Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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What You Can Do Until Help Arrives

Should a fire occur in your home or business, here are some helpful tips you can use to help limit the damage until SERVPRO of Joliet arrives:

Do's

  • Limit movement of people in the structure to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
  • Place dry, colorfast towels on carpeted traffic areas to prevent more soiling.
  • Wipe soot from chrome trim, then protect with a light coating of lubricant.



Don'ts

  • Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Joliet
  • Do not attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting with a SERVPRO of Joliet professional.
  • Do not attempt to clean any electrical equipment or appliances that may have been close to fire or water without consulting a repair service.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (815) 436-5735

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.