Home Emergency Tips: Part 1

Helpful tips on what to do until help arrives

June is kicking off the SERVPRO West Columbia blog with Home Safety Month. According to the Citizen Corp website, "Some 20 million medical visits were required for treatment of home injuries last year." Simple steps can go a long way to minimize risk, so tune in for our 4-part Home Emergency Tips.

Fire and Smoke Damage

Do:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being imbedded into upholstery and carpets.


• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.


• Blow or brush vacuum loose soot particles from upholstery, drapes and carpets.


• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.


• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open.


• Clean and protect chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances with light coating of Vaseline or oil.


• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.


• Change HVAC filter.


• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

Don't:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Professional.


• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Professional.


• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances, TV sets, radios, etc. that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.


• Use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water (they may have been contaminated).


• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged.


• Send garments to ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.