Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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The steps you take immediately after a fire, especially within the first 24 hours, can determine whether or not you successfully restore your property and belongings. Your actions also have an impact on your health and safety, as there are many hazards to be aware of during the cleanup and restoration.

The smoke and soot left behind after a fire can be extremely hazardous and even cost lives. In fact, smoke inhalation is the leading cause of death amongst fire victims. Soot inhalation can cause severe illness or death as well.

Your first priority is to have a qualified fire damage restoration specialist come right away to assess the damage and ensure that the proper steps are taken as quickly as possible.

The following guidelines should be followed in conjunction with the activities of the fire damage restoration company:

  1. Get clearance from the Fire Marshal before obtaining access into the building.

  2. When entering a building after a house fire, always wear a protective face mask to prevent inhaling any lingering residue from the smoke.

  3. Open windows for ventilation if weather permits.

  4. Stay away from any damaged areas that may be unsafe, including carpeting or furniture that has residue from the fire.

  5. Take videos or pictures of the damage sustained as soon as possible.

  6. Make a list of everything that has been damaged for your insurance carrier.

  7. Don’t attempt to clean off smoke and soot residues from surfaces on your own.

  8. Call SERVPRO to make an appointment  808-329-6560

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (808) 329-6560

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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