Do's and Don'ts When Disaster Strikes

For Fire and Smoke Damage - This list of Emergency Tips has been compiled from many years of experience in fire and smoke damage repair and cleaning.

DO:

• Clean and protect chrome trim on kitchen appliances with a light coating of Vaseline or other oil.
• Blow off or brush-vacuum loose smoke particles from upholstery, draperies and carpets.
• Open windows for ventilation.
• Change furnace filters if blower is operating.
• Empty freezer and refrigerator completely if electricity is off and prop doors open with a rolled towel or newspaper.
• Clean and protect smoked bathroom faucets, tub fittings and towel bars with light coating of oil.
• Pour antifreeze in toilet bowls, sinks and tubs to prevent freezing if heat is off in winter.
• Wash plants with water on both sides of leaves (water softener helps).
• Call plumber to drain heating system if heat is off in winter.
• Remove pets (especially birds) to clean environment.

DO NOT:

• Wipe or attempt to wash walls, ceilings or other absorbent surfaces.
• Use upholstered furniture if it can be avoided.
• Use exposed food items or canned goods which have been subjected to excessive heat.
• Use TVs, stereos or electrical appliances until they are cleaned and checked.
• Send smoked garments to an ordinary dry cleaner (improper cleaning may set smoke and odor).