Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts

The Critical Role of Smoke Alarms in Every Bedroom in Sophia?

10/22/2024 (Permalink)

We are trained and certified to restore fire damage in Raleigh County.

Our local team in Beckley has been restoring fire damage in Sophia since 1999. This year, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) fire awareness campaign focuses on smoke alarm safety. The theme for Fire Prevention Week 2024, "Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!" highlights the importance of installing smoke alarms in every bedroom. According to the NFPA, installing smoke alarms in each sleeping area significantly increases the chances of survival during a fire. Shockingly, 38% of home fire deaths occur in homes without smoke alarms, and another 24% occur in homes with smoke alarms that don't sound.

To ensure your family's safety, install smoke alarms in every bedroom and outside each sleeping area, like hallways. The NFPA also recommends interconnected alarms so that when one sounds, all alarms in the home are triggered. With this setup, even deep sleepers can be alerted to danger.

Smoke alarms can reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by nearly half, but they are only effective if they function properly. Test alarms monthly, clean them annually, and replace batteries every year. This Fire Prevention Week, protect your loved ones by ensuring your home is equipped with properly installed and maintained smoke alarms in every bedroom.

Call Us Today!

When home or commercial business in Sophia has fire damage, our local Beckley team will restore the damage "Like it never even happened." Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Microwave Misuse: Aluminum Foil Causes Fire Damage in Sophia?

9/24/2024 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24/7 in Raleigh County.

A microwave oven is convenient, but users must follow safety guidelines to avoid accidents. One of people's most dangerous mistakes is placing aluminum foil inside the microwave. Aluminum foil can cause a fire in a microwave because it reflects the microwave radiation, creating intense heat that can ignite the foil and surrounding materials.

When aluminum foil is placed in the microwave, sparks can fly, leading to a fire that damages the appliance and poses a severe risk to your home. To prevent such hazards, always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for your microwave. Never use metal objects or aluminum foil; ensure any containers are microwave-safe.

If a fire does occur, turn off the microwave immediately, but do not open the door until the flames have subsided. Opening the door can allow more oxygen in, potentially worsening the fire. Contact emergency services if the fire is not easily controlled.

Educate everyone in your household about microwave safety to prevent accidents. SERVPRO of Beckley offers a seamless restoration experience for Sophia residents. We perform every job phase, from the initial cleanup to providing rebuilding services when required to complete the fire damage restoration.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Sophia has fire damage, our local Beckley team will restore the damage "Like it never even happened." Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Streamlined Fire Damage Restoration Services with a Single Contractor in Beckley?

9/3/2024 (Permalink)

A house with fire damage is being restored to pre-fire condition.

We clean, restore, and rebuild fire-damaged homes in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team has been restoring fire-damage in Raleigh County since 1999. To meet the demand for rebuilding services, we added experienced and skilled construction laborers to provide reconstruction services (General Contractor License: WV056476).

Choosing one restoration company to handle all phases of fire damage restoration offers significant benefits. With a general contractor's license, such a company can seamlessly transition from initial cleanup to final rebuild, ensuring your property is restored to its pre-damage condition efficiently.

This continuity eliminates the need to coordinate multiple contractors, saving you valuable time and reducing the overall cost. The company maintains consistent quality by handling everything from debris removal to structural repairs and ensures every detail is noticed.

Additionally, having a single point of contact simplifies communication. It provides peace of mind, as you can trust that a qualified and experienced team manages your restoration from start to finish. This integrated approach expedites the restoration process and enhances the overall customer experience by delivering a cohesive and reliable service.

Call Us!

When your home or commercial business in Beckley is damaged by fire and requires fire damage restoration and rebuilding services, our local Beckley team will restore the damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Oily Rags Ignite and Start Fire in Beckley Garage?

8/20/2024 (Permalink)

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

Our local Beckley team is a leader in fire damage cleanup, restoration, and rebuilding services. One of the lesser-known but highly dangerous causes of residential fires is the improper disposal of oily rags. Many DIY enthusiasts or homeowners working with oils, stains, or varnishes may not be aware that these materials can spontaneously combust if not handled appropriately. Oily rags can generate heat as they dry, especially when bunched up or left in enclosed spaces like garages or basements. This heat buildup can ignite the rag and surrounding materials, leading to a rapid and devastating fire.

Oily rags should be stored in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid, filled with a solution of water and detergent to break down the oils, and kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and other heat sources.

To prevent fire, it's crucial to dispose of oily rags safely. This involves laying them flat to dry outdoors in a safe area away from structures, preferably on non-combustible surfaces like concrete. Once dry, rags should be stored appropriately or disposed of according to local regulations. By taking these precautions, you can reduce the fire risk and protect your home and loved ones from disaster.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Beckley has fire damage, our local Beckley team will restore the damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Soot and Smoke Damage Cleanup and Removal Services in Sophia?

7/23/2024 (Permalink)

Soot from a fire covers a wall in a home.

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

Since 1999, our local Beckley team has been restoring fire damage for Sophia residents and businesses. Fires leave behind a whole lot of damage, including soot, smoke residue and odor, and water damage left from the firefighting efforts.

Our technicians are trained and certified to clean and restore fire-damaged properties. In 2017, we added reconstruction services so we can provide seamless service when required to bring a fire-damaged property back to pre-fire condition. No matter how extensive the damage, we are Here to Help. ®

Professional removal of soot and smoke damage is essential to avoid further damage to property. Our technicians use specialized equipment and techniques to thoroughly clean and restore affected areas, ensuring safety and preserving the integrity of your home.

Professional removal of smoke odor is crucial because it penetrates deeply into fabrics, walls, and other materials. We use advanced equipment and techniques to eliminate odors at the source, ensuring a thorough and lasting solution.

24/7 Emergency Fire Service

We Are a Top Choice for Cleanup and Restoration
Residential and Commercial Fire Cleanup
Highly-Trained Fire Restoration Technicians
Easier Insurance Claim Process
Faster to any size disaster™

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Sophia sustains fire damage, our local Beckley team will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Rebuilding Services for Fire-Damaged Properties in Beckley?

5/14/2024 (Permalink)

We clean and restore fire-damaged properties in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team is highly qualified to restore and rebuild homes and commercial properties damaged by fire. We are a top choice for fire damage restoration services because SERVPRO® of Beckley has a division dedicated to rebuilding properties damaged by fire, water, storms, and mold. We also have a General Contractor License WV056476 and can supervise all work required to bring a home or business back to full functionality.

This gives our customers peace of mind knowing they have one responsive and qualified company managing the entire restoration project from the initial cleanup phase through to the final phases of rebuilding.

Building and Reconstruction Services

Board Up
Carpet Repair and Installation
Document Drying
Dry Cleaning
Drywall Installation
Drywall Removal
Electrical
Electronics Restoration
Fine Art Restoration
Furniture Restoration
General Contracting
Hardwood Floor Repair
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Services (HVAC)
Linoleum Floor Repair
Marble Floor Repair
Move Out
Painting
Plumbing
Portable Power
Roof Tarp
Roofing Services
Scalable Resources
Temporary Fencing
Temporary Warehouse Space
Tile Floor Repair
Tree Removal

We have extensive experience working on all kinds of commercial buildings, including:

Small Office Buildings
Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
Apartment Buildings
Restaurants
Hotel/Motels
Small Retail Stores
Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
High-Rise Residential
Manufacturing and Industrial
Government/Military

Call Us Today!

When your Beckley home or commercial business requires rebuilding after a fire event, our local Beckley team is Here to Help®. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

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.

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.

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.

Fireplace Fire in Glen Daniel Home?

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

We clean and restore fire, smoke, and soot damage in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team has been restoring fire damage in Glen Daniel and Raleigh County since 1999. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths in the United States. Here are some heating fire facts from the NFPA:

Based on 2016-2020 annual averages:

Space heaters were the type of heating equipment responsible for the largest shares of losses in home heating equipment fires, accounting for one-third of the fires, but nearly nine out of ten deaths and four out of five of the injuries in home fires caused by heating equipment.
Fires originating in a kitchen or cooking area accounted for the largest share of home heating fires (17%).
While the larger (non-confined) fires involving fireplaces or chimneys were involved in fewer than one in ten fires caused by heating equipment (7%), they caused just over one-fifth of the direct property damage (22%).
Nearly half of the heating equipment fires (46%) occurred in the three-month period from December through February.

Call Us!

When your Glen Daniel home or business has fire damage and you need fire damage restoration services, 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® franchise is independently owned and operated.

Grease Fire Damages Kitchen in Beckley Home?

10/10/2023 (Permalink)

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

Our local Beckley team has been restoring fire damage in Beckly since 1999. Our technicians are highly trained and certified to perform all phases of a fire damage restoration – from the initial cleanup phase through to the final phases of rebuilding in the restoration process.

October is National Fire Awareness Month and this year the theme is cooking safety. Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association to prevent a grease fire from getting out of control:

If you have a small (grease) cooking fire and decide to fight the fire...

On the stovetop, smother the flames by sliding a lid over the pan and turning off the burner. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

If you have any doubt about fighting a small fire…

Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number from outside the home.

Call Us Today!

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

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Makes Up a Top Choice for Fire Damage Restoration Services in Beckley?

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

We are trained and certified to restore fire damage in Raleigh County.

For many years now, our local Beckley team has been helping people restore their fire-damaged homes and commercial properties. We are one of the very few companies in Raleigh County that can fulfill every phase of the restoration, from the initial cleanup phase to the final steps of rebuilding required to bring a property back to pre-fire conditions.

24-Hour Emergency Service
Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
Highly Trained Technicians
A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
Locally Owned and Operated
Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

We pretest every surface and item before cleaning to ensure we are using the most effective method and utilize several cleaning methods, including:

Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean before wet cleaning
Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues
Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning
Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned
Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned
Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product

Call Us Today!

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

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

One Company Delivers Fire Damage Cleanup and Rebuilding Services in Beckley?

8/7/2023 (Permalink)

We are a one-stop shop coordinating reconstruction projects in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team has been restoring fire damage for Raleigh County residents and businesses since 1999. In 2017, we expanded our services to include experienced and skilled construction team members, allowing us to fulfill all phases of a restoration project.

After the City of Beckley Fire Department first responders extinguish the fire and leave the scene, you are left with smoke, soot, debris, and water damage left from the firefighting efforts. Our team is highly trained to perform every step of the restoration, from the initial mitigation through to the final steps of rebuilding required to complete the job and restore your property to pre-fire conditions.

Residential Fire Damage Restoration Process

Board-up and roof tarping service
Assessment of fire and smoke damage
Water extraction and drying
Removal of soot and smoke odor
Clean all restorable items
Provide all rebuilding services

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Beckley has fire damage that requires rebuilding services, our team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® We are uniquely positioned to provide all aspects of the fire damage restoration, giving our customers peace of mind knowing they have one qualified company managing the entire restoration from start to finish. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Candles Cause Fire Damage in Mullens Home?

8/1/2023 (Permalink)

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

Our local Beckley team has been restoring fire damage for Mullens residents and businesses since 1999. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), candle fires are one of the leading causes of home fires in the United States. More than one-third of home candle fires start in a bedroom, and three out of every five candle fires start when things that can burn are too close to the candle.

Here are some candle safety tips from the NFPA:

Use candle holders that are sturdy and won’t tip over easily
Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface
Light candles carefully
Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame
Don’t burn a candle all the way down. Put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container.
Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home
Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles.
Keep candles at least 1 foot away from anything that can burn

Call Us Today!

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

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Fire Safety Tips for Beckley Babysitters?

6/20/2023 (Permalink)

A babysitter plays counting games with a child.

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

Our local Beckley team restores fire damage in Raleigh County every year. If you use babysitters, it is a good idea to show the babysitter your home escape plan and make sure they understand it. Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association for babysitting fire safety:

There are two ways out of every room
Where the outdoor meeting place is located
The fire department or emergency phone number
The address of the home
How to unlock all doors and windows
Keeps your child at least three feet away from the stove
Keeps your child at least three feet away from the microwave oven
Never leave the room while cooking
Keeps anything that can catch fire away from the stovetop
Keeps pets off surfaces and countertops
Get out of the home quickly with your child to safety when the smoke alarm sounds
Use the second way out if smoke is in the way
Get low and go under the smoke to the exit if an escape must be made through smoke
Store matches and lighters out of your child’s reach
Your babysitter should not use candles
Make sure your babysitter keeps a three-foot “kid-free zone” around space heaters

Call Us Today!

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

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Smoke Detector Safety and Maintenance Tips for Beckley?

1/31/2023 (Permalink)

A smoke detector alerts people to leave a smoke-filled house.

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

Our local team in Beckley witnesses firsthand the difference working smoke detectors make in a home’s escape plan. When smoke detectors are working correctly, they save lives and allow people to leave their homes quickly. Here are some smoke alarm safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Smoke Alarm Safety

A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home.
Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound.
Large homes may need extra smoke alarms
Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions yet mitigate false alarms
When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside
Replace all smoke alarms in your home every ten years

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Beckley has a fire damage emergency, our team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® We can manage all phases of the restoration process, from the initial cleanup phase to providing any rebuilding services when required to complete the restoration. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Christmas Tree Safety Tips for Beckley Residents?

12/13/2022 (Permalink)

A Christmas tree is loaded on top of a car.

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

Do you know that most home fires occur in December and January and on Saturdays and Sundays? Our local team in Beckley wants everyone to have a safe and fire-damage-free holiday season this year and offer these tips from the National Fire Protection Association for selecting and decorating your tree:

PICKING THE TREE

Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched

PLACING THE TREE

Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2 inches from the base of the trunk
Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights
Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit
Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.

LIGHTING THE TREE

Use lights that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.
Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect.
Never use lit candles to decorate the tree
Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Beckley has a fire damage emergency, we can help. Our local team in Beckley has the training, equipment, and experience to restore the damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Portable Fire Extinguisher Purchasing Tips for Beckley Residents?

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

A person uses a portable fire extinguisher to put out an oven fire.

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

Our local team in Beckley has been restoring fire damage in Raleigh County since 1999! Portable fire extinguishers can save lives and minimize fire damage when used correctly. Here are some tips for selecting a fire extinguisher for home use from the National Fire Protection Association:

For the home, choose a multi-purpose extinguisher (that can be used on all types of home fires) that is large enough to put out a small fire but not so heavy as to be difficult to handle
Choose a fire extinguisher that carries the label of an independent testing laboratory
Read the fire extinguisher instructions and become familiar with its parts and operation before a fire breaks out. Local fire departments or fire equipment distributors often offer hands-on fire extinguisher training.
Install fire extinguishers close to an exit and keep your back to a clear exit when you use the device so you can make an easy escape if the fire cannot be controlled. If the room fills with smoke, leave immediately.
Know when to go. Fire extinguishers are one element of a fire response plan, but the primary element is safe escape. Every household should have ahome fire escape plan and working smoke alarms.

Call Us Today!

When your Beckley home or commercial business has a fire damage emergency, our local team in Beckley can help. We'll restore the damage "Like it never even happened." Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Will My House Fire Damage Be Restored in Sophia?

9/9/2022 (Permalink)

A firefighter is putting out a house fire.

We are leaders in fire damage restoration in Raleigh County

Since 1991, our local team in Beckley has been restoring fire damage in Albemarle County. Sophia residents can rest easy knowing that we follow a comprehensive, seven-step process for every fire restoration.