Steps To Take Immediately After a Home Fire

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

Experiencing a house fire is a scary situation. After the feeling of unbelief, people are wondering what they can do to start the cleanup process from the damage. It’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure you and your family are safe.

Get Permission Before Entering Your Property

Depending on how extensive the fire damage is, make sure the Fire Marshall tells you that the structure is safe to enter. There are possible dangers in your home such as hot spots and unsupported beams that could cause harm.  You also want to be careful no one in the household uses the electricity without permission from the authorities. Although you are anxious to find out if your favorite things survived the fire, waiting until it is safe prevents you from dealing with an injury that could delay cleaning up the fire damage.

Document the Damage

It is also a good idea to take pictures that can be used for insurance purposes and to give potential companies an idea of the damage when you are seeking quotes. It’s important to note that some damage may not be visible, such as getting that smoke smell out of clothes and furniture. Remember, it’s important to keep in mind that fire creates two types of smoke damage; visible soot and an invisible odor.

Call A Professional Fire Damage Restoration Company

Although there are some things you can do on your own, such as removing items like clothing and linens that can be washed or taken to the dry cleaners. But, you should not attempt to handle items that have severe damage from the fire, smoke or water. Contacting a restoration company is the best way to handle fire damages. These companies specialize in restoring and repairing what has been damaged.

SERVPRO of Suffolk/Smithfield/Franklin is available 24/7 to help. 757-934-8404