Fire Damage and Water Damage Go Hand in Hand

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

Fire and water damage in Glendale, AZ

The first 24 to 48 hours after a fire are the most important. Firefighters use high-powered water hoses to contain the fire. So you end up dealing with fire, smoke, and water damage. Before re-entering your commercial building check to make sure it is safe. Sometimes fires can actually flare up from embers days after a fire seems dormant.

The aftermath of a Fire

There are a few things you need to do immediately after a fire.

• Call your insurance
• Assess the damages
• Use boards and tarps to secure the premises
• Start the water cleanup
• Start the smoke cleanup and fire cleanup
• Start repair damages
  
  

Cleanup

After gaining entrance and calling the insurance company, you need to start drying your building out. If you don’t deal with water damage immediately, it can lead to mold and other problems.

Start by removing all of the debris and items you can’t salvage. Move salvageable items to a storage unit, so they don’t become more damaged. If furniture and other items are wet, move them outside so they can dry out.

You may need to bring in industrial-size fans. Circulation not only helps with the water cleanup but it helps push stagnant and possibly hazardous air outside. Remove and wash all draperies. Most fabrics will need dry-cleaning due to smoke and soot damage.

Remove all the water from floors and carpets with a water-extracting machine. Fire restoration companies in Glendale, Arizona, should have all this equipment available with their services. It might be necessary to remove the carpet if it has been more than 48 hours. Mold might already be setting in.

Everything in the building that can be washed needs to be washed. This includes dishes, appliances, and any inventory. A mixture of vinegar and water makes a great cleaning solution.

Fire, smoke, and water cleanup are daunting tasks, but Fire restoration specialists can help you determine what is salvageable and what is not. They can help you get your business back up and running in the shortest time possible.