Do's
-Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being impregnated into upholstery and carpets.-Blow off or brush-vaccume loose soot particles from upholstery and carpets.
-Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can impregnate upholstery, walls and woodwork causing more damage.
-Cover carpet traffic areas with towels or old linens to prevent more soiling.
-Discard exposed open food packages. The food is probably contaminated.-If electricity is off, clean out freezer and refrigerator and doors propped open or place charcoal in unit.
-Clean chrome fixtures in kitchen and bath to keep from permanent tarnishing.
-Wipe residue from porcelain bath fixtures to prevent etching.
-Wipe leaves of house plants clean to remove smoke residue.
-Change air filters on forced hot air furnaces.
-Tape cheese cloth over intake and exit of hot air registers to capture any loose soot in the air. Damp cheese cloth is better.
-Air out house to modify smoke odor, if outside temperature is above 60 degrees.
Don't's
-Attempt to wash any un papered or flat painted walls without consultation with your professional cleaner. Incorrect cleaning procedures could compound the soil residue problem.
-Do not attempt to clean carpets or upholstered furniture. Again incorrect experience and procedures could compound the soil problem.
-Do not use electrical appliances that have been close to the fire or water before having them checked. They could malfunction.
-do not use ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. A short circuit cold result.
-Do not eat food that has been exposed to fire.
-Do not send clothing with heavy smoke damage to the cleaners without first deodorizing professionally.