Dry Conditions and Fire Hazards: Staying Safe and Prepared

6/19/2024 (Permalink)

As we enter the warmer months, dry conditions become a significant concern, increasing the risk of fires in both urban and rural areas. Dry weather, combined with factors like low humidity and occasional gusty winds, creates an environment ripe for fire hazards. As a responsible fire and water restoration company, we want to emphasize the importance of awareness and preparedness to mitigate these risks effectively.

Understanding the Risks

Dry conditions significantly elevate the potential for fires to start and spread rapidly. Dry vegetation, such as grass, shrubs, and trees, becomes highly flammable under these circumstances. Additionally, dry weather can dry out building materials and debris, making them more susceptible to ignition.

Common Causes of Fires in Dry Conditions

1. Human Activities: Activities such as outdoor grilling, campfires, and burning debris can easily spark fires when conditions are dry. Improperly extinguished cigarettes or fireworks can also pose significant risks.
2. Electrical Issues: Faulty electrical wiring, overloaded circuits, or malfunctioning appliances can generate heat and potentially ignite nearby materials, particularly in dry environments.
3. Natural Causes: Lightning strikes, although less common, can ignite fires in dry areas with combustible vegetation.

Tips for Preventing Fires in Dry Conditions

1. Observe Fire Restrictions: Pay attention to local fire advisories and restrictions. Avoid outdoor burning and activities that involve open flames during dry and windy conditions.
2. Proper Disposal of Debris: Dispose of yard waste and other debris properly. Avoid burning debris during dry periods; instead, consider composting or using community waste disposal services.
3. Maintain Equipment: Regularly inspect and maintain machinery and equipment that may generate sparks or heat, such as lawn mowers, chainsaws, and farm equipment.
4. Fire-Safe Landscaping: Create defensible space around your property by maintaining a clear zone of at least 30 feet, free from flammable vegetation and debris.
5. Firebreaks and Fireguards: In rural areas, establish firebreaks and fireguards to help prevent fires from spreading if they do occur.

What to Do in Case of a Fire

1. Call Emergency Services: If you spot a fire, call 911 immediately. Provide accurate information about the location and size of the fire to ensure a prompt response.
2. Evacuate Safely: If the fire threatens your safety or property, evacuate immediately. Alert others in the vicinity and follow established evacuation routes.
3. Stay Informed: Monitor local news and weather updates for information on fire conditions and evacuation orders in your area.

How We Can Help

At SERVPRO of Gurnee, we understand the devastating impact that fires can have on homes, businesses, and communities. As experts in fire and water restoration, we're committed to helping you recover swiftly and effectively after a fire incident. Our team of certified professionals is equipped with advanced techniques and technology to restore your property to its pre-fire condition.

If you've experienced a fire or want to learn more about fire prevention and preparedness, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Together, we can work towards creating safer communities and reducing the risk of fire hazards in dry conditions. Stay safe, stay informed, and let's protect what matters most.

For more information or immediate assistance, contact SERVPRO of Gurnee today. Your safety and peace of mind are our priority.

Why call SERVPRO of Gurnee?

4/5/2024 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, we realize you have many options when selecting a restoration and emergency service provider.  So, why should you call us? 

• We are a one stop shop that can handle any job from start to finish.
• As one of 1700 individually owned and operated franchises we have access to more support during harsh weather.
• We are “Faster to any size disaster”.
• SERVPRO is a trusted name in the mitigation and restoration industry.
• We work with all major insurance carriers and have relationships with many local providers.
• Our personal franchise has over 35 years of combined experience in any situation.
• We always put our customers needs first.
• We have the equipment and training to get any job completed.
• We can easily handle both commercial and residential properties.
• Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
• We are locally owned and operated so we live and work in the same communities you do.
• We love what we do and want to help you!

If you have questions, need any assistance or would like a free estimate.  Give us a call today 847-557-1080.

Preparing Your Business for Disaster - Emergency Response Plan

4/5/2024 (Permalink)

Nearly 50% of businesses do not reopen after a disaster. There are many reasons this happens, but a large contributing factor is the lack of a disaster recovery plan.  

SERVPRO of Gurnee can help minimize disruption to your business while delivering superior results.  With a highly trained team and specialized equipment, we can get the job done quickly and professionally.  See our full list of commercial services here.

One way we can be most effective is in creating a no-cost Emergency Response Plan for your business.  Whether you have a large or small operation, it is essential to have a plan in place.

An ERP includes:

• A no cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

Please contact SERVPRO of Gurnee today at 847-838-2954 for more information.  We are here to help!

Understanding Commercial Fire Sprinkler Systems to Minimize Water Damage

3/18/2024 (Permalink)

Fire Protection with Less Water Damage: Choose the Right Sprinkler System

Fire sprinkler systems are a crucial line of defense against commercial property fires. But did you know there are different types designed for specific needs? Choosing the right system can not only help contain a fire but also mitigate potential water damage during fire suppression.

This blog post from SERVPRO of Gurnee, your local disaster restoration experts, will break down the most common commercial fire sprinkler systems:

Wet Pipe Systems: The Most Common Choice

• Consistently filled with water for immediate fire response.
• Heat triggers the sprinkler heads closest to the fire, typically only one or two.
• Ideal for most commercial buildings due to their reliability and cost-effectiveness.

Dry Pipe Systems: Protecting Against Freezing

• Perfect for unheated or cold environments where pipes could freeze.
• Uses pressurized air or gas to keep water out of the pipes until a fire.
• Heat activates the system, releasing the air/gas and allowing water to flow.
• More sprinklers may activate compared to a wet pipe system.

Deluge Systems: Fast Action for High-Risk Areas

• Designed for hazardous environments prone to rapid-spreading fires (e.g., chemical storage)
• Pipes remain empty until a fire is detected.
• A deluge valve opens upon fire alarm, allowing water to discharge from all sprinklers simultaneously.

Pre-Action Systems: Balancing Fire Protection with Water Damage Concerns

• Ideal for areas with valuable water-sensitive equipment or materials.
• Uses pressurized air or gas to hold back water until a fire is confirmed.
• A fire alarm triggers a pre-action valve, filling the pipes with water.
• Similar to a wet pipe system, only the sprinkler heads closest to the fire typically activate.
• "Double Interlock" pre-action systems use additional air pressure, causing more sprinklers to open at once.

Fire Damage or Water Damage? SERVPRO of Gurnee Can Help

Even with fire sprinkler systems, fires and water emergencies can happen. SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help 24/7/365 with advanced water damage restoration and fire remediation services. Call us at 847-838-2954 to minimize the disruption to your business.

Commercial Duct Cleaning for Northern Lake County Businesses

4/28/2023 (Permalink)

Don't let hidden dirt and debris affect the air quality in your business!

Ventilation systems can be a prominent culprit in poor indoor air quality.  SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help improve the air quality in your facility.

Keeping your HVAC system and ductwork clean will extend the life of your equipment, allowing it to run efficiently and save costs.  Contaminants including rodents, insects, dust, dirt, bacteria, mold, and pollen can all be found in HVAC systems. 

5 Steps in the SERVPRO Duct Cleaning Process

• Patented equipment is used that automatically adapts to the ducts shape and diameter, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.
• Push-pull air delivery and collection systems collect debris from the duct to a 16 gallon container.
•  Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system that removes 99.97% of particles from the air.
• Optionally, a sealant or coating product may be applied to address microbial and odor concerns.
• Finally, we replace or clean air filters to remove odor and dirt.

Please contact SERVPRO of Gurnee today at 847-838-2954 for more information.  We are here to help!

Fire Restoration 101: Reconstruction Services

4/4/2023 (Permalink)

Property fires are devastating events. At SERVPRO of Gurnee, we guide our customers through the complete process

Once the process of cleaning and restoring the structure and contents of your home or business that are salvageable has begun, it is time to plan the final phase of fire restoration which is the reconstruction and refinishing of structural elements that were not cleanable.  Depending on the damage sustained, there may be a little or a lot of work to accomplish.

Some common items that may need attention are:

Drywall, Sealing, and Painting

Flooring

Hardwood flooring and/or trim refinishing

Cabinetry repair or replacement

Exterior refinishing such as siding or roofing

Driveway repair (damaged from fire trucks)

Plumbing

Electrical

And more.  Every project is unique.

SERVPRO of Gurnee is uniquely positioned to work with our customers until the final completion of their fire reconstruction.  Our team has decades of experience in construction and understands what it takes to bring you home back to its preloss condition.  Only licensed professionals or direct employees are allowed into your home to perform work, and our standards are high.  

If you are in need of reconstruction after fire or other damage, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Gurnee at 847-838-2954.  We are here to truly make it "Like it never even happened."

Types of Commercial Sprinkler Systems

2/28/2023 (Permalink)

Fire Protection with Less Water Damage: Choose the Right Sprinkler System

Commercial fire sprinkler systems are designed to expel water until they are shut down manually. Choosing the appropriate system for your property and occupancy can mitigate possible water damage.

Wet Pipe System

Most common

• Pipes are filled with water
• Heat from a fire triggers the system and opens the sprinklers closest to the fire
• Usually, only one or two sprinklers open

Dry Pipe System

For areas with below freezing temperatures

• Pipes are filled with pressurized air or gas used to hold water back in a heated space. 
• Heat from a fire opens the sprinklers closest to the fire 
• Air escapes and the dry pipe valve opens to allow water flow
• Usually, more sprinklers open than with a wet pipe system

Deluge System

For use in hazardous environments prone to fast-spreading fires

• Pipes are not filled with water or gas
• All sprinklers stay open
• A signal from a fire detection device opens the deluge valve
• Water will flow from all sprinklers

Pre-Action System

For areas where concerns or water or fire damage to property are high

• Pipes are filled with pressurized air or gas
• Loss of air or gas pressure summons maintenance
• A signal from a fire detection device opens the pre-action valve, filling the pipes with water
• Because sprinkler heads are closed, heat from a fire opens the sprinklers closest to the fire
• Usually only one or two sprinklers open (similar to the wet pipe system). However, ”double interlock” pre-action systems use more air or gas pressure in the pipes, delaying the water delivery and allowing more sprinklers to open at a time (similar to dry pipe systems)

In the event that your business or building sustains damage from water or fire, SERVPRO of Gurnee is Here to Help.  We have the advanced expertise and technology to minimize loss of use in your facility.  Call us for your emergencies 24/7/365 at 847-838-2954.

5 Star Customer Service in Lake County, IL

2/27/2023 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Gurnee, it is our goal to exceed customer expectations.

At SERVPRO of Gurnee, great customer service is of the utmost importance to us.  We work hard to train our emergency personnel to exhibit excellent customer service. When one of our customers is experiencing a water damage or fire damage emergency, we want to be there to help them recover their home or business to preloss condition with as little disruption as possible. 

One such example of this comes from a review written on our website by a customer who experienced damage in their home. Pat W. writes:

"Fabulous team I had today from SERVPRO.  Josh J, Rick, Marcus, and Marquis were SO efficient and friendly.  They seem to have fun together.  Can’t believe they got me packed out in only 3 hours.  Hard workers and very conscientious.  I requested this same team to help me with the basement pack out next week.”

Here at SERVPRO of Gurnee, there is nothing that makes us prouder than knowing our customers are satisfied with a job well done. We are here for your emergencies 24/7/365.  Give us a call for help at 847-838-2954.

After the Storm: Assessing Health and Property Damage in Northern Lake County, IL

2/12/2023 (Permalink)

Winter storms can cause major damage to your home. Inspect the exterior and interior after a storm and call us if you need help!

After a severe winter storm, there is much to assess.  The number one concern is the physical well being of yourself and your family.  Secondly, you’ll want to assess any damage to your property.  Here are some tips for both from the American Red Cross and FEMA:

Check for Frostbite

Frostbite can cause loss of feeling and color around the face, fingers, and toes. Signs may include numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, and firm or waxy skin. Actions to take include going to a warm room, soaking in warm water, and using body heat to warm. Do not massage or use a heating pad

Check for Hypothermia

 Hypothermia is an unusually low body temperature. A temperature below 95 degrees is an emergency. Signs could include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness.  Action to take include going to a warm room, warming the center of the body first—chest, neck, head, and groin. Keep dry and wrapped up in warm blankets, including the head and neck.

Make a careful and thorough inspection of your home’s structural elements

1. Check the outside of your home before you enter
2. Look for loose power lines, broken or damaged gas lines, foundation cracks, missing support beams or other damage. Damage on the outside can indicate a serious problem inside. Ask a building inspector or contractor to check the structure before you enter.
3. Is your ceiling sagging? That means it got wet – which makes it heavy and dangerous. It will have to be replaced.
4. If power is out, use a flashlight.  Do not use any open flame, including candles, to inspect for damage or serve as alternate lighting.
5. Take photographs of the damage. You may need these to substantiate insurance claims later.

If you do find damage, call SERVPRO of Gurnee for help.  We are experienced in these situations, and we know what to do next.  We are a preferred vendor for most insurance companies, and we can help with your claim if you choose to file one.  We are here to help 24/7/365.

Fire Restoration 101: Methods of Content Cleaning

2/4/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gurnee uses Ultrasonic technology to restore delicate items such as this porcelain figurine from damage caused by soot.

When a home or business sustains damage from a fire, much of its contents can often be saved and restored.  The experienced professionals at SERVPRO of Gurnee are trained in multiple methods and technologies which can be used to restore your belongings. The following are specific systems and methods available at our facility. 

ULTRASONIC CLEANING

Ultrasonic technology uses a spectrum of sound frequencies, water, and cleaning solutions to remove debris and soot from non-porous items.  These frequencies range from 20,000-100,000 cycles per second, with various frequencies performing separate applications.  Lower frequencies can be used on sturdier items with heavy soil, and higher frequencies are safer for more delicate items.

ESPORTA WASH SYSTEM

The Esporta Wash System uses hydraulic action to force organic and inorganic contaminants out of items to be cleaned.  Commonly, these items are clothing, linens, and shoes.  The force applied is comparable to the force of waves crashing against a beach.  Esporta restores 90% of soft contents  damaged by odor, soot, grime, mold, and mildew to food-grade clean using sustainable, phosphate-free detergents.  

OZONE CHAMBER

Ozone generation is a process that removes smoke odor molecules by releasing additional oxygen into the air.  While ozone is often used in open air to deodorize a home, there are some safety concerns.  Ozone is most effective when utilized in a controlled environment such as an ozone chamber.  Contents and furniture that cannot fit into either the Ultrasonic system or Esporta are first cleaned by hand and then often placed into an ozone chamber to remove any lingering odors of smoke by eliminating the microorganisms that cause them.  Our dedicated ozone chamber is utilized for items with stubborn embedded odors that would otherwise be impossible to remove.  

SERVPRO of Gurnee is an industry leader in fire restoration.  We have the technology needed to restore your home and belongings to their original state, reducing the amount of personal or sentimental items that would otherwise be unsalvageable.  We are here to help and here to answer your questions 24/7/365.  Give us a call at 847-838-2954.