Emergency Fire Damage Tips

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

Portable fire extinguishers can be life and property saving tools when used correctly.

There emergency tips will assist you in taking proper action until the SERVPRO professionals arrive. 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 your hands clean. Soot on your hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodworking.
• If electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot form metal kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances.
• If heat is off during winter months, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, and holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Remove soot particles from plants with a damp cloth.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave it 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 our our of the HVAC system.
  DON'T:

Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Southern Lancaster County.
Don't attempt to shampoo carpet, rugs, or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Southern Lancaster County.
Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been closet 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.