Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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After an unfortunate event such as a fire, safety should be your most important priority. Here at SERVPRO of East York PA safety is our number one priority, immediately followed by satisfying our customers' needs. 

The staff at SERVPRO of East York PA understand that other than the scary event of the fire, the most devastating factor for the home or business owner is the fire and smoke damages. These are some tips to limit the amount of damage from smoke and soot.

Fire Damage Safety Tips:

  • Get an inspection of the structure to ensure maximum safety.
  • Only perform activities that are safe to do under the current circumstances.
  • Limit movement in the home to avoid embedding soot particles and smoke smell further in the upholstery, carpets, walls and woodwork.
  • Keep electrical appliances off until you are sure there is no wiring damages.
  • Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil. 
  • Change HVAC filters.
  • Do not send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner or laundromat. Improper cleaning of fabric can set smoke odor in deeper. 

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (717) 846-6100

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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