After fire damage, it is natural to want to clean a building and its contents. Timely action can be a great help, but incorrect or delayed action can jeopardize or seriously impede satisfactory restoration.

The Do's...

• Clean and protect chrome trim on kitchen appliances with a light coating of Vaseline or other oil. (i.e. Pam cooking spray)
• Blow off or brush-vacuum loose smoke particles from upholstery, drapery and carpet.
• Open windows for ventilation.
• Change furnace filter 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 a 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 environments.

The Do Not's...

• 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 that have been subjected to excessive heat.
• Use TV's, steros, or electrical appliances until cleaned and checked.
• Send smoked garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke and odor.

Soot (Furnace) Damage

Although smoke and soot may seem to be identical, experienced professionals recognize the important differences and appropriate emergency actions can help in restoring walls and furnishings damaged by soot. Wrong action can make restoration more difficult and could greatly delay your "return to normal". These Emergency Tips can increase the chances for prompt and successful restoration.

The Do's...

• Change furnace filter.
• Cover upholstery with clean sheets before use.
• Tape double pieces of cheesecloth over air registers with masking tape.
• Blow off or brush-vacuum loose soot particles from upholstery, drapes and carpeting.

The Do Not's...

• Attempt to clean walls or ceilings.
• Use do-it-yourself, home carpet or upholstery cleaners.