Fire and Smoke Damage...What to do after

In the unfortunate event that you experience a fire and/or smoke damage to your home or business follow the tips below to ensure a safe and healthy recovery to your property.

Do:

• Clean and protect chrome trim on appliances with a light coating of vaseline or oil.
• Blow off or brush-vacuum loose smoke particles from upholstery, drapery and carpet
• Open windows for ventilation
• Change furnace filter if furnace is operating
• Empty freezer and refrigerator completely if electricity is turned off, and prop doors open with a rolled paper towel or newspaper
• Clean and protect smoked bathroom faucets, tub fittings and towe bars with a light coating of oil
• Pour antifreeze in toilet bowls, sinks and tubs to prevent freezing if heat is off in winter
• Wash plants with water on both sides of leaves (water softener helps)
• Call a plumber to drain heating system if heat is off in winter
• Remove pets (especially birds) to clean environments

Do Not:

• Wipe or attempt to wash walls, ceilings or other absorbent surfaces
• Use upholstered furniture if it can be avoided
• Use exposed food items, or canned goods which have been subjected to excessive heat
• Use TVs, stereos, or electrical appliances until they have been cleaned and checked
• Send smoked garments to an ordinary dry cleaner, improper cleaning may set in smoke and odor