Fire Damage? What Not to Do After a House Fire

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a ceiling. SERVPRO was able to cleanup, restore and rebuild this home in Canton, Ohio.

The one place you feel completely safe is your own home. This can change in a second when a fire starts, and smoke fills your home. After the fire has been put out here are a few suggestions of what not to do after a house fire.

What Not to Do After a House Fire

• Do not enter the building until the fire department says it is safe to go in.
• Do not turn on water, gas or electric. Utilities should not be used unless the fire department indicates it is safe for you to do so.
• Do not use electronics, computers, televisions, stereos, or appliances until they have been professionally cleaned and checked. A fire could damage electrical circuits and using them may be hazardous.
• Do not wipe or attempt to wash fire residue from walls, ceilings, or other absorbent surfaces. It is important not to tamper with any of the damage before it has been assessed by your insurance agent.
• Do not eat food items or canned goods that were exposed to the heat of the fire. Dispose of all food items immediately.
• Do not use carpeting or upholstered furniture impacted by heavy smoke residues or debris until they have been safely cleaned. They will need special treatment to remove harmful smoke toxins.

Each fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. At SERVPRO of Northwest Stark County our team has the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – SERVPRO of NW Stark County 330-497-4600