Adding stress to an already stressful situation is not what your family needs after a fire. During those first few moments after a fire does start, in your home, you are confused and shaken. Your immediate response is to think everything is destroyed. All you want, once the fire is out, is to return to your house and figure out what is salvageable or not. When your home does catch fire the last thing going through your mind is how to find a reputable fire restoration company but trust me this is the first step you should take.
This article will break down the steps you should take, with the help of a reliable, highly regarded fire restoration company, to restore your home to as good as new.
BE SAFE AND SMART:
Never enter a building that has any fire or water damage. If you would not enter the area don't let your kids or pets. Have a trained professional inspect the property to see if it is safe for you to go into. Checking out the damage is not worth your life.
Make sure the electricity, gas, and water sources have all been shut off. If possible call DTE or Consumer Energy to immediately access your situation and cut off services to the area.
Protect yourself and your family. When you are cleared to go into the home, wear protective gloves, masks, boots, and goggles. The last things you need is to breathe in or injure yourself on debris.
Don't use appliances. Smoke, water, and soot can all cause appliances to malfunction. If possible replace all appliances. If this is not possible have a licensed repair man out to inspect them.
Ventilate as much as possible. Open windows and doors. Use fans to blow the stale air out of the house. Continue to do this as the process of fire restoration takes place.
CONTROL DEBRIS:
Remove all living things. I know this sounds logical - right? Many people forget about plants and contained pets. Get pets such as goldfish into fresh water and move them to a safe location while fire restoration is taking place. Rinse and wipe down birds. Soot can be harmful if it stays lodged in their feathers. Wipe down and sterilize all pet toys.Plants are often forgotten about also. Make sure you rinse and wipe the leaves of your plants. This will prevent the soot from settling.
Make sure that floating debris gets wet down. It is easier to remove soiled soot and debris when wet because you can contain the debris. Dry debris tends to cause a dust which can be hazardous to your health.
Remove the debris and clean up. Start from the bottom and work up. Clean the debris off the floor and off your belongings. If you clean the walls first you will end up redoing them. Trust me the ash will be stirred up removing debris - leave the walls for last.
CLEAN AND PURGE:
Remove and throw out all food. Get rid of all of the food that is left after a fire is the only smart thing to do. Canned, boxes, frozen, and refrigerated food should all be thrown out. It is not worth the potential risks to keep these items around.
Dry clean all cloth material. Washing machines will not cut getting rid of the odor that is left behind on clothing, curtains, and bedding. Have everything professionally dry cleaned.
Whether you are in Livingston County, Brighton, Howell, or Oakland County, Wixom, South Lyon fire restoration companies are available to you. You can start by asking for recommendations from the local fire department or your insurance company. Follow your instincts and find a fire restoration company you feel good about working with.
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