Can Family Heirlooms Be Restored After Fire Damage?

11/20/2021 (Permalink)

Clothing damaged by a house fire may retain a smoky smell

While the idea of your home being struck by lightning may seem extremely rare, lightning fire is actually responsible for millions of dollars in property damage annually. If your home and belongings have fallen victim to a house fire in North Port, FL, there may still be hope for restoring some of your precious belongings. With the help of a reputable fire restoration specialist, priceless family heirlooms may be returned to their previous state. Before your restoration team arrives, be sure to follow these helpful tips to prevent any further damage or loss:

Handle Heirlooms With Caution and Care

In the immediate devastation of a lightning fire, it may be difficult to take a step back from your belongings before jumping-in to inspect them. Moving forward with the following precautions may prevent further damage:

• Avoid movement of damaged goods to prevent shifting soot and ash
• Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling damaged property
• Do not wash painted surfaces without first consulting a fire restoration service for advice

Refrain From Operating Electronic Devices

In a similar nature to water damage, fire and smoke damage can have severe effects on electronic devices. Operating electronics that you suspect have had contact with either fire or smoke may cause:

1. Immediate corrosion caused by smoke residue
2. Further hazards to your device or residence

Delay Sending Clothing to a Traditional Dry Cleaner

Clothing damaged by a house fire may retain a smoky smell permanently if not handled with the correct equipment. Even a traditional dry-cleaning service can leave smoke-exposed fabrics with fixed lasting odors. Any fabric or upholstery laden with ash, soot or smoke should be treated by professionals who deal with home restoration after a fire.

You may be left wondering which of your family heirlooms can be salvaged after a lightning fire in North Port, FL. Follow these simple tips to prevent further damage until restoration specialists arrive.