Emergency Fire Damage Do's & Don'ts

5/2/2017 (Permalink)

These tips will assist you in taking proper actions until we arrive to a scene of a fire.  Follow these DOs and DON'Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration:

DO:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into carpet and avoid tracking
• Keep hands clean.  Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor
• Wipe soot from metal kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances.
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system

DON'T:

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without contacting SERVPRO first
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service
• Don't 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