Grease fires are fast-moving blazes that can cause serious damage quickly. Cleaning afterward takes specialized skills and knowledge to safely restore the devastated areas as efficiently as possible. Here is a breakdown of how grease fire cleanup is done after this property disaster has occurred.

Kitchen Cleanup

The first step after a property disaster like a grease fire is to clean soot and leftover grease as soon as possible. This contains the devastation to the kitchen and stops it from spreading to other areas. Property disaster restoration teams will wipe down cabinets, countertops, and floors. They’ll remove drawers and shelving to get to every corner since grease and soot will travel into the tiniest areas. In severe cases, the entire cabinet may need to be removed. It’s also recommended that damaged cabinets and drawers be sanded, resealed, and painted or stained for optimal results.

Restoration teams try to save appliances, such as the refrigerator, unless it was severely damaged in the blaze. If the fridge no longer seals shut but the appliance is in good shape, door gaskets will need to be replaced and filters, fans, and other components will need a thorough cleaning, especially in the back and underneath. Unfortunately, oven ranges and microwaves nearby or over a stovetop are usually too damaged to be salvaged. Soot and grease fire damage sets in too deeply in the plastic and grills to be purged enough for use.

Finally, discard produce and open containers of food, as they are contaminated by the fire and unsafe for consumption. Toss boxed food since the cardboard may not be a strong enough barrier against soot and odors. Sealed canned items are safe to keep, however.

Whole House Assessment

Fire and smoke odors move quickly to other parts of the house through the ducts and vents. Even if the fire was put out promptly, smoke and soot will get trapped in furniture, curtains, bedding, rugs and carpets, and clothing. While a fire and smoke odor removal team can purge lingering smells and wipe down walls, vents, and other surfaces, it’s also best to have upholstery and carpet cleaning to eliminate property disaster stains and scents from everything else.

Once the team has finished their work, remove any clothing, curtains, and furniture covers that you can clean yourself in the washing machine or send to the dry cleaner. As for HVAC and duct systems, replace any filters to stop soot remaining inside from contaminating the space again.

When you’ve experienced property disaster, FloodCo is there to help. Serving the Flathead Valley and communities in northwest Montana, their professional team is prepared to help clients restore property after floods, fires, and mold have permeated the space. Fully licensed and insured, they provide emergency water removal, mold remediation, and fire and smoke odor removal. For a complete list of their services, visit them online or call (406) 892-1717 today.