What to expect if you have a fire in your home

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Tips that can help you until the professionals arrive

 Fire damage can range from burning a pan of food on the range, to a furnace or stove puff back, to a major electrical fire. The experts at SERVPRO of Manistee, Ludington, and Cadillac will meet you or your representatives on site to determine the scope of work. Often we will also meet with your insurance adjuster (with your permission) to make sure everyone agrees what needs done, who is going to do it, and the approximate cost. In fires, as with most insurance claims, communication is the key to make everything go smoothly.

Issues you need to be aware of on a fire include:

• Is there also water damage that needs addressed?
• Does the home require board up or roof repairs?
• Do you have electricity?
• Can you stay in the home or do you need to move out?
• Will the contents need “packed out” and stored?
• Has the fire marshal or building inspector signed off?

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (231) 723-4872

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.