Tag: Reliable Fire and Security Chicago
Protecting What Matters Most: A Visit to Cosley Zoo
At Reliable Fire & Security, we talk a lot about life safety. It’s at the heart of everything we do. But every so often, we’re reminded in the most unexpected, beautiful ways why our work truly matters.
Recently, our team had the opportunity to visit Cosley Zoo in Wheaton, Illinois—a five-acre, community-loved zoo that’s been inspiring conservation and connection for over 50 years. From the moment we walked through the gates, it was clear: this place is something special.
Children’s laughter echoed through the paths. Families gathered around the animal exhibits. Zookeepers were hard at work caring for everything from native Illinois turtles to farm animals and bobcats. It wasn’t just a zoo—it was a space filled with learning, wonder, and joy. You could feel the love and dedication in every corner.
Cosley Zoo’s mission is “to create connections between people and animals that will inspire lifelong conservation of the natural world.” And it shows. They don’t just display animals—they educate, protect, and invite the community to play a part in caring for the environment. It’s also a certified sensory-inclusive facility, making sure everyone feels welcome.
As we watched the staff in action and walked the same paths their visitors do each day, we felt proud—not just because they’re a Reliable partner, but because this is exactly what fuels our purpose. Protecting buildings and systems is one thing. But protecting places like this—places where memories are made, values are shaped, and futures are inspired—is everything.
It reminded us that our work isn’t about wires or alarms. It’s about people. It’s about animals. It’s about community. It’s about preserving something meaningful and magical for generations to come.
We’re honored to support Cosley Zoo and everything they stand for. And we hope, in our own way, we’re helping make sure that places like this continue to thrive safely—for the children who visit today, and the ones still to come.
If you haven’t been to Cosley Zoo, consider planning a visit. It just might remind you, too, of what’s really worth protecting.
To learn more, visit: cosleyzoo.org
At Reliable Fire & Security, we talk a lot about life safety. It’s at the heart of everything we do. But every so often, we’re reminded in the most unexpected, beautiful ways why our work truly matters.
Recently, our team had the opportunity to visit Cosley Zoo in Wheaton, Illinois—a five-acre, community-loved zoo that’s been inspiring conservation and connection for over 50 years. From the moment we walked through the gates, it was clear: this place is something special.
Children’s laughter echoed through the paths. Families gathered around the animal exhibits. Zookeepers were hard at work caring for everything from native Illinois turtles to farm animals and bobcats. It wasn’t just a zoo—it was a space filled with learning, wonder, and joy. You could feel the love and dedication in every corner.
Cosley Zoo’s mission is “to create connections between people and animals that will inspire lifelong conservation of the natural world.” And it shows. They don’t just display animals—they educate, protect, and invite the community to play a part in caring for the environment. It’s also a certified sensory-inclusive facility, making sure everyone feels welcome.
As we watched the staff in action and walked the same paths their visitors do each day, we felt proud—not just because they’re a Reliable partner, but because this is exactly what fuels our purpose. Protecting buildings and systems is one thing. But protecting places like this—places where memories are made, values are shaped, and futures are inspired—is everything.
It reminded us that our work isn’t about wires or alarms. It’s about people. It’s about animals. It’s about community. It’s about preserving something meaningful and magical for generations to come.
We’re honored to support Cosley Zoo and everything they stand for. And we hope, in our own way, we’re helping make sure that places like this continue to thrive safely—for the children who visit today, and the ones still to come.
If you haven’t been to Cosley Zoo, consider planning a visit. It just might remind you, too, of what’s really worth protecting.
To learn more, visit: cosleyzoo.org
Welcome Michelle Baio – Reliable Fire & Security’s Newest Accounting Manager!
We’re thrilled to welcome Michelle Baio to the Reliable Fire & Security family as our newest Accounting Manager. With 25 years of experience in accounting, Michelle brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for problem-solving to our team. Her background spans the restaurant and real estate industries, most recently serving as an accounting manager at a real estate investment company.
Michelle’s journey into accounting was inspired by her family, with a mother who was a bookkeeper and an aunt who was an accountant. This early exposure sparked a lifelong interest in numbers and financial management, leading her to a successful career in the field.
When it comes to her work, Michelle’s favorite part is research. She loves diving into problems, finding solutions, and supporting the growth of her team. Her commitment to mentorship and development aligns perfectly with our mission to foster a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration.
As a woman joining a woman-owned business, Michelle appreciates the unique connection this brings, noting the importance of accountability and a service-focused mindset – values that are central to Reliable’s mission in the fire and life safety industry. At Reliable, we pride ourselves on our tight-knit, family-oriented culture, where teamwork and respect for one another are at the core of everything we do. Michelle’s dedication to lifting others and helping them grow is a perfect match for our values, as we work together to deliver life safety solutions that protect what matters most.
A Few Fun Facts About Michelle:
• Hidden Talents: If she weren’t an accountant, Michelle would likely be a hairdresser or cosmetologist. She’s always had a love for hair and makeup – a passion that initially inspired her to consider opening her own salon.
• Collector at Heart: Michelle is an avid collector of memorabilia, especially Chicago Bears and Blackhawks items. One of her prized possessions is a 2013 Stanley Cup championship photo signed by all the players – a true testament to her dedication once she sets her mind to something.
• Productivity Pro: Michelle’s go-to productivity hack? Lists! Whether digital or handwritten, she relies on checklists to stay organized and on track, ensuring nothing slips through the cracks.
Please join us in giving Michelle a warm welcome to the Reliable team. We’re excited to see the positive impact she will bring as we continue to grow together!
Exciting Security news from Reliable Fire & Security!
At Reliable Fire & Security, protecting businesses like yours has been our mission since 1955. For nearly 70 years, we’ve built a reputation as a trusted leader in fire protection and security solutions, providing businesses with the expertise, service, and reliability they need to safeguard their people and property.
To further enhance our ability to serve you, we’re excited to introduce Andrew Koval, our newest sales representative specializing in building security systems, access control, burglar protection, and more. With a strong background in security solutions and a commitment to customer partnerships, Andrew is here to ensure your business stays protected with the latest in security technology.
Reliable Fire & Security has evolved from a small, family-owned fire protection company into a full-service provider of fire and security solutions, offering:
✅ Building Security & Burglar Protection – Advanced systems designed to deter and detect threats.
✅ Access Control Systems – Secure entry management to keep your facility protected.
✅ Fire Protection Systems & Services – From fire extinguishers to alarm systems, ensuring compliance and safety.
✅ Comprehensive Installation, Service & Support – A true partner, not just a vendor.
We understand that companies like yours need a partner they can count on—not just a provider. That’s why our “One Call Does It All” approach ensures that from consultation to installation and ongoing service, your business is protected by a team with decades of expertise in both fire safety and security.
Andrew would love the opportunity to connect with you and discuss how we can enhance your security strategy. If you’d like to schedule a consultation or learn more about our services, please email us at customercare@reliablefire.com or call us at 708.597.4600.
We’re proud to continue Reliable Fire & Security’s legacy of safety and security and look forward to partnering with you for years to come.
Safeguarding Success: The Key to Fire Extinguisher Inspections for Chicago Businesses
Ensuring the safety of your employees, customers, and property is always a top priority for local business owners and managers in Chicago. One way you can do this is by having annual fire extinguisher inspections. These inspections ensure that your portable fire extinguishers are functioning properly and are ready to use in case of an emergency. In fact, it is required by law in Chicago for businesses to have fire extinguishers on the premises and to have them inspected at least annually. Let’s discuss the importance of fire extinguisher inspections and how Reliable Fire & Security can help your business.

Maximizing Fire Safety with Reliable Fire Extinguisher Inspections
The main purpose of fire extinguishers is to save lives and property by suppressing fires. However, if your fire extinguishers are not functioning properly, they will be useless in an emergency situation. Annual inspections ensure that your fire extinguishers are charged, operable, and in good condition. Reliable Fire & Security has licensed technicians who can conduct these inspections for you and provide any necessary repairs or replacements. And all reports will be sent to you digitally. You will also have access through our client web portal.
As mentioned earlier, it is required by law in Chicago for businesses to have fire extinguishers on the premises and to have them inspected regularly. The Chicago Fire Inspectors conduct random inspections of businesses to ensure they are in compliance with these requirements. Fines can be issued for non-compliance, so it is important to schedule regular inspections with a professional fire extinguisher company: Reliable Fire & Security.
Life Safety Lessons That Will Save Lives and Property
In addition to ensuring that your fire extinguishers are being maintained properly, your employees need to be trained in the proper use of your fire extinguishers. When every second counts in an emergency, it is crucial that everyone on the premises knows what to do and can act quickly to minimize damage and save lives. Reliable Fire & Security can provide fire extinguisher safety training for your employees in addition to fire extinguisher inspections.
Fire Extinguisher Inspections Provide Peace of Mind For Chicago Businesses
As a business owner or manager, the well-being of your employees and the security of your property are undoubtedly great concerns. Ensuring that your fire extinguishers are in optimal working condition and that your employees are well-trained in fire safety will give you that peace of mind. Reliable Fire & Security is your local fire extinguisher inspection source that will keep your fire extinguishers code compliant and in excellent working condition. We have been providing expert fire extinguisher inspections and services for over 65 years. Contact the Reliable Fire Team today to schedule your inspection and ensure the safety of your business.

An Ounce of Prevention…
As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Is your family prepared to act in a fire emergency? Do your coworkers know how to use your safety equipment? Watch the video below from the Fire Equipment Manufacturer’s Association on how to use a fire extinguisher.
Fire Extinguishers Chicago Reliable Fire and Security
Complete Source for Fire Extinguishers in Chicagoland
Reliable Fire and Security is your Fire Extinguisher Solution. Fire Extinguishers Chicago. Best Fire Extinguishers Chicago (708) 597-4600. It’s easy to forget about getting your Annual Fire Extinguisher Inspection. With Reliable Fire you don’t have to worry about missing an inspection and getting a fine from local code enforcement. Before your service comes due, we’ll call you and schedule a time. It’s that easy.
We make sure you have the correct portable fire extinguishers throughout your facility. We make sure they are up to code, charged, and mounted at the correct height. And most importantly, before any maintenance and service is performed to your fire protection equipment, we get your approval. We believe in open and honest communication with all our clients.
Reliable Fire and Security is your complete fire protection source and we specialize in Fire Extinguisher Service and Inspections…
Fire Extinguishers Chicago One Call Does It All
Fire Extinguisher Inspections, Service, and Recharging for Local Chicago Businesses
New Fire Extinguishers (all sizes and types)
Employee Fire Extinguisher Training
Fire Extinguisher Signage for your facility
Mounting brackets for Fire Extinguishers
Vehicle mounts for Fire Extinguishers
Indoor and outdoor Fire Extinguisher Cabinets
If you have recently received a Fire Code Violation, we can get your business compliant we the local fire codes.
Your Complete Local Source for Fire Protection… That’s Reliable Fire and Security. One Call Does It All! We’ll make sure your business is protected and up to code. Need Service? Call us. Our techs and department managers are always happy to answer your fire protection questions.
Check out some recent google reviews from our clients…
“Awesome service, great management, and all around great business. Thanks for the help guys!!” – Raistlin
“Fantastic service and veteran friendly. A company that thrives off the American standards!” – Leah
“Got 3 Amerex 10 Ibs Fire Extinguishers and had the perfect service ! Thanks Guys!” – Jake
“Very great service! Needed some fire extinguishers checked, got a great price! Very reliable.” -Selena