If a fire, flood, or storm has damaged your property, you may need professional help cleaning up. While you’re waiting for the restoration company to arrive, you might feel the urge to do something, so you are prepared for the experts. The professionals at Arkansas Restoration Services in Russellville advise their customers to take a few steps that make the recovery process easier—and avoid a few tasks for their health and safety. 

Below, the team shares the top five do’s and don’ts of waiting for help from a restoration company:

• Do Empty the Fridge: A fire or storm can cause a power outage. Even if you don’t have access to a stove or microwave, you may be able to save your food. Remove everything from the fridge and place it in ice-packed freezer chests to prevent spoiling. 
• Do Switch Off the Power & Gas: In the wake of a fire or flood, you might discover that your gas lines or electrical wires were damaged. Using compromised equipment is dangerous. As a safety precaution, turn off these services until professionals can assess the situation.
• Do Guard the Property: Your restoration company will board up the property to protect it from intruders and the elements. While you’re waiting, make sure the area is being monitored. Broken windows or doors can attract burglars, but they will be less likely to break in if they see someone watching the property.  
• Don’t Let Anyone Back Inside: If there’s smoke or mold in the property, don’t let kids, seniors, pets, or anyone with a compromised immune system back inside. Exposure to mold, mildew, and soot could make them sick. 
• Don’t Go Near the Damage: If you have to go back inside for any reason, make sure to avoid the destroyed areas. These spots tend to have the highest concentration of airborne pollutants, which puts your health at risk. 

Homeowners in Pope, Yell, Conway, and Johnson counties rely on Arkansas Restoration Services for everything from water damage repair and dehumidification to mold removal and smoke damage recovery. If your home was damaged by fire or water, call (479) 967-2018 to request service. Visit the restoration company online to discover how they’ll make your property look and feel like home again.