What to Do Before Help Arrives

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Do you know what to do before help arrives?

A fire can leave behind soot, smoke damage, and a host of other problems.

Ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need a thorough

professional cleaning. If your home or business suffers a fire, it is essential to take the appropriate steps to prevent further damage until your local SERVPRO® of Oak Ridge arrives. The following tips may help reduce costs and increase the chances of a successful restoration.

DO:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Keep your hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer/refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome kitchen/bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• 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 your SERVPRO® of Cedar Bluff
• Don't try to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO® of Oak Ridge.
• Do not 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.
• Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water, as they may be contaminated.
• If the ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fans.
• The 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.