After the fire is out and the smoke has cleared, call ServiceMaster of Utica in Utica, New York to help with the cleanup and increase your chances of a complete recovery.

To help ensure a successful restoration, here are a few things you should and should not do after disaster strikes.

What to do:

• Call ServiceMaster of Utica immediately. Corrosive byproducts from fire and smoke can cause etching that is irreversible in as few as 72 hours.
• Air out your home by opening windows and doors to reduce the smoke odor.
• To prevent permanent tarnishing or etching, clean any Formica, chrome, porcelain and aluminum fixtures.
• If you use forced air, clean the air filter in your furnace.
• To capture any loose soot in the air, cover important documents with damp cheesecloth.
• Throw out any open food packages.
• Turn off the electricity to your refrigerator, clean thoroughly and leave the doors propped open.
• Take any clothing with heavy smoke damage to a dry cleaner who is qualified in restoration.

What not to do:

• Don't touch anything like upholstery, walls and woodwork. Oil from your hands can permeate cloth and wood, causing additional damage.
• Do not attempt to wash your walls. Cleaning incorrectly can compound the soot residue.
• Do not attempt to clean carpets or upholstery yourself. Call a professional like ServiceMaster of Utica.
• Do not use any electrical appliances until they have been checked thoroughly by a professional.
•  If the ceiling is wet, do not use ceiling fixtures.