Fire and Smoke Damage Emergency Tips

1/19/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke damage after kitchen fire.

Do's & Don'ts 

Do: 

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas. 
• Empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odors if the electricity is off. 
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances; then, protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• Pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures if heat is off during winter.
• Wash off both sides of leaves on house plants.
• Change HVAC filters, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape a double layer of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the  HVAC system.

Don'ts:

• Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa Professionals. 
• Do not attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting with a SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa Professional.
• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances, TV sets, radios, etc., that have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service person.
• Do not consume canned or packaged food, beverages, or medications that may have been stored close to fire or heat. (They may be contaminated)
• Do not turn on any ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock.
• Do not send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.