What To Do After the Fire
Once the blaze is out and the firefighters have left, you will have to decide quickly whether or not you can do the clean-up work yourself. If the damage appears extensive, leave everything as is. But if the fire was limited to one room and damage is minimal, you can probably proceed on your own. Call your insurance agent immediately so the damage can be documented and professionally repaired.
Cleaning Up:
Use a shop vacuum to remove the dry soot and any chemical residue left from fire extinguishers. Do not use the vacuum for hot coals, ashes, etc.
Open windows and doors to circulate fresh air to dissipate the smell of smoke. Use a room deodorizer to mask the smell until it's gone.
Clothing, carpets, and other furnishing might require professional cleaning to eliminate the smoke odor.
Dry-cleaning sponges are ideal for removing loose soot particles from latex paint, blown ceilings, and acoustic tiles. Do not use household cleaners on these surfaces. The sponge should be used dry.
Wipe the ceiling first. Then work on the walls, moving from top to bottom in straight, parallel strokes that overlap. When the surface of the sponge becomes sooty, skim it off with a knife to give a new cleaning surface.
Even if the damage is heavy and you have filed a claim with your insurance company, you'll still have a mess on your hands. Fortunately, there are services that specialize in post-fire cleanup work. Check the yellow pages, under "Fire & Water Damage Restoration." You can also contact several organizations that provide reference.
Professionals may be hired to eliminate the smoky odor that lingers after a fire. Their cleanup arsenal includes ozone generators and special deodorizing chemicals unavailable to consumers.
After a serious fire, you might have to move out of the house during cleanup and repairs. If so, be sure to board up broken windows and other holes. Remove any valuables you can. Consider hiring a security service to keep an eye on your home.
