SMOKE/FIRE DAMAGE: ServiceMaster professionals will most likely be needed to complete your clean up and prevent further damage, but the following steps can be taken to help minimize further damage.

What to do:

  • If the temperature is above 60 degrees, air out the house to reduce smoke odor.
  • Clean Formica, chrome, porcelain and aluminum fixtures to prevent permanent tarnishing or etching.
  • Limit movement in the house to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
  • Place clean towels or old linens on the rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
  • Change the air filter on your furnace if it uses forced hot air.
  • Tape cheesecloth over returns and supply registers to capture loose soot in the air.
  • Record and then discard any open food packages.
  • If the electricity is off, clean out the refrigerator and leave doors propped open.
  • Clothing with heavy smoke damage should be cleaned by a qualified restoration dry cleaner.
  • Corrosive byproducts can cause irreversible etching in as few as 72 hours. Call ServiceMaster for professional help.

What not to do:

  • DO NOT touch anything with your bare hands. Oil from your hands can permeate upholstery, walls and woodwork, causing additional damage.
  • DO NOT wash walls. Because of the chemical make up of the soot, incorrect cleaning could compound the soot residue.
  • DO NOT attempt to clean carpets or upholstered furniture.
  • DO NOT use electrical appliances until having them checked by an authorized repair service.
  • DO NOT use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
  • DO NOT use ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet.