What To Do With Contents After a Fire

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

Damaged Stove from House Fire in Windcrest, Texas

Fires are devastating. If contents aren't destroyed by flames, they can be rendered useless by smoke and soot.

Four items you should definitely throw away:

• Food Exposed to Fire and Heat - any foods that come contact with the flames, smoke, high heat, including foods stored in the refrigerator or freezer. 
• Fabrics 
• Mattresses
• Medicine and Cosmetics
• Electric Appliances

Three examples of items that can often be salvaged after a fire.  

Hardwood - unless there is extreme burning or charring, use an oil soap made especially for wood to clean off stains. 

Glass - if it doesn’t melt, try cleaning it with white vinegar or dish soap. You can also try to soak it in vinegar and baking soda.

Metal - use vinegar or dish soap and then try to gently sand and paint the metal.

Note: never try to keep items that may be melted, charred, or rendered structurally unsafe. 

If you need help trying to salvage and/or restore your property and belongings after a fire, our team of experts here at SERVPRO  of North Central San Antonio is close by and ready to help!  Whatever the size of your fire damage, we have the know-how, training, and tools to help you deal with it and move forward.