What To Do Until Help Arrives: Fire Damage

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

Fire & Smoke Damage: 

Do: 

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet. 
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork. 
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas. 
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor. 
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant. 
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures. 
• Wash both sides of leaves on house plants. 
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system. 
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system. 

Don't: 

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional. 
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional. 
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios,  etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service. 
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may created secondary damage. 
• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor. 

SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938….here to help! Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.