Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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A home or business fire is one of the most serious disasters that can happen to anyone. Aside from the obvious dangers posed by a rapidly-spreading fire, the damage done can be devastating, resulting in total destruction of the property in worst-case scenarios.

A fire can be a traumatic experience, but it's important to respond rationally and quickly. In order to prevent further damage, your home or business will need to be professionally cleaned and restored as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Aurora specializes in residential and commercial damage restoration and will know just what to do should you fall victim to a fire.

In many cases, re-entering a fire-damaged building is often highly discouraged. Aside from structural damage that could lead to further injury, there may be unsafe electrical wiring and gas line issues that could make damages even worse. Firefighters will tell you whether or not your home or business is safe for re-entry after a fire. They will also say if your utilities are safe to use, and will usually turn them off if they aren't. 

While SERVPRO of Aurora can assist with the restoration process, the road of recovery from a severe fire is long and difficult. Your family will need temporary housing, new credit cards, and a multitude of items replaced that nearly amounts to starting a new life. There are organizations, such as the Salvation Army, that can help you along the way.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (303) 576-6868

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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