Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

Water Tips  |  Fire Tips   |  Biohazard Tips   |  Mold Tips

What you can do until help arrives

Water Tips  |  Fire Tips   |  Biohazard Tips   |  Mold Tips

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be personal safety first. Remember that it is not only the fire damage you should be aware of but also the water damage, residue left from any extinguishers used, and electrical or slip and fall hazards, and always keep in mind the integrity of the building. Below are some of the things you can do to prevent any further damage until help arrives. After the fire is under control and the restoration professionals have been called, take these steps into consideration but be sure only to perform these steps once certain that it is safe to do so. 

  • Is it safe to stay in the house? Short Term? Long Term? 
  • Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
  • Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
  • Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!
  • Try to refrain from disposing of any materials until the professionals arrive. If you do begin removing things take lots of pictures documenting your process so as not to affect a potential insurance claim. 

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (215) 536-7989

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (215) 536-7989

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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