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What to do:
- Discard open food packages. The food could be contaminated.
- If electrical service is off, clean out your freezer and refrigerator. Leave the doors propped open or place charcoal in the unit.
- Send clothing with heavy smoke damage to a qualified professional dry cleaner.
- Clean Formica chrome, porcelain and aluminum fixtures in the kitchen and bathroom to prevent permanent tarnishing or etching.
- Change the air filter on your furnace if it uses forced hot air.
- Tape cheesecloth over intake and outlet air registers to capture any loose soot in the air. This is even more effective if the cheesecloth is damp.
- If the outside temperature is above 60 degrees, air out the house to reduce smoke odor.
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What not to do:
- Do not attempt to touch or wash any papered or flat painted walls without contacting your professional cleaner.
- Incorrect cleaning procedures could compound the soot residue problem and oil from your skin could cause additional damage.
- Do not attempt to clean carpets or upholstered furniture. Again, incorrect procedures could increase damage.
- Do not use electrical appliances that have been close to fire or water before having them checked. They could malfunction.
- Do not use ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. A short circuit could result.
- Do not touch anything. Soot on your hands can permeate upholstery, walls and woodwork, causing further damage.
- Do not eat food that has been exposed to fire or smoke.
- Do not wait to call for professional help.
- Do not attempt to start your computer as it may be subject to additional damage.
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What to do:
- When the outside temperature is above 60 degrees, use dehumidifiers if available.
- Use fans in conjunction with dehumidification equipment to circulate the air and assist drying.
- Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting.
- Wipe furniture dry.
- Lift draperies off carpet, loop through a coat hanger, and place the hanger on the drapery rod.
- Prop up wet furniture cushions for even drying and place small wood blocks or aluminum foil under furniture legs.
- Remove wet area rugs or other floor coverings.
- Open furniture drawers, closet doors, and luggage to enhance drying.
- Move photos, paintings and art objects to a safe, dry location. Remove damp books from shelves and spread out to dry.
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What not to do:
- Do not use an ordinary household vacuum to remove water.
- Do not use electrical appliances while on wet carpet or wet floors.
- Do not go into rooms with standing water if the electricity is still on.
- Do not lift tacked-down carpet without professional help.
- Lifting the carpet incorrectly could promote damage and delamination.
- Do not wait to call for professional help. Damage from the water and bacteria growth can begin within hours.
- Do not disturb mold if it is visible.
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