Fire Damage - Call SERVPRO

2/22/2024 (Permalink)

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

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

What To Do After A Fire

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

What NOT To Do After A Fire

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

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business has fire, smoke, and soot damage, SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg is available to help.Call us today at 847-386-6817.

Safety Tips for Patio Heaters

7/26/2023 (Permalink)

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

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

Propane Patio Heaters

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

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

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

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

Call Us Today!

When your Barrington home or commercial business needs fire damage restoration services, SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 847-386-6817.

Highly Trained Fire Restoration Technicians

9/8/2022 (Permalink)

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

After the fire has been extinguished, we are often the next team to arrive on the scene. SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg has a team of highly trained fire restoration technicians ready to help.

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

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

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

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

Call Us!

When your home or business needs fire cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg can help. Our fire restoration technicians are on-call 24-hours a day to mitigate and remediate fire damage. Call us today at 847-386-6817. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Generator Safety Tips

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

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

SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg has a team of highly trained technicians available 24-hours a day to handle any fire damage emergency.  Call us at 847-386-6817.

Tips to Stay Safe around the Pool

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

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

If you experience fire damage, SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg has a team of highly trained technicians that can respond 24-hours a day, call us at 847-526-0090.

Fireplace Safety Tips

2/28/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

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

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

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

Fireplace Safety

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

SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg has a team of highly trained technicians ready to respond to a fire damage emergency 24-hours a day.  Call us at 847-526-0090.

Safety Tips for your Microwave

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg provides 24-hour service for any fire damage emergency.

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

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

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

If you experience fire or smoke damage, SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg has a team of highly trained technicians available 24-hours a day to assist you.  Please call us at 847-526-0090.

Safety Tips for Cooking with Oil

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

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

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

Safety considerations for cooking with oil

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

SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg has a team of fire restoration specialists on call 24-hours a day to help you.  Call us today at 847-526-0090. 

Stay Safe While Traveling - Hotel & Motel Safety Tips

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

Keep these safety tips in mind when traveling.

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

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

If you have any questions about fire damage restoration services, please call SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg at 847-526-0090.

Winter Holiday Safety Tips

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg provides 24-hour service for any fire damage emergency.

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

Holiday decorating

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

If you experience fire or smoke damage, SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg has a team of highly trained technicians available 24-hours a day to assist you. Please call us at 847-526-0090.

Clothes Dryer Safety Tips

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg can help if you experience fire damage.

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

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

If you experience fire or smoke damage, SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg has a team of highly trained technicians available 24-hours a day to assist you. Please call us at 847-526-0090.

Keep Safe & Warm this Winter

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg provides 24-hour service for any fire damage emergency.

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

Heater Checklist:

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

SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg responds to fire damage emergencies during the winter months and we know the damage even a small fire can cause to a home. Our fire restoration technicians have the advanced training, equipment, and experience to restore damage caused by a small or large fire. Call us at 847-526-0090.

Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration in Barrington

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

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

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

SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg

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

Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today 847-526-0090 

Fire Safety Tips

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

It is important to teach children about fire safety.

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

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

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg has a team of highly trained technicians on call and ready to respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day. Call us today at (847) 526-0090. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Special Smoke Alarms for Hearing Impaired People

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

Special smoke alarms are available for hearing impaired people.

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

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

SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg can respond to your fire damage emergency 24 hours a day.  Call us at (847) 526-4290. 

Electrical Safety Reminders

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg is always ready to help with any size fire damage.

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

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

SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg has highly trained technicians that are available 24 hours a day.  Call us at 847-526-0090.  We’ll clean and restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

High-rise Fire Escape Planning

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg are fire damage restoration specialists.

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

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

If your high-rise apartment or commercial business experiences a fire damage emergency, SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg can help.  Our technicians are on call 24 hours a day and have the advanced training and equipment to mitigate any fire damage.  Call us today at 847-526-0090.

Stay Warm and Safe this Winter

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg hope you stay warm and safe this winter.

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

Stay warm and safe this winter!

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

If you do experience any damage from a fire or smoke emergency, please call SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg at 847-526-0090.

Christmas Tree Safety Tips

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Picking the tree:

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

Placing the tree:

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

Lighting the tree:

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

The team from SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg hope that you have a happy, healthy and safe holiday season.  If you do have any questions about fire, soot or smoke damage please call us at (847) 526-0090.

Fire Restoration in Barrington

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

If you are in need of fire cleanup services. SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg can help!

After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts.  SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg have the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same.  The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us.  Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage.  This step is crucial to developing a plan of action. 

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs.  To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water.  We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. 

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire.  We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition.  We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition.  Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Have questions about Fire, Smoke or Soot Damage?  Call SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg at (847) 526-0090.

Tips for Candle Safety in your Home

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Please use caution when using candles in your home.

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

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

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

If you have any additional questions about fire or smoke damage, please feel free to contact SERVPRO of Barrington / North Schaumburg at (847) 526-0090.

Cooking Fire in Hoffman Estates?

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

We are fire damage restoration specialists in Schaumburg.

Cooking Fire Facts

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), home cooking fires account for 172,900 home structure fires per year, and two-thirds of these home cooking fires are started through the ignition of food or other cooking items. SERVPRO® of Barrington/North Schaumburg has witnessed firsthand the devastation and damage home cooking fires cause in Hoffman Estates, and we have extensive experience restoring property damage caused by these fires. Below are some safety tips from the NFPA to follow in the event you have a cooking fire:

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Call Us!

The Hoffman Estates community relies on  SERVPRO® of Barrington/North Schaumburg to respond to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day. Our highly trained fire restoration technicians will clean up and restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 847-526-0090.

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg is Independently Owned and Operated.

Pets Playing With Fire in North Barrington?

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

When your pet causes fire damage in Schaumburg, call us!

The Chicago Fire

Although it has never been proven, many people attribute the starting of the Chicago Fire of 1871 to Mrs. O’Leary’s family cow knocking over a lighted lantern. We pet owners love our furry friends, but did you know that these little rascals are responsible for causing 750 home fires each year in the United States? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), pets and wild animals are responsible for starting fires by exposure to:

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

SERVPRO® of Barrington/North Schaumburg offers some safety tips to North Barrington from the NFPA to help prevent your pets from starting a fire at home:

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

Call Us Today!

North Barrington residents count on  SERVPRO® of Barrington/North Schaumburg to respond to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day. Our highly trained fire restoration technicians will restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 847-526-0090.

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg is Independently Owned and Operated.

Playing With Fire in Hoffman Estates?

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Playing With Fire is No Joke in Barrington.

Children Playing With Fire?

Did you know that over 49,000 fires were started by children playing with fire in a five-year period, causing $235 million in property damage losses? SERVPRO^® of Barrington/North Schaumburg has witnessed first-hand the damage that fires cause to homes and commercial structures in Hoffman Estates and we have years of experience in fire damage mitigation and restoration. Here are some staggering statistics from the National Fire Protection Association on fires started by children playing with fire:

• 67 percent of structure fires involving play occurred in residential properties
• Most child play fires happen in July, between 2 pm and 8 pm
• 52 percent of home playing structure fires have a lighter as the cause of the heat source
• 43 percent of these fires were caused by children under the age of six
• 83 percent of the home fires were caused by males
• The bedroom was the most common area of origin involving play
• Mattress of bedding was the most common item first ignited in fires caused by playing

Call Us Today

If  you experience a home fire damage emergency of any kind, SERVPRO^® of Barrington/North Schaumburg wants to help. We have a team of highly trained and certified fire restoration specialists on call 24 hours a day. Call us today at 847-526-0090. We’ll clean and restore your fire damage in Hoffman Estates “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Barrington/North Schaumburg is Independently Owned and Operated.

Soot happens in Hoffman Estates. SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg cleans it up.

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg gets the soot out of Hoffman Estates

It wouldn’t take a repeat of the Great Chicago Fire to cause a disaster to residential or commercial property in Hoffman Estates.  SERVPRO^® of Barrington/North Schaumburg restores homes and businesses after fire disasters, whether they are large or small. We are available 24 hours/day, 7 days/week for 52 weeks/year. Call (847) 526-0090. SERPVO of Barrington/North Schaumburg is Faster to any size disaster.

Lingering After-Effects: Soot and Smoke

Even when fires are easy for individuals to extinguish, they often leave soot on the ceilings and walls, or smoke that stays in upholstery or textiles. Smoke and soot continue to cause damage until they are removed. Soot corrodes metal, stone, brick, and other materials. Incorrect cleaning can set smoke or soot odors into material, making a later cleaning much more expensive and difficult than an earlier, correct cleaning.

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg has the equipment and the training to remove soot and smoke and their odors. Our technicians know where to look for hidden deposits of soot so the particles will not corrode the building structure nor the books, furniture, art, or other fixtures and belongings. SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg will clean and restore Hoffman Estates property "Like it never even happened."^®

We’re also available to answer any questions at (847)-526-0090, or send requests for information through our website.

When fire and water take control of your life, we help you take it back.

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg is independently owned and operated.

Link:

https://www.SERVPRObarringtonnorthschaumburg.com/

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg works to rescue property in Hoffman Estates

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Fire in Hoffman Estates

When fire damages a home or business in Hoffman Estates, call SERVPRO^® of Barrington/North Schaumburg as soon as everyone is safe. We are Faster to any size disaster and speed matters for preventing extra damage. No fire is too small to be important, or too large for our technicians.

Smoke and soot continue to damage property after the fire is extinguished. SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg stops the damage so it can restore the property and its contents.  As soon as the technicians arrive, they assess the property to determine the best way to restore it. They do both structural and content cleaning.

Structural cleaning is for the building itself, including walls, floors, and ceilings. SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg removes smoke and soot damage. If there is water, the technicians remove it. We have equipment that removes odors rather than merely covering them up.

Home and business owners in Hoffman Estates don’t have empty buildings, so the technicians assess how best to clean and deodorize these as well. SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg aims to restore rather than replace. It is often possible to restore electronics, clothing, furniture, and artwork – sometimes even documents.

We are Here to Help^®

SERVPRO Barrington/North Schaumburg is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/

What is a Puffback?

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

The aftermath of a puffback isn’t pretty.

Furnace Puffbacks

A furnace puffback is when an explosion happens inside the burner chamber of a furnace. A puffback can cause quite a lot of damage to the heating system, let alone your family’s home. When a puffback does occur, it spits back a fine layer of soot all throughout your home that is very tedious to clean and should be left to the professionals at SERVPRO of Barrington/ North Schaumburg.

What causes a puffback? It can be caused by a multitude of things, but most often it is caused by a lack of maintenance or cleaning of the furnace. Meaning, maintaining a dust-free oil heating system is imperative. Make sure you inspect your furnace annually and be on the lookout for strange noises or oil leaks and soot backup. If these things are occurring, make sure you have your system checked out by an HVAC technician.

If your furnace does produce a puffback and your Inverness area home is left in a sheet of soot- SERVPRO of Barrington/ North Schaumburg has the equipment, experience, and knowledge to return your home back to its pre-puffback condition. Remember, we are here to help 24/7/365 to make fire/smoke/soot damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Barrington/N. Schaumburg is Independently Owned and Operated.

Possible Causes of House Fires Around the Holidays

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Keep Your Holidays Full of Cheer by Staying Safe

When we investigate the causes of house fires during the holidays, most people think of leaving the stove on after cooking, leaving candles lit at night, etc. However, when we delve deeper into the possibilities, that’s where we start to think about causes that didn’t initially come to mind.

Things such as the logs and embers from a fireplace escaping and spreading after not being properly extinguished. Also, because of the low temperature outside, we are forced into using electric gas heaters which can easily fail, combust or overheat. Ducted heating is another big issue that some people run into. If a filter or airway isn’t properly cleaned or emptied, the dust particles and buildup can ignite causing the ducts in the roof to engulf into flame. Electric blankets are also a common cause, a poorly manufactured one can overheat very easily, setting alight bed covers, clothing and even furniture. 

Another cause one might not think of is cell phones and electronics, especially those on or near a bed whilst charging. The heat generated from the charging battery can expose a fire risk as they dissipate heat while charging- making them a possible cause of a house fire. This can also be a year-round cause, but people are more likely to be in bed, under warm covers using their phones throughout the winter. The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year, but remember to not let that distract you from thinking of fire prevention.

SERVPRO of Barrington/N. Schaumburg is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Prevention in Hoffman Estates

11/7/2019 (Permalink)

Avoid fire damage in Hoffman Estates.

Hoffman Estates can practice fire prevention by learning home and business safety.

The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) warns that a small flame can turn into a major fire within 30 seconds. Flames and smoke can fill your home or business within mere minutes. While SERVPRO® of Barrington/North Schaumburg can help you recover from fire damage, we hope you never need this help.

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg wants to prevent fire damage by preventing fires.

Preventing Fire and Smoke Damage in Hoffman Estates:

• Keep anything that can catch fire at least 3 feet away from heat sources such as candles stovetops, fireplaces, or heaters
• Items that can catch fire include food, paper, cloth, & wood
• Keep kids at least 3 feet away from all heat sources
• Never use the oven as a space heater
• Turn off portable heaters & put out flames when leaving the room or sleeping
• If you use a fireplace, have the chimney inspected & cleaned once a year
• Let fireplace ashes cool before removing them to a metal container  
• Test smoke alarms once a month
• Pay attention to the cooking

SERVPRO of Barrington/ North Schaumburg encourages everyone to keep at least 1 fire extinguisher at home and at a business.

Remember, Hoffman Estates: The USFA noted that fire moves quickly. If you cannot contain a fire immediately, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 when you are outside the home or office.

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/

Stats on Businesses Reopening After a Disaster in Deer Park

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

Knowing some common causes of commercial fires can help you avoid disaster.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) over 40% of businesses do not reopen after a disaster such as a storm, fire, or water damage, or other disruption. Of those that do reopen, it is estimated that only 29% of those remain open after two years.

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg wants you to be aware of the causes of fire damage and fire injuries so that you can help prevent them.

Top Causes of Commercial Fires in the Deer Park area are:

• Equipment: Almost 38% of business fires start from faulty equipment or from mis-used equipment. Some materials can catch fire or explode when exposed to heat
• Carelessness: Remember to cover light bulbs, turn off equipment at the end of the day, and to replace frayed cords
• Cooking is a main cause of fire(s): Be aware of distractions while cooking. It only takes a moment of being away from your cooking source for a fire to break out.

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg wants you to remember that the best way to fight fire damage or smoke damage in Deer Park is prevention.

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.fema.gov/medialibrary/assets/documents/89510

https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/firesafety/

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/statistics/nonres_bldg_fire_estimates.pdf

The Best Fire Damage Control is Prevention in Barrington

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

Tips to prevent fires from breaking out in your Barrington home.

SERVPRO® of Barrington/North Schaumburg knows that the best fire control is fire prevention in North Barrington. The U.S. Fire Administration reports that a small flame can turn into a major fire in just 30 seconds. Flames and smoke can fill the house in just a few minutes. SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg will help you recover from fire damage; however, we hope you never need that kind of help.

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg shares these Tips for Fire Prevention: Overview

• Items that can catch fire include dish towels, oven mitts, paper, curtains, wooden spoons, decorations
• Heat sources include light bulbs, fireplaces, stove tops, furnaces, candles, or electric heaters.
• Keep items that can catch fire at least 3 feet away from heat sources
• Keep kids at least 3 feet away from heat sources
• Turn off heat sources when you leave the home or go to bed
• Never use the oven as a heater
• Have the fireplace chimney inspected & cleaned once a year

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg suggests you keep one or more fire extinguishers available and remember that fire is fast. If there is a fire in North Barrington, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 911 from outside the home.

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/

Tips to Prevent Kitchen Fire in Hoffman Estates

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage and smoke damage can happen at any time. Please use caution in the kitchen.

Many people are not aware that cooking equipment is a leading cause of fire damage and fire injuries in homes across America. In fact, SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg  wants you to understands that some fires in Hoffman Estates could be avoided by practicing fire safety in the kitchen.

To help prevent fire damage, SERVPRO of  Barrington/North Schaumburg shares these tips.

Be aware:

• Many kitchen items can catch fire, including: dish towels, oven mitts, recipes, wooden tools, and loose clothing
• Never operate the stove or oven when you are tired or have been drinking alcohol
• If you are frying, broiling, grilling, or boiling food, stay in the kitchen. If you leave, even for a short time, turn off the heat
• Keep flammable items at least three feet from the stove top
• Do not allow children within two to four feet of the stove or oven
• If you must leave the house while cooking of any kind, turn off the heat sources

Remember that fire is fast. If you cannot contain a fire immediately, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 from outside your Hoffman Estates home.

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg reminds you that fire prevention is the best strategy against fire damage. If you would like to learn about more ways to prevent fires in your home, please visit https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/ for more information.

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg is independently owned and operated. 

Barrington, Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates - When Do You Need Fire Restoration

1/19/2017 (Permalink)

Fire and Smoke Damage Treatment

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg can help out even in the direst of circumstances and we should be contacted immediately after the flames die down. The acidic ash residue left behind by the disaster will make a bad situation even worse if it is not removed within a few days, and the only way to do so is with a thorough cleaning. This is not an undertaking that home or business owners are equipped to handle on their own, and professionals have access to special equipment and cleaning products to make the job much easier,

SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg is equipped to respond quickly to such a disaster and have manpower to approach a full-scale cleanup. During cleanup the technicians will treat walls, ceilings and anything else that has been affected by ash. If smoke odors are present, and they usually are, they will also require removal to make it possible for people to inhabit the building once again. Smoke odors though are extremely hard to remove and can't be done with standard equipment. SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg has thermal foggers and other sophisticated odor removal equipment on hand to counter noxious smoke odors. They can reach into all parts of the home including inside floors and walls.

Please choose SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg to handle your clean so no further damage is done to the building. We can be contacted at (847) 526-0090 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Schaumburg, Barrington and Hoffman Estates Fire Damage Repair Should Be Done By Professionals

1/19/2017 (Permalink)

Ash, Soot and Smoke Damage

With responsive and precise fire damage repair even the worst disasters can be put in the past. Roaring flames have long been one of man's greatest enemies and whole it is easier to handle these days it still can cause havoc if it gets out of control. Not only can the flames cause enormous damage the ash, soot and smoke residue that remains will make the home noxious to live in. They can create irritating odors, discolor walls and ceilings and cause breathing issues if there is a high concentration left behind.

Professional fire damage repair will remove the ash and smoke left behind. This needs to be done quickly because ash is acidic and will cause materials to deteriorate if allowed to sit for long. SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg works hard to provide a though cleanup. This includes treatment of every surface that is affected by ash and soot. This includes wiping down walls, ceilings, furniture and countertops. Ash and smoke will almost always be present in the vents and ducts as well as they are quickly taken up by the HVAC system. SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg will access the home's ducts to clean them out as well as preventing either from entering the home once again.

Upon eliminating all of the ash, soot and smoke, the home will quickly be free of any lingering odor.

Please contact SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg at (847) 526-0090, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

It is Imperative that IICRC Approved Fire Restoration be Implemented As Soon As Possible

9/30/2016 (Permalink)

Servpro of Barrington/North Schaumburg has staff on call to respond to a fire loss quickly. Our goal is to make it like, "It never even happened"

It is imperative that IICRC approved fire restoration procedures should be implemented as soon as possible after a home or business fire is out. SERVPRO of Barrington follows IICRC and SERVPRO approved procedures when cleaning up after a fire. The longer the delay in contacting us,the more opportunity there is for damage from water and smoke to intensify. It is surprising just how well restoration works in light of how destructive a fire can be. Depending on the damage, a home can often be restored to its pre-loss state. SERVPRO of Barrington/North Schaumburg has a difficult task to perform but we are well equipped to return a home or business to its original condition.

The fire restoration process involves the repair of any structure damaged by smoke, fire or water. Carpets undergo a process to remove smoke odor. Sub floor materials undergo inspection for damage and may need to be replaced. Upholstery and curtains are subjected to a similar process. Furnishings are taken to an off site location and restored to pre-loss condition and stored until return is warranted. Through the cooperation of  the insurance company, SERVPRO and the insured the home or business can be restored and made safe once again.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/15/2016 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today –(847) 526-0090