3 reasons why to hire a Certified Restoration Firm is Crucial After Fire and Smoke Damage

Air quality

Soot exposure can lead to breathing problems, asthma flare-ups, and long-term lung damage, especially in children and elderly individuals.

A fire in your home or business is devastating, leaving behind more than just structural damage. Smoke and soot can infiltrate every corner of your property, causing hidden health hazards and long-term deterioration if not properly treated. Hiring a certified restoration firm like PuroClean of Downers Grove ensures your property is restored safely, efficiently, and up to industry standards.

The Hidden Dangers of Fire and Smoke Damage

Even after the flames are extinguished, the damage continues:

🔥 Toxic Residue – Smoke leaves behind microscopic particles that can linger in walls, furniture, and HVAC systems, releasing harmful toxins into the air.

💨 Respiratory Issues – Soot exposure can lead to breathing problems, asthma flare-ups, and long-term lung damage, especially in children and elderly individuals.

⚠️ Structural Damage – Heat from a fire weakens building materials, while smoke and water from firefighting efforts can cause rot, corrosion, and mold growth.

Smoke leaves behind microscopic particles that can linger in walls, furniture, and HVAC systems, releasing harmful toxins into the air.

Why You Need a Certified Restoration Firm

Restoration isn’t just about cleaning up the visible damage—it requires expertise and industry-approved techniques to ensure safety and full recovery. Certified restoration professionals:

✔️ Follow Industry Standards – Using IICRC-certified methods, we properly remove soot, deodorize spaces, and prevent future hazards.

✔️ Use Advanced Equipment – High-powered air scrubbers, HEPA vacuums, and thermal fogging eliminate harmful residues and odors.

✔️ Ensure Health & Safety – A certified firm understands the risks of smoke exposure and ensures your home is safe for occupancy.

✔️ Work With Insurance – We help navigate the claims process, ensuring you get the coverage you deserve.

knowing the right steps after calling the fire department can help ensure safety and a smooth recovery. Here’s what to do:

1. Ensure Everyone’s Safety

✅ Evacuate Immediately – Follow your fire escape plan and get everyone, including pets, out of the house.

✅ Do Not Re-enter – Even if the fire seems small, wait for the fire department to declare it safe.

2. Seek Medical Attention if Necessary

🔥 Check for Smoke Inhalation or Injuries – Even minor exposure to smoke can cause respiratory issues. Seek medical attention if needed.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company

📞 File a Claim – Notify your homeowners’ insurance provider as soon as possible to start the claims process.

📸 Document the Damage – Take pictures and videos of the damage before any cleanup.

4. Secure the Property

Boarding up your home prevents further damage

🔒 Board Up & Tarp Services – Prevent further damage from weather or vandalism. A restoration company can help secure your home.

💡 Shut Off Utilities – If safe, turn off gas, water, and electricity to prevent further hazards.

5. Call a Certified Fire Restoration Company

restoration and renovation after fire. Worker removes damaged paint layer from wall and ceiling indoors.

🛠️ Professional Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration – Contact a certified team like PuroClean of Downers Grove for immediate cleanup.

💨 Smoke & Soot Removal – Soot is toxic and can permanently stain surfaces if not cleaned properly.

6. Salvage What You Can

📦 Recover Valuables – If safe, collect important documents, medications, and valuables.

🛏️ Be Cautious with Furniture & Clothing – Smoke damage can be hazardous; only keep items that can be fully cleaned.

7. Find Temporary Housing

🏡 Stay with Family or in a Hotel – Depending on the damage, you may need temporary housing while repairs take place. Your insurance policy may cover hotel stays.

8. Start the Repair & Restoration Process

✅ Work With a Professional Restoration Team – Certified experts will handle:

• Structural repairs

• Smoke odor removal

• Water damage mitigation from firefighting efforts

• Insurance claim assistance

9. Replace Important Documents

📜 If Lost or Damaged, Replace:

• Driver’s license & Social Security card

• Passport & birth certificates

• Insurance policies & financial records

10. Plan for the Future

🔥 Review Fire Prevention Measures – Install smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and a fire escape plan to be better prepared.

Need Emergency Fire Damage Restoration?

If you’ve experienced a house fire, PuroClean of Downers Grove is here to help with 24/7 emergency restoration services. Call us today for fast, professional recovery! 🚨

Don’t Wait—Act Fast!

The longer fire and smoke damage is left untreated, the more difficult and costly restoration becomes. If you’ve experienced a fire, contact PuroClean of Downers Grove immediately. Our certified team is ready 24/7 to restore your property and protect your health.

📞 Call us today at (630) 796-0206 for an assessment!