SERVPRO of Glenview to sponsor complimentary attendance

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

Who's the next winner? Get your tickets to watch the 2021 Evans Scholars Invitational, compliments of SERVPRO of Glenview!

GLENVIEW, Ill. – SERVPRO of Glenview is partnering with the Western Golf Association to provide complimentary admission to golf fans attending the 2021 Evans Scholars Invitational at The Glen Club in Glenview, Illinois, tournament officials announced today.

The Korn Ferry Tour event, featuring golf’s rising stars competing to make the PGA TOUR, is set for Thursday, May 27, through Sunday, May 30. Compliments of SERVPRO of Glenview, free daily grounds admission will be offered to spectators on all four days of competition.

Golf fans planning to attend the Evans Scholars Invitational can register for their free tickets at www.esinvitational.com/2021-tickets. Those registering online can also purchase upgraded tickets to The Hangar, a premium spectator venue that has access to The Glen Club grillroom and patio with food and drink included.

Tournament officials are currently working with the Village of Glenview and the state of Illinois, as well as health authorities, to develop a plan that will enable spectators to attend the event safely, with strict health protocols in place. The safety of everyone involved with the championship remains the top priority. More information about the on-site experience will be available as details are finalized.

“We’re thankful to have SERVPRO of Glenview partner with us to give more Chicago area golf fans the opportunity to watch these exciting young players compete on a local stage,” said Vince Pellegrino, WGA senior vice president of tournaments. “We remain committed to conducting a safe and entertaining event while raising funds for our charitable beneficiary, the Evans Scholars Foundation.”

Held for the first time on the Korn Ferry Tour in 2019, the Evans Scholars Invitational raises funds to help the Evans Scholars Foundation award full tuition and housing college scholarships to deserving youth caddies. This year, there are 1,045 Evans Scholars enrolled in 19 leading universities nationwide.

Locally owned and operated, SERVPRO of Glenview specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial properties after fire, smoke or water damage. They also mitigate the threat of mold and mildew and offer a wide range of cleaning services, including COVID cleaning. Learn more at www.SERVPROglenview.com.

“At SERVPRO of Glenview, we are always looking for opportunities to give back to our community,” said owner Jeff Thompson. “We’re proud to support this exciting event and help the Evans Scholars Foundation raise funds to send young men and women to college.”

Curtis Thompson won the 2020 Evans Scholars Invitational at Chicago Highlands Club in Westchester, Illinois, making birdie on the final hole to edge Will Zalatoris and Jimmy Stanger. Thompson is hoping to follow the path of 2019 champion Scottie Scheffler, who used his victory at The Glen Club as a springboard to the PGA TOUR. Scheffler was named the 2020 PGA TOUR Rookie of the Year after posting seven top-10 finishes.

MARCH 1, 2021 Press release posted at https://www.esinvitational.com/news/SERVPRO-of-glenview-to-sponsor-esi-attendance 

This March, help us support Youth Services

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

Blended + SERVPRO = Glenview Youth Services!

During the month of March, SERVPRO of Glenview is teaming up with Blended Health & Smoothie Bar of Glenview to support Youth Services!

We hope we can count on the members of our community to make this month a huge success!

SERVPRO of Glenview will donate $1 to Youth Services for every special smoothie of the month purchased at Blended Glenview in March.

And you are in for a treat! The special is a Thin Mint Smoothie! That's right! Enjoy the taste of your favorite Girl Scout cookie in a delicious smoothie!

Stop in any time and satisfy your sweet tooth with a Thin Mint Smoothie!

Join us at Blended on Saturday, March 13th -- our SERVPRO StormTrooper will be making a special guest appearance! Get a special smoothie and then snap a selfie with our StormTrooper!

Keep an eye on SERVPRO's Facebook and Instagram pages, where we will be announcing the details of the contest we will be a part of that day! You can earn your contest entry with your photo!

To enter: Post your selfie taken at Blended on your social media page, CHECK IN at Blended Glenview on FB, and be sure to TAG @BlendedGlenview on IG, SERVPRO of Glenview on IG, and Youth Services on IG!

Shhh! We are keeping the contest prize under wraps for the moment, but you won't want to miss out! Stay tuned to our social media for details!

We hope you will join us all month long in supporting Youth Services by purchasing a smoothie of the month at Blended Glenview!

Tips to Help Prevent Pipes From Bursting

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen pipe burst? Search no further - call SERVPRO of Glenview at 847-832-9300!

Are YOU prepared for the polar vortex? Is your HOME winter-ready? 

Arctic Air to Bring Dangerous Cold This Week

With the temperatures dipping below zero this month with the incoming polar vortex, if you haven't already done so, it's imperative to take preventative measures now to protect your water pipes from freezing and subsequently bursting.

We all know water expands as it freezes. If the water inside your pipes freezes, it will expand which can cause your pipes or connections to crack and burst. Water pipes can also burst when pressure builds up behind a chunk of ice, which is why it has long been suggested to leave faucets dripping in extremely cold weather. Whatever the situation that causes a burst pipe, you can end up with extensive water damage.

Pro Tip: Know where your water shutoff valve is so that you can turn off the water in case a pipe bursts! Typically it's located in the basement or buried near the road. Knowing where that valve is located can save precious time when you've got water spraying everywhere and causing damage to your home and belongings.

Take a few steps to prepare and avoid a potential catastrophe:

• Look for areas where your water supply lines are exposed, such as under kitchen and bathroom cabinets:
  • Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated;
  • If you do not have time to insulate them before freezing temps move in, leave the cabinet doors open to let the warmer room temperature to circulate around the exposed pipes.
• Consider installing specific products to insulate exposed water pipes, as each can greatly reduce the likelihood of those pipes freezing and bursting:
  • Foam pipe sleeves;
  • UL-listed heat tape;
  • heat cable or similar materials.
• Protect water pipes that run through unheated areas of your home with insulation; these would be pipes in exposed areas such as your attic, basement, or garage.
• If you haven't already done so:
  • Disconnect and store outdoor hoses;
  • Drain water from outdoor faucets;
  • Cover outdoor faucets with foam insulators;
  • Drain sprinkler systems to keep buried pipes from freezing.

Make it an annual chore each fall to take preventative measures by doing regular home maintenance such as draining exterior water lines, or by insulating and protecting exposed pipes. When the frigid temps of winter come, you will rest easier knowing you have taken steps to prevent your pipes from freezing.

Should the unthinkable happen and your water pipes freeze and then burst, know you can count on SERVPRO of Glenview to respond to your call for help with the resulting water loss. Call us 24/7 at 847-832-9300. Whether your winter water damage is a result of a burst pipe, a frozen water dam in your gutters, or a failed appliance, our SERVPRO team of technicians are always Here to Help®.

Is your place of business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned?

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

Is your place of business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned?

In this ever-changing situation of moving between tiers and phases as we try to prevent COVID-19 resurgence, providing a safe environment for customers, clients, and employees is of utmost importance.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning that goes beyond regular janitorial cleaning. Our professionals are ready to take your business to a higher standard of clean with a viral pathogen cleaning, proactive or reactive, to help your business and community prevent the spread and resurgence of COVID-19.

As businesses in our area in suburban Cook County, Illinois are in the processing of re-opening or allowing more people to enter their premises, they know they have powerful allies in their corner, ready to help hold their businesses to a higher standard of clean.

SERVPRO of Glenview offers a proactive viral pathogen cleaning that helps ensure the cleanliness of the public spaces and work spaces of your place of business. We are pleased that our communities’ continued efforts played a role in the recent move to Tier 1 mitigation status for suburban Cook County (January 25th, 2021). 

As a business member and resident of the Glenview community, our owner Jeff Thompson understands the importance of strengthening the community by supporting other local businesses and helping them stay open throughout the various stages of this pandemic and restrictions.

Practice social distancing. Wear your mask. And let SERVPRO of Glenview sanitize your place of business. Together, we'll grow and strengthen our community, so more businesses can re-open and stay open. SERVPRO of Glenview is here to assist local businesses in preventing the spread and resurgence of COVID-19.

Call 847-832-9300 to get on the calendar so your business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. 

Heavy Snows Can Lead to Residential Water Damage

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

Like any typical January here in the Midwest, we've seen a snowfall or two, yet it's likely the heaviest snow or biggest snowstorm of the season is looming on the horizon.

During these Midwest winters, it is important to remember that heavy snow build-up on your roof has the potential to cause a lot more damage than just a cave in!

Snow loads on your structures can lead to several immediate problems, including roof sagging, roof cave-in, ice dams, sagging gutters, or melting snow leaking into your attic space. All of these have potential for long term damage.

To prevent any possibility of water damage or mold damage from occurring in your home's attic and interior spaces, be proactive in handling any snow build-up on your roof.

If you yourself cannot safely clear the snow from the roof using a roof snow rake, then call snow removal professionals who can take away the snow piled on your roof safely and without damage to person or property.

Should the unthinkable happen and snow build-up on your structure causes water or mold damage, call the experts at SERVPRO of Glenview. We are Here to Help.® Call 847-832-9300.

Happy New Year! Welcome 2021!

1/1/2021 (Permalink)

Welcome 2021!

Looking forward to a great year!
Wishing for you a safe, healthy, and happy new year!

Happy Holidays from SERVPRO of Glenview!

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

Happy Holidays! Merry Christmas!

Wishing you and yours a very warm, very merry holiday season!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Team at SERVPRO of Glenview - Jeff, Saul, Suzie, Ron and Donna

3 Quick Safety Tips When Dealing With Snow and Ice

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

3 quick safety tips to remember when dealing with snow and ice this winter at your home or business

Winter storms bring their own set of dangers for homeowners. If your area gets a significant amount of snow, there are steps you should take to prevent damage to your property, be it residential or commercial.

A significant snowfall will accumulate on the ground as well as on physical structures, such as your house, garage, shed, office, and so on. Your task will be to clear the snow, keep access to the property clear of snow, and to do so safely.

Your first priority will be to clear the snow on the ground to provide clear access to your home's entry points, such as the walkway to your front door and the driveway or street leading to your parking area or garage.

Take a moment to look up! See how much snow is on your roof and determine the safest way to clear it. Don't let snow pile too high, as excessive snow can cause structural damage from the weight of the snow, in addition to potential water damage caused by ice dams in gutters or roof crevices, or from melting snow penetrating into the interior spaces, such as your attic.

Your safety should be your number one concern when clearing snow from your property! Here are the top three tips you should remember:

1. Stay at ground level, if possible. This is the safest place for you to be. Ladders can become unstable on slippery, icy surfaces.
2. Don't let snow pile too high, whether that's on the ground or on your roof or other overhead structures. Remove as much as you safely can.
3. Use a plastic shovel, as metal shovels (or metal edges on shovels) can cause damage to your shingles, gutters, and siding. Better yet, use a roof snow rake - a tool meant to remove snow from roofs while the user stands safely on the ground.

If you cannot safely remove the accumulated snow from your property, be it snow on the ground or on your structure, call in a service to take care of it for you. Snow removal companies have the tools and manpower to safely clear the snow that has the potential to cause damage to your property, home, or business.

Snow left on the ground or roofs can go through several melt-freeze cycles, which creates a far more treacherous situation, as the underlying snow becomes compacted or turns into a thick sheet of ice. The dangers of this situation are numerous: snow and ice can cause people or animals to slip and fall on the ground; delivery persons can have difficulty accessing entry with packages or mail; snow or ice overhead can slide off, possibly onto and hurting persons below.

More Tips on Fire Prevention During the Holidays

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Keep candles safely away from flammable objects, such as furniture, curtains, or decorations.

While it's always important to be fire smart around your home, the team at SERVPRO of Glenview would like to gently remind you to be extra-cautious when decking out your home for the holidays.

Be aware of any fire dangers that may be present at this time, from holiday lights and decorations to your tree, from a crowded kitchen stovetop to lit candles in your home.

In today's blog post, we're focusing on fire prevention and fire safety tips that are important to remember not only during the holidays, but the whole year through.

Take a look around your home as you prepare to entertain guests during the holidays. There may be fire hazards you overlook simply because you live there and don't "see" them. More than half of home decoration fires in December are started by candles, so pay close attention to candles in your home!

• Keep candles and melted wax warmers out of reach of small children and pets.
• Pay special attention to the power cords for melted wax warmers to ensure they do not dangle or lay where they can be accidentally tripped over or snagged and knock the warmer over.
• When candles are lit, ensure they are not near any flammable objects, such as decorations, curtains, or greeting cards.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop. Keep a watchful eye in case someone lays an oven mitt or dishtowel near the stove where it may catch fire.
• Test your smoke alarms before guests arrive and have a fire extinguisher accessible to the kitchen (and fireplace, if you have one and will be using it). If you haven't replaced the batteries in your smoke alarms when you reset the clocks last month, now would be a very good time to replace batteries!
• Blow out all candles and turn off all lights and decorations, both indoor and outdoor, before you go to bed. Note, electrical decorations as well as battery-powered ones should be unplugged or turned off.
• Ask smokers to smoke outside; provide deep ashtrays with a bit of water so butts can be extinguished before guests return indoors.
• Remember that, while nostalgic and picture-perfect, lighting real candles on your Christmas tree is an extreme fire hazard.

The National Fire Prevention Association works to educate the public about potential fire risks during the holidays, offering tip sheets, videos, and other resources. Learn more by visiting their website.

If the unthinkable should happen and you have a fire in your home during the holidays, know that you can call on SERVPRO® of Glenview to help clean up the fire and smoke damage. We are available 24/7/365 - call us at 847-832-9300.

Happy Hanukkah

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Happy Hanukkah!

Wishes of peace and light to you and your loved ones during this season of miracles! Happy Hanukkah!

How to SAFELY Deck the Halls this Holiday Season

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

While it's always important to be fire smart around your home, the team at SERVPRO of Glenview would like to gently remind you to be extra-cautious when decking out your home for the holidays.

Be aware of any fire dangers that may be present at this time, from holiday lights and decorations to your tree, from a crowded kitchen stovetop to lit candles in your home.

In today's blog post, we're focusing on fire prevention and fire safety when decorating for the upcoming holidays.

Your Christmas tree should bring joy and happiness to your home during the holidays; it should not be the cause of disaster or fire. These guidelines apply if you have an artificial tree, but additional precautions must be taken if you have a live tree.

• Never let your live tree dry out! Always keep it watered!
• Make sure your tree is at least 3ft away from any heat source
• Make sure your tree is not blocking an exit
• NEVER use or light candles on your tree!
• Inspect the lights you use to decorate your tree. 1 in every 4 home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.
• Holiday decorations come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and are used both indoors and outside. Be smart about choosing your holiday decorations, as well as where you place them.
• Choose flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations whenever possible
• Use only UL approved, outdoor-rated lights when decorating the outdoors
• Use appropriate means of hanging your lights; for instance, use plastic clips, not metal nails
• Keep decorations away from windows and doors which are opened and closed frequently
• Be sure you don't overload your electrical circuit or connect too many strings of lights
• Replace damaged, worn, or old strings of lights and decorations. If possible, replace them with LED strings, as these pose less of a fire hazard.
• Unplug the strings of lights on a live tree right after the Christmas holiday, to minimize the chance that your drying tree catches an electrical spark and ignites.
• Lastly, dispose of your live tree as soon as it begins to dry out.

Look for more tips on holiday fire safety in our upcoming blog posts!

The National Fire Prevention Association works to educate the public about potential fire risks during the holidays, offering tip sheets, videos, and other resources. Learn more by visiting their website: http://bit.ly/2DXIx5Q

If the unthinkable should happen and you have a fire in your home during the holidays, know that you can call on SERVPRO® of Glenview to help clean up the fire and smoke damage. We are available 24/7/365 - call us at 847-832-9300.

In 2020, We Are Grateful for the Dedicated Members of our Team

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

What are you grateful for?

2020 certainly has been a special year. The viral pandemic has impacted family lives, business operations, social activities, and the overall health of each and every one of us. Thanksgiving celebrations everywhere are unlike the gatherings of years gone by.

This year, for this day of thanks, the team at SERVPRO of Glenview would like to wish our customers, clients, community members, and vendors a safe, healthy, and meaningful Thanksgiving. May this year bring you the opportunity to see beyond material objects, to look within, and to discover what it is that you truly value and are thankful to have.

As we take a moment to contemplate all the changes and how things are different this year, there are still many reasons we are thankful, and as such, we count our blessings.

SERVPRO of Glenview has been operating under owner Jeff Thompson, for three years, since October 2017.  We are thankful for the loyal members of our team: Production Manager, Saul Perez, who has been with Jeff from the beginning; new Office Manager, Donna Thompson, who joined the office team in September; Suzie Koivun, Marketing Manager, who shifted departments in September; and Crew Chief, Ron Elmgren, who joined the production crew in March. Additionally, we are thankful we have crew members that we were able to count on in our times of need this year, as they came in and worked 10-12 hour days during the huge storm event in May. Thank you to Walden, Tim, Aaron, Steve, Luis, Matty, Brian, Zack, Aleks, Troy, Jordan, Jonah, and David.  

Each of our SERVPRO team members is blessed with a wonderful family and we are grateful that they understand that at times our jobs with SERVPRO call us away from our time with them. This year in particular, families have had an extra worry, because SERVPRO of Glenview provides residential and commercial bioremediation services for the very virus that has changed the way we live our lives: coronavirus. SERVPRO of Glenview production team members have responded to positive covid exposures and provided sanitizing and disinfection services for a growing number of area businesses and residences. We are grateful they are helping our communities be safer as a result.

2020 has also been a "storm-y" year. There were days of great rainfall in our area in May and hundreds of area homes were impacted by the storm. Our teams were busy for three solid weeks in May and June, pumping out basements that flooded and providing mitigation services. In late August, Hurricane Laura made landfall in Lake Charles, LA, and SERVPRO of Glenview was one of the first franchises to respond to the call from corporate for help. Our team spent over two months in Louisiana - including having to evacuate to Houston themselves when Hurricane Delta blew through. All in all, we were among the 62 franchises who provided support and assistance to the overwhelmed residents and businesses of southwestern Louisiana. 2020 continues to be a record-breaking hurricane season. As of this writing, Hurricane Iota, a Category 5 storm, was the latest hurricane this season to make landfall. We are nearing the end of November - but we are not yet at the end of the hurricane season! Not only are we thankful to our team members for the extended time and efforts in mitigating homes and businesses in Lake Charles, LA, we extend our thanks and gratitude to their wives and families and pets that they left for over two months. We know everyone is glad our team is back home and safe!

We are thankful for continued growth in the Glenview/Northbrook communities. We are grateful for the dedicated service of our local first responders, fire fighters, police, and emergency personnel - their continued loyalty to serving our community has not gone unnoticed or unappreciated this year. Special thanks to all the healthcare workers in our lives for their extraordinary support this year!

We are grateful for our customers who call on us, depend on us, and trust us to provide them with cleanup and restoration services following fire, smoke, or water damage at their home or residence. We know the situation is stressful and aggravating, and we appreciate that our customers count on us to respond quickly and get the job done right.

Thank you for choosing SERVPRO of Glenview for your Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration needs. We are always Here to Help.® 

Call our office at 847-832-9300 if you should need any of our services at your home or business. Know that our team is dedicated to serving our customers in their time of need. We hope we make you feel like you're part of our family. And if you ARE our customer, we certainly hope you feel that way! We are always so very thankful for your positive words in an online review, recommendation, or referral.

Proactive Steps You Should Take to Keep Your Pets Safe During Storms or Other Emergencies

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

The team at SERVPRO of Glenview reminds you to keep your pets safe, especially during a storm or other emergency event

Don't forget about your pets!

Even the tv weatherperson is never accurate in predicting just how bad a storm will be, and it is even harder to know what kind of damage it will cause to your home. Amid all the chaos that you may be facing after storm damage - such as a leaking roof, a power outage, or a flooding basement - it can be easy to forget that your pets are also in danger.

Here are some simple and easy steps that you can follow to make sure your pet is as safe and secure as can be during emergency storms:

• Make sure that your pet is microchipped and has an ID tag on their collar, whenever possible. Of course, it’s important to keep pets indoors and in a safe environment, but sometimes loud noises can frighten them and, depending on the pet, lead them to attempt an escape.
• Keep extra food and clean water in a safe, water-proof area. It’s possible that your water supply could be shut off or contaminated, and so you should keep some handy just for your animal friend.
• Give your pet medication, a thunder vest, or whatever else they need to keep their anxiety down. Make sure you check in with a vet before you decide on any medications. If they have a space where they feel safe, make sure it’s available to them.
• Have a contingency plan for their bathroom needs. In extreme cold, rain, or storms, you may not be able to take your pet out. If you have a cat, keep a clean box, and for dogs you can use sanit-pads in the bathroom or any other waterproof areas.

These are a few, simple guidelines that we hope can help you create a safe environment for your pet during emergency situations. Still, you know your pet and their needs best, so keep their safety in mind amid all the many things that you may be dealing with following a damaging storm event.

Should the storm damage have caused a flood in your home, it’s always a good idea to call a professional in case any dangerous molds, bacteria, or other pathogens are present, which are harmful to both pets and humans.

If you have any questions, we are Here to Help®! Call SERVPRO of Glenview at 847-832-9300.

Celebrate Safely This Holiday Season

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

Put a Freeze on Winter Holiday Fires with these tips from the U.S. Fire Administration

In a year when large holiday gatherings may not be possible, fire damage restoration specialist Jeff Thompson of SERVPRO of Glenview says a focus on family decorating traditions and more intimate celebrations may take on extra significance. "It's as important to keep safety top of mind with a small family gathering as it is with a large holiday party," says Thompson. "We all enjoy bringing the glow of the holiday season to our homes with Christmas trees or menorahs and candlelight, but these statistics from the US Fire Administration show how easy it is for home decorating to turn into a home disaster."

The top three days for home candle fires are Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and New Year's Eve.

In addition to exercising caution with candles and heat sources, it is important to follow manufacturers' guidelines for holiday lighting, says Thompson. "According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in 44% of home Christmas tree fires. Though Christmas tree fires may not be common, they can be devastating to more than the house itself. They can destroy irreplaceable photos, mementos, and family heirlooms, and may even cost lives," says Thompson. "To help keep your holidays bright and your home and family safe, use common sense with candles and tree placement, and follow these important home decorating guidelines."

Only use decorations that are flame-retardant or non-flammable.

"In a year when so many of the things we take for granted have changed, we know people will still come together - in person or virtually - to celebrate family and holiday traditions," states Thompson. "'Stay safe' has become a common expression in the context of public health, but this holiday season, we urge all Glenview-area home and business owners to think about 'staying safe' as they prepare for and enjoy the upcoming holiday season."

SERVPRO is an industry leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services. For more fire prevention and fire safety tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit www.SERVPROglenview.com. For more information on SERVPRO of Glenview, please contact our office at 847-832-9300.

Act Now to Prevent Pipes from Freezing This Winter

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Don't delay! Act today to prevent your water pipes from freezing this winter!

Each November, many Glenview-area residents can be found outside working around their homes. Reading this, what comes to mind for most folks is that homeowners are outside in November, either taking down Halloween decorations or putting up Christmas lights, inflatables, and other yard decorations.

While decorating your home for the holidays is a festive chore, Midwest homeowners should not overlook the regular home maintenance that should be done in order to winterize your home. Before the onset of the cold winter weather, be sure to protect your water pipes from freezing by taking the time to do these simple chores.

If you have an outdoor swimming pool, hot tub or jacuzzi, or have a lawn sprinkler system, be sure to drain water from your pool, tub, or sprinkler supply lines by following the manufacturer's or installer's directions. Do not put antifreeze in these lines unless specifically directed to do so. Not only is antifreeze environmentally harmful, it is dangerous to humans, pets, and landscaping. It is important to keep antifreeze out of our public sanitation and sewage lines.

While not every home will have a pool, but certainly most homes will have an outdoor water spigot and hose. To winterize your outdoor hose bib (spigot/faucet), close inside valves supplying the outdoor hose bib. Open the outside hose bib to allow water to drain. Remember to keep the outside valve open through the winter so that any water remaining in the pipe can expand without causing the pipe to break. Lastly, drain, remove, and store any hoses you've used outdoors by keeping them in a shed or garage. If you must store your hoses outdoors, be sure they are fully drained so the water does not freeze and expand and crack the hose over the winter.

Be sure to check around your home for other areas where supply lines by be located in unheated areas. Check areas such as your garage, attic, basement, and crawl space. Add insulation to these areas to help maintain higher temperatures which will help prevent freezing.

Look for areas where your water supply lines are exposed, such as under kitchen and bathroom cabinets, especially if the cabinets are located against an exterior wall. Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated.

Consider installing specific products to insulate water pipes. Installing pipe sleeves, or UL-listed heat tape, heat cable, or similar materials on exposed water pipes can greatly reduce the likelihood of those pipes freezing and bursting.

If you are in an area that does not usually have frequent or prolonged temperatures below freezing, know that even a 1/4 inch of newspaper can provide some degree of insulation and significant protection to exposed pipes, if you are weighing your cost-to-benefit ratio.

If you have experienced freezing or burst pipes in the past, and protecting the exposed pipes has not proved to be effective, a more costly option, if possible, would be to relocate the exposed pipes to provide increased protection from heating.

Take preventative measures this month by doing regular home maintenance such as draining exterior water lines, or by insulating and protecting exposed pipes. When the frigid temps of winter come, you will rest easier knowing you have taken steps to prevent your pipes from freezing.

Should the unthinkable happen and your water pipes freeze and then burst, know you can count on SERVPRO of Glenview to respond to your call for help with the resulting water loss. Call us 24/7 at 847-832-9300. Whether your winter water damage is a result of a burst pipe, a frozen water dam in your gutters, or a failed appliance, our SERVPRO team of technicians are always Here to Help®.

Stay Warm and Stay Safe This Winter

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

As winter approaches, SERVPRO of Glenview would like to provide you with some safety tips on using space heaters and preventing the possibility of fire damage.

Our technicians understand that accidents happen. Using the wrong type of heater in a particular area can cause severe problems, as can placing space heaters too close to other objects.  To avoid setting up a situation in your home which might lead to fire, consider the type and location of heater you purchase to use in your home.

Electric heaters are the most popular type of space heaters customers purchase and they are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Electric space heaters can be useful in many areas of your home; however, they should never be left unattended. Make sure you have sufficient wattage to run the heating device without tripping the circuit. Always plug the heater directly into an outlet - NEVER use an extension cord. Also - never use an electric heater in a wet or moist environment, such as your bathroom or wet basement.

Oil heaters should be used where there is the possibility of moisture. This eliminates any electrical hazards that may be present due to water conductivity. Always keep a safe distance once the heater is running to avoid contact burns.

We highly recommend following these simple guidelines when operating your space heater:

1. Always place space heaters on a dry, flat, solid surface for stabilization. Do not place on thick carpeting or other flammable surface.
2. Purchase heaters with an automatic shut-off feature to prevent dangers which may occur from tipping.
3. Maintain proper spacing between heaters and other objects in your home. Pay very close attention to the proximity between the heater and soft, flammable objects such as furniture including couches, chairs, beds, bedding, blankets, pillows, clothing, and even pet peds.
4. Never leave children or pets unsupervised around operating heaters.
5. Shut your heaters off properly before leaving your home or going to sleep. If you must use a heater at night, set it on a timer to turn off after a short time.

Following these guidelines means you are much less likely to have such a destructive consequence; however, this does not guarantee there won't be a fire. If a fire breaks out at your home or business this winter season, you should make 3 calls immediately: FIRST, CALL 9-1-1! Then call your insurance agent and start a claim. Then call SERVPRO of Glenview. We will respond quickly and provide you with the services you need to get your life back to normal fast.

Call SERVPRO of Glenview 24/7/365 at 847-832-9300

What Kind of Damage Can Floods Do to a House?

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Flood damage from spring storms, heavy rains, and overloaded drainage networks can wreak havoc on your home and property.

Flooding can wreak utter havoc on your Glenview home and the best thing you can do about it is to call a good flood damage remediator, like SERVPRO of Glenview.

Glenview and Northbrook, like many other North Shore Chicago communities, often seem like the setting of a John Hughes film, because they ARE!. The idyllic suburban atmosphere and manicured greenery can trick local homeowners into thinking disasters could never happen in their neighborhood, but this is not the case and flooding can be a fairly common occurrence here. Unfortunately, living in a North Shore community is not like life in the movies!

What usually causes flooding in our area?

Flood damage in Glenview generally results from the effects of heavy rains that often impact the Midwest region each spring and early summer. These swell the nearby Des Plaines River and overflow local ponds and creeks. Since this area is mostly flat, this excess water quickly rises to levels that affect local homes and businesses. Gutters and town drainage networks get clogged by common debris and yard waste, and these networks then spill out onto nearby lands and inundate residences and commercial properties. Whenever this happens, it is necessary to call an experienced flood damage cleanup and restoration service such as SERVPRO of Glenview.

How do the standing waters of a flood affect your home?

At SERVPRO, our professionals have seen the many effects of standing floodwaters on homes and their contents. Some of these develop almost immediately after flooding occurs, while others develop over time. A few common issues resulting from standing floodwaters include:

• buckled or collapsed floors
• warped walls
• disintegrating drywall and plaster
• discoloration or corrosion of surfaces
• dirty water that is trapped behind walls and in other difficult-to-access areas
• backed up sewage systems

These severe problems require the assistance of trained professionals who know what they are doing. Otherwise, costly mistakes could be made, wasting both time and money.

Is it possible to save household contents impacted by floodwaters?

Most often, contents coming into contact with floodwaters are not salvageable due to the fact that these waters are considered to be the most contaminated type of water. They are usually filled with the most hazardous pollutants like animal carcasses, human and animal wastes, toxic chemicals, trash of all kinds, and dangerous microbes. However, SERVPRO is sometimes able to save irreplaceable valuables, such as expensive Persian rugs, damaged by floodwaters by employing innovative methods, industrial-grade washing and drying equipment, and enzyme and chemical-free soaps.

What effect do flood-borne microbes have on your home?

As previously noted, floods bring with them harmful microbes. These microorganisms could affect your property in many ways, as you can imagine. The effects vary in severity and can impact everything from the superficial aesthetics to the structural integrity of your home. Some of the most notable of these effects are:

• mold/mildew stains and other discoloration on floors, baseboards, walls, and ceilings
• strong musty or otherwise foul odors that are difficult to neutralize
• dry rot that develops over time and undermines the structural integrity of your residence
• harmful bacteria growths that could cause health effects

It is important to realize that each of these potential issues becomes much more likely the longer you wait to have your home remediated. Moreover, if these effects already do exist, they worsen over time if not properly addressed.

How does SERVPRO resolve the various effects of flooding?

SERVPRO of Glenview has the necessary expertise and all the latest state-of-the-art tools to successfully resolve your flood-related issues. For years, we have tackled numerous problems associated with standing floodwaters and the dangerous microbes they carry. Our technicians have done this with:

• powerful extractors and pumps that rapidly remove gallons of standing water from structures
• professional hazardous waste disposal methods that are safe for both residents and the environment
• advanced high-velocity fans, air movers, and dehumidifiers that quickly reduce interior humidity to normal levels
• cutting edge Injectidry systems and floor pads that can remove water from difficult-to-access areas behind ceilings and walls, as well as under floorings
• high-tech foggers that can fill impacted air and materials with EPA-approved antimicrobials and deodorants

Using all of these impressive resources, SERVPRO experts are usually able to return your home to its pre-flood condition in record time.

If and when flooding damages your residence, remember that not all is lost. There is high-quality help available nearby! Call SERVPRO of Glenview at 847-832-9300 whenever you need our assistance dealing with flood damage.

Is Your Business Prepared, Should a Disaster Occur?

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Reduce the impact of disaster on your business with a personalized Emergency READY Profile from SERVPRO.

There is no question that 2020 has been a rough year for small businesses. Each month, the COVID pandemic has impacted businesses, from the number of people staying home and not frequenting places of business, to imposed restrictions on how and when your place of business could be open, the financial reports for businesses certainly look much different this year.

Pandemic-related concerns aside though, as a small business owner, have you given any thought to how your business would survive if a disaster should occur?

It is estimated that up to 50% of businesses never repoen after they have been closed due to a disaster such as a fire or flood. Disaster can strike in the blink of an eye and when it does, those who are prepared for it can bounce back much quicker than those who have no plan in place.

SERVPRO of Glenview can help you business get back on track after a disaster by providing the necessary cleanup and restoration following water, storm, or fire damage. The mitigation and remediation efforts to restore your business to pre-disaster condition are a vital service we provide.

However, a key component for making it through any size disaster is preparation. Whether your commercial property experiences a small water leak, a large fire, or an area-wide flood, the best time to plan for such events is well before they even happen!

This is where SERVPRO of Glenview comes in! We can help your business be prepared by developing your personalized Emergency READY Profile (ERP), a quick reference of important building and contact information that serves as an ideal supplement to your existing contingency program.

Because every hour lost cleaning and restoring your property after a disaster is an hour of lost revenue, we can help minimize the damage a disaster may cause by helping you be best prepared to face a disaster.

Call SERVPRO of Glenview at 847-832-9300 to schedule our no-cost visit to assess your business or commercial property, where we can help develop your personalized Emergency READY Profile. Benefit from SERVPRO's 50+ years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disasters on your business.

Commercial Services Offered by SERVPRO of Glenview

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Glenview is Here to Help® you get back to business after a disaster strikes. Call 847-832-9300

SERVPRO of Glenview offers a number of commercial services, all available to the business of our community. We are dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in the local North Shore areas of Glenview, Northbrook, Winnetka, Niles, Des Plaines, Northfield, Golf, Skokie, and Wilmette.

We can respond immediately to your emergency to provide water/storm damage mitigation or fire damage restoration to your commercial property.

In addition to being locally owned and operated, SERVPRO of Glenview is a trusted leader in the restoration industry. Our highly trained technicians use advanced restoration and cleaning equipment, have the training and expertise to respond to your emergency, and are available to provide 24-hour response to your emergency to help get your business back on track.

Learn more about our Commercial Services on our website, or call 847-832-9300.

Every hour spent cleaning up after a disaster is an hour of lost revenue and productivity; our team understands that there's never a "convenient time" for your commercial property or business to sustain water or fire damage. When you have need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, call on the team at SERVPRO of Glenview.

We offer the following services:

• commercial water damage restoration
• commercial fire damage restoration
• commercial mold remediation
• commercial storm damage cleanup
• Disaster Recovery Team

No matter the size or type of your business, SERVPRO of Glenview is Here to Help.®

• small office buildings
• large office / high-rise office buildings
• apartment buildings
• restaurants
• hotels and motels
• small retail stores
• large retail / big-box stores
• high-rise residential buildings
• manufacturing & industrial buildings
• government / military buildings
• gyms, fitness centers, athletic buildings

SERVPRO of Glenview is Here to Help®

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Fire or Water, Mold or Virus - no matter your disaster, SERVPRO of Glenview is Here to Help®

WE ARE HERE TO HELP YOU

From residential services to commercial services, SERVPRO of Glenview is a locally owned company with national resources that is here to help YOU!

From repairing restoring your home after flooding to disinfecting your business during the COVID pandemic, from cleaning carpets to remediating mold, from mitigating storm damage to helping restore your home after a fire, SERVPRO of Glenview has the equipment, training, and expertise to help YOU.

We're a trusted leader in the cleanup and restoration industry, providing 24-hour emergency service to Glenview and other local North Shore communities. Our crews are dedicated to responding immediately to your residential or commercial needs. That makes us a smart choice to clean up and restore your property. Explore our website and let us know what we can do for you. What defines SERVPRO of Glenview?

• 24-hour emergency service
• faster to any size disaster
• highly-trained restoration technicians
• a trusted leader in the restoration industry
• locally owned and operated
• use advanced restoration and cleaning equipment

Residential Services

SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the restoration industry, with over 50 years of experience and over 1,700 franchises in the US and Canada. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look "Like it never even happened."

Commercial Services

Your property's appearance speaks volumes to your clients and customers. When your business is impacted by fire, water damage, or COVID exposure, you need professional help. Every hour spent restoring your business is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When you need emergency restoration services or professional cleaning, we have the training and resources to get your property back to business quickly.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Our owner, Jeff Thompson, is a Glenview resident, so our franchise truly is locally owned and operated. We are part of the community we serve. When you have a restoration or cleaning need, we're already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in part of the Glenview community and want to do our part in making it the best we can.

Have Questions? Call Us Today - 847-832-9300

We are proud to serve our local communities by providing 24-hour emergency services, being Here to Help® and being faster to any size disaster.

September Is National Preparedness Month

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Disasters Don't Wait. Make Your Plan Today.

Glenview, IL Aug 24, 2020 - Each year, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) designates September as National Preparedness Month to promote the importance of family and community disaster planning. This year's theme, "Disasters Don't Wait. Make Your Plan Today.", resonates strongly as local communities and communities around the world battle the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. For disaster mitigation specialists like Saul Perez of SERVPRO of Glenview, the scope and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on all aspects of everyday life, health, and well-being have magnified the importance of SERVPRO's ongoing message to the communities it serves: When disaster strikes, preparedness is the best defense.

"Before COVID-19 exploded into a global crisis, 'disaster preparedness' for the everyday home or business owner was largely dictated by the hazards unique to their location or business," said Perez. "For some, that meant preparing for hurricanes and water damage; for others, tornadoes, flooding, wind damage, or even wildfires. But COVID-19 taught us that everyone - individuals and business owners alike - needs to be prepared for a national emergency that may disrupt food and medical supplies, transportation systems, schools, businesses, and every single aspect of everyday life that we take for granted. We've learned that, no matter where you live or work, in addition to your 'disaster' preparation, making certain that you have a stock of some basic items on hand can make a huge difference if a national or global event suddenly disrupts - or even stops - everyday life."

Perez emphasizes that everyone still needs to have a disaster preparedness plan in place. FEMA provides easy-to-use disaster planning guidelines at www.ready.gov, and home and business owners both can take advantage of free tools like the SERVPRO READY app at https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp. The app stores essential contact and property information electronically where it can be accessed with a mobile device in seconds if disaster strikes. Local business owners can take an additional preparedness step by designating SERVPRO of Glenview as their disaster mitigation and restoration provider. SERVPRO professionals will conduct a no-cost assessment of the facility and assist the owner in completing a comprehensive Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) to be stored in the READY app.

But, Perez reminds us, COVID-19 has taught us we need to rethink and add to our disaster preparedness toolkits. "We are all still struggling with a 'disaster' that has disrupted not only our lives and our jobs, but our entire community, our society, and the supply chain that we depend on."

While in retrospect, the shortages of some of these items have become the stuff of urban legend, Perez says it's a good idea to stockpile a supply of items for which there are no easy substitutes. "Toilet paper; yeast and flour for breadmaking; detergents; canned foods, fruits, and vegetables; pet foods and cat litter; fresh dairy items; diapers; and a host of other items were in short supply for weeks at the beginning of the crisis," said Perez. "Think back on those early weeks and keep a supply of the things that you just don't want to do without - along with some shelf-stable dairy items, dried beans, and frozen meals. Use them before they expire but be sure to replace them."

The disaster remediation specialists at SERVPRO of Glenview extend their sincere sympathy to those who have lost loved ones or who have been otherwise affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. For Glenview and Northbrook area commercial and residential customers, SERVPRO of Glenview continues to specialize in disaster restoration, cleanup, and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it "Like it never even happened." For more information on SERVPRO of Glenview, please contact Suzie Koivun at 847-832-9300 or suzie.koivun@SERVPROglenview.com. For more information on SERVPRO® and the SERVPRO Emergency READY Program, please visit https://ready.SERVPRO.com.

About SERVPRO

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO franchise system is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO's professional services network of more than 1,800 individually owned and operated franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO system has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients as well as individual homeowners.

SERVPRO of Glenview, Your 24-hr Emergency Water Damage Service

8/19/2020 (Permalink)

Response time is critical following water damage. Call on the experts at SERVPRO of Glenview ASAP! We're here 24/7/365 and ready to help!

SERVPRO of Glenview is available to respond to water emergencies, large or small, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

Call when you need us - (847) 832-9300

We understand that when you call us with a water emergency, you may be feeling stressed, confused, or vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you though this crisis. SERVPRO of Glenview has the specific water damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage cleanup and restoration - in fact, that's the cornerstone of our business.

What to expect when you call us

When you call us we will ask several questions regarding your water emergency and damage. These questions help us determine what course of action needs to be taken, such as what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO representative will ask several questions, including:

• Your name and contact information (address, phone number/s, email)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When the flooding or water damaged occurred
• What caused the water damage (if known)
• Whether there is electricity available on-site
• Your insurance information (if applicable)

About SERVPRO of Glenview

SERVPRO of Glenview specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial properties after a fire, smoke, water, or storm damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Happy Birthday to Our Office Manager, Suzie!

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Happy Birthday, Suzie!!!

Sending birthday wishes to the best and busiest gal at our Glenview office, office manager Suzie Koivun!

Grilling Fires Peak in July

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

Be safe. Be informed. Be prepared. Grill safely!

SERVPRO® Alerts Local Grill Masters: Grilling Fires Peak in July

Fire and water clean-up professionals offer Glenview and Northbrook area homeowners tips for safe outdoor cooking

The summer grilling season is here and outdoor cooking and socially-distanced picnic gatherings are a welcome change for families eager to get out and enjoy the warm weather. As families and friends prepare their next outdoor feast, Jeff Thompson of SERVPRO® of Glenview, a local fire and disaster remediation specialist, urges area property owners to keep in mind some sobering grilling fire facts from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

• Gas grills, hibachis, and barbeques are involved in an average of nearly 9,000 home fires each year, including 3,900 structure fires and 4,900 outdoor fires. Charcoal and other solid-fueled grills contribute to another 1,300 home fires per year.
• An average of 19,700 patients each year visit emergency rooms because of injuring involving grills. Nearly half (9,500 or 48%) of the injuries are thermal burns from fire (about 4,300) and from contact with hot objects (about 5,200). Children under age five account for an average of 2,000 of those contact-type burns.
• July is the peak month for grill fires (18%), including both structure, outdoor, or unclassified fires, followed by June (15%), May (13%), and August (12%).

"According to the NFPA, three out of five households own a gas grill - and gas grills are the chief culprit in home grilling fires," says Thompson. "And while grill-related fires peak between May and August, nearly half of home grillers use their grills year-round." Thompson shares the following advice from the NFPA with Glenview-area homeowners to help ensure that the only smoke coming from their outdoor feast is from their grill - and not from a property fire.

All Grills

• Use your propane or charcoal grills OUTDOORS only! Place your grill away from your home or deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area. Never leave your grill unattended!
• Keep your grill clean. Remove a grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill. Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

Propane Grills

• Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year.
• If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.
• If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least five minutes before re-lighting it.

Charcoal Grills

• A charcoal chimney uses newspaper as a fuel to start the charcoal. If you use a starter fluid instead, use only charcoal starter fluid. If you use an electric charcoal starter, make sure to use an extension cord rated for outdoor use.
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire once it is lit and going!
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals cool completely before transferring them to a metal container for disposal. NEVER throw coals or ash away without allowing them to cool completely!

"Even if no one is injured, a home fire is a devastating event. It can destroy not just property but priceless memories and create chaos in the aftermath," said Thompson. "Cleaning-up after a fire can feel overwhelming because it often involves smoke and water damage beyond the damage from the fire and flames. While we hope that these guidelines will help Glenview-area homeowners have a safe, fire-free grilling season, accidents can and do happen. If you do experience a structure fire, our SERVPRO®-trained professionals can help you get on the road to normal by managing clean-up efforts and helping with insurance and recovery. When disaster strikes, our goal, as always, is to make it seem "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO® specializes in fire and water cleanup and restoration services and repair services, helping to remediate danger for both commercial and residential customers. For more information on SERVPRO® of Glenview, please contact Jeff Thompson at 847-832-9300. For more information on SERVPRO, please view our services on our home page, www.SERVPROglenview.com.

Resources: https://www.nfpa.org/grilling and https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/Grilling_safety_Tips.pdf

Flooded? Follow these safety tips!

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

At some point in your life, you may experience a flood in your home, whether large or small. Here are some safety tips and action steps to follow.

Flooded???

Whether your home is a single-residence house, a townhome, a condo, an apartment, or even a cabin, dealing with a flood should follow a similar timeline.

First and foremost: YOUR SAFETY! Account that all family members or residents (including pets) are safe! If this is a major flood event, you may have to evacuate your residence. If water enters the building making evacuation impossible, move to an upper floor or higher area and wait for rescuers.

A note on driving safety: If you evacuated, do not attempt to drive through floods or rising waters! Nearly half of all flash flood fatalities are auto-related.

A flood in your home can occur for many reasons. Storm damage is a big reason: a storm, a flash flood, backed up sewers or storm drains, storm damage to the home that allows water indoors (such as a hole in the roof or a broken window). Storm damage can wreak havoc on your home, bringing in as little as an inch, or worse - water measured in feet.

Water damage can also occur due to something inside the home failing:

• a burst pipe (whether it was frozen or not)
• a failed hose, valve, or coupling
• an appliance malfunction (such as a broken dishwasher, washing machine, water heater, or refrigerator)
• a pump that failed to function properly (whether it's a sump pump or an ejector pump)
• an overflowing toilet or a "stuck" faucet that caused a sink, tub, or shower to overflow

Obviously, water and storm damage caused by nature is out of your control. You can only wait it out. Only once the storm is over and the flood waters have begun to recede can you begin to take stock of the damage and begin the mitigation and reconstruction processes.

However, when you have an event that is not of natural causes, such as that occurs when pipes burst or appliances fail, it is imperative to stop the water at the source. You may need to turn off the water supply, either to a specific appliance or area or to the whole home, by turning off the water shutoff valve. Once the water has been stopped, you need to take steps to fix the problem. Likely your first call will be to a plumber.

Once the source of the water has been addressed, you can then assess the damage. If you were present at the time of the water damage, perhaps you were able to prevent the water from soaking your furniture and belongings by moving them to drier areas. But if the water damaged structural components of your home - flooring, walls, molding/trim, stairs, doors - as well as your belongings, then the mitigation ahead is much larger, and perhaps beyond your abilities to handle.

When in doubt, call in the professionals! Support your local SERVPRO! We are Here to Help® 24/7/365. SERVPRO teams are Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration™ experts!

If you are in the near North and Northwest suburbs of Chicago, the crews of SERVPRO of Glenview may be your nearest mitigation specialists! Call us when you need us and we'll be there to help make it Like It Never Even Happened.

Call 847-832-9300 to speak to a SERVPRO of Glenview team member about your emergency water damage needs.

In the meantime, if you should find yourself dealing with a flood in your home, try to remember these safety tips and action steps.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned - a defensive cleaning program

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let SERVPRO of Glenview help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Glenview today at 847-832-9300 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

What would you do? Knowledge is power!

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

Water leaks in your home, whether from an appliance such as a leaky water heater or from a burst pipe, need to be addressed immediately.

Close your eyes and imagine any one of the following scenarios:

• You were trying to turn off the water but your outdoor spigot handle breaks off. How do you turn off the water now?
• You turned on your dishwasher an hour ago. You've just returned to your kitchen -- and the floor is all wet. Seems a dishwasher supply hose burst. What's the first thing you do?
• You return home only to find that an overhead water pipe in your basement has burst, leaving a wet mess to be cleaned up. Where do you start?
• You've always taken for granted how a toilet flushes when you push the lever. Until one day you push to flush and the pipe collar behind the toilet cracks. Water is spraying everywhere. What now?

These are examples of real customer issues that SERVPRO of Glenview has responded to over the past few years. The different ways and the amount of water damage that can occur is mind-boggling.

When you are present at the moment it happens, what do you do first? If your first instinct is to stop the water, you're correct. But if the spigot handle is broken or the hose or pipe have burst, how do you stop the water?

You have to turn off the water source. You do this by either turning off the nearest water shut-off valve or by turning off the main shut-off valve, the valve that controls the water supply to your entire residence. However, you cannot turn off the valves if you don't know where they are!

Unfortunately, very few homeowners take the time to learn where the emergency shut-off valves are located in their home. Knowing where the valves are located and how to shut them off can save you precious time -- and untold damage -- at crucial moments during a water loss emergency. 

Take the time to educate yourself where these shut-off valves are located. Most homes today have shut off valves in multiple locations, in addition to the main shut-off valve. Check beneath your sinks, behind your toilets, behind the washing machine, and even near your fridge. Chances are, you'll see a shut-off valve there!

Remember, lefty-loosey, righty-tighty! Educate yourself - and others in your household - on how to turn off the water in case of emergency! The sooner you stop the flow, the less chance there is for more severe water damage!

After you turn off the water at the nearest shut-off valve, then you can address the next issue: cleaning up the wet mess! If it's a small mess, certainly it can be cleaned up easily with towels or a wet-vac. But you might need to call in the pros for larger messes - call SERVPRO! And to take care of any burst pipes or broken faucets, be sure to contact your plumber to take care of that.

Being home when an accident happens is one thing, but what happens when you're not there to see it - or to react immediately? One way of preventing unexpected water damage from occurring when you will be away from home for longer periods of time, like a vacation, is to turn off the main shut-off before you leave.

No matter where you are when water damage occurs in your home, minimizing the damage is first priority - for you and for us. Should disaster strike, don't hesitate to call the professionals. Call SERVPRO of Glenview at 847-832-9300.

THANK YOU to Healthcare Workers Everywhere!

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

THANK YOU!!! YOU ROCK!!! The staff and employees of Glenbrook Hospital are welcomed by this awesome banner - and they truly DO rock!

SERVPRO of Glenview would like to recognize the hardworking healthcare workers, not only in our own community, but across the state, across the country, and across the world!

THANK YOU to everyone who is working in the healthcare and medical industries during the current world situation of the COVID-19 pandemic.

These are truly unprecedented times we are living in, and you are all essential workers who work tirelessly in direct contact with the virus on a daily basis.

Thank you to all: nurses, doctors, specialists, surgeons, consultants, practitioners, receptionists, housekeepers, janitors, custodians, clinical assistants, pharmacists, volunteers, residents, interns, police, fire fighters, EMTs, drivers, support providers, patient services personnel, chaplains, and those providing bioremediation cleaning services to keep all hospitals, immediate care centers, providers' offices, walk-in clinics, drive through testing sites, and all associated facilities and vehicles safe and pathogen-free. YOU ROCK!!! None of you is less important than the other. You are all equally vital and essential in this joint fight against COVID-19.

THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO!
You are appreciated! You are essential! You are our hometown heroes!

We are Glenview's Commercial Cleaning Experts

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals are trained in adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

SERVPRO of Glenview is Here to Help your business during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

We Have Specialized Training and Use EPA-Certified Products

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your  business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, computer, tablets, and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

The CDC recommends using a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus (COVID-19), we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

SERVPRO is currently responding to jobs across Glenview and neighboring communities, performing fogging and deep cleaning for viral pathogens. We are providing services for businesses that are requesting proactive cleaning, as well as those that have had possible COVID-19 contamination. 

At SERVPRO, we understand the many questions and concerns our customers are experiencing during this pandemic. We want you to know that we continue to monitor and adhere to all CDC and EPA guidelines with regards to our procedures and cleaning products that we use. We are committed to our customers and our community, and now than more than ever we are here to help. 

If your business needs deep cleaning or sanitation services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Glenview - 847-832-9300.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Happy Birthday to our franchise owner, Jeff Thompson!

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Happy Birthday, Jeff!!!

Happy Birthday to our fearless leader, Jeff!

If you have a moment, please wish Jeff a Happy Birthday via a message or comment on one of our social media channels!

facebook

instagram

LinkedIn

twitter

And if you've been thinking of what might be the perfect gift, head over to Google or Yelp and leave a review! Or maybe recommend us on our facebook page! Jeff loves hearing how SERVPRO of Glenview has helped our friends & neighbors and impacted our community! Thanks for sharing your SERVPRO story with us!

We Are Cleaning Experts

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today to Schedule a Proactive Cleaning!

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO® of Glenview, 847-832-9300

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Water Emergency? Fast Response Time Is CRUCIAL!

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

Water emergency??? DON'T DELAY!!! Call SERVPRO® of Glenview right away! Call 847-832-9300!

24 Hour Emergency Service

Being available 24/7 means we don't adhere to "regular" business hours. Why? Because water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours! SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals provide emergency water restoration services every day of the year, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

Need Emergency Service?
Call SERVPRO® of Glenview NOW: 847-832-9300

A Fast Response Is Crucial in Water Emergencies

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is essential. With over 1,700 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency.

An immediate response helps to minimize the damage, the cleaning, and the restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property as it's absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, your belongings, and more. Our SERVPRO® crew arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.

Water Damage Timeline

Do you know what happens in a water emergency? Say there's an emergency where an extensive amount of water is suddenly everywhere... your sump pump fails during a heavy rain, or your washer hose bursts in the middle of a wash cycle...

Within Minutes:

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall, heavy with the water it absorbed, begins to swell and break down
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish
• Furniture begins to swell and crack
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain
• A musty odor appears

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread, especially in prime conditions
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp
• Metal begins to rust and corrode
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold
• Paint begins to blister
• Wood flooring swells and warps
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically
• Replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive and costly
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants

To minimize the initial water damage, secondary damage, and possible mold damage, you need to call on experts to mitigate the damage. Rest assured you can count on SERVPRO® of Glenview to respond to your emergency call. We are Here to Help!®

847-832-9300

SERVPRO® and Coronavirus (COVID-19) - March 2020

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® professionals are trained in adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards

SERVPRO® of Glenview franchise professionals offer cleaning services including the removal of biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your residential or commercial property back to business.

About Coronavirus

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) is responding to an outbreak of a respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China, and has now spread to over 60 locations internationally (as of this writing), including cases in the United States. The virus known as "coronavirus disease 2019" (abbreviated "COVID-19") is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person or through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes - but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

Scope of Cleanup Protocol

SERVPRO® professionals can perform a PROACTIVE CLEANUP that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection where the customer states there is no active known threat of COVID-19 contamination or exposure. The customer will be required to acknowledge that cleaning and disinfecting will only apply to the current state of the structure and contents. The structure would not be protected from future COVID-19 contamination if an infected person was to enter and occupy the building.

Cleanup and Scope of Work and Planning

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables - at a minimum. These same surfaces are mentioned in the CDC's guidance for commercial spaces as well, including:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving and Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Cleanup and Disinfecting Procedures

Cleanup procedures general include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of waste.

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar type organisms to COVID-19.

SERVPROXIDE™ is SERVPRO's proprietary disinfectant. SERVPROXIDE™ is a hospital-grade disinfectant which has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2 on hard, non-porous surfaces. In addition, SERVPROXIDE™ currently has dozens of EPA-approved claims, notably Feline coronavirus, Canine coronavirus, Staphylococcus (MRSA), E.coli, Salmonella, Rotavirus, Swine flu (H1N1), among others.

Porous surfaces that are not water-sensitive, such as carpet and other fabric material, cannot be disinfected but can be sanitized using SERVPROXIDE™.

Call SERVPRO® of Glenview if you want to schedule your proactive cleaning to clean, disinfect, and sanitize your home or business: 847-832-9300

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/summary.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/transmission.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

SERVPRO® Corporate update for franchise owners re: Proactive Cleaning to Minimize the Transmission of Emerging Viral Pathogens Including Coronavirus (March 3, 2020)

What to Expect When You Call Us

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

When you have a water emergency, SERVPRO® of Glenview is available any time of the day to respond to all jobs, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage and the possibility for mold damage escalates.

Call Today – (847) 832-9300
When we answer the phone, we are ready to help!

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable.  You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO® of Glenview has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration — in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO® Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO® Representative will ask several questions, including:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When the flooding or water damage occurred
• What caused the water damage (if known)
• Whether the source of water has been addressed. For example, if your sump pump failed, we'll need to know if the plumber has been out to fix the pump.
• Whether electricity is available on-site
• We will set a time to come to your home or business, either for immediate response or to inspect and provide and estimate

About SERVPRO® of Glenview

SERVPRO® of Glenview specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke, or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at our corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge and experience to restore your property, Like it never even happened.®

Water damage to your home or business is unplanned, unexpected, and inconvenient. Whether you have a sewage backup, failed sump pump, burst pipe or valve, or an appliance that broke down -- you want the water damage addressed and resolved. Call on SERVPRO® of Glenview to respond to your emergency. We are Here to Help!®

Call us - we're ready to respond when you need us! 847-832-9300

Severe Weather Preparedness

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Preparing a Disaster Supplies Kit is essential to helping you best survive an emergency!

March 1-7, 2020 is Severe Weather Preparedness Week in Illinois.

Being prepared and informed saves lives!

Severe weather is not something we can stop or control. From thunderstorms to lightning, tornadoes to floods, we cannot control when or where they develop or strike. However, there are things we can do to minimize the impact of severe weather.

1. Stay informed! Have various means of being alerted of severe weather in your area! Monitor a weather alert radio. Listen to local radio broadcasts. Watch local TV. Follow NWS (National Weather Service) web pages and apps for updates. Sign up for and receive alerts and notifications from various weather apps on your computer and smart phone. The important thing is to NOT rely on just one method! Even though storm sirens are a great alert system, they are not designed to be heard indoors by everyone.
2. Have an emergency plan! Whether at home, at work, or at school, or when you travel, there should be an emergency evacuation plan in place. Not only should there be a plan - but you should practice your plan too! Designate places to go to seek safe shelter from a tornado or severe thunderstorm. Pick two places to meet, in case the first is not available or accessible - and meet your family, friends, or co-workers there in case you are separated. If you are traveling, know the names of locations you are visiting - and make sure your children know them too.
3. Prepare yourself AND your home for an emergency! Inspect your home for potential hazards (such as weakened tree limbs, worn roofing, cracked windows, improper landscape grading) and address these issues before storms magnify the damage. When you build a new structure or renovate an existing one, there are ways to prevent wind damage to roofs, upper floors, and garages. Rafters, trusses, walls, and doors can all be reinforced. Learn how to react in an emergency: learn how to administer CPR; learn how to use a fire extinguisher; learn how to turn off the electricity, gas, and water supplies in your home.
4. Have an emergency supply kit ready and available! Some storms produce power outages that have the potential to last for several days. Have an emergency hit with at least these following items ready so you are better able to cope with the disaster:
   • Bottled water
   • Non-perishable food
   • Flashlights & extra batteries
   • Extra clothing & blankets
   • An extra set of house keys
   • Cash
   • Medications & personal hygiene items
   • First Aid kit
   • Pet supplies (if applicable)
   • A weather alert radio or portable AM/FM radio
   • A written list of contacts and other information you may need in an emergency, including: personal contacts (family, friends) - phones and addresses, doctors/medical centers, bank account info, credit card account number and provider info, numbers for utility and mortgage accounts and providers, insurance policy info.
   • If your computer, tablet, or mobile device are not accessible, or if the internet is not available, you may not have access to stored contacts and information! Be prepared and have a written list of this information available and ready to take with you in the event of an emergency.
   • If you have children, try to have an updated photo of them printed out. Should your child or children somehow become separated from you, it will ease your mind a little knowing you have a photo to give to emergency personnel (police, fire, medical personnel, EMTs) should they need to search for your child or children. (The same can be said for elderly relatives who may have dementia - have a photo of them in case they become separated from you).

Everything boils down to two words: BE PREPARED!!!

This is what Preparedness Weeks are all about! Learn about what Severe Weather is prevalent in your area, arm yourself with information how best to survive, and prepare yourself!

Why Should Your Business Choose SERVPRO?

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

Should disaster strike, is YOUR business ready? Call SERVPRO® of Glenview to schedule your free assessment and get your Emergency Ready Profile!

As a business owner in Glenview, IL, you know that each day brings with it new challenges. It helps to know that, should a disaster occur, you can trust a company with a 24-hour fast response reputation to remedy the situation. SERVPRO® of Glenview is ideal because:

1. We’re Trusted Professionals

Since 1967, SERVPRO® has been providing customers with quick and reliable restoration and cleanup. With over 1,700 franchises nationwide, we’ve become a trusted industry leader.

2. We’re Knowledgeable and Experienced

Extensive training and certification in fire restoration is provided at the IICRC-approved training facility of SERVPRO® Industries, Inc., headquartered in Gallatin, Tennessee.

3. We’re Preferred by Many

SERVPRO® not only handles residential cleanup but we've also become the trusted choice for commercial clients, much of the insurance industry, and many property management companies.

4. We’re Always Available

SERVPRO® is committed to the restoration, cleanup, and remediation industries, so it’s only logical to be available on a 24-hour basis, 365 days a year. Emergencies are never convenient; they don’t take nights, weekends and holidays off, after all. The more than 10,000 SERVPRO teammates don’t either. We’re always open, so we’ll quickly be on the scene to analyze the damage and begin the cleanup and restoration process.

5. We Have Equipment for Every Job

You can trust SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals to have the right equipment available for every job. More than 140,000 pieces of professional restoration and cleaning equipment are housed in over 5,000,000 square feet of building space.

6. We Offer an Array of Services

No matter what type of commercial facility you may have, SERVPRO® is Here to Help®. Our services include fire, water and storm damage restoration, mold remediation, building cleaning, as well as air duct and HVAC cleaning. We can also handle board-ups, biohazard cleanup, document drying and the cleaning, restoration and deodorization of electronics and artwork.

If your commercial building sustains any type of damage from flooding to fire to mold, you can feel confident hiring SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals with 24-hour availability to get your building back to preloss condition, Like it never even happened.®

Call SERVPRO® of Glenview at 847-832-9300. Our owner, Jeff Thompson, would love to come meet you and see your place of business. We can even offer to prepare a free Emergency Ready Profile for your company. #callSERPVPRO #SERVPROGlenview #call8478329300

Why call SERVPRO?

2/26/2020 (Permalink)

Big or small, damage from fire, storm, or water - we are Here To Help.®

The unexpected and unimaginable happens: your home has sustained water, storm, fire, or smoke damage.

If you've never had to use the services of a restoration and emergency services provider, you likely turn to the internet to search one in your area. We've done the search ourselves - we know you'll have many options to choose from.

So, why should you call SERVPRO® of Glenview?

• As one of over 1,700 individually owned and operated franchises, we have access to more support during harsh weather.
• We are Faster to any size disaster.™
• We work with all major insurance carriers and have relationships with many local providers.
• 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.
• We are locally owned and operated, so we live and work in the same communities you do.
• SERVPRO® is a trusted name in the mitigation and restoration industries.
• We are a Large Loss Provider.
• We are a one-stop-shop that can handle any job from start to finish.
• We love what we do and we want to help you!

If you have questions, need assistance, or would like a free estimate, give us a call: (847) 832-9300. We are available to respond to emergencies 24/7/365.

Moldy Food

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Once bread mold sets in, it spreads quickly and often consumes the whole loaf in a matter of days.

How does mold begin to grow on food?

What turns those leftovers in the back of your fridge from tasty next-day work lunch into a creepy science project? Mold!

Mold is a microscopic fungus - a plant - that is commonly found everywhere on earth... and that includes right here in Glenview We are surrounded by mold spores as they travel through the air looking for a home.

Home, Sweet (Bread), Home

Bread is a very inviting host for traveling mold spore. White bread is made of simple carbohydrates that turn to sugar, which is a very efficient food source for mold. Once a colony gets established, bread mold grows quickly. The best environment for mold growth is cool, damp, and dark, with poor air circulation -- in other words, your refrigerator!

Chill Out

As with other plants, mold has a limited range of circumstances in which it can survive. If temperatures are too cold, such as in the freezer, growth stops. Warm conditions, such as baking in an oven, have the same effect: mold growth stops. But the humid, dark, and still interior of a refrigerator is the perfect place for mold. The best way to prevent mold growth is to eat food while it is still fresh before fridge mold begins to grow.

Useful Mold?

Mold is not always bad. Did you know that it's actually saved lives? How, you ask? Well, everyone has heard about or used penicillin. Did you know that penicillin was first cultured from mold?

Sometimes, mold growth on food is actually needed or desired. Some soft cheeses, such as blue cheese or Roquefort, rely on mold for their distinctive flavor and appearance.

Mold is Everywhere

The next time you open a bag and find that bread mold has set in, remember that mold is everywhere in the air around us. The only way to prevent mold on food is to buy smaller amounts of food more frequently so they can be eaten before mold growth starts. Failing that, you can freeze leftovers instead of refrigerating them.

In the even that you have a more serious mold problem in your home, such as mold growth on drywall or flooring after a flood, then that situation warrants calling in a professional mold remediation service such as SERVPRO® of Glenview. We are Here to Help!® 847-832-9300

Preventing Frozen Pipes

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

Home or business, protect your pipes from freezing!

You can protect your home or business from winter weather by taking these actions suggested by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS). Their winter weather guidance can be found on their site, www.DisasterSafety.org.

Protect Homes or Businesses from Winter Weather: Preventing Frozen Pipes

1. Insulate and seal attic penetrations, such as partition walls, vents, plumbing stacks and electric/mechanical chases; insulate and seal wall cavities as well.

2. insulate pipes most vulnerable to freezing (in attic or in basement) by using pipe insulation.

3. Provide a reliable backup power source to ensure continuous power to your home.

4. Set reasonable temperatures - keep the thermostat at a reasonable temperature, even if you'll be away from home.

5. Install a temperature monitoring system that provides notifications if the building's temperature dips below a pre-determined number.

6. Install an automatic excess flow switch on the main incoming domestic water line to monitor and provide early detection of a broken pipe or valve; use wireless sensors near water sources.

7. Monitor sprinkler systems using a central station to provide early detection of a pipe failure and heat unheated sprinkler control rooms.

8. Let all faucets drip during extreme cold weather to prevent freezing of the water inside the pipe, and if freezing does occur, drips will relieve pressure buildup in the pipes between the ice blockage and the faucet.

9. Keep bathroom and kitchen sink cabinet doors open during cold spells to let warm air circulate around the pipes below the sink.

https://disastersafety.org/winter-weather/protect-your-home-from-severe-winter-weather/

Preventing Ice Dams

1/24/2020 (Permalink)

Don't wait til it's too late to prevent ice dams - but if you get water damage, be sure to call on SERVPRO® of Glenview!

Winter weather can wreak havoc on a home. For instance, snow or ice-covered walkways and driveways can become a hazard for people if they are not cleared right away. For the safety of your family, pets, and vehicles, we're sure you clear the snow from all areas and perhaps put down salt to melt the ice.

Just as you clear snow and ice from the walking paths around your home in the winter, homeowners need to remember to look up and check your roof as well!

Not only can the weight of accumulated snow or ice on your roof become a hazard when not cleared, but it can lead to the buildup of ice dams. Why is that a bad thing? Ice dams can cause water to leak into your home, potentially causing damage to everything from the exterior walls and roof to the interior walls, ceilings, and even structural components like joists or studs. Water leaking into your home could also damage your personal belongings. Additionally, water damage left unresolved could lead to mold, which is something no homeowner wants to deal with.

Read below for tips on preventing ice dams. If you missed our post on preventing roof damage, you can read it here: http://bit.ly/SPGV20200121 

Protect Homes from Winter Weather: Preventing Ice Dams

1. Keep roof drainage systems clear! This means keeping all drains, gutters, and downspouts free of debris and vegetation that may restrict proper flow.
2. Consider heat sources - remove or relocate heat sources that are installed in open attic areas directly under the roof.
3. Insulate light fixtures in the ceiling below an unheated attic space.
4. Insulate attic penetrations: if you have penetrations into the attic, such as vents, seal and insulate them so that daylight cannot be seen and airflow is minimal.
5. Install heating cables on eaves, gutters, and downspouts or around roof drains on flat roofs. This will not remove an existing ice dam, but will create effective channels that allow water to drain off safely.
https://disastersafety.org/winter-weather/protect-your-home-from-ice-dams/

Protect Homes from Winter Weather: Preventing Roof Damage

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

How much snow on your roof is too much?

They say "knowledge is power." This is so true when it comes to homeownership!

Don't wait until winter weather has hit your hometown in full force to begin arming yourself with knowledge! Knowing what to do, what not to do, and when to do it are key pieces of information to have in any situation. With winter weather either already here and more snow and ice on the way, here are some tips for homeowners. Know what it takes to prevent roof damage from snow and ice.

1. Evaluate your risk! Melting snow tends to more quickly run off steep sloped roofs with slopes greater than 3" of slope in 12" of horizontal distance (3/12 pitch or greater), particularly the steeper ones that are typically found on houses in northern climates. Ice and snow tend to more readily accumulate on low slope and flat roofs over porches or parts of a home that are next to a taller section of the house, expecially during high winds.
2. Estimate how much weight your roof can support! Unless the roof structure is damaged or decayed, most residential roofs regardless of the location of the house should be able to support 20 pounds per square foot of snow before they become stressed. If you live in an area known for lots of snow, we recommend checking with your building department to find out of higher loads were used at the time your home was built, to see if your roof may be able to resister a greater depth of snow.
3. Estimate how much the snow on your roof weighs! Here are some general snow weight guidelines:
- Fresh snow: 10"-12: of new snow is equal to 1" of water, or about 5 pounds per square foot of roof space; so you could potentially have up to 4 feet of fresh snow before the roof will become stressed.
- Packed snow: 3"-5" of old snow is equal to 1" of water (5 lb/sq.ft. of roof space), so anything more than 2 feet of old snow could be too much for your roof to handle.
- Ice: 1" of ice equals 1 foot of fresh snow, or 1" of ice is equal to 1" of water, or about 5 pounds per square foot of roof space.
- Total accumulated weight: 2 feet of old snow and 2 feet of new snow could weigh as much as 60 pounds per square foot of roof space, which is triple the typical snow load capacity of most roofs!
4. Remove the snow from your roof! If the loads you estimate based on the thickness of various types of snow and ice exceed 20-25 pounds per square foot, you should consider removing snow from your roof. For safe removal that won't endanger you or damage your roof, hire a snow removal contractor who can safely remove the snow and ice.

These tips come courtesy of the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety.

If your home suffers damage from snow or ice on the roof which leads to water damage inside the structure, call on SERVPRO® of Glenview to come clean up the wet mess. 847-832-9300

Happy New Year!

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

From our SERVPRO® family to yours, Happy New Year!

SERVPRO® of Glenview would like to wish everyone a very Happy New Year!

Here's looking forward to a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2020!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

12/25/2019 (Permalink)

Merry Christmas!

From our home to yours, SERVPRO® of Glenview wishes a very Merry Christmas to all our family, friends, customers, and vendors!

#merrychristmas #happyholidays #warmestholidaywishes #seasonsgreetings #SERVPROglenview

Happy Hanukkah!

12/24/2019 (Permalink)

Happy Hanukkah!

Warmest wishes from SERVPRO® of Glenview for a Happy Hanukkah and Happy New Year!

Holiday Decorations and Fire Safety

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

"Put the Winter Freeze on Holiday Fires", presented by the US Fire Administration (USFA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

Be fire smart this December by taking precautions as you decorate your home for the holidays!

Residential fire damage in the winter months most commonly occurs because fire safety was ignored - either with holiday decorations throughout the home, or with cooking in the kitchen.

We've recently blogged about "Fire Safety During the Holidays" because Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and Christmas Eve rank as the top three peak days when firefighters respond to home cooking fires. To read more about home cooking fire safety, read this blog post: http://bit.ly/191125blog

In this post, we'd like to remind folks how to be fire smart when decking out your home for the holidays. Be aware of any fire dangers that may be present during this time, specifically looking at your Christmas tree, your holiday decorations, and your home.

Your Christmas tree should bring joy and happiness to your home during the holidays; it should not be the cause of disaster or fire. These guidelines apply if you have an artificial tree, but additional precautions must be taken if you have a live tree.

• Never let your live tree dry out! Always keep it watered!
• Make sure your tree is at least 3ft away from any heat source
• Make sure your tree is not blocking an exit
• NEVER use or light candles on your tree!
• Inspect the lights you use to decorate your tree. 1 in every 4 home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.
• Lastly, dispose of your live tree as soon as it begins to dry out

Holiday decorations come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and are used both indoors and outside. Be smart about choosing your holiday decorations, as well as where you place them.

• Choose flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations whenever possible
• Use only UL approved, outdoor-rated lights when decorating the outdoors
• Use appropriate means of hanging your lights; for instance, use plastic clips, not metal nails
• Keep decorations away from windows and doors which are opened and closed frequently
• Be sure you don't overload your electrical circuit or connect too many strings of lights
• Replace damaged, worn, or old strings of lights and decorations. If possible, replace them with LED strings, as these pose less of a fire hazard.

Take a look around your home as you prepare to entertain guests during the holidays. There may be fire hazards you overlook simply because you live there and don't "see" them. More than half of home decoration fires in December are started by candles, so pay close attention to candles in your home!

• Keep candles and melted wax warmers out of reach of small children and pets.
• When candles are lit, ensure they are not near any flammable objects, such as decorations, curtains, or greeting cards.
• Ask smokers to smoke outside; provide deep ashtrays with a bit of water so butts can be extinguished before guests return indoors.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop. Keep a watchful eye in case someone lays an oven mitt or dishtowel near the stove where it may catch fire.
• Test your smoke alarms before guests arrive and have a fire extinguisher accessible to the kitchen (and fireplace, if you will be using one).
• Blow out all candles and turn off all lights and decorations, both indoor and outdoor, before you go to bed.

The National Fire Prevention Association works to educate the public about potential fire risks during the holidays, offering tip sheets, videos, and other resources. Learn more by visiting their website: http://bit.ly/2DXIx5Q

If the unthinkable should happen and you have a fire in your home during the holidays, know that you can call on SERVPRO® of Glenview to help clean up the fire and smoke damage. We are available 24/7/365 - call us at 847-832-9300.

#SERVPRO #SERVPROGlenview #firedamage #smokedamage #firesafetytips #cookingfire #nfpasafetytips #firesafety #homefire #nationalfireprotectionassociation #holidaysafety #homefiresduringtheholidays

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

11/28/2019 (Permalink)

Today, we count our blessings.

On this day of thanks, the team at SERVPRO® of Glenview would like to wish our customers, clients, community members, and vendors a very Happy Thanksgiving!

As we take a moment to contemplate all we are thankful for, we count our blessings.

SERVPRO® of Glenview has been operating under new owner, Jeff Thompson, since October 2017. We are thankful for the loyal members of our team: Production Manager, Saul Perez; Office Manager, Suzie Koivun; and Production Technician, Tony Hernandez. We are each blessed with a wonderful family and we are grateful that they understand that at times our jobs with SERVPRO® call us away from our time with them.

We are thankful for continued growth in the Glenview/Northbrook communities. We are grateful for the dedicated service of our local first responders, fire fighters, police, and emergency personnel.

We are pleased to work with the Glenview Chamber of Commerce, with whom we have the opportunity to support the town throughout the year during many local events.

We are grateful for our customers who call on us, depend on us, and trust us to provide them with cleanup and restoration services following fire, smoke, or water damage at their home or residence. We know the situation is stressful and aggravating and we appreciate that our customers count on us to get the job done.

Thank you for choosing SERVPRO® of Glenview for your Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration™ needs. We are always Here to Help.® 

Call our office at 847-832-9300 if you should need our services at your home or business.

Fire Safety During the Holidays

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires. Practice fire safety

Did you know Thanksgiving Day is the peak day for home cooking fires?

Over the five years between 2013 and 2017, US Fire Departments responded to an estimated average of 173,200 home structure fires each year started by cooking activities, which averages about 470 home cooking fires per day.

However, on Thanksgiving Day, fire departments responded to an estimated 1,600 fires caused by home cooking activities!

Thanksgiving Day is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed closely by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve. Unattended cooking is by far the leading contributing factor in cooking fires and fire deaths, according to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association).

Each year, fires cause an average of 550 civilian deaths, 5,020 reported civilian fire injuries, and over $1.2 Billion in direct property damage. Ranges or cooktops were involved in 62% of reported home cooking fires, in 89% of cooking fire deaths, and ini 79% of cooking fire injuries.

In most homes, the kitchen is the heart of the home and that is no different during the holidays. Young and old alike, family members gather in or near the kitchen during holiday meal preparations. As the activity and number of people increase in your home, especially in your kitchen, it is important to practice fire safety at all times.

Check out this NFPA page which provides not only the Top 10 Safety Tips for Thanksgiving Day, but also has great reminders for Cooking Safety  (available to read online or to download and print).

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Seasonal-fire-causes/Thanksgiving

If the unthinkable should happen and you have a cooking fire in your home, know that you can call on SERVPRO® of Glenview to help clean up the fire and smoke damage. We are available 24/7/365 - call our office at 847-832-9300.

#SERVPRO #SERVPROGlenview #firedamage #smokedamage #cookingsafety #safetytips #thanksgivingdayfire #cookingfire #nationalfireprotectionassociation #nfpasafetytips #firesafety #homefire #homefireinjuries #homefiredeaths #holidaysafety

Mold damage and foul odors

11/17/2019 (Permalink)

Storms can wreak havoc on your home or business. If you're trying to cleanup flood damage, call SERVPRO of Glenview. We're Here to Help®! 847-832-9300

There are a number of ways that your home or business can sustain damage after a storm. The storm itself can wreak havoc with strong winds and flying debris, but most often, it is the flood damage that causes most damage. In the aftermath, the storm damage must be removed as possible to avoid permanent damage to the structure, as well as avoiding mold infestation and the resultant foul odors.

Why SERVPRO?

When a severe water loss occurs in your home or business, time is of the essence to cleanup the damage. It is crucial to utilize a professional restoration service with local, certified technicians. Groundwater may contain contaminants; before coming into contact with it during flood damage cleanup, our SERVPRO technicians test the water to determine what they are dealing with so they choose the best methods for mitigation. Our SERVPRO team members work hard to assist Glenview neighbors and community members in limiting loss from floodwater by using their extensive training and state-of-the-art equipment.

Complete Drying Limits Odor

Controlled demolition is a standard action during flood damage cleanup. This type of removal of building materials is exacting because our SERVPRO crew only takes out the damaged materials while leaving behind the sheetrock and flooring which were unaffected by water loss. The removal of buckled or warped sheetrock allows for more airflow during drying, which not only inhibits mold growth but also diminishes odors in the home.

Odors May Indicate Mold

Mold has a tell-tale musty odor that gives away its presence. Technicians monitor water loss areas during and after the drying process to ensure that the air quality is well below sustainable levels for mold, as mold requires warmth over 70°F and high humidity levels to flourish. Areas where our crew finds mold growing are abated and treated with antimicrobial sealants to inhibit any return.

Removal of Residual Water Odors

After flooding occurs and after the complete drying process, sometimes there are residual water odors left behind. When antibacterial solutions do not eliminate the odors, SERVPRO technicians have a diverse array of odor neutralizing applications to use until they eradicate the odor from the property.

You do not have to live with odors continually reminding you of the flood damage that occurred to your home or business. Contact SERVPRO of Glenview at 847-832-9300 and our team of certified professionals can work to make the water loss and odor in your home "Like it never even happened."

Brrr! It's COLD! Be smart about using space heaters!

11/12/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Glenview at 847-832-9300

Fire does not follow a schedule, it doesn't care what season it is or whether it's cold outside. Fires are extremely common in the winter, because folks are trying hard to stay warm.

As we begin this winter season, SERVPRO of Glenview would like to provide you with some tips to avoid having to deal with the destructive aftermath of fire damage.

Our technicians understand that accidents happen. Using the wrong type of heater in a particular area can cause severe problems, as can placing space heaters too close to other objects.  To avoid setting up factors in your home which could lead to fire, consider the type and location of heater you purchase to use in your home.

Electric heaters are the most popular type of heaters customers purchase and they are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Electric space heaters can be useful in many areas of your home; however, they should never be left unattended. Thinking of electric heaters as giant toasters can help you understand how important it is to keep a constant eye on them. Make sure you have sufficient wattage to run the heating device without tripping the circuit. Always plug the heater directly into an outlet - NEVER use an extension cord. Also - never use an electric heater in a wet or moist environment, such as your bathroom.

Oil heaters should be used where there is the possibility of moisture. This eliminates any electrical hazards that may be present due to water conductivity. Always keep a safe distance once the heater is running to avoid contact burns.

SERVPRO gets an incredible number of calls relating space heaters every winter. People are trying to stay warm and use heaters as their source of heat. However, using a space heater does not need to cause so many problems during a cold spell. Use common sense and always follow the directions of the manufacturer.

Our professional technicians have the following simple guidelines to follow when operating your space heater:

1. Always place space heaters on a dry, flat, solid surface for stabilization. Do not place on thick carpeting or other flammable surface.
2. Purchase heaters with an automatic shut-off feature to prevent dangers which may occur from tipping.
3. Maintain proper spacing between heaters and other objects in your home. Pay very close attention to the proximity between the heater and soft, flammable objects such as furniture including couches, chairs, beds, bedding, blankets, pillows, clothing, and even pet peds.
4. Never leave children or pets unsupervised around operating heaters.
5. Shut your heaters off properly before leaving your home or going to sleep. If you must use a heater at night, set it on a timer to turn off after a short time.

Following these guidelines does not guarantee that you will never have to deal with fire damage from space heaters. However, you are much less likely to have such a destructive an unwanted consequence. If this sort of incident still strikes your home or business this winter season, make the call to our office immediately. We will respond quickly and provide you with the services you need to get your life back to normal fast.

Call SERVPRO of Glenview at 847-832-9300

SERVPRO® of Glenview, at your service!

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Jeff Thompson, owner of SERVPRO® of Glenview

SERVPRO® of Glenview, at your service!

Why should you call SERVPRO® of Glenview for your Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration™ needs?

Take a peek into our franchise to see who we are!

As leading water and fire damage restoration specialists, we pride ourselves on being locally owned and operated. As part of a nationally recognized and accredited company, we know our team is trained by and backed by one of the biggest leaders in the fire and water damage restoration industry. For each of our assignments, our professional crew brings not only knowledge and experience, but also the latest and most-up-to-date equipment as well.

When fire and water take control of your life, call on SERVPRO® of Glenview to help you take it back. We are Here to Help®, 24/7/365.

To learn more about who we are and the services we offer, visit our website at www.SERVPROglenview.com

Call our office to schedule your appointment: 847-832-9300

SERVPRO® of Glenview provides Commercial Services

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Glenview is locally owned and operated. Call us 24/7 for your water or fire cleanup and restoration needs.

SERVPRO® of Glenview would like to take this opportunity to remind the businesses of our community that we provide 24-hour emergency services. We are dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in the local areas of Glenview, Northbrook, Winnetka, Niles, Des Plaines, Northfield, and Wilmette.

We can respond immediately to your emergency to provide water/storm damage restoration or fire damage restoration to your commercial property.

In addition to being locally owned and operated, SERVPRO® of Glenview is a trusted leader in the restoration industry. Our highly trained technicians not only use advanced restoration and cleaning equipment, but they have the training and expertise to respond to your emergency to help get your business back on track.

Learn more about our Commercial Services on our website, or call our office at 847-832-9300.

Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity; our team understands that there's never a "convenient time" for your commercial property to sustain water or fire damage. When you have need for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, call on SERVPRO® of Glenview.

If an emergency should happen, is your business ready?

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

It is estimated that up to 50% of businesses never reopen after they have been closed due to a disaster, such as a fire or flood.

But did you know... of the businesses that do survive and reopen post-disaster, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.

A key component for making it through any size disaster is preparation. Whether your commercial property experiences a small water leak, a large fire, or an area-wide flood, the best time to plan for such events is well before they actually happen!

This is where SERVPRO® of Glenview comes in! We can help your business be prepared by developing your personalized Emergency READY Profile: a quick reference of important building and contact information that serves as an ideal supplement to your existing contingency program.

SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and can quickly help get your commercial property back in working order, because every hour lost cleaning and restoring your property is an hour of lost revenue.

Call SERVPRO® of Glenview to schedule our no-cost visit to assess your business or commercial property, where we can help develop your Emergency READY Profile. Benefit from our 40+ years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disasters.

Winterizing Your Vehicle

11/2/2019 (Permalink)

Don't be caught unprepared! Take precautions now to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter!

We barely flipped the calendar over to November, and winter weather has already arrived here in the areas served by SERVPRO of Glenview.

Don't be caught unprepared! Take the time to get your vehicle tuned up and ready for winter!

If you aren't comfortable doing so yourself, then make sure a mechanic checks the following items on each of your vehicles:

• battery is running and in good condition;
• there is plentiful antifreeze and the vehicle does not need a coolant flush;
• brakes are good and aren't showing wear and tear;
• the tires are properly inflated, have good treads, and are capable of handling the increased stopping distances on slippery roads. Consider getting dedicated winter tires;
• the oil and oil filter have been replaced recently;
• the windshield wipers are functioning and can adequately clear your windshield of rain, snow, slush, or ice;
• the windshield fluid reservoir has been topped off;
• the heater and defroster are working properly;
• all lights have been checked and have working bulbs: headlights, brake lights, emergency flashers, and turn signals.

In addition to keeping your fuel tank as full as possible to avoid frozen fuel lines, consider keeping the following emergency supplies available in your vehicle:

• windshield brush and ice scraper
• small shovel
• battery-powered flashlight
• battery-powered radio
• extra batteries (for flashlight and radio)
• booster/jumper cables
• emergency flares
• first aid kit
• non-perishable snacks
• extra hats, gloves, jackets, socks, or other warm clothing
• a spare pair of boots
• blanket
• matches
• phone-charging cable
• card with phone numbers for your close family members or friends, in case your phone dies and you need to call them

You may want to keep a portable power bank on your person, as leaving such an item in your vehicle in frigid temperatures is not advised. A portable power bank can be used to power your phone in a situation where your vehicle may be dead and would not be capable of charging your phone. There are even portable power banks which are capable of jump-starting your vehicle for about $100, which may be something you consider investing in.

We hope this serves as a handy reminder for our customers and helps everyone be better prepared for the winter and successfully maneuvering through a winter emergency in your vehicle.

Remember: if you have a water or storm related emergency at your home, call SERVPRO® of Glenview at 847-832-9300. We're your local cleanup and restoration specialists.

Happy Halloween!

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Happy Halloween from SERVPRO® of Glenview!

SERVPRO of Glenview? wishes everyone a Happy Halloween!

To all our boos and ghouls - stay safe, keep warm, and have fun!

Show us your costumes by sharing a photo on our facebook page!

Here are a few reminders on Halloween night safety:

- Glenview community trick-or-treat hours are 3:00pm til 7:00pm

- Drivers: Please use extreme caution when driving down neighborhood side streets! Young children are excited and may run ahead of their parents or guardians; that means they might run into the street without looking for cars. Drive safely!

- Trick-or-treaters: Make yourself visible to others, including drivers, by carrying a lit flashlight, wearing a glow stick, or dressing in light-colored costumes.

- Safety in numbers: Traveling in a group makes you more visible to drivers. It's also more fun to trick-or-treat with friends!

- Moms and dads: As always, check the candy and treats for evidence of tampering. Toss any opened or unwrapped candy. And don't forget to collect your "Awesome Parenting" tax by snagging some of your favorite candies before approving the treats fit for consumption by your little monsters!

- No matter how creepy or spooky your costume, you don't want your teeth to be gross and ugly once Halloween is over! After you eat your fill of Halloween candy, don't forget to brush your teeth before going to bed!

#HappyHalloween #trickortreat #halloweengoodies #costumes #halloweencandy #staysafe #SERVPROGlenview #Glenview

National Fire Prevention Week: Oct 6-12, 2019

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

A photo showing the intersection of State and Madison Streets in which the utter destruction of the Great Chicago Fire can be seen.

Every year, the second week of October is designated as National Fire Prevention Week, observed in the United States and Canada. This year, Fire Prevention Week is October 6th - 12th. On October 9th, 1920, President Woodrow Wilson issued the first National Fire Prevention Day proclamation. Since 1922, Fire Prevention Week has been observed on the Sunday through Saturday week in which October 9th falls. Beginning with President Calvin Coolidge in 1925, the U.S. President has signed a proclamation proclaiming a national observance during that week. Do you know why this week was chosen? It commemorates the Great Chicago Fire that burned from late in the evening of October 8th through October 10th, 1871. This fire destroyed roughly 3.3 square miles (2,124 acres) of the city of Chicago, claimed approximately 300 lives, and eliminated hundreds of businesses. More than 17,000 structures were destroyed and damages were estimated at close to $200 million (the equivalent of $3.77 Billion in 2016!). Nearly one-third of the city lay in ruins after the fire, and more than 100,000 residents were left without homes - fully one-third of the city's population of the time. This fire came to be known as the Great Chicago Fire and it remains the most famous and known fire in American history.

While the tragedy of the Great Chicago Fire stands as a great reminder of the importance of fire safety, few people know there were many other wildfires and brush fires that dry and drought-ridden second week of October 1871 in the Upper Midwest that caused great loss to both lives and property. The same day the fire in Chicago began, a fire broke out in upper northeast Wisconsin. America's most devastating forest fire scorched over 1.2 million acres of land. Sixteen towns were destroyed, the most damaged being Peshtigo, giving its name to this fire. The town of Peshtigo was consumed in an hour, with the fire claiming the lives of over 800 residents. 

The damage estimate was at $169 million, nearly matching the cost of damage in Chicago. But the Peshtigo Fire claimed nearly four times the number of people than perished in Chicago. A Report to the Wisconsin Legislature in 1873 listed 1,182 names of deceased or missing residents following the Peshtigo Fire; in 1870, the town of Peshtigo had 1,749 residents. With deaths across the fire-damaged areas estimated between 1,500 and 2,500, the Peshtigo fire was the most costly fire of that week in terms of loss of lives, and it remains to this day as the deadliest fire in American history. Since local records were destroyed in the fire, an accurate death toll has never been determined. We are thankful to live in a time where we are not only taught fire safety and situational awareness, but we are better prepared to prevent or control such tragic and complete fire damage. If your home or business is damaged by fire, call SERVPRO® to help take back control of your life. We are available and ready to answer your call 24/7/365. Call us at (847) 832-9300. #GreatChicagoFire #PeshtigoFire #FireSafety #FireDamage #FireAwareness #SmokeDamage #SERVPRO #CleanupAndRestoration For more information, visit: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/ARCHIVED/Fire-Prevention-Week-old/About-Fire-Prevention-Week

We are hosting a Thank You party for our communities' First Responders

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

We invite our communities' first responders to join us for a #BearsvPackers watch party!

SERVPRO® of Glenview is proud to serve the local communities of Glenview, Northbrook, Des Plaines, Park Ridge, Niles, Morton Grove, Northfield, Golf, and Wilmette. Also serving these communities are many first responders, always at the ready.

We would like to thank these first responders for their tireless service to our communities by hosting a Football Watch Party for them at our facility at 1510 Paddock Drive in Northbrook.

We are honored to welcome first responders and their families to join us to watch the Chicago Bears host the Green Bay Packers to kickoff the 2019 NFL Football Season!

We invite first responders and families to join us on Thursday, September 5th for snacks and beverages, beginning at 6:00pm.

We are happy to announce that food and beverages will be provided by Lou Malnati's, Forza Meats, and Ten Ninety Brewing Co., so bring your appetites!

We will have giveaways for all guests and we're excited to be raffling off sports memorabilia from Chicago teams including the Bears, the Cubs, and the Blackhawks!

All first responders are eligible for a raffle drawing for a chance to win a 50" LG TV!

Bears v Packers kickoff time is at 7:20p - come join us to watch the game on our big screen!

First responders are encouraged to please RSVP by Sept 3rd by calling 847-832-9300 or email Suzie.Koivun@SERVPROglenview.com 

SERVPRO of Glenview is Hiring!

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Glenview is currently hiring Production and Cleaning Technicians.

Primary Role: Respond to service calls as needed. Perform services as assigned, following SERVPRO® Production Guidelines. Communicate with crew chief and/or production manager to make sure all customer needs are met. Support crew chief and other production personnel, as needed. Clean and maintain vehicles, equipment, warehouse, and office areas, as needed.

Expectations: Production processes are performed according to SERVPRO® Production Guidelines and work orders. Communications to crew chief (or production manager) and customers are timely and accurate. Jobs are completed at or beyond customer expectations. Vehicles, equipment, and facilities remain clean, orderly, and in proper working order.

Requirements for our Technicians include but are not limited to:

• Must place high priority on customer satisfaction
• Must have valid driver's license with a reasonable driving record
• Must have a professional appearance and a great work attitude
• Able to pass a criminal background check with no felony convictions or misdemeanors involving violence or theft
• Must be able to pass a drug test
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs
• Must have high school diploma or a GED certificate
• We provide 24-hour emergency services, so we require that our technicians be willing to work on call as needed. Some night and weekend work may be required.

Please call 847-832-9300 for more information or email your resume to suzie.koivun@SERVPROglenview.com 

Forewarned is Forearmed!

7/24/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage??? No problem! We are #HereToHelp!

Everyone has heard the proverb "Forewarned is forearmed" - which is just another way of saying that having prior knowledge of possible dangers or problems gives one a tactical advantage. Or put another way, being armed with information gives you the best chance of having a more positive outcome in a dangerous situation. We at SERVPRO® of Glenview would like to help you out - by arming you with information!

Summer storms are making grand appearances across the Midwest and here in our local area, several of the recent storms have caused damage. Among the more common types of damage severe storms can cause is flood damage. In homes, flooded basements can occur when the sump pump fails or breaks down.

Knowing what one should - and should not - do in this situation can help you best remain in control when storms cause water damage to your home.

Clean water damage is typically what most residents experience when their sump pump fails, because the water that floods their basement or lower level is "clean" - it is storm run-off water, as opposed to "dirty" water (sewage or waste water).

If you experience clean water flooding in your home, try to do the following as soon as possible, to minimize the water damage:

- Turn off circuit breakers for the wet areas, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.

- If you are able, remove water using a water vacuum (shop-vac) or pump and hose. Never use your household vacuum cleaner!

- Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.

- Clear lamps and tabletop items so you can wipe excess water from wood furniture.

- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and carpeting or wet floor.

- Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.

- Remove valuables to a safe, dry place; items such as paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other materials which are sensitive to moisture should be removed from wet areas and begin drying as soon as possible to minimize damage.

- Lift draperies with coated hangers so they hang above wet carpeting or floors.

- Area rugs should be removed to a suitable drying area.

- Installed carpeting may need to be pulled up to remove a wet and damaged pad (which will need to be replaced). Depending on severity of water damage and length of time before any water removal is begun, it may also be necessary to remove and replace installed carpeting.

- Finished areas should be closely observed to monitor whether drywall, baseboards, and insulation in the walls has sustained any water damage. Not addressing water damaged walls can lead to serious and extensive mold damage, which is expensive to remove and possibly not covered by insurance!

When your home sustains clean water damage, it is also important to remember this list of dont's:

- Don't enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.

- Don't enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water.

- Never use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, as this can possibly cause electrical shock or even damage the vacuum cleaner.

- Don't use TVs or other electrical appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.

- Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. Don't enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water - this sort of damage control is best done by professionals.

- Don't leave Oriental rugs or other colored area rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets, as they can cause staining.

- Don't leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors, as they can cause staining.

- Don't leave cardboard boxes on wet floors or carpets as they will continue to absorb water.

A failed or broken sump pump during a severe storm can be the reason a basement floods, with 3" to 6" (or more!) of standing water not being uncommon. If you are able to take any of the above measures to help minimize clean water damage, then you are taking steps in the right direction.

If you are unable to address on your own any of the above issues - or possibly even others not mentioned, please don't hesitate to call SERVPRO® of Glenview at (847) 832-9300. As your local independently owned and operated Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration™ experts, we are always Here to Help®!

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

Find and like us on social media! We're on facebook and instagram!

Enter to win SERVPRO of Glenview's Raffle!

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Be on the lookout for "Jeff" at Glenview's Summer Fest! Post your selfie with "Jeff" and you can win $100!

On Saturday, June 29th, the Glenview Chamber of Commerce is hosting their annual Glenview Summer Fest! Join us for a fun-filled day at Jackman Park, located at 1930 Prairie Street in Glenview, from 9:00am til 3:30pm.

Our #SERVPROStormTroopers will be in attendance at this fun annual event! Be sure to stop by to get your picture taken with our StormTroopers!

The team at SERVPRO of Glenview is excited to announce that we will be holding a Summer Fest Raffle for a $100 Visa GiftCard!

Sadly, our fearless leader, Jeff Thompson, will not be at this year's Summer Fest because he will be attending SERVPRO's 50th Annual Convention, being held in Sacramento, CA.

But no worries... In his absence, we will have a life-sized cutout of Jeff at Summer Fest!

TO ENTER THE DRAWING for the $100 Visa GiftCard, you have to:

1. Go to Summer Fest and FIND "Jeff" - not the real Jeff, the "Jeff" cutout
2. Take a selfie with "Jeff"
3. Here's the biggie: Post the selfie on your social media and TAG SERVPRO of Glenview in your post (see tags provided below)
4. Make sure you Like or Follow SERVPRO of Glenview on your favorite social media

After Jeff returns from California and gets up to date on what he missed at the office, on Wednesday, July 3rd, we will have a facebook Live Video to announce the raffle winner of the $100 Visa GiftCard!

Watch our facebook feed - we'll announce the time of our video that morning. Be sure to tune in! If our winner is online and watching our video, we may invite you to appear on screen with us!

Remember, to qualify for the raffle, you have to Like/Follow our page, post your selfie on your favorite social media page, and don't forget to tag us in it!

Facebook: TAG BOTH @SERVPROGlenview AND Jeff Thompson (Owner Operator at SERVPRO of Glenview)

Instagram: @SERVPRO_of_Glenview

Twitter: @SERVPROGlenview (Jeff Thompson)

Look for our upcoming community events on the Events tab on our facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROGlenview

Raffle details: A winner will be chosen on July 3, 2019, at random from all entries made on social media that meet the criteria listed above. Selfie must be posted by July 2, 2019, 11:59pm. Each entrant can have One (1) entry per social media platform where SERVPRO of Glenview has a presence: facebook, twitter, instagram. Multiple selfies posted to one social media platform do not qualify as multiple entries. Odds of winning are dependent on the total number of entries across all three social media platforms. Cash value of the prize is US $100. Winner will be contacted through the social media used for their entry. Winner can pick up their prize at our office or request to have it mailed to them. By entering our contest, Winner consents to allow SERVPRO of Glenview to use their name, likeness, and/or social media profile link when announcing the result of our Summer Fest Raffle. Winner's information will be shared on SERVPRO of Glenview's social media pages and website. Thank you for participating! Good luck!

"When thunder roars, go indoors!"

6/26/2019 (Permalink)

Lightning Safety Tips - Remember these tips on staying safe indoors during a storm that has lightning presence or potential!

This last week of June is National Lightning Safety Awareness Week. If you follow our facebook page, then you've seen our posts this week about this annual effort to bring awareness to lightning safety.

There are quite a few reputable sources online where you can find information about lightning safety and what you can do in your home, your business, or your community to foster an awareness of the potential for storm damage. It's best not to be caught unaware, so educating yourself and others is key in preventing or minimizing any possible storm damage.

Check out these great websites that have helpful information on lightning safety:

• National Lightning Safety Council
• National Weather Service
• Lightning Protection Institute
• Earth Networks
• National Severe Storms Laboratory

This graphic from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration summarizes what to do when you hear the thunder of an approaching storm.

"When thunder roars, go indoors!"

While this is excellent advice because you are significantly safer indoors during a thunderstorm than you are outdoors, you are still not immune to lightning danger.

Since lightning can strike and travel through different channels that could still reach you indoors, here are some tips to keep your risks to a minimum.

- Do not use corded telephones or other plugged-in appliances! This includes electrical equipment such as computers, TVs, and kitchen appliances like your microwave. Using your cell phone is safe - so long as it is not being charged while you're using it!
- If you are going to unplug any electrical devices to protect them against possible power surges, be sure to unplug them before the storm begins! You don't want to be touching those electrical cords when there is a danger of lightning striking!
- Avoid plumbing, as both water and metal plumbing can conduct electricity from a lightning strike. Take your shower, do your laundry, or wash dishes after the storm has passed.
- Stay away from windows and doors, as they can have small cracks in the frames that could allow lightning in.
- It should go without saying that if you are seeking safety and shelter indoors, you should avoid going out on to porches or balconies.
- Refrain from touching concrete surfaces such as the walls or flooring of your basement or garage - lightning can travel through the metal wires or bars which are used in concrete construction.
- Protect your pets! If you have pets outdoors, bring them inside with you when you seek shelter from the storm.

Remember the 30/30 Rule: If there is less than 30 seconds between a flash of lightning and the sound of thunder, you should seek shelter. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder before leaving shelter if you must go outdoors.

Discuss storm safety and the dangers of lightning with your family so everyone is aware of what to do - and not to do - during a storm. #NationalLightningSafetyAwarenessWeek is a great time to remind everyone of storm safety.

SERVPRO of Glenview wants everyone to be safe during a storm, but if your home suffers #stormdamage, remember that we are #HereToHelp. If you need our fire & water cleanup & restoration services, call 847-832-9300 or visit us online at www.SERVPROglenview.com.

Spring Showers ruining your hard wood floors?

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

This flooded kitchen was caused by recent heavy rains.

Heavy spring rains flooded a customer's home in Glenview causing the wood floors to buckle.

SERVPRO uses a system called Inject-a-dry to suck all the water up from the wood floors leaving it "Like it never even happened." 

SERVPRO of Glenview was called in to do the water mitigation for this family to save their hard wood floors from ruin.  The customers were so grateful that they referred us to all of their friends and family!

Water damage to your home? No worries!

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Glenview is here to help with any water damage you may incur. From extreme rains to pipe breaks. We've got you covered!

SERVPRO is here to help 24/7! Call us for all your water and fire damage needs!

Tornado Preparedness.

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

1,200 tornadoes on average hit the U.S. Will you be ready when one hits your town? Call SERVPRO of Glenview for your storm damage needs!

Some things you should know about tornadoes:

1. Most move southwest to southeast, however, some change direction or even back track. 

2. Tornadoes do not only appear as funnel clouds.

3. Tornadoes can accompany tropical storms and hurricanes once on land.

Spring Cleaning Tips!

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Do it yourself cleaners keep your home sparkly clean and smelling fantastic!

Create your own cleaner. Peppermint oil is a natural bug repellent so it’s great to use on windows. #DIY #Springcleaning

Spring Duct Cleaning

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

Spring is in the air! That also means allergy season is just around the corner. This is the best time to have your ventilation system's ductwork made fresh and clean after dust, debris, animal hair and other contaminants have been circulating through your vents during the winter months. Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your home or business.

Give SERVPRO of Glenview a call and we’ll come out and give you a free quote.

847-832-9300

#SERVPROGlenview  

Spring Break Water Damage

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

The amount of untold damage that a broken pipe can do is breath taking and that can be if you are there when it happens. How much initial damage and secondary damage will occur if you aren't there? What will happen and how long will it go on if you are gone on a Spring Vacation or out of town over the weekend?

Turning your water off before you leave for vacation or the weekend can seem like such a small and unlike preparation and yet that act alone can be the difference between avoiding disaster entirely or thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars in damage to your home or business.

Unfortunately, very few business and home owners take the time to learn where their emergency shut offs are, and only when the barbarians are at the gate does it become a necessity. 

Take the time to educate yourself where these shut offs are and don't forget to shut the water off before you leave for prolonged periods of time. Should disaster strike, call the professionals. Call SERVPRO of Glenview. 

                        847-832-9300

#WaterDamage #PipeBreak #InsuranceClaim #Restoration #Mitigation #BoardUp #FireDamage #SmokeDamage  #SERVPROGLENVIEW

Why SERVPRO - Faster to Any Disaster!

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Time is of the essence!

24 Hour Emergency Service

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals provide emergency water restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

Need Emergency Service? 
Call SERVPRO of Glenview Now: 
847-832-9300

A Fast Response Is Crucial

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,700 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency.

An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately.

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes:

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

Prepare yourself for Spring.......STORMS!

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

Spring can be devastatingly beautiful or just devastating!

From thunderstorms spawning high winds to flooding and tornadoes, spring storms can bring tremendous property damage.

Hailstorms cause almost $1 billion in property damage each year, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Losses for severe thunderstorms in the U.S. have increased sevenfold since 1980, reaching almost $15 billion last year, according to Munich Re, the world's largest reinsurer.

While it's true that it's difficult to predict Mother Nature, you can take steps ahead of time to prepare your home for spring storms, minimize damage and keep your family safe. Use these tips to prepare for whatever Mother Nature has in store this season:

• Prune dead or rotting branches from trees near your home or car that could fall during a storm.
• Stock an emergency kit with water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, flashlights and extra batteries, and a battery-operated radio in case of a storm-related power outage.
• Use surge protectors for electronic equipment in your home such as computers, televisions and appliances.
• Install a lightning protection system that will redirect lightning strikes safely into the ground.
• Know how to shut off the power to your house using the main fuse or breaker on the electrical service panel, and how to shut off water and gas support lines if instructed by disaster officials.
• Learn about flood insurance at floodsmart.gov. Floods and flash floods occur in all 50 states and most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood damages — even an inch of water can cause thousands of dollars in damage.
• Check the condition of your roof and make any needed repairs to minimize damage in a storm. Clean gutters and downspouts so water will be diverted away from your home.

If a storm is approaching, stay up to date on the latest weather conditions and heed any warnings or evacuation orders.

If a storm is imminent, it's time to batten down the hatches right away and think safety:

• Use your TV, radio or the Internet to stay up to date on changing weather conditions. Know the difference between a storm watch and the more serious storm warnings issued by the National Weather Service.
  
  
• Tie down or bring inside anything that could be blown around such as trash cans, barbecue grills and outdoor furniture.
  
  
• Get inside and close your windows and doors. Pull the blinds and drapes so that if glass is broken, it's less likely to fly into the house.
• Unplug expensive electronic equipment.
  
  
• Set your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting. In case of a power outage, food will be colder and last longer.

These steps can help you feel prepared for the uncertainty of spring storm season.

Remember that if you should be hit by a damaging storm, SERVPRO of Glenview, at 847-832-9300, is here to help.  "Like it never even happened."

See you at the Glenview Chamber of Commerce Resident Open House

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

Glenview Village Hall

On February 23rd, SERVPRO of Glenview will be participating in The Glenview Chamber of Commerce Resident Open House.

Location:Park Center Lobby Area
2400 Chestnut Avenue 

Date/Time Information:February 23, 2019
9:00 - 11:30 a.m. 

Event Description:Learn about Glenview at one time in one place at the Glenview Resident Open House. Representatives from Village of Glenview, Glenview Park District, Glenview Public Library, Glenview Chamber of Commerce, Northfield Township, and information from other community organizations will be available at this free event.

Jeff Thompson will be representing SERVPRO of Glenview at a table between 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

About our Community:
Glenview a destination of choice for businesses and their owners, and for the customers and community that contribute to make Glenview a great place to live and work.

SERVPRO of Glenview is 1 of nearly 500 companies that are a part of the Glenview Chamber of Commerce. For over 90 years the Chamber has served as a voice of business in Glenview. The Glenview Chamber serves as a connection for business information, business events, and great marketing opportunities. 

For the past 5 year we at SERVPRO of Glenview have been a proud member of the Glenview Chamber of Commerce. Through the different events, from ribbon cuttings to holiday parades we have had not but a great experience with the Chamber. On behalf of SERVPRO of Glenview, and nearly 500 local business we would like to say "THANKS" for all the help and support. 

SERVPRO of Glenview is locally owned and operated—so we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country. 

Stop by and see us!  We are proud to serve our local communities.

Why SERVPRO?

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

"Like it never even happened"

SERVPRO of Glenview is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – (847) 832-9300

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable.  You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Glenview has the specificwater damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. Thesequestions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

? Your name and contact information

? Your insurance information (if applicable)

? The street address of the water-damaged home or business

? When did the flooding or water damage occur?

? What caused the water damage (if known)?

? Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Glenview

SERVPRO of Glenview specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

6 Ways to Prevent Water Damage This Winter

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent Winter Water Damage from happening to you!

6 Ways to Prevent Water Damage This Winter

If the worst happens, your homeowner’s insurance will cover leaks and burst pipes, or water that comes into your home through your roof and windows. But it doesn't cover flooding.

Q What can I do to avoid water damage this winter? I know my policy doesn't cover flooding, but does it pay for other types of water damage claims?

A Yes. Homeowners insurance covers water damage, such as from leaks and burst pipes, or water that comes into your home through your roof and windows. In fact, water damage accounts for almost half of all property damage claims, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Burst pipes or undetected leaks can cause damage to the floor, walls, ceilings, furniture, artwork and other valuables, can soak electrical systems, and can even cause dangerous mold if not cleaned up quickly. A Chubb study found that 57% of homeowners who have experienced a water leak claim in the past two years spent more than $5,000 on clean-up costs, and 15% spent $20,000 or more. 

Here are six things you can do to protect your home from water damage, especially if you're leaving town during the winter.

1. Install a water leak detection device. A minor water leak can cause expensive damage if it remains undetected—if the leak is behind a wall, say, or if it happens while you're away from home. The lowest-cost leak detectors include sensors you can set up under sinks or near a water heater, dishwasher or refrigerator; they sound an alarm if they detect any moisture. Leak detectors that cost a bit more (typically $50 to $80) will send an alert to your smartphone if they detect moisture or a big change in the amount of water used in your home (signaling a possible leak). Some sensors even monitor the flow of water to your house and can shut down the water valve automatically if there's a noticeable change in the amount of water used, which is particularly helpful if you travel frequently. Your home insurance company may offer a discount for installing some kinds of leak detection devices.
2. Turn off the main water supply before leaving town for an extended period of time. That's the easiest and most cost-effective way to prevent water loss from happening. As an alternative, you could have someone check your house every few days and walk around to make sure there aren't any leaks.
3. Check your water supply lines at least once a year. Give your house an annual leak checkup to inspect water supply lines and washing machine hoses for signs of wear. Check for leaks from your hot water heater, washing machine, ice machine in your refrigerator, and any other appliances that can leak. Most water supply lines tend to last for about five years; you may want to replace rubber hoses with steel-braided hoses, which tend to last longer.
   
   
4. Get sewage-backup coverage. Heavy rains and melting snow can overburden the storm water system, causing water or sewage to back up into your house. Sewage and drain backups usually aren't covered automatically under your homeowner’s insurance, but it may cost only $50, say, to add $10,000 in coverage. Also consider having a battery-powered back-up for your sump pump if the electricity goes out.
5. Clean your gutters and inspect your roof. Remove leaves and other debris, which can clog gutters and send water pouring down the side of your house or under your roof. Also inspect your roof and repair or replace missing or damaged shingles, which can cause water to come in through the roof.
   
   
6. Protect your pipes from freezing. Insulate accessible pipes with pipe insulation materials, especially in attics and crawl spaces. When it gets very cold, keep cabinet or closet doors open to help prevent pipes there from freezing. Consider low-temperature detectors, which can send an alert to your smartphone if the temperature in areas of your home near pipes dips below freezing.
   
   

If winter water damage happens to you, remember that SERVPRO of Glenview is faster to any disaster.  Call 847-832-9300!

Emergency Ready Profile - Reduce the Impact of Disaster on Your Business

1/17/2019 (Permalink)

Emergency Ready Profile - Reduce the Impact of Disaster on Your Business

Disaster can strike a business in the blink of an eye, and when it does those who are prepared for it can bounce back much quicker then those who have no plan. In fact, up to 50% of all companies that are struck by a disaster can NEVER bounce back from it!

SERVPRO of Glenview can help your business get back on track after a disaster by developing an Emergency Ready Profile. The ERP will minimize your business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. What exactly to do, and what exactly to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.  

The Emergency Ready Profile is a tool that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It serves as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By using your own Emergency Ready Profile, SERVPRO of Glenview can help reduce the impact of any disaster, natural or man-made. We are a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order. 

Contact SERVPRO of Glenview for a NO COST assessment of your facility at 847-832-9300!! 

Happy New Year from SERVPRO of Glenview

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

Have a Safe and Happy 2019!

Ringing in the New Year means new resolutions for many, such as living healthier lives, dropping bad habits or developing better organizational skills. Our goal at SERVPRO of Glenview is to have a team of quality people that will always provide excellent customer service to help our clients in their times of need. Our New Year’s resolution is to be committed to continuing to improve on the services we provide. We strive for 100% customer satisfaction. We know that by staying up to date on the latest techniques, equipment and resources, we will be ready for whatever happens. With open minds and continued training we will become even more efficient at making it “Like it never even happened.”

Happy New Year from SERVPRO of Glenview! We hope 2019 brings success, happiness, and prosperity!

'Tis the Season...for Accidents: Preventing Holiday Home Mishaps

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

Be mindful and safe during this holiday season.

Things change around the house during the holidays. One family member is perched on a sky-high ladder hanging up festive lights on your home's exterior. Another is slaving over a hot stove for hours on end. Youngsters are playing on all sorts of unfamiliar, newfangled toys. And there's often a huge, flammable tree in the living room. Needless to say, the opportunities for accidents are many during this time of year. While we hope to let a sense of joy and gratitude reign over this month in Illinois, it's also prudent to be cautious and take a few steps to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property during this vulnerable time.

Decorative Lights, Candles, or Dried-Up Conifers = Recipe for a House Fire:

Forbes.com has reported that over 400 Americans die in holiday-related house fires every year. To avoid becoming a statistic, do the following:

• Carefully examine your decorative lights for any loose connections or frayed wires. If anything looks amiss, invest in a new set.
• Never use an indoor extension cord outside; indoor cords aren't waterproof, and in wet climates this could spell disaster.
• Unplug decorative lights when you're away.
• Never let candles burn unattended. If you aren't going to be in the room where they are burning, blow them out. Keep them on stable, flat surfaces at a safe distance from anything flammable (i.e. wrapping paper).
• Set up your Christmas tree in a location that is distant from your fireplace or wood stove, as well as any candles. Don't allow a dried-up tree to remain in the house.

Poisonous Plants and Perilous Climbs:

Some of the things we do in the name of décor-bringing all kinds of flora indoors and climbing tall ladders in order to deck the halls-are quite dangerous. According to The Consumer Product Safety Commission, there are 1,200 holiday decorating-related accidents every year. In addition to taking extra care when you ascend that latter or wield that staple gun, you should also know this:

• Christmas cacti, holly berries, and mistletoe (everyone's favorite holiday plants) are all poisonous if swallowed. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.
• While not as potently poisonous as the other plants, poinsettias can make both pets and people sick, so keep them out of reach, too.

Opportunistic Thieves:

Burglars like to take advantage of the holidays. Not only do many homeowners leave town for extended periods, they also often leave their houses full of newly purchased treasures. To dissuade burglars from entering your home in your absence, take these steps:

• Set a handful of indoor lights to a timer, so that they will turn on and off at regular intervals, giving the impression that someone may be home.
• Ask a neighbor to remove your daily morning paper from the front stoop every day, as well as remove your mail from the box. Doing so will also create the impression that someone is home.

We wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday season and a wonderful new year.

Put A Freeze on Winter Fires

12/4/2018 (Permalink)

Stay safe this winter. Winter fires do happen.

Heating, holiday decorations, winter storms and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during the winter months.

Heating

Heating is the second leading cause of U.S. home fires, deaths and injuries. December, January and February are the peak months for heating fires. Space heaters are the type of equipment most often involved in home heating equipment fires, figuring in two of every five fires (40%). 

Carbon Monoxide

Often called the invisible killer, carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, propane, etc. do not burn completely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of CO. Carbon monoxide incidents are more common during the winter months, and in residential properties. 

Winter storms

Most of the U.S. is at risk for winter storms, which can cause dangerous and sometimes life-threatening conditions. Blinding wind-driven snow, extreme cold, icy road conditions, downed trees and power lines can all wreak havoc on our daily schedules. Home fires occur more in the winter than in any other season, and heating equipment is involved in one of every six reported home fires, and one in every five home fire deaths.

Generators

Portable generators are useful during power outages; however, many homeowners are unaware that the improper use of portable generators can be risky. The most common dangers associated with portable generators are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, electrical shock or electrocution, and fire hazards. According to a 2013 Consumer Product Safety Commission report, half of the generator-related deaths happened in the four coldest months of the year, November through February, and portable generators were involved in the majority of carbon monoxide deaths involving engine-driven tools. 

Candles

December is the peak time of year for home candle fires; the top three days for home candle fires are Christmas, New Year’s Day, and New Year’s Eve. Each year between 2012 and 2016, an average of 8,200 home candle fires were reported each year. 

Electrical

Electrical home fires are a leading cause of home fires in the U.S. Roughly half of all home electrical fires involved electrical distribution or lighting equipment, while nearly another half involved other known types of equipment like washer or dryer fans, and portable or stationary space heaters. 

SERVPRO of Glenview wants you to be safe, but if this should happen to you, we can help!  847-832-9300

7 Tips to Get Your Home Ready for Cold Weather

11/27/2018 (Permalink)

Protect your home from winter storms

Stay warm, save money and prevent damage to your home from cold and snow with these simple steps.  

As cold weather approaches, there are several things you can do around the house to make sure you and your family stay warm and safe all winter. These seven steps can ensure your house will be in top shape for whatever winter brings.

1.  Protect Your Pipes:

We all know water expands as it freezes. If water inside your pipes freezes, it will expand, too, which can cause your pipes to crack and burst. Pipes also can burst when pressure builds up behind a chunk of ice, which is why it's a good idea to leave faucets dripping in very cold weather. Either way, a burst pipe can cause massive damage. Take a few steps to winterize your pipes and avoid potential catastrophe.

• Drain water from outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems to keep those pipes from freezing.
• Disconnect and store outdoor hoses; cover outdoor faucets with foam insulators.
• Protect water pipes that run through unheated areas of your home with insulation, such as the attic, basement, or garage.

Pro Tip: Know where your water shutoff valve is so that you can turn off the water in case of an emergency. Typically it's located in the basement or buried near the road.

2.  Check the Heat:

 The time to be sure you're going to stay warm all winter is before the weather gets too cold. Check your furnace by turning on the heat and the blower to be sure they're operating as they should.

• Change your furnace filter at the start of the season and then every two to four months. Filters get dirty much more quickly if your home is dusty or if you have furry or feathery pets. Clogged or dirty filters are less efficient, which means your home might not warm up properly.
• Consider installing a programmable thermostat if you don't have one. Programming it to be cooler at night and when you're not at home will save you money, and you can program it to be warmer for when you return or get up on cold winter mornings.

Pro Tip: Reverse the direction of your ceiling fans. Everybody thinks of using fans in the summer, but they can help you stay warm in winter too. Set the blades to turn clockwise to circulate warm air from the ceiling down into the room.

3.  Prevent Ice Dams:

Ice dams form when heat escapes through the roof and melts snow that's settled there. That snowmelt flows to your roof's edge and refreezes, usually at the eaves. Those pretty icicles can signal an ugly ice dam underneath. The problem with an ice dam is that snow that later melts can't properly drain, so it has to go somewhere… and that might be through a leak in your roof, causing water damage in your home. 

Fortunately, a few simple steps before the temperature starts to drop can go a long way toward preventing all of this:

• Clogged gutters and downspouts are the No. 1 cause of ice dams. Clean them out to keep water flowing during the winter.
• Seal places that may allow warm air to leak from your home to your attic, such as around vent pipes, exhaust fans, chimneys, attic hatches, and light fixtures.
• Be sure soffit vents, which are along the eaves of the house and allow air to flow into the attic, are clear.

If you've had problems with ice dams before or have reason to suspect you might this year, you can take these additional steps:

• Install snow and ice slides to prevent ice and snow from "bonding" to your roof.
• Install a rubberized ice and water shield beneath the roof shingles, going three to six feet back from the eaves.
• Hire a roofer to install heat cable along the eaves to melt ice.
• Add additional insulation to your attic floor.

4.  Clean and Store Lawn Equipment:

After a summer of yard work, gas-powered equipment such as mowers, trimmers, tillers, and chippers can all benefit from service before being stored for the winter. This basic checklist will get you started on equipment maintenance, but be sure to check the owner's manual for any specific requirements for your machines.

• Empty all of the fuel. Gas can degrade all the time, and the ethanol in E10 gas can damage fuel lines and other components while sitting unused. Try to use up most of the fuel during the last mowing of the season. You can remove what’s left with a meat baster, then run the engines until they stop. Check with your local waste management or public works department for guidance on how to dispose of the fuel.
• Clean the machine of oil and yard debris, and sharpen the blades.
• Store them for winter in a basement, garage, or covered storage shed where they're safe from the weather.

5.  Inspect the Fireplace and Chimney:

 There's nothing like the glow of a fire to warm up a winter evening. But before you light up that first log, make sure your fireplace and chimney are clean and critter-free. 

A professional chimney sweep can clean out soot and other debris that could catch fire. Keep your home's warm air from escaping out the chimney when you're not using it by keeping the flue closed all the way. You shouldn't be able to feel any cold air coming down the chimney. 

You can also install glass fireplace doors or a chimney inflatable that blocks cold air from coming down the chimney and keeps in warm air. 

6.  Seal Windows and Doors:

 Gaps around windows and doors can make it tough to keep your house warm in winter. Caulk around windows and install weather stripping around doors as needed. This minor and inexpensive task can help you save on heating costs. 

If your windows and doors are older, they may be inefficient single-pane windows or uninsulated doors. Consider upgrading to double- or even triple-pane windows and insulated doors and garage doors to boost the energy efficiency of your home. 

Another option is to add storm windows and doors. Remove, wash and store screens for the spring before you have them installed. 

7.  Stock Up on Cold-weather Essentials:

When winter storms hit, they often come with power outages. To ensure you and your family are prepared for anything Mother Nature throws at you this winter, you will want to have an emergency kit ready. Explore this one for ideas of what to put in it, and consider having these cold-weather specific items on hand as well:

• A working, fully charged fire extinguisher.
• An alternative heat source such as a generator, wood-burning stove, or fireplace.
• Sand, ice melt, and a shovel if where you live is prone to ice and snow (avoid using kitty litter, as it doesn't provide good traction and can make a mess).

You should also develop a plan for communicating or meeting up with family in case you aren't together when a winter storm hits. 

And get your car ready too. Whether you live in a cold-weather climate or just plan to visit one, you will want to keep these essentials in your car for winter-weather emergencies. 

A storm or power outage in winter can be dangerous, even when you’re in your car or home. Be prepared this winter to weather the storms and cold.

Remember that if you do have damage in your home caused by winter weather, call SERVPRO of Glenview at 847-834-9399 and we will restore it "Like it never even happened"!

SERVPRO of Glenview - Panama City Bound!

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

We are prepared to handle Hurricane Michael's devastation!

SERVPRO is rallying crews from all over the country to help restore the Florida Panhandle back to its beautiful self, again. 

SERVPRO of Glenview dispatched a crew to assist in the restoration after the devastation Hurricane Michael wrought on the Gulf Coast earlier this month.

It has been a year of devastating hurricanes. From the crushing impact of Hurricane Harvey in 2017 in the Gulf Coast to Hurricane Florence in North Carolina, and now Hurricane Michael in Florida, you may never think that you will be affected…until it happens to you.

Facts about Hurricanes

• On average, the U.S. Eastern Coast experiences 10 tropical storms a year.
• They form from warm waters over the Atlantic Ocean, and under right circumstances, develop into massive hurricanes, circulating at 180 MPH.
• They can last for 2 to 3 weeks before they even making landfall.
• Hurricanes can cover miles in circumference, increasing the mass area for destruction.

Hurricane Michael

Hurricane Michael made landfall in Mexico Beach, Florida on the afternoon of October 10, 2018. Hurricane Michael’s winds were at 155 MPH, the category 4 hurricane close to being a category 5 and the most powerful hurricane since 1992. The Florida panhandle was left in ruins and devastation.

What Can SERVPRO do for you?

SERVPRO of Glenview specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after damaging event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility for regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. 

Winter Storm Preparations

10/15/2018 (Permalink)

Keep your home safe and snug against the ravages of Winter.

More often than not, as homeowners, the last thing we want to do is home repairs.  Not only do they take time (and many of us don't have a lot to spare), but they can also be costly and sometimes tedious.  Small repairs such as changing a light bulb or fixing a leaky faucet can be put off until it is absolutely necessary to fix, but there are some repairs that should never be put off.  Unfortunately, many of these involve major things (and can come with an even more major price tag), but avoiding the two repairs listed below could actually cause bigger problems down the road when the cold freezing temperatures and snow hit us shortly.  

Roof Issues

Every home has a roof.  This is one of the most important parts of any building because it protects what is inside.  The roof is a major player when it comes to keeping up on repairs.  If you notice any leaks, missing or damaged shingles/tiles or any kind of sagging this should be fixed as soon as possible.  Leaks mean water will get into your home and then may lead to mold, structure damage and even possibly fire if it comes in contact with anything electrical.  Missing or damaged shingles can lead to a number of issues if not fixed and create weak spots in a roof.  A sagging roof could signify moisture in the attic and could be a sign of poor ventilation, broken or cracked joists, rafters or the ridge line itself.  

Foundation Issues

The foundation of your home is extremely important-it holds up your home's entire structure.  Cracks in the foundation are definitely something not to overlook when it comes to repairs. The last thing you want as a homeowner is for a crack to spread.  Checking your home's foundation in the fall will help prevent water from thawing snow or ice getting into your home in the spring.  

Plumbing Issues

Water anywhere other than in a pipe or sink basin is bad, especially for your home.  Plumbing issues and leaks anywhere in your property should be addressed as soon as possible.  Winter in the Chicago area is known for its below freezing temperatures.  This can sometimes take a toll on the plumbing and pipes in your home.  Checking them now will be a great step towards prevention.

If you should experience Winter related damage in your home, we are here for you at SERVPRO of Glenview.  Call us at 847-832-9300 and we will make it right to you again "Like it never happened".

Don't Let Water Damage Get Out of Hand!

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Make sure your home doesn't stay soggy after the flood.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Glenview provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Glenview arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 - (847) 832-9300

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Glenview

SERVPRO of Glenview specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IIC

Fire Prevention Week. We Honor Glenview Fire Department.

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Week - We Honor our Firefighters.

FIRE PREVENTION WEEK - OCTOBER 7 - 13.

We at SERVPRO give thanks to and honor the Glenview Fire Department for all of their services.

In celebration of Fire Prevention Week, the Glenview Fire Department invites the community to an open house from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, October 20, at Fire Station 14, 2250 Patriot Boulevard.

Tour the apparatus and firehouse ~ view displays by the Fire Department Special Teams, Glenview Police and Glenview Public Safety Dispatchers. Watch hands-on demonstrations.

HOW THE GLENVIEW FIRE DEPARTMENT SERVES OUR COMMUNITY:

Rescue and Suppression

Fire suppression and rescue services are provided 24 hours per day, seven days per week. In order to provide excellent fire suppression services, the department operates five apparatus responding from five stations located throughout the Village. The apparatus include four engine companies and one ladder company.

Rescue and Suppression

Fire suppression and rescue services are provided 24 hours per day, seven days per week.  In order to provide excellent fire suppression services, the department operates five apparatus responding from five stations located throughout the Village.  The apparatus include four engine companies and one ladder company.   To learn more about our calls and special rescue teams, click here.

Emergency Medical Services

The Fire Department provides emergency medical services to residents and businesses residing in the Village of Glenview and its unincorporated areas.  The Department operates two paramedic ambulances 24 hours per day and one paramedic ambulance 12 hours per day, during peak hours from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.  In addition, all front line fire suppression apparatus are equipped with paramedic equipment with a goal of delivering medical assistance within four to six minutes from the request of services.  The Department has over 60 State of Illinois-licensed paramedics who also function as firefighters.  Do you have questions about ambulance billing or need an ambulance report? Click here.

Public Education

The department is committed to educating the public on fire safety and prevention through a variety of life-safety programs and educational opportunities including, but not limited to, preschool, elementary and middle school education seminars; Boy Scout Merit Badge instruction; first aid, CPR and Heimlich Maneuver; and fire extinguisher (local business only) training.  When able, the Department also will provide station tours and appear at block parties upon request. 

For a full list of services or for more information, click here.

If fire strikes your home and family, SERVPRO of Glenview is there to help makes things right again - 847-832-9300

We are here to help you!

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

We Are Here For You!

WE’RE HERE TO HELP YOU.

From repairing fire damage to cleaning carpets; removing a biohazard at your business to restoring your home after flooding, SERVPRO of Glenview has the equipment, training, and expertise to help. We’re a trusted leader in the restoration industry. As a locally owned and operated business, we provide 24-hour emergency service to Glenview and the surrounding region. Our crews are dedicated to responding immediately to commercial or residential needs. That makes us a smart choice to clean up and restore your property. Explore this site and let us know what we can do for you.

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

Residential Services

SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the restoration industry with over 1,700 Franchises in the U.S. and Canada. Whether you need help with emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on SERVPRO of Glenview. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services.

Commercial Services

Your property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. When it’s impacted by fire or water damage, you need professional help. Every hour spent restoring your business is lost revenue and productivity. When you need professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, we have the training and resources to get your property back to business quickly. Learn more about our commercial services.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Glenview is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a cleaning or restoration need, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Glenview, IL community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be.

We are proud to serve our local communities.

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (847) 832-9300

Using a Space Heater to Cozy Up Your Room? Just Take Care!

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

Be Mindful When Using a Space Heater. Keep Your Home Safe.

It's getting to be that time of the year where a space heater seems like the perfect appliance to make a room a little cozier.

Fire does not care what season it is or whether or not it’s cold outside. Cold weather related fires are extremely common, especially when you are trying to keep warm. 
 
Our offices in Glenview have experience in fire damage from space heaters and can provide you with some tips to help avoid having to deal with these types of destructive events this coming Autumn and Winter. 
 
SERVPRO of Glenview technicians understand that accidents happen. Placing space heaters too close to other objects or using the wrong type of heater in a particular area can cause severe problems. Please take a moment to consider some factors leading to these fires.
 
Oil Heaters - Should be used in areas where there is the possibility of moisture. This eliminates any electrical hazards that may be present due to water conductivity. Always keep a safe distance to avoid contact burns. 

Electric Heaters - These heaters come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be useful for many areas in your home. However, they should never be left unattended. Thinking of electric heaters as giant toasters can help you understand how important it is to keep a constant eye on them. Make sure you have sufficient wattage to run the device and never use extension cords.
 
Our SERVPRO of Glenview staff gets an incredible amount of space heater-related calls every year when the weather gets to get chilly and blustery. People are trying to stay warm and use space heaters quite often for this purpose. However, using a space heater does not need to cause so many problems during a cold spell. Just use common sense, and always follow the directions of the manufacturer.

The professional technicians at SERVPRO of Glenview state that you follow a few simple guidelines when operating your space heaters. 
 
1) Always place space heaters on a flat, solid surface for proper stabilization. 
 
2) Purchase heaters with an automatic shut-off feature to prevent dangers from tipping. 
 
3) Maintain proper spacing between heaters and other objects in your home. 
 
4) Never leave children or pets unsupervised around operating heaters. 
 
5) Shut your heaters off properly before leaving your home or going to sleep. 
 
Following these guidelines does not ensure that you will never have to deal with fire damage from space heaters. However, you are less likely to have an unwanted consequence. If this sort of incident still strikes your home this cold weather season, make the call to our offices at 847-832-9300 immediately. We will respond quickly and provide you with the services you need to get back to normal fast. 
 

Make Your Home a Safe Place for Your Family!

9/20/2018 (Permalink)

Child Proof Your Home

From overly hot faucets to tipped-over coffee cups, burns are a potential hazard in every home. In fact, burns (especially scalds from hot water and liquids) are some of the most common childhood accidents. Babies and young children are especially at risk — they're curious, small, and have sensitive skin that needs extra protection.

Here are some important ways to protect kids from burns — as well as electrical shocks and household fires — in your home.

In General

• Make a fire escape plan with two ways out of the house, plus a designated meeting place once out of the house. Practice the fire escape plan regularly.
• Keep an emergency ladder on upper floors of your home in the event of a fire. Keep the ladder in or near the room of an adult or older child capable of using it.
• Make sure you have a smoke alarm on every level of your home and in each bedroom. Test smoke alarms monthly and remember to change the batteries twice a year.
• Replace smoke alarms that are 10 years or older.
• Install a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and know how to use it.
• Keep matches, lighters, chemicals, and lit candles out of kids' reach.
• Don't smoke inside, especially when you're tired, taking medication that can cause you to be drowsy, or in bed.

Electrical Equipment and Appliances

• Put child-safety covers on all electrical outlets.
• Get rid of equipment and appliances with old or frayed cords and extension cords that look damaged.
• Bind excess cord from lamps or other electrical equipment with a twist-tie to prevent injury from chewing on cords. You also can purchase a holder or spool specially designed to hide extra cord.
• Position television and stereo equipment against walls so small hands don't have access to the back surfaces or cords. It's best to secure TVs by attaching them to the wall.
• Make sure all wires to seasonal lighting, such as holiday tree lights, are properly insulated (for example, make sure they don't have exposed or broken wiring). Bind any excess cord and unplug lights when they're not in use.
• Check electronic toys often for signs of wear and tear; any object that sparks, feels hot, or smells unusual must be repaired or thrown away immediately. Replace batteries in electronic toys regularly and look for any signs of corrosion in the toys.
• Clean the clothes dryer vent of lint after each use.
• Don't run electrical wires under rugs or carpet.
• Don't overload electrical sockets.
• Keep any decorative items away from windows, doors, and ceilings. Make sure anything you have near the ceiling is not blocking any sprinklers you may have installed.

Living Room

• Screen fireplaces and wood-burning stoves and always keep kids 3 feet away from them. Radiators and electric baseboard heaters also might need to be screened.
• Teach kids never to put anything into the fireplace when it is lit. Also make sure they know the doors to the fireplace can be very hot and cause a burn.
• Make sure to have all chimneys inspected and cleaned regularly.

Bedroom

• Choose sleepwear that's labeled flame-retardant (either polyester or treated cotton). Cotton sweatshirts or pants that aren't labeled as sleepwear generally aren't flame-retardant. If you use cotton sleepwear, make sure that it fits your child snugly.
• Make sure any nightlights aren't touching fabric like bedspreads or curtains.
• Keep electric space heaters at least 3 feet (91 centimeters) away from kids and away from beds, curtains, or anything flammable.
• If you use a humidifier or vaporizer, use a cool-mist model rather than a hot-steam one.

Bathroom

• Set the thermostat on your hot water heater to 120°F (49°C), or use the "low-medium setting" — a child can be scalded in 5 seconds in water at 140°F (60°C). If you're unable to control the water temperature (if you live in an apartment, for example), install an anti-scald device, which is relatively inexpensive and easily installed by you or a plumber.
• Always test bath water with your elbow or the inside of your wrist before putting your child in it.
• Always turn the cold water on first and turn it off last when running water in the bathtub or sink.
• In the tub, turn kids away from the faucet or fixtures so they're less likely to play with them or accidentally turn on the hot water.
• Install grounded circuit breakers in the bathroom.
• Make sure older kids are especially careful when using irons or curling irons. Unplug these items after use and, when cool, store out of reach of young children.

Kitchen/Dining Room

• Have a 3-foot "no play" zone around the stove where kids are not allowed to be.
• Don't let a child use a walker in the kitchen (experts strongly discourage any use of walkers).
• Don't drink hot beverages or soup with a child sitting on your lap, or carry hot liquids or dishes near kids. If you have to walk with hot liquid in the kitchen (like a pot of soup or cup of coffee), make sure you know where kids are so you don't trip over them.
• Don't hold a baby or small child while cooking.
• Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove every time you cook.
• Block access to the stove as much as possible. (It's a good idea to install a stove lock and stove knob locks.)
• Don't warm baby bottles in a microwave. The liquid may heat unevenly, resulting in pockets of hot breast milk or formula that can scald a baby's mouth.
• Keep hot drinks and foods out of reach of children.
• Avoid using tablecloths or large placemats. A small child can pull on them and overturn a hot drink or plate of food.
• Unplug all kitchen appliances when not in use and keep cords far from reach.
• Make sure to use cabinet locks on cabinets containing cleaning products. Many can cause burns. Always store cleaning products in their original containers, never in milk or plastic jugs.

Outside/In the Car

• Don't use fireworks or sparklers.
• Use playgroundequipment carefully. If it's very hot outside, use the equipment only in the morning, after it's had a chance to cool down during the night.
• Remove your child's safety seat or stroller from the hot sun when not in use because kids can get burns from hot vinyl and metal. If you must leave your car seat or stroller in the sun, cover it with a blanket or towel.
• Before leaving your parked car on a hot day, hide the seat belts' metal latch plates in the seats to prevent the sun from hitting them directly.
• Don't forget the sunscreen when going outside. Use a product with an SPF of 15 or higher. Apply sunscreen 20-30 minutes before going out and reapply every 2 hours or more often if in water.
• Keep infants under 6 months out of the sun.

Be Prepared

If you have young kids in your home, childproof as much as you can. Get down on your hands and knees in every room of your house to see things as kids do. Be aware of your child's surroundings and what could be dangerous.

Of course, childproofing shouldn't take the place of parental supervision. Keeping an eye on kids is the best way to prevent accidents.

It's always a good idea to:

• Learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the Heimlich maneuver.
• Keep these numbers near the phone (for yourself and caregivers):
  • toll-free poison-control number: (800) 222-1222
  • child's doctor's number
  • parents' work and cellphone numbers
  • neighbor's or nearby relative's number (if you need someone to watch other children in an emergency)
• Make a first-aid kit and keep emergency instructions inside.
• Teach your kids how and when to call 911 or other emergency numbers for help.
• Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.

Even with these precautions in place, kids still can get hurt and accidents do happen. But being prepared will help you to act quickly and confidently in the event of an emergency.

Keep Your Home Safe From Fire!

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

Prevent Your Home From Burning!

Accidental house fires remain a serious safety threat to homeowners, renters, and their families. Each year, roughly 3,400 people are killed in home fires or by burn injuries, making them the third-most-common cause of accidental deaths at home. Eight out of 10 fire-related deaths occur at home—the place that is the very embodiment of comfort and security.

Following are the most common ways that home fires ignite and provided a list of simple steps homeowners can take to prevent them.

Attention: In addition to the steps listed below, all households should have at least one smoke alarm on each floor and preferably in every bedroom. New smoke alarms should be installed every 10 years—and if you don't know how old your smoke alarm is, you should get a new one. Families should also plan and practice a home fire drill at least twice a year so that everyone in the house knows how to get outside fast in the case of a fire. If you don't already have one, the Home Safety Council has resources for creating such a plan available here.

Fire Threat 1: Cooking

Fire safety starts in the kitchen. Cooking—particularly stove-top cooking—represents the leading cause of home fires. Many such fires occur after residents put something on the stove but become distracted and forget about it. Solution: Stand by your pan.  Because cooking causes so many home fires, it's essential to give anything that's on top of your stove has your undivided attention.  If you have to leave the kitchen, turn the heat off [the burner] before you answer the phone or leave the room.

Fire Threat 2: Heating

The second-most-common cause of home fires is heating—although in the winter months, it becomes the leading concern. Portable, electric space heaters start a great deal of trouble, as sheets or window curtains accidentally come in contact with the unit and ignite.

Solution: Give heaters space People using space heaters should ensure that they are far enough away from other objects to avoid danger. A space heater needs 3 feet of clear space all around it in all directions, keeping it away from draperies, furniture, bedspreads, people, and pets.  In addition, homeowners should have their central heating equipment professionally inspected and serviced each heating season. And if you regularly have logs burning in your fireplace, get your chimney inspected and cleaned annually as well.

Fire Threat 3: Smoking

In addition to its health dangers, smoking is the third-most-common cause of home fires—and the top cause of home fire deaths. Such fires can occur as smokers lose track of their still-smoldering butts, which then come in contact with flammable surfaces such as couch cushions.

Solution: Take it outside If you have a smoker in the house, the best way to prevent cigarette-related home fires is to institute a policy of no smoking indoors. Most people do not have as many combustible items around outside. In addition, cigarettes should be doused with water before they are thrown away to make sure they are completely extinguished.

Fire Threat 4: Electrical

Faulty or deteriorating electrical cords are another top cause of home fires. Cords that become frayed or cracked can send sparks to flammable surfaces and start a fire.

Solution: Cord checkup Check all of your electrical cords to ensure that they are in good shape, and replace any that are worn out. In addition, make sure you are not overloading circuits.  It should be one plug per receptacle—you don't want that octopus thing going on.

Fire Threat 5: Candles

Since they have open flames and are fixtures in many households, candles are also among the most common sources of home fires.

Solution: Think about batteries Instead of using traditional, open-flame candles, consider switching to battery-operated candles that look and perform like real ones. If you do use traditional candles, make sure there is always an adult paying attention in the room when one is burning. (The flame should be extinguished when the adult leaves the room.) Get out of the habit of lighting a candle in a room and just leaving it burning. You are inviting disaster. Finally, candles should not be lit in your bedroom.

Glenview Chamber of Commerce/SERVPRO of Glenview Meeting of Minds

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

On August 23rd,  we hosted a great event with Glenview Chamber of Commerce, catered by Forza Meats.

We first invited our guests to partake in the wonderful luncheon provided by Forza Meats, a new business in the Glenview area.  The food was a hit!  The group was then escorted to the tables where the presentation was to take place.

As everyone enjoyed the food and conversation, Jeff Thompson, owner, introduced our staff, Saul Perez, Production Manager; Martin Morado, Technician and Diane Erwin, Administration & Marketing.  Jeff discussed our services and answered lots of questions.  

Our guests introduced themselves individually and described their business services.  There was a lot of good discussions and networking. 

It was a fun and successful meeting for all!  Thank you to everyone who showed up for the Women’s networking lunch. Looking forward to continued community collaboration!

Fire's Out (YEAY)......Now the Real Work Begins

8/14/2018 (Permalink)

Call us for help!

August Special!

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Fabulous!

Hey friends in Glenview & neighboring burbs!

SERVPRO of Glenview is running a fabulous selfie special during the month of August!

Here is all you have to do:

1. Shop at Mariano's (yum).
2. Find the SERVPRO of Glenview ad on your cart.
3. Take a fabulous selfie with the ad at Mariano's.
4. Post that fabulous selfie on the SERVPRO of Glenview Facebook Page... and.....drum roll......
5. Receive a $100 discount on any service that we offer!

It's that easy!

Meanwhile, Have a fabulous August.  Enjoy the weather.  Remember that we have your back if you need us at 847-832-9300!

Water Damage! What Do I Do With My Soggy Stuff?

7/24/2018 (Permalink)

A burst pipe? A broken sump pump? Now what?

We’ve all had it happen sometime in our lives. You walk into your basement after a rainstorm, check on that dripping sound coming from the kitchen, or go see why that odd noise is coming from the laundry machine and there it is: water flooding into your home. Sometimes the cause is obvious: a pipe leaks, a nasty flood outside creeps under a doorway, or the dishwasher starts pouring water onto the hardwood floor. However, something seemingly innocuous can lead to heavy damage as well. Areas prone to collecting water, like crawlspaces and basements, can slowly build up moisture and become a breeding ground for mold. Water damage, if not taken care of promptly, can lead to major catastrophes for home owners: mold can lead to health problems (death in the most extreme cases), furniture and other belongings can become permanently damaged, and even the foundation of a building can be weakened. If you’re concerned about any belongings stored in places prone to water damage, you can always place them in plastic bins. Make sure they’re elevated so that water coming in can’t reach them. Your items might seem safe in a basement, crawl space, or attic, but leaks and floods happen. Preventative measures can save you time, money, and stress.

 So, what can you do about water damage? First and foremost, you should take lots of pictures and contact your insurance agency. They’ll want to see what happened before you’ve intervened to determine your coverage. The next step might seem obvious, but you should dry the area as much as possible. Mop it, lay towels on the area, do whatever you can to absorb as much water as possible, but avoid using electronic appliances. While this can help, water can seep into drywall, the floor, and other permeable objects. If this is the case, you’ll need to remove and replace these damaged areas. Sometimes it can be difficult to know just how much water has spread, as it can travel through floors and walls. A damp or moldy smell is a strong indicator that water seeped into the area, but you can also use a moisture meter, which you can buy online or at your local hardware store, to find areas that have been saturated. Of course, your local SERVPRO of Glenview can efficiently and effectively remove odors, damaged areas, and tough-to-get mold, leaving you safe and worry-free.

Summer Showers Bring Green Grass & Flowers....AND MOLD!

7/17/2018 (Permalink)

Don't feed the mold.Keep you home dry!

There is always some mold everywhere – in the air and on many surfaces. Molds have been on the Earth for millions of years. Mold grows where there is moisture.

Mold and Your Health

Exposure to damp and moldy environments may cause a variety of health effects, or none at all. Some people are sensitive to molds. For these people, molds can cause nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, eye irritation, or, in some cases, skin irritation. People with mold allergies may have more severe reactions. Immune-compromised people and people with chronic lung illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, may get serious infections in their lungs when they are exposed to mold. These people should stay away from areas that are likely to have mold, such as compost piles, cut grass, and wooded areas.

In 2004 the Institute of Medicine (IOM) found there was sufficient evidence to link indoor exposure to mold with upper respiratory tract symptoms, cough, and wheeze in otherwise healthy people; with asthma symptoms in people with asthma; and with hypersensitivity pneumonitis in individuals susceptible to that immune-mediated condition. The IOM also found limited or suggestive evidence linking indoor mold exposure and respiratory illness in otherwise healthy children.

In addition, in 2004 the IOM found sufficient evidence to link exposure to damp indoor environments in general to upper respiratory tract symptoms, cough, and wheeze in otherwise healthy people and with asthma symptoms in people with asthma. The IOM also found limited or suggestive evidence linking exposure to damp indoor environments in general to shortness of breath, to respiratory illness in otherwise healthy children and to potential development of asthma in susceptible individuals. In 2009, the World Health Organization issued additional guidance, the WHO Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality: Dampness and Mold [PDF – 2.65 MB]. Other recent studies have suggested a potential link of early mold exposure to development of asthma in some children, particularly among children who may be genetically susceptible to asthma development, and that selected interventions that improve housing conditions can reduce morbidity from asthma and respiratory allergies, but more research is needed in this regard.

Mold and Your Home

Mold is found both indoors and outdoors. Mold can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, and heating and air conditioning systems. Mold in the air outside can also attach itself to clothing, shoes, bags, and pets can and be carried indoors.

Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, or pipes, or where there has been flooding. Mold grows well on paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, and wood products. Mold can also grow in dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery.

You Can Control Mold

Inside your home you can control mold growth by:

• Controlling humidity levels;
• Promptly fixing leaky roofs, windows, and pipes;
• Thoroughly cleaning and drying after flooding;
• Ventilating shower, laundry, and cooking areas.

Mold growth, which often looks like spots, can be many different colors, and can smell musty. If you can see or smell mold, a health risk may be present. You do not need to know the type of mold growing in your home, and CDC does not recommend or perform routine sampling for molds. No matter what type of mold is present, you should remove it. Since the effect of mold on people can vary greatly, either because of the amount or type of mold, you cannot rely on sampling and culturing to know your health risk. Also, good sampling for mold can be expensive, and standards for judging what is and what is not an acceptable quantity of mold have not been set. The best practice is to remove the mold and work to prevent future growth.

MOLD PREVENTION TIPS

• Keep humidity levels as low as you can—no higher than 50%–all day long. An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help you keep the level low. Bear in mind that humidity levels change over the course of a day with changes in the moisture in the air and the air temperature, so you will need to check the humidity levels more than once a day.
• Be sure your home has enough ventilation. Use exhaust fans which vent outside your home in the kitchen and bathroom. Make sure your clothes dryer vents outside your home.
• Fix any leaks in your home’s roof, walls, or plumbing so mold does not have moisture to grow.
• Clean up and dry out your home thoroughly and quickly (within 24–48 hours) after flooding.
• Add mold inhibitors to paints before painting.
• Clean bathrooms with mold-killing products.
• Remove or replace carpets and upholstery that have been soaked and cannot be dried promptly. Consider not using carpet in rooms or areas like bathrooms or basements that may have a lot of moisture.
• To learn more about preventing mold in your home, see the Environmental Protection Agency’s publication A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home [PDF – 1.38 MB].

If you have questions about mold that you find in your home and need it removed, call us, SERVPRO of Glenview at 847-832-9300!

Preventing Summer Fires

7/10/2018 (Permalink)

Summer brings a lot of fun, but it can also lead to dangerous fires getting out of hand

Thanks to the dry heat of summer and fun summer activities like campfires, people are at a slightly increased risk of fire-related injuries and deaths throughout the season. While fires are incredibly dangerous and should be taken seriously at all times, there are many simple ways that you can protect your home and family from suffering from the aftermath of a summer fire. Here are our best tips for preventing summer fires.

If your home is damaged by fire, We can help you make things right again.  If you need us after the fire has done it's nasty work, call SERVPRO of Glenview at 847-832-9300.

Our Best Campfire Safety Tips

These fire tips should be explained to everyone gathering around the fire, whether they are six or sixty.

• Always follow the rules for the site you are camping at when it comes to lighting fires, extinguishing fires, and monitoring fires.
• If a piece of clothing catches on fire, practice stop, drop, and roll.
• Examine your surroundings when you are planning on starting a campfire. Choose an area where it will not spread. Stay away from dry leaves, grassy areas, or tree branches that are hanging overhead.
• Don’t store any lighter fluid or flammable liquids near your campfire, as stray flames can ignite them.
• Keep campfires away from any place you are sleeping including your home and your tent. Campfires should always be lit downwind from the tent. When choosing a tent, if you frequently make campfires, always choose one with flame-retardant materials.
• Never build large campfires or bonfires, even if they seem cooler when posted on social media.
• Always have one person stay with the campfire at all times while it was lit. Going to bed? Put it out!
• Keep plenty of water and a shovel near your campfire at all times to use in an emergency. Never light a campfire if you don’t already have a method of extinguishing it laid out and ready to go.

Our Best Fireworks Safety Tips

Fireworks are a ton of fun, but also a major safety hazard during the summer months.

• Only use legal fireworks.
• Always read the instructions on each firework before using.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Don’t light fireworks on or near dry grass.
• Never wear loose-fitting clothes when handling fireworks.

FASTER TO ANY DISASTER!

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

You can count on us!

Unexpected emergencies like severe weather call for immediate action. SERVPRO of Glenview knows that immediate reaction to the disaster is important to helping you get your life back to normal. 

We strive to:

• Contact you within 1 hour from notice of loss to arrange for your service. 
• Be-on-site to begin mitigation services within 4 hours of notification.
• Provide verbal briefing of scope to you within 8 business hour of on-site arrival. 

Exceptions to our service response times may apply under certain conditions, such as a local catastrophic event or storm situation. 

We also perform pack-out services, which is removing salvageable personal property from the affected area for off-site cleaning and storage.

If you have storm damage to your home or property, call us today 847-832-9300.  Timely mitigation is the key to minimize secondary damages caused by severe storms.  

SERVPRO of Glenview is Hiring!

6/14/2018 (Permalink)

Are you interested in working with a great crew of people for a super company?  Not afraid to get a little dirty?  Enjoy doing something to help people who have just gone through disaster?  Consider checking out this position with SERVPRO of Glenview. Call today and you could start working tomorrow!

Location:  Glenview, ILL

Pay: $13-$15/HR. DOE $15-$18/HR if IICRC Certified

Hours:  Guaranteed 30 hours-40 hours a week

Requirements: Flexible to accommodate 24/7 business needs but not limited to pushing, pulling, lifting up to 50 lbs as needed.

Call Jeff at 847-832-9300 or Saul at 847-571-4117 for an interview today!

Are Your Drapes and Blinds Feeling Neglected?

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Glenview excels at cleaning fine fabrics and intricate pieces using wet or dry cleaning methods as required.We carefully inspect and test fabrics to determine which of our System’s five cleaning methods is best suited to your fabrics. We use state-of-the-art equipment designed specifically for cleaning fine fabrics.

When Should My Drapes Be Cleaned?

A good rule-of-thumb is to clean drapes approximately every two years. A recent survey by SERVPRO disclosed that the average customer believes drapes should be cleaned when they look dirty. Depending on your heating system, the amount of smokers in the home, and other factors, drapes may not show soil for two to six years. The oily atmospheric soil will gradually cause the fabric to deteriorate. Often, direct sunlight is unjustly blamed for this. You may triple the life of your draperies through professional cleaning, which is relatively inexpensive compared to replacement costs.

Professional Cleaning

When your draperies need cleaning, make certain they are dry cleaned ONLY. Only a small percentage of materials can be laundered. If in doubt, call us for advice. Be discriminating in your choice of professional dry cleaners. Some cleaners have equipment designed for clothes cleaning, while others have equipment specifically designed for draperies.

SERVPRO of Glenview has an exclusive process of dry cleaning draperies right in your home. There’s no need to have your home or office exposed while your draperies are out being cleaned. We inject a specially formulated solvent into your drapery under pressure and extract the chemical, leaving your drapes clean. This special process results in no damage or shrinkage to the material.

So, call us at 847-832-9300 and make your window treatments feel fresh and pretty again! Most importantly, you will get quality cleaning at a reasonable price and your drapes and blinds will thank you for it.

Electrical Safety. Don't Get Zapped!

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

Water & electricity - a dangerous duo!

There are many risks associated with flooding.  One of them is the danger associated with your electrical system.  It is critically important to treat all electrical appliances, equipment and outlets with caution.  Here are a few safety tips: 

• Never step into standing water that has covered electrical outlets or devices-the water could already be charged with electric current.  
• If there are downed power lines in your area, you should avoid them and notify your local power company.
• Avoid areas where there are sparks or if you hear popping or buzzing noises. 
• If you smell something that resembles plastic burning, this could indicate an electrical fire.

After any flooding event, you should consult a certified electrician to determine the extent of damage to your electrical system.  

Keeping Your Business Above Water after Water Damage

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

We can help you STAT

Flooding and water damage events at Glenview commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Glenview

SERVPRO of Glenview specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Moldy Clothes? What Can You Do?

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

Your Dryer Is Your Friend!

The reason clothing is so susceptible to mold growth is not just because of the mold-inviting circumstances within the laundry room. Generally, when it is worn, clothing collects sweat and skin cells, as well as dirt and other forms of moisture and organic material that mold loves to feast on. Then, it is placed in the laundry hamper and usually sits for days before it it is finally washed. This scenario is typical and may not result in a noticeable mold infestation, but should the soiled laundry be allowed to fester long enough, a mildew smell may be present, as well as visible signs of green, blue, gray, black, or sometimes even white mold on clothes.

Another scenario is becoming more common due to busy lifestyles and poor habits. The quick development of mold on clothes after washing may be surprising to some, but it is quite an ordinary occurrence for those with overwhelmed schedules or those who are vulnerable to procrastination because they often forget to remove clothing from the washing machine once the cycle is finished. As time passes, this leads to the rapid proliferation of mildew and mold on clothes after washing, due to the remaining moisture. Neglecting to put the wet clothes in the dryer for a few hours is not what makes mold grow. Neglecting the clothes in the washer for 6 hours or longer–sometimes a day or even a few days–is the problem. Before too long, a mildew smell will be detected in the washer and clothing. Some assume this is the residue of soap, and while that may be true to some extent, the fact of the matter is that most soaps contains lard and other organic (even synthetic) materials that mold can thrive off of. The smell is not necessarily the residue of soap, but an indication that mold is producing a secondary metabolite–the mildew smell–from consuming that soap.

What is a natural detergent to kill mold?  Here is what you will need.

• Two 5 oz. organic castile soap bars (naturally-scented with lavender or peppermint is great but non-scented works just the same)
• 3 cups of washing soda (no, it’s not the same as baking soda)
• 2 cups of borax
• 30 drops of  certified-pure lavender essential oil (optional but highly advisable for a mold killing laundry detergent)

Once you have all the materials, this is what to do. 

1. Cut the castile soap bars into small pieces or chunks. (This is crucial to avoid damaging the food processor.)
2. Place the cut castile soap pieces or chunks in the food processor bowl. Pulse the soap on high until what remains are large crumbs.
3. Add the washing soda to the food processor and pulse for 1 minute. (After pulsing, all the ingredients should be in powder form and well-combined. If not, try running the food processor again and then mixing with a spoon.)
4. Empty the washing soda and castile soap into the storage container. Add the borax and blend well with a spoon.
5. Add the essential oils of choice (optional but beneficial) and be sure to mix well.

Do not place this mixture into the drawer or dispenser, place it directly in with the laundry.

Mother's Day Special

5/11/2018 (Permalink)

Get something you know she REALLY wants!

Mother's Day is almost here!  Are you at wits end trying to figure out what she would want?  Does she have all of her favorite jewelry and really doesn't want any more?  Is she fussy about the clothes that she wants, or needs?  Not sure what fragrance she prefers?  We have something that everyone would truly appreciate!

During the Month of May, we are offering a Mother's Day Special that features 25% off all of our cleaning services!

We clean:

• Carpet, upholstery, drapes and blinds
• Ceilings, Walls and hard floors
• Air ducts and HVAC

Call SERVPRO of Glenview today at 847-832-9300 and set up something really special for the special Moms in your life today!

(And while you are at it, arrange something special for yourself as well ;) 

GOT MOLD?!

5/9/2018 (Permalink)

Hmmmm...What nasty stuff is lurking within THIS corner and why!

Overview

Mold is a major-league nuisance. It blackens the grout lines in your shower, discolors drywall, shows up as black spots on siding, darkens decks, and grows on and rots damp wood everywhere. Even worse, it can be bad for your health. Mold releases microscopic spores that cause allergic reactions, runny noses and sneezing, as well as irritating, even injurious, odors

If you have seepage or a leak that hasn’t been addressed, mold may have infiltrated the drywall and internal surfaces of your home.  Disturbing big infestations can be bad for your health, particularly if you are an allergy sufferer or have a weakened immune system. When you discover an extensive mold problem, we recommend that you call in a professional, who knows what kills mold, to handle the problem of how to remove it and stop it at its source. And even if you hire professionals, read through this article to understand how to keep the mold from spreading throughout your house.

How to identify mold

Mold is everywhere. It’s a type of fungus that grows from tiny spores that float in the air. It can grow almost anywhere that spores land and find moisture and a comfortable temperature, between 40 and 100 degrees F. Typically that includes about every damp place in your home.

You can easily spot the most visible type of mold, called mildew, which begins as tiny, usually black spots but often grows into larger colonies. It’s the black stuff you see in the grout lines in your shower, on damp walls, and outdoors on the surfaces of deck boards and painted siding, especially in damp and shady areas. A mildewed surface is often difficult to distinguish from a dirty one. To test for mildew, simply dab a few drops of household bleach on the blackened area. If it lightens after one to two minutes, you have mildew. If the area remains dark, you probably have dirt.

Mildew is a surface type of mold that won’t damage your home’s structure. But other types of mold cause rot. Probe the suspect area with a screwdriver or other sharp tool. If the wood is soft or crumbles, the fungi have taken hold and rot has begun.

If you have a high concentration of mold, you may smell it. If you detect the typical musty odor, check for mold on damp carpets, damp walls, damp crawlspaces and wet wood under your floors, wet roof sheathing and other damp areas. Have these infestations cleaned right away before they get worse.

Tips for Mold Prevention

After the mold is removed from your home, you’ll want to prevent it in the future. The key to stopping most mold is to control dampness. The worst infestations usually occur in damp crawlspaces, in attics and walls where water has leaked in from the outside, and in basements with poor foundation drainage. Stopping leaks, ensuring good ventilation in attics, keeping crawlspaces dry and routing water away from the foundation are the best defenses on how to get rid of mold.

Mildewcide in paint is usually effective for controlling surface mold in damp rooms like bathrooms and outside in shady areas. Many paints already have mildewcide in them. Check with your paint dealer to be sure.

Call a Pro!

If you find mold in your home and have questions or are concerned about the extent of the problem, call SERVPRO of Glenview at 847-832-9300 and we will be glad to do a detailed inspection to find the source of the mold and give you advice about what should be done. 

Protecting Your Home and Family From Fires!

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

Know your escape plan!

In the United States, there is a house fire reported every 90 seconds in 2016!  That is a lot of fires!  85% of all fire related deaths occur in homes, so you should always be prepared!  You may have seconds to minutes to escape a burning building because these fires can start and spread very rapidly. 

First thing every homeowner should do, is install smoke alarms.  They should be on every level and should be inside, or just outside every sleeping quarters.  Make sure that they are interconnected, and tested every month.  While smoke alarms are a great way to identify the danger, the best thing that can be done is to put a sprinkler system in your home.  This may be a costly prevention method, but it can save your life and your property. 

The next important piece of advice is to make an evacuation plan!  Sit down with your family about twice a year and make sure everyone knows the quickest way out of your home.  Make sure that there are two separate ways out of the building and that everyone is aware of what to do in case of a fire.    

If fire does strike your home, we are here for you at SERVPRO of Glenview - 847-832-9300.

Ten Reasons to Have Your Carpets Cleaned Professionally

4/20/2018 (Permalink)

Fresh Clean Carpets

As the weather warms and people head outdoors, it’s a great time to free your home’s carpets from the accumulation of dirt that comes with the Midwest winter weather. 

Here are the top ten reasons to have carpets cleaned professionally.

Properly cleaning and maintaining carpets:

1. Prolongs the life of carpeting. Regular carpet cleaning using the extraction method can increase the life of carpets significantly, protecting your floor-covering investment.
   
   
2. Protects indoor air quality. Carpets trap airborne pollutants; however, eventually those pollutants must be removed in order to protect the carpet and maintain indoor air quality.
   
   
3. Makes carpets easier to maintain. Most carpet soiling is made up of dry soils; when carpets are kept thoroughly cleaned on a regular basis, most dry soils can be removed with regular vacuuming.
   
   
4. Removes spots and stains. As with other soils, spots and stains can attract more soiling. Removing them promptly protects carpeting from damage.
   
   
5. Prevents buildup of allergens and bacteria. Moist soiling of carpets can result in the buildup of several unhealthy contaminants.
   
   
6. Enhances the appearance of any room. Clean, well-maintained carpets speak volumes about the overall cleanliness of a home or facility.
   
   
7. Improves worker morale. Workers feel better about their work environment when it is clean. This includes the carpeting.
   
   
8. Makes carpeting look and feel clean and fresh.
   
   
9. Removes dust mites and other pests that may have found a home in carpets.
   
   
10. Maintains the carpet’s warranty. Most carpet warranties require that carpets be cleaned using the extraction method within a specific amount of time, usually every 12 to 18 months.

 Call us at SERVPRO of Glenview to schedule your carpet cleaning at 847-832-9300.  Enjoy the feeling of barefoot clean carpets!

Summer is Coming. Fresh Air Inside and Out!

4/18/2018 (Permalink)

Duct Cleaning. Have a SERVPRO Professional Do it Right!

Summer is coming!  This is the best time to have your ventilation system's ductwork made fresh and clean after dust, debris, animal hair and other contaminants have been circulating through your vents during the winter months.  Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your home or business.

If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating odors, dust and other contaminates.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals routinely inspect the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC).  Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment. This can in turn save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.

However, duct cleaning is not always necessary. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your system.

The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:

• Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
• May help to eliminate offensive odors.
• Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

We also recommend to contact us, SERVPRO of Glenview.  We have the expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service. Our residential cleaning services will ease the burden of the constant maintenance cleaning of your home, but will also create a safe, clean, and comfortable living environment for you and your family. Call us today at 847-832-9300.

How Do You Choose the Right Company to Restore you Commercial Property?

4/18/2018 (Permalink)

You can be confident that SERVPRO will get you back up and running!

You can depend on SERVPRO to be there when you need us!

When it comes to small pipe leaks, or drywall repair, most business owners think that they can probably handle that themselves.  When it comes to your entire building flooding or experiencing a fire, you would have to call a professional restoration company.  But who do you choose?  With the amount of restoration companies popping up daily, it’s hard to choose who would be the best to hire.  When hiring a restoration company, keep certain things in mind.

Go to their website

This may sound a little scary, given the amount of scams and false information on the internet, but you will know immediately if their website is legit.  Some things to think about would be links to their services.  Look to see if they have links that talk about fire or water damage, and the process that is performed in these services.  If it is a professional website, it will be clear, concise, and informative.

Give them a call and quiz them

Once you have reviewed the websites, come up with a few questions you may have for the company.  If they are professionals, they should be able to answer the questions without asking the manager, or putting you on hold.  They should be able to give you clear examples of how they have worked with these issues in the past.  If they become annoyed, or frustrated, then you know they are not the ones for you!  Professionals need to be compassionate towards their customers, because they are already dealing with a mess. 

Read the Testimonials

Yelp, Google, and Facebook are great ways to read the testimonials of the restoration company you are potentially going to be hiring.  Companies can never delete these reviews, they can only receive good reviews to counteract the bad ones, which makes it a very accurate depiction of what kind of company you may be dealing with.  Look at the good and bad reviews and make a educated assessment on the type of company they may be.

If you ever have any questions, give SERVPRO of Glenview a call at (847) 832-9300

IS SPRING THE BEST TIME TO CLEAN?

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

May, 2018

Spring seems to be the perfect time of the year for a deep cleaning home due to the change of the seasons. The weather is perfect to start open windows and let the air flow through your home.

The truth of the matter is that spring cleaning could be the most boring task that needs to be done at home or could be the easiest, all depends of the way you arrange this tasks and the actions you take every day in order to have a clean and a cozy home.

Every Homewood new home or old home has its own unique characteristics and needs when it comes to straightening things up, there are a few basics that anyone can fall back on when it comes to spring cleaning.

Kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, living areas, for washing, replacing, dusting, sorting…not sure where to start? Don’t feel overwhelmed, here are a few handy tips that you can also use as a check list to make your spring cleaning easier and fun than a summer breeze. We also recommend you to have all the cleaning supplies you need beforehand so you won’t be tempted to put it off.

Kitchen

We recommend to start cleaning something you like to see shiny so this task will be more appealing as you will see the results immediately.

• Start cleaning inside and outside of refrigerator, and take the opportunity to throw out expired food products, since you will be emptying the shelves to clean them.
• Clean stove and oven and wipe down microwave
• Wipe down shelves in cupboards and inside drawers
• Clean garbage disposal blades by grinding ice and freshen it with baking soda and/or citrus rinds
• Clean or replace if needed it your range hood filters
• Finally Sweep and mop floors with a nice clean fragrance…Your done!

Bathrooms

This task could be one of those you would like to leave it to the last, but think of the idea of enter to your fresh and clean bathroom, having a nice bath or listening to your family saying…This is great and smells fantastic!!!

• Wipe down shower and tub and re-caulk if your caulking has cracks or is moldy
• Clean toilet, countertops, and mirrors
• Sweep and mop the floor
• Wipe down shelves in cupboards and inside drawers
• Clean/wash bath mats, shower curtain, rugs, etc.

Bedrooms

In case you have many Bedrooms at home you can start with one per day so the task will be easy and you won’t get tired and overwhelm with the rest of the house cleaning.

• Wash all bedding including your mattress cover
• Wash pillows (or replace if needed it)
• Rotate and flip mattress
• Organize and clean out closet ( take the opportunity to storage in bags clothing you don’t use and keep them in a place you can see it ready to take it for dotation’s)

Living Areas

This kind of areas are the most used at home so we recommend to leave it to the last so you can clean it and organize it properly.

• Vacuum/sweep and mop floor
• Polish furniture (You can start weekly with a piece so you don’t get tired doing it at once)
• Dust electronics/media centers other.
• Organize DVDs, remote controls, magazines, etc.
• Clean sofas and pillows

Throughout the House

This tasks can be done one per day and depending of the amount of work needed it

• Dust furniture surfaces and ceiling fans
• Vacuum, wash or dry clean all carpets, rugs, and draperies
• Wipe down walls, baseboards, and light switches
• Wash windows (inside and out) and windowsills
• Wipe down blinds
• Change air filters
• Apply a light coat of wax to wood cabinets and furniture 

Seasonal Maintenance:

The following tasks are more for maintenance but its essentials you take the time to do it as they will reflect the good conditions of your house and the safety of your family.

• Test all smoke detectors (this should be done monthly)
• Check caulking and weather stripping around windows and doors, inside and out
• Check for cracks on the exterior of your home and seal them up with proper caulking
• Clean sliding door track and apply silicone lubricant if necessary
• Oil moving parts of garage door
• Visually inspect roof for broken shingles and clean rain gutters
• Check your attic for evidence of roof leaks, and ensure your attic soffit vents are not blocked with insulation – if they are, move the insulation back to its original location on the attic floor
• Pressure wash soffits, walkways, and roofing to rid of mildew

We also recommend to contact us, SERVPRO have the expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service. Our residential cleaning services will ease the burden of the constant maintenance cleaning of your home, but will also create a safe, clean, and comfortable living environment for you and your family.

You know SERVPRO as a leader in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration, our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call today! SERVPRO of Glenview specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke, or water damage. 

Don’t wait more, and be ready to enjoy your fresh and clean home organizing the activities during the coming months with this useful checklist or by contacting us, don’t rush for spring or summer time we are here to bring you a hand!

Winter Weather Can Lead to Bursting Pipes

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

This flooded basement was cause by a frozen pipe that burst.

The cold Chicago winters can lead to many different types of problems for a home. 1 such problem is that of busted pipes. A busted pipe can lead to serious flooding of a home.

Here is a before photo of just how severe the damage can be. Lucky for this Glenview resident, SERVPRO of Glenview was just around the corner and was able to mitigate the loss with minimal damage. After the clean up efforts were completed, the home owner was very pleased and even referred SERVPRO of Glenview to her place of business for additional restoration work!! 

Space Heater Safety

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Warns About the Dangers of Space Heaters When Not Used Properly

Fire does not care what season it is or whether or not it’s cold outside. Winter related fires are extremely common, especially when you are trying hard to keep warm. 
 
Our offices in Glenview have experience in fire damage from space heaters and can provide you with some tips to help avoid having to deal with these types of destructive events this winter season. 
 
SERVPRO of Glenview technicians understand that accidents happen. Placing space heaters too close to other objects or using the wrong type of heater in a particular area can cause severe problems. Please take a moment to consider some factors leading to these fires.
 
Oil Heaters - Should be used in areas where there is the possibility of moisture. This eliminates any electrical hazards that may be present due to water conductivity. Always keep a safe distance to avoid contact burns. 
 
Electric Heaters - These heaters come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be useful for many areas in your home. However, they should never be left unattended. Thinking of electric heaters as giant toasters can help you understand how important it is to keep a constant eye on them. Make sure you have sufficient wattage to run the device and never use extension cords.
 
Our SERVPRO of Glenview staff gets an incredible amount of space heater-related calls every winter. People are trying to stay warm and use space heaters quite often for this purpose. However, using a space heater does not need to cause so many problems during a cold spell. Just use common sense, and always follow the directions of the manufacturer.

The professional technicians at SERVPRO of Glenview state that you follow a few simple guidelines when operating your space heaters. 
 
1) Always place space heaters on a flat, solid surface for proper stabilization. 
 
2) Purchase heaters with an automatic shut-off feature to prevent dangers from tipping. 
 
3) Maintain proper spacing between heaters and other objects in your home. 
 
4) Never leave children or pets unsupervised around operating heaters. 
 
5) Shut your heaters off properly before leaving your home or going to sleep. 
 
Following these guidelines does not ensure that you will never have to deal with fire damage from space heaters. However, you are less likely to have an unwanted consequence. If this sort of incident still strikes your home this winter season, make the call to our offices immediately. We will respond quickly and provide you with the services you need to get back to normal fast. 
 
Call SERVPRO of Glenview today at (847) 832-9300

Glenview Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

6/26/2017 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Glenview for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Glenview specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 847-832-9300

SERVPRO of Glenview proud member of the Glenview Chamber of Commerce

11/13/2016 (Permalink)

The Glenview Chamber of Commerce works to make Glenview a destination of choice for businesses and their owners, and for the customers and community that contribute to make Glenview a great place to live and work.

SERVPRO of Glenview is 1 of nearly 500 companies that are apart of the Glenview Chamber of Commerce. For over 90 years the Chamber has served as a voice of business in Glenview. The Glenview Chamber serves as a connection for  business information, business events, and great marketing opportunities. 

For the past 5 year we at SERVPRO of Glenview have been a proud member of the Glenview Chamber of Commerce. Through the different events, from ribbon cuttings to holiday parades we have had not but a great experience with the Chamber. On behalf of SERVPRO of Glenview, and nearly 500 local business we would like to say "THANKS" for all the help and support. 

SERVPRO of Glenview is locally owned and operated—so we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country. 

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Glenview
• Northfield
• Golf
• Northbrook
• Des Plaines
• Nile
• Wilmette
• Morton Grove
• Chicago

Discount of flood insurance in Glenview?

11/13/2016 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Glenview we have seen our fair share of flooded homes.'

If you do not have flood insurance, talk to your insurance agent. Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover damage from floods. Flood insurance is only available to those participating communities in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Because of our floodplain management programs that attempt to protect us from the multiple flooding hazards, Glenview is part of the NFIP and, thus, residents are able to obtain flood insurance. Additionally, because the Village participates in FEMA’s CRS program, flood insurance premiums are discounted.

Make sure to check your policy to ensure you have adequate coverage. Usually these policies cover the building structure, but not the contents. There is a 30-day waiting period before flood insurance coverage becomes effective. Plan ahead; do not wait until a flood is predicted before purchasing flood insurance.

If you are building inside the floodplain, the purchase of flood insurance is mandatory if using a federally regulated/insured bank for a loan. In the unfortunate situation your home or business does flood, rest assure SERVPRO of Glenview is only a phone call away. 24 hours a day 365 days a year we are here to serve you and make it "Like it Never Even Happened!"

847-832-9300

Commercial facility with a Flood

11/13/2016 (Permalink)

Glenview commercial facility being mitigated by Servpro of Glenview

Flood and water damage occurs in the blink of an eye. Water damage is an unexpected event that can change the course of any business and its day to day operations causing much inconvenience. SERVPRO of Glenview has been called on to dry many commercial and industrial facilities after water damage has occured. While water damage may occur from such an incident, a quick and timely response may make the difference in preventing further secondary damage that may occur. Due to the damages there are generally occasions when air quality and temperature need to be maintained. SERVPRO of Glenview will step up to meet the challenges you face in getting your business up and running. We have the equipment to dry your commercial facility in a timely manner. In the event there is a need for specialty restoration equipment, support services are lined up so that we can meet those needs for you as well.

Be Better Prepared with a Fire Safety Plan from SERVPRO of Glenview

11/9/2016 (Permalink)

The holidays are approaching and many families are finalizing plans for elaborate meals, get-togethers with friends, and decorating with festive lights. Amidst all this planning, SERVPRO of Glenview reminds homeowners that they may be overlooking the most important plan they can make—a fire safety plan.

Each year, statistics show the incidence of home cooking and candle fires peaks during the holiday season. This tends to focus homeowners on fire prevention precautions—and that’s a good thing. To truly protect your family from the dangers of a home fire, at the holidays and throughout the year, you need to start with a fire safety plan. Developing a fire safety plan and practicing it regularly with your family is the most important step you can take to help prevent a house fire from turning into a devastating tragedy.

SERVPRO of Glenview is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and our disaster response professionals know from experience how devastating a home fire can be. This is why SERVPRO of Glenview has teamed up with the American Red Cross by supporting the ARC Disaster Responder program, and in particular the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign. 

Fire prevention and fire safety planning are two very different things. Fire prevention planning helps control or eliminate the causes of a fire. Fire safety planning helps prevent injury and loss of life when a fire does break out. To protect your family and your property, you need both.

For more fire prevention and fire safety tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit www.SERVPROglenview.com. 

Keep your Glenview business prepared with an ERP

11/7/2016 (Permalink)

Disaster can strike a business in the blink of an eye, and when it does those who are prepared for it can bounce back much quicker then those who have no plan. In fact, up to 50% of all companies that are struck by a disaster can NEVER bounce back from it!

SERVPRO of Glenview can help your business get back on track after a disaster by developing an Emergency Ready Profile. The ERP will minimize your business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. What exactly to do, and what exactly to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.  

The Emergency Ready Profile is a tool that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It serves as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By using your own Emergency Ready Profile, SERVPRO of Glenview can help reduce the impact of any disaster, natural or man-made. We are a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order. 

Contact SERVPRO of Glenview for a NO COST assessment of your facility at 847-832-9300!! 

Restoring Your Glenview Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

7/8/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Glenview commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Glenview

SERVPRO of Glenview specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Does Your Glenview Home Have A Mold Problem?

7/7/2016 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

? Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.

? Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.

? Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.

? Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.

? Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.

? Even higher-than- normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today 

(847) 832-9300

Glenview Smoke and Soot Cleanup

7/7/2016 (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 Glenview 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

Glenview 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

7/7/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Glenview is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – (847) 832-9300

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable.  You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Glenview has the specificwater damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. Thesequestions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

? Your name and contact information

? Your insurance information (if applicable)

? The street address of the water-damaged home or business

? When did the flooding or water damage occur?

? What caused the water damage (if known)?

? Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Glenview

SERVPRO of Glenview specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

How to Clean and Dry a Flooded Wilmette, IL Basement

4/30/2013 (Permalink)

Wall and All Surface Cleaner is excellent for general cleaning.

Properly cleaning and drying requires the right products and tools; at this Wilmette home with a flooded basement SERVPRO Wall and All Plus was selected for its ideal alkalinity. SERVPRO Wall and All Plus has a pH of 11-12.5 making it an excellent solvent for breaking down oils and organic dirt left behind from flooding without being overly corrosive like bleach and ammonia. Once the cleaning has been done, dehumidifiers and air movers will be used to dry everything out.

SERVPRO of Glenview was called in after the April 18th flooding event that hit the Chicagoland area to make this basement look "Just like it never even happened."