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Scene Cleaners

Tom Allen
1020 W Fullerton Ave Unit G, Addison, IL 60101
Contractor's Bio

Water Damage Restoration in Chicago, IL

Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.

Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from Roosevelt University in Chicago to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Chicago, IL is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.

Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Chicago. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.

Disaster Review

What Our Clients Are Saying

Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:

insurance claim process
Navigating the insurance claim process

We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.

quality completion
Scheduling for a quick and quality completion

We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.

You might also be thinking about:

safety and health

Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.

assessment

Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.

expenses

Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.

structural

Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.

Protecting

Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.

You might also be thinking
might also be thinking
Minimizing

Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.

trustworthy

Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.

Ensuring

Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.

updates

Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.

involved

Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.

At Disaster Response

At Disaster Response, It's All About You

Like The Rookery Building in Chicago, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Chicago.

Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.

We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.

The Disaster Response Difference

number-one

Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes

In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.

number-two

Insurance Advocacy

Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.

number-three

Satisfaction Guaranteed

We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.

Disaster-Response Difference
Disaster Owner

Tom Allen

Scene Cleaners

Disaster Response Introducing Scene Cleaners: The Premier Choice for Emergency Clean-Up**

At Disaster 911, we're elevating the standard with ( Scene Cleaners ), our trusted go-to contractor for emergency clean-up services. While others may settle for the status quo, ( Scene Cleaners ) takes an innovative approach to restoration.

From water and fire damage to mold remediation, ( Scene Cleaners ) doesn't just follow industry norms-they set new ones. Our rigorous vetting process ensures that ( Scene Cleaners ) exceeds expectations, delivering cutting-edge solutions for your emergency needs.

When you choose Disaster 911 and ( Scene Cleaners ), you're opting for a dynamic partnership that prioritizes effective, next-level recovery. Don't settle for the ordinary-when disaster strikes, choose the best in emergency response.

1020 W Fullerton Ave Unit G, Addison, IL 60101

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Guide-Water-Damage.png

Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Chicago, IL

Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.

As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to Grand Regency of South Shore in Chicago for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.

What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Chicago, IL, Different from Others?

One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Chicago?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.

But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:

Investing-damage

Cost

Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.

specialized training

Technicians

Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to

disasters happen quicker

Time

Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Millennium Park in Chicago. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.

significant investments

Tools

Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.

helping with water damage

Process

For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.

Reliable Water Damage

Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network

We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.

What Does Disaster Response Fix?

As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Chicago, IL, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.

  • Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
  • Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
  • Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
  • Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to Pullman National Historical Park in Chicago, we can repair and restore it.
Disaster Response Fix

Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.

What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?

We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Chicago restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:

Infrared

Infrared Cameras

Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.

Moisture

Moisture Meters

We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.

Air Movers

Air Movers

This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.

Generators

Ozone Generators

These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.

Xtractor

Xtreme Xtractor

This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.

Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About

Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Chicago, IL, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:

Clean Water Damage

Clean Water Damage

Clean

This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.

Gray Water Damage

Gray Water Damage

Gray-Water

Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.

Black Water Damage

Black Water Damage

Black-Water

The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.

If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:

Stop the Source of Water
  • Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
  • Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
  • Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.

Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Chicago, IL

Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.

We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.

After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.

Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.

The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.

  • Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
  • Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
  • Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
  • Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.
Disaster Response Fix

The Water Damage Company in Chicago, IL, You Can Trust

When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a Alinea in Chicago. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.

As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.

Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Chicago rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.

Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!

Latest News in Chicago, IL

Thursday Night Bingo- Chicago South Elks 1596

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Beverly-MtGreenwood|Featured EventVicki Downs, NeighborFeb6Thu, Feb 6, 2025 at 9:00 AM4428 Midlothian Turnpike, Crestwood, IL, 60445...

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Beverly-MtGreenwood|Featured Event

Vicki Downs, Neighbor

Feb6

Thu, Feb 6, 2025 at 9:00 AM
4428 Midlothian Turnpike, Crestwood, IL, 60445

Come out and join us Thursday Nights for Bingo!!

All American Progressive Pot Game is worth 12K+

Early Bird Game 6:30

Regular Bingo 7:00

Chicago South Elks 1596 Lodge

4428 Midlothian Turnpke, Crestwood

708-597-7465

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Become a Certified Financial Planner!

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Get Pequod's pies for the Big Game! Order by Tuesday for Friday delivery.

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Chicagoland Hooters Restaurants Presents Breaking Barriers and Building Legacies

In honor of Black History Month, Hooters Restaurants is presenting “Breaking Barriers and Building Legacies: Celebrating Black Brilliance and Achievement” in partnership with Leo High School (7901 S Sangamon Street) in Chicago. Each week during the month of February, a guest speaker will discuss their inspiring journey to excellence followed by a question-and-answer segment. Guest speakers include former NBA player Bobby Simmons, President and General Manager of NBCUniversal Kevin Cross, Actor LaRoyce Hawkins and The Law School M...

In honor of Black History Month, Hooters Restaurants is presenting “Breaking Barriers and Building Legacies: Celebrating Black Brilliance and Achievement” in partnership with Leo High School (7901 S Sangamon Street) in Chicago. Each week during the month of February, a guest speaker will discuss their inspiring journey to excellence followed by a question-and-answer segment. Guest speakers include former NBA player Bobby Simmons, President and General Manager of NBCUniversal Kevin Cross, Actor LaRoyce Hawkins and The Law School Mentor.

Each week as part of the program, representatives from the Chicagoland area Hooters restaurants are awarding a $1,000 college scholarship to a student interested in pursuing a career in the hospitality industry or business management. The scholarship recipients were selected from their essays that were reviewed by a panel from HMC Hospitality Group, which owns and operates Hooters Restaurants in the Chicagoland area. In total $4,000 in scholarships will be awarded to Leo High School students this February.

The month-long program kicked off on February 3 with guest speaker Bobby Simmons (former NBA player, Director of Player Development of the NBAPA, real estate investor, entrepreneur and owner of Succezz Sneaker Boutique and restaurant, Society 2201). During the assembly the representatives from Chicagoland Hooters presented Leo High School senior KamRon Dove with a $1,000 college scholarship.

Upcoming Guest Speaker Schedule:

Monday, February 10 - Kevin Cross: President and General Manager of NBCUniversal. Emmy award winning, 30-year media industry veteran and civic leader, Former Vice President of NBC Sports, named Who’s Who in Chicago Business for 2025, and sits on multiple executive boards including Good Sports and the Museum of Science & Industry.

Tuesday, February 18 - The Law School Mentor: Yoshi Haynie and Devante Johnson, an organization dedicated to providing law school students with the tools, resources and connections to thrive and not just survive law school.

Week of 2/24 (Date TBD) - LaRoyce Hawkins: Actor, stand-up comedian, and spoken word artist that stars on NBC hit drama Chicago, P.D., Community leader and Brand Ambassador for Hood Development in Harvey, IL.

“We look forward to being a part of the assemblies and presenting the scholarships this February in honor of Black History Month. We had a great response from Leo High School students with their essay submissions,” said HMC Hospitality Group Chief Marketing Officer Denise Williams. In 2024, Hooters awarded scholarships to two Leo High School students in partnership with local non-profit organizations, Pulse of Perseverance and ChiGivesBack.

HMC Hospitality Group, founders of the Hooters concept, own and operate 22 Hooters Restaurants in Tampa Bay and Chicagoland and three Hoots locations in Chicagoland. For over 40 years, the Original Hooters group has been known for its World Famous Chicken Wings, fun atmosphere, and legendary service from the iconic Hooters Girl. For more information about HMC Hospitality Group please visit www.originalhooters.com or follow them at Twitter @originalhooters, Instagram @originalhooters and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/originalhooters

Illinois at ‘high' level for respiratory illness following ‘notable increase' in flu cases

As respiratory viruses spread across the nation, Illinois too has experienced an uptick in such illnesses, with the state's Department of Public Health reporting a "notable increase" in flu-related emergency department visits and hospital admissions.The Illinois Department of Public Health said Monday the state's overall respiratory level rose from "mode...

As respiratory viruses spread across the nation, Illinois too has experienced an uptick in such illnesses, with the state's Department of Public Health reporting a "notable increase" in flu-related emergency department visits and hospital admissions.

The Illinois Department of Public Health said Monday the state's overall respiratory level rose from "moderate" to "high." IDPH reported 7.8% of emergency department visits attributed to the flu, while acute respiratory illnesses - which include the flu, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus and other conditions - are responsible for 20% of emergency room visits.

Data for ED visits and hospital admissions for the week ending Jan. 25 revealed the flu "is circulating more widely," state health officials said.

While metrics regarding the flu have increased, ED visits and hospital admissions for COVID-19 and RSV have declined. State data showed 1.6% of visits were attributed to COVID-19, while 0.7% were related to RSV.

According to IDPH, the state’s overall respiratory activity level climbed to "high" in late December but dipped to "moderate" in January, where it remained for one week. It then rose to "high" again, driven by increasing rates of the flu.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Friday said seasonal flu activity remains elevated and continues to increase across the country, saying the amount of respiratory illness "causing people to seek healthcare is at a 'high' level."

Dr. Sharon Welbel, chair of the Infectious Disease Division at Cook County Health, said doctors are seeing a lot of people who are particularly ill, especially young people.

Dolton 1 hour ago

Health 2 hours ago

"We do tend to see influenza at this time of year, sometimes it even peaks around this time of year," she stated. "This year, that’s not what happened. But we are seeing sustained, high levels of influenza."

Illinois officials have recorded five pediatric deaths from the flu this season, three from COVID-19 and one connected to both RSV and COVID-19. The deaths are a "stark reminder of the importance of vaccinations for children and of the risk of serious illness from these largely preventable seasonal illnesses," state officials said.

IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra, in a news release, recommended that anyone feeling symptoms of respiratory illness consider getting tested and treated early in the course of their illness -- especially if they are at risk for serious illness or spreading it to someone who is.

Here's what to know about the current illnesses circulating:

Virus symptoms

COVID

As of now, the symptoms for COVID remain the same as previously:

RSV

People infected with RSV usually exhibit symptoms within 4 to 6 days after getting infected, according to the CDC. The most common symptoms are:

Symptoms typically appear in stages and not all at once. The signs might be apparent in adults - but less noticeable in young infants.

While RSV typically causes a mild, cold-like illness, it can also lead to severe illness such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.

Other symptoms of severe cases include the following, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Flu

Flu can cause mild to severe illness, and could potentially lead to death, according to the CDC.

"Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly," the CDC notes.

Some of the most common symptoms include:

Giordano Dance Chicago: "Studio 62" Benefit

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Chicago|Local EventFeb1Sat, Feb 1, 2025 at 7:00 PMRavenswood Event Center, 4021 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL, 60613More info her...

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Chicago|Local Event

Feb1

Sat, Feb 1, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Ravenswood Event Center, 4021 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL, 60613
More info here

GDC presents "Studio 62," a benefit patterned after the incomparable NYC Studio 54 to support the Giordano Dance Chicago Dancer Fund. Guests will enjoy a lavish buffet, endless cheers at the 4-hour “top shelf” open bar, sponsored by Breakthru Beverage & Moët Hennessy and a lively paddle raise. Special highlights of the evening include a pop-up performance with the 2024 Dancing With The Giordano Stars winners, Megan Allen and Tom Ferguson Gomez and the chance to enjoy the magnificent Giordano dancers in a special performance during dinner. Tickets: $300-$500.

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It came from outer space: Crashing satellite lights up northern Illinois skies

Yorkville resident captured video of Starlink satellite breaking up in atmosphereThe night started normal for Nannette Englehardt and her family in Yorkville before a bright object streaked across the dark sky.“We were letting the dog out in the backyard, and all of a sudden my son started going berserk,” Englehardt said. “I’ve seen a meteorite before, but this was different. It wasn’t like a fireball – ...

Yorkville resident captured video of Starlink satellite breaking up in atmosphere

The night started normal for Nannette Englehardt and her family in Yorkville before a bright object streaked across the dark sky.

“We were letting the dog out in the backyard, and all of a sudden my son started going berserk,” Englehardt said. “I’ve seen a meteorite before, but this was different. It wasn’t like a fireball – the lights moved slower across the sky. It was a huge object. It was a totally surreal experience.”

Englehardt said that as she filmed the streaking objects about 9 p.m. Tuesday with her phone, her imagination began running wild. She said her family did not know exactly what to make of the sighting, they just knew it must be incredibly rare.

Her first thought was that it could be a government or military plane being escorted by fighter jets. However, she thought the flight pattern seemed a bit odd for that to be the case. Her son thought the object could have been a meteorite or a satellite breaking up while entering the Earth’s atmosphere.

Yorkville Satellite Video Yorkville resident Nannette Englehardt captured video from her backyard of a burning up object traveling across the night sky on Jan. 28, 2025. (Nannette Englehardt)

“Since posting a video, I know a lot of people have been thinking it could be space debris or one of the Starlink satellites being decommissioned,” Englehardt said. “I went down a rabbit hole researching how many satellites are being decommissioned, how they are built to burn up in the atmosphere and how big they are.”

Englehardt said all she could say for certain was that it was a tremendous experience to witness, and she was lucky to whip out her phone just in time.

Mark Frank, chair of the Department of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, said after having an initial hunch about the sighting, he checked the online resources at NASA and SpaceX.

Frank said the online tracking information showed that Starlink satellite 5693 entered over Wisconsin before traveling over northern Illinois on its descending path as it was breaking up in the atmosphere.

“Any of the low Earth-orbit satellites slowly get pulled back to Earth by the Earth’s gravitational pull before burning up in the upper atmosphere,” Frank said. “Most of the small satellites do not have a heat shield or anything protective like that, so when they degrade and get pulled into the atmosphere, they almost all break up and disintegrate.”

Frank said the average lifespan of a Starlink satellite is five years or fewer before burning up in the atmosphere. He said that with the large number of satellites launched by private companies, the U.S. and China, witnessing them disintegrate in a streaking flash of light could become a more common occurrence.

He said because most burn up and disintegrate in the upper atmosphere, the public has little to fear about their safety. However, Frank said sometimes larger space-traveling objects, such as a recent SpaceX rocket that had a separated part actually fall all the way to Earth, can be a little more unpredictable.

He said for the average stargazer, sometimes you can tell what the object is in the night sky with your naked eye.

“Meteorites can sometimes travel faster because of the velocities they have when they’re coming into the atmosphere,” Frank said. “There are different types of meteorites, and some can be the same size as the Starlink satellite. They generally break up, but ones that are iron meteorites are pretty hefty and don’t break up as often.”

The best thing someone can do if they are curious about witnessing something in the night sky is check the online resources at NASA and SpaceX. Frank said the satellite schedules are frequently posted, and you can check what their expected flight path is on their way to disintegration.

But a little star-crossed timing can’t hurt either.

“I’m still baffled,” Englehardt said. “I can’t believe we just happened to step outside at the right time.”

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