Lint Ignites Clothes Dryer Fire in Central Stickney Home?

10/8/2024 (Permalink)

We are fire damage restoration leaders in Cook County.

Did you know the leading cause of clothes dryer fires is the failure to clean them? Our local Bedford Park/Burbank teams restore fire damage in Central Stickney every year and want everyone to know about dryer maintenance. Here are some safety guidelines from the National Fire Protection Association:

Proper dryer maintenance is essential for preventing fire hazards and ensuring efficient operation. Start by having your dryer professionally installed and serviced regularly. Always use the dryer with a lint filter in place and make it a habit to clean the filter before or after each load.

Additionally, remove any lint that has accumulated around the drum. For optimal airflow, use rigid or flexible metal venting material, and ensure the air exhaust vent pipe is unrestricted with the outdoor vent flap opening properly.

If your clothes are taking longer to dry, it's time to clean the vent pipe or hire a professional service. Keep your dryer in good working order, especially if it's gas-powered—regularly inspect the gas line for leaks. Ensure the dryer is connected to the correct plug and outlet and avoid overloading it. Also, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and turn off the dryer when leaving the house or going to bed to reduce fire risks.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Central Stickney has fire damage, our local teams in Bedford Park/Burbank are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-430-3600.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

The Lifesaving Role of Smoke Alarms in Burbank, Illinois?

10/2/2024 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24/7 in Cook County.

Our local Bedford Park/Burbank teams are trained and certified to restore residential fire damage. October is Residential Fire Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to highlight the importance of smoke alarms in your home. Smoke alarms are your first line of defense in a fire, giving you and your family the crucial time to escape safely. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), having working smoke alarms in your home can cut the risk of dying in a house fire by half.

Ensure you have smoke alarms installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and every level of your home, including the basement. Testing your smoke alarms monthly is essential to ensure they’re functioning properly.

Replace the batteries at least once a year or sooner if the alarm starts chirping, indicating low battery power. Additionally, replace your smoke alarms every ten years to ensure they are updated with the latest technology.

Take time this month to educate your family about the importance of smoke alarms. Make sure everyone knows the sound they make and what to do when they hear it. By prioritizing smoke alarm maintenance, you’re taking a significant step in protecting your home and loved ones.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Burbank has a fire damage emergency, our local teams in Bedford Park/Burbank are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-430-3600.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Outdoor Lighting Safety Tips for Bridgeview Residents?

9/24/2024 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24/7 in Cook County.

Our local Bedford Park/Burbank teams are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Bridgeview. Outdoor string lights are a popular choice for adding ambiance to patios, gardens, and festive occasions. However, while they can create a beautiful atmosphere, they also pose a hidden fire hazard if not used correctly.

One of the primary risks comes from using lights that are not rated for outdoor use. Indoor string lights lack the durability to withstand the elements. When exposed to rain, snow, or even high humidity, they can short circuit, leading to sparks and potentially igniting nearby materials.

Another common cause of fire is overloading electrical circuits by connecting too many strings. This can cause the wires to overheat, especially if the lights are left on for extended periods. Additionally, damaged or frayed wires, often caused by wear and tear or poor storage, can expose live wires, increasing the fire risk.

To minimize the danger, always use string lights designed for outdoor use, inspect them for damage before each season, and avoid overloading circuits. Ensuring your outdoor lighting setup is safe will help you enjoy your space without worrying about fire damage lurking in the background.

Call Us Today!

When your Bridgeview home or commercial business sustains fire damage, our local Bedford Park/Burbank teams are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-430-3600.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Protecting Your Home from Summer Storm Damage in Justice, Illinois?

9/17/2024 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24/7 in Cook County.

Our local Bedford Park/Burbank teams are storm damage restoration leaders in Justice, where summer storms can be fierce and unpredictable, often causing significant property damage. These storms frequently bring heavy rain, strong winds, lightning, and even hail, all of which can threaten the integrity of your home.

Heavy rainfall can lead to flash flooding, overwhelming drainage systems, and water seeping into basements and lower levels of homes. If your home’s foundation isn’t adequately waterproofed, this can result in extensive water damage that may lead to costly repairs.

Strong winds during summer storms are another common threat. These winds can rip off shingles, damage siding, and even uproot trees, which could fall on your home, causing structural damage. It’s crucial to ensure that any loose objects in your yard, like patio furniture or lawn decorations, are secured before a storm hits.

Lightning is another danger. It can spark fires or cause power surges that may damage electrical systems and appliances. Installing surge protectors and grounding your home’s electrical system can mitigate this risk.

Taking proactive steps, such as regular roof inspections and securing your yard, can help protect your home from the damaging effects of summer storms in Justice.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business sustains storm damage, our local Bedford Park/Burbank teams are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-430-3600.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Basic Microwave Safety Tips Help Prevent Fire Damage in Bedford Park?

9/10/2024 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24/7 in Cook County.

Our local teams in Bedford Park/Burbank want everyone to be safe and fire-damage-free in the kitchen. In today's fast-paced world, families often turn to the microwave oven for its quick and easy way to heat meals, warm beverages, or defrost food. By keeping a few basic safety practices in mind, you can avoid painful burns and reduce the risk of potential fires. Here are some microwave oven safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

SAFETY TIPS

• PURCHASE a microwave oven listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Make sure to complete and return the product registration card. This way, the manufacturer can contact you if the product is recalled.
• PLUG the microwave oven directly into the wall outlet — never use an extension cord.
• Ensure the microwave oven is at a safe height and 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 microwave ovens heat unevenly, they can create hot pockets, leading to burns. Instead, warm a bottle in a bowl of warm, not hot or boiling water, or by running it under the tap.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Bedford Park has fire damage, our local Bedford Park/Burbank teams are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-430-3600.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Sump Pump Failure Causes Water Damage in Summit Business?

9/3/2024 (Permalink)

We restore commercial water damage 24/7 in Cook County.

Our local Bedford Park/Burbank teams are trusted leaders in commercial water damage restoration services in Summit. A malfunctioning sump pump in a commercial business can lead to significant water damage, especially during periods of heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt.

Essential for managing water accumulation in basements or low-lying areas, a sump pump failure can quickly turn into a costly disaster, affecting property, inventory, and operations.

The common causes of sump pump failures include power outages, improper installation, lack of maintenance, or an overwhelmed system during extreme weather conditions.

When a sump pump fails, water can accumulate and seep into the foundation, damaging the structural integrity of the building, ruining equipment, and fostering mold growth.

To mitigate these risks, regular sump pump maintenance is crucial. This should include checking the pump's operation, ensuring the float switch is not hindered, and cleaning the sump pit of debris that might obstruct the pump's intake.

Additionally, installing a battery backup system can keep the pump operational during power outages, providing an essential layer of protection.

Business owners should also consider routine inspections and professional testing of their sump pump systems to ensure they are ready to handle high water levels. By taking these proactive steps, businesses can safeguard their premises against the disruptions caused by water damage.

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Summit has a water damage emergency, our local Bedford Park/Burbank teams are Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-430-3600.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Leaking Water Supply Line Wreaks Havoc in Burbank Home?

8/27/2024 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24/7 in Cook County.

Our local teams in Bedford Park/Burbank are leaders in water damage restoration services. A leaking refrigerator water supply line can lead to significant water damage in a kitchen, often going unnoticed until it's too late. The supply line, responsible for delivering water to the refrigerator's ice maker and water dispenser, can develop small cracks or loose connections over time. When this happens, water slowly seeps out, often behind the refrigerator, where it's difficult to detect.

As the leak continues, water accumulates, gradually spreading underneath the refrigerator and onto the kitchen floor. Depending on the severity of the leak and the type of flooring, the water can penetrate deep into the subflooring, leading to swelling, warping, and rot. The moisture can also spread to surrounding cabinetry, causing the wood to swell and finishes to deteriorate.

If the leak is not addressed promptly, mold and mildew can grow in these damp, dark areas and rapidly spread to other areas of the structure.

Mold damage can be prevented by regularly inspecting the refrigerator water supply line for signs of wear or leaks and acting quickly if any issues are found. Early detection and maintenance are key in preventing major water damage, saving homeowners from the headache and expense of extensive repairs.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Burbank has water damage, our local team in Bedford Park/Burbank is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-430-3600.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Dealing with Sewer Line Breaks in Bedford Park: Why Professional Cleanup is Essential for Commercial Buildings?

8/20/2024 (Permalink)

We are water damage restoration leaders in Cook County.

Our local team in Bedford Park/Burbank is a leader in water damage restoration services. A sewer line break in a commercial building can cause severe water damage and health risks. Raw sewage can flood the premises, contaminating the structure and air. This water damage is hazardous due to harmful bacteria and infectious diseases in sewage.

The contamination from a sewer line break requires immediate professional intervention. Cleaning visible water is not enough; the area must be disinfected and sanitized to prevent pathogen spread.

Our highly trained professionals have the equipment and experience to handle these situations. We utilize powerful, industrial-grade equipment to remove contaminated water, dry affected areas, and then we treat surfaces with specialized disinfectants to kill the bacteria completely. This also prevents long-term issues like mold growth.

Our teams can manage the entire restoration from the initial assessment to the final phases of rebuilding required to complete the job. Prompt and effective response not only addresses the immediate damage but also safeguards the health of occupants and the integrity of the building. For any commercial property facing sewer line issues, prioritizing professional cleanup and restoration is essential for maintaining a safe and healthy environment for customers and employees.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Bedford Park has a water damage emergency, our local team in Bedford Park/Burbank is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-430-3600.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Property mgrs: need help cleaning vacant apartments?

6/10/2022 (Permalink)

Need to get this unit cleaned and ready for rental? Give us a call today!

Attention all property managers:  A vacant apartment does not make you any money.  And an unit that is dire need of cleaning and deodorizing will never be rented.  What will you do?

Well, help is on the way!  SERVPRO Bedford Park/Burbank has already cleaned and deodorized units, so that they can be rented out.  And, we will work within your budget and time frame to do the best job we can.

Keep this number handy, because you just might need it in case of emergencies as well:  708-430-3600.

So, whether the unit in question had water damages, or the walls are stained with soot and smoke, or you suspect that mold may be present, we are the team for you!  We can pack out and store any items that need to be saved (furniture, household goods, storage boxes, etc), and clean and deodorize not only those contents, but the structure as well.

To get the process started, simply call the number 708-430-3600, and we will come out and inspect your areas of concern.  Then, we'll give you a verbal estimate and the processes of how we will get the job completed.  If that's agreeable to you, then a written estimate is prepared, and the job is scheduled.  Again, we will work within your schedule!

There's more to life than sunshine and rainbows

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Even when the sun is shining, SERVPRO is preparing for the next storm!

Everyone enjoys it when the sun shines and the temperatures are pleasant.  Unfortunately, there are times when the weather turns more destructive.

Especially in the spring and summer, storms can appear literally out of nowhere and create havoc in a very short period of time.  Winds, lightning, and heavy rains can disrupt not only picnics, but possibly your plans for the next couple of days.

The last few years have shown us that rain rates are becoming so much that it overwhelms our sewage systems.  Sump pumps that work properly are simply being asked to do too much in such a short period of time, causing flooding in the lower levels of our homes.

If sewage has invaded your home, there's no need to panic!  Simply call the water damage experts at SERVPRO Bedford Park/Burbank at 708-430-3600.  We can come out to inspect, find what areas have been affected by the intrusive waters.  Then we can extract the standing water, set up drying equipment (to dry both contents and structure), and spray an antimicrobial to keep mold at bay.

Before that storm rolls through, plug our number into your mobile device right now:  708-430-3600.  We have live operators to answer your call 24/7/365, so the work can start ASAP.