WHAT TO DO UNTIL HELP ARRIVES- Fire & Smoke Damage

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Westminster today!

Fire & Smoke Damage 

What to do until help arrives

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 can 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 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 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 the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage. 

• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning any set in smoke odor.