Any type of restoration or remediation related to damage caused by a fire should be done by a professional. For the health and safety of your family, you need to rely on experts who handle this type of service regularly. Service providers use their background and knowledge to clean and restore fire-damaged homes and buildings.
Fire Mitigation: Take a Proactive Stance
FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Association, defines fire mitigation as a method that is used to lower the loss of life and property. Mitigation involves taking the appropriate steps to understand fire risks, and maintain a proactive stance to handle these risks. One way this can be done is to buy insurance that covers fire damage restoration costs.
Taking Care of the Damage
Fire damage restoration itself is a process that begins as soon as a property is considered safe by authorities. Fire restoration specialists then begin restoring the property by focusing on smoke, heat, and water damage. Smoke, the acidic by-product of a fire, can stain and corrode counters and walls. Therefore, putting out a blaze often leads to more damage than what is produced by the fire alone.
What You Can Do Yourself after Scheduling Restoration
After you contact us for restoration of your fire-damaged home, you need to open all the windows in the house in order to clear the smoke from the rooms. Also, move your kids and/or pets to a smoke-free area. Smoke contains carcinogenic gases that can negatively impact one’s health.
Take Pictures of the Damage
Empty the refrigerator and freezer if you have no power. Once you empty the units, prop open their doors so odors do not build up inside them. In addition, inventory the contents and belongings in your house. List those items that need replacement. Take pictures of the fire damage too. You will need the images for your insurer, fire investigation personnel, or your personal records.
Stay Safe
After a fire, do not wipe down your furnishings or walls or sit on any upholstered furniture. Also, do not eat any food products that were in your house during the fire, including canned goods. Stay away from all electrical devices until the fire restoration service informs you that they are safe to use.