WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN IT COMES TO FIRE DAMAGE IN YOUR HOME

Dealing with a fire in your home is nothing anyone ever wants to deal with. The unfortunate thing is, is that it does happen, and as much as we do not want it to happen to you we want to prepare you for it just in case.

Here is what you should and should not do:

• Do change your HVAC filters – this will help improve air quality in the home and prevent soot or other debris from moving around the home and causing more damage.

• Do not turn on the ceiling fan if you find the ceiling is damp. The wiring could be compromised and this could cause more problems, including another fire.

• Do wash the houseplants on both sides of the leaves. This will help give your plants a better chance to survive. Plus, this removed debris that could later cause smudges on walls and carpets.

• Do not try to clean up any electrical appliances that were near the fire, heat or water. Since they could be damaged and faulty now, it is important to let a trained professional take care of this task.

• Do tape dual layers of cheesecloth over air registers. Like with changing the HVAC filters, this helps improve air quality and prevents flying debris.

• Do not do any of the cleaning yourself. Better to let someone with training and experience handle it. This includes wall surfaces, carpeting or upholstery.

• Do keep your hands clean at all times to prevent damaging surfaces with dirt and debris on your own hands.

• Do not send dry cleaning to anyone who does not have the ability to work with fire damage repairs items. Although the items may come back looking clean, they are likely to be left smelling like smoke forever.