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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Dealing with Fire Damage

2/26/2020 (Permalink)

Here are some tips from your friends at SERVPRO of Bowie on how to properly handle fire and smoke damage to your home or business

Do:

  • Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
  • Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
  • If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
  • Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant. 
  • If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
  • Wash both sides of leaves on house plants.
  • Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or of the HVAC system.

                          DON'T:

  • Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
  • Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
  • Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
  • Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
  • Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electric shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.

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