Fire Damage Emergency Tips
What you can do until help arrives
Water Tips | Fire Tips | Biohazard Tips | Mold Tips
We understand that most families are in a state of shock after a traumatic event such as a house fire. At SERVPRO of Stone Mountain/Clarkston we have seen first hand how traumatic this can be. Your priority should be to ensure that you and your family are safe and unharmed. After that you need to know if it is safe to enter your house. Besides structural issues you should be aware that electrical hazards are also common. Due to the water used to extinguish the fire, there are “slip and fall” accidents as well. Lastly be careful lifting wet items as they can be very heavy due to the water that has seeped into the items.
Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (770) 496-1976
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.