Staying Safe After a Fire or Smoke Damage

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning up a fire loss

Taking the Right Precautions

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 temporary housing 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 of 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. Below is some times of what to do next:

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 and spread debris.
2. Wash your hands and keep them clean with a degreasing soap. Soot is easily transferable, so be sure to keep away so as to not spread the mess further.
3. 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.
4. Locate and change your HVAC filter as the soot will have gotten into it.
5. Air vents should be covered with a breathable cloth to catch debris (i.e. cheesecloth, large handkerchief)

What to Avoid

1. Don't attempt to clean the damaged areas yourself. Improper cleaning may create 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 ignition 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 as the heat and soot will have ruined them.
4. If the ceiling is wet from fire damage control, do not try 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 difficulty breathing.

SERVPRO of Freeport, Roosevelt is here to help you with any fire or smoke damage you might experience after any size disaster. We will be able to 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.

Experienced Fire or smoke damage? Call (516) 774-2200