Smoke & Fire Damage

Our content division at ServiceMaster by Rapid Response can bring peace of mind to any sudden and unforeseen crisis or disaster. Our specialized trained technicians utilize the latest equipment and cleaning agents in the restoration industry.

On Site Content Cleaning

When a residence or business sustains fire damage, the interior contents may get damaged by smoke, soot and even water. Once the source and origin of the damage has been identified we can then evaluate it and begin professional cleaning and deodorization.  

The affected contents will undergo a detailed cleaning using some of the following steps: HEPA vacuuming, wet cleaning, hand dry sponge cleaning and deodorization. The upholstered soft goods, draperies and cloth shades will be addressed depending on the textile and condition of each item. These items will then be cleaned by vacuuming, wet extraction cleaning and/or solvent dry cleaning.  The hard furniture goods are cleaned and deodorized with a mild alkaline cleaner followed by a cream polish.  Additional textiles that may be damaged including clothing and fabric related articles will require professional attention by a restoration dry cleaner. ServiceMaster by Rapid Response works with experts in the field to ensure that your items are restored back to their pre-loss condition.

On Site Structure Cleaning

The interior structure of the residence or business may require the walls and ceilings to be cleaned depending on the severity of the fire. Our standard process utilizes a dry sponge cleaning method to wipe over the affected smoke damaged areas on most flat painted surfaces. The washable painted areas, which may include the trim, base and doors are cleaned with a mild alkaline ServiceMaster cleaner specifically developed to break down the particulates of smoke and soot. Our technicians will then clean the interior windows and tracks, as well as the light fixtures, ceiling fans, bathroom fixtures and hardware, etc. Carpet will be cleaned by steam extraction and then deodorized.  Hard floor surfaces such as: ceramic tile, vinyl and wood floors will be cleaned with a ServiceMaster floor cleaner followed by a sealer, if required.

Heating and Air

In a smoke or fire loss, the structure’s air conditioning and/or heating system may require cleaning and purging. In the event the HVAC system requires cleaning, all air registers are removed and cleaned. The duct lines are then vacuumed inside from each register as far as possible to remove any loose soot and smoke residue. The system is now ready to be purged with a negative charge along with the encapsulation. Once this process has been completed, a new air filter is provided to replace the previous one in the unit and all registers are then reinstalled.

Deodorization  

We utilize an assortment of deodorization methods to neutralize odors. During the restoration process, we are continuously applying some form of deodorization when cleaning the contents and structure. Some of the applications we provide include:

• Ozone Deodorization
• Dry Absorption Odor Crystals
• Absorption Blocks or Gel
• Wet Fogging
• Dry Thermal Fogging
• OdorKlenz-Air Cartridge Air Scrubbing System
• ServiceMaster Clean Deodorizers and Cleaning Agents

What To Do and What Not To Do

What to do:

• Call a professional restoration company as soon at possible, since corrosive byproducts (i.e. – smoke and soot) can cause irreversible etching in as few as 72 hours.
• If the temperature is above 60 degrees, air out the house to reduce smoke odor.
• Clean Formica, chrome, porcelain and aluminum fixtures to prevent permanent tarnishing or etching.
• Change the air filter on your furnace if it uses forced hot air.
• Tape damp cheesecloth over returns and supply registers to capture loose soot in the air.
• Discard any open food packages.
• If the electricity is turned off, clean out the refrigerator and leave doors propped open.
• Send clothing with heavy smoke damage to a qualified restoration dry cleaner.

What not to do:

• Do not touch anything with your bare hands. Oil from your hands can permeate upholstery, walls and woodwork, causing additional damage.
• Do not wash walls. Incorrect cleaning could compound the soot residue.
• Do not attempt to clean carpets or upholstered furniture.
• Do not use electrical appliances until having them checked.
• Do not use ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet.