Fire and Soot Damage Services
Do’s and Don’ts

You Should Not:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces.
• Attempt to shampoocarpet or upholstered furniture.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water.
• Use any canned or packaged food and beverages that may have been stored close to the fire, heat, or water. They may have been contaminated and could pose a health risk.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged.
• Send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set the smoke odor in your clothing.

You Should:

• Limit the movement in the structure to prevent soot particles from being impregnated into the upholstery and carpets.
• Blow-off or brush-vacuum loose soot particles from upholstery, drape, and carpets.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rug and carpet traffic areas to prevent further soiling.
• If the electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator completely and prop open doors.
• Clean and protect the chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances with a light coating of Vaseline or oil.
• Pour anti-freeze into sinks, toilet bowls, and tubs if the heat is off during freezing season.
• Wash off both sides of your houseplant’s leaves. Water softener may help in this process.
• Change furnace filter.
• Cover upholstered furniture with sheets before use.
• Tape two layers of cheesecloth over air registers.