Fire and Smoke Damage Emergency Tips
1/19/2016 (Permalink)
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.