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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Fire Damage - What to do Until Help Arrives

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

When your home or business suffers a fire loss, here are some things to do and things to avoid

Things to 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.

Things Not to Do:

  • Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Allen.
  • Don't attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Allen.
  • Don't 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.
  • Don't consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water (they may be contaminated).
  • 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.
  • Don't send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

Call SERVPRO of Allen for all your fire and soot damage restoration needs! 469-247-4429

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