Space Heater Safety: Preventing Fire Hazards in Your Home in Downtown Chicago?

11/5/2024 (Permalink)

We clean and restore fire damage in Downtown Chicago.

Fires can break out at any time in Downtown Chicago, and when they occur, our Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki is Here to Help®. Space heaters are a convenient way to stay warm during colder months, but they can become a serious fire hazard if not used properly. Taking a few precautionary steps can help prevent residential fire damage and keep your home safe.

First, always place your space heater on a flat, stable surface and keep it at least three feet away from flammable materials, such as curtains, bedding, furniture, or papers. Never use a space heater near water or damp areas like bathrooms, as this increases the risk of electrical hazards.

Ensure your space heater has modern safety features, such as automatic shut-off if it tips over or overheats. Avoid using extension cords or power strips to plug in your space heater, which can overload the circuit and cause a fire. Instead, plug it directly into a wall outlet.

Finally, always leave a space heater in the right place and turn it off when leaving the room or going to sleep. Following these safety tips will help reduce the fire risk and keep your home warm and safe during the cold season.

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When your Downtown Chicago home or commercial business has fire damage, Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki will restore the damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 312-877-9937.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Halloween Fire Safety: Tips to Keep Your Festivities Safe in Downtown Chicago?

10/15/2024 (Permalink)

We are fire damage restoration leaders in Downtown Chicago.

Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki wants everyone to have a fun and fire-damage-free Halloween celebration. Halloween is a time for fun and creativity, but it also increases the risk of home fires due to decorations and candles. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), from 2017 to 2021, there was an average of 790 home structure fires per year that began with decorations. These fires resulted in civilian deaths, injuries, and millions of dollars in property damage. Nearly half of these fires occurred because decorations were too close to a heat source, and approximately one-third were started by candles.

The NFPA offers several essential fire safety tips to ensure a safe Halloween. Consider using glow sticks or battery-operated candles instead of real candles for jack-o’-lanterns and other decorations, which pose a significant fire risk. Avoid long, trailing fabrics that could easily catch fire when choosing costumes. Equip children with flashlights or glow sticks to enhance their visibility and keep them away from open flames, including candle-lit jack-o’-lanterns.

Keep all decorations away from open flames, light bulbs, and heaters, and ensure that exits are clear of obstacles. Finally, check that all smoke alarms in your home are working correctly to provide protection. By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and festive Halloween.

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When your home or commercial property in Downtown Chicago has fire, smoke, and soot damage, SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki is Here to Help.® Call us today at 312-877-9937.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Metal Accidentally Placed in Microwave Oven Starts Fire in Downtown Chicago Condo?

10/7/2024 (Permalink)

We are highly trained to restore fire damage in Downtown Chicago.

Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki is a trusted leader in fire damage restoration services. Even small, contained fires create soot and smoke damage that requires professional restoration services to return the damaged area to pre-fire condition.

Microwave ovens are convenient kitchen appliances but can pose a fire hazard if not used correctly. One common mistake that can lead to a dangerous situation is accidentally placing metal objects inside the microwave. When metal is exposed to microwave radiation due to its reflective properties, it can cause sparks. These sparks can quickly ignite nearby flammable materials, such as food packaging, paper, or grease splatters, leading to a fire.

Even small amounts of metal, like the gold trim on a plate or aluminum foil, can cause sparking. The situation is especially hazardous if the microwave runs for an extended period with metal inside, as the buildup of heat and sparks can easily lead to a full-blown fire. To prevent this risk, double-check that no metal objects are inside the microwave before turning it on. Additionally, follow the manufacturer's guidelines for safe microwave use to avoid accidents.

Call Us Today!

When your Downtown Chicago home or commercial property has fire damage, SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki is Here to Help.® Call us today at 312-877-9937.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Downtown Chicago Observes National Fire Awareness Month?

9/30/2024 (Permalink)

We are fire damage restoration leaders in Downtown Chicago!

Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki is always on call and ready to respond to fire damage emergencies day and night. Residential Fire Awareness Month, observed each October, is a national campaign dedicated to raising awareness about fire safety and prevention in homes. The month-long initiative is designed to educate the public about the dangers of residential fires and to promote practices that can help prevent them.

October is chosen for this observance because it coincides with Fire Prevention Week. This week commemorates the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, a devastating event that highlighted the need for fire safety education.

During Residential Fire Awareness Month, fire departments, safety organizations, and communities nationwide engage in various activities to educate the public. These activities include distributing fire safety information, hosting fire drills, offering free smoke alarm checks and installations, and providing tips on creating and practicing a fire escape plan.

Key topics covered during this month include the importance of having working smoke alarms, the dangers of unattended cooking (a leading cause of residential fires), the safe use of heating equipment, and the need for regular maintenance of electrical systems. The goal is to reduce the number of fire-related injuries, deaths, and property losses by encouraging people to take proactive steps in fire prevention and preparedness.

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When you have a fire damage emergency in your home or commercial business in Downtown Chicago, SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki is Here to Help.® Call us today at 312-877-9937.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Protecting Downtown Chicago: Tackling the Threat of Residential Arson?

9/17/2024 (Permalink)

We are fire damage restoration leaders in Downtown Chicago!

Arson, the intentional act of setting fire to property, is a severe crime with devastating consequences. Residential arson not only destroys homes but also endangers lives and communities. Motives for arson vary widely, from insurance fraud and revenge to vandalism and even attempts to cover up other crimes. Regardless of the reason, the impact on victims can be catastrophic, leading to loss of property, financial hardship, and emotional trauma.

Preventing arson requires a multifaceted approach. Homeowners should install robust security measures, such as motion-activated lighting, surveillance cameras, and secure locks, to deter potential arsonists. Neighborhood watch programs can also play a critical role in preventing arson by fostering community vigilance and cooperation with local law enforcement.

When you are a victim of an arson attack, it's crucial to prioritize safety and call emergency services immediately. Once the fire is extinguished, thorough documentation and reporting of the incident are necessary for insurance claims and legal proceedings.

Professional fire restoration services, like those provided by SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki, are essential for recovering from arson damage. We offer comprehensive cleanup, repair, and restoration services, helping homeowners rebuild and restore their lives.

Awareness and preparedness are vital to mitigating the risks of arson. Communities can protect themselves from this dangerous and malicious threat by taking proactive steps.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Downtown Chicago has fire damage, SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki is Here to Help.® Call us today at 312-877-9937.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Tips on How to Spot an Arsonist in Downtown Chicago?

8/13/2024 (Permalink)

Downtown Chicago relies on us to restore fire damage!

Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki is highly trained and certified to restore fire damage in homes and commercial businesses. According to the National Fire Protection Association, between 2016 and 2020, intentional fire setting averaged 29,400 house fires per year.

Arson can be catastrophic. Spotting an arsonist before an act occurs can be challenging, but some signs may suggest suspicious activity. Being aware of these can help in preventing potential disasters.

Arsonists often show a peculiar interest in fires, frequently discussing them or showing an unusual curiosity about fire safety procedures or firefighting efforts. They might also have a history of fire-related incidents or unexplained fires in their presence.

Watch for individuals who carry incendiary devices like matches or lighters without an apparent reason or who accumulate accelerants such as gasoline or kerosene. Suspicious behavior also includes frequent, unexplained visits to potential target sites, particularly at unusual times.

If you observe someone exhibiting these behaviors or if something feels off, report your observations to the local authorities. It's better to err on the side of caution to avert a deliberate and destructive fire potentially.

Call Us Today!

When your Downtown Chicago residence sustains fire damage, SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki is Here to Help®. Call us today at 312-877-9937.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Fire Extinguisher Prevents Cooking Fire From Spreading in Downtown Chicago Kitchen?

7/9/2024 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Downtown Chicago.

SERVPRO® of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki responds to fire damage emergencies yearly in Downtown Chicago. Fire extinguishers can be effective at putting out fires. Here are some fire extinguisher safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Use a portable fire extinguisher when the fire is confined to a small area, such as a wastebasket, and is not growing; everyone has exited the building; the fire department has been called or is being called; and the room is not filled with smoke.
• To operate a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS:

• Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism

• Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire

• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly

• Sweep the nozzle from side to side

• For the home, select a multi-purpose extinguisher that is large enough to put out a small fire but not so heavy that it is difficult to handle.
• Choose a fire extinguisher that carries the label of an independent testing laboratory.
• Before a fire breaks out, read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher and become familiar with its parts and operation.
• Install fire extinguishers close to an exit and keep your back to a clear exit when you use the device so you can easily escape if the fire cannot be controlled.

Call Us Today!

When you have fire damage, SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki is Here to Help.® Call us today at 312-877-9937.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Tips to Prevent Common Causes of Fires in Downtown Chicago?

6/4/2024 (Permalink)

We are trained and certified to restore fire damage in Downtown Chicago.

Our SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki is a trusted leader in fire damage restoration services. Safeguarding our homes against the threat of fires is important to us all. Here are some tips for preventing fire damage:

Cooking Safety: Never leave cooking unattended, especially when using stovetops or deep fryers. Keep flammable items like kitchen towels and curtains away from heat sources and use a timer to remind you of cooking times.

Heating System Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance for your heating systems, including furnaces, chimneys, and space heaters. Keep flammable materials at least three feet from heating equipment, and never leave heaters unattended.

Electrical Safety: Inspect electrical cords, outlets, and appliances regularly for signs of damage or wear. Avoid overloading circuits and use surge protectors for added safety. Consider upgrading older wiring systems to meet current safety standards.

Smoking Awareness: Do so outdoors and use designated ashtrays if you smoke. Never smoke in bed or when drowsy, and always ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished before disposal.

Candle Caution: Flameless LED candles are a safer alternative to traditional candles. Place real candles in sturdy holders on stable surfaces, away from flammable materials and drafts. Never leave candles burning unattended.

By implementing these fire prevention strategies and remaining vigilant, we can protect our families and properties from the devastating consequences of home fires.

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki is Here to Help ® when you have fire damage in your Downtown Chicago home or commercial business. Call us today at 312-877-9937.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Highly Trained Fire Damage Restoration Team in Downtown Chicago?

3/26/2024 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Downtown Chicago.

SERVPRO® of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki restores fire damage in Downtown Chicago every year. Here are some of the top causes of fire damage in the United States:

Cooking Fires: Unattended cooking is a leading cause of residential fires. Grease fires, overheating, and kitchen mishaps can quickly lead to flames and property damage.

Heating Equipment: Malfunctioning or improperly maintained heating systems, including furnaces, space heaters, and wood stoves, can cause fires, particularly during the colder months.

Arson: Deliberate acts of arson, where individuals intentionally set fires, can result in significant fire damage.

Electrical Fires: Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, damaged outlets, and electrical appliance malfunctions can spark electrical fires in homes and buildings.

Smoking: Careless smoking, such as improperly discarded cigarettes, cigars, or smoking materials, can ignite fires, particularly in residential settings.

Open Flames: The use of candles, fireworks, and open flames in an unsafe manner can lead to fires and property damage.

Electrical Equipment: Equipment like faulty extension cords, power strips, and defective appliances can contribute to electrical fires.

Lightning Strikes: Lightning can cause fires when it strikes buildings, particularly if flammable materials are in or around the structure.

Children Playing with Fire: Children playing with matches, lighters, or other fire sources without supervision can lead to fires and property damage.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business has fire damage, SERVPRO® of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki will restore the storm damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 312-877-9937.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Downtown Chicagoans Rely on Us to Restore Fire Damage?

2/13/2024 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in Chicago.

Downtown Chicagoans trust SERVPRO® of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki to restore fire damage. Restoring a property damaged by fire to its pre-damage condition involves a comprehensive process that includes several key steps:

Assessment: The first step is to assess the extent of the fire damage, including structural damage, smoke and soot damage, and water damage from firefighting efforts.

Safety: Ensure the property is safe to enter and work on. Address any immediate safety hazards and secure the structure.

Mitigation: Quickly address any remaining fire-related hazards, such as electrical issues or unstable structures, to prevent further damage.

Cleaning: Remove debris and soot from surfaces. Clean and sanitize the affected areas, including walls, ceilings, floors, and personal belongings.

Structural Repairs: Repair or replace damaged structural elements, including walls, roofs, and support beams, to ensure the property's stability.

Odor Removal: Eliminate smoke odors through professional cleaning and deodorizing methods, including ozone generators or thermal fogging.

Water Damage Restoration: Address water damage, including drying out the property and mitigating any mold growth that may have occurred.

Content Restoration: Clean and restore salvageable personal belongings and furniture.

Repainting and Refinishing: Apply fresh coats of paint, repair or replace flooring, and restore finishes to bring the property's aesthetics back to normal.

Documentation: Keep detailed records of the restoration process for insurance claims and legal purposes.

Call Us Today!

When your residence or commercial property has fire damage, SERVPRO® of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki will restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Please call us today at 312-877-9937.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Space Heater in Downtown Chicago Office Causes Fire Damage in Building?

12/19/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Chicago.

Downtown Chicago businesses trust SERVPRO® of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki to restore fire damage quickly and efficiently. Space heaters are commonly used in workplaces during the cold winter months to take the chill out of rooms. Here are some space heater safety tips from Travelers Insurance for employers without a formal space heater policy:

Employers without a formal policy prohibiting space heaters should provide guidelines for safe use.

• Use of space heaters should not be allowed unless supervisor or management approval is provided before use.
• Units that have been listed or labeled by a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories), CSA (Canadian Standards Association), or ETL (Intertek) should be the only space heaters permitted for use.
• Keep at least 36 inches of clearance around every space heater and only use them in areas free of flammable liquids and easily ignited or combustible materials.
• Proper placement of the space heater is important. Be sure it is not in a high-traffic area or where it may become a tripping hazard.
• If using an electric space heater, ensure electrical cords and plugs are not frayed or damaged. Always plug the heater directly into the wall outlet, and be sure the power cord is not crossing a walkway. Never use extension cords or power strips, as these could overheat and lead to a fire.
• Be sure space heaters are never left unattended. They should be turned off when the employee leaves the room or area of the heater and unplugged at the end of the day.

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business in Downtown Chicago has fire damage, SERVPRO® of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 312-877-9937.

SERVPRO® franchise is independently owned and operated.

Frozen Pipes Flood Downtown Chicago Building?

11/7/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to commercial water damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Cook County.

SERVPRO® of Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki is a trusted leader in commercial water damage restoration services. Our technicians have the training, equipment, and experience to restore water damage quickly and efficiently.

When frozen pipes burst and cause flooding, fast mitigation is required to minimize the chances of secondary damage. We use powerful, industrial-grade equipment that can remove thousands of gallons of water rapidly and dry the affected areas thoroughly, saving our customers time and money by avoiding more time-consuming repairs.

Moisture Detection, Water Extraction, Drying Equipment, and More

Additionally, we use specialized equipment such as infrared cameras, to detect and measure moisture levels. Sensitive moisture detectors, like hygrometers, are used to measure moisture saturation levels. Air scrubbers, thermal foggers, deodorization agents, and OSHA-approved sanitizing and anti-microbial treatments are used when needed to stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.

Why are we a top choice for commercial water damage restoration services?

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

Call Us Today!

Commercial businesses in Downtown Chicago trust Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki to restore water damage “Like it never even happened.” We typically arrive onsite within four hours or less. Call us today at 312-877-9937.

Downtown Chicago/Team Zubricki are independently owned and operated.