Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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We at SERVPRO of Emporia/South Boston, a leading provider of fire and water damage restoration services,
emphasizes that homeowners should prioritize safety immediately after a fire. After the fire department
has extinguished the blaze, homeowners should avoid entering the premises without permission from the 
fire department, as the structure may be unstable or harmful airborne substances may be present.
Homeowners should also turn off utilities at the main switch, avoid using electrical appliances or 
smoking, and notify their insurance company. SERVPRO of Emporia/South Boston highlights that a 
professional restoration service needs to be contacted quickly to minimize damages.





Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (434) 262-6792

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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