After the Fire - Cleaning Versus Replacing, Niles, OH

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Our team is prepared with the necessary equipment and know-how in case of a fire emergency in the Niles, Cortland, Girard area.

Going through your personal memories and belongings after a fire is one of the hardest tragedies you can imagine. Deciding what to keep or throw away can literally be gut-wrenching. We, at SERVPRO of Southern Trumbull County, know and understand how difficult this time can be. And we are here to advise and help you throughout this difficult time.

Here are some things that must hit the throw-away list no matter what.

• Burned clothing, while some (smoke damaged clothing) can be cleaned by professionals, burned clothing is a different story. Smoke and soot can sit in the fibers of your clothing and can not only irritate your skin, but it can also carry harmful odors.
• Toiletries, Make-up, and other Cosmetics carry ingredients that can be affected by the high heat of the fire. These items must also be thrown away due to contaminants from the extinguisher and chemicals used by firefighters.
• Medicine can also be affected due to fire. The potency levels can decrease because of high heat, smoke, and soot.
• Canned food is something a lot of folks think they can salvage. But think again. The heightened heat can cause bacteria to activate inside of the jars or cans.

Rest assured. Not everything is damaged by fire. There are some things that can be cleaned and restored after a home fire.

• Smoke damaged clothing may be salvaged if there is no burn damage. Wash clothes in warm water as often as needed. Use bleach (if possible) and tri-sodium phosphate. It can be found at paint stores.
• Cooking utensils and pots and pans can be cleaned and restored after a fire. They should be washed with soapy water, rinsed, and then polished with a fine-powdered cleaner. You can polish copper and brass with special polish, salt sprinkled on a piece of lemon, or salt sprinkled on a cloth saturated with vinegar.
• Leather and Books - Wipe leather goods with a damp cloth, then with a dry cloth. When leather goods are dry, clean with saddle soap. You can use fine-grade steel wool or a suede brush on suede. Rinse leather and suede jackets in cold water and dry away from heat and sun.
• Photographs are the most treasured of home items. Try not to peel photos away from one another to prevent ripping and tearing. Soak photos in clear, clean water. Rinse thoroughly and allow photos to separate on their own. If they stay wet for long---they can accumulate mold damage. Dry them by wrapping them in plastic wrap and freeze them, then thaw and wash a few at a time. After washing the photos, dry them image side up on a smooth hard surface like a glass table.

SERVPRO of Southern Trumbull County is experienced and ready to respond to any home fire. A fast response and immediate action can limit damages and restoration costs. Our trained technicians have specialized equipment and resources for any size job, large or small. Our team is prepared with the necessary equipment and know-how in case of a fire emergency in the Niles, Cortland, Girard area. 

We understand you may be feeling confused, stressed, and more than a little vulnerable. Our technicians will treat your family with empathy and your home with great care. Until help arrives, please refer to our Fire Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (330) 392-6355