Out of the Frying Pan, Into the Fire…

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

DO NOT disturb contents in your home or business after a fire - improper methods may actually make things worse!

The First 48 Hours...

At SERVPRO of Columbia, Montour & Sullivan Counties, our skilled technicians know well that the first 48 hours after a fire can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings in your home or business.  Soot and smoke can permeate many surfaces and materials and can be very dangerous, even toxic. The longer they have to seep into your home or business and all of its contents, the harder it may be to salvage them - it may not even be possible!

What Can You Do?

The first, and most important thing you can do after experiencing a fire is to call us at SERVPRO of Columbia, Montour & Sullivan Counties. Our professional crews are on-call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays, to beat the clock in attempting to salvage your home and property.  But while you wait for us to arrive, you can take these precautions to help mitigate the damage:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery.
• Coat chrome faucets, trim, and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
• Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
• Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery.
• Do not clean any electrical equipment.
• Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor.