Fire Damage Tips

After fire damage, it is natural to want to jump right in and clean the building and contents. Timely action can be a great help, but incorrect action can jeopardize or impede satisfactory restoration.

DO…

• First, call 1-800 FAST HELP for quick professional service.
• Blow off or brush-vacuum loose smoke particles from upholstery, draperies and carpeting.
• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator and prop the doors open to allow for circulation.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of Vaseline or oil. Soot is caustic and can cause irreversible damage to brass and porcelain enameled surfaces. Do not touch porcelain or precious metals with your bare hands, as the oil on your hand may cause the soot to set in the item permanently.
• Open windows for ventilation if possible.

DO NOT…

• Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery.
• Don’t attempt to clean any electrical appliances, that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don’t use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet because the wiring may be damaged.
• Don’t send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.