The cleaning process on a fire loss

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

The cleaning process is never a “One Size Fits All” process. Every fire is different. Often a board up is required to make the home secure after the fire department leaves. There may be holes in the roof that need tarped, windows may be broken, or doors kicked in. Unfortunately, there are unethical people who prey on citizens who have had a loss. If they see a firetruck at a home, they will come back later to see if anything is left unsecured or unlocked. They may just be curious or “nosey” or they may be looking for something to vandalize or steal.

A large number of fires happen in cold weather when seasonal heat is being used.  Often the home will need winterized to prevent the pipes from freezing and causing further damage, especially if the power is off or the furnace damaged. Perishable food (canned goods and especially liquids) need to be protected and frozen food will soon spoil if not protected. Rotting food in a freezer or refrigerator will ruin the appliance if power is off in the summer. Plants and pets must also be taken care of quickly.

Although fire departments have refined the firefighting process, they still use water which requires drying. Drying a fire loss presents a unique set of challenges. Often there is a delay of several days or weeks before the scene is released from police or cause and origin investigators. Frequently there is no power or heat. It is not unusual for questions on restorability or total loss issues to become important. If the loss requires a pack out, the water damaged contents become important. Once these questions are answered, SERVPRO of Manistee, Ludington, and Cadillac can quickly and efficiently dry the structure and contents and start the cleaning process.