Just Had a Fire? Here’s What to Do!

Posted on January 4, 2022.

In the aftermath of a fire, you may be unsure of what to do. Follow this:

Imporntant note:
Your local fire department will provide you with safety advice. You should not enter the property if they instruct you not to do so.

Taking pets and children to a smoke-free location is recommended. There are dangerous gasses contained in smoke that can be harmful to their health. For temporary housing, start with a neighbor you can trust, then transfer them to a friend or relative's house while the fire is being restored.

Open every window you can once you've gained access to the property. This will allow the air to move and force out the lingering smoke.

Get in touch with a fire remediation professional right away to get the process started. Professional assistance is needed, so don't wait until your schedule is backed up. Many homeowners insurance policies require policyholders to take "reasonable steps" in order to "mitigate damage". Windows can be boarded up, and smoldering can be put out, tarping the roof and/or boarding up the windows. Our company can take the lead to help you with this. Our company's fire damage restoration department offers free estimates and has decades of experience. The moment you read this, call (239) 788-1960.

Make sure you speak with your insurance provider about your home or business. Generally, policies require policyholders to report their losses as soon as possible.

Shut off the HVAC systems in your business.

Be prepared to empty your freezer and refrigerator in the event of a power outage. It is best to prop open the door when it is empty in order to prevent mold and odors from accumulating.

List all the items you own in your home. List all items that need to be replaced. Also, document the damage with photos. It is advisable to create a digital inventory that is accessible from anywhere because you will need copies for the insurance company, your records, and fire investigation authorities.

There are toxic gasses and dangers associated with smoldering ash, so you should avoid doing other tasks on your own. To minimize risk to personal safety, fire restoration companies use safety gear.

Until a fire restoration service determines that the premises are safe to enter. Make sure not to:

• Cleaning absorbent surfaces such as furniture, wood trim, and walls.
• Using upholstered furniture or moving it.
• Food products that have been exposed to the intense fire heat should not be eaten.
• Activating the heat and air conditioning in the property.
• Houseplant watering. It is necessary to first clean the leaves of any soot first.

Fire Prevention Methods

A fire may not be predictable, but you can minimize its likelihood by taking preventive measures.

• Keep your smoke detectors in good working order.
• Always keep a fire extinguisher on hand.
• Make sure to store lithium batteries and other specialized batteries per the manufacturer's instructions.
• Your HVAC system needs to be inspected annually.
• Outdoor grills should be separated from houses by a minimum of 12 feet.
• Making a fire safety plan for your home can keep your family informed in the event of a fire.
• Children and teenagers should be educated about fire safety, especially if you have young children. A great resource if you do not know much about fire safety yourself is YouTube.

The damage caused by fire can often be long-lasting, despite the fact that it happens suddenly. In the aftermath of a fire, the next few hours are crucial. Also, the first 24 to 48 hours after a fire are extremely important for regaining your home's original condition.

A fire damage restoration company with a good level of experience in Fort Myers should be contacted right away if there is lingering soot or water. If you have just had a fire start. Call us right away at (239) 788-1960 as soon as you and your family are safe and the fire department has put out the fire.