Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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After any fire damage situation, our primary focus is safety for you & your family. Here are a few questions to ask yourself & tips on what to do, or not to do, after a fire.

  • Is it safe to stay in the house?
  • Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
  • Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
  • Smoke damaged items can be contaminated & dangerous
  • Do not enter the structure without the proper Personal Protective Equipment.
  • Do not enter the structure until you meet with the Fire Official in charge.
  • Do not wipe or attempt to wash fire residue from walls, ceilings, contents, or other absorbent surfaces without professional assistance.
  • Do not use food items or canned goods exposed to heat.
  • Do not turn on computers, televisions, stereos or electrical appliances until they have been cleaned and checked.
  • Do not use any electrical fixtures, switches, or outlets.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (770) 483-1212

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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