Fire Fears

10/11/2023 (Permalink)

A backdraft of emotions often sweeps over the homeowners after a fire ravages a home. Fear, uncertainty, stress and doubt can overwhelm the homeowner long after the flames have been extinguished and the smoke has cleared. The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO® of Aurora can help prevent fire damage from creating long term problems. SERVPRO of Aurora provides timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. These services help ensure your property, belongings and memories are restored to preloss condition when possible.

So after the first wave of heroes have rescued the property, let SERVPRO of Aurora help you restore it. With the industry approved training to employ rapid response, the utmost professionalism, cutting edge technology and open communication, we strive to restore not only the home, but the customer's peace of mind as well.

SERVPRO of Aurora is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help you regain control quickly.

A BUSINESS PLAN FOR FIRE EMERGENCIES

10/11/2023 (Permalink)

An emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses; however, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business during an emergency. OSHA suggests the following steps when developing such a plan.

Organize an Emergency Preparedness review with your employees to review your company's emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan.

Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked and well lit.

Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.

Kitchen Fire Damage Prevention

9/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lockport, Lemont, and Homer Glen understands the importance of keeping families and loved ones safe. According to the NFPA, “House fire claims over the five years have caused $6.9 billion  in property damage.” SERVPRO is dedicated to being a resource when you need us most. We want to make sure that our community is taking all the precautions necessary to prevent house fires. The following are tips to avoid fire damage in the kitchen.

Kitchen Fire Damage Safety

• When cooking food, stay at home and keep an eye on it.
• Keep children away from the kitchen when you are cooking
• Avoid food and grease buildup on cooking surfaces
• Solvents and flammable cleaners should be kept away from hot surfaces.
• Never store fuel in your home or business.
• Check that no electric cords from your appliances are hanging from the counters.

Smoke Detectors

• Replace smoke detectors every six months.
• Check the status of your smoke alarms.
• Plan a fire escape strategy for family members including pets.

In the event of fire or smoke damage, please contact SERVPRO of Lockport, Lemont, and Homer Glen to help restore your home or property. Our certified technicians focus on helping you restore your home to the pre-fire condition you know and love. If you have any questions about what we do after fire damage or need help recovering from a fire damage incident, give us a call at any time. 

Smart Ways To Prepare Your Workplace For A Fire

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Firefighting crews and emergency cleanup companies will help salvage your building in the event of a business fire.

Even if you think one could never affect you, disasters in the workplace can happen. It's much better to be ready for one than to scramble when an emergency occurs. Give yourself and your co-workers some peace of mind by preparing your office for the possibility of a business fire. There are some simple steps you can take today to spare you a lot of stress and panic in the future.

Develop an Evacuation Plan
You might not be able to prevent a fire from occurring in your office in every instance, but you can learn how to get to safety quickly. A big component of fire preparation is to come up with a fire escape plan. This should include the following elements:

Identifying all safe exists from all parts of the building
Assigning roles to members of your team
Designating a meeting place outside of your building
Practicing the evacuation once a year

Check the Fire extinguishers
You can spare your building a lot of fire damage and perhaps even stop a fire before it gets too large by using an extinguisher. If your Aurora, IL, building doesn't have one, now is the time to make this important purchase. Place at least one on every floor. Make sure you train people on how to use one.

Check and Update the Smoke Alarm System
A business fire could start during the day when your building is filled with workers. To alert people to get to safety, you need a fully functioning smoke alarm system. You should test it regularly and make the necessary repairs and adjustments as needed.

Check for Hazards
Periodically, walk through your office and identify any fire hazards. Store flammable liquids and chemicals properly. Fix electrical issues. You should also remove any evacuation obstacles.

Firefighting crews and emergency cleanup companies will help salvage your building in the event of a business fire. You need to do your part to stay safe and minimize the damage.

Legal Or Not Fireworks Are Risky

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

Each 4th of July, thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks which includes sparklers and firecrackers. 

Sparklers burn hot enough to cause third degree burns. Sparklers account for roughly one quarter of the emergency room firework injuries.

Fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires per year, including 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and 16,900 outside and other fires. These fires caused an average of three deaths, 40 civilian injuries and an average of $43 million in direct property damage as per the NFPA's Research, Data & Analytics Division.

Be careful and be safe by not using consumer fireworks. If you want to see fireworks, go to a public show put on by experts in your town and keep a close eye on children at events where fireworks are being used.

Let's keep the spark in our patriotism and not on our homes, friends and family members.

Have a happy and safe 4th of July!!!!! 

Outdoor Grill Safety

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

As we wrap up the summer and head into fall,  our team wanted to provide a reminder about grill safety and how to prevent a house fire. Having your dinner on the grill and your family enjoying your backyard is exactly what summer calls for, but it is important to prioritize safety amidst all the fun. Grilling is a fantastic way to prepare a meal, but it is also one of the more hazardous cooking methods due to the presence of an open flame.

While we are all for a backyard barbecue, we do like to remind everyone of the safety considerations to take in order to prevent fires.

Many people do not realize that grill fires are a frequent issue, occurring around 5,700 times a year as reported by the U.S. Fire Administration. However, by being a safe grillmaster, you can significantly reduce the chances that one will occur.

Safety Considerations to Prevent Grill Fires

Create a safe zone around your grill. Placing your grill in a convenient spot may seem like the most important thing, but we like to urge people to keep safety in mind as well. At least three feet around your grill should be free of flammable materials so there is no chance of a flare-up spreading to nearby objects. It is important to try and place the grill away from the home.

Clean your grill grates often. With each use, your grill grates can become saturated with food and grease that have become stuck over time. Brushing down your grates after each use is always recommended.

Never leave the grill unattended. Catching a grill fire before it gets out of hand can be the difference between a small incident and a large emergency, so never walk away from the grill when it is lit. 

Inspect the grill regularly. As with anything, grills can wear down with age, especially those that are gas-powered. Doing a visual inspection before each use can help you locate any gas leaks safely so you can repair them before using your grill again.

If you have a grill fire that does damage to your home, we are here to help. You can call us anytime, day or night, to have a quick response from our restoration experts.

Tips on extinguishing a Grease Fire

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Cooking is the number one cause in home fires and injuries. Annually, there are 160,000 cooking fires caused by ignition of food or cooking materials.

Knowing how to smother a grease fire can help keep you, your family, and friends from getting hurt or having a severe house fire.

If A Grease Fire Starts:

1. Cover the flames with a metal lid or cookie sheet. Leave the cover on until it has cooled.
2. Turn off the heat source.
3. If it’s small and manageable, pour baking soda or salt on it to smother the fire.
4. As a last resort, spray the fire with a Class B dry chemical fire extinguisher.
5. Do not try to extinguish the fire with water.
6. Do not attempt to move the pot or pan outside.

DO NOT use flour, baking powder, or other cooking powders that resemble baking soda or salt. They act differently, and could make the fire worse.

If You Are Unable To Extinguish The Grease Fire:

1. GET OUT!! You need to leave as soon as possible to prevent injury or loss of life
2. When you leave, close the door behind you. This will help contain the fire inside.
3. When you get to a safe distance from the fire, call 911 right away.
4. Don’t re-enter your home until it has the “all clear” from the fire department.

Tips To Prevent Grease Fires:

1. Stay in the kitchen while you’re cooking. One of the leading causes of kitchen fires is unattended cooking.
2. Don’t cook if you’re exhausted or inebriated.
3. Keep anything that can catch on fire away from your stovetop.
4. Remove as much moisture from the food, and don’t add frozen foods to hot oil.
5. Keep an eye on the temperature of your oil. If you see smoke or smell oil that means your oil is too hot. Turn off the burner and let it cool down.
6. Heat the oil slowly.
7. Add food gently, so there is no splashing.
8. Keep a lid in arms reach in case of a fire.
9. Always keep children and pets away from the stove while cooking.

4 Most Common Causes of House Fires

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

Knowledge comes before prevention, which is why we want to educate you regarding disasters that could occur. While it’s never fun imagining all the “what-ifs,” it’s an integral step to strategizing and planning how you can take the necessary steps to avoid the “what-ifs” to the best of your abilities. This includes knowing what the most common causes of house fires are! 

We’ve compiled a list of 4 of the most common causes of house fires so you know what precautions to take to avoid your home catching ablaze.

1) Cooking

You probably already guessed—cooking is the most common cause of house fires across the country. We frequent our kitchens often to cook meals (or even just to microwave them), and many of the kitchen appliances we frequently use include electrical components as well as open flames if you have a gas stove. Your microwave, stove, oven, and even your fridge and dishwasher are susceptible to causing house fires while you cook if you don’t properly clean up grease and other flammable materials that you may use while cooking, like oil. Overheating food in the microwave leading to combustion fires is also very real! Be careful while cooking, and don’t forget to clean up as you go or, at the very least, after you’re done cooking.

2) Heaters

Another common culprit of house fires is heaters. Heaters are often placed too close to clothes, furniture, bedding, fabric, and other flammable materials, which burst into flames when they become too hot. Having clothing hung over them to dry or placing them too close to curtains are also common ways that heaters cause house fires, so you should always use space heaters with caution. Make sure they’re placed on even ground and are at least two feet away from anything flammable. Heaters should also be regularly cleaned. 

3) Cigarettes

Smoking cigarettes can lead to deadly house fires. Be careful about where and when you smoke cigarettes to avoid house fires at all costs. Cigarettes and other materials that are smoked should always be properly extinguished and disposed of, and flicking them into shrubs, onto your porch or balcony, or elsewhere is a potential recipe for disaster. Be vigilant and stay safe while smoking near your home, if you do it at all.

4) Washing Machines and Dryers

Laundry appliances, in particular clothes dryers, are another very common cause of house fires. The build-up of lint, dust, dirt, as well as the clothes circulating within clothes dryers, can catch aflame within the machine or due to lint in the external dryer vent. Washing machines and clothes dryers can alight because of electrical faults, and this is also true of any large kitchen appliances or other appliances like furnaces, fireplaces, and wood stoves that you may have in your home.

No matter what may cause damage to your home, whether it be fire, water, a storm, or mold, our team at SERVPRO of Aurora can help you at a moment’s notice. Just contact us at (630) 862-3930 for a highly trained technician to be on their way to you! This franchise is independently owned and operated.

Different Types of Fire Cleaning Methods

1/26/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning Processes That May Be Recommended

If your company in Aurora, IL, has suffered from smoke damage, Then you may be wondering what the best way to clean and restore your office items are. According to many fire damage restoration professionals there are several methods, from dry-cleaning to immersion, and each one is designed for a different purpose. Here are a few cleaning processes that may be recommended.

1. Wet Cleaning

Wet cleaning is perhaps what is most commonly thought of when it comes to washing away smoke damage. It involves using a liquid cleaner on heavier damaged areas.

2. Spray and Wipe

In many cases the content cleaning of solid materials, such as desks or filing cabinets, can be done with the spray and wipe method. It's usually done using a spray cleaner and wiping it off with a rag. After cleaning you may want to move items to content storage until repairs can be completed.

3. Dry-cleaning

Using this method is primarily for items that need to be pre-treated, those sensitive to wet cleaners, or items that need only a light bit of cleaning. The process may involve a spray cleaner or powder depending on the item and damage type.

4. Immersion Cleaning

In some cases smoke damaged items will need to be immersed in a cleaner. Depending on the damage level the item may either be left to soak or simply dipped so it can be completely submerged in the cleaner before being washed off.

5. Foam Cleaning

This method is usually used when dealing with upholstery is that might react poorly to liquid cleaners. A special foam is used to avoid soaking the fabric, and can effectively remove any smoke odor the fire may have left behind.

The cleaning style your restoration professional uses to restore your office items may depend on the item type and the degree of damage. Light damage may be removed with the dry-cleaning process, while some items made need to be immersed in the cleaner for a time to properly rid of any smoke or soot damage. Others can be simply sprayed with the solution and wiped off.

Call the experts at SERVPRO of Aurora - 630-862-3930

Make Sure Your Business Is Prepared

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

You hope to never have a fire in your Aurora, IL, business, but if one were to occur, you don’t want to be without a contingency plan. The best way to prepare for an emergency is to create an action plan before the actual emergency. Here are four steps to take before a fire strikes.

1. Create a Thorough Plan

Discuss with your employees or managers how to make the most effective emergency strategies possible. In the written plan, include methods for reporting safety concerns, emergency contact information, the evacuation plan, emergency shut-down procedures, and individual safety policies.

2. Distribute the Contingency Plan

Your employees should be able to respond quickly to emergencies if they already know what to do. Include emergency plans in all your new employee training and hold regular meetings to make sure everyone is up-to-date on current procedures. Make it clear who is responsible for reporting emergencies and whose responsibility it is to make use of fire extinguishers or other emergency equipment.

3. Maintain Clear Evacuation Routes

Keep emergency exits clearly labeled and clear of obstacles. Keep pathways clear of loose cords or spare objects, such as garbage cans or unused furniture that sometimes gets set in back hallways and might become hazards when people try to evacuate.

4. Monitor Emergency Equipment

You have smoke alarms and fire extinguishers in your building, but are they in good working order? Take time to check smoke alarms at least once a month to make sure the batteries are still good and there are enough alarms for the whole building. Check the expiration date on all fire extinguishers. If you have other emergency equipment such as sprinklers or defibrillators, you can include these in your regular emergency equipment checkups.

While no one ever expects a fire, taking the time to create and maintain a contingency plan can keep your employees safe and save time and money when it is time to restore your business after a fire.

Commercial Fire Cleanup

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

A fire takes over your business at 3 in the morning, what do you do? When the stress is the highest, you can call on SERVPRO to take care of the cleanup and restoration. Our team works in a timely manner to get business back to normal. We take care of everything from the first alarm call to the final inspection, and we are a company you can trust to get the job done right. We do not run from a job, SERVPRO is ready for any commercial fire that arises. We do smoke, soot, and fire cleanup no matter how big the fire is. We take care of the fire damage restoration, and we make sure that your buildings are commercial fire cleanup ready. We offer 24-hour service for any size job.
When a business is involved in a fire, we know how costly the damage can be. SERVPRO is always on hand to help you when you need us most. Our professional approach and our expertise take worry out of the equation so that you can focus on the important things like keeping your customers safe, employees present, and business running smoothly.

Fire Sprinkler Systems: Myths and Facts

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Automatic sprinkler systems have a proven track record of protecting life and property for over 100 years. However, there are still some common misconceptions about the operation and effectiveness of automatic fire sprinkler systems.  Source: American Fire Sprinkler Association

Myth: “A smoke detector provides enough protection.”

Fact: Smoke detectors save lives by providing an early warning to a smoke or fire incident, but can do nothing to extinguish a growing fire or protect those physically unable to escape on their own, such as the elderly or small children. Too often, battery operated smoke detectors fail to function because the batteries are dead or have been removed. As the percent of homes in America that were “protected” with smoke detectors increased from zero to more than 70%, the number of fire deaths in homes did not significantly decrease.

Myth: “Water damage from a sprinkler system will be more extensive than fire damage.”

Fact: Water damage from a building sprinkler system will be much less severe than the damage caused by water from fire fighting hose lines or smoke and fire damage if the fire is allowed to spread. Quick response sprinklers release 8-24 gallons of water per minute compared to 80-125 gallons per minute discharged by a fire hose.

Myth: “When a fire occurs, every sprinkler head goes off.”

Fact: Sprinkler heads are individually activated by fire temperatures in excess of 155°. Residential fires are usually controlled with one sprinkler head. 90% of all fires are controlled with six or fewer heads and a study conducted during 80 years of automatic sprinkler use found that 82% of the fires that have occurred were controlled by two or fewer sprinkler heads.

Myth: “Sprinklers are designed to protect property, but are not effective for life safety.”

Fact: Sprinklers provide a high level of life safety. Statistics reveal that there has never been any multiple loss of life in a fully sprinklered building. Property losses are 85% less in residences with fire sprinklers compared to those without sprinklers. The combination of automatic sprinklers and early warning systems in all buildings could reduce overall injuries, loss of life and property damage by at least 50%.

Smoking Hazards in the House

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

Smoking materials, including cigarettes, pipes, and cigars, are the cause of starting more than 17,000 home structure fires reported to U.S. fire departments every year! Fires from cigarettes and smoking materials cause nearly 1,000 deaths and 3,000 injuries each year in the U.S., according to the National Fire Protection Association. Find out what you need to know about keeping your home and family safe from smoking hazards in your home.

Smoking Hazards

Smoke is a mixture of heated particles and gases, and it’s impossible to predict its exact make up. The items burned, the temperatures reached, and the amount of oxygen available all play a part in determining the type of smoke produced. While smoke may seem to dissipate quickly, the quick cooling of the particles leave a film and odor able to penetrate the contents of a building, and its structure.

The Importance of Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors allow people to get up see what’s going on. Most the time when we have a fatal fire, there is not a working smoke detector. It’s important to have a safety plan that prepares you to think about where that fire is and how you’re going to get away from it, or get out of the house.

As the seasons change over into the next one, make sure to take the time to change out the batteries in your smoke detectors and test them as well. You don’t want to be in the position where you’re not able to detect massive amounts of smoke in your home until it’s too late.

Smoke Damage

Smoke damage is the physical damage caused by smoke that’s generated by a fire, not the damage caused by the fire itself. Smoke doesn’t destroy items like fire does, it just coats them with soot and a foul smelling odor.

Smoke damage is also a major health risk, whether it’s the result of a full on house fire or a localized fire that was contained to one room. During smoke inhalation, you have more carbon monoxide in your lungs which prohibits oxygen into your body.

Getting your Home Back After a Fire

No matter how a home fire occurs, it can be devastating for a homeowner to shoulder. If you are a smoker or live with a smoker, make sure to practice safe smoking habits to deter the onset of a home fire.

Fire Safety Facts and Tips

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Our team at SERVPRO of Aurora, wants you and your family to be in the know about fire safety and to always take precautions to avoid a fire in your home. According to the Red Cross, if a fire starts in your home you may have as little as two minutes to escape.

Tips for Fire Safety:

• Have a discussion with the entire family about a fire escape plan and practice the plan annually.
• install smoke alarms on every level of the home and especially inside bedrooms
• Make sure you test the smoke alarms every month and always have batteries on deck when they run out.
• If a fire occurs in your home, get out and call for help. Never go back inside to grab anything.

American Red Cross Fire Facts:

• The American Red Cross responded to more than 74,000 disasters in communities across the United States last year and 93 percent of these were fire-related.
• Sprinklers and smoke alarms together cut your risk of dying in a home fire 82% in relation to having neither.
• Smoking is the leading cause of home fire deaths.
• Fires kill more Americans each year than all natural disasters combined, and affect people from all backgrounds and geographic locations.
• Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries. And, two out of three cooking fires start with the range or stove

Burning Up the Fire Damage Remediation Process

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

When a devastating fire occurs in your home, it is hard to think ahead to the recovery process. You may not even know where to begin moving forward. Once the superficial signs of a fire are cleared away, you may still smell the smoke over the long term. Every fire is inherently different, but skilled professionals at SERVPRO can help you get to the bottom of the issue through a standard fire procedure.

The Beginning

Once emergency services (if required) take care of the worst of the fire damage, SERVPRO can come in and begin cleaning. After the smoke clears and the dust settles, our fire damage remediation specialists will move in. Depending on the type of damage presented from the fire, the technician will follow a standard procedure. 

Our technicians will carefully inspect the surrounding area and test the damaged sections to determine the extend of the damage. Our technicians always have a restore before replace mentality, ensuring that they will avoid anything that might exacerbate the damage. While they're inspecting and testing, they will walk you through the process in order to develop a plan.

Rising Action: Following a Plan

Depending on the severity of the fire damage, our technician will ensure the security of your property. If necessary, they will board up missing walls and windows, and set tarps around the roof of your home to maintain privacy.

Water removal is also an important next time. Many people don't realize that water damage appears almost at the same time as smoke damage. To rid the situation of water, our experts will set up dehumidifiers. 

After water has been removed, it'll be time to get to the brunt of the work. To avoid agitating troublesome particles within the damage area, the technician will remove smoke and soot damage with extreme care. A fire damage cleaning will take restorable items into account and odors will be fought with using fogging equipment and air scrubbers.

The Final Step

Once all of the major fire damage issues have been taken care of, in addition to the water damage and smoke and soot on your home's surface, we can begin the remaining minor repairs. Since we are a licensed contractor with the State of Illinois, we can handle any building services that may be needed from replacing drywall and painting over a refurbished surface. 

Smoke Detectors Save Lives!

5/27/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives and provide you and your family time to leave the home and get to safety or alert you to potential fires in the home like a cooking fire or an unattended candle. In the event of a home fire, soot and smoke damage can cause damage throughout your home and require repairs and restoration. 

SERVPRO of Loxkprt, Lemont, Homer Glen has the technicians, expertise, and experience to clean and restore your home to preloss condition. After a fire, our crew's inventory and pack out the contents in your home. Contents are then brought back to our secure, climate-controlled warehouse where items are recleaned and packed into new clean boxes. While contents are being cleaned, crews work to clean and restore your home. Once your home has been restored, all contents are packed back and your home is ready to be put back together as it was before the fire. 

Electrical Fires

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Electrical failure or malfunctions account for an estimated 34,000 home fires, on average, per year and result in roughly 440 deaths and $1.3 billion in direct property damage according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). This threat is higher in older homes built before the 1950s due to lower electrical wiring standards, however; even newer homes are at risk. Older homes were built to handle 30 amps of power, but most newer homes demand 100 to 200 amps. Listed below are some of the warning signs that may indicate an electrical problem in your home:

• Flickering or dimming lights.
• Switches or outlets that are hot to touch and/or give off a strong burnt rubber odor.
• Discolored cords, outlets and switch plates.
• Repeatedly blown fuses and tripped circuit breakers.

If you have any any of these, contact a licensed electrician immediately to examine and repair any electrical problems and if the need for fire restoration is required, we are there to make it "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO of Aurora, Illinois, 630-862-3930.

Have a Fire Escape Plan

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Make an emergency evacuation plan for your home.

Every second counts during a fire. Fire experts agree, people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late to get out.*

In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared with an escape plan in place. A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows only 26 percent of families have developed and practiced a home fire escape plan. Once a plan is developed, it is critical that everyone in the home understands the plan; the best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year. Increase your chance of surviving a fire by ensuring you have working smoke detectors in place, building an escape plan, and then practicing the escape plan. The following are a few steps to help you develop an emergency escape plan:

Draw a map of each level of your home and show all doors and windows. Find two ways to get out of each room. Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily.

Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second and third floors. Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory. Store them near the window where they will be used.

Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance from your home where everyone can meet after they’ve escaped. Make sure to mark the meeting location on your escape plan. Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them. Plan for everyone in your home with special considerations for elderly or disabled individuals. Practice your fire escape plan at night and during the daytime. SERVPRO of Aurora wants you to stay safe and prepare now to ensure you are ready for any disaster. *Tips provided by American Red Cross and National Fire Protection Association

Fire Risks in Your Home

2/28/2021 (Permalink)

The holidays lead to the highest instance of residential fires each year. But just because the holidays are over, it doesn’t mean you’re in the clear as far as the risk of home fires go. Unintentional home fires can occur at any time of year, and according to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), are caused by four main activities: cooking, heating, using electrical equipment, and smoking. Knowing some of the main risk factors of home fires can help you be on alert throughout the seasons, and decrease the chances of a fire occurring in your own home.

On average, fire departments in the U.S. respond to 350,000 home structure fires each year, which result in 2,620 civilian deaths, 11,220 injuries, and $6.9 billion in property damage. Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and injuries, causing more than 170,000 fires annually, but smoking is the leading cause of home fire deaths. Fires caused by smoking account for 4.5x more deaths than do fires of any other category. Similarly, space heaters account for a disproportional amount of fire-related deaths (16%), considering they cause only 4% of home fires.

Other fire facts to be aware of are that the instance home fires peak nightly between 5pm and 8pm, and peak weekly on Saturdays and Sundays. Alcohol is also often a factor in the cause and result of home fires; impairment can affect how safely heating or cooking equipment is used, and can inhibit residents from getting to safety after a fire has started.

If you ask us here at SERVPRO of Lockport, Lemont, Homer Glen, keeping an eye on the safety instructions for all cooking, heating, and electrical equipment, and never cooking or smoking while excessively tired or under the influence is a New Year’s Resolution worth keeping!

Fire Safety For Kids

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Lockport, Lemont, Homer Glen we care about the safety of your family. By sharing this information from the American Red Cross, we hope to shed some light on something we see too often, house fires. 

A home fire is a devastating event, and one that you never count on happening. Your children are most at risk when this disaster occurs. Unfortunately, many home fires are started by children playing with dangerous household items – especially lighters and matches. Taking sensible precautions in the home and teaching your child how to escape from a fire can help your family avoid this type of heartbreak.            

Prevent Your Child from Starting Fires

The U.S. Fire Administration estimates that $280 million in property is destroyed each year as the result of children playing with fire.

• Keep matches, lighters and other ignitable substances in a secured location out of your child’s reach. Only use lighters with child-resistant features.
• Invest in flameless candles. These candles contain a light bulb rather than an open flame, and take the danger out of your child knocking over a candle.

Fire Safety information from redcross.org

4 Questions About How Smoke Damage Can Affect Your Building

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

4 Questions About How Smoke Damage Can Affect Your Building

Even small fires can cause a lot of damage to your business. In particular, smoke damage can ruin your items and the structure of your building. Smoke and soot can eat away at the materials in your building. This is why it is important to have them removed immediately. Acting fast can reduce the amount of smoke and soot damage your business sees. One way to do that is to hire a professional remediation company that understands smoke and can clean your items.

1. How Does Smoke Impact Your Building?
Smoke reacts differently with each material in your building. Additionally, the type and temperature of the fire can lead to different types of smoke damage. One way that all types of smoke affect your building is by hiding in tiny cracks. There, they go undetected and can lead to your business smelling like smoke. Special cleaners are necessary to get rid of these particles.

2. What Is the Cleaning Process for Smoke?
The cleaning process starts by ventilating the building so smoke particles can leave. Then, every surface will be thoroughly cleaned of soot and smoke. Special cleaners will be used that remove the particles and the odors. This must be done as soon as possible after a fire.

3. What Can Be Salvaged?
Depending on the extent of the damage, some items may not be salvageable. When looking to save certain items, several factors must be considered. Someone who understands smoke damage will be able to look at your items and tell you if they can be cleaned or not.

4. Can Upholstery Be Cleaned?
Today, some special tools and cleaners can find hidden smoke particles and remove them from porous upholstery. This is something that must be done by a professional. Attempting to clean upholstered items by yourself can cause more damage.
If you wish to reduce the amount of damage in your building after a fire, you should look into smoke cleaning. This process will remove the hidden particles and tell you if your items can be salvaged.

The Fire Stopped, but Our Work has Just Begun - SERVPRO of Aurora

1/10/2021 (Permalink)

When dealing with the aftermath of a fire in Aurora, IL there's a lot on your plate.

One of your top priorities is probably the structure of your house. However, a person's life is made up of all the little things that fill up a home. Can they be saved, as well? With some techniques like dry-cleaning, they can be.

Electronics

Some of the most expensive items to replace are electronics. There's a chance you may not have to. Smoke residue can cause corrosion, but if it is removed soon enough it won't have the chance.

You should not turn on any of your devices to check their status, as this could cause further harm. Technology like this can be delicate and complicated, so it is in your best interest to leave all content cleaning to certified fire remediation specialists. Examples of items that can be restored are:

Laptops and computers

Televisions and DVD players

Sound systems and speakers

Telephones

Clothing and Woven Materials
You don't want all your clothes and curtains smelling like smoke for months to come, do you?

Dry-cleaning is the method of choice for clothes and fabrics. If they only hold a light amount of residue, this should be enough. If they are more heavily inundated with particles, you should follow up with a wet-cleaning, as well. Upholstery or other heavy fabrics that can't be subjected to shrinkage or wet cleaning can go through a foam cleaning process.

Paper Goods

Although delicate, you may be surprised to find out that paper items like documents and photographs can be salvaged, as well. Provided that they aren't mostly burned or blackened, there are a variety of techniques used to restore them to a much better condition: de-humidification, vacuum drying, freezer drying, dry-cleaning or air drying. They might not look brand new, but what's important is that they are visible or usable.

In the hands of a competent fire damage service, there is the possibility that almost everything you own can be saved from content storage. Before throwing things away, call in the professionals, SERVPRO Aurora, Illinois.

You are welcome to call us at any time, 630-862-3930
.

Fire Readiness!

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

There is not much scarier than the threat of a fire to your home or business. Whether you consider the potential hazards it poses to your safety, or to the integrity of your property, a fire can create a panic. At SERVPRO of Aurora, IL, we are committed to restoring your home to pre-damage conditions in the case that a fire occurs. However, we want to also equip you with the knowledge necessary to ensure the safety of you, your family, and friends if a fire develops in a building you occupy.

If a Fire Starts:

• Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher.
• Remember to get out, stay out, and call 911 or your local emergency phone number.
• Yell “Fire!” several times and go outside right away. If you live in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.
• If closed doors handles are warm or smoke blocks your primary escape route, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to the touch.
• If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Close all doors behind you.
• If smoke, heat, or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with doors closed. Place a wet towel under the door and call the fire department or 911. Open a window and wave a brightly colored cloth or flashlight to signal for help.
• Once you are outside, go to your meeting place and then send one person to call the fire department. If you cannot get to your meeting place, follow your family emergency communication plan.

If Your Clothes Catch on Fire:

STOP what you are doing.

DROP to the ground and cover your face if possible.

ROLL over and over or back and forth until the flames go out.

THEN, once the flames are out, cool the burned skin with water for three to five minutes. Call for medical attention

Fires aren’t occurrences you can predict, but planning for the potential hazard can make all the difference in affecting the extent of damage to your property and the continued safety of those inside the building. 

If a fire does occur, call SERVPRO for your cleaning and restoration needs at 630-862-3930; we remain dedicated to returning your home to its previous condition, “Like it never even happened.”

How To Select a Fire Extinguisher

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

How To Select a Fire Extinguisher

One of the surest safeguards against a residential fire is a well-placed fire extinguisher. However, different methods are required to put out different kinds of fire. Keep in mind the following facts when purchasing a unit in Illinois.

1. A-Type

The first type of extinguisher rating is the “A” classification, which means that it is an effective fire suppressant against ordinary combustibles. A typical home fire in a garbage can or wood pile is of this type. A water-based extinguisher will usually only be rated for this type of fire but can still be important to have around in certain limited scenarios.

2. B- and C-Type

Oil-based fires comprise the “B” classification. It is important not to use a water-filled fire extinguisher on an oil fire, as this can cause it to spread laterally while the flaming oil floats on top of the water. The “C” classification involves combustible fumes, such as those from gasoline or aerosols. Carbon dioxide, foam and power-based extinguishers are the most common types rated to deal with these fires.

3. Electrical

An extinguisher rated to put out an electrical fire is essential for fire preparedness. Most of the above powder and foam types of extinguisher can put out an electrical fire, since these materials coat the surface of the appliance and prevent oxygen from reaching the burning components. Any electrical fire that gets out of hand should be abandoned. It may require a fire restoration service to bring the affected area back to its original condition.

Remember that many smaller and more affordable fire extinguisher models are only designed for a single use. Larger ones with a capacity indicator on the handle can be used multiple times, but they must be refilled. Many extinguishers are rated to handle multiple fire types, so choose one with the versatility necessary for your home.

SAFE OUTDOOR COOKING

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

Summer is a great time to enjoy cooking outdoors with your family and friends, but that means it’s also time to remind ourselves of fire safety. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), non-gas grills were involved in 1,300 home fires per year. That’s why they’ve offered the following tips for using outdoor grills or fire pits.

Starting Fires

• Always build a campfire downwind from the tent area. Clear vegetation and dig a pit before building your fire. 
• Place an outdoor grill six feet from your home on level ground.
• When using a charcoal grill, only use starter fluids designed for barbecue grills, never gasoline or other accelerants
• Store liquid fire starter  away from your tent and campfire, and only use dry kindling to freshen a campfire.
• Never add starter fluid to charcoal or kindling that is already on fire

Extinguishing Fires

• Fully extinguish fires before leaving a campsite or going to bed. Start by dousing the fire with water, then gently spread the ashes out to cool. Only leave a fire site once the ashes are cool to the touch
• Keep something on hand in case the fire spreads. A fire extinguisher is obviously the most effective tool, but a spray bottle of water or garden hose can work if you’re grilling in your yard. If you’re camping, a bucket of sand is a helpful tool to keep near a camp fire.
• Never empty used coals directly into a trash can. Designate a metal container (with a lid) just for the purpose of disposing of coal.

For more information on fire safety, follow the NFPA on Facebook and Twitter.

How To Restore Your Commercial Property Quickly After a Fire

7/5/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial fire cleanup in Montgomery, IL

A fire can devastate a retail store, restaurant, office or another type of commercial space. Property owners may be at a loss at how to restore it to good condition again. Professionals typically have to clean and rebuild a property. Some companies also offer mitigation services to protect against future fire damage.
It’s normal for property owners to wonder how quickly they can resume receiving customers and working in their space. Fortunately, companies in Montgomery, IL, offer both restoration and mitigation so that enterprises can kill two birds with one stone. It's an easy and convenient way to get past a disaster; property owners simply have to make one phone call to start the process.

Take Advantage of Incredible Expertise

Fire damage restoration may involve the following:

• Boarding and roof tarping
  
• Water removal and drying
  
• Smoke and soot removal
  
• Aesthetic cleaning and repair
  
  

A quality restoration company can send an insurance adjuster to a location to assess the damage and complete the necessary paperwork. A fire can pollute the inside of a building and spark malfunctions such as pipe flooding or electrical outages. A knowledgeable insurance professional knows what to look for and report so that a property owner can pay little out-of-pocket expenses for repairs.

Avoid a Future Nightmare
An unexpected event can be a learning experience. Many property owners realize that a disaster can strike at any time and they should take necessary precautions. Fire mitigation can protect business property, employees, and profits. Professionals are dedicated to making a commercial property structurally sound so that the damage of a second fire is as minimal as possible. Of course, nobody can predict the final outcome of a fire, but mitigation can nonetheless be effective in curbing its financial and emotional consequences.
At first, property owners may look at the fire damage to a building and think that their enterprise has to close. Restoration experts can perform a top-notch cleanup job to give people a second chance after a fire.

Meet the Smoke Cleaning Machines

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Thermal foggers provide an effective way to remove smoke odors

Smoke Cleaning Machines

Experiencing a house fire can be devastating. Whether you've been through a fire caused by a natural disaster or a human mishap, your main priority is to get your Sugar Grove, IL, home back to a safe and livable state. Smoke cleaning is a crucial part of a complete fire damage remediation plan, and here are some of the machines that do the work.

1. Thermal Foggers
Thermal foggers provide an effective way to remove smoke odors. Your team will use the machine to heat a deodorizing agent and spray it throughout your home in the form of a fog. The mixture from the machine permeates deep into hard-to-reach areas and attaches to smoke particles. The deodorizing agent absorbs the smoke particles and neutralizes the offensive odors. Thermal foggers, using thermally-activated deodorant droplets to encapsulate and eliminate smells, are also effective for improving the air quality of your home.

2. Ozone Machines
Ozone machines are powerful odor removers. They use ozone, also known as enriched oxygen, which is an oxidizing gas that neutralizes odorous molecules. The machines are used in a controlled space and thus the gas can infiltrate carpet, furniture, and cracks to destroy the smoke smell. The extra atom of oxygen in ozone (O3) attaches to and destroys the contaminants by oxidation. The machines are valuable for smoke cleaning as ozone will neutralize nearly any organic odor.

3. Air Scrubbers
Air scrubbers are portable filtration devices that are frequently used for cleaning up smoke damage. The system removes gasses and particles by drawing in the air from a certain area and sending it through a series of contaminant-removing filters. Air scrubbers use filters that are specifically designed to remove smoke odors, such as HEPA filters and activated carbon filters.
While each fire emergency requires a customized approach to remediation, smoke cleaning should always be part of the plan. Contact your local experts in this industry as they have the training, equipment, and resources necessary to return your home to its pre-fire shape.

Children as Young as Three Should Be Taught How To Escape a Home Fire

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

Young woman doing low crawl

If only life had a pause button. When the smoke detectors go off in Montgomery, IL, there’s no time to review safety procedures. If you’re blocked from reaching your children, their response will be largely decided by the training and preparedness you’ve practiced as part of your kid's safety.

Three Baby Steps To Escaping a Fire

The three most successful basic actions you can teach your kids to know in a home fire are

• The bed roll
  
• The fire crawl
  
• The door check
  
  

Put simply, stay low and think slow for the sake of kid's safety. Everyone should act expeditiously, but without plenty of practice, most people – and especially children – are likely to panic if they don’t calm their thinking down first.

Roll Out of Bed
Since heat rises during a fire, you need to stay low. When the smoke detectors go off, children should know not to stand up. Instead, they should turn over until they are at the edge of the bed and facing the floor. Then they can slide off the bed and begin crawling towards the nearest designated fire escape.

Understand the Fire Crawl
The crawl of first choice is the dog walk. Get down on elbows and knees, keeping your face as close to the floor as is reasonably possible. This gets you low enough to avoid the worst heat and smoke but allows most people to move relatively quickly toward an exit.
The second choice is the low crawl. This is what soldiers use when under fire. Your body is almost entirely on the floor with your head raised only as much as necessary to see where you’re going.

Check Those Doors!
If an escape route goes through a door, teach your kids to always check it with the back of their hand before opening. If it’s hot, find another exit!
When you practice the fire drill with children during warm weather in Montgomery, IL, it can be like a game for them. If you have any questions about kid's safety, ask a professional fire restoration company for tips and advice.

Fires are Preventable

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to your property, certain safety precautions can be taken to help prevent fires.

When it comes to your property, certain safety precautions can be taken to help prevent fires. below are some tips that can help you to prevent a fire.

Electrical and Appliances Safety

• Replace frayed and old worn electrical cords on appliances. Also make sure all extension cords are in good working condition and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
• If an appliance has a three prong plug, use it only in a three slot outlet. Never force it into a two slot outlet or extension cord.
• Immediately shut off light switches that are hot to the touch and lights that flicker and have replaced by a trained professional.

Fireplaces and Woodstoves

• Inspect and clean woodstove pipes and chimneys annually and check for damage or obstructions monthly.
• Always use a fireplace screen heavy enough to stop a burning log from rolling out and big enough to cover the entire opening of the fireplace to catch flying embers.
• Make sure that the fire is completely out before leaving your home or going to bed.

For more fire safety tips, visit ready.org and if a fire should occur call SERVPRO of Aurora, Illinois at 630-862-3930 and our trained professionals will make it "Like it never even happened."

Protecting Your Building After a Fire

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

Dealing with a fire in Aurora, IL, can be overwhelming.

If you have a business in Aurora, IL that has suffered fire damage, you may be wondering how to best protect what's left. There are many aspects to consider when starting your fire cleanup process. Flames, smoke, heat, and water all come into play and can damage or destroy your property and possessions. Your insurance company will likely recommend specialists in fire damage restoration to help you recover. Here are some steps you may expect in the process:

Assess the Damage
The fire department should advise when it's safe to enter your property again. They may have disconnected utility services; do not try to turn them back on by yourself to assess the damage. A professional contractor and an insurance adjuster will need to come on-site to assess the destruction. You should also talk with your insurance company about the value of your property, including damaged or total-loss items.

Interim Protection
When a fire ravages your building, the flames themselves aren't the only danger. Smoke and water damage can occur as the fire is being put out and as the building sits awaiting repairs. Roof tarp services are effective at preventing additional deterioration. Having a professionally-installed emergency roof tarp helps keep out rain, snow, and animals as contractors work to restore the property. Fire cleanup and roof repair can be a lengthy project, so a tarp will help keep the elements at bay.

Repair and Restore
It's important to select a team of experts who specialize in fire and water damage restoration to quickly restore your building. Though a fire can be devastating, the right contractors can help make the recovery process smoother. Aside from the obvious structural repairs, your building may need expert service to remove lingering smoke odors and soot.

Dealing with a fire in Aurora, IL, can be overwhelming. Use this information to find the right fire cleanup team for your needs. Your business can be back in its clean, safe state and restored to its pre-fire condition.

Home Fire Escape Plan

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

You had fire drills growing up at school, (hopefully) you have the occasional fire drill at work now that you are an adult, but do you ever have fire drills at home? Coming up with and practicing family safety drills can help to make sure your family is prepared in the event of an emergency. It is an important topic to discuss with your family, especially children.

The National Fire Protection Association has a helpful section on how to create a family fire escape plan. It includes how to draw a fire escape path for your home, how to reinforce fire safety to younger children, and tips how to stay as safe as possible during a fire.

Some of the tips include:

• Call 911 as soon as possible, even if you think you can contain the fire
• Know at least 2 ways out of each room
• Have a designated outside meeting place a safe distance from the home
• Assign “partners” for young, elderly, or family members with mobility issues
• Close Doors behind you as you leave each room to slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire

Your family’s safety is the first priority. After emergency services have done their job SERVPRO of Aurora will be here to help you repair, restore, and recover your belongings.

Fire Clean-up

9/2/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Aurora - (630) 862-3930

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 Aurora 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) 862-3930

The Science of Deodorization

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

When you’re dealing with a bad smell in your home or office, it can be downright distracting.

And depending on what’s caused the smell, it might be really tough to get rid of it. If the odor was caused by a fire and/or smoke damage, for example, the scent can linger for months, if not years.

If this is something affecting your home or business, you might be tempted to spray an air freshener and try to forget about it, but we have some bad news: you won’t be able to forget. The air freshener won’t make the smell go away.

The good news is, team SERVPRO of Aurora has the equipment and scientific know how to eradicate those bad odors. And we mean ERADICATE them. We don’t try to cover up the smell with perfumes, we use scientifically proven methods to get rid of them.

Here’s a few of the odors we can deal with:

• Cigarette Smoke
• Pet Odors
• Decomposition
• Mold

And we deal with those using a few different methods. One is by using a piece of equipment called an “ozone generator.”

An ozone generator works by pumping ozone into the affected area. Ozone is a gas that’s made up of three particles of oxygen. (Ozone is different from the “oxygen” or O2 humans need to breathe, which is made up of two oxygen particles). When the ozone comes into contact with the particles making the bad odors, whether they be smoke, bacteria, etc., the ozone will literally change the chemical makeup of those particles through oxidization. Changing the odor-causing particles’ chemical makeup destroys the smell. After use, the ozone then turns into O2, which we’re eventually able to breathe.

Another method our technicians use to destroy stinky smells is thermal fogging.

Through this method, a deodorizer is put through a machine that turns it into a fine fog. That deodorizer fog can then get into every nook and cranny of the affected area, even the smallest, most porous spaces. The fog is even able to reach under floors, into ceilings and behind walls. The fog is then able to alter the particles causing the bad odors and destroy them.

Kitchen Fire Tips for Safety

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Stove Fire

Kitchen Fires: Four Risk Factors

While every home should have a smoke detector in the kitchen, there are several other tips for keeping your home and yourself safe when cooking. From rolling up your sleeves and tying back your hair to keeping flammable materials, like paper towel and dish towels, away from the stove, cooking safety is essential when it comes to fire prevention. However, many homeowners can be complacent about the following four risk factors.

1. Appliances  Fire Damage is devastating, but the fact that so many fires are caused by faulty or mishandled appliances is shocking. Appliances, if not maintained, are a leading cause of home fires. Be sure to service all your appliances properly. Additionally, unplug small countertop appliances as they draw electricity even when not in use, which can lead to overheating.

2. Too Much Oil or Grease One of the most overlooked cooking tips is to use less oil and grease. In cooking, a little goes a long way when it comes to these two substances. Using too much of either can lead to grease fires which, if left unattended, can get out of hand quickly. It is important to remember not to throw water on a grease fire because it will only splash the pan and cause the fire to spread, instead use salt or baking soda. 

3. Spills Another common cause of many kitchen fires is a dirty stove or oven. Always wipe up spills immediately and clean cooktops after use. Leftover grease, oil or food can ignite on the burner, causing a fire. This is another reason why it is essential to keep an eye on food as it cooks because these types of fires require a quick response, or they can spread quickly. Unfortunately, while the kitchen is the heart of the home, it is also the most likely place for fires to begin. The above tips offer several suggestions for helping you maintain a safe and fire-free home.

SERVPRO of Aurora - (630) 862-3930

Tips After a Fire

2/23/2019 (Permalink)

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 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 SERVPRO of Aurora (630) 862-3930.
• 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 ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Power to the People

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

December and January are peak months for electrical fires due to holiday decorations and the usage of space heaters, however; with the increase in electronics per household, such as computers, wide screen televisions, and video and gaming systems, circuit overloads can happen at any time.

Electrical circuits in your home or businesses are designed to take a limited amount of electricity. Overloads occur when you draw more electricity than a circuit can handle. Overloaded outlets and circuits carry too much electricity which generates heat in undetectable amounts. The heat causes wear and tear on the internal wiring system and can start a fire. All wiring systems have circuit breakers or fuses to disconnect power when circuits become overloaded, however; an improperly sized fuse or breaker can cancel this built in safety feature.

Signs of overloaded circuits are:

1-Buzzing from outlets or switches.

2-Outlet or switch covers that are warm to touch.

3-Burning odors from outlets or switches.

4-Scorched plugs or outlets.

5-Power tools, appliances, or electronics that seem to lack sufficient power.

Prevention is the best way to eliminate an electrical fire to your home or business. You can never be too careful when it comes to the safety of your family, pets or customers. If you feel you may have circuit problems or want to check your electrical system before a problem occurs, remember to call a reliable licensed electrician and if a fire should occur, know that SERVPRO of Aurora, Illinois is there to get your life back in order and make it “Like it never even happened.” Call 630-862-3930.

"Baby it's Cold Outside!"

12/13/2018 (Permalink)

Once again the cold weather is upon us and in an effort to stay cozy and warm, people turn to alternative heat sources such as fireplaces, wood burning stoves and portable heaters to provide that warmth. Heating is the second leading cause of home fire deaths making it important to review ways to reduce the risk of a heating-related fire.

Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.

Use heating equipment that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.

Keep flammable objects at least three feet away from heating equipment.

Plug space heaters directly into outlets. Do not use extension cords or power strips.

When using fuel-burning heaters, use only the type of fuel specified by the manufacturer.

Never use kitchen stove burners to provide heat, they were made for cooking only.

Install and maintain carbon monoxide and smoke alarms inside your home. Test alarms monthly.

Stay warm and be safe. Start the New Year out the right way and if needed, call SERVPRO of Aurora, Illinois at 630-862-3930.

Turkey Frying Safety Tips

11/13/2018 (Permalink)

If you plan to deep fry your holiday bird, be sure you know how to safely use the fryer, and take these precautions to protect yourself, your guests and your home.

• Fryers should always be used outdoors on a solid level surface a safe distance from buildings and flammable materials.
• Never use a fryer on wooden deck or enclosed space.
• Purchase a fryer with temperature controls and watch the oil temperature carefully.
• Make sure the bird is completely thawed before it is placed in the fryer.
• Do not overfill the fryer. 
• Choose a bird no heavier than 12 lbs.
• Never leave a fryer unattended.
• Never let children or pets near the fryer.
• Use well insulated pot holders or oven mitts and wear long sleeves and safety goggles to protect from splatter.
• Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher nearby.
• 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.

By following the above tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving. Everyone at SERVPRO of Aurora, Illinois would like to wish you and your family a "HAPPY THANKSGIVING".

Fire Prevention Week October 7-13, 2018

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

This year's theme for Fire Prevention Week is "Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware-fire can happen anywhere." 

"LOOK" for places fire could start. Take a good look around your home and identify potential fire hazards and take care of them.

"LISTEN" for the sound of your smoke alarms. You could have only minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm goes off. Go to your outside meeting place which should be a safe distance from your home and where everyone should meet.

"LEARN" two ways out of every room and make sure all doors and windows leading outside can be easily opened and are clutter free.

People need to be educated about these three basic but essential steps to reduce the likelihood of having a fire and how to escape safely in the event a fire should a occur.

For further information visit www.firepreventionweek.org and learn how to keep you and your family safe.

Unfortunately fires do occur. When fire and water damage take control of you life, we help you take it back. Call SERVPRO of Aurora, Illinois at 630-862-3930.

Recipe for Safety

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

Cooking Safety Tips:

• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you have to leave the room for even a second, turn your stove or cooking device off.
• When you are simmering, baking, or roasting, check the food regularly or use a timer to remind you.
• Keep cooking areas clean and clear of combustibles such as potholders, paper towels, food packaging, etc...
• Keep children away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of at least three feet around the stove.
• If an oven fire starts, turn off the oven and keep the door closed. If the fire does not go out, get out of the house and the fire department.

Please remember that education in prevention is the best way to keep you and your family safe. In the event there is a fire, call your local fire department and then call SERVPRO of Aurora, Illinois at 630-862-3930 to help you with all your fire restoration needs. 

Self Cleaning Oven Safety Tips

5/14/2018 (Permalink)

As one of the most hated household chores, oven cleaning ranks among the top; which is why so many people invest in self-cleaning ovens. There are some downsides and possible hazards to be aware of before using your self cleaning oven such as smoke, fumes, and even possible fires if the oven contains a lot of grease or food particles.

The self cleaning ovens use a process called Pyrolytic cleaning which burns off grease and food particles by reaching temperatures of up to 500 degrees. The food particles turn to ash and then can be wiped away.

Some important tips to follow before using your self cleaning oven are:

1. Make sure there isn't an over abundance of grease and food particles in your oven.
2. Make sure the oven door seal and other sealing mechanisms are working perfectly.
3. Make sure the kitchen is well ventilated while using the self cleaning oven.
4. Make sure to follow all instructions from the manufacturers.

Your first priority is to keep you, your family and your pets safe. Your second priority is too know that SERVPRO of Aurora, Illinois will be there for you to make everything "Like it never even happened" 630-862-3930.

First Responders to Fires

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

Local fire and police departments, as well as Emergency Medical technicians (EMT's), are often first on the scene of an emergency. In the United States, there are more than 29,700 fire departments with 1,160,450 total firefighters, according to the National Fire Protection Association's 2015  U.S. Fire Department Profile. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are almost 245,000 EMT's and paramedics in the United States. In the U.S. there are about 18,000 federal, state, country, and local law enforcement agencies, employing more than 750,000 full time sworn officers according to he Uniformed Crime Reporting Program collected by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

When fire affects your life, make SERVPRO of Aurora, Illinois 630-862-3930 your 2nd responder and we will make it "Like it never even happened."

When Fire Strikes call SERVPRO of Aurora, IL

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

This home suffered a fire after being struck by lightning. SERVPRO of Aurora did the mitigation and full rebuild on the home.

Mitigation requires quick action.  The faster the SERVPRO of Aurora professionals arrive on-site to perform fire, smoke, and soot cleanup and restoration, the better the results - including lower claims costs.  Within four hours of loss notification, SERVPRO of Aurora will be on-site to help ensure a fire damage is handled by utilizing the following services.

Structural cleaning

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning.

Contents cleaning

All of the restorable content in affected areas will be professionally cleaned.  This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery.

Deodoriztion 

SERVPRO of Aurora professionals provide specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage.

If your home or business is affected by fire or smoke damage SERVPRO of Aurora will make it "Like it never even happened."

Every Second Counts

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Every second counts during a fire.  Fire experts agree; people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it's too late to get out.  In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared and have an escape plan in place.  A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows only 26 percent of families have developed and practiced a home fire escape plan.  Once a plan is developed, it is critical everyone in the home understands the plan; the best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year.  Increase your chance of surviving a fire by ensuring you have working smoke detectors in place, building an escape plan, and then practicing the escape plan.

Fire!!

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Mitigation requires quick action.  The faster we arrive on site to perform fire, smoke, and soot cleanup and restoration, the better the results - including lower claim costs.  When we are called to a fire loss we ensure a fire damage is handled by utilizing the following services.

Structural Cleaning - After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need a thorough cleaning.  We will pretest to determine the extent of damage, then use specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces within the structure.

Contents Cleaning - All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized.  

Deodorization - We provide specialized services that rid your home of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage.

A Business Plan

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

An emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses; however, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business during an emergency. OSHA suggests the following steps when developing such a plan.

Organize an Emergency Preparedness review with your employees to review your company's emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan.

Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked and well lit.

Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.

Thanksgiving

11/12/2017 (Permalink)

November - when cooler temperatures arrive, and the leaves change, and family-oriented get-togethers, like Thanksgiving, begin the holiday season. While you are busy whipping up delicious dishes in the kitchen, it is also important to take time to remember safety.

Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and home-fire-related injuries in the United States. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports "Cooking equipment was involved in almost half (48%) of all reported home fires...and tied with heating equipment for the second cause of home fire deaths."

SERVPRO of Aurora wants you, your family, and your property to stay safe. If you do experience a fire or water damage during the holidays, or any time of the year, we can make it "Like it never even happened."

Five Dangers of Deep Frying a Turkey

11/12/2017 (Permalink)

A deep-fried turkey: delicious, but worth it? If you've seen any of the numerous videos of turkey fryer explosions and fires online, you may have asked yourself this question before. Running the risk of bodily injury or property damage is something to consider when menu plannning this holiday season.

* Turkey fryers can easily tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.

* An overfilled cooking pot will cause cooking oil to spill when the turkey is put in, and a partially frozen turkey will cause cooking oil to splatter when put in the pot.

* Even a small amount of cooking oil spilling on a hot burner can cause a large fire.

* Without thermostat controls, deep fryers can overheat oil to the point of starting a fire.

* The sides of the cooking pit, lid, and pot handles can get dangerously hot.