Do's and Dont's after a fire

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

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/ refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor. 

• Wipe soot from chrome kitchen/ 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. 

• 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 first contacting your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional. 

• Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional.

• Do not 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. 

• Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water, as they may be contaminated. 

• If ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fans. 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.