Fire Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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With all the recent smoke and fires in the Pueblo area, it is a good reminder to take a second look at your smoke alarms.

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half. 

The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters, and on every level of the house. Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met. 

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees, or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation. 

SMOKE ALARM SAFETY TIPS

  • Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement. 
  • Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10ft. from a cooking appliance. 
  • Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button. 
  • Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm "chirps", the battery is low and should be replaced right away. 
  • Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.  

Have Smoke or Fire Damage? Call (719) 544-7165

What To Do After A Fire

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
  • Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
  • Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
  • If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
  • Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
  • Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
  • Change HVAC filter.
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

  • Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
  • Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
  • Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
  • Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

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