Fire & Smoke Damage
After fire damage, it is natural to want to clean a building and its contents. Timely action can be a great help, but incorrect or delayed action can jeopardize or seriously impede satisfactory restoration.
Do This… |
Don’t Do This… |
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Clear and protect chrome trim on kitchen appliances with a light coating of Vaseline or other oil. |
Wipe or attempt to wash walls, ceilings or other absorbent surfaces. |
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Blow off or brush-vacuum loose smoke particles from upholstery, drapery and carpet; open windows for ventilation. |
Use upholstered furniture if it can be avoided. |
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Changes furnace filter if blower is operating. |
Use exposed food items, or canned goods which have been subjected to excessive heat. |
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Empty freezer and refrigerator completely if electricity is off, and prop doors open with a rolled towel or newspaper. |
Use TVs, stereos, or electrical appliances until cleaned and checked. |
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Clean and protect smoked bathroom faucets, tub fittings and towel bars with light coating of oil. |
Send smoked garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke and odor. |
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| Pour antifreeze in toilet bowls, sinks, and tubs to prevent freezing if heat is off in winter. | ||
| Call plumber to drain heating system if heat is off in winter. | ||
| Wash plants with water on both sides of leaves (water softener helps). | ||
| Remove pets (especially birds) to clean environments. |
