Basic Salvage After A Fire

1. Fast action is advised. a) Separate and remove undamaged items to prevent possible contamination;

b) Air the premises or use a smoke odor counteractant; c) Clean up; d) In cold weather, prevent further damage from freezing pipes by restoring heat or by draining boiler, pipes and toilet bowls;

e) Board broken windows or holes to protect the property against trespassers and the elements; and

f) Have an electrician check electric lines, motors, and other equipment.

2. Water must be removed. If there is a volume of water to be removed use a pump, broom or squeegee. Be careful not to cause added damage by splashing water. All moisture should be absorbed as rapidly as possible to prevent floors from warping. Sponge mops can be used to take up small amounts of water. Borrow or rent (from an equipment rental store) a wet-or-dry vacuum to extract excess water from carpets or other water-holding surfaces.

Use a dehumidifier to pull water out of carpets, furniture and other materials have absorbed water. A heavy duty suction machine maybe required to remove deposits of heavy bulk soil.

If the fire was caused by an oil burner explosion, everything is likely to be covered with oil-base soot which must be removed promptly. Moderately-strong solutions (washing soda, trisodium phosphate, ammonia in warm-to-hot water) dissolve grease and can be used to remove oil-base soot from surfaces. Wear rubber gloves on hands, and scrub with sponge or soft-bristle brush; rinse thoroughly with warm water and clean sponge or cloth, changing water frequently. Start with 2 tablespoonsful/gallon; add more alkali if needed to remove soot, but remember too strong a concentration can remove paint or other finishes. (However, walls, etc. will likely need to be repainted or refinished anyway.)

Smoke residue contains combustion products which vary according to what was burned. Foam rubber, petroleum, and synthetic products which contain petroleum produce toxic smoke and leave an oily residue that is difficult to clean.

Insurance companies usually assign adjusters to advise clients about property restoration. The homeowner may wish to engage a professional service organization that specializes in such cleaning to make the premises liveable again. Effective deodorization of smoke may require wide-area spray deodorization by a professional service firm that specializes in the treatment and repair of fire and smoke damage. However, many salvage operations can be performed by family members if they know the proper techniques. See also the entries under "FLOOD" for more information on drying out and cleaning up interiors. Remember though, cleaning after flooding includes disinfecting which may not be necessary after a fire. Quick drying is important to avoid mildew, rot, and stains.

This article was written by Anne Field, Extension Specialist, Emeritus, with references from Arkansas Extension bulletin How to Clean House After a Fire.

MSU 2003

Basic Salvage After A Fire

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