When a fire strikes your home or business, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. The truth is, the first 24 hours are critical—and making fire damage restoration mistakes during this time can slow recovery, increase costs, and put your safety at risk.
Unfortunately, many property owners unknowingly make missteps in the chaos after a fire. To help you avoid setbacks, here are seven mistakes to avoid in the first 24 hours after fire damage.
1. Reentering Before It’s Safe
It’s natural to want to rush back inside, but entering a fire-damaged property too soon can be extremely dangerous. Structural damage, weakened floors, and lingering smoke toxins put you at risk. Always wait for fire officials to confirm it’s safe before going back in.
2. Delaying Professional Fire Damage Restoration
The longer fire and smoke damage sits, the worse it gets. Ash and soot are highly acidic and can permanently stain surfaces within hours. Calling a professional fire damage restoration company immediately ensures cleanup begins before the damage becomes irreversible.
3. Attempting DIY Fire Cleanup
One of the most common fire damage restoration mistakes is trying to handle cleanup on your own. Without proper equipment and expertise, you risk spreading soot or embedding stains. Certified fire cleanup services use specialized tools to safely and effectively restore your property.
4. Ignoring Water Damage After the Fire
Most fires are extinguished with water or foam, which often leaves behind excess moisture. This can quickly lead to mold growth if not addressed. A trusted emergency restoration company will handle both fire and water damage together, protecting your property from secondary problems.
5. Throwing Away Salvageable Items
Not everything that looks ruined is beyond saving. Restoration professionals often use advanced cleaning and deodorization methods to restore belongings like furniture, electronics, and clothing. Before discarding items, check with your smoke damage repair specialists—they may be able to save more than you expect.
6. Overlooking Hidden Hazards
Even after the flames are gone, dangers remain. Electrical issues, damaged plumbing, or contaminated air ducts may not be obvious but can cause long-term problems if ignored. Professional fire restoration services include a thorough inspection to identify and address these hidden risks.
7. Failing to Contact Your Insurance Company Right Away
Insurance claims can be complicated, and delays often slow down your recovery. Contact your insurance company immediately, document all damage with photos, and keep records of expenses. Many fire restoration contractors work directly with insurance providers, making the claims process smoother for you.
Avoiding Fire Damage Restoration Mistakes
A fire is stressful, but avoiding these fire damage restoration mistakes in the first 24 hours can make your recovery smoother, safer, and more cost-effective. The key takeaway: don’t wait and don’t go it alone.
If you or someone you know has experienced fire damage, our team at Brookstone Restoration is available 24/7 for fire damage restoration, smoke cleanup, and emergency water damage services. We’ll guide you through every step of the recovery process—safely, efficiently, and with care.
👉 For additional resources on fire safety, visit the National Fire Protection Association.
