Fire Damage - The DO's and DON'T's

5/4/2016 (Permalink)

After a fire has occurred, it is not only important to know what to DO until help arrives, but may be even more important to know what you DON'T do. Here are a few tips from SERVPRO of NORTH Morris County:

DO

Ø  Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.

Ø  Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.

Ø  Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.

Ø  If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.

Ø  Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.

Ø  If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.

Ø  Wash both sides of leaves on house plants.

Ø  Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.

Ø  Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON’T

Ø  Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional.

Ø  Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional.

Ø  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.

Ø  Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)

Ø  Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.

Ø  Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.