Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

Water Tips  |  Fire Tips   |  Biohazard Tips   |  Mold Tips

The mere thought of a house fire happening to your home is frightening enough – but knowing what to do in the event of a house fire can help reduce the stress and confusion of what has happened and where start – having a plan in place can help relieve the overwhelming feelings of stress and uncertainty.

• Call for help and make sure your family knows the meeting place outside your home
• Contact your insurance company immediately – they will instruct you on the next steps
• Do not enter your home until permission that it’s safe
• Contact family and friend and let them know you and your family are safe
• Find a safe place to stay and don’t forget your pets

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (803) 276-0290

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.