Safety Tips for Smoke Alarms

11/11/2024 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day.

Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can get outside quickly.  Here are some helpful tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) about smoke alarms:

SAFETY TIPS

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom. They should also be outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement.
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
• It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound.
• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Current alarms on the market employ different types of technology including multi-sensing, which could include smoke and carbon monoxide combined.
• A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business needs fire restoration services, SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has a team of highly trained technicians on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day. Call us today at 630-384-1040.

Halloween Safety Tips

10/28/2024 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day.

Halloween is a fun and spooky time of year and SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle wants you to have a safe and fire-free Halloween.  Here are some safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for staying safe this year.

Halloween Fire Safety Tips:

• When choosing a costume, stay away from long trailing fabric. If your child is wearing a mask, make sure the eye holes are large enough so he or she can see out.
• Provide children with flashlights to carry for lighting or glow sticks as part of their costume.
• Dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper catch fire easily. Keep all decorations away from open flames and other heat sources like light bulbs and heaters.
• Use a battery-operated candle or glow-stick in jack-o-lanterns. If you use a real candle, use extreme caution.
• Remember to keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes.
• Make sure all smoke alarms in the home are working.
• Tell children to stay away from open flames including jack-o-lanterns with candles in them. Be sure they know how to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire.

If your home or business has fire damage, SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has teams available 24 hours a day to help.  Call us today at 630-384-1040.

Fire Damage - Call SERVPRO

2/22/2024 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day.

Even small fires will cause smoke and soot damage to other areas of the house. The professionals at SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle are trained and certified to clean and restore fire damage quickly and efficiently. Here are some tips from our website on things you can do while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open
• Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves
• Change HVAC filter
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without consulting an authorized repair service
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat, or water
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business has fire, smoke, and soot damage, SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle is available to help.Call us today at 630-384-1040.

Safety Tips for Patio Heaters

7/26/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day.

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle responds to commercial fire damage emergencies throughout the year. More businesses are using propane heaters to keep customers and employees warm on chilly days and nights. Here is some information from the National Fire Protection Association for using outdoor propane heaters safely:

Propane Patio Heaters

For patio heaters that use integral LP-Gas containers with a capacity greater than 1.08 lb. (0.49 kg), NFPA 1 requires that the heaters be listed by an organization acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ).

Propane heaters need to be used in accordance with their listing and manufacturer instructions. Prior to using a propane heater, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for information such as the following:

• Necessary clearances from the heating element
• Proper ventilation required
• Proper inspection, cleaning, and maintenance procedures
• Lighting and shutdown procedures
• Where the heater can and cannot be used (for example, heaters cannot be used in enclosed locations)
• Procedures for properly storing heaters

The restrictions for using propane heaters are also based on the occupancy in which they are used. For example, in assembly occupancies, such as restaurants with 50 or more occupants, heaters cannot be located within 5 ft (1.5 m) of the exits. Regardless of where they are used, if a heater uses propane hoses, they must be as short as possible, visible, and protected from damage.

Call Us Today!

When your Wheaton home or commercial business needs fire damage restoration services, SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 630-384-1040.

Highly Trained Fire Restoration Technicians

9/8/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day.

After the fire has been extinguished, we are often the next team to arrive on the scene. SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has a team of highly trained fire restoration technicians ready to help.

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

Using the right tools and cleaning methods are key to quickly and efficiently restoring fire damage. Our professionals are trained to know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns.

• Wet Smoke – Plastics and Synthetics; Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary.
• Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood; Fast burning, high temperatures, dry, powdery, non-smeary residues.
• Protein – Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
• Fuel Oil Soot – Furnace Puff Backs.
• Other Types – Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue

We examine all items prior to cleaning to determine the appropriate cleaning method, and we work quickly and methodically from the source of the fire out to the other parts of the structure.

Call Us!

When your home or business needs fire cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle can help. Our fire restoration technicians are on-call 24-hours a day to mitigate and remediate fire damage. Call us today at 630-384-1040. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Generator Safety Tips

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

Follow these safety tips to stay safe during a power outage.

Springtime in the Midwest can bring rain, wind, and storms.  Downed utility lines, power company blackouts, heavy winds, or thunderstorms can all lead to power outages.  Portable generators offer a temporary solution. Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) about generator safety:

• Generators should be used in well ventilated locations outside at least 5 feet away from all doors, windows, and vent openings. Measure the 5-foot distance from the generator exhaust system to the building.
• Never use a generator in an attached garage, even with the door open.
• Place generators so that exhaust fumes can’t enter the home through windows, doors, or other openings in the building. The exhaust must be directed away from the building.
• Make sure to install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in your home. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for correct placement and mounting height.
• Turn off generators and let them cool down before refueling. Never refuel a generator while it is hot.
• Store fuel for the generator in a container that is intended for the purpose and is correctly labeled as such. Store the containers outside of living areas.

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has a team of highly trained technicians available 24-hours a day to handle any fire damage emergency.  Call us at 630-384-1040.

Tips to Stay Safe around the Pool

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day.

Springtime in the Midwest brings thoughts of warmer weather and outdoor activities.  As we start to dream of floating in the pool or sitting in the hot tub, we also need the be aware of electrical hazards while enjoying the water.  Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association on how to stay safe around swimming pools, hot tubs and spas.

• If you are putting in a new pool, hot tub, or spa, be sure the wiring is performed by an electrician experienced in the special safety requirements for these types of installations.
• Outdoor receptacles must have covers that keep them dry even when appliances are plugged into them.
• Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are special devices designed to protect against electric shock and electrocution. They are required for most pool, spa, or hot tub equipment. They may be in the form of an outlet or a circuit breaker.
• Electrical appliances, equipment, and cords should be kept at least 6 feet away from the water. When possible, use battery operated appliances and equipment, such as televisions, radios, and stereos.
• Avoid handling electrical devices when you are wet.
• Do not swim during a thunderstorm.
• Have a qualified electrician show you how to turn off all power in case of an emergency.

If you experience fire damage, SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has a team of highly trained technicians that can respond 24-hours a day, call us at 630-384-1040.

Fireplace Safety Tips

2/28/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day.

There is nothing like warming up by a fire in the fireplace, but a dirty chimney can cause a house fire.  Creosote is a black or brown residue that can build up over time and could cause a fire.  It is important to make sure that your chimney is clean and safe for a fire. 

Follow these tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency for preventing creosote buildup that can cause chimney fires:

Limited air supply and unseasoned wood encourage the buildup of creosote. To avoid that buildup, do not restrict the air supply by:

• Closing the glass doors
• Not opening the damper wide enough
• The longer the smoke is in the flue, the more likely it is that creosote will form
• Do not burn unseasoned wood

Fireplace Safety

• Keep a glass or metal screen in front of the fireplace to prevent embers or sparks from jumping out
• Do not burn paper in your fireplace
• Put ashes in a metal container with a lid, outside, at least three feet from your home
• Put the fire out before you go to sleep or leave your home

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has a team of highly trained technicians ready to respond to a fire damage emergency 24-hours a day.  Call us at 630-384-1040.

Safety Tips for your Microwave

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle provides 24-hour service for any fire damage emergency.

The microwave oven is a great kitchen appliance that provides a quick and easy way to reheat a meal or warm up a cup of coffee.  It is always important to follow a few tips to prevent burns or a possible fire.

Here are some microwave safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association: 

• Purchase a microwave oven that is listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Make sure to complete and return the product registration card. This way, the manufacturer can reach you if there is a recall on the product.
• Plug the microwave oven directly into the wall outlet — never use an extension cord
• Make sure the microwave oven is at a safe height, within easy reach of all users
• Open food slowly, away from the face. Hot steam or the food itself can cause burns.
• Food heats unevenly in microwave ovens. Stir and test before eating or giving to children.
• Never heat a baby bottle in the microwave. Since a microwave oven heats unevenly, it can create hot pockets, leading to burns.

If you experience fire or smoke damage, SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has a team of highly trained technicians available 24-hours a day to assist you.  Please call us at 630-384-1040.

Safety Tips for Cooking with Oil

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day.

Deep fry day is a favorite day in our household.  This is a day that we deep fry all types of food.  We start in the morning with homemade doughnuts and end with deep-fried twinkies.  Safety is always on our mind as we work with the hot oil in the Kitchen.  Here are some cooking safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

Safety considerations for cooking with oil

• Always stay in the kitchen when frying on the stovetop.
• Keep an eye on what you fry. If you see wisps of smoke or the oil smells, immediately turn off the burner and/or carefully remove the pan from the burner. Smoke is a danger sign that the oil is too hot.
• Heat the oil slowly to the temperature you need for frying or sautéing.
• Add food gently to the pot or pan so the oil does not splatter.
• Always cook with a lid beside your pan. If you have a fire, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Do not remove the cover because the fire could start again. Let the pan cool for a long time. Never throw water on the fire.
• If the fire does not go out or you don’t feel comfortable sliding a lid over the pan, get everyone out of your home. Call the fire department from outside.

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has a team of fire restoration specialists on call 24-hours a day to help you.  Call us today at 630-384-1040. 

Stay Safe While Traveling - Hotel & Motel Safety Tips

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

Keep these safety tips in mind when traveling.

Vacations and business travel make hotels and motels our home away from home. It is just as important to be prepared and know what you would do in a hotel/motel emergency as it is in your own home.  Here are a few tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to stay safe while traveling:

• Choose a hotel/motel that is protected by both smoke alarms and a fire sprinkler system.
• When you check in, ask the front desk what the fire alarm sounds like.
• When you enter your room, review the escape plan posted in your room.
• Take the time to find the exits and count the number of doors between your room and the exit. Make sure the exits are unlocked. If they are locked, report it to management right away.
• Keep your room key by your bed and take it with you if there is a fire.
• If the alarm sounds, leave right away, closing all doors behind you. Use the stairs — never use elevators during a fire.
• If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit.

If you have any questions about fire damage restoration services, please call SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle at 630-384-1040.

Winter Holiday Safety Tips

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle provides 24-hour service for any fire damage emergency.

The winter holiday season is upon us, and it is a time for traditions and decorating our homes. As we prepare our homes for holiday gatherings, we should also keep safety in mind. Here are a few tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to ensure a fire-safe holiday season:

Holiday decorating

• Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
• Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.
• Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged.
• Keep decorations away from windows and doors.

If you experience fire or smoke damage, SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has a team of highly trained technicians available 24-hours a day to assist you. Please call us at 630-384-1040.

Clothes Dryer Safety Tips

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle can help if you experience fire damage.

Taking out the garbage, sweeping the floor, and doing laundry are just a few daily chores that you may perform during a normal day. It is important to protect your home from a fire disaster by following a few simple tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to avoid a clothes dryer fire:

• Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional
• Do not use the dryer without a lint filter
• Make sure you clean the lint filter before or after each load of laundry
• Rigid or flexible metal venting material should be used to sustain proper air flow and drying time
• Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating. Once a year, clean lint out of the vent pipe or have a dryer lint removal service do it for you.
• Keep dryers in good working order. Gas dryers should be inspected by a qualified professional to make sure that the gas line and connection are intact and free of leaks.
• Make sure the right plug and outlet are used and that the machine is connected properly
• Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and don’t overload your dryer
• Turn the dryer off if you leave home or when you go to bed

If you experience fire or smoke damage, SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has a team of highly trained technicians available 24-hours a day to assist you. Please call us at 630-384-1040.

Keep Safe & Warm this Winter

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle provides 24-hour service for any fire damage emergency.

Colder weather is arriving in the Chicagoland area and it brings chilly temperatures into our home. A great way to help fend off the cold is to use a portable space heater. If you are planning to use a space heater this winter season, it is important that you know how to properly operate it. Please follow these tips and recommendations from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

Heater Checklist:

• Purchase a heater with the seal of a qualified testing laboratory.
• Keep the heater at least 3 feet away from children, pets, and people, or anything that can burn.
• Choose a heater with a thermostat and overheat protection.
• Place the heater on a solid, flat surface.
• Plug the heater directly into the wall outlet. Never use an extension cord.
• Turn off the space heater when you leave the room or go to bed.

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle responds to fire damage emergencies during the winter months and we know the damage even a small fire can cause to a home. Our fire restoration technicians have the advanced training, equipment, and experience to restore damage caused by a small or large fire. Call us at 630-384-1040.

Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration in Wheaton

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day.

Damage caused by a fire is devastating for your family and your home. It’s a stressful and confusing time, so you’ll need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. Our professionals will always treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with great care.

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has the water and fire damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. Once the fire department leaves, your Wheaton home may suffer from water damage caused by firefighting efforts. We have the specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips – Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Locally Owned and Operated
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Highly Trained Fire Restoration Technicians

Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today 630-384-1040 

Fire Safety Tips

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

It is important to teach children about fire safety.

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has responded to many types of fire damage and we know that it is never too early to teach children about fire safety. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), some children play with fire out of curiosity, boredom, or peer pressure and do not realize the danger fire poses. Each year children cause fires that result in hundreds of injuries and millions of dollars in damage. Here are some safety tips from NFPA to keep your family safe:

• Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children, up high, preferably in a locked cabinet
• Closely supervise children, making sure that they are kept away from other fire sources, including lit candles, cigarettes, bonfires, and stoves
• It is natural for young children to be curious and ask questions about fire, play with fire trucks, or pretend to cook. Use these opportunities to teach them about fire safety
• Explain that fire moves very fast and can hurt as soon as it touches them. Tell them that this is why matches and lighters are tools for adults only
• Establish clear rules and consequences about unsupervised and unauthorized uses of fire

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has a team of highly trained technicians on call and ready to respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day. Call us today at (630) 384-1040. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Special Smoke Alarms for Hearing Impaired People

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

Special smoke alarms are available for hearing impaired people.

Working smoke alarms save lives.  However, people who are deaf or hard of hearing may not be able to depend on the traditional smoke alarm to alert them to a fire.  The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers these safety tips for hearing impaired people:

• Smoke alarms and alert devices are available for people who are deaf or hard of hearing
• Strobe lights that flash when the smoke alarm sounds. The lights warn people of a possible fire
• When people who are deaf are asleep, a pillow or bed shaker can wake them so they can escape. The shaker is activated by the sound of a smoke alarm
• When people who are hard of hearing are asleep, an alert device that uses a loud, mixed, low-pitched sound can wake them. They may find a pillow or bed shaker helpful. These devices are triggered by the sound of the smoke alarm
• Research the products and select the ones that best meet your needs

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle can respond to your fire damage emergency 24 hours a day.  Call us at (630) 384-1040. 

Electrical Safety Reminders

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle is always ready to help with any size fire damage.

Think about how often we use electricity during a normal day.  We may start our day by turning off an alarm clock and then heading to the kitchen to plug in the coffee maker.  That is just the beginning of all the things around the house that we use on a daily basis.  Electricity makes our lives easier however, we need to keep safety in mind.  Here are a few safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

• Have all electrical work done by a qualified electrician.
• When you are buying or remodeling a home, have it inspected by a qualified private inspector or in accordance with local requirements.
• Only use one heat-producing appliance (such as a coffee maker, toaster, space heater, etc.) plugged into a receptacle outlet at a time.
• Major appliances (refrigerators, dryers, washers, stoves, air conditioners, microwave ovens, etc.) should be plugged directly into a wall receptacle outlet. Extension cords and plug strips should not be used.
• Use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to reduce the risk of shock. GFCIs shut off an electrical circuit when it becomes a shock hazard. They should be installed inside the home in bathrooms, kitchens, garages and basements. All outdoor receptacles should be GFCI protected.

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has highly trained technicians that are available 24 hours a day.  Call us at 630-384-1040.  We’ll clean and restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

High-rise Fire Escape Planning

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle are fire damage restoration specialists.

Living in the Chicagoland area many people reside in a high-rise apartment or condominium building and need to be prepared in the event of a fire.  SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has been responding to fire damage emergencies for years and we know that having an emergency escape plan in the event of a fire emergency can save your life and the lives of your loved ones.  Here are some tips for escaping a fire from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): 

• GO to your outside meeting place and stay there. Call the fire department. If someone is trapped in the building, notify the fire department.
• If you can’t get out of your apartment because of fire, smoke or a disability, STUFF wet towels or sheets around the door and vents to keep smoke out.
• CALL the fire department and tell them where you are.
• OPEN a window slightly and wave a bright cloth to signal your location. Be prepared to close the window if it makes the smoke condition worse.
• Fire department evacuation of a high-rise building can take a long time.
• Communicate with the fire department to monitor evacuation status.

If your high-rise apartment or commercial business experiences a fire damage emergency, SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle can help.  Our technicians are on call 24 hours a day and have the advanced training and equipment to mitigate any fire damage.  Call us today at 630-384-1040.

Stay Warm and Safe this Winter

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle hope you stay warm and safe this winter.

During the winter months in the Chicagoland area the outside temperatures begin to drop, and we spend more time indoors.  With this being said, a warm cozy fireplace is often a place for families to gather to stay warm and cozy.  Here are a few heating safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to prevent heating fires from happening.

Stay warm and safe this winter!

• Keep anything that can burn at least three-feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove or portable space heater.
• Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• Never use your oven to heat your home.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

If you do experience any damage from a fire or smoke emergency, please call SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle at 630-384-1040.

Christmas Tree Safety Tips

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

Follow these Christmas tree safety tips to keep your family safe this holiday season.

The Holiday Season is here!  A big part of the season is choosing the perfect Christmas tree for your home.

As you deck the halls this holiday season, be fire smart.  A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow large very quickly.  Here are a few tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to keep you and your Christmas tree safe this holiday season.

Picking the tree:

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

Placing the tree:

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

Lighting the tree:

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

The team from SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle hope that you have a happy, healthy and safe holiday season.  If you do have any questions about fire, soot or smoke damage please call us at (630) 384-1040.

Be Prepared for a Fire - Make a Fire Escape Plan

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Keep your family safe in case of a fire - have a fire escape plan in place.

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle knows that having a plan is the best way to prepare your family in case of a fire emergency.  It does not take a great deal of work, but it can be the difference in being able to protect your family.

Your plan should be simple and easy to follow.  Here are some suggestions from Ready.gov to help make a plan for your family in case of a fire:

• Involve your children when making the plan so that they are ready in case of a fire.
• Teach children not to hide from firefighters.
• Find two ways to get out of each room.
• Practice the plan so your children know what to do in case of a fire.
• Practice feeling your way out of the house in the dark.

Taking the time to come up with a plan is an important part of protecting your family in the event of a fire.

Home fires can happen at any time, but you can make sure that your family is ready in case it happens.  If you need additional resources, call SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle at (630) 384-1040 and we can help!

Extension Cord Safety Tips

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Extension cords can be a fire hazard when used improperly.

An extension cord can come in handy from time to time to help you solve a temporary power issue, however they should not be used for a long-term solution.  Extension cord misuse can cause damage to your home or business.  According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) here are some tips to keep your extension cords safe:

• Do not overload extension cords or allow them to run through water or snow on the ground.
• Do not substitute extension cords for permanent wiring.
• Do not run through walls, doorways, ceilings or floors.  If cord is covered, heat cannot escape, which may result in a fire hazard.
• Do not use an extension cord for more than one appliance.
• Make sure the extension cord or temporary power strip you use is rated for the products to be plugged in.
• Never use a cord that feels hot or is damaged in any way.  Touching even a single exposed strand can give you an electric shock or burn.
• Never use three-prong plugs with outlets that only have two slots for the plug. Do not cut off the ground pin to force a fit.  This defeats the purpose of a three-prong plug and could lead to an electrical shock.

If you experience Fire Damage, please call SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle at (630) 384-1040.

Keeping your Pets Safe from Fire

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Follow these tips to keep your pets safe from fire in your home.

Pets are a big part of our lives; they are often considered part of our family.  We need to make sure that we keep our pets safe inside our homes.  According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) pets and wild animals are responsible for starting 750 home fires each year.  The following are a few sources that your pet may have exposure to:

• Cooking equipment
• Fireplaces
• Chimneys
• Space heaters
• Lamps
• Bulbs
• Wiring
• Candles

Here are a few safety tips from NFPA to keep your pets safe in your home:

• Pets may bump into, turn on, or knock over cooking equipment so keep them away from stoves and countertops.
• Keep pets away from candles, lamps, and space heaters.
• Use a heat-tempered glass screen on a fireplace and keep it in place.
• Keep pets away from chimney’s outside vents.
• Create a “pet-free zone” of at least three feet away from the fireplace.
• Use battery-operated, flameless candles.
• Keep pets away from electrical cords that they might want to chew.
• Make sure your pets are included in your emergency evacuation plan.

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle will respond to any fire damage emergency 24 hours a day.  Call us today at 630-384-1040. 

Tips for Outdoor Grilling

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Enjoy outdoor grilling with these safety tips.

As the warm days of summer begin to fade, there will be cooler fall days to still enjoy the taste of a meal cooked outside on the grill.  Here are some safety tips provided by the National Fire Protection Association to keep in mind when grilling:

General Grill Safety Tips:

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

If you have a Charcoal Grill:

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

Please stay safe with your outdoor grilling with the help of these safety tips.  If you have any questions about Fire or Smoke damage, please contact SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle at 630-384-1040.

Destroy Odors with Deodorization

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle can help remove unwanted odors caused by smoke damage.

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized.  Fire, smoke and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems.

As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard-to-reach places.  Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors.

With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle provides specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage.  SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle does not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; we seek out and remove the sources of the odor.

If you suffer a fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services, contact SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle at (630) 384-1040.

Tips for Candle Safety in your Home

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Use caution when using candles in your home.

Candles may be pretty to look at and provide a great fragrance in your home, but they can also be a cause of a house fire.  According to the National Fire Protection Association, 3 out of every 5 candle fires start when things that can burn are placed too close to the candle.  Here are some tips that you should follow for candle safety:

• Blow out candles before leaving a room or going to bed
• Keep candles one foot away from anything that can burn
• Use a sturdy candle holder, that will not tip over easily
• Put candle holders on a sturdy and unclutter surface
• Light candles carefully, keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame
• Do not let the candle burn all the way to the bottom; put it out before it gets too close to the container or holder
• You should not light a candle if oxygen is used in the home
• During a power outage, use a flashlight or battery-operated lighting instead of a candle

Remember candles are an open flame which means they can easily ignite.  As an alternative, consider using flameless candles.

If you have any additional questions about fire or smoke damage, please feel free to contact SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle at (630) 384-1040.

Hoarding can be a Fire Hazard

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Clutter caused by hoarding can be a fire hazard in your home.

Do you have a person in your life who may be a hoarder?  According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).  Hoarding is a condition where a person has persistent difficulty discarding personal possessions.  The large amount of possessions fill the home and prevent the normal use of the space.  Living space becomes cluttered making it unusable as the space was designed.  Hoarding can lead to fire hazards in the home.

Why Hoarding Increases Fire Risks:

• Cooking is unsafe if flammable items are close to the stove or oven.
• Heating units may be too close to things that can burn. They might also be placed on unstable surfaces. If a heater tips over into a pile, it can cause a fire.
• Open flames from smoking materials or candles in a home with excess clutter are very dangerous.
• Blocked pathways and exits may hinder escape from a fire.

How Hoarding Impacts First Responders:

• Hoarding puts first responders in harm’s way.
• Firefighters cannot move swiftly through a home filled with clutter.
• Responders can be trapped in a home when exits are blocked. They can be injured by objects falling from piles.
• The weight of the stored items, especially if water is added to put out a fire, can lead to building collapse.
• Fighting fires is very risky in a hoarding home. It is hard to enter the home to provide medical care. The clutter impedes the search and rescue of people and pets.

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle has experience with cleaning hoarding homes.  If a family member is struggling and you need assistance, please call our office at (630) 384-1040.  We will be happy to assist you in making your home a safe place.

Fire Safety - Be Prepared with Smoke Alarms.

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

A Smoke Alarm is an important safety device in your home.

Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).  If there is a fire in your home, smoke spreads fast and you need smoke alarms to give you time to get out.  We here at SERVPRO want to make sure you stay safe.

Here is what you need to know:

• A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. 
• Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound. 
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside.
• Replace all smoke alarms in your home every 10 years.

Have Questions About Fire or Smoke Damage? Call SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle at (630) 384-1040

Source: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Staying-safe/Safety-equipment/Smoke-alarms

Heating Safety Tips for the Winter.

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Keep Warm & Safe this Winter.

The winter weather is fast approaching the Chicagoland area and according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), half of home heating equipment fires are reported during the months of December, January, and February.  Please follow these tips from NFPA to stay warm and safe this winter:

• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.
• Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• Never use your oven to heat your home.
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

Source:  National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

Thanksgiving Fire Safety Tips

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Stay Safe this Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving is right around the corner and according to NFPA it is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment.

Please take a look at the following tips to stay safe this Thanksgiving:

Safety Tips:

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle are available 24/7 if an emergency should occur.  We are here to help.

Source: https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/ThanksgivingSafety.ashx

Fire Odor Elimination in Wheaton: Deodorization

6/25/2019 (Permalink)

How do I get rid of smoke smell after a fire?

How do we address and eliminate odors? Here are some frequent questions and comments that we have be asked to solve at SERVPRO of Wheaton/Glen Ellyn/Lisle:

• A skunk sprayed my dog. He/she ran into our home and now my house smells. What can I do?
• There is a bad smell after my toilet overflowed in my bathroom. I can’t make it go away. Can you help?
• How do I remove the smell after sewage came up in my basement?
• I found a dead animal in our office drop ceiling, and I need to remove smell.
• How do you make the smell disappear after a biohazard cleanup?
• How do I get rid of smoke smell after a fire?

Each odor situation is unique, and we first must inspect to determine the best method for removal. Three methods that we use are use of ozone, hydroxl generators, and deodorants.

Call SERVPRO of Wheaton/Glen Ellyn/ Lisle to set up an inspection with a trained professional to determine the best way to eliminate odor from after a fire to a curious pet that gets sprayed by a skunk.

After a Fire, Cleaning and Restoring

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

A fire on the inside of this building affected the exterior as well. SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle was called to help repair and recover.

Following a fire on the interior, a local business experienced fire and smoke damage throughout the facility, both on the interior and exterior.  SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle was called to help with the initial cleaning, disinfecting, and odor control of the facility.  In addition, because of the extent of the fire damage, various parts of the building required replacement of structural elements, such as siding, insulation, as well as interior furnishings.

Recovering and Repairing From a Fire

Our team worked with the facility staff to prioritize the repairs and address the elements that were most important to the facility to reopen.  Starting on the interior and working out, recovery was quick, with operations resuming according to the timeline of the business.  In the end, SERVPRO of Wheaton / Glen Ellyn / Lisle was able to help the business recover from a destructive fire and recover quickly.

After a Fire, SERVPRO of Wheaton Glen Ellyn Has a Plan

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

Fire can completely destroy homes and buildings. If there is anything restorable, SERVPRO of Wheaton/ Glen Ellyn/ Lisle will conduct the tests.

There are many things to consider following a fire. After personal safety, the structure, belongings and the recovery are all considered.  How do you proceed, what is saved, and what needs to be replaced?  When the smell of smoke and soot fills rooms it seems like things may never be the same.  They can and will be with the restoration procedures that SERVPRO has developed for fire damage recovery. 

Testing after a Fire

Whether you experience a small fire with smoke damage or a severe fire that all but destroys a structure, SERVPRO approaches each fire damage with a plan of action.  There are many steps but it all begins with a thorough evaluation and determination of the situation.  All furniture and items inside will be tested to determine what can be restored and what will have to be replaced.  This pretesting process helps determine the path to restoration.  Just one of the ways that SERVPRO of Wheaton/Glen Ellyn/Lisle helps you after a fire.   

After a Fire: Cleaning up after smoke and fire damage in Wheaton/Glen Ellyn/Lisle Area

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

Damaged by a fire, this smoke and soot covered wall was cleaned by the SERVPRO of Wheaton/Glen Ellyn/Lisle team.

When a fire erupted in a residential apartment building in the Wheaton area of Illinois, the local fire department responded immediately, extinguishing the fire. The fire and smoke damage displaced many families, and created a massive clean-up effort for SERVPRO of Wheaton/Glen Ellyn/Lisle.

Fire, Smoke and Soot Damage

The fire burned inside 2 units of a large apartment building, creating heavy structural damage. All told, residents from a total of 12 units were impacted and suddenly without a home. The fire and smoke damage was present throughout nearly all of the units adjacent to where the fire took place. There was also water inside several apartments from the fire department’s response, coupled with smoke smell and soot covering the walkways and stairwells, making the entire building uninhabitable for residents. After this fire took place, SERVPRO was called to assist in the immediate cleanup and mitigation from the fire damaged structure. 

Cleaning Smoke and Soot Damage

The fire created structural damage in two units, but heavy smoke damage and soot covered walls, furniture and personal belongings in many of the adjoining units. Outside of the living areas, the signs of fire were found throughout the building.  Smoke and soot damage covered brick walls up and down staircases.  As part of the cleanup, SERVPRO was called in to clean the charred walls and restore the appearance of the building.  Using a combination of commercial cleaning materials and steam cleaning, SERVPRO crews performed a thorough cleaning of all the damaged segments of the brick walls, removing all traces of the smoke and soot damage, making the brick and the fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Wheaton Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/16/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Wheaton Home.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Wheaton/Glen Ellyn/Lisle will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (630) 384-1040