Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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.

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.

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.