Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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If your fire damage required the help of the Dallas Fire Department, you were most likely asked to step out of your home until firefighting efforts were finished. Some immediate concerns can be:

  • Can I go back to my house?
  • Do I file a home insurance claim? How do I do that?
  • What if a fire cleanup company approaches me?
  • What’s going to happen next?

Contact us for a Free Consultation

If you’ve experienced a fire damage in Dallas, we’re here to help. Contact Us for a free consultation. 

When to File a Fire Insurance Claim in Dallas

Many families people choose to call their insurance company immediately to receive a claim number. 

After the firefighters leave, you can determine if you feel safe going back into your home. Some families choose to stay in an unaffected portion of their Dallas home while others temporarily move in with a family, friends, or check into a hotel. In some situations, calling the Red Cross may be helpful.

  • If the structural integrity of your home has been affected, stay away.
  • Do not breathe in smoke fire or touch soot. It may be carcinogenic.
  • Do not wear clothing that smells like smoke or has soot.
  • Consider Fire Cleanup Emergency Services (roof tarp and board-up) to avoid secondary damage.

Full-Service SERVPRO in Dallas

1 Company, 100% Restoration

SERVPRO of Dallas offers full-service disaster restoration. Learn about our fire restoration steps here.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (972) 986-7677

What To Do After A Fire

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
  • Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
  • Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
  • If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
  • Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
  • Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
  • Change HVAC filter.
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

  • Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
  • Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
  • Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
  • Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

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