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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Fire & Smoke Damage: Do's And Don't

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Fire & Smoke Damage

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 and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
  • Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and 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.
  • Wash both sides of leaves on house plants.
  • Change the HVAC filter, but leave the 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 of the HVAC system

DON'T:

  • Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
  • Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
  • 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.
  • Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water. (They may be contaminated.)
  • Turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electric shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
  • Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

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