What to do After a Fire

8/26/2022 (Permalink)

When fire damages your structure, there are many emotions running through your mind. As the owner of a business or home, fear, stress, and uncertainty can make you feel overwhelmed by the loss that has occurred. SERVPRO is here to help ease some of those uncertainties and work to make it look like “it never even happened.”

The first 48 hours after fire damage can make the difference in restoring versus replacing. After the rescue team has come in and extinguished the fire, there are some things you, as the owner, can do until help arrives to risk any further damage. These include:

• Limit movement in the structure to prevent soot particles from spreading.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.
• If the electricity is OFF, empty the freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open to prevent odor.

Some things you will want to avoid without contacting SERVPRO first include:

• Cleaning any walls or painted surfaces, electrical equipment, or shampoo carpet or upholstery.
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Send garments to a dry cleaner; improper cleaning may set in a smoke odor.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.

SERVPRO is always here to help. With high-quality products and a team of professionals, we strive to not only restore your structure, but also your peace of mind. In the event a fire occurs in your home or business, please give us a call!