Emergency Fire Damage Tips

1/26/2017 (Permalink)

These emergency tips will assist you in taking proper action until SERVPRO of Quincy arrives. Follow these DOs and DON'Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of successful restoration. 

DO:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into carpet and avoid tracking. 
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork. 
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor. 
• Wipe soot from metal kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances. 
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures. 
• Remove soot particles from plants with a damp cloth. 
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained 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:

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Quincy. 
• Don't attempt to shampoo carpet, rugs, or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Quincy. 
• Don't 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. 
• Don't consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Don't 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. 
• Don't send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.