Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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Damage Repair and Restoration

Firstly you need to remove all soot from the premises. This is vital, if you miss any it is pointless continuing as you will simply have to repeat all the jobs if and when problems occur later on in the process. Remember that however you choose to do this, you cannot use water. This will make the problem a million times worse and will, in turn, make the process even longer. It not only makes the stain harder to remove, but also makes it look worse on your surfaces.

Once all the soot has been removed you must then look into thorough cleaning. The cleaning of the smoke must be done to such a standard as to ensure that when you get down to redecorating, the processes can be completed quickly and efficiently so as to ensure your bills are kept to a bare minimum. Cleaning away damage from smoke is far from easy as not all problems are obvious. It is easy to remove what you can see, what you can’t – not so easy. Special equipment is vital. Mold build up can, and will, happen if you do not ensure that the surfaces are completely clear of any remaining residue. Smoke and soot in themselves are dangerous. Add mold to the mix and you have one deadly cocktail. Getting rid of smoke odor is nearly impossible without the use of specialist equipment.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (650) 770-2992

What To Do After A Fire

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
  • Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
  • Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
  • If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
  • Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
  • Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
  • Change HVAC filter.
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

  • Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
  • Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
  • Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
  • Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

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