Getting things back to normal quickly is always the goal when your home or business is damaged by fire. When fire strikes during the winter months, however, quick response is even more important, with freezing temperatures compounding the damage with every passing moment.
Fire damage presents a unique set of challenges in any circumstances because it does not happen alone. With fire damage, you will also have heat and smoke damage, potential toxic fumes from materials that burned, and water damage from putting out the fire. Add freezing temperatures and one of the biggest concerns is additional structural damage that occurs when water in pipes and the water used to put out the fire freezes.
Immediate fire response
When you are the victim of a fire, your first actions are to ensure the safety of those involved, including family members or colleagues, and to call 911. Next steps are to start the recovery process. You need restoration services that respond immediately to protect your property. These services should include:
- Boarding of doors and windows to provide security from looters.
- Tarping of open roofs or walls to protect from the elements.
- Guidance for handling utilities, including gas and water service, to protect from additional damage due to freezing temperatures.
- Immediate assessment of damage and insurance estimates so restoration can begin right away.
Your professional fire recovery technician will focus first steps on preventing the additional damage harsh winter conditions can cause. This means removing water quickly and incorporating advanced drying techniques to prevent freezing, as well as detailed inspections for any structural damage that may have occurred due to the cold. Getting the heat turned back on is a priority to maintain the integrity of the structure.
Prevent winter fires
Among the most common causes of house fires in the winter are cooking accidents and misuse of space heaters, and both are easily prevented simply by being attentive. Cold weather drives people indoors where they are cooking meals and trying to stay warm. These basic tips can prevent a fire:
- Stay in the kitchen while cooking a meal. Never leave a pot unattended on the stove.
- Use space heaters only as directed and never near anything flammable, such as curtains, bedding, or decorations. Space heaters should have ample open space around them at all times and should be turned off at night.
- Fireplaces that are used even occasionally should be inspected and cleaned on a regular basis – annually if used often. Never leave a fire burning at night.
- Faulty wiring and overloaded circuits, especially in older homes, are common causes of fires. If you are uncertain of the wiring in your home, have it inspected by a professional.
If you need fire restoration services for your home or business, contact the experts at Lewis Construction, or click here for more information about reconstruction services from Lewis, including fire, smoke, water, wind, and storm damage recovery.