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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Blog Posts

Need Help with Fire Damage Restoration in South Carolina – Call SERVPRO

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Picture of damaged wall/contents after fire in house Contacting SERVPRO after a fire in your home is the best recourse for effective results. Our technicians are standing by 24/7 for your emergency call.

SERVPRO Can Assist You to Handle Fire Damage in Your South Carolina Residence

After a fire breaks out in your residence, leaving the building immediately and having the local fire department extinguish the flames is essential. After the fire is out, using improper cleaning methods and products to clean your home can smear smoke residues and cause them to penetrate deeper into the affected materials. Call a restoration specialist like SERVPRO to stabilize your property and begin the restoration and rebuilding process.

We have the expertise, products, and equipment required to handle fire damage and return it to its pre-fire condition. The fire damage repair process varies slightly between cases and may involve the following activities:

  • Removing debris
  • Removing water and chemicals used to extinguish the fire.
  • Soot removal
  • Odor removal

During a fire, smoke and soot particles settle on and adhere to surfaces. Restoration involves removing the soot residues. Soot residues differ, and some types are easier to clean than others. The types of residues that our SERVPRO technicians usually clean include:

  • Wet smoke residues
  • Dry smoke residues
  • Dry and damp smoke residues
  • Fuel oil smoke residues

We use different cleaning methods to eliminate various kinds of residues. It is necessary to capture residues before removing them. Our SERVPRO technicians use fluids and air to release and carry soils away. Fluids and air carry suspended particles with them on contact. Dissolving and vacuuming are two methods we use to contact soils and carry them away. Vacuuming is effective in removing dry particles which are loosely attached to surfaces.

Our SERVPRO restorers can use thermal fogging equipment to remove odors.  Thermal foggers work by vaporizing petroleum-based or solvent-based deodorizers. They generate a fog or smoke that consists of small particles, ranging in size from one half a micron to 25 microns. They are approximately the size of odor-generating molecules. The particles make a fog similar to the smoke a fire produces, enabling the deodorizer to interact effectively with odor-causing residues.

For professional fire damage restoration services, call SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties at (803) 475-7500. We’re available around the clock.

How Can Trapped Water Get Removed from Hardwood Floors in Homes?

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Clearing moisture from wood flooring is vital for restoring properties. 

Wood flooring and accents are particularly susceptible and sensitive to water absorption, making it vital to clean surface water concerns as soon as possible. From ceiling leaks to flooding, hardwood elements are at risk until extraction and drying begin for the property. Evaluating the presence of moisture and damp pockets against or already absorbed into these elements is an important aspect of pre-job scoping. 

The Sensitivity of Hardwood to Absorption

Water removal for homes, especially on hardwood surfaces and floors, should begin as soon as possible. A combination of extraction devices can help to eliminate pooling before excessive absorption. Cellulose in wood planks can aid in faster absorption rates, but drying these materials is still possible if the moisture has yet to chemically bond with the wood molecules. More than just hardwood flooring can be impacted by moisture damage, as well, including:

  • Wood framing, including crawl space joists
  • Shelves
  • Vanities
  • Furniture
  • Cabinetry

Potential Obstacles in the Drying Process 

While the extraction process might involve a range of tools from wands and wet vacuums to truck-mount extractors, drying is typically grounded with the same base machines and devices. Air movers can help overcome obstacles like vapor barriers and cool air pockets forming above drying materials that hinder recovery speed. Moisture monitoring with surface meters tracks the pace of water removal from wood planks and materials to prevent over-drying and subsequent harm.

Protecting flooring and installed elements in the property begins with effective surface mitigation solutions to remove standing water. We have efficient options for pulling free water trapped in the material as well before irreparable harm occurs. Count on our SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster County team for a fast response to help at (803)-475-7500.

Water Inside Your Home Can Cause Severe Damage

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage from a busted water line is one of many ways that any home can suffer damage to the interior. While water from a water line is clean water, depending on where this line is located, the water may not remain clean. Becoming contaminated with dirty carpeting, such as is commonly found in basements, can create water that is a different category.

Categories of Water Damage

Clean water coming directly from a water line is Category 1 water. It poses no risks to health or safety unless it meets an electrical source or contaminants. Category 2 water may have contaminants, particularly bacteria in it, and generally comes from rainfall or melting snow. Category 3 water contains pathogens that can make you ill. Water damage not something that you should wait to clean up. Category 1 water can change quickly into Category 3 water when it has been contaminated by carpets, mixed with water found in basement drains, or is left standing on unfinished basement floors.

Mold Quickly Grows When Given Even Small Amounts of Moisture
 
When a water line has burst, your first move should be to shut off the water at the valve. This will stop any additional water from entering your home. If any electrical lines are affected by the water, you need to call the power company to shut off the power. You can then remove most of any standing water by using a mop and buckets. If there is too much water, you should call SERVPRO right away. We are experts in the removal of water and humidity so that mold will not have a chance to grow.

 Mold grows quickly in even low levels of moisture. This is because spores are always present in homes, but are kept inactive because of the normal low-level of humidity and moisture. Having all the water extracted will help prevent this problem. We have special equipment that detects any moisture, and can then pinpoint where these areas are located at. We will inspect the area where your leak was at and any adjacent areas. We will then know exactly where to place our drying equipment for maximum performance.

Water Damage Doesn't Need to Remain Damaged

The mess made by water must be cleaned up quickly to keep the damage from spreading and from changing into worse damage. We are a professional water damage restoration service they can reduce the chances of the damaging effects of the mold by eliminating the water that has flooded your home, no matter the source.

Call SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties at (803) 475-7500 and we'll soon have your home back in its pre-damaged state again.

SERVPRO Residential Services-Carpets/Upholstery/Walls

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties, we offer more than just commercial mitigations and storm cleanups.  SERVPRO offers a variety of residential services, to include ceiling, floor and wall cleanings.  This service extends to window and blind treatments as well. 

One area of cleaning many homeowners dread is the ceilings, walls, and floors. Because they make up the frame of each room inside your home, they get exposed to the common irritants of daily life such as pet dander, cigarette smoke, grease, dirt, and dust. Your HVAC system can distribute these common irritants throughout the house, so maintaining these surfaces should be a part of your regular home maintenance.

If you’re planning to paint, having your walls professionally cleaned beforehand will help prepare them so that the primer and paint will adhere properly. SERVPRO has the tools to do the labor-intensive job of cleaning your walls, floors, and ceilings. We use proprietary cleaning products and methods to get the job done right. Our goal is to leave your entire property clean and smelling fresh.

Window treatments such as blinds, curtains and sheers do more than give you privacy and filter out light. Over time, they can collect typical household odors, dust, allergens and pet hair. It’s recommended that they be cleaned about every two years to keep them fresh and looking their best. SERVPRO’s highly-trained professionals know how to inspect and test fabrics to determine which of their many cleaning methods is most appropriate. We excel in cleaning fine fabrics and intricate pieces. Unlike other drapery cleaning companies, SERVPRO has various cleaning methods and will work with you to determine the method that best meets your needs. We even offer an exclusive process of dry cleaning draperies right in your home, so you can hold on to your privacy while getting them cleaned.

For hardwood floors, SERVPRO has a variety of products that can clean your hardwood floors effectively and safely.  These products are specifically made for hardwood floors and will not damage the surface or penetrate the wood.  SERVPRO will move any freestanding furniture on these surfaces in order to clean.

How to Fix a Running Toilet

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

It’s a necessity in every residential and commercial building: the toilet.  Proper toilet and plumbing maintenance are essential for helping to protect your property from the risk of water damage, but all too often, people find that their toilet just won’t stop running!  Fortunately, a running toilet is often a simple fix, with one of these three most common causes:

  1. A Broken or Dirty Flapper. The flapper is the rubber piece inside of the tank that stops the water from going down into the bowl.  This flapper is regulated by the flushing handle, attached to a chain.  If the flapper becomes damaged, warped, or soiled, the hole to the bowl will not seal properly, allowing the toilet to run continuously.  By turning off the water to the toilet, draining the tank, and inspecting the flapper, you can determine if cleaning or replacement will be necessary.
  2. Improper Chain Length. The chain between the flushing handle and the flapper must be the proper length to allow the flapper to seal properly after flushing.  If the chain is too short, the flapper will not be able to settle into the proper position to seal the toilet tank from the bowl.  Checking the chain for any damages, and adjusting the length if needed, can help correct any running toilet issues.
  3. Float Out of Position. This float regulates the water level within the toilet tank and is often accompanied by a fill level indication on the tank.  If the float is positioned too high, this will allow too much water into the tank, which will continually cause the toilet to run. 

Not only can fixing your running toilet help reduce the risk of a water damage, but it can also save quite a bit of money on you water bill.  If your toilet, or any other commercial or residential appliance, does happen to cause your home or business a water damage, know that SERVPRO of Bay County is equipped and prepared to help.  We have been serving the cleanup and restoration needs of Northwest Florida for over 30 years, giving us the experience, training, and expertise to handle damages of all sizes.

Water Damage from Dishwasher leaked to Basement Ceiling

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO drying fans drying water damage to home Since the ceiling was the affected area due to water damage the team was able to pinpoint the areas for drying.

Recently, SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties responded to a home that had experienced a leak from their broken dishwasher.  The water from the dishwasher had leaked into the ceiling and was visible from their basement.  The team was able to respond quickly, and was able to turn the water off to the dishwasher preventing more water damage.  The water unfortunately had leaked to the ceiling of the homeowner's basement, facilitating the need for dryers to be set up and dry the water stained areas.  The team also inspected all areas for mold growth.  

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety.  With this particular scenario, with the homeowner being able to determine the source of the water was the dishwasher safety was easy to maintain.  If you do not know where the source of the water is stemming from it is better to err on the side of caution.  Electrical and slip and fall hazards are the biggest concerns.  Do not leave wet fabrics in place.  Hang furs or leather goods.  Try not to leave books, magazines, or other items on wet carpet or floors.  Do not use your household vacuum to remove water.  Try not to use household appliances if wet or ceiling fixtures if walls are wet.

SERVPRO Arrives Quickly to your Home to Start Fast Flood Damage Restoration Measures

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

When a storm blows through and your house sustains any flood damage this is something that needs to be addressed quickly.  SERVPRO’s quick response time will help you navigate the cleanup in the most efficient way.  Calling in the help of our trained technicians is the best way to get quality results.  SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties will be dispatched on site within 4 hours after your call.

When our team arrives at your home we bring advanced equipment and tools for efficient water removal and drying.  These include:

  • Water Removal Tools – We carry a range of tools for water extraction, including submersible pumps, truck-mount extraction tools, light-wand extractors, rovers, and much more. The tools are chosen depending on the water damage type, amount of water, and the materials within the flood zone.
  • High-Speed Air Mover Tools – Our IICRC-certified technicians use a unique formula to determine whether industrial fans or professional-grade centrifugal air movers are needed. This also tells us how many pieces of equipment must be placed in the zone to reach the highest levels of drying efficiency.
  • Dehumidification Equipment – We have a variety of industrial-grade dehumidifiers at our disposal to help us regulate the moisture and relative humidity in the air. These dehumidification tools play an elemental role in preventing the onset of bacteria and mold, as well as secondary damage to your building materials.

If a storm has wrought flood damage to your home please call our skilled SERVPRO team at (803)-475-7500.

Fire Pit Safety Ideas

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Fall is truly here in the Carolinas and that can typically mean enjoying fire pits in the backyard. Many of us are looking forward to spending time gathering around them to enjoy time with family and friends. Before you start dreaming of movies on the lawn, moonlit nights, and s’mores, take a moment to check out some of these tips from Allstate to remember.

Backyard Fire Pit Safety Tips:

  • Whether you prefer a built-in or portable fire pit, choose one that is not too large for the area. The pit should be a minimum of 10 feet away from any structures or combustible materials as well as away from trees, fences, sheds, power lines, and telephone wires.
  • Make certain that the seating area is large enough and properly placed for comfort and ventilation.
  • Check wind direction before lighting a fire.
  • Don’t use flammable fluids (gasoline, lighter fluid, etc.) to light or relight fires.
  • To start the fire, use a lighter to ignite crumpled pieces of paper covered with small sticks. Then, add larger sticks and a log or two to keep it burning. 
  • Burn only dry material. Damp material will create excess smoke. 
  • Don’t wear flammable clothing (like nylon) or any loose-fitting clothing.
  • Never leave the fire unattended and keep pets and children far away from the fire as they will be attracted to it.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose, or bucket of water nearby.
  • As the fire dies down, use a shovel, and spread out the ashes to allow them to cool down. Then slowly pour water over those ashes and watch them closely to be sure that no burning embers remain or reignite. Put the cooled ashes in a specially designated ash storage metal can. 

Residential Cleaning Services-Carpet and Upholstery Cleanings

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties, we offer more than just storm, fire, and water damage cleanups/restorations. SERVPRO also offers a wide variety of home deep cleanings. These services include:

  • Air Ducts & HVAC
  • Biohazard
  • Carpet and Upholstery
  • Ceiling, Floors and Walls
  • Drapes and Blinds
  • Odor Removal
  • Sewage and Toilet Overflow
  • Trauma and Crime Scene
  • Vandalism and Graffiti

This post will highlight the third service, carpet and upholstery cleanings. A professional carpet and upholstery cleaner can remove deep-seated dirt and grime to keep your carpet and rugs looking their best as well as extending their lifespan. Even the most high-quality items can become soiled with dust, dirt, pet hair, and the daily traffic of family life. SERVPRO applies more than 50 years of knowledge and experience in restoration to carpet and upholstery cleaning projects of all sizes. Depending on your situation, we use a variety of cleaning methods with the goal of returning them to their original appearance.

Carpets and textiles such as upholstery and draperies act as a filter, trapping dust, dirt, gases, animal hair and other soils. Dirt builds up in layers, and when carpet looks dirty you are actually only seeing the dirt at the tip of the carpet fibers. Any spots or heavily soiled areas will be treated prior to cleaning. While not all stains can be removed, we have the knowledge, methods, and cleaners necessary to remove spots and stains, if possible. SERVPRO has 10 fabric cleaning methods and are able to match our services to your cleaning needs.

What SERVPRO Professionals Can Do to Save the Contents of your South Carolina Home After Flood Damage

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Take the Time to Discuss How SERVPRO Can Save Your Belongings from Flood Waters--It Is Likely Far Better News Than You Fear

Severe thunderstorms are a summer staple in South Carolina, and their intensity increases with the high winds of tornadoes and tropical weather systems. Since you never know precisely when such devastation could occur, consider how choosing a reliable flood recovery firm can change the outcome for the better when you have the time to weigh your options. 

Can One Flooding Restoration Company Help Me with Both Structural Damage and Soaking Wet Contents?

After a storm, flood damage is commonplace. When you view ads in the media for the response you can expect from professionals, the focus seems mostly on extracting water from and drying out the structure. We appreciate that to make a house a home, you choose to fill it with practical and beloved possessions. Fixing one without attending to the other would not be pursuing our mission to make it “Like it never even happened.” Therefore, we also invest in trained people and strategies to return your belongings to preloss condition. 

What Help Can SERVPRO Offer?

Our production facility awaits a partial or full pack-out of your furnishings, household goods, and personal possessions after a flood. We use a detailed, highly-digitized Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) while packing, transporting, and evaluating your property for appropriate mitigation and remediation action. Our specially prepared technicians use the following options, among others, to restore your things to function and appearance: 

  • Freeze-drying for papers and photos 
  • Small drying compartments for upholstered furnishings and electronics 
  • Commercial washing and drying systems and drying cleaning resources for textiles and other soft items 

Count on the multi-talented and certified team at SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties to regain both your house and your treasures after flood damage. Call us at (803)-475-7500  to explore your restoration opportunities.

What To Do When You Discover A Water Heater Leak

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

If you have a leaking water heater, it can lead to much larger issues within your home. Even a small amount of water can harm your floor or surrounding walls. If you have a large leak, you may see quite extensive damage to your home. Here is what you need to do when you discover a failed water heater with a puddle surrounding it.

Examine the Unit
Puddles in the basement of your home can form for a variety of reasons so be sure to take a close look at your unit to be sure that a leaking water heater is the source of the problem. Be sure to check:

  • Pipes above and around the puddle
  • Nearby floor drains
  • Cracks in walls or floors 

Disconnect Power 
With a leaking or broken water heater, you need to get the power source turned off. An electric water heater can be turned off easily by flipping its designated circuit breaker switch to the off position. A gas version will have an on/off switch on its exterior. 

Turn Off the Water Source
If you have a significant amount of water leaking, it is important to get the water supply turned off as quickly as possible. Most water heaters will have a valve located above them. Be careful not to come into contact with the water as you turn it off. If you cannot access the valve safely, you may need to turn off your home's main water supply instead. 

Clean Up
Any water leak in your home must be properly cleaned up in order to avoid substantial damage, mold and mildew. Clean up water as soon as you can with towels, especially if it is in contact with drywall, carpet or flooring. For a large leak or a long-term leak that has just been discovered, be sure to contact specialists trained in water damage repair to ensure a thorough cleanup. 
Proper care needs to be taken when any water incident happens within your home. Keep a leaking water heater from causing immense harm to your home by following these tips.

Commercial Property Water Damage and Restoration Process

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Carpeted floor of office saturated in standing water Entrance to SERVPRO Indian Land Office was flooded with water damage

Recently, SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties had a water leak in our own offices here in Indian Land, SC.  Upon entry it was found that a toilet supply line in the bathroom had failed, and in turn spread water throughout the office.  All flooring/carpet was damaged with standing water found.  This type of water damage can happen in any commercial office space, especially overnight which was the case here.  Luckily the team was able to come in quickly the next morning and shut off the water supply and determine where the leak originated.  The following steps were taken (and are still underway), in restoring the office.

Within an hour of finding the office flooded, the water removal process began.  The first step after assessing your commercial property is a thorough extraction of water.  This helps prevent the spread of water in the structure and reduces drying time.  By using powerful pumps and extraction units hundreds of gallons of water are removed.

The next step in this process would be removing any damaged materials.  In this case office chairs, desks, sofa, and coffee table were removed and inspected for damage.  Removing these items as soon as possible will expedite the drying of any restorable materials.

Water damage can create cleaning, sanitizing or deodorization needs for floors, furniture, and any other personal belongings.  SERVPRO technicians use a variety of specially formulated products, industry leading equipment, and proven techniques to accomplish this important aspect of restoration.  A big risk that also comes along with water damage is mold forming.  By cleaning and sanitizing the team can prevent mold from forming and becoming a problem in the future.

After the bulk of the water has been removed, and items taken out that may have been damaged, our specialists use drying equipment to remove the water you can’t see.  This will target water within materials to bring them back to their normal moisture levels.  The equipment is normally placed during the first visit to your commercial property, and the type and amount will be based on your specific property needs.

Next, during the drying process, our technicians will visit the property daily to monitor the progress.  This ensures that materials are drying properly, check the drying equipment performance, and make any changes needed.

After these steps, your property may need construction work to get your property back to its preloss condition.  These repairs range from minor repairs or rebuilding large areas of your building.  SERVPRO can handle both the initial damage mitigation and rebuild the affected areas, saving you time and keeping costs low.

SERVPRO Residential Services-Biohazard Cleanup

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties, we offer more than just storm, fire, and water damage cleanups/restorations.  SERVPRO also offers a wide variety of home deep cleanings.  These services include:

  • Air Ducts & HVAC
  • Biohazard
  • Carpet and Upholstery
  • Ceiling, Floors and Walls
  • Drapes and Blinds
  • Odor Removal
  • Sewage and Toilet Overflow
  • Trauma and Crime Scene
  • Vandalism and Graffiti 

This post will highlight the second service we offer, biohazard cleanings.  Biohazard cleanups include any situation that needs hazmat, trauma, or crime scene cleanup.  This type of situation requires competence, experience and respect for all involved. Our skilled professionals will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances. Once the police have completed their investigation of a crime scene, cleanup and restoration can begin. This involves an assessment of your property to determine the proper equipment and cleaning products needed.

Disinfection is important in a biohazard situation because potentially infectious materials may be present. SERVPRO teams have the training and tools to handle these incidents professionally and discretely.

Because traumatic events often involve biological and chemical contaminants, it’s very important to know that the restoration process is being handled in compliance with all government, environmental and health regulations. Our professionals do this in the safest way possible to you, your property and everyone living or working on your property. We are trained and prepared both physically and mentally to handle biohazard, trauma, and crime scene cleanup and restoration with respect and professionalism.

Wind Damage Prevention Tips

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

High winds in the fall can pose threats to your property.  Taking steps to secure things outside of your home and on your actual property can minimize any potential damage.  If a windstorm does damage parts of your house, SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is here to help.  We have a team of highly trained technicians that are available 24/7 and are leading experts in storm damage restoration.  SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is also available to help you navigate the insurance claims process, ensuring that it is a quick and easier experience.  Below are some useful tips to do in or around your home to mitigate any wind damage:

  1. Trim Trees and Shrubs.  Trees close to your house can be uprooted or branches may snap.  High winds can also turn these branches into dangers projectiles during the storm.
  2. Remove debris from your yard. Bring in any outdoor furniture.  Both light and heavy furniture may be scattered during strong winds.  These include things such as trampolines, lawn chairs, pool supplies, and even garden décor.
  3. Cover windows. This would be necessary to guard against flying debris.  Plywood or professionally installed shutters are best. 
  4. Reinforce garage doors. This will prevent wind from entering and causing expensive damage.
  5. Proper Maintenance. Ensuring that roofing materials or fencing are in good condition to allow them to be more resistant to wind damage.
  6. Clear clogged rain gutters or downspouts. In the event of heavy rainfall, this will help with the flow of water.

If your home does experience damage from a storm calling SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties at (803)-475-7500 and a team will come out and asses the damage, and clean it “Like it never even happened.”

Fried Turkey Thanksgiving Safety Tips

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Fried Turkey is amazing and a newer trend that has become popular in the last ten years.  According to the National Fire Protection Association, every year deep-fryer fires are responsible for five deaths, sixty injuries, 900 home fires and more than $15 million dollars in property damage.  Injuring yourself or your property is not going to result in the best Thanksgiving for you and your family.  Following these 13 turkey frying safety tips can ensure that you will have a injury and damage free Thanksgiving.  If a fire does occur, our team at SERVPRO is here to help.

TURKEY FRYING SAFETY TIPS

  • Never leave the fryer unattended.
  • Keep children and pets away from the fryer at all times.
  • Wear protective equipment – eye protection and grill mitts.
  • Defrost your turkey COMPLETELY – and dry it immersing it in hot oil.
  • Keep a grease-rated fire extinguisher within arms reach of your work area.
  • Never operate a fryer outdoors in the rain or snow.
  • Keep outdoor fryers away from combustible structures or trees – that means off the deck, too!
  • Place the fryer on a level surface and do not move it around once heating.
  • Leave two feet between the tank and the burner when using a propane-powered fryer – consider wrapping hose in aluminum foil to prevent hot oil that may splatter from touching it.
  • Do not overfill the fryer.
  • Turn off burner if oil is smoking. Use a fryer with a temperature gauge and keep a sharp eye on it.
  • Turn off the burner before lowering the turkey into the oil. Once the turkey is submerged, turn the burner on.
  • Once finished, carefully remove the pot from the burner, place it on a level surface and cover to let the oil cool overnight before disposing.

SERVPRO Residential Services-Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties, we offer more than just storm, fire, and water damage cleanups/restorations.  SERVPRO also offers a wide variety of home deep cleanings.  These services include:

  • Air Ducts & HVAC
  • Biohazard
  • Carpet and Upholstery
  • Ceiling, Floors and Walls
  • Drapes and Blinds
  • Odor Removal
  • Sewage and Toilet Overflow
  • Trauma and Crime Scene
  • Vandalism and Graffiti

This post will highlight the first service, Air duct and HVAC cleaning.  Cleaning these elements and maintaining them will ultimately 8improve the quality of the air in your home.  We bring our experience and training and the duct cleaning process meets industry standards as defined by the National Air Duct Cleaner’s Association. Our technicians are knowledgeable in the use of duct cleaning tools and are held to all applicable safety standards in helping to restore and maintain a cleaner environment in your home.

Your technician will access your system of the duct interiors through existing openings if possible.  This consists of return grills, duct end caps and service openings.  Your technician will begin by breaking contaminants loose from your system via hand or vacuum to agitate dirt and dust.  Technicians use a variety of equipment and often may use chemicals to help sanitize, disinfect and deodorize your air ducts.  It is important to deal with an experienced and reputable company such as SERVPRO to be sure any chemicals used are EPA safe.

As a homeowner you should consider having a complete HVAC air duct cleaning if there is any substantial mold growth visible inside the ducts, if there are any rodents or insects in the system, or if the ducts are clogged with dust a debris that is getting released into your home through the registers.  According to the EPA, some research suggests that a cleaning may improve the efficiency of your HVAC system, which in turn may lead to longer cost savings in repairs down the road.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties Participates in Community Event

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

4 SERVPRO team members pictured in the SERVPRO tent that was sponsoring a part of the golf tournament Pictured: Greg Self (Production Manager), Anna Hunter (Marketing Representative), Kerri Rice (Marketing Manager), and Michael Pezant (Owner).

Earlier this month SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties attended a golf event put on by the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce.  The annual "Rub of the Green" golf event was held at Carolina Lakes at Sun City, and part of the team came out and participated in the tournament.  Also, the team handed out snacks and refreshments at the eighth hole where SERVPRO sponsored.  

The networking event helped raise money towards the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce, which in turn supports many businesses in Lancaster County.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is proud to be a part of the local community.

Groundwater Flood Damage and Pack-out Procedures for Kershaw and Lancaster County Residents

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

Sustained rainfall can result in groundwater flooding of your property. Not only do high standing water levels exert significant pressure on your walls and flooring, but they can also carry high levels of contamination.

As a homeowner, you may be able to deal with clean water emergencies yourself. However, floodwaters carry with them water that is extremely dirty and potentially dangerous.You need professional assistance from trained technicians to overcome flood damage to your home.

At SERVPRO, we run a unique out-of-hours emergency service for victims of groundwater, flash flooding, or storm-related events. We will ensure that your property and contents sustain as little harm as possible. We strive to reduce the expense of your claim by using our advanced equipment and professional expertise to repair the damages quickly.

In severe flooding scenarios, it may be necessary to store your contents at the separate facilities while work is undertaken. Separate storage can frequently mitigate against further losses while we work to restore the structure itself. When a pack-out service is necessary, SERVPRO technicians take an automated inventory of your possessions, their condition, and the rooms to which they belong. This ensures you are covered in the unlikely event of transit damages.

As part of the restoration service, SERVPRO can arrange for moving your home’s contents to a secure, clean warehouse where it will be housed while restoration is done to your property.  Temperature controlled, secure warehouse at our Kershaw/Lancaster County facility will keep your home’s contents safe.

One advantage of a pack-out procedure is that it can significantly reduce the timeframe of your property restoration. Less furniture provides greater access to all areas of your home's structure. This access can be helpful should we need to perform structural or cavity drying as well as demolition of non-salvageable materials. Once your property has been returned to a sanitary condition, we can use our automated inventory to put furniture and possessions back where we found them.

Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Fire

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Can resolve your Commercial Fire Damage

Getting hit with a fire in your commercial business building can be an owner’s worst nightmare. In addition to causing financial challenges, hardships, and damage to the property's structure, fires can leave the by-product of water damage that leads to the presence of unwanted mold. To ensure that your commercial property can be restored to its original safe and sanitary condition promptly, it's important to call SERVPRO. To get a clear, concise understanding of how to quickly address and resolve your fire damage issues, refer to the following outline:

Call Your Insurer

Your initial call after your property has suffered extensive fire damage is to your insurance agent. The insurer should be effective and expedient in helping you locate temporary accommodations where you can conduct business while your property is renovated and restored if this is appropriate. The insurer should also be able to assist you with the process of finding a professional fire damage restoration company. SERVPRO works with over many insurance companies, agencies, and property management corporations. In some cases, your insurance provider can request that you create an inventory of all the personal belongings, capital improvements, electronics, furnishings, and documents on the property, as well as their value. SERVPRO can generate a comprehensive inventory for salvageable, non-salvageable, and questionable content to assist you. This is our helpful Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) form.  Final decisions, replacement or clean and repair of contents, are always between you and your insurance company. 

The Assessment of Water and Fire Damages

Although each aspect of the fire damage restoration process is important, the initial assessment plays an integral role in the whole procedure. During the assessment, specialists perform several tests to determine the time frame and costs necessary to restore your property. This forms the basis to implement the actual fire damage restoration steps. Standing water, the result of the firefighting efforts, must first be extracted. Our skilled technicians clean up debris and remove it for storage or discarding. The drying step utilizes dehumidifiers and air movers to draw moisture and humidity from the business. Soot cleaning and smoke and odor elimination continue the restoration process. SERVPRO possesses state-of-the-art equipment such as ozone machines, foggers, and mold remediation chemicals to bring the fire damage restoration to completion. 

The SERVPRO team of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is an IICRC-certified crew offering you the precise, proficient services you need to get you back in business after fire damage. Call us at (803)-475-7500.

Why are Professionals Needed to Remove Soot after Fire Damage?

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

Soot Damage on a Wall Soot Damage on the Walls will require expert cleaning

After a house or commercial fire, no matter the size, dealing with the aftermath of smoke and soot can be a heavy burden for home or business owners.  It is important to correctly clean soot off of any surfaces and out of the air after a fire.  These tiny particles of soot can continue to stain surfaces it rests on in your home or business.  SERVPRO is trained and educated on how to remove these particles safely and effectively.  Soot removal can be a tedious and dirty job.  The goal with SERVPRO is to resolve your soot issue in the correct way, and restore your home and belongings to its previous condition. 

Here are three reasons why choosing SERVPRO to get soot professionally removed is the right decision:

  1. Time is not always on your side. If left untreated or in the area for too long, smoke and soot will damage your property. Serious health effects can happen due to the soot’s particularly small particle size. Soot can be very acidic which does not mix well on some surfaces and possessions in a home. If walls are cleaned incorrectly, they can leave a permanent soot stain on them.   When having SERVPRO come in immediately, much of this potential damage can be avoided. 
  2. There are also things you cannot see in a home or business that is affected by fire/soot as well.  Smoke and soot can get into the insulation and HVAC system.  If your HVAC system is running during a fire or following a fire, soot particles will enter your air ducts and filters, causing persistent odor problems and possibly even negative health effects. To prevent this, we will clean your air ducts and ensure that all harmful and odor-causing particulate health effects are removed. Open windows, install fans and get the air moving will also help with removing some soot and odor but restoration companies have the tools to get the more difficult areas cleaned. Such as if there is a lot of moisture present, there will have to be significant dehumidifying to the air or risk secondary damage from mold. If the fire department sprayed your building with a lot of water, you’ll need to do some water damage restoration first as well. Professional duct, vent and HVAC cleaning is also highly recommended.
  3. Getting the job done correctly the first time. Soot is a messy and oily residue that leaves its mark on your home. By hiring SERVPRO, you can be assured that the job will be done in a timely fashion and done to standard specifications. Smoke seeps through cracks, crevices, and hidden places, damaging areas you may not be able to see.

Local and Professional Water Damage Mitigation Service Providers

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Many homes in South Carolina may end up experiencing water damage at some point in time. Many people imagine absolute chaos, such as a burst pipe or a failed sump pump, but in actuality many home damages can be minor such as a dishwasher leak, or a pipe dripping can cause you to seek out the services of professionals.  SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is here to help in any of these cases.

Imagine noticing a puddle under your refrigerator in your home. Over several days, the water line feeding the ice maker had been dribbling water, and you did not notice until there was moisture on the floor. Leaving this water to its own devices for too long could cause problems for your home. The best thing you could do for your home is to get professional help right away. 

What Might Happen to My Kitchen if I Wait Too Long? 

Leaving your home subject to water damage can only cause more damage. Water can cause:

  • Split or cracked tile
  • Bubbling and swelling wooden floors and cabinetry
  • Rust on metal appliances
  • Mold damage

Fixing a leak a few days after it first occurs is better than waiting even longer. Imagine that the longer water sits unaddressed, it continues to add expenses to your remediation costs, and it can jeopardize your home's longevity. Working with SERVPRO can prevent these extra costs. 

Why SERVPRO? 

Our technicians are expertly trained and have thousands of hours of combined experience using our advanced technological devices. When your home is in danger, trust us to:

  • Arrive swiftly and get to work promptly
  • Use top-of-the-line equipment designed for water damage remediation
  • Treat you with respect, work around your schedule, and keep you informed

At SERVPRO, we strive to provide you with the best experience and leave you with a smile on your face. Let us make you feel, "Like it never even happened." 

If you believe your home needs water mitigation services, do not leave the damage unattended. Call us here at SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties by dialing (803)-475-7500. We're here to help you.

Halloween Fire Safety Tips

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

Haunted House with pumpkin and SERVPRO van in front Prepare for a safe and happy Halloween!

As we enter in the holiday season there are many things you might want to consider to keep you and your loved ones safe this season.  Halloween is right around the corner and is a fun, festive holiday for kids and adults.  One of the most iconic parts of Halloween involve candles in pumpkin jack o’lanterns, and strung colored lights around the house and trees.  Porch decorations such as dried corn stalks, and hay adorn many houses during this Halloween season.  Occasionally these fun festive things can become a fire hazard waiting to happen and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has a few tips for you to keep your Halloween as safe as possible.  

Decorations for special events, most often involving candles, account for an annual average of 800 home fires, causing nearly $4 million in direct property damage, according to NFPA. Additionally, in the United States, more than 100 people die each year as a result of their clothing becoming ignited. 

Here are the top tips from the NFPA:

Use a battery-operated candle or glow stick in jack-o-lanterns.  When planning party decorations, bear in mind that dried flowers and cornstalks are highly flammable. Keep crepe paper and other decorations well away from all heat sources, including light bulbs, heaters, etc. Decorating with candles should be avoided. Pumpkins can be safely illuminated with small, inexpensive flashlights. When decorating, remember to keep exits clear. Be sure children are supervised at all times.

When choosing costumes, stay away from long trailing fabric.  Purchase only those costumes, wigs and props labeled as flame resistant or retardant. When creating a costume, plan carefully to ensure that it won’t easily ignite if it comes in contact with heat or flame. Costumes should be made without billowing or long trailing features that present a higher risk of ignition. Avoid highly flammable fabrics and accessories.

Teach children to stay away from open flames, including jack-o-lanterns with candles in them.  Instruct children to stay away from open flames or other heat sources. Be sure each child knows the stop, drop and roll technique in the event their clothing catches fire. (Stop immediately, drop to the ground covering your face with your hands, and roll over and over to extinguish the flames.) Instruct children who are attending parties at others’ homes to locate the exits and plan how they would get out in an emergency.

Commercial Carpet Cleaning for Your South Carolina Business

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Often times customers and clients first impression of a business is its cleanliness.  Clean carpets an play an especially important role in showcasing a well maintained place of business.  Since commercial carpets withstand much wear and tear, it is important to hae them professionally cleaned often, especially in high-traffic areas.  If your regular janitorial services are unable to create the clean carpet look you desire, it is time to call in the professionals and our team at SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties.  Our certified technicians will work around your company’s regular scheduled business hours to clean your company’s carpets. 

Our team can also work with your business in setting up a deep cleaning schedule of your carpets.  Offices with heavy foot traffic may need professional cleaning twice a year, however some offices may only need it once per year.  There are many benefits in having your commercial carpet professionally cleaned. 

Extend the life of the Flooring

Having your commercial flooring regularly cleaned will help extend the lifespan of the carpets. When debris is left to stay in the flooring it breaks down the fibers leading to permanent staining. Keeping the flooring clean will limit the amount of time contaminants are in the carpets.

Indoor Air Quality Improvement

Carpets collect a variety of compounds over time. Each time someone walks on the carpet their footsteps kick the soil in the carpet into the air, representing a breathing risk. This is one of the contributors to poor indoor air quality. Only one of the reasons regular maintenance is recommended.

Extend the life of your carpets

Professional commercial carpet cleaning helps prevent spots that could otherwise become permanent stains if left untreated.  Regular cleanings can extend the life of your carpets resulting in long-term savings.

How SERVPRO can help with Storm Damage due to Flooding

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Storm and water damage affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties understand that your home is more than a structure; your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings help transform a house into a home.

SERVPRO specializes in restoring contents damaged by storms and other water damage events.  Our focus is on the “restore” not “replace” mentality, and our goal is to leave your home looking “Like it never even happened.” 

If your home or possessions require specialized cleaning, our SERVPRO team will remove items efficiently from your space and store at our warehouse for specialized cleaning.  Those items will be further protected from on-site damage and cleaned if necessary.  All items will be moved back in when restoration of your home is complete, and is often time covered by your insurance depending on your coverage.

Often times your home electronics will present a hazard if it is suspected it has been damaged by any water.  This includes TV Sets, DVD players, computers, and other electronics.  Electronics will be cleaned and inspected by one of our qualified technicians. 

Ways to Protect Your Home Before a Storm Hits

9/23/2021 (Permalink)

In recent years, parts of the U.S. have experienced extreme weather such as floods, tornadoes, hail, and blizzards that have had a direct impact on homeowners.  Even an intense summer thunderstorm in South Carolina can produce high winds and flooding, leaving unexpected damage in its wake.  If you do find that a storm has damaged your home, SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is here to help, with 24/7 emergency response.  SERVPRO technicians will assess the damage done to your home and ensure the proper steps are taken with the goal of restoration.

There are some steps homeowners can take to protect their property during stormy weather to reduce the chance of any catastrophic damages.   Here are six steps you can take:

  1. Clear away outdoor items.  This includes lawn furniture, tools, sporting equipment.  High winds can send these items across yards and into windows.
  2. Trim the trees. Storms will often snap branches off of large trees which can damage you home or car. 
  3. Consider storm shutters. Your home can still be damaged from strong winds and rains through windows.  With a broken window the wind may blow inside to damage the interior. 
  4. Ensure you have backup power. Electrical lines are especially vulnerable in a storm.  Fallen branches can snap power lines and lightning can blow up transformers causing power outages.  Consider buying a surge protecting device and having an electrician install.  Backup home generators can also provide useful in the event there is a long term electricity outage.
  5. Flood proof your home. Flooding can potentially damage your entire home from floors to below in crawlspaces.  Any moisture in these areas can cause mold which would require professional mold remediation.
  6. Have plans for where you will go. If storm damage forces you out of your home temporarily have an idea of where you and your family will be staying beforehand.

Call SERVPRO for Expert Commercial Coronavirus Cleaning Services

9/23/2021 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Sticker on business window from Servpronet Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned sticker on window of building

With the COVID-19 Pandemic ongoing it is more important than ever to have your building kept clean.  Many businesses have reopened with full staff coming back full time into the office and have customers in and out daily.  SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is uniquely prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC.  SERVPRO has spent years dealing with biological contaminants and uses multiple products that are recommended by the CDC to disinfect many pathogens.  Our professionals are trained to perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection.  Cleanup procedures include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting those surfaces, as well as the cleaning/disinfecting of equipment, tools, and disposal of waste. 

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that SERVPRO offers to commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 global pandemic. This is a level of clean that goes way beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. When an establishment chooses Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, employees, customers, and the community can rest assured that they have selected a higher standard of clean.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned– Program

When the stakes are this high, SERVPRO is a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We have developed expertise from cleaning up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable, including confirmed COVID-19 locations. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects the unique experiences and capabilities of America’s #1 clean-up and restoration brand. The program is grounded with our unique 3C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

Consult

Not all spaces and facilities are the same, which is why we will assign a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who works to understands the business and create a custom COVID-19 cleaning program to meet your specific needs. SERVPRO has worked in a wide variety of industries with businesses ranging from start-ups to global, multinational organizations. That’s why we know to start such a critical cleaning process with a consultation.

Each specific program will be developed based on a range of factors including business type, size of space, amount of high-frequency touch points, foot traffic, and congestion points. As a result, clients will know that Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is not just an industry leading standard in clean, the cleaning is customized to each facility’s need.

Clean

Each location will undergo a thorough, expert deep clean rooted in the pillars of People, Process, and Product. Combining our proprietary training, cleaning solutions, and processes creates an industry-leading solution that will help provide businesses, employees, and customers the peace of mind that they are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

People. SERVPRO Professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, including COVID-19 cleaning, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform.

Process. SERVPRO professionals are trained to perform proactive or emergency COVID-19 cleaning that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials. In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure the facility can get back to business as quickly as possible. 

ProductCertified:SERVPRO Cleaned has more than 100 exclusive cleaning products to meet any need including our proprietary cleaning agent, SERVPROXIDE, which is a hospital-grade disinfectant that carries the Environmental Protection Agency’s lowest toxicity category and is National Sanitation Foundation certified for direct food contact surface use. All our products carry the EPA’s registered emerging pathogens claims and meet the standard set by the CDC for use to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Certify  

We’re going to extend our credibility as a premier biohazard cleaning company in the country to each participating business—delivering an assurance to employees and customers that only SERVPRO can provide. Once the location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, participants will gain access to on propriety signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that they’ve selected a higher standard of clean to help protect employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, guests will know exactly when the facility had been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Why a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) is an Advantage

9/23/2021 (Permalink)

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever could happen?”

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster.

SERVPRO is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

  • A no cost assessment of your facility.
    This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
     
  • A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
    It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
     
  • A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
    This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
     
  • Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
    You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
     
  • Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
    This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
     
  • Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
    Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Tips to Prevent a House Fire

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Aftermath of a kitchen fire.  Picture shows stove created damage to walls behind and above A stove fire caused damage to a home kitchen

When it comes to fire safety it is always better to be prepared.  However what is even better is if you can prevent it from happening to you and your loved ones.  Below are a few tips in preventing a house fire and to keep you safe.  If you do find yourself the victim of a house fire, small or large, SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties are available 24/7 to help with the aftermath in cleaning and restoring your home and belongings.  We will take care of any items damaged by fire or smoke, and even be able to restore any soot damage done to the interior of the home, making it seem like “it never even happened.”

To help keep your loved ones safe here are 7 tips in preventing a house fire

  1. Test your alarms.  It is recommended to check your alarms once a month by pushing the test button. You should also replace any smoke alarms that are over 10 years old, or if they don’t make a sound when tested.  Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home (including the basement if applicable). 
  2. Identify fire hazards in your home.  Common kitchen appliances are often times the source of fires.  Items such as the oven, microwave, toaster, or dishwasher should only be turned on when someone is present in the home.  Other items such as a hair straightener, curling iron, electric blanket, and space heater should be used with caution as well.  Never leave an appliance like these on when not home.
  3. Understand your home electrical system.  If you’re buying or remodeling your home, it’s important to have the electrical work inspected by a professional. After that, look out for exposed wires and frayed cords. Also, if you ever have frequent problems with your circuit breakers, a tingling feeling when you touch an appliance, discolored or warm wall outlets, flickering or dimming lights, or sparks from an outlet, call an electrician immediately.
  4. Inspect your heat sources. Every year have a professional service your furnace. He or she will be able to identify if it isn’t working properly, which could prevent a fire. Using a space heater for even more warmth? Keep it away from items that could catch fire easily, like curtains and furniture. If you have a wood-burning fireplace, have your chimney inspected annually by someone who is certified in chimney sweeping.
  5. Prevent kitchen catastrophes. Find out what you can do to prevent fires in the first place (like cleaning crumbs out of the toaster and unplugging appliances when they aren’t in use). And, what to do if there actually is a kitchen fire.
  6. Safely store combustible materials. Flammable products should always be kept away from heat. Designate a cool, dark cupboard or storage space for hairspray, and cleaning and garden supplies. Additionally, gasoline, kerosene and propane should be kept outside in the original containers.
  7. Practice candle safety. More than just extinguishing the candle before you leave the house, make sure the wick is trimmed to ¼ inch in order to prevent a big flame.  Additionally, keep away from flammable materials, pets, never leave the room where the candle is burning, and make sure to extinguish around 4 hours of use.

Water Damage In Your Home Requires Quality Restoration

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

kitchen area is closed off showing dehumidifiers to aid in water damage recovery A refrigerator leak caused the floors to be water damaged. Our team will professionally section off and dry your floors to treat water damage

Many time things such as leaking pipes, burst sewer lines, and natural disasters can leave your home severely water damaged.  If your property is affected by water damage it is critical to identify the cause and act quickly to avoid further destruction.  Sometimes that water damage can occur from everyday appliances like a refrigerator or dishwasher.  Refrigerators often leak for a number of reasons but can cause serious damage to your kitchen flooring.  When and if that happens, SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is available to help 24/7. 

Facing a water leak can be a very tedious task for a homeowner.  First the water would need the be soaked up as much as possible.  Then, any furniture or household items affected would need to be moved to a dry location.  Everything then needs to be dried out or thrown away depending on its condition.  SERVPRO is here to facilitate these tasks for you, all the while ensuring that water does not get an opportunity to penetrate your subfloor, damage floor covering such as linoleum, tile, or wood floor.  SERVPRO will also check carpeting, rugs, appliances, cabinetry, or any other area that requires water removal.  In addition, SERVPRO will also bring in water extractors, air movers and dehumidifiers and close off the area that is affected in order to efficiently remove and dry your water damaged areas. 

Our SERVPRO team is expertly trained and fully IIRC-industry certified to handle any restoration service necessary to return your home to its pre-water damaged state.  Qualified technicians will spend the time removing the water, as well as applying cleaning, drying and restoration techniques specific to your home or business, with the goal of ensuring a successful recover of property and structure.

Managing Mold in a Commercial Space

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Mold shown on ceiling in building Mold formed on ceilings and walls in Commercial Building

When SERVPRO responds to a call we will initially ask a few questions to assess the type of equipment needed and how extensive the damage is.  When mold remediation is needed there are a number of factors to consider in order to properly clean and restore the space to its previous state. Upon arrival, a technician will conduct a visual inspection finding the source of the mold and make sure the remediation efforts focus on clearing out any existing mold and reduce the risk of returning mold.  In this case a commercial building sat empty for a number of months due to a previous business closing.  When the new tenants were interested in buying the building, they discovered mold had grown on many of the surfaces inside.  Eliminating the mold is the goal but can become difficult as its spores will regrow if humidity is above 60%.  The spores easily spread on interior surfaces such as walls and ceilings.  SERVPRO will help remove the mold infection without sacrificing possessions or structure.  The focus will be on removing the mold itself rather than the items it grows on in order to restore the space.

SERVPRO will remove any visible signs of mold growth using a number of cleaning products as well as individually restoring any items in designated clean rooms.  With all external signs of mold removed, the restoration process can begin.  An antimicrobial base coat paint can be used to repaint any wall or ceilings that have been affected and prevent the mold from returning.  Air scrubbers with HEPA filters will also be placed in the areas to remove the spores from the air.  Deodorization is also carried out to leave the space smelling fresh and above all mold free.

If you are looking for a service that focuses on removal and prevention, call SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties at (803)-475-7500 and we will help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Garage Fire caused by Golf Cart

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

Golf cart in garage with fire damage. behind is more fire damage caused by golf cart charging Golf Cart sparked a fire in the garage of local home

Recently, SERVPRO responded to a residential house fire in the area that was started by a golf cart.  The initial fire started in the garage of the home where the golf cart was charging.  SERVPRO was able to respond to the call in a timely manner and assess and repair damage done to the home’s garage as well as interior.  In this particular case the fire caused structural damage to the garage, but SERVPRO was also called in to clean the interior as well where soot from the fire had spread. 

Golf cart owners may not realize it, but their golf carts can be a hazard if they are charging them inside a garage.  This is due to the batteries in the cart, particularly older ones that emit hydrogen, an odorless, colorless gas that is highly flammable.  When hydrogen levels reach 4-7%, it becomes explosive.  Periodically the battery needs to be filled with distilled water in order to prevent hydrogen gas from forming and create the conditions for an explosion or fire.  With hydrogen present, anything in the garage such as the door switch or garage light can create a spark to fuel an explosion. 

Below are some tips to prevent golf cart fires:

  • Read and follow all instructions/warnings from the manufacturer
  • Only use the electrical cords and battery charger designated for the golf cart
  • Charge in an open, ventilated area
  • Regularly check for damage to and/or leaks in the battery
  • Set up a timer that controls when the battery is charged and disconnect
  • Make sure a smoke and carbon monoxide detector is installed in the home

Multi Level Commercial Property Water Damage Started on The Top Floor

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technician on a ladder in the kitchen repairing the water damaged ceiling In a multi story commercial property water from the top floor damaged the lower levels.

Without a doubt a fire has its own level of devastation, add to that the amount of water used throughout.  Now add the sitting water which has the potential to become a mold issue.  

Once a fire has started and the fire department has arrived, the situation becomes a fire, water job for SERVPRO. There are many factors that can delay the cleanup of a fire, water job.  The goal at SERVPRO is to respond within an hour of receiving the call.   Once the fire scene has been turned over to SERVPRO we begin the cleanup process for the fire, and water, and if needed, perform a mold remediation.

Our SERVPRO Technicians will first explain to the property owner the steps that need to be taken for the cleanup to be properly performed. SERVPRO will begin a Water Mitigation and will also begin to remove wet or damaged contents.  Once all the water is removed the drying process begins.  Depending on how much water, will determine the length of drying time.  Usually, it is a three day process with the moistures levels being monitored daily. 

At SERVPRO we want you back to “Like it never even happened.”

Lightening Strike Causes Fire Damage into the Crawlspace

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Crawlspace with heavy fire damage from a lightning stike A lightning strike can carry itself from the top of the house clear to the basement, or crawlspace.

SERVPRO Responds to a Fire Damaged Home from a lightning strike during a storm in Lancaster South Carolina Caused by Storm That Rolled Through.  The evening was filled with high winds, rain, and heavy rounds of lightning strikes. Any one of these elements can cause major damage to a home or business.  A tree falling on a home or business can bring the rains into the home, or business causing water damage, and as we see in the south, lightning strikes are an unfortunate part of a storm rolling through.  With a lightning strike on a home or business the level of the incident suddenly moves to a whole new level.  You now have lightning damage, which includes fire damage, and water damage.  Bottom line, it is quite overwhelming to process how one lightning strike can cause so much damage. 

SERVPRO specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response Time with Crews Ready 24/7/365

We are locally owned and operated enabling us to respond quicker with the proper resources tailored to fit your circumstances, which is extremely important.  A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

SERVPRO Has the Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit SERVPRO can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

We want you back to “Like it never even happened.”

Emergency Ready Plan Helps Camden Business When There Was Water Damage Over Night

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Hallway that is in the process of a water mitigation due to flooding It is important to have your hot water heater on your maintenance schedule to help avoid water damage.

My smile quickly vanished as I stepped into a flooded foyer looking more like a wading pool from all the water.  My mind is racing as I frantically search for the source of the water that has so graciously made itself into far more than a wading pool.  From the front door clear to the back door the water ripples with each step I take.  The normally quiet morning is filled with an unusual sound of water, and to my already pumping with adrenaline being, I find the water source upon opening the door to the hot water heater.  Like a dam just turned loose, the water rushed out of the closet. For a fleeting moment I had the thought of a dam affected by a flood as the water spewed out over and around my feet and legs giving the illusion of trees caught in its path.   

Shifting gears, I grabbed my iPhone and tapped on the ERP ICON. The ERP ICON represents EARLY READY PROGRAM that is offered and provided by SERVPRO. I was immediately able to click on the EMERGENCY WATER SHUTOFF NUMBER provided by SERVPRO in our companies EMERGENCY READY PROFILE.  Water shutoff issue handled, I next located the plumber’s number, also provided by SERVPRO in our EMERGENCY READY PROFILE. Next, I contacted SERVPRO who immediately helped to sooth my panic, and stress, as they are dispatching out a SERVPRO CERTIFIED WATER MITIGATION CREW as we spoke.

Over the next few days SERVPRO was a much-appreciated presence in our office as they moved our CONTENTS, performed WATER MITIGATION, and DAILY MONITORING in the affected areas.  SERVPRO was patient and explained the entire process each step of the way.  Once the DRYING was completed, I watched in astonishment as each article of our contents was meticulously replaced to their original locations.

Reflecting back on there were many factors that contributed to how that day started, and how it ended.  I find great satisfaction in knowing that the main positive influential factor was and will remain SERVPRO.

At SERVPRO we want you back to “Like it never even happened.”

Freezing Weather Can Lead to Frozen Pipes

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen water pipe It's important to winterize the water lines in your home or business to prevent a frozen water line

With winter here, and the temperatures dropping, we are already beginning to see, and hear about frozen pipes, which lead to water damage. Frozen water pipes are a reoccurring issue which occurs once the temperatures drop below freezing. Statistically it is proven that frozen pipes are one of the biggest risks of property damage when the temperature drops. This is more prevalent in regions where the temperature can significantly drop. Lower temperatures can cause the water to expand, which puts pressure on the pipes, or storage container, causing the pipe to break, or container to burst. Once there is a compromise to the water system, or storage unit the ensuing water can cause water damage, and potentially turn into an emergency.

First the home or business with the water damage must quickly be evaluated for the safety of anyone in the home, or business. Be sure there is nothing electric in, or around the water damage to cause either an electrical fire, or electrocution. Make sure there are no ‘slip and fall’ hazards. If it is not safe, keep out and dial 911 for help. Once all is secure regarding safety precautions, shut off the water if you can. 

Call SERVPRO for water damage to your home, or business. At SERVPRO we want to get you back to “Like it never even happened.”

Keep An Eye Out For Our Lil' Marketing Car in Kershaw and Lancaster Counties

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Our Kia Soul SERVPRO green marketing car At SERVPRO we love our community and look forward to visiting with customers

Throughout your day you might be afforded the opportunity to pass by one of our SERVPRO vehicles.  While there are several vehicles, and each suited to provide services for either Water, Fire, Mold, Cleaning, or Trauma, it is the smallest in the SERVPRO vehicle pool that is far from what you would call a ghost. Kerri Rice is our Marketing Manager and enjoys visiting customers throughout the day.

This Lil' SERVPRO vehicle loves to visit businesses and homes sharing the latest SERVPRO news, and how SERVPRO can be of assistance whether it be caused by water, fire, mold, or your needing cleaning in your home or business.

So, if you’re out and about and run across our Lil' SERVPRO vehicle don't forget to wave or stop and say 'Hi".

Safe travels!  We look forward to seeing you!

SERVPRO Is Here To Help When Your Water Line Breaks

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

Know what to do in the event of a broken water line, and call SERVPRO

Frozen water pipes are a reoccurring issue which occurs once the temperatures drop below freezing. Statistically it is proven that frozen pipes are one of the biggest risks of property damage when the temperature drops. This is more prevalent in regions where the temperature can significantly drop. Lower temperatures can cause the water to expand, which puts pressure on the pipes, or storage container, causing the pipe to break, or container to burst. Once there is a compromise to the water system, or storage unit the ensuing water can cause water damage, and potentially turn into an emergency.

First the home or business with the water damage must quickly be evaluated for the safety of anyone in the home, or business. Be sure there is nothing electric in, or around the water damage to cause either an electrical fire, or electrocution. Make sure there are no ‘slip and fall’ hazards. If it is not safe, keep out and dial 911 for help. Once all is secure regarding safety precautions, shut off the water if you can. 

Call SERVPRO for water damage to your home, or business. We want to get you back to “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO If You Find Water In Your Crawlspace

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

It is important to routinely check under your crawlspace and make sure there are not issues needing to be addressed

Unbeknownst to you, your toilet has been leaking water under the base of the toilet which has leaked into the subflooring, and into the crawlspace. While this could be an issue that has been taking place over a long period of time, or a water leak that just transpired, your need to address the water leak, and potential for mold needs to be addressed. And we all know too well how important it is to have a fully functioning bathroom.

One call to SERVPRO had the crew at the customers home in less than an hour, and we were on our way to resolving the water leak with Water Mitigation, and Mold Remediation.

The homeowner was incredibly happy that we performed a Mold Remediation as he did not realize the potential for mold after having water damage.

Another customer is now back to their space looking “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO and Middle of the Night Water Damage-We Are One Call Away

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

It's far more cost effective to keep your water lines on a regular maintenance schedule, but if they fail, call SERVPRO. SERVPRO is Here to Help.

Getting out of bed the last thing you expect is to find yourself stepping into water instead of your once dry floor. Out of instinct you immediately head into the bathroom where you discover the entire floor covered in water. Finding water spilling out of your bathroom is never a fun find. But it is important to get the water shut off, and search for what caused all the water. After inspecting all the water lines, you discover the water supply line to the toilet has failed. The cost of the braided water line to the toilet is less than $10.00 and takes less than fifteen minutes to replace. A call to SERVPRO had a Water Mitigation Team onsite in less than an hour.

With the excess standing water removed SERVPRO strategically places the equipment to begin the drying process. Depending on the type of flooring and how sever the water damage will determine whether the flooring will have to be removed. Moisture meters will be used daily to ensure complete dryness throughout the water damaged areas. SERVPRO is your number one resource in times of disaster no matter how big, or small.

SERVPRO wants you back to "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Enjoys Working With Food For The Soul to Help the Community

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

Watch for SERVPRO food donation boxes throughout the community. Lets help to feed our community.

At SERVPRO we enjoy being part of a great community, and we have an outlook that is more of family, helping family.  If you know of someone in need, please feel free to contact us that we might be of assistance in providing resources. Watch for SERVPRO food donation boxes located throughout the community.

The mission of Food for the Soul is to serve as a Christ-like ministry to meet the basic needs of the hungry and homeless in Kershaw county

Large cans of food!  Fresh vegetables, fruit, and meats!  Large bags of rice, pastas, grits, sugar, flour!  Large containers of coffee and creamer! Warm weather coats, gloves, hats, sleepwear!  Detergent and cleaning supplies!  Toilet paper and paper towels!!  And of course, monetary donations are always needed to keep the power on!

EMERGENCY SERVICES – COLD WEATHER SERVICES

Food for The Soul offers overnight sheltering 7 days a week. Our overnight services are provided for victims of domestic violence, flood, fire, those that have been evicted and have nowhere else to go, and those that are chronically homeless.

The hours are from 7 pm- 7 am. Identification is needed. An initial intake must be completed.

A light evening meal is provided. Clean clothing will be given for sleepwear and showers will be provided along with hygiene products. A clean cot and all bedding will be supplied. Coffee will be provided in the morning, and guests can return at 9am for breakfast.

FOOD SERVICES

Hot meals are served Tuesday – Friday 12pm – 1pm.  A light breakfast is also available those days.  Emergency Shelter guests receive a simple, hot meal at 7:30pm

Large Office Arrives on Monday to Water Damage

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

If your business is unattended for the weekend and holidays it is important to check all of your water lines before locking up.

Most offices are closed on weekends, and holidays.  Either there is a maintenance service, or a designated janitor who generally will come after hours during the week, or for a larger facility will provide janitorial duties throughout the day.  Once the building is locked, for all practical purposes the doors will remain unlocked until the next workday.  It is an unfortunate situation, but it does happen.  The first to arrive at the office will generally be the first to discover any mishap that happened over the weekend.

Arriving at the office on a Monday morning it was discovered that a pipe had failed over the weekend causing water to flow from the breakroom, and into the hallway and adjoining offices.  While the water continued to flow there was a scramble to locate where the water was coming from.  The water was shut off, and a call to SERVPRO followed.  In less than an hour SERVPRO had a crew out, and the Water Mitigation process began.  Once the Water Mitigation was complete a Mold Remediation was performed to avoid any future mold issues.

At SERVPRO we understand the importance of getting you back to “Like it never even happened.”

A Storm Can Affect Your HVAC and Ducts SERVPRO is Here to Help

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

It is important to keep your HVAC and Ducts cleaned. Adverse weather conditions can affect your system.

Once a hurricane rolls through, the need for a duct cleaning in homes, and businesses becomes apparent. Water, and debris can compromise the integrity of your HVAC systems. All too often when dusting the home, or business only to walk back in the room an hour later and find a coating of dust once again has come to rest where you just dusted. Or you wonder why the heating and/or air conditioning unit seems to be running for longer periods of time.  You change the filters as required, but without realizing it, you have neglected to clean your ducts which run the air throughout the system in your workplace, or home. Keeping your HVAC system cleaned. on a regular maintenance schedule can also help reduce the chances of a fire.

While we are experiencing some very adverse weather conditions out there, making it time to schedule a cleaning for your Air Ducts and HVAC system.  SERVPRO is scheduling appointments now.  Call today to schedule your Air Ducts and HVAC system cleaning.

SERVPRO is here to help with your needs. We want to get you back to “Like it never even happened.”

At SERVPRO We Understand the Importance of Getting You Back "Like it never even happened."

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO understands that your business and the documents within need to get back to "Like it never even happened."

During Hurricane Season there is a certain level of anxiety that blankets the community.  The need to keep plenty of food available, and ask questions like: Is there enough water? Do we have resources if we lose power?  There is the constant watching of what direction the storm is headed.  As can happen, the storm took an unpredicted turn and headed directly into Bennetsville, South Carolina.  Being a historical community where the older buildings are utilized for daily business activities, SERVPRO received a call reporting water damage to a business.  We were able to stop further water damage and begin the dry-out process.  Due to the water damage to documents, we did a pack-out of the documents, and utilized our Document Restoration Division.  Due to the multiple levels of the business, many floors were affected.  While the damage seemed quite overwhelming, SERVPRO was able to get the business back to “Like it never even happened.”

Many Fires Are Caused Each Year From Improper Use of a Space Heaer

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

Putting a space heater next to your bed is dangerous as your blankets, clothing, or mattress could ignite.

In the winter time the rural communities will utilize portable space heaters, wood stoves, and kerosene heaters. Unfortunately, it is a common risk taken without the complete understanding of the fire potential should any of these be used improperly. With a fire, comes water used to put out the fire. Without proper cleanup from the fire and water, comes the potential of mold.

Below are some winter safety tips, and general fire prevention tips to help keep you, your families, and homes safe.

Space heaters need space---keep furniture and objects away.

Electric space heaters must be plugged directly into a wall outlet---NOT AN EXTENSION CORD.

Appliances must be plugged directly into the wall outlet, not an extension cord to avoid the potential of an electrical fire.

NEVER use gasoline in kerosene heaters, or camp stove oil units.

NEVER fill a heating unit when hot.

If you do have a fire SERVPRO is Here To Help. We want to get you back to "Like it never even happened."

When a Storm Strikes Your Home or Business SERVPRO is Here To Help

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

Water can invade a lower level when there is high amounts of water produced from a storm.

SERVPRO Responds to water damaged homes and businesses when significant amounts of wind and rain have caused damage. How does one truly prepare their home for the high rising water knowing the water damage will be horrific? One can only pack up the family, what is of importance and pray upon returning home the water damage is less than expected. Once the area is considered passable you return to your home, or business to find the water has damaged your property, and contents. 

SERVPRO specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response Time with Crews Ready 24/7/365

We are locally owned and operated enabling us to respond quicker with the proper resources tailored to fit your circumstances, which is extremely important.  A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

SERVPRO Offers 24/7/365 Fast Response Time

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, your call to SERVPRO will get you back to "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO responded to a water damaged home caused by storms that produced water levels that invaded the home, and property.  We all knew the storm was coming, but preparations fell short when it came to the full gravity of the situation. 

SERVPRO specialized in storm, and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained, and we are prepared to get you back to a pre-storm condition. 

SERVPRO has a faster response time with crews ready 24/7/365.

We are locally owned and operated enabling us to respond quicker with the proper resources tailored to fit your circumstances, which is extremely important.  A fast response lessens the damage, and limits further damage, which also reduces the restoration cost. 

SERVPRO is nationally recognized as number one in the restoration industry, for local commercial, and residential situations.  SERVPRO is also universally recognized for our National Disaster Teams.

We are HERE TO HELP.  We want to get you back to “Like it never even happened.”

Quarantine Has Taken a Toll on Carpets

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Staying home has taken its own toll on carpets throughout the home.

We are all aware of the many life changes, and sacrifices made over the last several months.  Some are back to work, while others remain working from home, or striving to homeschool to not fall far behind.  Staying home has caused a greater wear and tear on the furniture, flooring, and carpets. Just today I saw a picture of a toddler who was found behind a chair sitting on the carpet putting her milkshake all over herself, and the carpet.  Yes, it was cute, and yes, I had to chuckle, but what a sticky mess. At SERVPRO our Professional Carpet Cleaners are certified in the proper cleaning techniques that will help remove stains, and odors.  Our drying process is top of the line ensuring a drying process that will not leave you with wet carpets. 

Call SERVPRO today to schedule your carpet cleaning.  We want to get you back to “Like it never even happened.”

A Hurricane Causes Major Water Damage to Multilevel Building in Bennetsville South Carolina

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

During a hurricane a multilevel building roof fails causing major water damage to a significant amount of files.

When a hurricane is predicted there is generally an idea as to which course the hurricane will travel.  Depending on the expected velocity of the storm, that will dictate the type of property protection people will provide for their home or business.  When a multilevel downtown office building in Bennettsville had their roof fail during a hurricane, water affected every level of the building.  There were rows, and rows of file cabinets that held important documents which needed to be addressed as quickly as possible to save the valuable information they contained.  SERVPRO immediately responded with a full crew to start removing the contents of the file cabinets and packing them into boxes.  Every box was clearly marked, and inventoried.  Once everything had been properly handled, the boxes were loaded up into a truck and dispatched to SERVPRO’S Document Restoration Department.

Call SERVPRO for your Document Restoration needs. We want to get you back to “Like it never even happened.”

New Construction is surprised with water damage

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

Even a new water or sewer line can back up causing water damage

When new construction begins for a multi-family community, the community is excited to see what they have to offer.  It is a competitive market, and the need for being the nicest, and offering the best immensities becomes quite important to anyone interested in becoming a part of the new community.  During construction there are many phases to the project planning, and while the project planner would prefer everything go according to the planned timeline, this is not always the case.  A situation can arise at any time during the building phase.  With no one occupying the community homes yet, it would, and does come as a big surprise when the crew arrived to find that a sewer line had backed up over night causing water damage to one main building. 

One call to SERVPRO had the crew onsite in less than an hour, and the water mitigation process began.  The contractor was extremely happy with the quick and professional way SERVPRO handled their situation.  At SERVPRO we were happy to get them back to “Like it never even happened.”

Mold Can Cause Health Effects in Your Home or Business

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

Checking in a crawlspace for mold it is found that the heat duct was not completely sealed causing mold

There are many ways one can be introduced to mold in a home or business. Whether you're working, residing, buying, or selling it is important to be aware of any mold issues which can affect the health of your family, or employees. It sounds scary, and can be scary, and not to mention it can also have a foul smell.  Mold is silent most of the time, and health effects can arise without you even realizing it is the mold causing the health effects.

At SERVPRO our certified technicians are ready to help resolve your mold issues once it is determined it is indeed mold, and what was the initial cause.  We utilize wall barriers to keep the mold confined to the affected area.  Our goal is to get you back to the comfort of your home, or business “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO is your resource for Mold Remediation.

With a Structure Fire You Will Also Have Water Damage

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

With Fire Damage comes Water Damage, and Soot throughout the structure.

Once a fire has started and the fire department has arrived, the situation becomes a fire, water job for SERVPRO. There are many factors that can delay the cleanup of a fire, water job. The goal at SERVPRO is to respond within an hour of receiving the call. Once the fire scene has been turned over to SERVPRO we begin the cleanup process for the fire, and water damage which will include the removal of damaged debris. Damaged debris can include but not limited to construction building materials, and personal items belonging to the homeowner, or business. SERVPRO has a contents crew that thoroughly goes through each piece of property, and documents whether it is a loss, or in need of being restored, or cleaned.

A fire has its own level of devastation, add to that the amount of water used to put out the fire. Should the water be left standing there is a high potential for mold to begin growing. At SERVPRO our goal is to get you back to “Like it never even happened.”

Evening Thunderstorm Brings Severe Lightning Strikes Causing Heavy Damage to a Home in Lancaster South Carolina

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Afternoon showers turn into heavy thunderstorms leaving a home heavily damaged

It is not uncommon for afternoon showers to roll through South Carolina.  Sometimes these showers can produce a severe thunderstorm causing damage to homes, and businesses.  One evening the storm seemed to have taken on a severity that seemed to shake the house with every lightning strike.  This night the family was enjoying a family evening together.  Without any warning as is usually the case when lightning strikes, the sound was deafening as the strike had hit the roof, and traveled through the upstairs bathroom, and caused the wiring to catch fire.  The family was able to safely get out of the home, and while they huddled together, they watched the firemen extinguish the blazing fire in their home. 

SERVPRO was contacted to provide a Board up to protect the home from further rain damage to the interior and keep curiosity seekers out.  As a locally owned business SERVPRO is able to respond quicker with the proper resources that pertain to your situation.  A fast response lessens the damage and reduces the restoration cost. 

At SERVPRO we want to get your back to “Like it never even happened.”

Storm Knocks Down Pine Tree Which Hit Power Line Causing Fire

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

It wasn't a typical storm that caused a pine tree to fall on the power to the house causing a fire

Evening thunderstorms are frequently experienced in Kershaw, and Lancaster Counties.  So it makes sense that as you settle down for a quiet evening, that the thunder and lightning that are wreaking havoc outside tend to cause the television to get turned up, and life moves at its usual pace. As our evening progressed so did the storm so it was not too surprising when we lost power.  What was surprising was the smoke that began to fill the inside of the house.  We frantically checked each room and found no flames, what we did find was smoke coming out of the heating and air system vents. Further investigation found that a pine tree had fallen hitting our power lines, which then shorted out the electricity to the house, thus causing a fire which began in the crawlspace.

Once the fire department had left, we made a call to SERVPRO who immediately responded. The SERVPRO Crew Chief went over the required steps they would take to get us back to “Like it never even happened.”  The burned debris was removed, which included SERVPRO hauling off the debris.  The crawlspace, and the interior of the house had the soot removed, and the smoke odor was removed as well.  There is great satisfaction in hearing the customer say how happy they are with the services provided by SERVPRO.

Stove Fires on the Rise Due to Distractions in the Home or Office

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Stove fires are statistically on the rise due to distractions around the home, or office

SERVPRO has been called several times for kitchen fires that could have been avoided had the source been attended. It is so easy to set a pot on the stove only to leave the kitchen and get sidetracked with yet another distraction. In the blink of an eye your home can be enveloped by fire. You could be displaced from your home, belongs lost, treasured pictures, memories in the form of heirlooms, and daily needed articles damaged, or permanently destroyed. And yes, if we are going to be real here, the ultimate loss would be loss of life. SERVPRO cares, and to help you avoid a kitchen fire, I have listed below key elements that are fire-related hazards in a kitchen. Happy and safe cooking from all of us at SERVPRO. Fire-related hazards in a kitchen include: Flames, sparks, and hot gases from food preparation that can ignite residues in exhaust ducts. Food preparation equipment left without supervision during operation. Failure to switch-off equipment, especially at the end of an activity. Overheated oils that can lead to spontaneous combustion. Food preparation equipment based on solid fuels. Gas blowtorches used for browning some foods. Poorly operating thermostats or lack of thermostat or fault-detecting equipment. Faulty or overheating electrical equipment. Metal exhaust flues that conduct heat and ignite nearby material or debris. Ovens without igniters/pilot lights (lit with burning pieces of paper).

Homeowner Returns Home to Find Water Damage Caused by a Failed Water Line

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Failed toilet water line caused major water damage

Arriving home from work you discover flooring inside the house is covered with water.  Searching for the cause you find the water line in the toilet in the hall bathroom is spraying water everywhere.  The first thing to do is shut off the water supply to the toilet, the second thing to do is call SERVPRO.  SERVPRO had a Water Mitigation team onsite in less than an hour.

After removing the standing water SERVPRO strategically placed drying equipment which helps to obtain a complete dry out. Depending on the type of flooring, and how sever the water damage will determine whether the flooring will have to be removed, and whether there will be removal of the walls.  Moisture meters will be used daily to ensure complete dryness throughout the water damaged areas.

It is important to have a regular maintenance schedule for checking water lines. The cost of the braided water line used for the toilet is less than $10.00 and takes less than fifteen minutes to replace. 

SERVPRO is your number one resource in times of disaster, no matter how large, or small the job.  We want to get you back to “Like it never even happened.”

Lugoff Business Sprinkler System Fails Causing Heavy Water Damage

8/6/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Sprinkler activate due to high heat causing heavy water damage

SERVPRO responds to a Water Damage call at a business in Lugoff South Carolina.  Upon arrival it was determined by the fire department that the fire sprinklers had all activated due to the high heat in the attic space where the water lines were run.  Once the water source had been deactivated SERVPRO set up and began the task of extracting the water, and removing the debris caused by the water.  Ceilings had dropped, insulation heavily saturated with water now lay on the floor throughout the building. The floors were all covered in a pool of water.  Due to the nature of the cause of loss, the lower four feet of the drywall's had to be removed.  Drywall acts as a wick, and to prevent a future mold potential it is critical that all the wet drywall be removed.  Once the water, insulation, and drywall debris is removed the drying process begins.  SERVPRO will monitor daily until the facility is completely dry. After a complete dry out SERVPRO will perform a Mold Remediation to prevent mold growth.

SERVPRO understands the importance of getting you back to “Like it never even happened.”

Got Mold? Call SERVPRO For Removal of Your Mold

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

To avoid further issues mold should be addressed as early as possible

These days to just hear the word mold is enough to make one listen to see how it might affect them.  It seems all too often calls come in regarding either the smell, or what appears to be a presence of mold.  Yes, it sounds scary, it looks scary, and it smells yucky.  Mold can cause health effects without one even realizing that it is the mold causing the problem.

At SERVPRO our certified technicians are ready to help resolve your mold issues once it is determined that it is indeed mold, and what the cause of the mold is in the first place.  We use an anti-microbial to clean up the mold.  Our goal is to get you back to the comfort of home “Like it never even happened.” 

A Dirty HVAC Can Leave Dust and Allergens in the Air

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Keeping your HVAC Ducts clean will provided a cleaner, and healthier work, or home environment

All too often when dusting your home, or business, you walk back in the room an hour later and find a coating of dust once again has come to rest where you just dusted.  Or you wonder why the hearing and/or air conditioning unit seems to be running for longer periods of time.  You change the filters as required, but without realizing it, you have neglected to clean your air ducts which run the air throughout the system in your home, or business.  Keeping your HVAC system cleaned on a regular maintenance schedule can also help reduce the chances of a fire. Since your heating and air is throughout your home, or business, the air can contain allergens, pet dander, and dust particles. Keeping your ducts cleaned on a regular basis will help keep your air cleaner and provided a healthier environment.

Call today to schedule your DUCT CLEANING. We want to get you back to “Like it never even happened.”

A Fire Can Affect your Home or Business and SERVPRO is Prepared to Help

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is prepared to assist with when fire damage affects your home or business.

Without a doubt a fire has its own level of devastation, add to that the amount of water used to extinguish the blaze.  Now add all the water that has accumulated during the process, and you now have water damage on top of the fire damage, and potentially if not handled in a timely fashion there is the potential for mold as well.

Once the property has been released by the fire department, SERVPRO will begin the cleanup process. Depending on the time of the incident will determine whether a Board-Up is needed.  A Board-Up will help protect the property and keep the curious out.  The contents will be addressed, each listed on a Salvage, or Non-Salvageable List.  Fire can affect the integrity of glass, plastics, and fabrics. For the business, or homeowner this can all be rather overwhelming, and we understand.  Our SERVPRO Crew Chief is available to explain the process, answer your questions, and works directly with your Insurance Adjuster. 

At SERVPRO we want you back to “Like it never even happened.”

Emergency Ready Profile Makes a Difference When the Unplanned Happens

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

Emergency Ready Profile will expedite the time factor in the event of an emergency.

There is no easy way to describe trauma whether it is accidental, or intentional.  A call came in one morning and the caller was to say the least very distraught, bewildered, and her raw emotion was heartbreaking.  She manages one of the larger apartment communities in Camden, South Carolina, and overnight there was an incident at one of the units that began on the second floor and came to an end on the first floor.  While it is a call no one wants to make, or take, it is an unfortunate reality.  

My first response was to assure her that it’s going to be OK, that we can handle everything once the unit was released into her custody.  While I had her on the phone, I pulled up their Emergency Ready Plan which allowed me to have a visual on which building required the trauma cleanup.  I assured her that our trained technicians would be in route to her shortly.  Suddenly, she let out a sigh and said, 'thank you so much, I feel better already just talking with you'.

Our technicians were dispatched once I had provided the information regarding the required access entrance, and where to park which I had obtained when I did their Emergence Ready Profile.  The compassion, the response time, the Emergency Ready Plan, were all key in making it "Like it never even happened." 

Lightning Strikes Tree Down Causing it to Land in The Living Room

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

Lightening struck the tree which was just tall enough to land in the living room

SERVPRO receives calls that vary from wind damage to water damage when heavy winds, and rain roll through.

Watching your favorite TV show one moment and staring through the leaves of the tree that an hour ago was looking nice right in your front yard.

Not sure what has you more frozen the sound of a loud roaring train that preceded the crash on your home, or the actual tree in your home.

Regardless, it’s a feeling that hangs on as you call SERVPRO to handle the situation. While the situation of a tree in your home is new to you, here at SERVPRO we are familiar with a call that results from a tree falling on a home or business.

24/7/365 SERVPRO is here to meet your needs.

We want you back "Like it never even happened."

A Severe storm brings heavy rains causing a church to flood.

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

A hallway is affected by the heavy rains that brought the flood waters into the church.

As we listened to the weatherman describe the severity of the storms, most let it float from one ear to the other. It was as they said, a severe storm that started in the Gulf Coast, and hitting the south before its path to the upper states. Our little neck in the woods left us finding many struggling to deal with the water that was quickly rising. First Baptist Church called SERVPRO, and SERVPRO was on site in a short amount of time. The building is four thousand square feet that was literally invaded by water, that knows few closed doors. SERVPRO came in and immediately began a Water Mitigation to remove the water, and then performed a Mold Remediation which helps to alleviate the potential for mold. SERVPRO is a leader in the restoration industry and available 24/7/365We want you back "Like it never even happened."

Summer Thunderstorm Causes Lightning to Strike a Home

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

Lightening struck a home causing heavy fire damage to the attic and home

A family relaxing at home one evening as a heavy thunderstorm rolled through were more than startled to hear a horrific crash above them.  Lightning had hit the roof and into the attic hitting the HVAC System. What ensued was a fire that spread throughout the attic, and into the home. There was extensive fire damage, smoke damage, and water damage.

SERVPRO provided a board up to protect the home from further outside elements.  With the cleanup process there are proper steps to take in order to make it "Like it never even happened." 

While an unfortunate situation, SERVPRO performed a Content Pack Out, Water Mitigation, Fire Damage, Smoke Damage, and Mold Remediation that had the customer saying how fortunate he was to have called SERVPRO who was definitely #HereToHelp. 

We want to get you back to "Like it never even happened."

Failed Water Line for Washing Machine Causes Water Damage

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

Air dryers help to dry the area once the water has been extracted in the laundry room

Unbeknownst to you, your wash machine has leaked water under the wash machine, and the water has seeped under the linoleum.  While this could be an issue that has been taking place over a long period of time, or a water leak that just transpired, your need to address the water leak, and potential for mold needs to be addressed. And we all know too well how important it is to have a fully functioning laundry room.

One call to SERVPRO had the crew at the customers home in less than an hour, and we were on our way to resolving the water leak with Water Mitigation, and Mold Remediation.

The home owner was very happy that we performed a Mold Remediation as he didn't realize the potential for mold after having water damage.

Understanding the Importance of Keeping Hydrated

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

While the sky can be stunning it can also be dangerous to your health if you don't keep hydrated

So scientifically and medically there is an explanation as to why the humidity makes the heat so much harder on the body. Our body has its own cooling system, which works by producing perspiration or sweat. When sweat or perspiration evaporates it gives the skin the cooling effect. We know that hot weather can tax the body, but did you know that High Humidity causes our physical cooling system to strain as the humidity makes it harder for the sweat to evaporate. Extreme Heat causes many to lose their lives each year. There is risk for each of us if not hydrating properly, but those at the highest risk are the young, sick, old and overweight.

There are many illnesses in conjunction with Extreme Heat.  HEAT STROKE is caused by the body’s own air conditioning unit when it stops working. HEAT CRAMPS are muscle spasms that usually involve the legs and abdomen. This is the direct result of dehydration and can be the first sign someone is getting dangerously hot. HEAT EXHAUSTION is very serious, and more serious than cramps. The skin will be cold and clammy. The person needs cool cloths, and sips of water every 15 minutes. If there is vomiting, seek medical help.

At SERVPRO you are family, and we want you safe, and healthy. We Care. #HereToHelp #KeepCool #KeepHydrated

Extreme Heat Causes Fire Safety Sprinklers to Activate at Medical Office

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

It's not always an actual fire that can cause the fire safety sprinklers to activate inside a building

When offered the front seat one imagines the shotgun theory loll.  Will unfortunately this front seat offer was more in line with a commercial sprinkler shower. 

Without a doubt all involved and privy to the water damage were absolutely dumbfounded at how such a major water loss had just occurred in a large commercial building. 

Did you know that there are different types of fire sprinkler heads?  I did not, yet was made aware that there is by the fire chief who responded with the fire department.  

The level of heat allowed by the heat of the ceiling attic triggered a full blown fire alarm to the fire department. 

Whether it’s a Commercial Fire, Commercial Water, Residential Water, or Residential Fire SERVPRO is ready to assist with your needs 24/7/365.  803-475-4500

Storm Strikes in the middle of the night causing water damage to an office in Lancaster

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

Arriving to work after a night of heavy storms causes water damage to a Lancaster business.

After a restless night due to heavy storms your first thought is to check your residential property before leaving for work.  All good at home, yet as you unlock the office door you find a couple inches of water throughout the office.  Realizing the water has come through the ceiling you grab your phone and call SERVPRO.  You relay the situation, and the SERVPRO office is able to utilize your Emergency Ready Profile, which saves time for the customer, and allows SERVPRO to know where to park, who the contact is, and has a layout of the office.  With all this in motion within thirty minutes the water extraction began.  Furniture was blocked up, and office property was removed to protect it from further damage.  At SERVPRO we arrive with a plan in motion, and prepared to get you back “Like it never even happened.”

Fire, Water, and Smoke Damage to a Home in Lancaster was caused by an Unattended Stove

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

A stove left unattended can cause major fire, water, and smoke damage to a home.

SERVPRO has been called several times for kitchen fires that could have been avoided had the source been attended. It is so easy to set a pot on the stove only to leave the kitchen and get sidetracked with yet another distraction. In the blink of an eye your home can be affected by fire, smoke, and water. You could be displaced from your home, belongs lost, treasured pictures, memories in the form of heirlooms, and daily needed articles damaged, or permanently destroyed. And yes, if we are going to be real here, the ultimate loss would be loss of life.

We are available to assist with your needs 24/7/365. At SERVPRO our trained technicians are prepared to get you back to "Like it never even happened."

A Failed Water Line is the Cause of Heavy Water Damage

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Water migrates from bathroom into the crawlspace

While heading out of town your last thought is that you will return home to a blanket of water that has spread from the bathroom and made its way throughout the home, including the crawlspace. Due to the amount of time the water ran unnoticed played an important roll in the extent of water damage thought-out the home, also affecting the crawlspace under the home.

Once the water source is cut off it is critical to begin a Water Mitigation to avoid further water damage. In the proper setting mold can begin in a short amount of time. SERVPRO is available 24/7/365 to assist with your needs.

At SERVPRO we are #HereToHelp   If planning a trip be sure to check your water fixtures that supply the water to your home or business.

Providing the Proper Barrier to Protect the Rest of Your Home During a Mold Remediation

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

A decontamination barrier from the rest of the home to keep the mold spores from contaminating the rest of the home.

SERVPRO Technicians are happy to explain the necessity of setting up a safe place to clean off their bags and tools. This zone will help to prevent contamination to clean parts of the room, home, or business. 

What caused the mold is too much moisture in the air, due to poor ventilation in the home. Either a window, or ventilation fan is needed in order to properly disperse the moisture caused by water from a shower, so it does not set on the ceilings, or walls. Mold can not only damage the home, or business, but can also be a health risk to those who occupy the home or business. At SERVPRO our technicians are certified to properly remove the mold, thus bringing your home or business back to a safe environment.

Freedom Wasn't Free and SERVPRO Thanks Those Who Fought and are Fighting

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

Our flag of the United States of America

Memorial Day - legal holiday in the United States, last Monday in May, commemorates the members of the United States armed forces who were killed in war.  Formerly known as Decoration Day. (Webster's College Dictionary 2010)

As one travels throughout the south, out of nowhere a memorial in the shape of a headstone stands out in the open.  These would be landmarks where battles were fought, and lives lost.  There are movies recounting various battles where lives were lost, and heroes who humbly stood out, many under horrific circumstances.

My father, and brother served, and my son is serving.  Each of us knows someone who has, or is serving, and each of us knows someone, or of someone who never made it home.

At SERVPRO we ask that as you reflect on the Memorial Day of 2020 you continue to remember that our freedom was not free.  That you lift in your hearts those that kept us free, and those that are still battling to keep us free.

Team SERVPRO Hopes You Have a Happy Mother's Day

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO we are proud of the community we serve.

All of us at SERVPRO wish you a Happy Mother's Day

SERVPRO is not just a business, we are a family in unity working as a team to help our community, friends, and family, should the need arise. As Team SERVPRO we have Mothers who help to make our awesome team.

While the celebration of Motherhood can be traced back to the ancient Greeks, and Romans, the precedent for the modern Mother’s Day was held as a Christian festival known as “Mothering Sunday.”   Around the world Mother’s Day is celebrated on different dates, and the celebration signifies the tradition of that culture.

Here in America we still celebrate the mother, and the use of ‘Mother’ is not set in stone in regards to who we call a ‘Mother.’   I am a mother of children who are all grown and gone with their own children, but I’m not cut short as I have a four legged baby, so Dad and Boo will handle the day while I relax!

All of us at SERVPRO wish you and yours a Happy Mother’s Day, and if you need us we are available 24/7/365.   It’s an unfortunate reality but a holiday does not stop the potential for fire damage, water damage, or a situation that requires immediate attention.

Ice Maker water line fails causing water damage to kitchen at Lancaster residence

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

Ice maker water line failed causing hardwood floors to buckle in the kitchen

SERVPRO responds to a residential water loss that involved one small water line to the refrigerator. The failed water line due to its being located behind the refrigerator went unnoticed until the hardwood floors began to buckle. SERVPRO immediately began the water mitigation process and tear out of the flooring. SERVPRO provides removal of damaged or wet contents that are considered part of the water loss. SERVPRO can also provide Document Restoration for documents that got wet during the water loss. After several days of monitoring for moisture the SERVPRO Technicians began the Mold Remediation which will stop the growth of mold in the areas that were wet.

SERVPRO is your number one resource 24/7 to assist with your Water Damage and Mold Remediation at your home or business.

Homeowner Wakes to Water Damage in Lugoff South Carolina

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Water line to toilet failed during the night causing water damage.

Getting out of bed the last thing you expect is to find yourself stepping into water instead of your once dry floor. Out of instinct you immediately head into the bathroom where you discover the entire floor covered in water. You get the water shut off, and search for what caused all the water. After inspecting all the water lines, you discover the water supply line to the toilet has failed. The cost of the braided water line to the toilet is less than $10.00 and takes less than fifteen minutes to replace. A call to SERVPRO had a Water Mitigation Team onsite in less than an hour.

With the excess standing water removed SERVPRO strategically places equipment to begin the drying process. Depending on the type of flooring and how severe the water damage is will determine whether the flooring will have to be removed. Moisture meters are used daily to ensure complete dryness throughout the water damaged area. SERVPRO is your number one resource in times of disaster no matter how small, or big the loss.

Fire at Home in Lancaster South Carolina Causes Heavy Smoke Damage

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Leaving a stove unattended is cause of kitchen fire, and heavy smoke damage to the home

While damage from the actual flames was confined mostly to the kitchen, you take notice of how the smoke has migrated throughout the entire home. Many unexpected issues from smoke and fire damage can be found. While walking through the home with SERVPRO it becomes evident the actual amount of damage smoke can cause. You’ll notice discolored walls, or ash and soot on the floor. Depending on the path used with the fire hose you’ll also see a soggy sooty film. Be mindful of the smell as you make your way through the house as smells can be produced which can cause side effects that can be harmful not only to surfaces, but your health as well. Keep in mind that there will be changes in what you are seeing, some immediately, and some over the next few hours, or even days.

At SERVPRO we are prepared to assist with fire damage, and smoke damage to your home, or business.

Water Line to Cleaning Machine Fails at Medical Office in Lancaster

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

Water line fails over the weekend causing an entire medical office to flood.

While attending medical school I seriously doubted there is a course in office flooding, or water damage. Yet as an unplanned hiccup would have it, that's exactly what happened at a doctor’s office, a flood due to a broken pipe causing water damage.

The water line that failed was a pressurized line to a piece of equipment used for cleaning medical tools. The line failed over the weekend giving the free-flowing water time to completely flood the entire medical office.

SERVPRO didn’t hesitate to immediately dispatch their certified technicians to begin the Water Mitigation. Following protocol once the water was removed the entire facility was monitored daily to ensure there was a complete dry out. Upon the drying process being completed a Mold Remediation was preformed to avoid the potential for mold.  

We understand the importance of getting back to “Like it never even happened,” as quickly and efficiently as possible.

At SERVPRO we are here 24/7/365 to assist with your needs.

Stove Left Unattended in Lancaster Home Is Cause of Fire

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

Leaving stove unattended put a family out of their home for several months.

No matter your walk in life, or the label society has placed on your age group generation. Every one of us at some point in time has opted to multi task cooking.  While this thought process can seem an innocent action in the grand scheme of life’s crazy schedules, it can also be deemed one of the most devastating, and costly.

SERVPRO has been called several times for kitchen fires that could have been avoided had the source been attended. It is so easy to set a pot on the stove only to leave the kitchen and get side tracked with yet another distraction. In the blink of an eye your home can be enveloped by fire. You could be displaced from your home, belongs lost, treasured pictures, memories in the form of heirlooms, and daily needed articles damaged, or permanently destroyed. And yes if we are going to be real here, the ultimate loss would be loss of life.

Christmas Globe Survives a Fire That Destroyed a Home in Kershaw

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

Christmas Globe survives a house fire, and SERVPRO brings it back to "Like it never even happened".

One unforgettable day the blare of fire sirens broke the silence, and the fire trucks rolling by kicked up a cloud of dust that was still floating to the ground as the fire trucks disappeared around the corner.  I look around and see a thick black billowing cloud of smoke swirling its way into the clear blue sky. It only took a moment to realize the commotion was taking place in what was the vicinity of where I had spent my childhood years.  As I jumped into my truck my phone began to ring causing my heart to skip a beat, and my stomach to jump into a knot. Fear washed over me as I rounded the corner and realized what once was my childhood home was completely engulfed in flames.  Black smoke laced with yellow and orange flames did a wicked dance that had already enveloped the inside, and quickly consumed and claimed the outer structure of what had been a home once filled with laughter, and the smell of mom’s home cooking. 

The townspeople were arriving and stood with their heads down praying that all would be well. As the rest of my family arrived, we hugged one another, tears freely running down our cheeks as we watched with broken hearts our childhood home disappear into the flickering flames.

We reached out to SERVPRO to handle what the firemen called a ‘board-up’ to protect and preserve what was remaining of the home once the house fire had been put out.

After days of sifting through the rubble we discovered a Christmas Globe that had been part of our family's Christmas decorations as far back as I could remember. Sobbing my sister contacted SERVPRO to see if there was any way possible to restore the completely blackened globe that was in the house fire. No promises made by SERVPRO I dropped it off and prayed SERVPRO would be able to save the small, yet only remaining memory found in the rubble.  A week later to my astonishment I received a call from SERVPRO asking me to stop by the office.

The knot in my stomach quickly disappeared and I broke into tears of joy as I looked at the beautifully restored Christmas Globe. That such a small item could bring so much heartfelt joy to our family, and I will always be grateful to SERVPRO for taking care of a small piece of our family history.

Meth Lab Cause of Fire in Lancaster South Carolina

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

A meth lab is cause of fire at a rental home on Lancaster

Unfortunately a crisis we as a society face is the manufacturing of meth using homemade meth labs in homes, and facilities illegally. In part this in itself is very dangerous in regards to the substances used to manufacture the illegal drug, and the potential for combustion at any moment. The drug in itself is very dangerous as just touching the drug can have adverse effects, and should there be combustion involved during the manufacturing process, there is not only damage to the property involved, but to human lives as well once the combustion quickly turns into a structure fire.

SERVPRO was called out to cleanup the fire damage, and board up this hazardous situation. The pictures depict the location of the point of combustion which was in the master bedroom, and the aftermath of the explosions damage to the interior furnishings, walls, and window.

Due to the dangerous chemicals involved this occurrence is classified as a Fire and Biohazard job. While the property was heavily incurred heavy fire damage to the structure, there were no injuries, or loss of life at this particular location.

SERVPRO  is qualified to handle, and resolve issues involving chemical fires, or spills that might arise should you encounter the same unfortunate situation.

24/7/365 SERVPRO is available to assist you in your needs.

Heavy Smoke Filters Through the Cracks in the Windows at a House Fire in Kershaw South Carolina

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

There was so much smoke inside the house fire that the smoke filtered through the cracks in the windows

You would think that fire and smoke damage would contain itself to just the inside of a building when there's a fire.  Even a small fire can cause enough heat and smoke damage to weave itself through even the smallest of cracks. Every door frame, cabinets, and mirrors are affected.  One would not think that a fireplace would be affected, but the bricks, or rock used for the chimney are porous and even in the tiny pores soot will settle leaving a smoke odor.  Like heat, smoke rises which means the entire attic will be affected. Like the brick, wood too is very porous and will retain the soot in the tiny pores.  SERVPRO knows the importance of locating all avenues the smoke has taken so that when your home the smoke and fire damage can be behind you, and all that remains is the fire of yesterday, and a renewed home today.

SERVPRO is your resource #24/7/365

Second Annual Easter Egg Hunt At Stevens Park in Kershaw

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Getting ready for the second annual Easter Egg Hunt at Stevens Park in Kershaw, South Carolina

The Town of Kershaw is excited to announce the 2nd Annual Community Easter Egg Hunt which will be at Stevens Park in Kershaw, South Carolina on Saturday April 04, 2020 event will begin at 10 A.M.

The Easter Egg Hunt will begin at 11 A.M. Multiple age groups (0 – 5th Grade)

First 50 Los will receive a FREE Easter Basket

Pictures with the Easter Bunny at the Gazebo

Free Raffle for participating kids

Free Activities, treats, and more

 Currently they are looking for organizations, business, and churches to participate To participate they are asking that you donate 500 pre-filled Easter Eggs, and set up a table the day of the event with free promotional items about your organization and/or have free treats, and/or free activities for the children.

Last year there was over 10,000 Easter Eggs, and over 200 children from a 43-mile radius of Kershaw attended.

 Lets come together as a community and make this a great event that everyone looks forward to annually.

Small Water Line Fails in Lancaster causing a Large Water Loss at a Business.

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

A large water loss occurred over the weekend as a failed water pump expelled water throughout the office all weekend.

Generally once lunch is over on Friday, we start making sure we’ve tied up loose ends so there is nothing hung up over the weekend, and come Monday we are prepared for what rolled in over the weekend.  One thing that is for certain, we don’t plan on walking in the office feeling like we should have worn our rain boots.  At the end of the hall it’s a flow of water that catches you eye and motivates a quicker pace to find the source.  The water filter had failed causing water to continuously flow all weekend throughout the office.  With the water source turned off, and SERVPRO  on the way to make it "Like it never even happened."  At SERVPRO we understand the importance of getting you back to business. 

SERVPRO Understands The Importance of Purchasing Your Home and Avoiding Potential Mold

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

When walking through a home your feeling inspired to purchase, it is important to check for any mold issues

Buying a new home can be stressful. It is important when purchasing a new home to have the home inspected.  What would you do if you were in the middle of buying your first home and found mold? 

Mold is not always where it might easily be noticed.  Obvious locations are in the bathroom, or kitchen.  Not so obvious would be the crawl space, or attic. Sometimes it is how the home is ventilated. The HVAC system can also be a source of mold as it can be in either the main HVAC Unit, the duct system, or both.

SERVPRO Technicians are trained in Mold Remediation, which will include air barriers to avoid the spread of mold into rooms not otherwise affected.  The air will be tested before and after the entire process. SERVPRO understands the anticipation of getting into your new home, we make it “Like it never even happened.”

No Matter High High Or Low SERVPRO Is Prepared to make it "Like it never even happened."

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Scaffolding at highest peak of church with SERVPRO technicians removing mold

Churches like many things in life come in many different shapes and sizes, and the craftsmanship is of many different levels.  The church pictured is crafted in a geometric fashion, with the wood grain adding to the beauty.

While the eye is keen to appreciate the craftsmanship, and beauty of the wood grain in itself leaves one in awe.

At worship service one weekend a Deacon while giving praise realized that the ceiling above was turning dark, and the darkest was in the middle.

Without hesitation we called SERVPRO who had handled a water loss, and a fire loss in the past. Naturally it made sense to contact SERVPRO for a mold issue. Even at the highest peak of the sanctuary the SERVPRO  technicians were very professional and had the highest regard for safety  

SERVPRO was quick to respond to our call, and in no time they were set up with a lift to reach the highest peak of the ceiling, and performing a mold remediation. 

Space Heater Cause of Fire at a Home in Lancaster

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

Never place a space heater next to or on flammable materials or furnishings
Space Heaters can warm, but improperly used in the least can cause #firedame and at the most #trauma. Be safe when using a space heater

With the chilly weather upon us so is the potential for families and or businesses turning to heating resources they feel might be beneficial in helping to heat a home, or business.

Statically billions are spent each year, yes each year, on damage caused by fires.  Lives are lost, and many are injured.

  • In the winter time the rural communities will utilize portable space heaters, wood stoves, and kerosene heaters.  Unfortunately it is a common risk taken without the complete understanding of the fire potential should any of these be used improperly. With a fire, comes water used to put out the fire.  Without proper cleanup from the fire and water, comes the potential of mold.  

Below are some winter safety tips, and general fire prevention tips to help keep you, your families, and homes safe.

  • Space heaters need space---keep furniture and objects away
  • Electric space heaters must be plugged directly into a wall outlet---NOT AN EXTENSION CORD
  • Appliances must be plugged directly into the wall outlet, not an extension cord to avoid the potential of an electrical fire. 
  • NEVER use gasoline in kerosene heaters, or camp stove oil units.
  • NEVER fill a heating unit when hot
  • Be sure your chimney is clean before using, and that your damper is working properly
  • Use an insert or heavy screen to prevent hot embers from leaving the fireplace compartment, and keep logs from rolling out
  • ALWAYS allow ashes to cool before removing, and ALWAYS place ashes inside a metal container.  Always store ash containers at least 10 feet from buildings
  • NEVER leave food cooking, or candles burning unattended.
  • NEVER use a grill as a heat source inside the home, or business.
  • ALWAYS use portable generators outside away from doors and windows, NEVER use inside of enclosed areas of a home or buildings.
  • Make sure you have working smoke alarms outside of each sleeping area, and at least one carbon monoxide alarm in the home.

If you are in need of smoke detectors either call or stop by your local fire department and they will be happy to provide what is needed in your home at no cost.  If you are unable to install, they will be happy to assist and install for you.

We at SERVPRO  wishes you a safe and warm winter.  Should you have any questions, or are in need  of assistance please feel free to contact us.

SERVPRO Understands the Importance of Helping to Make Your Dreams Come True

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

Something as simple as a carpet cleaning can make the difference on making your dreams come true.
You have a dream, with the dream comes the vision, and you set out to achieve what is now a reality.  To open and run a commercial business requires careful planning.  

Part of this plan is to procure the proper commercial property to house your dream.  There are few commercial properties that fill your vision.  Also, you get a call and your heart skips a beat.  Somehow you know already this could be the one. 

You arrive, and there is no doubt you envision your business in the commercial property before you. 

As you survey the scene you realize the only thing wrong is the carpet cleaning that will be required. Without hesitation, nor realizing the late hour, you call SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties to query the potential of a commercial carpet cleaning. 

Estatic that SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties answered your call at almost 8:00 pm, and was happy to schedule an appointment to provide an estimate for a Commercial Carpet Cleaning. 

One week and 40,000 square feet of Commercial Carpet Cleaning completed, your on your way to hosting your Grand Opening. 

SERVPRO not only meets your needs, but helps fulfill dream.  

Using the wrong waterline to ice maker was cause of water damage in Lancaster

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the equipment and technology to get you back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO responded to a commercial water loss that involved one small water lin e that caused the entire building to flood.  SERVPRO immediately began the process of water mitigation, and then proceeded to the dry out process. 

Once the initial shock of coming to work and finding literally the entire building floors covered in water, a call to SERVPRO, and figure out exactly how and why the ice maker water line had burst causing the entire building to flood. Just imagine the surprise once it was discovered the plumber had used a water line clearly labeled ‘do not use on ice maker water line’. Houston we have a problem. Clearly no one had read the clear disuse instructions, or choose to blatantly heed the warning. An issue to be resolved without a doubt, but the issue of flooding due to excess water in the building is being remedied by SERVPRO.  

Can of Peas Cause of Stove Fire in Lancaster South Carolina

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

It only took a pan of peas to start this stove top fire.

No matter your walk in life, or the label society has placed on your age group generation. Every one of us at some point in time has opted to multi task cooking.  While this thought process can seem like an innocent action in the grand scheme of life’s crazy schedules, it can also be deemed one of the most devastating, and costly.

SERVPRO has been called several times for kitchen fires that could have been avoided had the source been attended. It is so easy to set a pot on the stove only to leave the kitchen and get side tracked with yet another distraction. In the blink of an eye your home can be enveloped by fire. You could be displaced from your home, belongs lost, treasured pictures, memories in the form of heirlooms, and daily needed articles damaged, or permanently destroyed. And yes if we are going to be real here, the ultimate loss would be loss of life.

SERVPRO cares, and to help you avoid a kitchen fire, I have listed below key elements that are fire-related hazards in a kitchen. Happy and safe cooking from all us at SERVPRO  

Fire-related hazards in a kitchen include:

  •  Flames, sparks and hot gases from food

   preparation can ignite residues in exhaust ducts

  • Food preparation equipment

   left without supervision during operation

  •  Failure to switch-off equipment, especially

   at the end of activity

  • Overheated oils that can lead to spontaneous
    combustion
  • Food preparation equipment based on solid fuels
  • Gas blowtorches used for browning some foods
  • Poorly operating thermostats or lack

   of thermostat or fault-detecting equipment

  • Faulty or overheating electrical equipment
  •  Metal exhaust flues that conduct heat

   and ignite nearby material or debris

  • Ovens without igniters/pilot lights
  1.    (lit with burning pieces of paper).

A Space Heater Improperly placed can cause a fire

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

To help avoid a space heater fire place in a clear area, and away from furniture.

With the chilly weather upon us so is the potential for families and or businesses turning to heating resources they feel might be beneficial in helping to heat a home, or business.

Statically billions are spent each year, yes each year, on damage caused by fires.  Lives are lost, and many are injured.

  • In the winter time the rural communities will utilize portable space heaters, wood stoves, and kerosene heaters.  Unfortunately it is a common risk taken without the complete understanding of the fire potential should any of these be used improperly. With a fire, comes water used to put out the fire.  Without proper cleanup from the fire and water, comes the potential of mold.  

Below are some winter safety tips, and general fire prevention tips to help keep you, your families, and homes safe.

  • Space heaters need space---keep furniture and objects away
  • Electric space heaters must be plugged directly into a wall outlet---NOT AN EXTENSION CORD
  • Appliances must be plugged directly into the wall outlet, not an extension cord to avoid the potential of an electrical fire. 
  • NEVER use gasoline in kerosene heaters, or camp stove oil units.
  • NEVER fill a heating unit when hot
  • Be sure your chimney is clean before using, and that your damper is working properly
  • Use an insert or heavy screen to prevent hot embers from leaving the fireplace compartment, and keep logs from rolling out
  • ALWAYS allow ashes to cool before removing, and ALWAYS place ashes inside a metal container.  Always store ash containers at least 10 feet from buildings
  • NEVER leave food cooking, or candles burning unattended.
  • NEVER use a grill as a heat source inside the home, or business.
  • ALWAYS use portable generators outside away from doors and windows, NEVER use inside of enclosed areas of a home or buildings.
  • Make sure you have working smoke alarms outside of each sleeping area, and at least one carbon monoxide alarm in the home.

If you are in need of smoke detectors either call or stop by your local fire department and they will be happy to provide what is needed in your home at no cost.  If you are unable to install, they will be happy to assist and install for you.

Emergency Ready Profile helps Camden SC Facility When the Hot Water Heater Fails

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

It is important to properly dry not just the floors, but the lower walls as well.

My smile quickly vanished as I stepped into a flooded foyer looking more like a wading pool from all the water.  My mind is racing as I frantically search for the source of the water that has so graciously made itself into far more than a wading pool.  From the front door clear to the back door the water ripples with each step I take.  The normally quiet morning is filled with an unusual sound of water, and to my already pumping with adrenaline being, I find the water source upon opening the door to the hot water heater.  Like a dam just turned loose, the water rushed out of the closet. For a fleeting moment I had the thought of a dam affected by a flood as the water spewed out over and around my feet and legs giving the illusion of trees caught in its path.   

Shifting gears I grabbed my iPhone and tapped on the ERP ICON. The ERP ICON represents EARLY READY PROGRAM that is offered, and provided by SERVPRO. I was immediately able to click on the EMERGENCY WATER SHUTOFF NUMBER provided by SERVPRO in our companies EMERGENCY READY PROFILE.  Water shutoff issue handled, I next located the plumber’s number, also provided by SERVPRO in our EMERGENCY READY PROFILE. Next I contacted SERVPRO who immediately helped to sooth my panic, and stress, as they are dispatching out a SERVPRO CERTIFIED WATER MITIGATION CREW as we spoke.

Over the next few days SERVPRO was a much appreciated presence in our office as they moved our CONTENTS, performed WATER MITIGATION, and DAILY MONITORING in the affected areas.  SERVPRO was patient, and explained the entire process each step of the way.  Once the DRYING was completed, I watched in astonishment as each article of our contents was meticulously replaced to their original locations.

Reflecting back on there were many factors that contributed to how that day started, and, how it ended.  I find great satisfaction in knowing that the main positive influential factor was, and will remain SERVPRO. 

Mold in HVAC System Affects Entire Commercial Office In Lancaster South Carolina

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

HVAC kept in closet is out of sight making it easy to miss the growing mold.

It is easy in an office setting to forget that the HVAC system needs to be on a regular maintenance schedule. Not every business has a custodian, or maintenance person to keep things in check. If an office or business doesn’t have a maintenance person, or custodian, a designated employee should be assigned to do regular maintenance checks throughout the office, and especially the HVAC system.

In a short amount of time mold spores are born and spread quickly. Once mold is in the HVAC system it goes into the ducts, and proceeds to spread throughout the entire heating system and into air where staff, and/or customers are occupying within the building.

There are many different health issues that can come from exposure to mold if not properly treated. SERVPRO technicians are trained to properly perform a Mold Remediation and help put your business back to “Like it never even happened.”

Water Line To Your Toilet Should Be on Your Maintenance Schedule

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Maintenance of your water line to the toilet will help avoid water damage.

With the holidays upon us it is not unusual to either go somewhere, or have people over.  Whether you have one toilet or two, or more makes the maintenance of water lines to the toilet a priority. 

It is never an expected event to without any warning to find a water line to the toilet has failed, and you have water flooding in the bathroom, and depending on when you find the water will determine how much water damage will be done.  If the toilet is located on an upper level the water will seep through the flooring to the level, or levels below.  If it is on a first floor, the water will seep through to your crawl space as well. 

First thing is to cut off the water flow, next is to fix the line.  This is all done in a short amount of time.  Once the issue has been remedied it is time to call SERVPRO so the water damage is cut down.  SERVPRO will respond immediately and begin a water mitigation, and then a mold remediation to avoid mold issues.

SERVPRO is #HereToHelp 24/7/365

Water From Shower Can Cause Mold if not Ventilated Properly

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

Water caused mold issue requiring a decontamination barrier from the rest of the home to keep the mold spores from contaminating the rest of the home.

You’ve contacted SERVPRO to remove the mold you discovered in your bathroom. As you watch the crew work you are in awe as they put up what appears to be a plastic room outside yet attached to the bathroom. You ask the relevance of such a room, and the SERVPRO Technician is happy to explain the necessity of setting up a safe place to clean off their bags and tools. This zone will help to prevent contamination to clean parts of the room, home, or business. 

What caused the mold is too much moisture in the air, due to poor ventilation in the home. Either a window, or ventilation fan is needed in order to properly disperse the moisture caused by water from a shower, so it does not set on the ceilings, or walls. Mold can not only damage the home, or business, but can also be a health risk to those who occupy the home or business. At SERVPRO our technicians are certified to properly remove the mold, thus bringing your home or business back to a safe environment.

Hurricane Left Many with Heavily Water Damaged Homes

11/15/2019 (Permalink)

To properly dry the walls the wet drywall is removed.

SERVPRO Responds to a water damaged home from a Hurricane that brought significant amounts of wind and rain damage. We all knew the hurricane was coming, but how does one truly prepare their home for the high rising water knowing the water damage will be horrific. One can only pack up the family, what is of importance and pray upon returning home the water damage is less than expected. Once the area is considered passable you return to your home, or business to find the water has damaged your home, and contents. 

SERVPRO specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response Time with Crews Ready 24/7/365

We are locally owned and operated enabling us to respond quicker with the proper resources tailored to fit your circumstances, which is extremely important.  A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

SERVPRO Has the Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Lancaster and Kershaw Counties, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today SERVPRO 803-475-7500

SERVPRO is your resource #24/7/365

Heavy Thunderstorms Damaged a Home in Lancaster South Carolina When Struck by Lightning

11/15/2019 (Permalink)

The lightning strike hit with enough voltage to go through the roof and into the living room.

The evening was filled with high winds, rain, and heavy rounds of lightning strikes. Any one of these elements can cause major damage to a home, or business.  A tree falling on a home or business can bring the rains into the home, or business causing water damage, and as we see in the south, lightning strikes are an unfortunate part of a storm rolling through.  With a lightning strike on a home or business the level of the incident suddenly moves to a whole new level.  You now have lightning damage, which includes fire damage, and water damage.  Bottom line, it is quite overwhelming to process how one lightning strike can cause so much damage. One lightning strike can cause enough damage to render the home, or business uninhabitable until repairs are completed.

SERVPRO specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Water Line in the Breakroom Fails Causing Water Damage to Office in Camden South Carolina

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Water exits the breakroom and enters the attached room

Once there is a flood on the inside of a building, or home the water will continue to flow until the source of the problem is resolved. Water either into the line must be shut off, or the entire water system will need to be shut off, and a plumber will need to come and resolve the issue that caused the water to flood the home, or office.

Upon arriving to work Monday morning the office manager was greeted with standing water that was caused by a broken pipe in the break room. Making a call to SERVPRO brought out a crew in less than an hour to begin the Water Mitigation process, followed by a Mold Remediation. The office staff was very appreciative to have their office back “Like it never even happened”

Team SERVPRO Looks forward to partaking in the activities in Kershaw and Lancaster Counties

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO marketing car might be small, but makes a huge impression.

Throughout your day you might be afforded the opportunity to pass by one of our SERVPRO vehicles.  While there are several vehicles, and each suited to provide services for either Water, Fire, Mold, Cleaning, or Trauma, it is the smallest in the SERVPRO vehicle pool that is far from what you'd call a ghost. 

This Lil' SERVPRO vehicle loves to visit businesses and homes sharing the latest SERVPRO news, and how SERVPRO can be of assistance whether it be caused by water, fire, mold, or your needing cleaning in your home or business. Also be sure to watch for us at events taking place around Kershaw, and Lancaster Counties.

So, if you’re out and about and run across our Lil' SERVPRO vehicle don't forget to wave or stop and say 'Hi".

Safe travels!  We look forward to seeing you!

Warm Up Wisely to Avoid a Fire in Your Home or Business

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Too much heat at your feet can cause a fire is not done properly

With the chilly weather upon us so is the potential for families and or businesses turning to heating resources they feel might be beneficial in helping to heat a home, or business.

Statically billions are spent each year, yes, each year, on damage caused by fires.  Lives are lost, and many are injured.

  • In the wintertime the rural communities will utilize portable space heaters, wood stoves, and kerosene heaters.  Unfortunately, it is a common risk taken without the complete understanding of the fire potential should any of these be used improperly. With a fire, comes water used to put out the fire.  Without proper cleanup from the fire and water, comes the potential of mold.  

Below are some winter safety tips, and general fire prevention tips to help keep you, your families, and homes safe.

  • Space heaters need space---keep furniture and objects away
  • Electric space heaters must be plugged directly into a wall outlet---NOT AN EXTENSION CORD
  • Appliances must be plugged directly into the wall outlet, not an extension cord to avoid the potential of an electrical fire. 
  • NEVER use gasoline in kerosene heaters, or camp stove oil units.
  • NEVER fill a heating unit when hot
  • Be sure your chimney is clean before using, and that your damper is working properly
  • Use an insert or heavy screen to prevent hot embers from leaving the fireplace compartment, and keep logs from rolling out
  • ALWAYS allow ashes to cool before removing, and ALWAYS place ashes inside a metal container.  Always store ash containers at least 10 feet from buildings
  • NEVER leave food cooking, or candles burning unattended.
  • NEVER use a grill as a heat source inside the home, or business.
  • ALWAYS use portable generators outside away from doors and windows, NEVER use inside of enclosed areas of a home or buildings.
  • Make sure you have working smoke alarms outside of each sleeping area, and at least one carbon monoxide alarm in the home.

If you need smoke detectors either call or stop by your local fire department and they will be happy to provide what is needed in your home at no cost.  If you are unable to install, they will be happy to assist and install for you.

  Should you have any questions or are in need of assistance please feel free to contact us.

SERVPRO IS YOUR NUMBER ONE RESOURCE FOR FIRE, WATER, AND MOLD REMEDIATION.

Food For The Soul Pantry for Kershaw County

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Helping to those in need in Kershaw County South Carolina

At SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties we enjoy being part of a great community, and we have an outlook that is more of family, helping family.  If you know of someone in need, please feel free to contact us that we might be of assistance in providing resources.

The mission of Food for the Soul is to serve as a Christ-like ministry to meet the basic needs of the hungry and homeless in Kershaw county

Large cans of food!  Fresh vegetables, fruit, and meats!  Large bags of rice, pastas, grits, sugar, flour!  Large containers of coffee and creamer! Warm weather coats, gloves, hats, sleepwear!  Detergent and cleaning supplies!  Toilet paper and paper towels!!  And of course, monetary donations are always needed to keep the power on!

EMERGENCY SERVICES – COLD WEATHER SERVICES

Food for The Soul offers overnight sheltering 7 days a week. Our overnight services are provided for victims of domestic violence, flood, fire, those that have been evicted and have nowhere else to go, and those that are chronically homeless.

The hours are from 7 pm- 7 am. Identification is needed. An initial intake must be completed.

A light evening meal is provided. Clean clothing will be given for sleepwear and showers will be provided along with hygiene products. A clean cot and all bedding will be supplied. Coffee will be provided in the morning, and guests can return at 9am for breakfast.

FOOD SERVICES

Hot meals are served Tuesday – Friday 12pm – 1pm.  A light breakfast is also available those days.  Emergency Shelter guests receive a simple, hot meal at 7:30pm

Frozen Water Lines Can Cause Damage to Your Home or Business

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

A frozen water line can damage your home or business

With winter here, and the temperatures dropping, we are already beginning to see, and hear about frozen pipes, which lead to water damage. Frozen water pipes are a reoccurring issue which occurs once the temperatures drop below freezing. Statistically it is proven that frozen pipes are one of the biggest risks of property damage when the temperature drops. This is more prevalent in regions where the temperature can significantly drop. Lower temperatures can cause the water to expand, which puts pressure on the pipes, or storage container, causing the pipe to break, or container to burst. Once there is a compromise to the water system, or storage unit the ensuing water can cause water damage, and potentially turn into an emergency.

First the home or business with the water damage must quickly be evaluated for the safety of anyone in the home, or business. Be sure there is nothing electric in, or around the water damage to cause either an electrical fire, or electrocution. Make sure there are no ‘slip and fall’ hazards. If it is not safe, keep out and dial 911 for help. Once all is secure regarding safety precautions, shut off the water if you can. 

Call SERVPRO for water damage to your home, or business. 803-475-7500

Storms Bring High Waters Causing Home to Flood in South Carolina

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

House is surrounded by water due to flooding

SERVPRO responded to a water damaged home caused storms that produced water levels that invaded the home. We all knew the hurricane was coming, but how does one truly prepare their home for the high rising water knowing the water damage will be horrific. One can only pack up the family, what is of importance and pray upon returning home the water damage is less than expected. Once the area is considered passable you return to your home, or business to find the water has damaged either your home, or business along with the contents. 

SERVPRO specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response Time with Crews Ready 24/7/365

We are locally owned and operated enabling us to respond quicker with the proper resources tailored to fit your circumstances, which is extremely important.  A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

SERVPRO Has the Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Lancaster or Kershaw Counties, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country, and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today SERVPRO 803-475-7500

With Fall Upon Us it is Time To Get Your HVAC Ready For Winter

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Your air ducts and HVAC system requires maintenance to provide proper heating and cooling

All too often when dusting the house only to walk back in the room an hour later and find a coating of dust once again has come to rest where you just dusted. Or you wonder why the heating and/or air conditioning unit seems to be running for longer periods of time.  You change the filters as required, but without realizing it, you've neglected to clean your ducts which run the air throughout the system in your workplace, or home. Keeping your HVAC system cleaned. on a regular maintenance schedule can also help reduce the chance of a fire.

While we are experiencing some very chilly weather out there making it time to schedule a cleaning for your Air Ducts and HVAC system.  SERVPRO is scheduling appointments now.  Call today to schedule your Air Ducts and HVAC system cleaning.

SERVPRO is here to help with your needs.

With the holidays just around the corner it’s time to schedule a Carpet Cleaning

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help with cleaning up after cute has run through.

On a normal day we trek in and out of the house. We follow the carpet path that leads to the couch, bathroom, bedroom, and of course, the front or back door.  I would say most of us has someone cute whether it be a young one, or a pet that is making headway with their own trails, and silly spots found in odd locations throughout the home, or business. 

At SERVPRO we specialize in carpet cleaning, and spot removal.  No job to large, or to small, each treated with the same professional cleaning you deserve. At SERVPRO our certified technicians will take care of your professional carpet cleaning needs.

We are here to help you clean up after cute has run through.

Call SERVPRO to schedule a carpet cleaning today. 803-475-7500

Lightning Strike Causes Fire Damage to Lancaster South Carolina Home

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

Lightning Strikes a home causing heavy damage to the interior of the home.

The evening was filled with high winds, rain, and heavy rounds of lightning strikes. Any one of these elements can cause major damage to a home or business.  A tree falling on a home or business can bring the rains into the home, or business causing water damage, and as we see in the south, lightning strikes are an unfortunate part of a storm rolling through.  With a lightning strike on a home or business the level of the incident suddenly moves to a whole new level.  You now have lightning damage, which includes fire damage, and water damage.  Bottom line, it is quite overwhelming to process how one lightning strike can cause so much damage. 

SERVPRO of specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response Time with Crews Ready 24/7/365

We are locally owned and operated enabling us to respond quicker with the proper resources tailored to fit your circumstances, which is extremely important.  A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

SERVPRO Has the Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Lancaster and Kershaw Counties, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today SERVPRO 803-475-7500

Mold Remediation at home in Lancaster South Carolina

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

Mold is found in a crawlspace of a home in Lancaster South Carolina.

These days to just hear the word mold is enough to make one listen to see how it might affect them.  It seems all too often calls come in regarding either the smell, or what appears to be a presence of mold.  Yes it sounds scary, and it looks scary, and by all means it smells yucky.  Mold can cause health issues without one even realizing that it is the mold causing the problem.

At SERVPRO our certified technicians are ready to help resolve your mold issues once it is determined it is indeed mold, and what was the cause of the mold in the first place.  We use an anti-microbial to clean up the mold.  We utilize wall barriers to keep the mold confined to the affected area. Our goal is to get you back to the comfort of home 'Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO is your resource for Mold Remediation.

Ice Maker Water Line Improperly Installed Causes Large Commercial Water Loss in Lancaster South Carolina

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

Community center floods due to improper installation of the water line to the ice maker.

SERVPRO responded to a commercial water loss that involved one small water line that caused the entire building to flood.  SERVPRO immediately began the process of water mitigation, and then proceeded to the dry out process. 

Once the initial shock of coming to work and finding literally the entire building floors covered in water, a call to SERVPRO, and figure out exactly how and why the ice maker water line had burst causing the entire building to flood. Just imagine the surprise once it was discovered the plumber had used a water line clearly labeled ‘do not use on ice maker water line’. Houston, we have a problem. Clearly no one had read the clear disuse instructions or choose to blatantly heed the warning. An issue to be resolved without a doubt, but the issue of flooding due to excess water in the building is being remedied by SERVPRO.

Fire in Camden South Carolina Apartment Community Damages Three Apartments

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage to the middle apartment was caused by the fire department extinguishing a fire in the apartment directly above it.

Without a doubt a fire has its own level of devastation, add to that the amount of water used throughout.  Now add the sitting water which has the potential to become a mold issue.  

Once a fire has started and the fire department has arrived, the situation becomes a fire, water job for SERVPRO There are many factors that can delay the cleanup of a fire, water job.  The goal at SERVPRO is to respond within an hour of receiving the call.   Once the fire scene has been turned over to SERVPRO we begin the cleanup process for the fire, and water damage which will include the removal of damaged debris. Damaged debris can include but not be limited to construction building materials, and personal items belonging to the homeowner, or business. SERVPRO has a contents crew that goes through each piece of property and documents whether it is a loss or in need of being cleaned.

A Families Evening Was Interrupted By a Lightening Strike Directly Over the Dining Room

9/5/2019 (Permalink)

A stormy evening spent with the family was disrupted by lightening striking the home directly over the dining room causing fire, and water damage.

The evening was filled with high winds, rain, and heavy rounds of lightning strikes. Any one of these elements can cause major damage to a home or business. A tree falling on a home or business can bring the rains into the home, or business causing water damage, and as we see in the south, lightning strikes are an unfortunate part of a storm rolling through. With a lightning strike on a home or business the level of the incident suddenly moves to a whole new level. You now have lightning damage, which includes fire, and water damage. Bottom line, it is quite overwhelming to process how one lightning strike can cause so much damage.

At SERVPRO our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

We are locally owned and operated enabling us to respond quicker with the proper resources tailored to fit your circumstances, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties Has the Resources to Handle Flood and Storm Damage.

When storms hit Lancaster and Kershaw Counties, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of1,650 Franchises across the country and eliteDisaster Recovery Teamsthat are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today SERVPRO 803-475-7500

Faster Response Time with Crews Ready 24/7/365

At SERVPRO we love to stop by and say HI!

8/28/2019 (Permalink)

Lil Green SERVPRO Marketing Vehicle can be seen around town visiting customers.

Throughout your day you might be afforded the opportunity to pass by one of our SERVPRO vehicles.  While there are several vehicles, and each suited to provide services for either Water, Fire, Mold, Cleaning, or Trauma, it is the smallest in the SERVPRO vehicle pool that is far from what you'd call a ghost. 

This Lil' SERVPRO vehicle loves to visit businesses and homes sharing the latest SERVPRO news, and how SERVPRO can be of assistance whether it be caused by water, fire, mold, or your needing cleaning in your home or business.

So, if you’re out and about and run across our Lil' SERVPRO vehicle don't forget to wave or stop and say 'Hi".

Safe travels!  We look forward to seeing you!

Failed Hot Water Heater Floods Camden Office over the Weekend

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

It water damage could of been worse, but with the help of SERVPRO we were back up and running in a short amount of time.

The day started off just as any typical Monday morning for me. Getting back into the weekly regiment after a nice long weekend, alarms clocks going off, the hustle and bustle of finding a matching sock, or the left shoe the dog seems to have stashed in with his favorite toys.  Lunches packed, backpacks double checked, all good so far.  Breakfast on the run, or should I say ride, as the kids pile in the Mommy van for the trek to school.  The next twenty minutes are a mixture of mommy, mommy, and my voice rising about the chatter with my ‘don't forgets’.  All said and done, not a bad start for a Monday morning.  Fifteen minutes of quiet is mine, it’s the time I use to prepare for the day ahead.  I'm ready, team hat on, I forge through the office door smiling.

My smile quickly vanishes as I step into a flooded foyer looking more like a wading pool from all the water.  My mind is racing as I frantically search for the source of the water that has so graciously made itself into far more than a wading pool.  From the front door clear to the back door the water ripples with each step I take.  The normally quiet morning is filled with an unusual sound of water, and to my already pumping with adrenaline being, I find the water source upon opening the door to the hot water heater.  Like a dam just turned loose, the water rushed out of the closet. For a fleeting moment I had the thought of a dam affected by a flood as the water spewed out over and around my feet and legs giving the illusion of trees caught in its path.  

Shifting gears, I grabbed my iPhone and tapped on the ERP ICON. The ERP ICON represents Emergency Ready Plan that is offered and provided by SERVPRO. I was immediately able to click on the EMERGENCY WATER SHUTOFF NUMBER provided by SERVPRO in our companies Emergency Ready Plan.  Water shutoff issue handled, I next located the plumber’s number, also provided by SERVPRO in our Emergency Ready Plan. Next I contacted SERVPRO who immediately helped to sooth my panic, and stress, as they are dispatching out a SERVPRO Certified Water Mitigation Crew while we spoke.

Over the next few days SERVPRO was a much-appreciated presence in our office as they moved our CONTENTS, performed WATER MITIGATION, and DAILY MONITORING in the affected areas.  SERVPRO was patient and understanding in explaining the entire process each step of the way.  Once the DRYING was completed, I watched in astonishment as each article of our contents was meticulously replaced to their original locations.

Reflecting on what I have labeled "Not My Typical Monday" I know there were many factors that contributed to how that day started, and, how it ended.  I find great satisfaction in knowing that the main positive influential factor was and will remain SERVPRO.  Little did I know, or realize, when I signed up for the SERVPRO Early Ready Profile just how useful it would become. It is and will continue to be a resource for us.

Toilet Water Line Fails Causing Water Damage to Home in Bethune South Carolina

8/15/2019 (Permalink)

A simple braided water line causes significant water damage to home.

Getting out of bed the last thing you expect is to find yourself stepping into water instead of your once dry floor. Out of instinct you immediately head into the bathroom where you discover the entire floor covered in water. You get the water shut off, and search for what caused all the water. After inspecting all the water lines, you discover the water supply line to the toilet has failed. The cost of the braided water line to the toilet is less than $10.00 and takes less than fifteen minutes to replace. A call to SERVPRO had a Water Mitigation Team onsite in less than an hour.

With the excess standing water removed SERVPRO strategically places the equipment to begin the drying process. Depending on the type of flooring and how sever the water damage will determine whether the flooring will have to be removed. Moisture meters will be used daily to ensure complete dryness throughout the water damaged areas. SERVPRO is your number on resource in times of disaster no matter how big, or small.

Fire Upstairs Cause of Water Damage Downstairs in Camden South Carolina

8/13/2019 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire cause of water damage in apartment directly below.

Without a doubt a fire has its own level of devastation, add to that the amount of water used throughout.  Now add the sitting water which has the potential to become a mold issue.  

Once a fire has started and the fire department has arrived, the situation becomes a fire, water job for SERVPRO. There are many factors that can delay the cleanup of a fire, or water job.  The goal at SERVPRO is to respond within an hour of receiving the call.   Once the fire scene has been turned over to SERVPRO we begin the cleanup process for the fire and water damage Upon completing the cleanup SERVPRO will perform a Mold Remediation to prevent mold damage from all the water that had infiltrated the apartment from the amount of water used to extinguish the fire in the upper apartment. Our goal at SERVPRO is to exceed your expectations and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Commercial Carpet Cleaning in Lugoff Helps Fulfill a Dream

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

A Commercial Carpet Cleaning put this customer one step closer to fulfilling a dream.

You have a dream, with that dream comes the vision, and you set out to achieve what is now a reality.  To open and run a commercial business requires careful planning.  

Part of this plan is to procure the proper commercial property to house your dream.  There are few commercial properties that fill your vision.  Also, you get a call and your heart skips a beat.  Somehow you know already this could be the one. 

You arrive, and there is no doubt you envision your business in the commercial property before you. 

As you survey the scene you realize the only thing wrong is the carpet cleaning that will be required. Without hesitation, nor realizing the late hour, you call SERVPRO to query the potential of a commercial carpet cleaning. 

Ecstatic that SERVPRO answered your call at almost 8:00 pm, and was happy to schedule an appointment to provide an estimate for a Commercial Carpet Cleaning. 

One week and 40,000 square feet of Commercial Carpet Cleaning completed, you’re on your way to hosting your Grand Opening. 

SERVPRO not only exceeds your expectations but helps fulfill dreams. #HereToHelp

Christmas Globe one of the few things salvaged from house fire in Kershaw South Carolina

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

While this globe came blackened, it was the clear tears of joy by the homeowner that made this priceless.

One unforgettable day the blare of fire sirens broke the silence, and the fire trucks rolling by kicked up a cloud of dust that was still floating to the ground as the fire trucks disappeared around the corner. I look around and see a thick black billowing cloud of smoke swirling its way into the clear blue sky. It only took a moment to realize the commotion was taking place in what was the vicinity of where I had spent my childhood years. As I jumped into my truck my phone began to ring causing my heart to skip a beat, and my stomach to jump into a knot. Fear washed over me as I rounded the corner and realized what once was my childhood home was completely engulfed in flames. Black smoke laced with yellow and orange flames did a wicked dance that had already enveloped the inside, and quickly consumed and claimed the outer structure of what had been a home once filled with laughter, and the smell of mom’s home cooking. 

The towns’ people were arriving and stood with their heads down praying that all would be well. As the rest of my family arrived, we hugged one another, tears freely running down our cheeks as we watched with broken hearts our childhood home disappear into the flickering flames.

We reached out to SERVPRO to handle what the firemen called a ‘board-up’ to protect and preserve what was remaining of the home.

After days of sifting through the rubble we discovered a Christmas Globe that had been part of our families Christmas decorations as far back as I could remember. Sobbing my sister contacted SERVPRO to see if there was any way possible to restore the completely blackened globe. No promises made by SERVPRO I dropped it off and prayed SERVPRO would be able to save the small, yet only remaining memory found in the rubble. A week later to my astonishment I received a call from SERVPRO asking me to stop by the office.

The knot in my stomach quickly disappeared and I broke into tears of joy as I looked at the beautifully restored Christmas Globe. That such a small item could bring so much heartfelt joy to our family, and I will always be grateful to SERVPRO for taking care of a small piece of our family history.

SERVPRO #HereToHelp 24/7/365

Stove Fire at Apartment Community in Camden South Carolina Affects Lower Unit

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

Unbeknownst to the tenant in the second floor apartment, a fire had broke out in the third floor apartment causing water damage, and smoke damage.

Living in an apartment community is to closely be adjoined with your neighbors. Whether it is a single story, or a multi-story building will determine the actual number of ways that you could be affected by your neighbor’s situation either with water, fire, or both.

A fire broke out on the upper floor apartment causing damage to the apartment directly below. Once the fire department arrives and puts out the fire using water, the water because of gravity flows down until a level surface is reached then flows outward. Beside the water damage, there is also smoke damage,

SERVPRO arrives on location and performs a pre-inspection to determine what will need to be done. Depending on the extent of the water and smoke damage will determine how much of the personal property will need to be cleaned or packed out. Fortunately for the tenant in the lower unit, the damage could have been far worse.

24/7/365 #HereToHelp

Lightning Strikes Home in Camden South Carolina

7/19/2019 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms roll through with lightning striking in many locations. Unfortunately for one family, their home was struck causing heavy fire damage.

A family relaxing at home one evening as a heavy thunderstorm rolled through were more than startled to hear a horrific crash above them.  Lightning had hit the roof and into the attic hitting the HVAC System. What ensued was a fire that spread throughout the attic, and into the home. There was extensive fire damage, smoke damage, and water damage.

SERVPRO provided a board up to protect the home from further outside elements.  With the cleanup process there are proper steps to take in order to make it "Like it never even happened." 

While an unfortunate situation, SERVPRO performed a Content Pack Out, Water Mitigation, Fire Damage, Smoke Damage, and Mold Remediation that had the customer saying how fortunate he was to have called SERVPRO who was definitely #HereToHelp. 

EXTREME HEAT HELP... Because SERVPRO Cares

7/19/2019 (Permalink)

The Heat Wave is on causing Extreme Heat. We care and want you to be safe. BE AWARE

So scientifically and medically there is an explanation as to why the humidity makes the heat so much harder on the body. Our body has its own cooling system, which works by producing perspiration or sweat. When to sweat or perspiration evaporate it gives the skin the cooling effect. We know that hot weather can tax the body, but did you know that High Humidity causes our physical cooling system to strain as the humidity makes it harder for the sweat to evaporate. Loss of lives due to Extreme Heat causes many to lose their lives each year. There is risk for each of us if not hydrating properly, but those at the highest risk are the young, sick, old and overweight

There are many illnesses in conjunction with Extreme Heat.  HEAT STROKE is caused by the body’s own air conditioning unit when it stops working. HEAT CRAMPS are muscle spasms that usually involve the legs and abdomen. This is the direct result of dehydration and can be the first sign someone is getting dangerously hot. HEAT EXHAUSTION is very serious, and more serious than cramps. The skin will be cold and clammy. The person needs cool cloths, and sips of water every 15 minutes. If there is vomiting, seek medical help.

At SERVPRO you are family, and we want you safe, and healthy. We Care. #HereToHelp #KeepCool #KeepHydrated

Front Seat to a Fire Alarm with No Fire in Lugoff South Carolina

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

The heat outside combined with the heat in the attic caused the sprinkler system to activate resulting in heavy water damage to the building.

When offered the front seat one imagines the shotgun theory loll.  Will unfortunately this front seat offer was more in line with a commercial sprinkler shower. 

Without a doubt all involved and privy to the water damage were absolutely dumbfounded at how such a major water loss had just occurred in a large commercial building. 

Did you know that there are different types of fire sprinkler heads?  I did not, yet was made aware that there is by the fire chief who responded with the fire department.  

The level of heat allowed by the heat of the ceiling attic triggered a full blown fire alarm to the fire department. 

Whether it’s a Commercial Fire, Commercial Water, Residential Water, or Residential Fire SERVPRO is ready to assist with your needs 24/7/365.  803-475-4500

SERVPRO Handles Your Commercial Carpet Cleaning Needs

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO we are #heretohelp make your dreams a reality. No job to large, or too small

You have a dream, with the dream comes the vision, and you set out to achieve what is now a reality.  To open and run a commercial business which in itself requires careful planning.  

Part of this plan is to procure the proper commercial property to house your dream.  There are few commercial properties that fill your vision.  Also, you get a call and your heart skips a beat.  Somehow you know already this could be the one. 

You arrive, and there is no doubt you envision your business in the commercial property before you. 

As you survey the scene you realize the only thing wrong is the carpet cleaning that will be required. Without hesitation, nor realizing the late hour, you call SERVPRO to query the potential of a commercial carpet cleaning. 

Ecstatic that SERVPRO answered your call at almost 8:00 pm, and was happy to schedule an appointment to provide an estimate for a Commercial Carpet Cleaning. 

One week and 40,000 square feet of Commercial Carpet Cleaning completed, your on your way to hosting your Grand Opening. 

SERVPRO not only meets your needs, we exceed your expectations. 

SERVPRO is your resource #24/7/365 

Broken Water Line Floods Office in Lancaster South Carolina

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

Water has flowed throughout the office.

Upon arriving to work in the morning the office manager was greeted by standing water that was caused by a failed water line into the break-room.  One call to SERVPRO had a crew there in less than an hour to begin the Water Mitigation Process.

Once there is a flood on the inside of a building, or home, the water will continue to flow until the source of the problem has been resolved.  Water flowing into the line will need to be shut off, or the entire water system will need to be shut off.  This will be done by contacting a plumber.

Whether it is for your business, or home that has experienced a water issue SERVPRO is available 24/7/365 to assist with your needs.

Faulty Fire Alarms Cause Flooding at a Medical Office in Lugoff South Carolina

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

No Fire but Lots of Water

SERVPRO like any other restoration company receives calls from time to time that causes one to step back and say, "You've got to be kidding". This is the exact response by SERVPRO upon arriving at a medical facility that had received a fire alert. The fire department was diligently searching for the fire that had caused the alarm. No flames were found, nor was there any indication of smoke, or anything smoldering. Perplexed as to what had caused the alarm, and all of the indoor Fire Sprinkler Heads to activate. The water source was turned off, but not before the interior had received extensive water damage. Ceilings had dropped, insulation heavily saturated with water now lay on the floor throughout the building. Looking into the waiting room at just the right angle one had the perception the floor had just received a top-notch coat of wax the glisten was so magnificent.

SERVPRO set up and began the task of extracting the water, and removing the debris caused by the water. Still no one was able to locate a fire, a hot spot, or smoldering object that would have caused the Fire Sprinkler Heads to activate the fire sprinkler system.

It was later determined that the high temperatures outside had caused even hotter temperature inside the highest points of the building, thus causing the Fire Sprinkler Heads to falsely believe the heat was from a fire.

SERVPRO responds 24/7/365 to fire, water, mold, and trauma.

Fire can sweep through a building quickly causing a lot of damage, and water can also be a costly loss as well.

SERVPRO responds to your needs. Call us 24/7/365 we are here to help.

Ice Maker Water Line the cause of Flooding at a Business in Lancaster South Carolina

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Small ice maker water line the cause of a flooded commercial building

SERVPRO responds to a commercial water loss that involved one small water line which caused the entire building to flood.  SERVPRO immediately began the process of water mitigation, and then proceeded to the dry out process. 

Once the initial shock of coming to work and finding literally the entire building floors covered in water, a call to SERVPRO, and figure out exactly how and why the ice maker water line had burst causing the entire building to flood. Just imagine the surprise once it was discovered the plumber had used a water line clearly labeled ‘do not use on ice maker water line’. Houston, we have a problem. Clearly no one had read the clear disuse instructions or choose to blatantly heed the warning. An issue to be resolved without a doubt, but the issue of flooding due to excess water in the building is being remedied by SERVPRO.

A Rolling Thunderstorm Wreaks Havoc On Home In Bethune South Carolina

6/26/2019 (Permalink)

Yes, the tree looks better in the yard in Bethune South Carolina

SERVPRO receives calls that vary from wind damage to water damage when heavy winds, and rain roll through.

Watching your favorite TV show one moment and staring through the leaves of the tree that an hour ago was looking nice right in your front yard.

Not sure what has you more frozen the sound of a loud roaring train that preceded the crash on your home, or the actual tree in your home.

Regardless, it’s a feeling that hangs on as you call SERVPRO to handle the situation. While the situation of a tree in your home is new to you, here at SERVPRO is familiar with a call that results from a tree falling on a home or business.

24/7/365 SERVPRO is here to meet your needs.

The Storm That Missed with My Dream Home in Bennettsville South Carolina

6/26/2019 (Permalink)

It's Official Our Home is on an Island in Bennettsville South Carolina

When buying your property, you were so excited at the prospect of sitting in the dawn of morning at the river right in front of your house and catching breakfast. The amenities of camping and the luxury of home making your life a dream come true. After several days of heavy rain what you once thought to be the perfect way of life turned into a nightmare that you hoped would be exactly that, a nightmare. Greatly concerned about the safety of your family you frantically begin the process of packing up the family, and whatever belonging you could fit into the car. Looking in the rearview mirror is the reflection of wakes from the tires as they forge through the flood waters; in your mind you know it should be your boat making those wakes, not your car. Water damage due to the rising flood waters went close to four feet inside the water damaged home.  The water damage affected most of the contents, yet SERVPRO was able to salvage water damaged paperwork using their unique drying process.  

The cliché that time is a healer is better suited to this type of occasion knowing SERVPRO is qualified to handle the flooded home once the waters have receded. So many belongings left behind many irreplaceable, yet just knowing that SERVPRO will do their best to preserve what the waters didn’t destroy.    

24/7/365 SERVPRO is ready to help after the storm.

Unattended Stove Cause of Fire at Home In Lancaster SC

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

It takes just moments for a fire to start. When it happens we are #HereToHelp
Summer is here and the long heated days we are experiencing, it is easy to start something as simple as a pot of beans on the stove and walk away. Might be it just too hot to stand there, and while you find comfort closer to a cooler part of the room, it is easy to get distracted and move onto another point of interest, and one certainly not as hot as standing by the stove. Now let’s not be too hard on ourselves as this is an occurrence that is quite common in most homes. Unfortunately over the sound of the television, and the conversation of others comes the obnoxious blast of the fire alarms, yes alarms as the smoke has fanned out to envelope the entire house. Panic sets in and you run for the kitchen only to find flames lapping at the cabinets and ceiling. Frantically you dial 911, grab what you can, if you can, and scramble for the closest door to head outside.

As you do a quick look around to be sure everyone has made it out safely, shock begins to set in, and your mind races to remember all that you still have in the house that is irreplaceable. The situation can only be classified as one filled with trauma, and raw emotions. With a sigh of relief you hear SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties assure you they are on their way.

While damage from the actual flames was confined mostly to the kitchen, you take notice of how the smoke has migrated throughout the entire home. Many unexpected issues from smoke and fire damage can be found. While walking through the home with SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties it becomes evident the actual amount of damage smoke can cause. You’ll notice discolored walls, or ash and soot on the floor, often depending on the water path used with the fire hose, this will be accompanied by a black sooty soggy film. Be mindful of the smell as you make your way through the house as smells can be produced which can cause side effects that can be harmful not only to surfaces, but your health as well. Keep in mind that there will be changes in what you are seeing, some immediately, and some over the next few hours, or even days.

Bathroom Water Line Floods Home In Rembert Causing Water Damage Throughout The Home

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage from a broken pipe in the bathroom manages to also affect the crawlspace.

While heading out of town your last thought is that you will return home to a blanket of water that has spread from the bathroom and made its way throughout the home. Due to the amount of time the water ran unnoticed played an important roll in the extent of water damage thought-out the home, also affecting the crawlspace under the home.

Once the water source is cut off it is critical to begin a Water Mitigation to avoid further water damage. In the proper setting mold can begin in a short amount of time. SERVPRO is available 24/7/365 to assist with your needs.

At SERVPRO we are #HereToHelp   If planning a trip be sure to check your water fixtures that supply the water to your home or business.

Water Damages Church in Camden South Carolina

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

Water Mitigation in progress at local church

It’s been a busy week so far, and the last thing expected was to open the office door for the church only to find a couple inches of water surrounded my feet. Looking for the source led me to a hot water heater that had a pipe break causing the water to run for hours. As a large church in the community our office sees many people in and out throughout the day. Once we had the water turned off, we were able to get SERVPRO in route so they could begin the water mediation.

Since the water had come up the walls, the bottom of the drywall was cut away to allow faster drying and eliminate the potential for mold. We were pleased with how quickly SERVPRO was able to do their water mitigation and handle the content pack out. While there was inconvenience, we appreciated how quickly SERVPRO was able to come in and do the Water Mitigation and perform a Mold Remediation.

24/7/365 #HereToHelp

Hot Water Heater Fails Causing Water Damage to Church in Camden SC

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damages Church After Hot Water Heater Fails

While my Monday began as most do, getting back into the weekly regiment after a nice long weekend can be a bit trying some Mondays.  I'm ready, team hat on, I forge through the office door smiling.

My smile quickly vanishes as I step into a flooded foyer looking more like a wading pool from all the water.  My mind is racing as I frantically search for the source of the water that has so graciously made itself into far more than a wading pool.  From the front door clear to the back door the water ripples with each step I take.  The normally quiet morning is filled with an unusual sound of water, and to my already pumping with adrenaline being, I find the water source upon opening the door to the hot water heater.  Like a dam just turned loose, the water rushed out of the closet. For a fleeting moment I had the thought of a dam affected by a flood as the water spewed out over and around my feet and legs giving the illusion of trees caught in its path.  

Shifting gears, I grabbed my iPhone and tapped on the ERP ICON. The ERP ICON represents EARLY READY PROGRAM that is offered and provided by SERVPRO. I was immediately able to click on the EMERGENCY WATER SHUTOFF NUMBER provided by SERVPRO in our companies EMERGENCY READY PROFILE.  Water shutoff issue handled, I next located the plumber’s number, then contacted SERVPRO who immediately helped to sooth my panic, and stress, as they are dispatching out a crew as we spoke.

Over the next few days SERVPRO was a much-appreciated presence in our office as they moved our CONTENTS, performed WATER MITIGATION, and DAILY MONITORING in the affected areas that were being dried.  SERVPRO was patient and understanding in explaining the entire process each step of the way.  Once the DRYING was completed, I watched in astonishment as each article of our contents was meticulously replaced to their original locations.

Reflecting back on what I have labeled "Not My Typical Monday" I know there were many factors that contributed to how that day started, and, how it ended.  I find great satisfaction in knowing that the main positive influential factor was and will remain SERVPRO.

Receiving the Nettles Award is James Plemons

5/16/2019 (Permalink)

The Nettles Award is given to James Plemons of SERVPRO

The Nettles award is given to a volunteer who has gone above and beyond for the chamber during the past year and is given in the memory of William F. Nettles Jr., a long-time businessman and chamber supporter. Virginia Locke, vice president of human resources at award sponsor First Palmetto Bank, joined Dixon in presenting the award to Plemons.

“Not only has (Plemons) volunteered business time and personnel, but also stepped in when we had the need for a last minute presenting sponsorship,” Dixon said. “More specifically, (he) and his team helped us clean out years of storage from the Robert Mills Courthouse, move items to storage and then move items to our new office. These were not easy tasks and took days to accomplish, but the wonderful volunteer gave willingly and often. Words cannot fully express our appreciation for (Plemons) and his team.”

Memorial Day Celebration 2019 a Reminder

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

Memorial Day 2019 Remembering our Armed Forces of yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

Memorial Day - legal holiday in the United States, last Monday in May, commemorates the members of the United States armed forces who were killed in war.  Formerly known as Decoration Day. (Webster's College Dictionary 2010)

This year the official day for Memorial Day is Monday May 27th, 2019. There are many events throughout the communities. We at SERVPRO hope you and your family enjoy this special day of tribute for the members of our Armed Forces.

Last year we traveled to Georgia where our family has a long history of military involvement.  The family being strong in faith, family, and country, shared prayers, hugs, and tears. This year will find us close to the Missouri River where so much history of the United States was made, and battles fought.

As one travels throughout the south, out of nowhere a memorial in the shape of a headstone stands out in the open.  These are landmarks where battles were fought, and lives lost.  There are movies recounting various battles where lives were lost, and heroes who humbly stood out, many under horrific circumstances.

My father served, my brother served, and my son is serving.  Each of us knows someone who has, or is serving, and each of us knows someone, or of someone who never made it home.

At SERVPRO we ask that as you reflect on Memorial Day for 2019 you continue to remember that our freedom was not free.  That you lift in your hearts those that kept us free, and those that are still battling to keep us free.

Unattended Stove Cause of House Fire in Lancaster South Carolina

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires are more common these days due to the many distractions before us. Call SERVPRO #HereToHelp

Every one of us at some point in time has opted to multitask cooking.  While this thought process can seem an innocent action in the grand scheme of life’s crazy schedules, it can also be deemed one of the most devastating, and costly.

SERVPRO has been called several times for kitchen fires that could have been avoided had the source been attended. It is so easy to set a pot on the stove only to leave the kitchen and get sidetracked with yet another distraction. In the blink of an eye your home can be enveloped by fire. You could be displaced from your home, belongs lost, treasured pictures, memories in the form of heirlooms, and daily needed articles damaged, or permanently destroyed. And yes, if we are going to be real here, the ultimate loss would be loss of life.

Here at SERVPRO we care, and to help you avoid a kitchen fire, I have listed below key elements that are fire-related hazards in a kitchen. Happy and safe cooking from all of us at SERVPRO.

Fire-related hazards in a kitchen include:

  • Flames, sparks and hot gases from food preparation can ignite residues in exhaust ducts
  • Food preparation equipment left without supervision during operation
  • Failure to switch-off equipment, especially at the end of activity
  • Overheated oils that can lead to spontaneous combustion
  • Food preparation equipment based on solid fuels
  • Gas blowtorches used for browning some foods
  • Poorly operating thermostats or lack of thermostat or fault-detecting equipment
  • Faulty or overheating electrical equipment
  • Metal exhaust flues that conduct heat and ignite nearby material or debris
  • Ovens without igniters/pilot lights (lit with burning pieces of paper).

SERVPRO and Mother's Day 2019

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

All of us at SERVPRO wish you a Happy Mother's Day

SERVPRO is not just a business, we are a family in unity working as a team to help our community, friends, and family, should the need arise. As Team SERVPRO we have Mothers who help to make our awesome team.

While the celebration of Motherhood can be traced back to the ancient Greeks, and Romans, the precedent for the modern Mother’s Day was held as a Christian festival known as “Mothering Sunday”   Around the world Mother’s Day is celebrated on different dates, and the celebration signifies the tradition of that culture.

Here in America we still celebrate the mother, and the use of ‘Mother’ is not set in stone in regards to who we call a ‘Mother’   I am a mother of children who are all grown and gone with their own children, but I’m not cut short as I have a four legged baby, so Dad and Boo will handle the day while I relax lol

All of us at SERVPRO wish you and yours a Happy Mother’s Day, and if you need us we are available 24/7/365.   It’s an unfortunate reality but a holiday does not stop the potential for fire damage, water damage, or a situation that requires immediate attention.

Hurricane Florence Cause of Heavy Water Damage In Bennetsville South Carolina

3/27/2019 (Permalink)

Storm Causes Water Damage to a Business

During Hurricane Season there is a certain level of anxiety that blankets the community.  The need to keep plenty of food available, is there enough water, do we have resources if we lose power.  There is the constant watching of what direction the storm is headed. As can happen the storm took an unpredicted turn, and headed directly into Bennetsville South Carolina.  Being a historical community where the older buildings are utilized for daily business activities.  SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties received a call reporting water damage to a business.  We were able to stop further water damage, and begin the dry out process. Due to the water damage to documents, we did a packout of the documents, and utilized our Doucument Restoration Division.  #heretohelp

Spring is Here. Call to Schedule Your Spring Carpet Cleaning

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is your resource for cleaning up after winter. Get ready for Spring.

On a normal day we trek in and out of the house, or office.  We follow the carpet path that leads to the couch, bathroom, bedroom, and of course, the front or back door, or, your desk to the back dor.  I would say the majority of us has someone cute whether it be a young one, or a pet that is making headway with their own trails, and silly spots found in odd locations throughout the home, or business. 

Work pups at the office are not uncommon these days  it’s just feels great to know whether at home, or work, we are here to help  

At SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties we specialize in carpet cleaning, and spot removal.  No job to large, or to small, each treated with the same professional cleaning you deserve. At SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties we have certified technicians to take care of your carpets.

We are here to help you clean up after cute has run through.

Call SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties to get your quote for a carpet cleaning  

Hurricane Florence Leaves Many With Needing a Duct Cleaning.

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

While Spring is here it is the remnants of hurricanes that remind us it is important to clean or ducts in the home, and office.

Once Hurricane Florence rolled through, the need for a duct cleaning in homes, and businesses became apparent. Water, and debris had compromised the integrity of the HVAC systems.All too often when dusting the home, or business only to walk back in the room an hour later and find a coating of dust once again has come to rest where you just dusted. Or you wonder why the heating and/or air conditioning unit seems to be running for longer periods of time.  You change the filters as required, but without realizing it, you've neglected to clean your ducts which run the air throughout the system in your work place, or home. Keeping your HVAC system cleaned. on a regular maintenance schedule can also help reduce the chances of a fire.

While we are experiencing some very warm weather out there, it is time to schedule a cleaning for your Air Ducts and HVAC system.  SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is scheduling appointments now.  Call today to schedule your Air Ducts and HVAC system cleaning.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is here to help with your needs.

Lancaster County School District Appreciates SERVPRO

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties Worked with our Extreme Team To Get The Kids Back in Class

It is never easy to let your kids know that their school has suffered a fire. As parents it is tough to realize your routine has just taken a turn. There is so much community appreciation and gratification in knowing that SERVPRO helped to get kids, and parents to their routine.  If you missed what happened I’ve provided a recap of what happened.  The small community located between Kershaw and Heath Springs, South Carolina, was startled and surprised to hear a major fire had broken out at Andrew Jackson Middle School late Thursday evening. The Kershaw Volunteer Fire Department was the first to respond, and other departments joined in giving the night sky a smoky illusion with over twenty fire vehicle lights lighting the smoke filled night.

Thankfully no one was hurt, and it was determined that the fire began in a custodian's storage closet.  I was afforded the opportunity to walk the dark wet smoke filled halls this morning and see first-hand the extent of damage.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is there already working to restore the school back to "Like it never even happened." status.  Crews will be working around the clock until the cleanup is completed. 

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties would like to thank all the responders for their diligence and hard work to cut short what could have been a horrible loss to our community.

Carpet Cleaning We Get It

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

We are prepared to get rid of the winter path on your carpets.

At SERVPRO of Kershaw Lancaster Counties we get the fact that carpets need to be cleaned. The fact that company might be coming to visit, and we all want our homes to look the best. At SERVPRO of Kershaw Lancaster Counties we offer the best cleaning we cleaning.  We clean your carpets like we’re cleaning our own. When company comes there is no hiding spots by the furniture.  We are all in with you.  We have customers we receive calls from a regular basis to help assure them their company will ask where they got their new carpets. Call today to schedule your professional carpet cleaning.  24/7/365 we are ready to assist with your needs.  And if you need it, we will find a way to exceed your expectations.  803-475-7500. 

Pool Pump Causes House Fire in Camden South Carolina

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Pool Pump Location can be a Fire hazard

If there is a cause of fire one would surely never ponder, it’s a fire caused by a pool pump.  The motor over heating can easily cause a failure, but even a little backup can cause pressure which creates more of an explosive device. Placed too close to the home a fire hazard can be created, as is the case with this pool pump.  Fortunately, there was no one in the home at the time, but the fire damage while not a complete loss was quite extensive causing the family to be displaced.  When installing a pool with a pump,  it is important to be mindful of which direction the pool pump faces, and how close it is to the home.  At SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties we are prepared for your emergency whether it be fire, water, or smoke.  

24/7/365 803-475-7500

Medical Faciliy In Camden South Carolina Had Water Damage Due to Water Filter Failure

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Small Water Pump Causes Major Water Damage

Generally once lunch is over on Friday, we start making sure we’ve tied up loose ends so there is nothing hung up over the weekend, and come Monday we are prepared for what rolled in over the weekend.  One thing that is for certain, we don’t plan on walking in the office feeling like we should have worn our rain boots.  At the end of the hall it’s a flow of water that catches you eye and motivates a quicker pace to find the source.  The water filter had failed causing water to continuously flow all weekend throughout the office.  With the water source turned off, and SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties on the way to make it "Like it never even happened."  At SERVPRO we understand the importance of getting you back to business. 

Water Damages Cherrywood Flooring in Camden South Carolina

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Proper Way to Dry Cherrywood Flooring that has water damage

When it comes to water damage, the source can come from a room where water is used on a daily basis.  Also, water damage is not exactly top priority for older homes, or businesses.  Even a newly built home, or business can fall victim to a failure in the plumbing, or water lines.  A homeowner in a newly built home woke to a toilet that the water had continued to run all night.  This constant flow went out of the bathroom, continued down the hall, and into the dining area.  Initial reaction is to shut off the water source to the toilet, and call SERVPRO who, with their highly trained technicians, is able to begin immediately with a water mitigation, and begin the drying process.  The homeowners, while disappointed with the toilet failure, were extremely happy with the end result, and the limited loss to the beautiful flooring.  

Water Damages Business in Camden South Carolina

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Using the proper drying method for water damage

Most of the larger commercial buildings host a break room for the employees use, and with that there will generally be a hot water heater.  A small valve on the hot water heater failed causing water damage in the break room, and the hallway leading to it.  While the heaviest water was located in the break room, the water flowed down the hallway as well.  It is important when dealing with water mitigation that not just the floors are addressed, but the walls as well.  Drywall acts as a wick, and will draw the water up into the walls.  At SERVPRO, our technicians are trained to test the moisture in the floors and walls.  Once it is determined that the walls have water damage, a barrier is installed for drying purposes.

24/7/365 We are prepared to get you back in business as quickly as possible.

Chilly Temps in Kershaw and Lancaster Counties can Lead to Fire Damage

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Space Heaters can warm, but improperly used in the least can cause #firedame and at the most #trauma. Be safe when using a space heater

With the chilly weather upon us so is the potential for families and or businesses turning to heating resources they feel might be beneficial in helping to heat a home, or business.

Statically billions are spent each year, yes each year, on damage caused by fires.  Lives are lost, and many are injured.

  • In the winter time the rural communities will utilize portable space heaters, wood stoves, and kerosene heaters.  Unfortunately it is a common risk taken without the complete understanding of the fire potential should any of these be used improperly. With a fire, comes water used to put out the fire.  Without proper cleanup from the fire and water, comes the potential of mold.  

Below are some winter safety tips, and general fire prevention tips to help keep you, your families, and homes safe.

  • Space heaters need space---keep furniture and objects away
  • Electric space heaters must be plugged directly into a wall outlet---NOT AN EXTENSION CORD
  • Appliances must be plugged directly into the wall outlet, not an extension cord to avoid the potential of an electrical fire. 
  • NEVER use gasoline in kerosene heaters, or camp stove oil units.
  • NEVER fill a heating unit when hot
  • Be sure your chimney is clean before using, and that your damper is working properly
  • Use an insert or heavy screen to prevent hot embers from leaving the fireplace compartment, and keep logs from rolling out
  • ALWAYS allow ashes to cool before removing, and ALWAYS place ashes inside a metal container.  Always store ash containers at least 10 feet from buildings
  • NEVER leave food cooking, or candles burning unattended.
  • NEVER use a grill as a heat source inside the home, or business.
  • ALWAYS use portable generators outside away from doors and windows, NEVER use inside of enclosed areas of a home or buildings.
  • Make sure you have working smoke alarms outside of each sleeping area, and at least one carbon monoxide alarm in the home.

If you are in need of smoke detectors either call or stop by your local fire department and they will be happy to provide what is needed in your home at no cost.  If you are unable to install, they will be happy to assist and install for you.

We at SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties wish you a safe and warm winter.  Should you have any questions, or are in need  of assistance please feel free to contact us.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties IS YOUR NUMBER ONE RESOURCE FOR FIRE, WATER, AND MOLD REMEDIATION.

803-475-7500

Hot Water Heater Fails in Camden SC causing major Water Damage to Office

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Failure of a Hot Water Heater Causes Major Commercial Water Damage

The day started off just as any typical Monday morning for me. Getting back into the weekly regiment after a nice long weekend, alarms clocks going off, the hustle and bustle of finding a matching sock, or the left shoe the dog seems to have stashed in with his favorite toys.  Lunches packed, backpacks double checked, all good so far.  Breakfast on the run, or should I say ride, as the kids pile in the Mommy van for the trek to school.  The next twenty minutes are a mixture of mommy, mommy, and my voice rising about the chatter with my ‘don't forgets’.  All said and done, not a bad start for a Monday morning.  Fifteen minutes of quiet is mine, it’s the time I use to prepare for the day ahead.  I'm ready, team hat on, I forge through the office door smiling.

My smile quickly vanishes as I step into a flooded foyer looking more like a wading pool from all the water.  My mind is racing as I frantically search for the source of the water that has so graciously made itself into far more than a wading pool.  From the front door clear to the back door the water ripples with each step I take.  The normally quiet morning is filled with an unusual sound of water, and to my already pumping with adrenaline being, I find the water source upon opening the door to the hot water heater.  Like a dam just turned loose, the water rushed out of the closet. For a fleeting moment I had the thought of a dam affected by a flood as the water spewed out over and around my feet and legs giving the illusion of trees caught in its path.  

Shifting gears I grabbed my IPhone and tapped on the ERP ICON. The ERP ICON represents EARLY READY PROGRAM that is offered, and provided by SERVPRO. I was immediately able to click on the EMERGENCY WATER SHUTOFF NUMBER provided by SERVPRO in our companies EMERGENCY READY PROFILE.  Water shutoff issue handled, I next located the plumber’s number, also provided by SERVPRO in our EMERGENCY READY PROFILE. Next I contacted SERVPRO who immediately helped to sooth my panic, and stress, as they are dispatching out a SERVPRO CERTIFIED WATER MITIGATION CREW as we spoke.

Over the next few days SERVPRO was a much appreciated presence in our office as they moved our CONTENTS, performed WATER MITIGATION, and DAILY MONITORING in the affected areas.  SERVPRO was patient, and understanding in explaining the entire process each step of the way.  Once the DRYING was completed, I watched in astonishment as each article of our contents was meticulously replaced to their original locations.

Reflecting back on what I have labeled "Not My Typical Monday" I know there were many factors that contributed to how that day started, and, how it ended.  I find great satisfaction in knowing that the main positive influential factor was, and will remain SERVPRO OF KERSHAW AND LANCASTER COUNTIES.  Little did I know, or realize, when I signed up for the SERVPRO EARLY READY PROFILE PROGRAM just how useful it would become. It is, and will continue to be a resource for us.

IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW WOULD LIKE TO HAVE THEIR OWN EARLY READY PROFILE feel free to contact SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties.  

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #water #storm #flood #frozenpipes #trauma #commercialwaterdamage #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #teamSERVPRO #community #ERP #earlyreadyprofile 

803-475-7500

Kershaw and Lancaster Counties Begin Stocking up on Socks for the Needy

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

It’s Never Too Early To Start Saving. This year were looking to exceed our first two collections. This is an annual event and were happy you help

While fire. water, and frozen pipes can effect a home or business the needs of many are affected differently by the fire, water, and frozen pipes winter can cause.

Winter is a time of year when whether you have a home or not, socks are a crucial part of your attire.  Unfortunately for many this is not to be as they can't afford to buy socks, and rely on shelters to help keep their feet warm.

SERVPRO OF Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is ASKING OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES TO HELP US SOCK UP THOSE IN NEED BY DONATING ONE PACK OF SOCKS.

  • COLDEST WINTER IN YEARS
  • SOCKS GOING TO THE HOMELESS SHELTERS
  • MEN ** WOMEN **
  • CHILDREN ** INFANTS **

SERVPRO WILL BE PICKING UP SOCKS  Beginning in January 2020 DON’T FORGET TO MARK YOU’RE CALENDER!!

           DON'T TAKE A SEAT!

           LET’S WARM SOME FEET…..

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #water #storm #flood #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #teamSERVPRO #community #wintersockdrive

803-475-7500

Kershaw SC is the home of the newly rebuilt Stevens Park

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Summer 2019 will reap the benefits of Stevens Park and the amazing community rebuild

One year later and we are excited to have our community park ready for full use during this Spring and Summer season. We at SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties are excited to have taken part in the rebuilding of Stevens Park located in Kershaw, South Carolina.

This is a park loved, and utilized by many in our community.  Unfortunately in the spring of 2017 it was discovered the protective weather coating used on the equipment failed, and due to weather conditions the equipment quickly deteriorated causing immediately closure of the park for safety reasons.  We are ecstatic to have resolved the issue  

The History of Kershaw is the park theme, and will focus on the needs of all. Utilizing the old footprint of the park, we are excited to see the heritage of our history a place we can enjoy daily.  There will be more accessibility for those with needs affording each of us the ability to play together.

The community has come together as a whole from fund raising events, to enlisting volunteers to help with the upkeep of the park  

Great news for those who would like to sponsor a component of the park by either an individual group, or business.  Your donation is 100% tax deductible. Donations are needed year round to help with the park upkeep  

See you there! 

Almost a year since the fire at Andrew Jackson School in Kershaw SC

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

One year later and the Andrew Jackson School is happy to have utilized the services of SERVPRO for the heavy smoke damage throughout the school.

The small community located between Kershaw, and Heath Springs South Carolina were startled and surprised to hear a major fire had broken out at Andrew Jackson Middle School late Thursday evening. The Kershaw Volunteer Fire Department were the first to respond, and other departments joined in giving the night sky a smoky illusion with over twenty fire vehicle lights lighting the smoked filled night.

Thankfully no one was hurt, and it was determined that the fire began in a custodians storage closet.  I was afforded the opportunity to walk the dark wet smoke filled halls this morning and see first-hand the extent of damage.

SERVPRO of Kershaw & Lancaster Counties are there already working to restore the school back to "Like it never even happened" status.  Crews will be working around the clock until the cleanup is completed. 

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties would like to thank all the responders for their diligence and hard work to cut short what could of been a horrible loss to our community.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #smokedamage #water #waterdamage #storm #flood #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

Emergency Ready Plan Useful With Trauma Cleanup at Apartments in Camden South Carolina

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Emergency Ready Plan Eases the Call for Trauma Cleanup at Apartments in Camden South Carolina

There is no easy way to describe trauma whether it is accidental, or intentional.  A call came in one morning and the caller was to say the least very distraught, bewildered, and her raw emotion was heartbreaking.  She manages one of the larger apartment communities in Camden, South Carolina, and overnight there was an incident at one of the units that began on the second floor and came to an end on the first floor.  While it is a call no one wants to make, or take, it is an unfortunate reality.  

My first response was to assure her that it’s going to be ok, that we can handle everything once the unit was released into her custody.  While I had her on the phone, I pulled up Emergency Ready Plan which allowed me to have a visual on which building required the trauma cleanup.  I assured her that our trained technicians would be in route to her shortly.  Suddenly, she let out a sigh and said, 'thank you so much, I feel better already just talking with you'.

Our technicians were dispatched out once I had provided the information regarding the required access entrance, and where to park that I had obtained when I did their Emergence Ready Profile.  The compassion, the response time, the Emergency Ready Plan, were all key in making it "Like it never even happened" 

Mold Remediation at Church in Kershaw County South Carolina

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Mold on High at Church in Kershaw County South Carolina

Churches like many things in life come in many different shapes and sizes, and the craftsmanship is of many different levels.  The church pictured is crafted in a geometric fashion, with the wood grain adding to the beauty.

While the eye is keen to appreciate the craftsmanship, and beauty of the wood grain in itself leaves one in awe.

At worship service one weekend a Deacon while giving praise realized that the ceiling above was turning dark, and the darkest was in the middle.

Without hesitation we called SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties who had handled a water loss, and a fire loss in the past. Naturally it made sense to contact SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties for a mold issue.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties was quick to respond to our call, and in no time they were set up with a lift to reach the highest peak of the ceiling, and performing a mold remediation.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is available 24/7/365 to handle your needs whether it be Water, Fire, Mold, or Trauma. 803-475-7500

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #smokedamage #contentscleaning #biohazmat #water #waterdamage #storm #stormdamage #flood #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

Mold In Crawlspace found at Home in Lancaster South Carolina

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Improper Heating Ducts Cause Mold Issue Needing Mold Remediation

Times are difficult for a lot of folks especially once they realize a handyman might not of been too handy when it came to fixing an issue with the heating ducts under the crawlspace of their home.

We received a call about a heavy mold smell inside the home.  SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties sent their highly qualified technicians to find the source of the mold smell.  Upon inspection of the crawlspace it was quickly determined that the heating ducts had been detached.  This caused too much moisture under the home, which became a mold issue.  SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties provided a mold remediation to resolve the mold issue.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #water #mold #flood #biohazmat #contents #lightningdamage #watermitigation #moldremediation #contentscleaning #lightningdamage #waterdamage #smokedamage #storm #stormdamage #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #commercialfiredamage #residentialfiredamage SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

Mold Remediation at Home in Lancaster South Carolina

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Using anti-microbial for mold remediation is utilized at a home.

These days to just hear the word mold is enough to make one listen to see how it might affect them.  It seems all too often calls come in regarding either the smell, or what appears to be a presence of mold.  Yes it sounds scary, and it looks scary, and by all means it smells yucky.  Mold can cause health issues without one even realizing that it is the mold causing the problem.

At SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties our certified technicians are ready to help resolve your mold issues once it is determined it is indeed mold, and what was the cause of the mold in the first place.  We use an anti-microbial to clean up the mold.  Our goal is to get you back to the comfort of home 'Like it never even happened".

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #water #mold #flood #biohazmat #contents #lightningdamage #watermitigation #moldremediation #contentscleaning #lightningdamage #waterdamage #smokedamage #storm #stormdamage #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #commercialfiredamage #residentialfiredamage SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

Frozen Water Pipe Causes Damage to Home in Lancaster South Carolina

11/26/2018 (Permalink)

Frozen Water Pipe Damages Home In Lancaster South Carolina

With winter here, and the temperatures dropping, we are already beginning to see, and hear about frozen pipes, which lead to water damage. Frozen water pipes are a reoccurring issue which occurs once the temperatures drop below freezing. Statistically it is proven that frozen pipes are one of the biggest risks of property damage when the temperature drops. This is more prevalent in regions where the temperature can significantly drop. Lower temperatures can cause the water to expand, which puts pressure on the pipes, or storage container, causing the pipe to break, or container to burst. Once there is a compromise to the water system, or storage unit the ensuing water can cause water damage, and potentially turn into an emergency.

First the home or business with the water damage must quickly be evaluated for the safety of anyone in the home, or business. Be sure there is nothing electric in, or around the water damage to cause either an electrical fire, or electrocution. Make sure there are no ‘slip and fall’ hazards. If it is not safe, keep out and dial 911 for help. Once all is secure regarding safety precautions, shut off the water if you can. 

Call SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties for water damage to your home, or business. 

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #water #mold #flood #biohazmat #contents #lightningdamage #watermitigation #moldremediation #contentscleaning #lightningdamage #waterdamage #smokedamage #storm #stormdamage #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

Food for the Soul Food Pantry in Camden South Carolina

11/26/2018 (Permalink)

2nd Annual Thanksgiving Food Collection for the Soul in Camden South Carolina a Success

At SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties we enjoy being part of a great community, and we have an outlook that is more of family, helping family.  If you know of someone in need, please feel free to contact us that we might be of assistance in providing resources.

The mission of Food for the Soul is to serve as a Christ-like ministry to meet the basic needs of the hungry and homeless in Kershaw county

Large cans of food!  Fresh vegetables, fruit, and meats!  Large bags of rice, pastas, grits, sugar, flour!  Large containers of coffee and creamer! Warm weather coats, gloves, hats, sleepwear!  Detergent and cleaning supplies!  Toilet paper and paper towels!!  And of course, monetary donations are always needed to keep the power on!

EMERGENCY SERVICES – COLD WEATHER SERVICES

Food for The Soul offers overnight sheltering 7 days a week. Our overnight services are provided for victims of domestic violence, flood, fire, those that have been evicted and have nowhere else to go, and those that are chronically homeless.

The hours are from 7 pm- 7 am. Identification is needed. An initial intake must be completed.

A light evening meal is provided. Clean clothing will be given for sleepwear and showers will be provided along with hygiene products. A clean cot and all bedding will be supplied. Coffee will be provided in the morning, and guests can return at 9am for breakfast.

FOOD SERVICES

Hot meals are served Tuesday – Friday 12pm – 1pm.  A light breakfast is also available those days.  Emergency Shelter guests receive a simple, hot meal at 7:30pm.

 At SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties we have partnered with our community in helping to meet the needs of our food banks. Our 2nd Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive was a success, and we want to thank all who took part in contributing to the food collections.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #water #mold #flood #biohazmat #contents #lightningdamage #watermitigation #moldremediation #contentscleaning #lightningdamage #waterdamage #smokedamage #storm #stormdamage #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

Kerosene Heaters Can Cause Fire Damage in Kershaw and Lancaster Counties South Carolina

11/26/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties Provide Safety Tips to Help You Warm Up Wisely

At SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties we care about you, and your families safety. 

Winter is upon us, and so is the potential for families and or businesses turning to heating resources they feel might be beneficial in helping to heat a home, or business.

Statically billions are spent each year, yes each year, on damage caused by fires. Lives are lost, and many are injured.

  • In the winter time the rural communities will utilize portable space heaters, wood stoves, and kerosene heaters. Unfortunately it is a common risk taken without the complete understanding of the fire potential should any of these be used improperly.

Below are some winter safety tips, and general fire prevention tips to help keep you, your families, and homes safe.

  • Space heaters need space---keep furniture and objects away
  • Electric space heaters must be plugged directly into a wall outlet---NOT AN EXTENSION CORD
  • Appliances must be plugged directly into the wall outlet, not an extension cord to avoid the potential of an electrical fire. 
  • NEVER use gasoline in kerosene heaters, or camp stove oil units.
  • NEVER fill a heating unit when hot
  • Be sure your chimney is clean before using, and that your damper is working properly
  • Use an insert or heavy screen to prevent hot embers from leaving the fireplace compartment, and keep logs from rolling out
  • ALWAYS allow ashes to cool before removing, and ALWAYS place ashes inside a metal container. Always store ash containers at least 10 feet from buildings
  • NEVER leave food cooking, or candles burning unattended.
  • NEVER use a grill as a heat source inside the home, or business.
  • ALWAYS use portable generators outside away from doors and windows, NEVER use inside of enclosed areas of a home or buildings.
  • Make sure you have working smoke alarms out side of each sleeping area, and at least one carbon monoxide alarm in the home.

If you are in need of smoke detectors either call or stop by your local fire department and they will be happy to provide what is needed in your home at no cost. If you are unable to install, they will be happy to assist and install you.

We at SERVPRO of KERSHAW & LANCASTER COUNTIES wish you a safe and warm winter. Should you have any questions, or are in need  of assistance please feel free to contact us.

SERVPRO OF KERSHAW & LANCASTER COUNTIES IS YOUR NUMBER ONE RESOURCE FOR FIRE, WATER, AND MOLD REMEDIATION.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties Want to Work With the Comuunity to Warm the Feet of Those in Need

11/26/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties Working With The Community To Sock in the Winter

SOCK DRIVE

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties will be holding our 2nd Annual Sock in the Winter Collection.  

Men, Women, and Children all need socks, and with the temperatures reaching freezing levels, its imperative that we come together to help those in need. Sock distribution will be as follows;

Christian Services - K.A.R.E. - Food for The Soul

Kerrie Rice will be passing out flyers advising collection dates.  SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is humbly blessed to work with a community with so much heart.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #water #mold #flood #biohazmat #contents #lightningdamage #watermitigation #moldremediation #contentscleaning #lightningdamage #waterdamage #smokedamage #storm #stormdamage #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community #sockdrive          803-475-7500

Severe Storms Roll Through Lancaster South Carolina Leaving a Home With Fire Damage Due to Lightning Strike

11/25/2018 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Lancaster and Kershaw Counties South Carolina.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties Responds to a Fire Damaged Home from a lightning strike during a storm in Lancaster South Carolina Caused by Storm That Rolled Through.  The evening was filled with high winds, rain, and heavy rounds of lightning strikes. Any one of these elements can cause major damage to a home or business.  A tree falling on a home or business can bring the rains into the home, or business causing water damage, and as we see in the south, lightning strikes are an unfortunate part of a storm rolling through.  With a lightning strike on a home or business the level of the incident suddenly moves to a whole new level.  You now have lightning damage, which includes fire damage, and water damage.  Bottom line, it is quite overwhelming to process how one lightning strike can cause so much damage. 

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response Time with Crews Ready 24/7/365

We are locally owned and operated enabling us to respond quicker with the proper resources tailored to fit your particular circumstances, which is extremely important.  A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties Has The Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Lancaster and Kershaw Counties, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties 803-475-7500

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #water #mold #flood #biohazmat #contents #lightningdamage #watermitigation #moldremediation #contentscleaning #lightningdamage #waterdamage #smokedamage #storm #stormdamage #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

Water Damage Caused by Hurricane in Orange Texas

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Lancaster and Kershaw Counties South Carolina.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties Responds to a water damaged home from a Hurricane that brought significant amounts of wind and rain damage. We all knew the hurricane was coming, but how does one truly prepare their home for the high rising water knowing the water damage will be horrific. One can only pack up the family, what is of importance and pray upon returning home the water damage is less than expected. Once the area is considered passable you return to your home, or business to find the water has damaged your home, and contents. 

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response Time with Crews Ready 24/7/365

We are locally owned and operated enabling us to respond quicker with the proper resources tailored to fit your particular circumstances, which is extremely important.  A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties Has The Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Lancaster and Kershaw Counties, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties 803-475-7500

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #water #mold #flood #biohazmat #contents #lightningdamage #watermitigation #moldremediation #contentscleaning #lightningdamage #waterdamage #smokedamage #storm #stormdamage #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

Ready For Open House in Lugoff South Carolina

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Carpeting in Lugoff South Carolina

You have a dream, with the dream comes the vision, and you set out to achieve what is now a reality.  To open and run a commercial business requires careful planning.  

Part of this plan is to procure the proper commercial property to house your dream.  There are few commercial properties that fill your vision.  Also, you get a call and your heart skips a beat.  Somehow you know already this could be the one. 

You arrive, and there is no doubt you envision your business in the commercial property before you. 

As you survey the scene you realize the only thing wrong is the carpet cleaning that will be required. Without hesitation, nor realizing the late hour, you call SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties to query the potential of a commercial carpet cleaning. 

Estatic that SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties answered your call at almost 8:00 pm, and was happy to schedule an appointment to provide an estimate for a Commercial Carpet Cleaning. 

One week and 40,000 square feet of Commercial Carpet Cleaning completed, your on your way to hosting your Grand Opening. 

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties not only meets your needs, but helps fulfill dreams. 

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #smokedamage #water #waterdamage #storm #stormdamage #flood #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

Front Seat In Lancaster South Carolina Commercial Water Loss

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

Yes the seats empty for a first hand view of a commercial water loss in Lancaster South Carolina

When offered the front seat one imagines the shottgun theory lol. Let’s load up and go for a ride woo hoo.  Will unfortunately this front seat offer was more in line with a commercial sprinkler shower. 

Without a doubt all involved and privy to the water damage were absolutely dumbfounded at how such a major water loss had just occurred in a large commercial building. 

Did you know that there are different types of fire sprinkler heads?  I did not, yet was made aware that there is by the fire chief who responded with the fire department.  

The level of heat allowed by the heat of the ceiling attic triggered a full blown fire alarm to the fire department. 

Whether it’s a Commercial Fire, Commercial Water, Residential Water, or Residential Fire SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is ready to assist with your needs 24/7/365.  803-475-4500

We call shotgun ??

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #smokedamage #water #waterdamage #storm #stormdamage #flood #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

Finding a new home to purchase and mold in Lancaster and Kershaw Counties of South Carolina

6/26/2018 (Permalink)

Mold found under a window in a house for sale in Lancaster South Carolina

Buying a new home can be stressful. What would you do if you were in the middle of buying your first home and found mold? Who do you call first? Who can help? SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is here to help. Let SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties take some of the stress off of you as the realtor or homeowner. SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties can come out and inspect home for visible signs of mold. If mold is found SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties can take the necessary steps to treat and kill mold. SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties can get you back to enjoying the home buying process quickly.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is here to help from start to finish 24/7/365 we are here to meet your needs.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #smokedamage #water #waterdamage #storm #stormdamage #flood #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

The Storm That Missed With My Dream In Bennetsvile South Carolina

6/26/2018 (Permalink)

It's Official Were An Island in Bennettsville South Carolina

When buying your property you were so excited at the prospect of sitting in the dawn of morning at the river right in front of your house and catching breakfast. The amenities of camping and the luxury of home making your life a dream come true. After several days of heavy rain what you once thought to be the perfect way of life turned into a nightmare that you hoped would be exactly that, a nightmare. Greatly concerned about the safety of your family you frantically begin the process of packing up the family, and whatever belonging you could fit into the car. Looking in the rearview mirror is the reflection of wakes from the tires as they forge through the flood waters; in your mind you know it should be your boat making those wakes, not your car. Water damage due to the rising flood waters went close to four feet inside the water damaged home.  The water damage affected most of the contents, yet SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties was able to salvage water damaged paperwork using their unique drying process.  

The cliché that time is a healer is better suited to this type of occasion knowing SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is qualified to handle the flooded home once the waters have receded. So many belongings left behind many irreplaceable, yet just knowing that SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties will do their best to preserve what the waters didn’t destroy.    

24/7/365 SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is ready to help after the storm.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #smokedamage #water #waterdamage #storm #stormdamage #flood #contents #salvagepaperwork #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

Camden/Kershaw County Fire Fest in South Carolina

6/25/2018 (Permalink)

Fun Filled Parade with Fire Trucks in Camden South Carolina

The 23rd Annual Fire Fest kicks off Fire Prevention Week!  This is going to be a fun-filled day with the Kershaw County's first responders.

Fire Fest is an annual event that takes place every year on the last Saturday in September. It is a great way to get involved in the community, and meet local people. It consists of a parade of emergency vehicles through downtown Camden and ends at Rhame Arena. Come see the antique fire trucks, let the kids play games, see demonstrations, watch firefighter competitions and local entertainment. This event is free so that citizens and visitors can learn about the importance of fire prevention and fire safety. Fire Fest is the kick off for Fire Prevention Week.

We are excited to join in the 2019 Celebration 

For more information about this year's Fire Fest, please contact the Camden Fire Department at (803) 425-6040. 

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is here 24/7/365 to help with your needs.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #smokedamage #water #waterdamage #storm #stormdamage #flood #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

Unattended Stove Cause of Fire at a Home in Lancaster South Carolina

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

Small Pan Large Fire in Lancaster South Carolina

UNATTENDED STOVE FIRE Part 1

With summer just around the corner, and the long heated days we are experiencing, it is easy to start something as simple as a pot of beans on the stove and walk away. Might be it just too hot to stand there, and while you find comfort closer to a cooler part of the room, it is easy to get distracted and move onto another point of interest, and one certainly not as hot as standing by the stove. Now let’s not be too hard on ourselves as this is an occurrence that is quite common in most homes. Unfortunately over the sound of the television, and the conversation of others comes the obnoxious blast of the fire alarms, yes alarms as the smoke has fanned out to envelope the entire house. Panic sets in and you run for the kitchen only to find flames lapping at the cabinets and ceiling. Frantically you dial 911, grab what you can, if you can, and scramble for the closest door to head outside.

As you do a quick look around to be sure everyone has made it out safely, shock begins to set in, and your mind races to remember all that you still have in the house that is irreplaceable. The situation can only be classified as one filled with trauma, and raw emotions. With a sigh of relief you hear SERVPRO assure you they are on their way.

While damage from the actual flames was confined mostly to the kitchen, you take notice of how the smoke has migrated throughout the entire home. Many unexpected issues from smoke and fire damage can be found. While walking through the home with SERVPRO it becomes evident the actual amount of damage smoke can cause. You’ll notice discolored walls, or ash and soot on the floor, often depending on the water path used with the fire hose, this will be accompanied by a black sooty soggy film. Be mindful of the smell as you make your way through the house as smells can be produced which can cause side effects that can be harmful not only to surfaces, but your health as well. Keep in mind that there will be changes in what you are seeing, some immediately, and some over the next few hours, or even days.

#HereToHelp 24/7/365

Reflection of Memorial Day 2018 Celebrated In Kershaw and Lancaster Counties

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

Freedom Was Not Free

Memorial Day - legal holiday in the United States, last Monday in May, commemorates the members of the United States armed forces who were killed in war.  Formerly known as Decoration Day. (Webster's College Dictionary 2010)

Will here it is Tuesday morning, the day after Memorial Day.  In observance of Memorial Day SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties employees were able to be with their families, and friends, thus creating a three day weekend.  As with the rest of our team here at SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties I too spent my day with family. 

We traveled to Georgia where our family has a long history of military involvement.  The family being strong in faith, family, and country, shared prayers, hugs, and tears. 

As one travels throughout the south, out of nowhere a memorial in the shape of a headstone stands out in the open.  These would be landmarks where battles were fought, and lives lost.  There are movies recounting various battles where lives were lost, and heroes who humbly stood out, many under horrific circumstances.

My father, and brother served, and my son is serving.  Each of us knows someone who has, or is serving, and each of us knows someone, or of someone who never made it home.

At SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties we ask that as you reflect on the Memorial Day of 2018 you continue to remember that our freedom was not free.  That you lift in your hearts those that kept us free, and those that are still battling to keep us free.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #smokedamage #water #waterdamage #storm #stormdamage #flood #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

Multi-Tasking and Cooking Causes House Fire In Lancaster South Carolina

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

It was only a pan of peas that caused a devastating house fire

Multi-Tasking and Cooking

No matter your walk in life, or the label society has placed on your age group generation. Every one of us at some point in time has opted to multi task cooking.  While this thought process can seem an innocent action in the grand scheme of life’s crazy schedules, it can also be deemed one of the most devastating, and costly.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties has been called several times for kitchen fires that could have been avoided had the source been attended. It is so easy to set a pot on the stove only to leave the kitchen and get side tracked with yet another distraction. In the blink of an eye your home can be enveloped by fire. You could be displaced from your home, belongs lost, treasured pictures, memories in the form of heirlooms, and daily needed articles damaged, or permanently destroyed. And yes if we are going to be real here, the ultimate loss would be loss of life.

Here at SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties cares, and to help you avoid a kitchen fire, I have listed below key elements that are fire-related hazards in a kitchen. Happy and safe cooking from all of us at SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties.

Fire-related hazards in a kitchen include:

  •  Flames, sparks and hot gases from food

   preparation can ignite residues in exhaust ducts

  • Food preparation equipment

   left without supervision during operation

  •  Failure to switch-off equipment, especially

   at the end of activity

  • Overheated oils that can lead to spontaneous

   combustion

  • Food preparation equipment based on solid fuels
  • Gas blowtorches used for browning some foods
  • Poorly operating thermostats or lack

   of thermostat or fault-detecting equipment

  • Faulty or overheating electrical equipment
  •  Metal exhaust flues that conduct heat

   and ignite nearby material or debris

  • Ovens without igniters/pilot lights

   (lit with burning pieces of paper).

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #smokedamage #water #waterdamage #storm #stormdamage #flood #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

2018 Kershaw County School District's Teacher of the Year Awards Gala

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

Congratulations to Matia Goodwin Teacher of the Year!

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is proud to have sponsored the 2018 Kershaw County School District's Teacher of the Year Awards Gala honoring Teachers of the Year, Principal of the Year and Outstanding First Year Teachers.  Contributions allowed the Kershaw County School District to provide a special recognition event for these outstanding educators.  SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is so excited to have helped to make this year's celebration one of the best yet.  Many of the honorees expressed their gratitude of the event, and recognized that without contributions the event would not be possible.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties would like to extend our gratitude, and appreciation of each and every teacher, and principal who help to educate our communities’ children.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties Reminds You to Call and Schedule Your Spring Cleaning For Your Carpets

3/23/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counites Can Help With Cleaning Up After Cute

On a normal day we trek in and out of the house. We follow the carpet path that leads to the couch, bathroom, bedroom, and of course, the front or back door.  I would say the majority of us has someone cute whether it be a young one, or a pet that is making headway with their own trails, and silly spots found in odd locations throughout the home, or business. 

At SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties we specialize in carpet cleaning, and spot removal.  No job to large, or to small, each treated with the same professional cleaning you deserve. At SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties we have certified technicians to take care of your carpets.

We are here to help you clean up after cute has run through.

Call SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties to get your quote for cleaning carpets.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties 24/7/365 to assist you.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #smokedamage #water #waterdamage #storm #stormdamage #flood #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #SERVPRO #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

Restoration At Stevens Park Underway in Kershaw South Carolina

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

Mulch is delivered to Steven's Park in Kershaw South Carolina

Today marks the actual day that Stevens Park can officially say that the restoration has begun. Two semi-trucks loaded with mulch arrived early this morning. While the sun was shining, there was a definite chill to the air as the trucks were unloaded. Chilly or not, my heart was warmed just knowing that by April 28th the restoration would be complete. 

 Let the celebration begin! The Grand Celebration on Saturday April 28th for the completed Steven's Park in Kershaw South Carolina will be a wonderful, and fun filled day for the community.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties will be participating in the activities scheduled for the day.  MARK YOUR CALANDERS! You don't want to miss out on the Live Music, Games, and Food.  More importantly, the community coming together in celebration of the new and improved Steven's Park.

SERVPRO of Kershaw and Lancaster Counties is your resource #24/7/365 #fire #smoke #smokedamage #water #waterdamage #storm #stormdamage #flood #flooddamage #frozenpipes #trauma #kershawcounty #lancastercounty #teamSERVPRO #community 803-475-7500

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