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SERVPROSERVPRO of Chatsworth/Stevenson Ranch
Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration™
(818) 709-6090

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Teams are Standing By to assist after The Sand Fire

7/29/2016 (Permalink)

A few simple steps could help minimize secondary soot and smoke damages

Los Angeles firefighters have nearly contained 85% the Sand Fire in the Santa Clarita Valley, but not before flames consumed over 38,000 acres, damaging dozens of homes, commercial buildings and natural landscape. SERVPRO of Chatsworth is connected to a network of SERVPRO professionals called the Disaster Recovery Team to aid victims of smoke and soot damage within the affected areas. Though personal safety is always the primary concern in these situations, the first several days after the fire is controlled are critical to preventing secondary damages from smoke and soot. Once the local authorities say it is safe to return to your home and/or business, SERVPRO of Chatsworth would like to offer the following steps to help minimize additional harmful effects.

DO:

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
  • Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
  • Brush vacuum loose soot particles from upholstery, drapes and carpet.
  • Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
  • If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open.
  • Clean and protect chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances with light coating of Vaseline or oil.
  • Wash house plants on both sides of leaves.
  • Change HVAC filter.
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.     

    • DON’T:

  • Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
  • Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances, TV sets, radios, etc. that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first 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. They may have been contaminated.
  • 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.

    • Even if your property didn’t suffer fire damage, there may be soot particles and residues left to clean up. If cleaned improperly, the odor and effects can linger long after the fire has been extinguished. From the structure itself to the contents inside, SERVPRO of Chatsworth uses the latest technology and training to leave your property smelling fresh and clean.

    To find more up-to-date notices of how the fire’s being handled, you can visit http://www.fire.lacounty.gov/home/home-alt/

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