Fire & Smoke Damage

Do’s

• Limit physical movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being imbedded in upholstery and carpets.
• Blow off or brush-vacuum loose soot particles from upholstery, drapes and carpets.
• Cover carpeted traffic areas with towels or old linens to prevent additional soiling.
• Discard open food packages (document what is thrown away). The food could be contaminated.
• If electrical service is off, clean out your fridge and freezer. Leave the doors propped open or place charcoal in the unit.
• Send clothing with heavy smoke damage to a qualified professional dry cleaner.
• Clean Formica and chrome fixtures in the kitchen and bathroom to prevent permanent tarnishing.
• Wipe residue from porcelain bath fixtures to prevent permanent etching.
• Wipe the leaves of houseplants to remove smoke residue.
• Change the air filter on your furnace if it uses forced air.
• Tape cheesecloth over the intake and outlet air registers to capture any loose soot in the air. This is even more effective if the cheesecloth is damp.
• If possible air out the house to reduce smoke odor.

Don’ts

• Do not attempt to wash any papered or flat painted walls without consulting a professional cleaner. Incorrect cleaning procedures could compound the soot residue problem.
• Do not attempt to clean carpets or upholstered furniture. Again, incorrect procedures could increase damage.
• Do not use electrical appliances that have been close to fire or water before having them checked.
• Do not use ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet.
• Do not touch anything. The soot on your hands can permeate upholstery, walls and woodwork, causing further damage.
• Do not eat food that has been exposed to fire or smoke.
• Do not wait to call for professional help.