North Charleston Fire Victims Receive Support from UNITS Moving and Portable Storage

Published: July 12, 2024

North Charleston Fire Victims Receive Support from UNITS

At UNITS Moving & Portable Storage, we believe in the power of community and the importance of stepping up when our neighbors need us the most. Recently, our UNITS of Charleston team had the opportunity to support some local fire victims in a significant way.

One fateful Saturday, while out running errands, these homeowners received a distressing call from their smart home security system. A fire had erupted in their home. Despite their neighbors’ quick response in dialing 911, the fire had already caused catastrophic damage by the time emergency services arrived. Thankfully, no one was home during the fire, but the house and everything inside were completely destroyed.

The incident, covered by WCBD News 2, also highlighted the bravery of our local firefighters. One of the firefighters responding to the blaze sustained injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital. We are relieved to report that he is expected to make a full recovery.

When news of this tragedy reached us, we felt compelled to act. The homeowners are family members of one of our dedicated employees, making this disaster hit even closer to home. Without hesitation, our North Charleston franchise team mobilized to provide immediate support.

How UNITS Moving and Portable Storage Was Able to Assist:

UNITS of Charleston is donating two portable storage containers to help the displaced homeowners secure and assist in storing the belongings they were able to salvage. Our team is also assisting with the container moving process to the homeowners temporary residence, to ensure they can begin their journey to recovery as smoothly as possible. Additionally, we are making a monetary donation to the injured firefighter to express our gratitude for his service and to aid in his recovery.

The cause of the fire, as identified by the smart home cameras, was a faulty television. This unfortunate event serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of fire safety. We urge all homeowners to develop and maintain a fire plan, ensure it is accessible, and regularly review their homeowner’s insurance policies to confirm they provide adequate coverage for total losses. Listed below are some tips for home fire prevention and preparation…

Prevention Tips

1. Install Smoke Alarms:
   • Place smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas.
   • Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
2. Maintain Electrical Systems:
   • Have a licensed electrician inspect your home’s wiring.
   • Avoid overloading electrical outlets and replace damaged or frayed cords immediately.
3. Safe Cooking Practices:
   • Never leave cooking unattended, especially when using the stove or oven.
   • Keep flammable items like dish towels, paper towels, and pot holders away from the stovetop.
4. Use Heating Equipment Safely:
   • Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn.
   • Never leave space heaters on when you leave the room or go to bed.
5. Proper Storage of Flammable Materials:
   • Store gasoline, cleaning agents, and other flammable materials in approved containers and away from heat sources.
   • Keep them in well-ventilated areas, preferably outside the living areas.
6. Be Careful with Candles:
   • Use sturdy candle holders that won’t tip over easily.
   • Extinguish candles when you leave the room or go to sleep.
7. Fireplace Safety:
   • Use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks from escaping.
   • Have the chimney inspected and cleaned annually by a professional.

Preparation Tips

1. Create a Fire Escape Plan:
   • Develop and practice a fire escape plan with your family.
   • Ensure everyone knows at least two ways to escape from each room and designate a meeting spot outside.
2. Install Fire Extinguishers:
   • Place fire extinguishers in key areas such as the kitchen, garage, and near any fireplaces.
   • Learn how to use them and ensure they are easily accessible.
3. Check Fire Extinguishers:
   • Regularly check that fire extinguishers are charged and not expired.
4. Clear Clutter:
   • Keep hallways, stairs, and exits clear of clutter to ensure quick evacuation routes.
5. Secure Important Documents:
   • Store important documents and valuables in a fireproof safe.
6. Practice Home Fire Drills:
   • Conduct home fire drills at least twice a year.
   • Practice using different escape routes and times of day.
7. Stay Informed:
   • Learn about your local fire department’s emergency response and community resources.

By following these prevention and preparation tips, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of residential home fires and ensure they are prepared in the event of an emergency.

At UNITS Moving & Portable Storage, we understand the challenges that arise in the aftermath of such disasters. We are committed to supporting our community and are thankful for the opportunity to lend a helping hand during this difficult time.

Together, we can overcome these hardships and emerge stronger. Stay safe, be prepared, and know that UNITS Moving & Portable Storage is always here to support you.

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