Do:
- Clean and protect chrome trim on taps and kitchen appliances with a light coating of petroleum jelly
- Blow off or brush-vacuum loose smoke particles from upholstery, drapes and carpets before normal traffic
- Open windows for ventilation
- Change furnace filter if blower was operating
- Empty freezer and refrigerator completely if electricity is off and prop open with a rolled newspaper
- Wash off laminate counter tops and horizontal surfaces of appliances
- Call a plumber to drain heating system if power is off
- Turn off electronics, particularly computers in and around the damaged area
Don’t:
- Wipe or attempt to wash walls, ceilings or other absorbent surfaces
- Use upholstered furniture if it can be avoided
- Foods in open packages in cupboards should not be consumed after a fire; most food items should be disposed of
- Send smoked garments to a dry cleaner until building is properly deodorized