Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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Every fire damage event is different and the extent of damage varies. Knowing what steps to take after a fire loss can be difficult, especially if you have never experienced the aftermath of a fire before. We aim to take the worry and stress off of your shoulders while simultaneously restoring your home or business back to preloss conditions. 

Though safety is the primary concern, there are a few dos and don'ts after a fire loss that are important to know. Check out our Fire Damage Tips down below to be better prepared for a fire damage event!

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (408) 371-4001

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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