Securing Your Property After a Fire

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Protect Your Property From Further Damage

After a fire at your Columbus, GA property, you may feel overwhelmed with getting the insurance straightened out, repairing the property and handling everything else you have to do. Safety measures may be the last thing on your mind.  However, it is important to protect your property from further damage, which can take many forms.

1. Prevention of a Second Fire

If the fire department was called to the scene, the firefighters will make sure the fire is completely out. If you put the fire out yourself, it is up to you to ensure the fire is fully extinguished. Make sure to check for any lingering flames or still-smoldering embers, as these could quickly turn into a full-blown blaze. If an appliance is to blame for the fire, make sure to turn it off. In the case of an electrical fire, be sure to turn off the electricity until an electrician does an inspection and repairs any faulty wiring.

2. Protection From Unwanted Visitors

Unfortunately, some people consider fire-damaged buildings to be ideal targets for burglary. Your security system may have been damaged in the fire, and vandals are likely able to cut through tarps and plywood. Luckily, a security fence can add an additional layer of protection. Not only can a fence help prevent burglaries; it also keeps out curious people who may injure themselves on your property and hold you liable.

3. Protection Against Mother Nature

Make sure to board up or tarp over any holes in the structure, including windows that the fire department may have broken in order to release smoke. Doing so prevents rainwater and wildlife from further harming your building and its contents.

The first step of the fire restoration process is preventing further damage. A certified restoration team can determine if you need tarps, plywood, a security fence or some combination of these and other protective measures to keep your building safe from after-fire dangers.