Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

Water Tips  |  Fire Tips   |  Biohazard Tips   |  Mold Tips

911 should always be your first call when experiencing a fire. But now what? Your home and belongings in ruins what do you do now?

The after-effects of any size fire require extensive repercussions addressed by SERVPRO professionals. Even when only a small portion of your home or commercial building, there may be soot and odor that traveled throughout the structure that will need to be addressed when restoring to original condition. If you have experienced a fire take these steps to ensure the restoration is properly taken care of.

  1. VERIFY THE STRUCTURE IS SAFE TO ENTER

Once there has been a fire, the fire department will check to see if your home is safe to enter and check the electrical system and the structure of your home to ensure it’s safety.

  1. CALL YOUR INSURANCE CARRIER

Contact your insurance carrier and file an insurance claim. With the issued claim number SERVPRO can work alongside your insurance company to make certain you have an efficient and speedy recovery.

  1. CALL SERVPRO of Central Honolulu

SERVPRO of Central Honolulu is IICRC certified and available 24/7 with flexible scheduling to ensure prompt restoration for all fire damage. 

  1. DETERMINE WHERE YOU WILL STAY THROUGHOUT THE REMEDIATION PROCESS

If your home has been affected by a fire and you will need somewhere to stay. Speak with your insurance company, they may have arrangements with local hotels in place for emergency fire restoration. 

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (808) 744-2730

What To Do After A Fire

  • 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.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

  • 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.

Visit our updated page