5 Steps To Take Immediately After A Fire

Fires can ruin things very quickly. There’s nothing that destroys a property faster than a fire does – and no damage looks more permanent. Luckily, with good execution of the right plan and an experienced team on your side, you can overcome fire damage and restore your home or business in Fayette County to the way it was before. Here are five things to do after a fire to ensure the best outcome possible.

1. Remember; safety first! Get out quickly when you find yourself in a fire emergency. Make sure your people are all accounted for and out of the house. Call for help immediately; the faster you call, the faster help can arrive. Remember that damages related to or caused by the fire, like electrical or structural issues, can be more dangerous than the actual fire. Things can also be heavy or compromised. The whole scenario is unsafe until it has been restored – exercise caution not only in the face of a raging fire, but also in the weeks afterwards as you pick up the pieces and fix it. 
2. Wait until you are given the go-ahead to go back inside to assess damages. When you determine that it is safe to re-enter a building, wear protective gear. Don’t touch things unless you absolutely need to; toxins and chemicals can be dislodged, and soot can spread easily. Talk to emergency services about how to secure the property. Otherwise, your home may be looted and you could lose precious possessions or have your home further damaged. 
3. Get a copy of the fire report from the fire department. This can be valuable for your own records and for insurance claim purposes. 
4. Talk to whomever is helping you recover from the fire about also restoring from existing water damages as well. Water damage is almost inevitable with firefighting efforts. Because water is spread throughout the property, mold and mildew may be an issue. Mold can begin to grow on moist surfaces as soon as 48 hours.  
5. Be careful in the kitchen. If you are planning on salvaging dishes and some food after a fire, take precautions to ensure that it is safe before doing so. Dishes should always be washed before being used. Appliances should be inspected for electrical reliability and safety. Discard any food that has been exposed to the flames, soot, water that was used to restore, or chemicals. 

 Above all, act fast to minimize the damage, losses, and cost that you will inevitably face.  The damage from smoke, soot, and odors that come with fire damage won’t improve with time if left untreated. For emergencies in the Fayette County area, call Restoration 1 of McDonough today.  We’ll handle your situation as carefully as you would- but with more knowledge and experience. We offer emergency 24/7 contact, compliance with up-to-date code standards, and efficient, effective mitigation of losses. Our professionals are certified and a joy to work with. A quick call today s your first step in your restoration process. Give us a call now.