Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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When a fire has damaged your home or business, the priority is focusing on safety for yourself and those around you.  Depending on the extent of the damages, it may be unsafe to remain in or near the structure.  If the fire department, or other emergency response personnel, have been called to the scene, be sure to follow the directions they have given.

Once it has been deemed safe to occupy the structure, follow these guidelines to ensure your safety:

  • Watch for slip, trip, or fall hazards that may have been created because of the fire damage.
  • Do not stand underneath sagging or drooping ceilings, as they could fall at any time.
  • Do not attempt to lift waterlogged materials.  The absorption of water makes materials much heavier that they are dry.
  • Do not breathe in fumes from any smoldering materials.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (850) 466-3089

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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