Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

Water Tips  |  Fire Tips   |  Biohazard Tips   |  Mold Tips

If you have experience a fire damage loss at your home or business, your first focus should be on your personal safety, and the safety of those around you. Depending on the extent of the fire damages, it may be unsafe to remain inside the structure.  Keep the following tips in mind when initally dealing with a structure damaged by fire:

  • If the building is heavily damaged, or you are instructed by local fire authorities, exit the building, evacuating all other people and pets inside. 
  • Notify first responders of any hazardous or combustible materials that may be on scene.
  • Be mindful of any "slip, trip or fall" hazards that may be inside the building. 
  • Avoid sagging ceilings or crumbling walls, as materials could fall and cause injury.
  • Avoid breathing in smoke from the fire.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (850) 785-1077

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.

Visit our updated page