Save Lives and Prevent Loss: Fire Prevention Tips for North Shore Businesses

Fire Prevention Starts Before the Flames

In the North Shore of Chicago—home to historic buildings, modern offices, and bustling retail districts—fire is a silent threat. Business owners in towns like Evanston, Wilmette, and Winnetka face year-round fire risks, from outdated electrical systems to unattended appliances.

While fire damage is often sudden, the costliest damage typically happens when prevention fails. According to the NFPA, U.S. businesses lose billions annually to fire—but many of these losses are preventable with a strong plan, regular inspections, and a safety-first culture.

Here’s how to protect your commercial property, employees, and operations.

Top Fire Risks in Commercial Properties

Whether you own a restaurant in Highland Park or an office in Glenview, these are common risks to address:

• Overloaded electrical outlets or outdated wiring
• Improper use of space heaters
• Unattended cooking equipment
• Blocked emergency exits
• Improper storage of flammable materials
• Neglected fire extinguishers or alarms

North Shore’s older building stock, especially in downtown Evanston and East Wilmette, often includes aging electrical infrastructure that must be proactively maintained to prevent disaster.

Workplace Fire Extinguisher Checklist

According to OSHA and the NFPA, workplace extinguishers must be maintained annually by professionals. Monthly visual checks are also essential:

• Inspect for corrosion, dents, or leaks
• Ensure pressure gauge is in the green
• Confirm pull-pin and tamper seal are intact
• Verify inspection tag is dated and initialed
• Keep access clear and labeled

Schedule professional servicing annually—and train your staff to recognize extinguisher types and uses.

Create (and Post) a Written Fire Prevention Plan

A written plan isn’t just smart—it’s required under OSHA standards. Even in small businesses, a posted fire plan can save lives and minimize chaos.

Your plan should include:

• Building layout and emergency exit maps
• Fire protection system locations (extinguishers, alarms, sprinklers)
• Evacuation routes and roles
• Contact info for emergency response
• Offsite meeting location

Space Heater and Appliance Safety in the Workplace

Space heaters, toasters, and coffee machines might seem harmless—but they’re among the top causes of workplace fires.

• Require manager approval before heater use
• Place heaters at least 3 feet from any flammable material
• Never leave appliances plugged in after hours
• Use UL-listed models with auto shutoff features

Don’t allow power cords to run under rugs or behind furniture. These cords generate heat and can spark fires if frayed or compressed.

Reduce Office Fire Risks by Managing Clutter and Cords

• Store papers and boxes away from outlets and heating elements
• Never daisy-chain extension cords
• Unplug devices that aren’t used daily
• Keep escape routes and hallways clear of furniture and inventory

When Fire Strikes, We’re Here to Help

At ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons – North Shore, we’ve helped businesses recover from devastating fire events in:

• Evanston (Dempster Corridor, Downtown, Ridge Historic District)
• Wilmette (West Wilmette, No Man’s Land, Kenilworth Gardens)
• Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Northbrook, Lake Forest, Glenview, and beyond

We don’t just restore your building—we help restore your operations and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How often should fire extinguishers be inspected in a commercial building?
A: Professionally once per year, with monthly in-house visual inspections.

Q: What should a business fire prevention plan include?
A: Evacuation procedures, building layout, equipment locations, emergency contacts, and assigned roles.

Q: Are commercial fire losses usually covered by insurance?
A: Yes, but coverage depends on your policy. We assist with claim documentation.

Q: Do you offer fire damage restoration for businesses on the North Shore?
A: Absolutely. We serve Evanston, Glenview, Wilmette, and all nearby suburbs with emergency cleanup, odor removal, soot cleanup, and reconstruction.

Q: What’s your response time for commercial fire emergencies?
A: We’re available 24/7, with crews dispatched from our Skokie hub.

About ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons – North Shore

Founded in Chicago in 1929, ServiceMaster is the oldest disaster restoration brand in the United States. Locally, ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons – North Shore brings over 40 years of experience helping businesses across Cook and Lake Counties recover from fire, smoke, and water damage.

Led by Sam Simon, an IICRC Master Fire & Water Restorer and co-author of RESTORE: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset, our team is:

• IICRC-certified
• RIA-member
• BBB Torch Award winner
• Chicago Star Award recipient

We combine local trust with national strength.

Our Commercial Fire Restoration Services Include:

• 24/7 emergency response
• Soot and smoke odor removal
• Structural and content cleaning
• Pack-out and secure storage
• HVAC system cleaning
• Full reconstruction and remodeling

📞 Call us anytime at (847) 316-9145
🌐 Visit: servicemaster-restorationbysimons.com