Steps to Follow After a House Fire

3/17/2022 (Permalink)

House burned

What to Do After a House Fire

There are so many emotions and questions following a house fire that it’s hard to know what to do next - who do you call, where do you begin, and when is it safe to reenter your home? There is hope for recovery, a new life, and a restored house, and SERVPRO of Grand Junction is here to help. We understand that lives, cherished belongings, and memories are beyond priceless. It is natural to want to clean your property and get life back to normal. Quick action can be great, but improper or delayed action can risk restoration and cause even more damage.

If you experience a fire or smoke damage in your home, here are some things that you can do until the SERVPRO team arrives.

• Stay out of fire-damaged homes until local fire authorities say it is safe to re-enter.
• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Remove pets to a clean environment.
• Wash houseplants thoroughly.
• Change the HVAC filter but leave the system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Let friends and family know you’re safe.

Remember, SERVPRO of Grand Junction is ready to assist you after a fire with fire damage restoration and help you get back to normal. Our number one priority is getting your home or business back to preloss condition as quickly as possible. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 970-241-8181.