Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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When a home or business fire causes damages to your possessions, there are a few actions to consider before re entering or coming into contact with those items. Smoke resulting from an in home fire may have toxic properties and should be handled with caution. Wearing protective equipment such as a breathing mask and gloves can limit exposure. Try to disturb the ash and soot as little as possible. By using any kind of vacuum could result in spreading small particles in the air, risking breathing complications. Keep children and pets completely out of the damaged location. If you come into direct contact with soot or ash, wash exposed area immediately with soap and water. Putting you health and safety first will limit the possibilities of causing further harm. 

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (262) 248-7588

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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