Important Warnings
- Do not attempt to wash any papered or flat painted walls. Incorrect cleaning procedures might compound soot residue problems.
- Do not attempt to clean carpets or upholstered furniture at the risk of increasing damage
- Do not use electrical appliances that have been close to fire or water before having them checked to prevent malfunctions
- Do not use ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet as a short circuit could result
- Do not touch anything – soot on your hands can permeate upholstery, walls, and woodwork resulting in further damage
- Do not eat food that has been exposed to fire or smoke
Fire Emergency Tips
- Report damage to your insurance company as soon as possible
- Blow off or brush away loose soot particles on carpet
- Cover carpeted traffic areas with towels or old liners to prevent additional soiling
- Discard open food packages as it may be contaminated. If electrical power is off, clean out refrigerators and freezers and leave doors propped open.
- Send clothing with heavy smoke damage to a qualified professional dry cleaner who specializes in smoke damage
- Clean Formica and chrome fixtures in kitchens and bathrooms to prevent permanent tarnishing
- Wipe residue from porcelain bath fixtures to prevent etching
- Wipe leaves of houseplants with mild soap and water to remove smoke residue
- Remove pets to clean environments
- Change air filters on your furnace if it uses forced hot air
- Tape a damp cheesecloth over air registers to capture any loose soot in the air
- Open windows for ventilation