Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

If you have experienced a fire in your home or business, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Contact Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and start the claims process.
Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of the damage before you start cleaning up. This will help with your insurance claim and can also help you remember what needs to be repaired or replaced.
Secure the Property: If the property is not safe to stay in, make sure it is secured to prevent theft or further damage. This may involve boarding up windows or doors, or installing a temporary fence around the property.
Clean Up: Hire a professional fire restoration company to help with the clean-up and restoration process. At SERVPRO of Sorrento Vallet we have the expertise and equipment to safely remove debris, clean surfaces, and deodorize the space.
Be Patient: The restoration process can take time, so be patient and work closely with your insurance company, SERVPRO of Sorrento Valley's trained professionals will work hard to ensure the best possible outcome.

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.

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.