Fire Damage: What You Need to Know!

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be stressful! Be sure to follow these tips to know how to react once a fire occurs.

Safety First

When fire damage occurs, it's important to make sure that you and your loved ones are safe. First, evaluate if it is safe to stay in the home. If there is too much smoke, you should evacuate immediately and find lodging elsewhere. 

If you can stay in your home, take some precautions. Be sure to avoid any electrical items that might be volatile after fire damage. In addition, be careful of any possible debris on the ground as a result from the damage.

SERVPRO of Freeport, Roosevelt is equipped to help remove fire damage, resulting water damage, moving debris, and cleaning your home. Our job is to remove all signs that a disaster occurred.

Experiencing Fire or Smoke Damage? Call (516) 774-2200

My Home Was On Fire: What Should I Do Now?

1. To prevent damage to your floors, avoid walking on any rugs or carpeting. Remember: more foot traffic = set in stains.
2. Wash your hands and keep them clean. Soot is easily transferable, so be sure to keep away as to not spread the mess further.
3. Place old sheets or towels on the walkthrough areas of the home.
4. If your power is turned off, check your kitchen! Make sure you take all food from the fridge and freezer out. Either put in a cooler or promptly discard what you cannot immediately eat.
5. Locate and change your HVAC filter.
6. Air registers should be covered with a breathable cloth (i.e. cheesecloth, large handkerchief)

What to Avoid

1. Don't attempt to clean the damaged areas yourself. Improper cleaning may set in damage if not done with the correct equipment.
2. If your electrical appliances are damaged or covered in soot, DO NOT attempt to clean. There is a risk of shock or burning upon touch.
3. Throw out any and all food that was located near the fire. This includes pantry-safe foods that are canned or packaged.
4. If the ceiling is wet from fire damage control, do not attempt to turn ceiling fans on. The electrical wiring needs to be checked by a professional.
5. Do not stay in the home if you have difficult with breathing.

SERVPRO of Freeport, Roosevelt is here to service you with any fire or smoke damage you might experience after a disaster. We will be able to help clear soot and ashes of all surfaces, check electrical units for repair, remediate water damage, and provide proper cleaning for carpets/upholstery. We will also be able to check HVAC and Air Ducts to make sure your home ventilation is working properly.

Fires, no matter how small, can be traumatizing and extremely stressful. Don't go it alone! Once you're safe, be sure to call SERVPRO of Freeport, Roosevelt for your fire restoration needs at (516) 774-2200