Fire Damage Checklist
- When fire and smoke disaster strikes in St. Louis, it’s too late to develop a plan. Preparation is the key to minimizing damage. Here are a few restoration tips that can help you before, during, and after a Fire related disaster strikes.
- Safely remove yourself, other people, and pets from the affected area especially if the fire is still burning or smoldering. If possible, shut off all electricity at the main breaker.
- Call 911.
- Call Pride Cleaning & Restoration to begin the restoration and cleaning process.
- Call your insurance company and/or agent to file a claim.
- Remain nearby until the property has been secured.
- Limit the movement in the property to prevent soot particles from being impregnated into upholstery and carpets.
- Keep hands clean; soot on hands can impregnate upholstery, walls and woodwork.
- Video record and photograph as much of the damage as possible.
- Facilitate cross-ventilation where possible by opening doors and windows.
- Place clean towels or old linens on rug and carpet traffic areas to prevent more soiling.
- Remove valuable items such as vital records, paintings, irreplaceable photos, family heirlooms and important documents to a dry, safe place.
- Place water-logged vital records and important documents in a freezer to retard mildew growth until professional drying is possible.
- If electricity is shut off, remove contents from refrigerators and freezers and prop open doors to allow circulation. For safety reasons, make sure the doors cannot close.
- If the heat is off during freezing season, turn off main water supply to avoid pipe breaks. Pour anti-freeze in sinks, toilet bowls and tubs. Make sure that children and pets do not have access to the anti-freeze.
- Change furnace filter and tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.
- Remove valuable items such as vital records, irreplaceable photos and important documents.
- Blow off or brush-vacuum loose soot particles from upholstery, drapes, and carpets.
- Wash both sides of plants leaves with a clean, damp washcloth.
- After cleaning chrome trim, appliances, and other metal/shiny surfaces with detergent, apply a protective coating of Vaseline or light oil.
- Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting a professional restoration service.
- Do not attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first contacting a professional restoration service.
- Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances, TV sets, radios, etc. that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first contacting a professional restoration service.
- Do not use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water; they may be contaminated.
- Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged.
- Do not send garments to ordinary dry cleaning. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.
Call 314.664.8844
