Navigating the Aftermath of a Glass Emergency: Steps to Take

A shattered window, door, or partition at your commercial property is more than an inconvenience—it’s a safety and security risk. At Christopher Glass Services, we understand that responding quickly and correctly is crucial to protect your employees, customers, and assets. Knowing the right steps to take can minimize downtime and prevent further issues.

Close-up of a glass door with a large, web-like shatter pattern emanating from the center, next to a blue door frame.

Prioritize Safety Above All Else

Immediately instruct everyone to move away from the damaged area. Cordon off the space with tape or cones to prevent accidental entry. If the break was caused by a crime, do not touch anything and wait for law enforcement to arrive before proceeding further.

The entrance of a commercial building temporarily secured with large grey boards after a glass emergency.

Secure the Premises

If the broken glass compromises your building's security (e.g., a storefront or ground-floor window), you must secure the opening. This often involves temporarily boarding up the area to prevent unauthorized access and protect the interior from the elements while you await repair.

A broken window pane with several large, sharp shards of glass remaining in the white frame.

Document the Damage Thoroughly

Before any cleanup begins, take clear photos and videos of the damage from multiple angles. Capture both close-up shots of the break and wider shots showing the affected area. This documentation is essential for your insurance claim and any necessary police reports.

A technician in a hard hat and blue overalls using a power drill to install or repair a commercial window frame.

Call for Professional Emergency Service

Do not attempt to remove or handle large shards of broken glass yourself. Contact a professional commercial glass company that offers 24/7 emergency service. The trained technicians at Christopher Glass Services can safely clean up the site, provide emergency board-up service, and take precise measurements for a swift replacement.

In a glass emergency, a calm and methodical response makes all the difference. Keep these steps in mind and save our number for fast, reliable emergency service. If you're facing a glass emergency in the Chicago area right now, call Christopher Glass Services immediately—we’re available 24/7 to secure your business.

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