Fire Damage Tips

6/19/2017 (Permalink)

"Soot Webs" may form from very hot fires

Have you ever experienced something like this? After a fire "soot webs" may form, this is a reaction of the heat and smoke, not the result of poor house keeping. Always call your SERVPRO of The Southowns professionals before attempting to clean fire damage yourself.

Fire and Smoke - Home Emergency Tips

DO:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further spoil upholstery, walls, and woodwork
• Blow or brush vacuum loose soot particles from upholstery, drapes, and carpets
• Place old towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and  refrigerator completely and prop doors open
• Clean and protect chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances with a light coating of Vaseline or oil.
• Wash house plants on both sides of leaves
• Change HVAC filter
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers

DON’T:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Professional
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Professional
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances, TV sets, radios, etc that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service
• Use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged.
• Send garments to ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.