Steps To Take After A Fire

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

What do you want to count on after a fire?

Every year in the US there are as many as 400,000 house fires reported each year. Many of us will be lucky enough to never have to suffer a loss like this.That won’t be the case for everyone. For those not so lucky, SERVPRO of Jackson/Crockett County has a few tips to help get you out of disaster and back to normal, “Like it never even happened.”

After the fire trucks leave your home it is likely your home will suffer from fire and smoke damage along with excessive water damage. In attempt to help save your personal belongings and home from further damages, we have a few do’s and don’ts.

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 day, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop open doors to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances, then protect theses surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• If heat is turned off during the 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 and licensed 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.

DON’T

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Jackson/Crockett County.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstery with out consulting with SERVPRO of Jackson/Crockett County.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances(TV, Computer, etc.) First consult with an authorized repair service.
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water. (They may be contaminated)
• 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.
• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

Following these tips with help our crew be able to help get you back, “Like it never even happened.”