Smoke and Fire Remediation: Warnings

Fires are the second leading cause of accidental death around the home. Due to potentially toxic characteristics of building fires and the unique behavior of smoke, fire restoration may not be simple. Dangers may still exist even when the fire is extinguished. Do not endanger yourself or your family after a fire event. Keep children and pets away. Try to protect yourself and your family from stress, fatigue, and fire-related health hazards such as smoke and dust particles. It is important to have an experienced restoration team on your side. A fast treatment will help reduce smoke and soot health hazards.

If you’re in the midst of a water, fire or smoke disaster, here are some ways to mitigate the damage.

• Determine whether your property is structurally safe. Before entering your home or business, take a look and try to detect hot spots that can flare up without warning.
• If the building is determined safe, walk in carefully and inspect indoor stability. Use caution and exercise good judgment when re-entering a burned building.
• Check for smoke and sparks throughout the property several hours after a fire. Inspect every room including the attic and basement. Winds can blow burning embers anywhere. Keep checking the property for embers that could cause fires.
• Do not attempt to wash any papered or flat painted walls without consulting your 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. They could malfunction.
• Do not use ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. A short circuit could result.
• Do not touch anything. 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.