The Dos and Don'ts of Fire Damage Safety

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage safety is SERVPRO of Central Glendale's top priority. Follow these dos and don'ts to keep you and your family safe.

After any fire damage situation, the primary focus should be safety first. It is best to think of these important questions if there is ever a fire in or around the residence. 

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be heavier than usual. Be careful!

Smoke Damage Safety

With fires come smoke damage to cause more headaches. The questions above should always be applied if there are nearby fires. The smoke from neighboring fires can find its way inside the windows and under the doors. Smoke can leave a bad odor in curtains, upholstery, clothing, and even leave soot on the walls.     

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 a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of the 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 the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set the smoke odor. Inquire with us so we can get everything like it was. 

If you have experienced fire or smoke damage to your home or office, give us a call at 818-246-2200 today. We can give you even more advice on your unique fire damage situation.