Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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In light of the recent, destructive Albuquerque fires, we thought we’d highlight some of the effects of fire and smoke damage within the home. There are a few things that need to be known before entering the home after you have had a fire. Fire damage restoration is almost always necessary.

First, consult a fire marshal and ensure that it is safe to re-enter the home after fire damage. Even though you may want to inspect and see what survived the fire, you need to be safe for obvious reasons. Fire can cause the home to be extremely unstable and dangerous.

Remember: DO NOT enter your home without approval from a fire marshal!

Fire Damage Restoration Clean Up Tips:

• Open all windows and doors to ventilate and help get the smoke out as much as possible.
• Cover any clean, unaffected pieces of furniture up with plastic to make sure they are not damaged in the clean up process.
• Do not try to clean anything yourself. The soot and smoke that has set into the furniture and carpet can be dangerous.
• Don’t plug in any electronics. Call an electrician to inspect for any electrical damage from the fire.
• Throw out any open of possibly exposed foods that make have been contaminated from the fire.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (505) 828-3567

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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