Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

Water Tips  |  Fire Tips   |  Biohazard Tips   |  Mold Tips

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first.

  • Is it safe to stay in the house?
  • Be aware of electrical and "slip and fall" hazards.
  • Only perform activities that are safe for you.
  • Stay away from electrical sources such as outlets and electronics.
  • If you have pets, find comfortable accommodations for them.
  • If you are lifting wet materials, be careful, they can be heavy.

SERVPRO of Southeast Memphis works around the clock to undo flood water, vandalism, and natural disasters. No matter the time or season, give us a call for all your building services needs. 

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (901) 334-9327

What To Do After A Fire

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
  • Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
  • Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
  • If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
  • Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
  • Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
  • Change HVAC filter.
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

  • Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
  • Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
  • Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
  • Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Visit our updated page