Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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At SERVPRO North Nashville, our experiences with fire damage have made us attune to some risks after a fire that you may not be aware of. Your safety is of utmost importance, so we recommend exiting the damaged space until it is established the house or building is safe.

In the stress of fire damage, you may not realize water used to stop the fire also presents danger. Electrical and “slip and fall” hazards are prevalent concerns, and wet materials can be VERY heavy! Take precautions to avoid injury in fire or the aftermath. If you have smoke or fire damage, call us and let our certified fire experts handle the rest! 

After safety is established and you have called SERVPRO, here are some steps you can take to prevent damage in your home: 

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (615) 876-9551

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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