Smart Phone Battery Explodes and Starts a Fire in Beckley Home?

4/16/2024 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team has been restoring fire damage in Raleigh County for many years. Although a rare occurrence, cell phone batteries can explode and start fires. Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in smartphones and other portable electronic devices, can sometimes fail due to manufacturing defects, physical damage, or improper use (such as using unauthorized chargers or exposing the battery to extreme temperatures).

When a lithium-ion battery fails, it can release flammable electrolytes and generate heat, leading to pressure buildup inside the casing. In extreme cases, this pressure can cause the battery to rupture or explode, potentially resulting in a fire.

To mitigate the risk of battery-related incidents, smartphone manufacturers implement various safety measures, including rigorous testing of batteries and charging systems and incorporating features like temperature sensors and circuitry to prevent overcharging or overheating.

However, users can also help reduce the risk by following best practices such as using genuine accessories, avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures, and not physically damaging the device. For instance, a smartphone battery appears swollen, injured, or behaving abnormally (such as overheating during charging). In that case, stopping using the device and seeking assistance from the manufacturer or a qualified technician is essential.

Call Us Today!

When a lithium battery explodes in your Beckley home or commercial business and you need fire damage restoration services, our local Beckley team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do While Waiting for Professional Help to Arrive When I Have a Water Damage Emergency in Beckley?

4/9/2024 (Permalink)

We are leaders in water damage restoration services in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team responds to water damage emergencies 24 hours a day. Broken pipes can cause significant water damage in a short time, so here are some tips for things you can do to prevent damage while waiting for professional help to arrive:

Turn Off the Water Supply: If you haven't already done so, locate the main water shut-off valve and turn off the water supply to prevent further flooding.

Ensure Safety: Prioritize safety for yourself and others. If there's standing water, be cautious of electrical hazards.

Remove Standing Water: Use a wet/dry vacuum, mop, or towels to remove as much standing water as possible.

Move Valuables to Higher Ground: If you have items at risk of damage from the water, move them to higher ground or a dry area if it's safe.

Open Windows and Doors: Increase ventilation by opening windows and doors to help speed up drying.

Protect Furniture: Use aluminum foil or blocks to elevate furniture legs above the water line to prevent further damage. Wipe down wooden furniture to prevent swelling and warping.

Document the Damage: Take photos or videos for insurance purposes. Before you begin cleanup efforts, document the extent of the water damage and any affected belongings.

Call Us Today!

When a broken pipe causes water damage in your Beckley home or commercial business in Beckley, our local Beckley team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do While Waiting for Professional Help to Arrive if I Discover a Mold Outbreak in My Beckley Home?

4/2/2024 (Permalink)

We are leaders in mold remediation services in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team has the training, equipment, and experience to restore mold outbreaks in homes and commercial buildings in Beckley. Our technicians are certified in applied microbial remediation by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the nonprofit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industries. Here are some mold damage emergency tips for things you can and should not do while waiting for professional help to arrive:

Important Facts

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48 to 72 hours.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system and fans.
• Contact our Beckley offices for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

Call Us Today!

Mold outbreaks are often a symptom of water damage. When you discover mold growing in your Beckley home or commercial business, our local Beckley team is Here to Help. ® We will locate the source of the excess water and make repairs to minimize the chances of the mold returning once the remediation process is complete. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Shady Spring Home Completely Restored After Sustaining Fire Damage?

3/26/2024 (Permalink)

We are licensed and certified to perform all phases of fire damage restoration services in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team is trained and certified to perform all phases of fire restoration in Shady Spring. We follow this comprehensive, seven-step process:

Fire Damage Restoration Process

Step 1: Emergency Contact

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

Step 2: Inspection and Assessment

We conduct a thorough inspection and provide an assessment of the damage.

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

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

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

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

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot

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

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

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

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs or major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Shady Spring has fire damage, our local Beckley team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Spring Rainstorm Floods Low Lying Areas of Beckley?

3/19/2024 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage in Raleigh County 24 hours a day.

Our local Beckley team is highly trained and certified to restore storm damage quickly and efficiently. Our region experiences a variety of storms during the spring months, typically from March through May. Here are some examples of spring weather we can experience:

Thunderstorms:  Spring often sees the development of thunderstorms. These storms can bring heavy rainfall, lightning, strong winds, and sometimes hail. While most are not severe, some thunderstorms can become severe and produce damaging winds or even tornadoes.

Rainstorms: Spring showers are common, bringing much-needed moisture to the region. These rainstorms can be gentle and beneficial for plant growth or occasionally turn into heavy downpours, leading to localized flooding.

Snowstorms: Early spring may still see occasional snowfall, particularly in higher elevations. These late-season snowstorms can disrupt travel and impact daily routines.

Windstorms: Strong winds are another characteristic of spring weather. They can accompany thunderstorms or occur independently, potentially causing power outages and tree damage.

Cold Snaps: Spring is a transitional season, and Beckley can experience sudden drops in temperature, leading to frost or freezes that can damage crops and plants.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business has flooding damage from heavy rain, our local Beckley team is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your storm damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Frozen Pipes Damage Walls and Insulation in Beckley Home?

3/12/2024 (Permalink)

We restore frozen pipe water damage in Raleigh County 24 hours a day.

Our local Beckley team is trained and certified to restore water damage from frozen pipes quickly and efficiently. When a frozen pipe bursts inside a wall, the water will penetrate any porous surface in its path, including insulation, drywall, and wooden framing.

Frozen pipes can cause significant structural damage inside a wall where a pipe leaks due to a destructive combination of expanding ice and water pressure. When water in a pipe freezes, it expands, creating immense pressure within the pipe. This pressure can lead to pipe bursts or even small cracks.

As the ice within the pipe thaws or water pressure increases, water starts to flow through these openings. If a pipe is inside a wall, this leaking water can go unnoticed for an extended period. Over time, water's continuous drip or flow can saturate the surrounding materials, including insulation, drywall, and wooden studs.

The moisture weakens the structural integrity of these components, causing them to become waterlogged and potentially leading to rot or mold growth. Additionally, the continuous presence of water can compromise the wall's strength, potentially causing it to warp, swell, or even collapse in severe cases. This hidden damage can result in costly repairs and may necessitate extensive reconstruction work to restore the wall's structural integrity and prevent further issues.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Beckley has water damage from frozen pipes, our local Beckley team is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your frozen pipe damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration Services in Sophia?

3/5/2024 (Permalink)

We restore commercial fire damage in Raleigh County 24 hours a day.

Our local Beckley team is a trusted leader in commercial fire damage restoration services. Sophia businesses can rely on us to perform every phase of restoration, from the initial cleanup to the final phases of rebuilding. We understand the importance of getting your business operational again quickly after suffering a fire loss, as almost half of commercial businesses damaged by fire never reopen.

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

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Fire and Water Restoration Industry with over 2200 Franchises
• Highly Trained Fire and Water Damage Restoration Specialists

Highly trained and certified

We have the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies. Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, motel, or office building, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

• Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Sophia has fire, our local Beckley team is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Beckley Residents Brace for Another Winter Storm?

2/27/2024 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team is ready to respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Winters bring a variety of storms to our region:

Snowfall: Beckley experiences significant snowfall during the winter months, often with heavy accumulations. Snowstorms can disrupt transportation, close schools, and pose safety hazards.

Ice Storms: Freezing rain can coat surfaces with ice, leading to power outages, tree damage, and treacherous road conditions. Ice accumulation on power lines and trees can cause them to snap under the weight.

Sleet: Sleet occurs when raindrops freeze before reaching the ground, creating a layer of ice pellets on roads and sidewalks. This can make travel hazardous and increase the risk of accidents.

Blizzards: Occasionally, we face blizzard conditions characterized by heavy snowfall, strong winds, and low visibility. Blizzards can lead to whiteout conditions and pose a severe threat to travelers.

Prepare for these winter storms by stockpiling salt and sand, maintaining snowplows, and ensuring that you have access to emergency services. Staying informed about weather forecasts and heeding advisories is crucial to staying safe during the winter.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business has a storm damage emergency, our local Beckley team is Here to Help. ® us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Top Choice for Commercial Mold Remediation Services in Beckley?

2/20/2024 (Permalink)

We are leaders in mold damage restoration services in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team has been remediating mold damage in commercial businesses since 1999. Although every mold outbreak problem is unique, we follow the same remediation process for every customer:

1. Emergency Contact

We’ll ask questions to determine the necessary equipment and resources to bring.

2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

We follow local and state laws regarding inspection and documentation based on your unique situation.

3. Mold Containment

We may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to prevent mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

4. Air Filtration

We utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while mold remediation is in process.

5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

We use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

6. Cleaning Contents

We clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. We’re also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

7. Restoration

Drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may have been removed during the remediation process. Restoration may involve minor repairs or the reconstruction of various areas of a business. 

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Beckley has a mold outbreak, our local Beckley team is Here to Help. ® us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Faulty Extension Cord Starts Fire in Beckley Garage?

2/13/2024 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team is trained and certified to restore fire damage in homes and commercial properties, from the initial cleanup phase to performing rebuilding services required to bring a property back to pre-fire conditions. A faulty extension cord can pose a significant fire hazard for several reasons:

Frayed or Damaged Insulation: Over time, extension cords can suffer wear and tear, leading to frayed or damaged insulation. They can short-circuit, leading to overheating and potentially igniting nearby flammable materials.

Overloading: Plugging too many devices or appliances into a single extension cord can overload it. The excessive electrical load generates heat, which can melt the insulation, damage the cord, or even ignite nearby objects.

Poorly Made or Old Cords: Low-quality or old extension cords may have substandard wiring or connections that are more prone to failure, overheating, and fire.

Improper Use: Extension cords should not be used as permanent wiring or be hidden under rugs, carpets, or furniture. Cords can overheat when trapped or covered, increasing the risk of a fire.

Pinched or Crushed Cords: When extension cords are pinched between heavy objects or crushed under furniture or doors, it can damage the cord, causing exposed wires and potential fire hazards.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Beckley has fire damage, our local Beckley team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.