the property. If you have not already being told to do so, it is important to secure your property to prevent possible looting. Talk to emergency services on how best to go about this. Most insurance policies require this.

7 - Consider the clean up requirements. If your house has been damaged rather than destroyed, interior clean up will be required. Keep in mind that damage to the property often goes beyond what the eye can see. (Removal of a destroyed house should only be done by professionals like ServiceMaster of Prescott.) You should spend a little time assessing whether you think you can perform the clean up. However in most cases fire damage restoration services are covered by the insurance company.



8 - Know how to handle smoke and soot damage after a fire. If you do make the decision to clean up yourself, be aware that soot and smoke damage might be significant and often creates a film on the walls. There will also be residue from the extinguishers used by the fire crew. It may be easier to contact a restoration company to handle the smoke damage.

9 - If water hoses were used to put out your fire drying your home is very important. It is best to ServiceMaster of Prescott to do the fire damage and water damage restoration at the same time. Water damage can lead to more damage or even mold if not dried properly.

10 - Seek counseling if needed and reassure children. Having your house damaged or destroyed by fire is extremely traumatic and can have lasting impacts on each family member, depending on his or her ability to cope.

If you ever suffer a house fire, we hope that these tips will help. For fire damage restoration services in Prescott, Cottonwood, and Sedona contact ServiceMaster of Prescott ASAP!

How to Handle Your Home's Mold Remediation in Cottonwood, Sedona, and Prescott

Mold is a nasty fungus that thrives in environments of excessive moisture, and recently in Northern Arizona we have had a lot of that! The recent monsoon season has left a lot of water running into please it shouldn't have. As these areas continue to be moist, we are going to see more mold remediation cases in Prescott and the Verde Valley.

If you live in the harder hit areas such as Cottonwood and Sedona, mold becomes a common issue for property owners, especially after our monsoon floods, plumbing leaks, or water damage. It can take effect and thrive quickly after the introduction of water or a moisture source to an area, and it can cause damage in as little as 48 hours. Mold damages properties, and can cause health concerns, allergens, and poor air quality.

With so many negative effects associated with it, the natural inclination for many is to try to remove mold on your own as soon as it is discovered. However, attempting mold removal and mildew removal on your own can make the damage and danger worse by releasing mold spores and exacerbating the issue.

The first step to dealing with mold is always to contact ServiceMaster of Prescott. We have the right tools and training to get the job done. Simply wiping away the mold is not going to solve the problem. A restoration professional is needed to inspect the damage and ensure the mold removal is handled properly.

Due to the microscopic nature of mold spores, removing all mold from a property is not always a realistic goal; however, mold remediation professionals can repair the damage, restoring your home or business to a healthy, clean state.

Regardless of the cause, the mold remediation process begins by contacting mold remediation professionals like the experts at ServiceMaster Restore®, who will:

Inspect and assess the mold damage

Contain the mold

Filter the air

Remove the mold

Clean the area and belongings

Restore the property

For more on mold removal and remediation, please use the following links:

Mold Removal in Cottonwood, Sedona, and Prescott

Mold FAQ

Mold Remediation Services

My House Caught on Fire - What Do I Do Next?

No homeowner can ever be fully prepared for his/her house to catch on fire and if this does occur, many have no idea what to do next. The professionals at ServiceMaster of Prescott bring you these tips.

If the fire is fairly larger-scaled the fire department will be called to the home to put the fire out. Once this happens, the fire department will leave your home and it is usually up to the homeowner to begin the process of recovering the home.

The homeowner should get into contact with his/her insurance agent or company immediately to let them know what has happened. An adjuster will be sent to assess the damage and cost.

If your home and belongs are salvageable, you will need to hire a company to help get your home back to the way it was. A fire restoration company provides all of the services necessary to do this.

ServiceMaster of Prescott is here for you 24 hours a day, so if fire damage does happen you can call on us and we will be there to help you!

If your home is not salvageable, we will do our best to save and restore each item that has not been completely destroyed by the fire, water, smoke, or soot.

If the damage is severe you may need to leave the home. If you must leave, it is still vital that you do not waste any time to begin the restoring of your home.

While the insurance company processing the claim, it is of important to begin trying to prevent more damage to your home due to excess moisture from the water used to extinguish the fire. Moisture will cause a terrible odor and the formation of mold. If this does happen the mold and water could further damage items or areas in your home which were otherwise salvageable.

Our suggestion would be to begin the dry-out process as soon as possible. Many times insurance adjusters will not even come to inspect your loss until the dry-out process is complete.

Remember, ServiceMaster of Prescott is there in any capacity that you may need us. We are ready to take your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us at Prescott Area 928-445-9205 or Verde Valley 928-634-5402.

More Information:

Types of Fire Damage
Fire Restoration Services
More about Fire Damage

Got Mold in Northern Arizona? What to do next?

Molds thrive in moist environments resulting from a flood, a slow leak, a broken pipe, or just high humidity. With as wet as it has been in Northern Arizona this monsoon season, humidity and water seeping into places as been common occurrence, mold is the next issue we face.

Mold can grow in as little as 48 hours, and if that’s not enough to scare you; if left untreated can cause extensive health problems for you and your family and even pets. Also, the dampness caused by nature or a problematic plumbing issue becomes a dilemma because it provides the moisture that supports not only the growth or bacteria and fungi (i.e. mold) but also insects.

Your first instinct may be to “get rid of it” by killing the mold but there is a specific process that must take place to not only ensure the safety of the residents but also to guarantee that all mold traces have been effectively cleared away. For those living in the Cottonwood, Sedona, Camp Verde, Prescott and other surrounding areas your first step is to contact ServiceMaster of Prescott!

What to expect

Upon arrival our staff will inspect and assess the mold damage and then work to contain the mold. Next, we will filter the air and remove the mold properly. Lastly, we clean the area and belongings and restore the property. Our goal is simple: to ensure safe and effective mold removal and mold remediation for our customers.

Who we are

All ServiceMaster Restore Quality Restoration Vendors have completed intensive mold remediation training and received instruction in the proper procedures for handling mold claims. All are prepared to handle small (10 square feet or less) and isolated areas affected by mold that may be encountered in the course of normal water damage mitigation services. A large number of our franchises are trained and certified to perform larger mold remediation projects.



More Information:
Mold Remediation
Water Damage Restoration
Flood Water Cleanup

When Carpet is Damaged by Water

When water damage strikes your home or office, know who to call - the skilled experts at ServiceMaster of Prescott. Whether damage was done by bursting pipes, appliance malfunction, harsh Northern Arizona monsoons or winter temps.

ServiceMaster Restore® has the precise equipment needed to quickly remove the water, dry out the affected area, inspect for and remove mold, clean carpet and upholstery and so much more! Our professionals are trained and certified to identify different types of water damage and find the source of the problem. With our prompt service; we will have your space functioning again in no time.

As soon as water strikes, treat it like an emergency, the first thing to do is contact our highly qualified team available 24/7. Next, take pictures of the damage for your insurance company. 

Water damage in carpeting

In some cases claims increase substantially if prompt action is not taken to contain the damage. Our professionals will inspect the area to determine precisely what is needed to extract all the water, don’t worry about the hard to reach areas; we’ve got that covered!

If carpet was water damaged, we are more than prepared. Our initial step in the process is removing the water from the carpets and padding in order to prevent mold from growing and then drying out the area with specialized blowers. Our thorough process can involve lifting the carpet to ensure the floor underneath has been completely dried. This process will work to bring the humidity levels in the home back down to normal. ServiceMaster Restore® professionals have special equipment to find hidden water and eliminate pockets of water and moisture that can cause higher humidity levels and ultimately, mold growth.

We go to great lengths to ensure sure that everything is completely dry and clean so mold doesn't form and no microbial growth can cause health issues later on. Cleaning and sanitizing as part of flood restoration will also help to keep odors to a minimum.

To complete the process, ServiceMaster cleaning professionals can do a final inspection to make sure the entire area is dry and free from any moisture and mold.

As your authorized ServiceMaster Restore® and ServiceMaster Clean® providers we can be trusted (view testimonials) to be ready and available for all kinds of water damage; we are reliable, precise and act quickly to rectify the damage done to your home or office.

“Restoring Peace of Mind”

ServiceMaster of Prescott is centrally located in the Prescott Valley area with service surrounding Yavapai County including the Quad Cities region of north-central Arizona and Verde Valley.

More Information
Water Damage Restoration
Types of Water Damage
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Tips To Deal With Flood Damage in Northern Arizona

Timing and skill are essential when it comes to cleaning up flood damage. Water in your home can occur for many different reasons, whether it is bursting pipes from harsh Northern Arizona winters, appliance malfunction, firefighting efforts, or during torrential rains during our Arizona monsoon season.

There are a few things home owners can do to get the drying process started, but it is important to call in a professional to make sure the job is done correctly and thoroughly so no secondary damage occurs. If you contact ServiceMaster of Prescott as soon as the damage occurs, we will walk you through the following steps to increase the likelihood of a full restoration!

Act Immediately

Flood cleanup needs to start as soon as possible after the flood damage. This will minimize damage from the water and keep your cleanup costs down.

• Step One
  The first step in taking care of flood damage is removing the water and all objects in the area where the water damage occurred. This sometimes includes carpeting...
• Step Two
  Once most of the water is gone, the drying process starts. Dehumidifiers help to draw out the moisture, and blowers move the air around to dry the area.
• Step Three
  Once the area is dry, we will clean and sanitize all the contents of the home to keep mold from growing.
• Step Four
  The last step in flood damage restoration is the actual restoration. Once wet drywall and carpets are removed and replaced, furniture from storage or other parts of the house can be returned.

We will inspect the house for any issues that may develop into issues for the future!

If Not Done Correctly

The correct water removal and drying process, as part of the flood cleanup, helps to minimize overall damage. If left standing, water causes hardwood floors, loosens vinyl and causes carpets to mold. If the water evaporates on its own, it may absorb into the ceiling tiles and other items, causing secondary damage and increasing cleanup costs in the long run. It’s always best to hire a professional to clean up the flood damage the right way.

At ServiceMaster of Prescott we are here to help you restore your home to the way it should be after suffering flood and water damage. We are available 24 hours - 7 days a week. Contact us today!

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Types of Water Damage
Water Restoration FAQ
Flood Cleanup

Water Damage

Water damage describes a large number of possible losses caused by water intruding where it will enable attack of a material or system by destructive processes such as rotting of wood, growth, rusting of steel, de-laminating of materials such as plywood, and many, many others. the damage may be imperceptibly slow and minor such as water spots that could eventually mar a surface, or it may be instantaneous and catastrophic such as flooding. However fast it occurs, water damage is a major contributor to loss of property.

When disaster strikes our goal is to restore your home and peace of mind as quickly as possible. Our team of trained, caring and professional water damage technicians are here for you and your family.

We will be on site quickly, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. With rapid response, floors, walls, and personal property can often be restored. When you call, our staff will give you the personal attention you deserve.

Not All Water Damage Is Alike

There are three categories of water involved in a water damage situation. The category of water will help determine the proper water restoration method used by our professionals.

• Category 1 water is known as clean water or white water. It is the fresh water that is pumped into the home, which means a Category 1 water damage source could be an overflowing bathtub or sink, broken water supply lines, including dishwasher or washing machine malfunctions that involve the water line, or a damaged faucet. White water is harmless to people. After 48 hours, a Category 1 can become a Category 2.
• Category 2 water is commonly known as gray water. Gray water is wastewater from sinks, bathtubs and showers, as well as water that is discharged by washing machines and dishwashers. It also includes the wastewater that has not come into contact with human waste. Category 2 water damage occurs when one of these appliances malfunctions. Gray water will likely have significant contamination, and can pose a health risk. Due to quick bacteria and mold growth, Category 2 becomes a Category 3 if left untreated for 2 days or more.
• Category 3 water is known as black water. The primary source of black water is sewage. Black water also occurs during a flood, due to the potential for chemicals found in fertilizers, animal waste, ground debris and other contaminated areas. Black water has disease-causing organisms or toxins, and is wholly unsanitary.

Because every water damage issue is unique and involves different safety categories of water, we offer a full range of services to cover water cleanup projects of any size or scope.

ServiceMaster Restore Water Mitigation Services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Water Extraction
• Structural Drying
• Floor Drying (wood, carpet, and vinyl)
• Carpet Cleaning
• Upholstery Cleaning
• Mold Inspection
• Sewage Clean-up
• Antimicrobial Treatment
• Water Damage Repair
• Flood Restoration
• Structural Dehumidification
• Content Drying
• Content Cleaning
• Rug Cleaning
• Mold Remediation
• Sewage Remediation
• Odor Removal
• Stain Removal

If water is threatening to ruin your home, call the professionals at ServiceMaster of Prescott. We'll prevent the water from wreaking anymore havoc on your home.

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Water Damage Restoration

Sewage Clean-up

Carpet Cleaning

How to Kill Black Mold in Prescott and Ensure Your Home is Safe

Sinister sounding and potentially dangerous, toxic black mold can strike fear in the heart of any homeowner. But by being able to identify black mold and understand how to prevent and control its growth, you can help to keep your home free of toxic black mold.

Black mold is most likely to appear in areas of the home that are particularly warm, humid and damp. Basements or crawlspaces that may have leaks or other sources of moisture are often susceptible to toxic black mold growth. Black mold is readily identifiable by its color. Whereas most other molds are green or gray in color, toxic black mold is a dark black.

Black mold can cause an array of allergic reactions and health problems. In most cases, depending on the length of exposure and the number of spores inhaled, symptoms can include chronic fatigue or headaches, fever, irritation to the eyes, mucous membranes of the mouth, nose and throat, sneezing, rashes, and chronic coughing. In cases of prolonged or severe exposure, or cases exacerbated by an allergic reaction, more extreme symptoms can present, including nausea, vomiting, and bleeding in the lungs and nose

Once you’ve identified the presence of black mold in your home, it is important to take immediate action to treat and kill black mold through mold remediation. If faced with a black mold issue, the first thing to do is to immediately contact emergency mold remediation professionals, like the experts at ServiceMaster of Prescott. Our professionals have the training, experience, and equipment to safely treat and kill black mold. We can restore safety to your home by:

• Locating mold and water sources that feed mold in your home

• Assessing the damage caused by the mold

• Disposing of mold-infested porous materials

• Capturing, filtering, and scrubbing microscopic mold spores from the air

• Repairing and reconstructing damaged areas to restore your home to a safe level

• Isolating and containing the mold by using techniques like physical barriers and negative air pressure to prevent it from spreading

• Cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing belongings as needed

• Removing mold with antimicrobial and anti-fungal treatments

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Professional Cleaners in Verde Valley

Mold Removal in Verde Valley

Biohazard Cleanup in Verde Valley

After A Fire in Prescott! Returning to Normal

A fire will change your life in many ways that you cannot imagine. Knowing where to begin and who can help you is important. The U.S. Fire Administration hopes you find the following information useful in getting through the things you must do after the fire.

What to expect

• A fire in a home, whether you live in an apartment, a single family, or multifamily home, can cause serious damage. The building and many of the things in your home may have been badly damaged by flames, heat, smoke, and water.

• You will find that things the fire did not burn up are now ruined by smoke and soggy with water used to put out the flames. Anything you want to save or re-use will need to be carefully cleaned.

• The firefighters may have cut holes in the walls of the building to look for any hidden flames. They may even have cut holes in the roof to let out the heat and smoke. Cleanup will take time and patience.

Use Caution

It is important to understand the risk to your safety and health even after the fire is out. The soot and dirty water left behind may contain things that could make you sick.

Be very careful if you go into your home and if you touch any fire-damaged items. Ask the advice of the fire department, local building official, your insurance agent, and restoration specialists before starting to clean or make repairs.

Frequently asked questions about fire department actions

Q. Why did they break windows and cut holes in the roof?

A. As a fire burns, it moves up and down and across, growing very fast. Breaking windows and cutting holes in the roof is called ventilation. This slows the fire’s growth. It helps get rid of dark smoke that makes it hard for firefighters to see where they are going. It helps them fight the fire more quickly. In the end, ventilation can help save lives and property.

Q. Why do firefighters cut holes in walls?

A. This is done so that the fire department is sure that the fire is completely out and that there is no fire left inside the walls or in other hidden places.

Q. How can I get a copy of the fire report?

A. In most areas, a fire report is a public document. Ask for it at the fire department or fire marshal’s office. The fire report will help you with information that your insurance company and other official offices may request.

Do’s for House Fire Restoration

• Contact your homeowners’ insurance agent immediately after a house fire.

• Contact a professional restoration company to begin the cleanup, repair, and restoration process.

• Find a restoration company that works directly with your insurance company to ensure the best settlement possible.

It is extremely important that you contact your homeowners’ insurance agent directly after a house fire, as time is of the essence when dealing with fire and water damage. Mold and mildew can begin growing within 24 hours after a house fire, so it is essential to begin the house fire restoration process as soon as possible. It is always best to contact a professional restoration company that works directly with your insurance company, as this ensures the two companies have a working relationship and are likely to come to a reasonable settlement so you have as few out-of-pocket costs as possible. It also guarantees the company you hire employs reputable contractors that operate using solid business practices and do everything they can to work with your specific needs.

Don'ts for House Fire Restoration

• Do not enter your home after a house fire.

• Do not attempt fire damage cleanup yourself.

• Do not tamper with anything in or around your home after a fire.

You should never enter your home directly after a house fire, as this can damage your home further and cause unnecessary danger to you and your family. It is also dangerous for you to attempt house fire restoration yourself, as doing so requires professional-grade equipment most homeowners do not have and expertise that only a professional fire restorer has. You should also avoid tampering with anything in or around your home after a house fire, as this can negatively influence your insurance company’s estimate if they are unable to examine everything in its original state.

House fire restoration is something you should always leave to a professional restoration company, as they have the proper tools, expertise, and experience necessary to handle any job. For more information about things you should and should not do after a house fire, it can be helpful to contact a professional restoration company.

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Fire Damage Restoration in Verde Valley

Smoke Damage Cleaning in Verde Valley

Professional Cleaners in Verde Valley

Basement Flooding in Prescott

A wet basement is more than a nuisance. If your basement includes finished living space, any kind of moisture can ruin carpeting, drywall, and framing. Even if you have a crawl space or just use your basement for storage, a simple case of condensation can buckle hardwood flooring on the level above and spawn harmful mold.

If you have a soggy basement, you're not alone. The American Society of Home Inspectors, based in Des Plaines, IL, estimates 60 percent of U.S. homes have wet basements, and 38 percent run the risk of basement mold.

The water most often comes from rainfall and melting snow. Even a small storm can trigger a deluge a house with a 1,500-square-foot roof sheds 1,000 gallons of water for every inch of falling rain. In tougher cases, the problem is rising groundwater, which may even be fed by an underground spring. Once the water accumulates around your foundation, it works its way inside through cracks, joints, and porous material.

What to do if Your Basement Floods

If your basement has flooded, there are some really important things you should know. When in doubt, don’t enter the flooded area until you are told it is safe by a professional qualified to do so.

First and foremost, consider your family’s health and safety.

Entering a wet basement could be hazardous! Before you enter your basement, consider the following:

• Electrical Shock – When your basement is wet, there is a legitimate risk of electrical shock. If you are positive that you can safely do so, turn off your home’s power at the main breaker switches.
• Gas leaks – Protect yourself against gas leaks. If you smell gas, leave the house right away
• Pollutants – Sewage can contain bacteria and transmit disease and the floodwater in your basement may have originated from the sanitary sewer and contain raw sewage. Wear protective items including gloves, safety glasses, a face mask and be sure to wash thoroughly after any contact with sewage or items touched by sewage.
• Chemicals – Cleaning may expose you to a wide range of contaminants, including those from the cleaning agents being used, as well as those that may have entered from flood waters. When you get to the cleaning stage, be sure to ventilate well and limit your exposure to contact and exposure as best you can.
• Structural damage – While this is not that common, a flood with certain conditions may weaken walls or even ceiling structures. If there is any concern that structural integrity has been compromised, or you simply don’t know, leave the area and call in the experts.

Call a ServiceMaster of Prescott immediately.

Depending of the nature of the flooding, also consider…
If the flooding is due to a burst water supply pipe in your home, and if you are safely able to do so, shut off the main incoming water valve as this could help minimize the damage. You will probably know this is the case because the water will be clean, and likely coming down through the house from an upper level. In the future, make note of where this shut-off is and keep access clear.
If the flooding is due to a sewage backup (or you are not sure), do not flush the toilet, run a washing machine, dishwasher or any other feature with a drain since this is likely to increase the flooding.

For more information on restoration services see ServiceMaster of Prescott

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Water Damage Restoration in Verde Valley

Fire Damage Cleaning in Verde Valley

Carpet Cleaning in Verde Valley

Mold Removal in Prescott

Mold is a major-league nuisance. It blackens the grout lines in your shower, discolors drywall, shows up as black spots on siding, darkens decks, and grows on and rots damp wood everywhere. Even worse, it can be bad for your health. It releases microscopic spores that cause:

• Allergies
• Nasal and sinus congestion
• Cough, sneezing and respiratory issues
• Throat irritation
• Eye irritation

Reducing mold exposure in the home or office can help to reduce the negative health consequences of the fungus. Once you have identified signs of mold exposure to your property, the next step is to call a professional—like the experts at ServiceMaster of Prescott—to assist with mold exposure treatment.
These health signs and symptoms can indicate a need to check for mold exposure—especially if there is visible mold around the house.
Almost every home gets mold infestations. The trick is to stop them before they get big and harm both you and your home.

Big infestations can be bad for your health, particularly if you are an allergy sufferer or have a weakened immune system. When you discover an extensive mold problem, we recommend that you call ServiceMaster of Prescott.


We can help reduce mold exposure and restore safety to your property by:

• Locating mold and water sources that feed mold in your home
• Assessing the damage caused by the mold
• Isolating and containing the mold
• Capturing, filtering, and scrubbing microscopic mold spores from the air
• Removing mold with antimicrobial and anti-fungal treatments
• Disposing of mold-infested porous materials
• Cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing belongings as needed
• Repairing and reconstructing damaged areas to restore your home to a safe level

For more information on cleaning services see ServiceMaster of Prescott

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Carpet Cleaning in Verde Valley

Water Damage Restoration in Verde Valley

Professional Cleaning in Verde Valley

Steps To Successful Water Damage Restoration in Prescott

When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. ServiceMaster of Prescott Professionals respond immediately and we use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. We closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly. 

Water damage happens—floods, plumbing leaks, broken pipes, storms, sewage backups, fires, and appliance malfunctions can all cause unexpected water-related destruction in your home or business. The extent of the loss caused by water damage, however, depends largely on the speed and effectiveness of water damage cleanup and restoration. When the worst happens, follow these steps to water damage restoration and get back to normal as soon as possible.

What To Do First

• The first step in successful water damage restoration is to contact emergency restoration professionals, like the experts at ServiceMaster of Prescott.

• We take control of your situation. By inspecting and assessing the water damage, restoration professionals are able to determine the most effective way to cleanup the mess before more damage can be done.

• Once we have a plan, we will remove and extract as much water as possible to mitigate and prevent further mold and water damage to your property.

• Next, our restoration team will dry and dehumidify the area to further remove water and moisture from the area.

• Once the area is dry, we will then clean and sanitize so that you can begin the restoration process with a clean start.

• Finally, our team will repair damage as necessary to complete the successful water damage restoration process.

What You Can Do Until Help Arrives

• After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?

• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.

• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.

• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.

• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.

• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.

• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.

• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.

• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.

• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.

• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.

• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.

• Don't use television or other household appliances.

• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Don’t wait! Call ServiceMaster of Prescott, the AZ monsoon specialists, open 24/7 365 days a year serving all of Yavapai county.


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Carpet Cleaning
Upholstery Cleaning