The following Emergency Tips were compiled by members of the National Institute of Disaster Restoration and are based on their wide experience in this field. It is not likely that you will require all procedures listed, so examine your situation and apply those steps which common sense dictates.

FIRE AND SMOKE DAMAGE

After fire damage, it is natural to want to clean a building and the contents. Timely action can be a great help, but incorrect or delayed action can jeopardize or impede satisfactory restoration.

DO:

• Clean and protect chrome trim on faucets and other brightwork with a light coating of vaseline or other oil.
• Blow off or brush-vacuum loose smoke particles form upholstery, draperies and carpeting.
• Open windows for ventilation.
• Change furnace filter.
• Empty freezer and refrigerator completely if electricity is off, and prop doors open with a rolled towel or newspaper for air circulation.
• Pour antifreeze in toilet bowls, sinks, and tubs to prevent freezing if heat is off in winter.
• Spray clean plants with water on both sides of leaves (water softener helps).
• Call plumber to drain heating system if heat is off in winter.
• Remove pets (especially birds) to clean environments.

DO NOT:

• Wipe or attempt to wash walls, ceilings or other absorbent surfaces.
• Use upholstered furniture if it can be avoided.
• Use exposed food items, or canned goods which have been subjected to heat exposure.
• Use TVs, stereos, or electrical appliances until cleaned and checked.
• Send smoked garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set stains and odor.