Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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Steps to Overcome Fire Damage in Clearwater Properties

Fire damage incidents are the second most common call out for our restoration professionals, making it vital to keep a roster of qualified fire damage restoration techs available at all times. From electrical sparks to kitchen flare-ups and overturned candles, the causes of fires are plentiful. Because they are so destructive to the structure involved, getting experienced and knowledgeable restoration technicians on-site within hours is imperative to begin mitigation and recovery.

Is It Safe to Clean Before SERVPRO Arrives? 

There are certain situations where early actions can help to protect exposed content and structure, though multiple considerations should be made to ensure the safety of occupants until experienced professional help arrives with the SERVPRO Green Fleet. This includes:

  • The limits of traditional cleaning practices
  • Airborne contaminants that could pose health risks
  • Threats of cleaning soot improperly
  • The possibilities of structural collapse or failure

Are There Steps That Homeowners Can Take to Help?

It is not always feasible to make significant strides in managing the immediate fire effects of a loss incident. It is often too dangerous to continue staying in the house with potentially hazardous byproducts circulating in the environment without the appropriate personal protective equipment and safe practice experience. Our centrally located warehouse allows our SERVPRO team to quickly reach homes throughout Clearwater and Clearwater Beach so that homeowners are less inclined to put their well-being at risk for the property.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (727) 614-0099

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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