Smoke detectors are inexpensive and can be installed easily. They are available at most department, drug, or hardware stores. As a fire burns, it moves upward then outward. This action alone can save a tremendous amount of property. It cuts down on the smoke damage and makes conditions more favorable for firefighters to enter the building.
Fire can travel up, inside the walls undetected for quite a long time.
Firefighters tear open walls that are suspect to hidden fires. Fires that are left undetected can re-ignite several hours later and cause extensive damage. The fire report is a public document and can be obtained by anyone. Reports and available through the Glenside Fire Department which is located at 1608 Bloomingdale Road, Glendale Heights, IL 60139. You will need to know the date and time of the fire and the correct address where the incident occurred.