Fire Damage Tips

During a crisis such as a fire at your home or business, many people are unsure of what to do. It's uncharted territory. Here are some tips for property owners when they are facing the aftermath of a fire, large or small, at their property.

1. Safety First

   Your local fire marshal will let you know when it is safe to re-enter the property. Wait until they tell you the structure is safe.

2. Hands Off

   Do not handle fire-damaged or smoke-damaged materials with your bare hands. The residue may contain biohazardous contaminants, and the natural oils from your hands may actually worsen the damage caused by soot.

3. Secondary Expenses

   Your homeowner's insurance policy will cover secondary expenses like hotel rooms if you don't have a functioning kitchen or bathroom in your home due to a fire. Keep your receipts!

4. Important Items to Salvage if Possible

   Insurance/tax documents, jewelry, precious heirlooms, etc. Your restoration team can pack other items out for storage off-site during the cleaning and reconstruction process.

5. Be Prepared for Water Damage

   The water from fire hoses will have flooded certain areas of your home, leaving behind a soggy mess. That will need to be mitigated along with the fire damage itself.

6. Ask Before You Launder

   Standard laundry detergents will not remove the lingering odors caused by smoke or soot. Ask your restoration company about how your textiles can be laundered and restored.

For additional home fire safety resources, please visit the American Red Cross website's fire safety resources page.