Staying Warm & Safe in the Cold Months

1/8/2024 (Permalink)

Weather reports are calling for colder temperatures in the Chicagoland area within the upcoming weeks, which will also affect the temperatures inside our homes. One way to help compensate for the lower temperatures and bitter drafts is by using a portable space heater. If you plan to use a space heater in your home this winter, it is important that you know how to properly operate it. Please follow these recommendations posted by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

Space Heater Checklist:

• Purchase a heater that displays the seal of a qualified testing laboratory. 
• Choose a heater that has a thermostat and overheat protection.
• Keep the heater at least 3 feet away from children, pets, people, furniture, or anything that can burn.
• Place the heater on a stable, flat surface.
• Plug the heater directly into the wall outlet instead of using an extension cord.
• Make sure the space heater is turned off before you leave the room or go to bed.

Our fire restoration technicians here at SERVPRO of Evanston respond to winter fire emergencies and have the advanced training, equipment, and experience to restore damage caused by fires, small or large. Call us at 847-763-7010. 

Thanksgiving Safety

11/13/2023 (Permalink)

Avoid this scenario by choosing an alternative turkey cooking method.

We are a little over a week away from Thanksgiving, which means football, family, and most importantly, food. However, with Thanksgiving comes the unfortunate rise in house fires. According to the NFPA, Thanksgiving Day is the peak day for home cooking fires, more than three times the daily average. In 2021, an estimated 1,160 home cooking fires were reported, a 297% increase over the daily average. The NFPA strongly advises against using a turkey fryer, as the large amount of oil at such high temperatures can cause very serious burns. They suggest getting a turkey from a restaurant or local grocery store if you want a fried turkey. While cooking, it is important that you do not leave the food unattended, as that has been the leading cause of the fires in years past. 

Lightning Strikes

8/29/2022 (Permalink)

A lightning strike hit this house and set it ablaze.

House fires caused by lightning strikes are probably more common than you would think. Insurance companies estimate home and commercial losses caused by lightning that are worth billions of dollars every year. 

If you are in your home when the lightning strikes, you will hear a loud explosive sound. In older homes, it is likely that your house and everything in it will shake. In newer homes, most of them have been built to withstand and absorb a lightning strike, reducing the shake. However, the exterior damage and shaking is usually minor compared to the aftermath, which is the main concern.

The tough part about lightning striking your home is that if a fire is started, you may not notice until it is too late. The fire could start in an attic or in the walls for instance. You should contact your local fire department right away, even if you don't see any smoke or fire. If the fire department clears your home, the next thing you should do is follow up with an electrician to inspect your home and make sure no fire hazards were created by the strike. Unfortunately, there is no way to predict if or when a lightning strike will hit your house, but being prepared and knowing what to do in the aftermath will go a long way

Oven Catches Fire in Evanston

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

The quick reaction by the homeowner saved her home from further damage.

A woman in Evanston was getting ready to make her son some lunch, she got the food out, preheated the oven, and turned on her favorite tv show. A normal afternoon on all accounts, until she started to smell something burning. Instantly, she realized she had left a bag of potato chips in the oven which caught on fire. Luckily, she had a fire extinguisher near by and was able to put out the blaze before it got out of hand. However, there was still some smoke and soot damage to the kitchen and surrounding areas. She called SERVPRO to come out and begin the process of cleaning the damage and getting her kitchen back to normal. Along with the smoke and soot, there was residue from the fire extinguisher that would need to be cleaned as well. This would be no problem for SERVPRO as there is nothing we cant handle. In a matter of just a few days, SERVPRO was able to get her taken care of and she had her kitchen back in no time. This served as a quick lesson on why you should not leave your potato chips in the oven!

Smoke and Soot Cleaning

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Wall and All is the second step in the process and is responsible for removing the smoke damage.

Dealing with smoke and soot damage after a fire can be extremely frustrating. It seems to find its way into every nook and cranny. The aftermath of a fire can be almost as overwhelming as the event itself. Here at SERVPRO, we can take care of all of your fire cleaning needs. When it comes to fire cleaning, we utilize a process that allows for the most efficient work and turn around time. 

SERVPRO begins by packing out all affected content, this will be taken off sight to be cleaned. Depending on the amount of content, this can take 1 day or it can take 1 week. Once content is removed, SERVPRO will begin cleaning the ceilings and the walls. SERVPRO will utilize a 3-step process highlighted below:

Step 1- The first step is to dry clean the ceilings and walls. This will be done using chemical sponges. This removes any excess soot and will prevent smearing in the next steps.

Step 2 - The next step is to use Wall and All Surface Cleaner. Wall and All is used to clean smoke damage on any painted or washable surface.

Step 3 - The last step is to use Wall Rinse. Wall Rinse is a neutralizing and deodorizing agent used to rinse the walls following Wall and All. Wall Rinse will leave the walls neutral and film free. 

Smoke Damage In Your Home

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

This apartment suffered significant smoke damage as a result of a fire in the unit below.

When a fire occurs in your home, there is more too it than just the flame you see. Even in a minor fire that is put out rather quickly, you still have to worry about the damage that smoke and soot can cause. Often times smoke and soot can creep into cavities in your home causing damage that may not be easily seen.

There are two different types of smoke, wet and dry. Below is some information about both kinds and where they may occur:

Wet Smoke -This is most commonly found on materials such as plastic and rubber. Wet smoke is more likely to occur at low heat, causing smoldering and melting. Wet smoke is often more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke -Dry smoke is associated mostly with paper and wood. These materials burn faster and at higher temperatures. Due to their intense heat, they give off more smoke.

It is important to have a trained SERVPRO technician out to test which type of smoke has occurred, as this will determine how they approach the restoration process.

Appliance Fires

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

This dishwasher caught fire and caused significant damage to the kitchen

When it comes to house fires, common appliances may not cross your mind as a cause. The reality is, appliances have led to over $7 Billion in property losses, according to the NFPA. There are some appliances that are more likely to cause a fire than others, and they are going to be highlighted below.

Refrigerator - An electrical short or an overheated compressor can lead to a fire. The plastic contained in the refrigerator can be fuel to the fire.

Dishwasher - Dishwashers contain elements that heat up to dry your dishes. These elements get wet, heat up and then cool down. If you have old or damaged elements, they can lead to a fire.

Dryer - Perhaps one of the more common appliance fires, one of the leading causes is the lint trap. Allowing lint to accumulate in the trap can be dangerous and it is recommended that you clean it out regularly. 

Microwave - Microwaves, although very useful and convenient, can be dangerous in their own right. Overcooked foods and metal pieces in food packaging are two of the leading causes. 

House Fire Preparedness

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

It is important to know how to react when a house fire erupts.

A fire is one of the scariest things a family can face inside of their home. It is very important that if this situation ever arises in your home, you and your family members are prepared to act accordingly. This blog is going to highlight how your household can stay prepared.

1. Install the proper number of smoke alarms in your home. Be sure to test them a couple times a month to ensure they're working properly.  

2. Make sure all members of the household know at least two ways to escape from the home and set up a planned meeting spot away from the home.

3. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like so that they can recognize it and are aware of what is going on when the situation occurs. 

4. This one sounds simple, but it is still very important. Make sure every member of the house knows how to dial 9-1-1. This will go a long way in ensuring everyone's safety. 

Firepit Safety This Summer

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

Here is an example of what a safe fire pit looks like.

With summer on its way you might find yourself spending more time around the fire pits. Here are some safe practices that could help save you and your home from a fire this summer. 

1. Never build your fire under an awning or any sort of overhang. This also includes trees, bushes, or umbrellas.

2. Always be ready to extinguish the flames. Whether that be when the party is winding down and it's time for bed, or in case of emergency. Make sure you have an extinguisher handy so your party doesn't crash and burn. 

3. Never leave your fire unattended. Something as simple as a wind gust can put your entire home in jeopardy. Checking the wind conditions is another thing you should keep in mind when building your fire. If the wind is blowing towards your home or other flammable objects, you might want to save the fire for another day.

Why to Board Up After a Fire

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

If your property in the Chicagoland area has experienced a fire, there are several reasons why you might want to board up structural damage or windows. In addition to keeping the external elements out of a building with fire damage, boarding up can also prevent additional losses due to looting and make the fire cleanup process easier.   

Here are four reasons to board-up after a fire.

• In a commercial setting, there may still be viable stock on the premises. If products that appear viable remain in the building, you should consider boarding up. These items may require assessment and cleaning and may not be fit for sale, but having them properly processed rather than stolen can be helpful for insurance purposes.
• You want to protect electronics and other valuables. Depending on the extent of the fire damage, you may be able to restore some electronics or other valuable property to working condition.
• You need to keep out the elements. If the structure of your property has sustained extensive damage, you should try to keep the elements out to prevent additional damage. Exposure to additional water, wind, or sunlight can compound the damage caused by smoke residue and soot.
• You want to limit soot damage. It is generally a good idea to reduce foot traffic on the scene of a recent fire. When soot gets embedded into carpeting or upholstery, it can be much more difficult to restore these materials to a pre-fire condition.

Talk to our experts at SERVPRO of Evanston, about whether boarding up is a good strategy for preventing loss and limiting damage after a fire. Your major concern is likely to be how to recover from fire damage as quickly and completely as possible. Preventing looting and exposure to the elements can make fire cleanup more successful.

Fire Prevention Tips

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

Changing batteries

The best kind of fire is one that never starts. Fires can be devastating if severe enough. Not only are priceless items lost, but your sense of comfort and stability is also at risk if your home becomes severely damaged. There are many ways to be cautious and prevent fires to ensure the safety of your family and home. 

The number one thing every home should have to prevent fires is well-maintained smoke detectors. On matters this serious, you need to make sure that you are regularly testing your smoke detectors, changing the batteries as needed, and making sure they are working properly. You also need to make sure that you have the right number of smoke detectors for your home. 

Other things like planning an escape route, determining a family meeting point, and knowing who to call after 911 are also very important to establish with your family in case of a fire. Always remember that you can never plan too much. Being prepared is never a bad thing.

Stay Safe, SERVPRO of Evanston

Fireplace & Wood Stove Safety

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

From all of us at SERVPRO of Evanston, be safe, and Happy Holidays!

Follow these heating safety tips to help keep your home fire safe this winter.

• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet from your fireplace or wood stove.
• Do not burn paper in your fireplace or wood stove.
• Put the fire out before you go to sleep or leave your home.
• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned each year by a professional.
• Put ashes in a metal container with a lid. Place the container outside at least 10 feet from your home.

Fireplace safety

• Keep a glass or metal screen in front of your fi replace to prevent embers or sparks from jumping out.
• Make sure fireplace “on” switches and remote controls are out of the reach of children.

Wood stove safety

• Make sure your wood stove has been tested by a qualified testing laboratory.
• Keep the doors of your wood stove closed unless loading or stoking the live fire.

From all of us at SERVPRO of Evanston, be safe, and

Happy Holidays!

Put a freeze on Winter Holiday Fires

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Wishing a Safe and Happy Holidays from SERVPRO!

Put a freeze on Winter Holiday Fires

• Half of the home decoration fires in December are started by candles.
• More than 1/3 of home decoration fires are started by candles.
• Christmas is the peak day for candle fires.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that burns.
• A dry Christmas tree can burn very hot and very fast.
• More than 1 in every 5 Christmas tree fires were caused by a heat source too close to the tree.
• Read manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect.
• Make sure your tree is at least 3 feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, candles, or heat vents. Also, make sure your tree does not block exits.
• Get rid of your tree after Christmas or when it is dry.

From all of us at SERVPRO of Evanston, be safe, and Happy Holidays!

Firework Safety this Summer

6/27/2020 (Permalink)

Firework safety can prevent accidents and injury.

With the beginning of the summer and Fourth of July not too far off, we are gonna start seeing a lot of something: fireworks. While the National Safety Council does encourage everyone to enjoy firework displays put on by professionals, it is advised that we leave it only to the professionals. You really should not attempt to light off fireworks on your own, even if they are legal in your area. Fireworks can cause serious burn and eyes injuries to children and even adults if they malfunction or are not handled properly. SERVPRO of Evanston knows the danger and devastation fireworks can cause if you end up accidentally starting a fire. To help keep you safe this summer, we have compiled a few tips on how to safely use or be around fireworks this summer if you choose to do so. 

Safety Tips 

• Never allow children to handle fireworks. 
• Do not use fireworks if impaired by drugs or alcohol. 
• When using fireworks or standing nearby, protective eyewear should be used.
• Never light fireworks indoors and use them away from people, houses, and flammable materials. 
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person. 
• Have a bucket of water or hose nearby. 
• Do not try to make your own fireworks. 
• Never relight a dud. 
• Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the garbage. 
• Do not use illegal fireworks. 
• Do not shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers. 

In the tragic event of a fire from any cause, SERVPRO of Evanston is always ready to help. With a quick response time and efficient work, we can make it “Like it never even happened,” in no time so you can get back to enjoying your summer. 

Grill Safety

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

Grill fires can cause extensive damage and injuries. It is important to practice safe grilling this summer!

With summer and grilling season approaching, our team at SERVPRO of Evanston thought it was important to compile some tips for safe grilling as well as what to do in the event of a grill fire. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, an average of 19,000 patients end up in emergency rooms due to grill-related injuries each year. Gas and charcoal grills also cause approximately 4,200 house fires per year. 

Here are a few grilling safety tips we thought it may be helpful to share. 

• Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors. 
• Keep your grill clean to prevent fires. 
• Start a gas grill with the lid open. 
• Do not leave a grill unattended. 
• Never apply lighter fluid to hot coals. 
• Light charcoal in a charcoal chimney. 
• Keep your grill stable and give it plenty of space. 

In the event that there is a grill fire, here's what you can do to safely put it out and get help. 

• Turn off the burners on a gas or propane grill if you can safely reach the knobs. 
• Throw salt, baking soda, or sand on the fire to smother it. 
• Never put water on a grease fire -- it will only make it worse. 
• Close the grill lid to starve the fire of oxygen. 
• If the propane tank is involved in the fire, evacuate the area and call 911 for help. 

Remember, in the event of a fire SERVPRO of Evanston’s Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours, 365 days a year to help. 

For fire cleanup and restoration, call (847)-763-7010. 

Fire Readiness

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

It is important to be prepared in case of a fire.

SERVPRO of Evanston knows that a fire can be stressful for homeowners. We also know that timely response and thorough mitigation can alleviate the concerns that come with a fire. 

Here’s what you can do to be prepared in case of a fire: 

• Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.        
• Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one. 
• Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
• Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
• Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire“ to alert everyone that they must get out.
• Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
• Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire. 

When disaster strikes, call SERVPRO of Evanston at 847-763-7010.

Call the Fire and Water Professionals

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

This house fire was caused by a cigarette and lead to extensive damage to the entire house.

The fire was caused by a cigarette. The house was vacated and sat empty for a year. SERVPRO was asked to remediate the various damages to this home and provide the reconstruction for the portions we could not restore. As shown, the soot and smoke damage was pervasive. Rectifying these issues required the proper cleaning materials and significant elbow grease. 

Here at SERVPRO of Evanston, we know the devastation a house fire can bring to a family and we are eager to help. 

Here's what you can do to minimize the damage before help arrives: 

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading 
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery 
• Coat chrome faucets, trim, and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil 
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet 
• Do not waste any walls or painted surfaces 
• Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery 
• Do not clean any electrical equipment 
• Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor 

In the event of a fire, call the fire and water professionals. Call SERVPRO of Evanston. 

847-763-7010

What's That Smell?

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

Hydroxyl Machine taking care of a nasty smell in a structure.

Sometimes in the case of smoke and fire damage it can travel through out a building in no time.

In this particular case , a fire broke out in the apartment on the first floor and all of the apartments on the floors above were affected with smoke and fire damage.

In cases like these we still take the same steps as if the fire happened in the apartment.

We take our time cleaning the contents and the structure to ensure there is no soot or harmful contaminants in the air.

We also place the proper equipment to help the process along, one of the important components is an air scrubber.

The air scrubber filters the dirty air via a hepa filter and releases clean breathable air.

We also use a hydroxyl  which purifies the air and helps get rid of the smoke smell.

SERVPRO of Evanston will ensure the job is done right and in a timely fashion to get you back living in your home as soon as possible.

Accidents Happen

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Damage in a commercial business in Evanston, IL

Accidents happen and here at SERVPRO of Evanston we completely understand. 

Here are some emergency fire damage tips-

1.Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into carpet and avoid tracking

2. Keep Hands Clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork

3.If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor

4.Wipe soot from metal kitchen and bathroom faucets,trim and appliances

5.Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting you SERVPRO Franchise professional

6.Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances ( TV sets, radios,etc) that may have been close to fire , heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.

7.Don't attempt to shampoo carpets, rugs, or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO franchise professional.

Evanston Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

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 Evanston 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 – (847) 763-7010

Evanston Smoke and Soot Cleanup

6/17/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Evanston 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 Evanston 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 - (847) 763-7010