After fire damage, it is natural to want to clean a building and its contents. Timely action can be a great help, but incorrect or delayed action can jeopardize or seriously impede satisfactory restoration.

Do:

• Clean and protect chrome trim on kitchen appliances with a light coating of Vaseline or other oil.
• Blow off or brush-vacuum loose smoke particles from upholstery, drapery and carpet.
• Open windows for ventilation.
• Change furnace filter if blower is operating.
• Empty freezer and refrigerator completely if electricity is off, and prop doors open with a rolled towel or newspaper.
• Clean and protect smoked bathroom faucets, tub fittings and towel bars with light coating of oil.
• Pour antifreeze in toilet bowls, sinks, and tubs to prevent freezing if heat is off in winter.
• Wash plants with water on both sides of leaves (water softener helps).
• Call plumber to drain heating system if heat is off in winter.
• Remove pets (especially birds) to clean environments.

Don't:

• Wipe or attempt to wash walls, ceilings or other absorbent surfaces.
• Use upholstered furniture if it can be avoided.
• Use exposed food items, or canned goods which have been subjected to excessive heat.
• Use TVs, stereos, or electrical appliances until cleaned and checked
• Send smoked garments to any ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke and odor.