Fire Damage DO'S and DON'TS

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Residential house in Croton-on-Hudson suffered fire damage

SERVPRO is a Franchise company with over 38 years of leadership. Our track record of results has earned us trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon. 

SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford technicians are a team of specialists, trained to professionally clean your home and personal Belongings. 

What can you do before there is any professionals around to help? SERVPRO has some tips for you. 

Fire damage & Smoke DO'S

• 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 HVAC filter, but leave 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 out of the HVAC system.

 Fire damage & Smoke DON'TS

• 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 ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage. 
• Send garments to the dry Cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor. 

These Emergency Tips will assist you in taking the proper action until your SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford arrives. 

Follow the DO's and DON'TS to reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration. Call SERVPRO of Tarrytown/Elmsford for any remediation help at (914)358-9000.