Protecting Your Home After a Fire

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

If you have fire damage, or questions about restoration, call us, SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, and Madison Counties (540) 513-3111.

After a house fire has been extinguished, it may seem like no more damage can be done, this isn't always the case. It is important to board up your home and take other precautions to prevent further problems. The following are three things you can do after a house fire to protect your home.

Secure the Property

Your home is vulnerable to a variety of threats after a fire has occurred, including:

Wildlife

Trespassers

Inclement weather

After the fire department has told you it is safe to do so, you can begin making temporary repairs to your home. There will likely be broken windows, holes, and other openings resulting from the fire damage and extinguishing efforts. Board up or tarp over these openings to protect the inside of the home. Installing a temporary security fence can add an extra layer of protection. Remember to keep receipts for emergency board up materials and other security expenses, because your homeowner's insurance may reimburse you.

Begin Cleanup

In addition to the fire itself, residual smoke and soot from the fire and standing water from the extinguishing efforts can cause further damage. Soot is often corrosive and standing water fosters mold growth, so acting quickly is key. Make sure to use the appropriate cleaning product and technique for the type of soot with which you are dealing. Otherwise, you may end up doing more harm than good. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need professional restoration assistance.

Prevent Future Damage

During the restoration process, you may consider taking measures to prevent future fires. Possible steps include investing in flame-resistant paint and installing a sprinkler system. Test your smoke detectors regularly and make sure you have enough fire extinguishers.

Whether you are dealing with major or minor fire damage, it is important to take steps to prevent further damage from occurring. From board up to cleanup, acting quickly but cautiously is the best way to protect your property.

Your Local Restoration Team is Ready to Help

SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, and Madison Counties specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

We are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. If you have fire damage, or questions about restoration, call us, SERVPRO of Louisa, Orange, and Madison Counties (540) 513-3111.