Deadly Summer Weather

Everyone has seen extreme weather this year, but most people don’t understand the severity of Mother Nature.  Unknowingly to most, this summer has been one of the deadliest in the entire nation. Between wild fires and flooding, natural disasters and weather have wrecked havoc in every state. This year, heat, flooding and lightening have been the three main causes of deaths within our country. 

• Heat being the number one culprit of deaths this year, the Midwest and East have experienced extreme temperatures mixed with high humidity. This combo can cause heat exhaustion, illness and death if unaccustomed to. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reported over 600 deaths last year alone from heat.  When increasing temperatures rise to extremes many people do not know how to prepare for it.  This can cause dehydration and illness that can be mistaken for fatigue.  Children and the elderly are especially susceptible to heat stroke, illness and death. 

First thing to remember is to NEVER leave a child or pet in the car when running errands. Temperatures can rise rapidly even after a couple minutes. Keep in mind to check up on the elderly if they live alone.  Heat stroke and dehydration are common.

•  Flooding has been another issue in the Midwest and East Coast. Heavy rainfall in short periods of time bring flash flooding in areas that normally wouldn’t flood. Each year on average about 100 people die from flooding. Always have a flood and evacuation plan in case of an emergency.  Always follow local authority warnings and evacuate if told.

• Lightening is also another issue that has taken many lives this summer. Warm, summer months are popular times for thunderstorms and lightening. On average, lightening kills around 30-40 people a year. Keep in mind you are at risk of being hit even if it is not raining. If you hear thunder, lightening is still a threat.  To prevent a disaster from happening, take shelter within your home or covered area until the storm has passed.

Here at ServiceMaster DAK we want to ensure our customers are safe. Taking precautions and preparing yourself before a disaster will keep you and your family safe this summer.

If you are in need of a restoration company, call us, ServiceMaster DAK at (847) 983-7400

Chicago Flooding, ServiceMaster DAK, IL

If you live in Chicago, you experienced the lovely weather a few weeks back. Torrential downpours, flash flooding and endless amounts of basements under water has cause the Chicagoland area to be put on hold. When rains are coming down hard, highways closed and cars underwater, it makes it very difficult to handle the flooding problem. When your basement sits under water for periods of hours and in some cases here, days, you can have an even larger loss on your hands. Keep in mind if it's just rain water you are dealing with, drying out and mold is your biggest concern. Yet if you experience sewage backup within the flood, expert sanitation is required. High levels of bacteria and black mold can cause serious health problems and extensive damage to drywall, flooring and furniture. The following are just a couple steps to take when you first notice you have water damage.

-The first moment you notice water damage and flooding, call ServiceMaster DAK. If you are out of state, make sure to find a local service provider here.

-When large amounts of properties have been effected by flooding, the calls are in abundance. Make sure to call us immediately to start the cleanup process.

-The minute you notice your home flooding, try and collect anything of importance and move it to higher ground. Furniture, clothing, perishable goods and anything else that can be quickly moved.

-Carpeting and drywall can be replaced, just remember items that can't be.

-Call your insurance company. If you have flood insurance, see what is covered and your next plan of action.

-Don't attempt to clean the flood on your own. This can cause further damage while being hazardous. You don't know what is sitting in that water.

-Remember, don't hesitate to call ServiceMaster DAK to clean and restore all flooding damage!