What To Do Until Help Arrives

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

It is important to take preventative safety measures to prevent fires.

A fire can leave behind soot, smoke damage and a host of other problems. Ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough professional cleaning. If your home or business suffers a fire, it is important to take the appropriate steps to prevent further damage until the professionals at SERVPRO of Southern Lancaster County arrive.

DO:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Keeps 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/refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome kitchen/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.
• Change HVAC filters; 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 out of the HVAC system.

DON'T:

• Don't attempt to wash the walls or painted surfaces without first contacting the professionals at SERVPRO of Southern Lancaster County arrive.
• Don't attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting the professionals SERVPRO of Southern Lancaster County arrive.
• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water, as they may be contaminated.
• If ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fans. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Don't send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.