Recent Posts

The Silent Threat: How Water Leaks Impact Businesses and What You Can Do About It

3/5/2024 (Permalink)

Water leaks are often overlooked, yet they pose a significant risk to businesses of all sizes. In fact, water leaks are the most common form of loss reported by businesses, and their consequences can be far-reaching. Let's explore the effects of water leaks on businesses and how SERVPRO of Auburn/Enumclaw can help mitigate the damage and minimize downtime.


Water leaks can cause extensive damage to property, including structural damage to buildings, flooring, walls, and equipment. The presence of water can lead to mold growth, compromising indoor air quality and posing health risks to employees and customers alike.


The cost of water damage can be substantial, encompassing repair and restoration expenses, as well as potential fines for non-compliance with building codes and regulations. Additionally, insurance premiums may increase following a water damage claim, further adding to the financial burden on businesses.


Perhaps the most significant impact of water leaks on businesses is the disruption to operations and business downtime. Water damage can force businesses to close temporarily, resulting in lost productivity, missed deadlines, and dissatisfied customers. The longer the downtime, the greater the potential loss in revenue and reputation damage.

At SERVPRO of Auburn/Enumclaw, we understand the urgency of addressing water leaks promptly and effectively. Our team of highly trained professionals is equipped with advanced technology and expertise to handle water damage restoration quickly and efficiently. We offer 24/7/365 emergency response services to mitigate further damage and minimize business interruption.

In addition to water damage restoration, SERVPRO of Auburn/Enumclaw provides comprehensive mold remediation services to address any mold growth resulting from water leaks. Our goal is not only to restore your property to its preloss condition but also to ensure a safe and healthy environment for your employees and customers.

With SERVPRO of Auburn/Enumclaw by your side, you can rest assured that your business is in good hands. Don't let water leaks jeopardize your business's success—contact us today for fast, reliable, and professional water damage restoration services.

Remember, when it comes to water damage, swift action is crucial. Trust SERVPRO of Auburn/Enumclaw to handle the aftermath of water leaks and minimize downtime for your business.

Winter Warmth without Worry: A Guide to Preventing Indoor Fires

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

As winter approaches and temperatures drop, many of us turn to fireplaces, electric and gas heaters, and festive decorations to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in our homes. However, with these cozy additions comes an increased risk of indoor fires. To ensure a safe and joyful holiday season, it's crucial to take proactive measures to prevent fires. In this blog post, we'll explore some essential tips to safeguard your home during the winter months.

  1. Keep Your Heating Systems Well-Maintained –

Before the winter chill sets in, make sure your heating systems are in good working condition. Schedule professional inspections for your fireplace, furnace, and electric or gas heaters to identify and address any potential issues. Clean chimneys regularly to remove creosote buildup, a leading cause of chimney fires.

  1. Practice Safe Fireplace Habits –

If you're using a fireplace, follow these safety guidelines:

  • Use a sturdy fireplace screen to prevent sparks and embers from escaping.
  • Never leave a fire unattended and extinguish it before going to bed or leaving the house.
  • Dispose of ashes in a metal container, stored away from flammable materials.
  1. Careful Use of Space Heaters –

Space heaters can be effective, but they also pose fire risks. Follow these precautions:

  • Keep heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials.
  • Plug heaters directly into outlets, avoiding extension cords.
  • Turn off space heaters when leaving the room or going to sleep.
  1. Mindful Decorating –

Holiday decorations, including lights and Christmas trees, add festive cheer, but they require careful handling:

  • Choose flame-resistant decorations whenever possible.
  • Check holiday lights for frayed wires and replace damaged strands.
  • Water your Christmas tree regularly to prevent it from drying out and becoming a fire hazard.
  1. Be Cautious with Candles –

Candles can add a warm glow to your home, but they should be used with caution:

  • Keep candles in sturdy holders on a stable surface.
  • Never leave burning candles unattended and extinguish them before leaving the room.
  • Consider using flameless LED candles as a safer alternative.
  1. Install and Maintain Smoke Detectors and Fire Extinguishers –

Ensure your home is equipped with working smoke detectors on each floor, especially near bedrooms. Test them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year. Additionally, have fire extinguishers in key locations, such as the kitchen and near heating appliances.

  1. Create an Emergency Evacuation Plan –

Prepare for the unexpected by developing a family emergency evacuation plan. Discuss escape routes, designate meeting points, and ensure everyone knows how to respond in the event of a fire.

As you embrace the warmth and joy of the winter season, prioritize the safety of your home and loved ones. By implementing these fire prevention tips, you can create a cozy and secure environment that allows you to fully enjoy the holiday festivities without worry. Stay warm, stay safe, and have a happy and fire-free winter!

A Comprehensive Guide to Hurricane Preparedness and Recovery

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

As the calendar flips to November, we find ourselves in the last month of hurricane season. it's crucial to remember that while the peak of hurricane activity may have passed, the potential for storms and their aftermath still lingers. This blog post will provide you with valuable information on how to stay safe during this time and what to do if you experience a hurricane or flooding.

Pre-Storm:

One of the most critical aspects of hurricane preparedness is staying informed. Keep an eye on weather forecasts, and if a hurricane or severe storm is expected, monitor updates from reliable sources such as the National Hurricane Center, your local government, and news outlets. Make sure to have a battery-powered weather radio on hand in case of power outages.

Create an Emergency Kit

Having an emergency kit ready can make a world of difference during a hurricane. Include essential items like non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, personal hygiene products, and important documents. Don't forget to stock up on any necessary prescription medications and pet supplies if you have pets.

Prepare Your Home

Securing your home is vital to your safety during a hurricane. Reinforce windows and doors, trim tree branches that could become projectiles, and clear your gutters. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider investing in sandbags and flood barriers to protect your property.

Evacuation Plan

If you live in an evacuation zone, be prepared to leave when authorities issue evacuation orders. Have a plan in place for where you will go, and make arrangements for your pets if you have them. It's essential to leave early to avoid traffic congestion and ensure your safety.

Communication

Keep lines of communication open with your family and friends. Make sure everyone knows your whereabouts and how to reach you. Establish a central point of contact in case family members get separated during the evacuation.

Stay Safe During the Storm

During the hurricane, stay indoors and away from windows. If flooding occurs, move to higher ground, and never attempt to drive or walk through floodwaters. The power may go out, so use flashlights instead of candles to prevent fires. Charge your phones and have a portable charger ready to stay connected.

Post-Hurricane Actions:

After the hurricane passes, it's not time to let your guard down. Be cautious of downed power lines, flooding, and debris. Check on your loved ones, especially the elderly and those with special needs. If you evacuated, wait for authorities to declare it safe to return home.

Stay Informed

After the hurricane has passed, continue to stay informed about local conditions and updates. Keep your weather radio or other communication devices handy to receive updates on road closures, emergency services, and relief efforts. This information is invaluable as you assess the situation and plan your next steps.

Contact Loved Ones

Let your friends and family know that you're safe and sound. Keep your cell phone charged and use it to communicate with your loved ones. A simple text message can ease their worries and keep the lines of communication open.

Document the Damage

Take photographs and videos of the damage to your property, both inside and outside. This documentation can be vital when dealing with insurance claims and seeking assistance. Make sure to document any damage to vehicles as well.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and start the claims process. Be prepared to provide them with the documentation you collected. If you're unsure about your policy's coverage, ask your insurance agent for clarification.

Assess Your Home's Safety

If you're allowed back into your home, assess its safety and the extent of the damage. Secure any openings to prevent further damage, such as covering broken windows and tarping damaged roofs. Take steps to remove water and begin drying out your home to prevent mold growth by calling SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw at (253) 735-2919.

Seek Assistance

If you're in need of immediate assistance, contact local emergency services or relief organizations. They can provide you with information on shelters, food distribution, and medical services. Local government agencies may also provide resources for disaster recovery.

Reach Out to FEMA

In the aftermath of a major disaster, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) may offer assistance to affected individuals and communities. Contact FEMA to inquire about the available aid and how to apply for it if you or your family need it.

Begin Cleanup and Repairs

Once your safety is ensured, and you've taken the necessary steps to document and assess the damage, you can call SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw to begin cleaning up and essential repairs. Keep all receipts and records of expenses related to recovery efforts, as these may be important for insurance and assistance claims.

Experiencing a hurricane or flooding can be a challenging and emotional ordeal. However, by following these steps after the storm and calling SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw, you can begin the process of recovery and rebuilding. Remember to stay safe, document the damage, and seek assistance when needed. With the support of your community, the appropriate agencies, and SERVPRO, you can recover from the aftermath of a hurricane and look forward to better days ahead.

Rebuilding After the Blaze: The Crucial Role of SERVPRO in Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

10/25/2023 (Permalink)

Fire is a devastating force that can leave a trail of destruction in its wake, especially when it strikes commercial buildings. In the aftermath of such a disaster, the process of restoration and recovery is paramount. This blog post will explore the importance of hiring SERVPRO to remediate all damage caused by a fire to your commercial building.

Immediate Response and Expertise

One of the key advantages of choosing SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw is their ability to provide an immediate response. After a fire, time is of the essence, and their team of professionals is trained to act swiftly to minimize further damage. They bring with them a wealth of knowledge and expertise that is crucial for an effective response.

Assessment and Planning

The restoration process begins with a thorough assessment of the damage. SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw will evaluate the extent of the fire, smoke, and water damage to your commercial property. Following this assessment, a comprehensive restoration plan is developed, outlining the steps needed to bring your building back to its pre-fire condition.

Specialized Equipment and Techniques

SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw is equipped with the latest technology and specialized equipment designed for fire damage restoration. They use advanced techniques to clean, repair, and restore various materials and surfaces in your commercial building. This includes addressing the challenges posed by smoke and soot residue, as well as the water damage resulting from firefighting efforts.

Water Extraction and Drying

Water damage is often an overlooked consequence of battling commercial fires. SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw is well-versed in water extraction and drying techniques to prevent mold growth, structural damage, and other associated issues. Their proactive approach ensures that all water is efficiently removed from your property.

Smoke and Soot Removal

The lingering smell of smoke and soot can be pervasive and challenging to eliminate. SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw employs industry-best practices to thoroughly clean and deodorize your commercial building. This includes the use of air purifiers and ozone generators to improve indoor air quality.

Content Restoration

In addition to the building itself, the contents of your commercial property may also suffer damage. SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw provides content restoration services, helping salvage and restore valuable items and professional documentation that would otherwise be lost.

Faster Recovery, Less Business Disruption

By enlisting SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw's services, you expedite the recovery process. Minimizing downtime for your business is vital, and their expertise and efficient restoration methods help get you back on your feet sooner, reducing disruption to your operations.

Peace of Mind

Perhaps the most significant benefit of hiring SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw is the peace of mind it brings. Knowing that a team of professionals is managing the restoration process allows you to focus on other aspects of getting your business back to normal.

Fire damage to a commercial building can be a daunting experience, but with the expertise and support of SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw, you can confidently address and remediate all damage caused by a fire. Their prompt response, specialized equipment, and proven techniques make them an invaluable partner in the restoration process. Don't underestimate the importance of professional fire damage restoration—your commercial property and business's future depend on it.

Auburn / Enumclaw Businesses: We Specialize in Water and Flood Damage, Cleanup and Restoration

10/13/2023 (Permalink)

Service Technicians on a job site. Service Technicians on a commercial water damage job site.

Floods are a significant threat to commercial businesses, often resulting in extensive water damage, financial losses, and even long-term issues like mold growth. In this blog post, we'll delve into the critical aspects of flood prevention and what to do if your commercial business experiences a flood. When disaster strikes, turn to SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw at 1-800-SERVPRO, the leading experts in commercial remediation and restoration.

Flood Prevention: Safeguarding Your Business

Preventing a flood is the most effective strategy to protect your commercial property. Here are some essential flood prevention measures:

1. Risk Assessment: Identify flood-prone areas in and around your business premises. Analyze local flood maps to understand your property's vulnerability.

2. Elevate Electrical Systems: Elevate critical electrical systems, such as fuse boxes and circuit breakers, to prevent water damage in the event of a flood.

3. Sump Pumps and Flood Barriers: Install sump pumps in basements or vulnerable areas to drain excess water quickly. Additionally, consider using flood barriers to keep water out.

4. Secure Utilities: Elevate heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units, as well as other essential utilities, to minimize potential damage during a flood.

5. Proper Drainage: Keep gutters, downspouts, and drains clear of debris, ensuring that water is directed away from your property.

6. Emergency Ready Plan: Contact SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw to create an emergency ready plan and ensure all employees are aware of it. This plan should include evacuation procedures and contact information for emergency services.

What to Do If Your Business Experiences a Flood

Despite taking preventive measures, floods can still occur. It's crucial to act swiftly to minimize damage and get your business back on track. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Safety First: Prioritize the safety of employees and visitors. Evacuate the premises if necessary.

2. Stop the Source: If the flooding is caused by a burst pipe or malfunctioning appliance, shut off the water source if it's safe to do so.

3. Contact SERVPRO: In the event of a flood, time is of the essence. Call SERVPRO at 1-800-SERVPRO for immediate assistance. They are the leading experts in commercial remediation, specializing in comprehensive restoration services for businesses.

4. Document Damage: Take photographs and detailed notes of the damage for insurance claims and records.

5. Initial Cleanup: While waiting for professional assistance, begin the cleanup process by removing standing water and salvaging critical business assets and documents.

The Ongoing Threat: Mold Remediation

In the aftermath of a flood, mold can quickly become a serious concern. Mold growth poses health risks and can further damage your property. SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw, with its extensive experience in mold remediation, will ensure your business is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to prevent the growth and spread of mold.

Flood prevention is the first line of defense for safeguarding your commercial business against the devastating impact of floods. Nevertheless, if your business experiences a flood, acting promptly, ensuring safety, and engaging professionals like SERVPRO is essential. Their expertise in water damage restoration, flood remediation, and mold remediation will help you recover and restore your business "Like it never even happened". When disaster strikes, call SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw at 1-800-SERVPRO, the leading experts in commercial remediation and restoration. Don't wait; protect your business, your assets, and the safety of your employees today.

About SERVPRO of Auburn / Enumclaw

Our team is proud to be a part of these amazing communities and can be there for you whether you live in one of the above locations or anywhere in the country. We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your life and home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial properties after fire, smoke or water damage and can mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. With a nationwide system of qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO Team Friermuth. If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call today!

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6 Essential Tips for Securing Your Building After a Fire

4/5/2023 (Permalink)

apartment fire Secure a building after a fire to help prevent secondary damages.

A fire can be a devastating event for any building, and its aftermath can be just as challenging. If your building has suffered from a fire, you'll need to take steps to keep it secure and safe, both for yourself and for any visitors or tenants. Here are some tips on how to keep your building secure after a fire.

Inspect the Building

After a fire, it's important to inspect the building for damage. If you're not sure how to do this, consider hiring a professional inspector to assess the damage. Look for any structural damage, such as cracks or bulges in the walls, floors, or ceilings, and make sure all doors and windows are secure. Don't forget to check the roof, as it can be a common place for damage to occur.

Secure the Building

If there are any holes or openings in the building's exterior, such as broken windows or doors, you'll need to secure them. This can be done by covering the openings with plywood or boarding them up. Make sure that all entrances and exits are secure, and consider installing security cameras to monitor the building.

Check the Utilities

Before anyone can enter the building, it's essential to ensure that all utilities, such as gas, water, and electricity, are turned off. If any of these utilities were damaged in the fire, don't attempt to turn them back on yourself. Instead, contact a licensed professional to inspect and repair them.

Remove Debris

The aftermath of a fire can leave a lot of debris, such as burnt furniture, building materials, and personal belongings. Not only is this debris unsightly, but it can also be a safety hazard. Hire a professional cleaning company to remove any debris and thoroughly clean the building.

Keep the Building Safe

Even after the building has been secured, it's important to keep it safe. If the building is unoccupied, consider installing an alarm system that can alert you if someone tries to enter. If there are any hazards, such as loose wiring or damaged gas lines, have them repaired immediately.

Be Prepared for Future Emergencies

Finally, it's essential to be prepared for future emergencies. Make sure that you have an emergency plan in place and that all tenants or visitors are aware of it. Consider installing smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and other safety equipment throughout the building.

In conclusion, keeping your building secure after a fire requires a combination of diligence and preparation. By taking the necessary steps to inspect, secure, and clean the building, as well as being prepared for future emergencies, you can help to ensure the safety and security of your building and its occupants.

Water leaks are the most common business losses

3/8/2023 (Permalink)

supply line break When water damage shuts down your business, give SERVPRO a call for your water emergency.

Water leaks can be one of the most damaging events to hit a small business. Not only do they cause damage in the short term, but they also affect productivity and have the potential to increase your insurance premiums. In fact, water is the most common cause of small business insurance claims and has been for decades.

The most common business loss is water.

Water leaks are the most common business loss. They can be caused by a variety of things, including broken pipes and flooding. The second-most common cause of water damage is from roof leaks.

The best way to prevent these losses is through regular maintenance and inspections by a professional plumber or contractor who knows how to identify potential problems before they become serious issues.

Water leaks are the leading cause of small business insurance claims.

Water damage is the most common business loss, but it's also one of the hardest to prevent. Leaking pipes are the leading cause of water damage and can be hard to find if you don't know what you're looking for. If you have a leaky pipe, there are ways to find it before it causes major problems in your building. Look for wet spots on floors or walls. These could indicate that there's a leak somewhere nearby.

Check any faucets on sinks or bathtubs periodically, if they're dripping slowly instead of flowing freely, this could mean that there's an issue with your plumbing system that needs attention soon!

Water damage costs small businesses.

Water damage is one of the most common business losses, and it can cause significant damage to your business. Water can spread quickly through your building and cause thousands of dollars in damage before you even realize what's going on.

Keep track of all leaks and make sure they're repaired quickly. This will help to prevent water damage from spreading further into the building or causing further damage to equipment or furniture within the area where it's occurring.

Keep up with maintenance checks so that any problems that do arise are fixed before they become bigger issues (such as burst pipes).

A leaking pipe.

One of the most common business losses is water leaks. A leaking pipe can cost you more in lost productivity than the cost of fixing it. The cost of lost productivity can be hard to quantify, but it's often significant and sometimes greater than the cost of fixing a leak itself.

SERVPRO of Auburn/Enumclaw is available 24/7 for your restoration emergency in your home or business. Our team is trained in water restoration and can get your business back up and running as quickly as possible.

Washing Machine Tips to preventing a Water Loss

1/12/2023 (Permalink)

washing machine Check your washing machine for leaks

If you're a homeowner, your washing machine is an essential appliance that you likely use on a daily basis. Unfortunately, if you don't take care of it properly, it can cause major damage to your home. Whether that means flooding your house due to faulty drain hoses, or mildew build up inside due to not cleaning up after use. This guide will help keep washing machine disasters from happening at home.

Faulty Drain Hoses

Check the drain hose for kinks, obstructions and cracks.  If the drain has the least bit of wear and tear it is safe to replace to prevent any damages from happening in the near future.

Replace the drain hose if you find any of these problems immediately.

Don't overload your Washer

  • Don't overload your washer. The more laundry you try to cram into the washing machine, the more likely it is that something will get caught and tear up your clothes or cause damage to other items in your laundry room.
  • Don't put objects in the washer that are too heavy. This includes stuffed animals, pillows and blankets, large towels and sheets (which can weigh as much as 10 pounds), sheets with metal hooks attached (like hospital-grade bedding) and anything else that might damage your machine if it gets stuck inside while it’s running.
  • Don't put clothes in the washer that are too large or small to fit through the opening of your washer door when closed; otherwise they may get tangled up before reaching their designated cycle at all! Also avoid putting any clothing with sharp edges or corners into a top-loading machine since these items could puncture holes in inner drum walls over time. This can eventually lead them to leaking out onto floors below once washed regularly under hot temperatures conditions like those found inside modern home spaces here today.

Check the seal to your washer door.

  • Check the seal to your washer door. Keep the seal clear of debris and water build up can prevent the seal from breaking leaving your washer out of order.
  • If you find a leak, replace the seal immediately to prevent a water loss.
  • The brand and model of your washing machine will determine how to correctly install a new seal.

You should be able to make your washing machine last for many years if you take care of it. You can avoid many issues by making sure that the drain hose is not kinked, overloaded or damaged. You should also check the seal around the door to ensure that it's working properly so no water can leak out from there either.

How to Determine Kitchen Water Damage

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

Kitchen faucet leaking Listen for drips and leaks

How to Determine Kitchen Water Damage

You wake up in the morning to find your kitchen counters covered with water and you think, "Oh no! Something's wrong with the plumbing.” Then you realize that a pipe under the sink has burst, but this can happen all the time! Here are some ways to tell whether your kitchen has actually been damaged by water:

Wet Cabinets

Look for wet spots on the wall, baseboards and flooring. Check the ceiling for stains (check under kitchen cabinets too). Look inside the sink and dishwasher. If you can't find any obvious signs of water damage, inspect your refrigerator by removing its kick plate or looking underneath it with a flashlight.

Leaking Appliances

Leaky appliances are an obvious sign of water damage. If your dishwasher or refrigerator were to start leaking, a mess would quickly develop around the appliance and could cause extensive damage. If you're noticing a leak from any of these appliances, stop using them immediately and call for professional assistance. The same goes for any other type of leaking appliance—including hot water heaters, faucets, and more—that may be leaking into your kitchen.

Drips and Leaks

  • Listen for drips and leaks. The first step to determining if you have water damage is listening for the source of the leak. If you hear dripping or running water in your kitchen, investigate where it is coming from and see if there is any type of leak that can be fixed with a quick repair job.
  • Look for drips and leaks. If you cannot find the source of a drip or leak by listening for it, then move on to looking at your kitchen cabinets and drawers for signs of damage caused by water intrusion such as cracks or holes in woodwork; peeling paint; warped wood doors; warped cabinet panels; bubbling paint cans used on countertops under sinks (this means there was standing water at one time); discoloration on surfaces near plumbing fixtures like faucets or dishwashers (again indicating standing water).
  • Feel for drips and leaks. Sometimes it isn't easy to detect a drip or leak just by looking around because they may not be visible from every angle so take advantage of all senses including touch! Get down low where possible floors creak beneath my feet whenever I walk across them because my weight shifts causing vibrations that are magnified upon hitting those boards hard enough that they make noise when struck against something else like another board nearby making it vibrate until we reach equilibrium again.

Signs Your Kitchen Has Water Damage

You probably don't realize that your kitchen has water damage until it's too late. It's not uncommon for leaks to appear in the ceiling or walls, causing mold growth and structural damage. If you notice any of these signs, it's time to call in an expert:

  • Leaks or stains on the ceiling
  • A damp smell in the air (or a musty smell)
  • Mold growing on walls or ceilings

If you’re experiencing water damage in your kitchen, it’s important to know what to look for. If you see any of these signs, contact a professional right away to assess the situation and determine whether or not there is damage.

Preparing for a Fire with Pets and Kids

12/1/2022 (Permalink)

a girl and a white puppy If you do experience a fire in your Auburn home, give SERVPRO of Auburn/Enumclaw a call.

Preparing for a Fire with Pets and Kids

When you've got children and pets, fire safety can be especially challenging. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to help keep your family safe. We'll explore how to prepare for a fire when you have kids and pets, including how to create a plan for everyone in your family -- especially small children and pets -- as well as how to make sure everyone knows how to use emergency equipment like fire extinguishers and fire ladders. Once we're done here, we'll dive into some specific tips on making sure your pet is safe in case of an emergency as well!

Create a Fire Safety Plan

As a parent, you want to keep your kids safe from all the things that can hurt them. But when a fire breaks out and you have to get out quickly, it can be hard to think rationally about what to do next. A fire plan will help everyone in your family understand how to react if there's ever an emergency so that if something does happen, everyone knows what their role is in getting out safely. When it comes to pets, it's also important for everyone in the family -- including children -- to know which doors or windows are accessible for animals as well as people, and where they can go once outside.

Know How To Use Emergency Equipment

Fire extinguishers are a great way to get the flames out quickly. But if you’re not sure how to use one, you may need some training.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Read the instructions that come with your fire extinguisher before you use it for the first time and make sure you understand them completely
  • Keep your eyes on what you're doing at all times
  • Have someone else nearby who knows what they're doing when using an extinguisher as well

Know Two Ways Out of Each Room

If you are unable to exit your home, do not go back in. Smoke and heat can kill within minutes. This is why it is important that everyone in the house knows at least two ways out of each room and where they go when they leave the house (e.g., a neighbor’s or friend’s house). If you have pets, make sure they know how to get out too!

You can also use an escape ladder as a last resort if all other options are unavailable.

Make a Plan for Pets

If you have pets, make a plan for them as well. Locate all their favorite hiding spots and make sure that those are the places where you can reach them in an emergency. Make sure you have a way to get them out if they get stuck. Pets can be extremely resourceful when it comes to escaping from danger, but they might need your help getting over a fence or finding an alternate escape route if their usual one is blocked by debris.

Prepare an Emergency Kit

Whether it's a fire in your home or elsewhere, you need to be prepared before you leave. Pack a bag with the following items:

  • Flashlights
  • First aid kit
  • Important documents (like birth certificates and insurance policies) that can be grabbed on the way out of your home.

If you have pets or kids, include an extra set of keys for them as well so they don't get locked inside. You'll also want to include a whistle so that everyone can find each other easily once outside

Use an Escape Ladder

A fire escape ladder is a tool to help people escape a burning building. It is not a substitute for having an escape plan in place, which should include knowing two ways out of every room and being able to identify the closest exit in any emergency situation. The ladder should be placed in the bedroom window closest to the ground, securely fastened to the wall, and easily accessible from inside without obstructing access by other occupants who might need it as well.

Teach Kids Fire Safety

As you're teaching your kids about fire safety, it's important to explain that smoke rises. This means that if there's a fire in the kitchen, they should not go through a door or window to escape. Instead, they should position themselves as low to the ground as possible and crawl under the smoke until they find an exit or get help from an adult.

You can also teach them that smoke is often trapped around vents, windows and doors—because it gets sucked into these areas by air currents—so keeping low is even more important when escaping from these areas of your home.

We know that preparing for a fire can be overwhelming, but it's important to remember that you are not alone. You have your friends and family who can help you prepare for the worst and make sure everyone is safe in case of an emergency. If you do experience a fire in your Auburn home, give SERVPRO of Auburn/Enumclaw a call to restore it back to its preloss condition!