WARNING!
DO NOT OPERATE WET APPLIANCES.
After You Have A Fire
You might ask why we break windows and doors or put holes in your roof? Fire produces smoke, hot gases, as well as temperatures well over 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. At times, it is necessary to eliminate heat, smoke and hot gases before firefighters can enter to extinguish the fire. The ventilation must be done quickly to help reduce fire spread and smoke damage. Often, walls must be forcibly opened to check for "hidden" fire. After the fire is out, the damage may appear unnecessary; however, without the use of these fire fighting techniques, complete fire suppression would be extremely difficult.
WARNING!
DO NOT OPERATE WET APPLIANCES.
If insured, contact your insurance company. If not, here are some things you might want to consider.
Vacuum all surfaces. Change and clean air conditioner /heater filters. Seal off the room in which you are working in with plastic wrap to keep soot from moving from one location to another.
To remove soot and smoke, mix 4-6 tablespoons of tri-sodium phosphate (available in paint stores) and 1 gallon of water. We strongly suggest the use of rubber gloves and goggles when working with this solution. Wash a small area at a time. Rinse thoroughly. Do not repaint until completely dry. It is advisable to use a smoke sealer (also available in paint stores) before painting. Keep mixture away from children and pets. Wall papered walls usually cannot be restored and must be replaced.
Do not use chemicals on furniture. A very inexpensive product called FLAX SOAP (available in hardware and paint stores) is a safe product to use on wood, including kitchen cabinets. Do not dry furniture in the sun as the wood will warp and twist out of shape.
WARNING!
DO NOT MIX AMMONIA & BLEACH.
Floors/Carpets
Use FLAX SOAP on wood and linoleum floors. It will take 4-5 applications. Then strip and re-wax or treat as otherwise indicated by the manufacturer. Steam clean, shampoo, and repeat steam cleaning for carpets.
Mattresses/Pillows
If you must use your mattress temporarily, put it into the sun to dry - then cover it with plastic sheeting. It is almost impossible to get smoke odor out of pillows. Feather and foam retain odors.
Mildew
To remove mildew, wash with soap and water. Rinse well and dry. If mildew remains, use lemon juice and salt or a solution of household chlorine bleach and warm water.
Removing Odors
Sometimes there is residual smoke odor from small fires that is annoying and lingering. Short of a good cleaning of everything in the house, you can place small saucers of household vanilla, wine, vinegar, or activated charcoal around your home to help absorb odor. Remember that the smoke odor is also inside the heating and cooling duct work, therefore, a professional service may be required.
DO NOT USE GASOLINE TO CLEAN.
To remove smoke odor or soot from clothes that can be bleached, add ½ cup of ammonia to two gallons of water, then rinse in vinegar (use rubber gloves.) Should you have any questions about the cleaning or preparation of clothes, it is wise to contact a cleaning service. Take wool, silk, and rayon garments to the dry cleaners as soon as possible.
If you must leave your home, try to locate the following items to take with you: (1) Legal documents; (2) Identification; (3) Medicine; (4) Eye glasses or hearing aids; (5) Valuables; (6) Credit cards; (7) Checks & checkbooks; (8) Insurance policies; (9) Money, cash & other valuables; (10) Jewelry; (11) Photos & other family mementos; etc. (allow safes to cool down prior to opening.)
Smoke can damage the lungs of pets in minutes. Sparks will cause painful burns that may stay hidden under your pet's fur. As soon as possible, take your pet to a veterinarian. If your pet is lost in the confusion, call Animal Control (972) 875-4462.
Often, the fire department must disconnect your utilities as a safety precaution. The utility companies cannot always restore your utilities until repairs are approved and clearance issued by the Building Inspection Department.
If insured, consult your insurance company prior to beginning any cleanup. Insurance companies may hire a specialized cleaning and restoration company to help you restore some of your belongings.
All food and medications exposed to heat, smoke or fire should be thrown out.
After a fire, you may experience feelings of anxiousness, depression, difficulty concentrating, sadness, anger, fatigue, irrational fears and nightmares. These are common responses to a traumatic event and can be overcome with some life style changes and professional help.
It is important to get plenty of exercise during this stressful event in your life. Exercise will increase your stamina and help you reduce stress. It is also important to avoid excessive amounts of caffeine and chocolate. Caffeine and chocolate increase the effects of stress. If you or your family members need support, call the American Red Cross or check the Yellow Pages under counselors. Some employers and health insurance programs provide coverage of this service.
If you are in need of emergency assistance for food, clothing or lodging, contact the American Red Cross at (972) 875-6520.
If your home is unlivable, and if you cannot find a place to stay, consult with your insurance company to see if you are covered for additional living expenses. The Red Cross may be able to provide temporary shelter until you can arrange to rent a place to stay.
If you moved due to fire, notify the post office, bank, water department, credit card companies, magazines, newspaper, etc., of your new address. Also contact the Social Security Administration if you are receiving benefits.
After the Fire.............We continue to serve
Protecting the Past...Planning the Future