Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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Fire damage is a constant threat and local reality throughout the US. According to the National Fire Protection Agency there are about 500,000 structural fires reported across the country each year. That's a staggering number. And many of these fires recorded by the NFPA are occurring in residential neighborhoods. That means homes, just like your own, experiencing fire damage. 

Fire damage is doubly offensive because the damage is not just damage from the fire, there is also the damage from the fighting efforts. That means the restoration task is more greatly complicated. Not only the smoke damage, the burned material, the soot spread around the property, but also, wet material and water.   

It can all be very overwhelming. As property owners look to next steps see our tip section below.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (909) 860-1748

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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