Fire and Smoke Damage DOs and DON'Ts

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Hayward, we understand how stressful and overwhelming a fire in your home can be. Our goal is to ease your mind and make it “Like it never even happened.” Our professionally trained crew will be there for you at every step and are always happy to answer any questions you may have!

Now, I know you won’t be on your phone looking up what to do or not to do if you have a fire, but hopefully, some of these tips will stick with you.

DO

• Limit the movement of people in the structure to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keeps hands clean. Soot of hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels on rugs, upholstery and carpeted traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezers and refrigerators completely and prop their doors open to prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from the chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances. Then protect them with a light coat of lubricant.
• Pour RV antifreeze into sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and bathtubs if the heat is off during freezing temperatures.
• Gently wash both sides of the leaves of indoor plants.
• Change HVAC filter but leave the system off until checked by a trained professional.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to prevent soot particles from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON’T

• Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Hayward.
• Don’t attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Hayward.
• Don’t attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to the fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service person.
• Don’t consume any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored close to the fire, heat or water. They could potentially be contaminated.
• Don’t turn on any ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be wet or damaged and could case electrical shock or another fire.
• Don’t send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may cause the smoke odor to set in.

Most importantly, DO call SERVPRO of Hayward at 715-3-634-0699 to make it “Like it never even happened.”