Fire Damage Emergency Tips
What you can do until help arrives
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Dealing with fire damage in your home or business is a very traumatic experience, no matter how big or small the fire damage is. The first thing to think about is safety. Do not enter a fire damaged home unless it is safe to do so. If the fire department was called, check with them before going back into your home.
Also, consider the security of the home. Depending on the damage, call us if you need any kind of board up services. If you aren't sure what to do next, please give us a call. We are available 24/7 even if it is just to answer questions. We also have a homeowner care program where we can assist with getting you supplies (toiletries, etc.) to get you through the next couple of days. We can also assist with hotel arrangements if you are forced out of your home.
Above anything else, we want to be a resource especially in the day or two after the fire occurs. For more information, read our fire restoration brochure.
It is important to start fire damage restoration as soon as possible for many reasons. Weakened structures can cave in, damaged pipes can burst, and there is a risk of inhaling toxic chemicals from the smoke residue. As your local fire damage restoration company, we can provide an estimate on the cost of any fire damage restoration services.
Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (952) 426-4847
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.