6 Tips for Cleaning Up after Fire Damage

The thought of fire damage invokes fear in every homeowner. A fire can cause devastating damage, some of which can be everlasting if you do not take prompt action to save yourself, your family and your belongings. The prospect of cleaning up after fire damage is quite daunting, but you can achieve satisfactory results in minimal time, if you follow the below tips.

1 - Ensure that it is Safe to Enter Your Home

In case of a large fire that requires professional help, you cannot simply enter your home after the fire has been brought under control. You must consult the concerned firefighters and ensure that there is no chance of another fire breaking out. Make sure your children and pets stay away from the scene of the fire, even during the cleaning process. The fumes and soot in the surroundings can be harmful to young children.

2 - Dress Appropriately

A fire can leave behind soot, ash, broken articles, chemicals and other residue. You must be very cautious to prevent injury, burns from embers and inhalation of toxic fumes. Cleaning up after a fire can take some time and effort. Wear a protective mask, a thick jacket, gloves and heavy shoes that are slip-resistant. Make sure you let in plenty of fresh air whenever possible. This will help in reducing the odor left behind by the burnt items, and also lower the risk to your health. Make sure the electricity has been turned off, until a qualified electrician checks your home. Turn off the gas as well. Never turn on any electrical appliances that look damaged in any way.

3 - Be Prepared

Keep handy items such as soap powder, brooms, mops, vacuum cleaners, garbage bags, water, bleach, tri-sodium phosphate and cloth pieces for cleaning. Before commencing on the cleaning, try to clear out the area as much as possible, by removing out large objects and items that are beyond repair. It helps to keep several garbage bags handy. Keep away items that can be salvaged. Damaged clothes must also be segregated. Clothes that can be used again must preferably be dry-cleaned. Carpets, drapes, upholstery and heavy rugs must also be preferably handed over to professional cleaners, if they are salvageable.

4 - Remove Soot

When the area is clear of clutter, remove the soot on the walls. Tri-sodium phosphate is useful in removing soot from the walls. Use it according to the cleaning instructions provided, and clean the soot-affected parts. Never leave any cleaned area wet, as it can contribute to the growth of mold and mildew. Dry all cleaned areas promptly.

5 - Vacuum the Area

With a dry vacuum, remove all the dust and dirt collected. Follow up with a wet vacuum for a thorough clean. Disinfect the entire floor and walls appropriately, and dry them off promptly.

6 – Assess and Fix the Water Damage

Sometimes, the water damage left behind after a fire can have more damaging consequences. You must consult a professional to assess the water damage in your home, and have it corrected as soon as possible.