Fire Damage Resources

Do:

Large Loss Fires 

• Let friends and family know you’re safe
• Call your insurance company—Familiarize yourself with your policy to know what to expect
• Call Jim Black Construction—To secure your property and prevent further damage
• Seek alternative living arrangements. In most cases, you will not be able to stay in your home after a serious fire
• Contact your local disaster relief agency, such as the American Red Cross or Salvation Army
• Turn off the electrical, gas, and water supplies if possible, but if not, alert the local fire department
• Ventilate smoke to reduce odor, providing the property is safe to enter.

Minimal Fire Damage

• Immediately empty the freezer and refrigerator if fire has disrupted the electricity
• Have smoke-damaged clothing and linens cleaned by a restoration cleaner
• Remove plants from smoke-damaged areas and wash leaves and branches
• Change furnace filter if the system was operational during the fire
• Protect decorative metals and water faucets with WD40 or petroleum jelly
• Clean sinks, showers, tubs, and countertops with a soft scrub
• Consult with a professional about deodorization and content restoration.

Do Not:

• Allow children or pets access to damaged areas
• Turn on electrical appliances or electronic equipment prior to professional inspection
• Perform demolition or remove any building materials without consulting a professional
• Consume any food items that were affected by the fire
• Clean smoke damage prior to getting professional advice
• Walk on heat- or smoke-damaged carpets or rugs.

Additional Resources:

• Home and Recreational Safety
• IICRC Resources
• Red Cross