Innovative Technologies Powering Smoke Odor Removal in Fire Damage Restoration

6/7/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville utilizes the latest technology available to eliminate all traces of fire and smoke.

Navigating the Aftermath of Fire Damage

At SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville, we understand the challenges homeowners face in the aftermath of a fire. Beyond the visible destruction, smoke odors linger, infiltrating every nook and corner of your property. Our fire damage restoration services are designed to not only address the visible damage but also to restore your home's ambiance by effectively and permanently eliminating smoke odors. In this article, we'll dive into the innovative technologies powering smoke odor removal, giving you insights into our process and the cutting-edge solutions we employ right here in Nashville, Percy Priest, and surrounding areas.

The Technologies Used for Smoke Odor Removal

Smoke odor particles are notoriously stubborn. They cling to surfaces and nestle deep into porous materials, making them difficult to dislodge. This is why simple surface cleaning or air freshening efforts often fall short. To ensure a thorough smoke odor removal, we use state-of-the-art technologies designed specifically for the task.

1. Ozone Generators: Introducing Reactive Oxygen

Ozone generators produce ozone, a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms. This molecule is highly reactive, meaning it can interact and neutralize odor-causing smoke particles at a molecular level. While highly effective, the area needs to be temporarily evacuated during treatment due to the reactive nature of ozone.

1. Hydroxyl Generators: Harnessing the Power of UV Radiation

Our hydroxyl generators use UV radiation to produce hydroxyl radicals. These highly reactive molecules can neutralize a wide range of odors, including those caused by smoke. Unlike ozone generators, hydroxyl generators can be safely used in occupied areas, offering a gentler yet effective solution for materials sensitive to ozone.

1. Thermal Foggers: Deep Penetration for Stubborn Odors

Thermal foggers work by heating a deodorizing solution and converting it into a fine fog or mist. This mist penetrates deeply into affected materials, effectively neutralizing the smoke odor. The ability of the thermal fog to reach inaccessible areas makes it ideal for comprehensive smoke odor removal.

1. Air Scrubbers: Purifying the Air

Air scrubbers are critical in the process of smoke odor removal. These machines draw in air from the surrounding environment, pass it through a series of filters, and remove contaminants, including smoke particles. The HEPA filters used in these devices can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns, effectively eliminating smoke odors from the air.

1. Vapor Diffusion Technology: Innovative Approach to Odor Neutralization

Some odor situations call for advanced solutions like vapor diffusion. In this process, a proprietary compound is heated and released as a vapor into the space. This vapor penetrates porous surfaces, neutralizing odor molecules lodged deep within.

1. High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Vacuuming: Detailing Your Space

HEPA vacuums are employed during the cleaning process to remove smoke residue from surfaces before deodorization. These vacuums capture small particulate matter, including smoke particles, thereby helping in reducing the smoke odor in your property.

Trust the Experts in Fire Damage Restoration

Smoke odor removal is a critical part of fire damage restoration. This task requires advanced technology and expertise for effective results. At SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville, we combine innovative tools and methodologies with our highly trained team to ensure that your home is not only restored from visible fire damage but also from lingering smoke odors.

Remember, effective fire damage restoration goes beyond surface cleaning. It involves a deep, thorough process, addressing both visible and invisible damage to return your home to pre-fire conditions. Our professional team is equipped and ready to help you through this challenging time, offering solutions designed to restore comfort and safety to your home. Reach out to us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you recover from fire damage.

The Fire Damage Restoration Timeline: What to Expect During the Process

4/6/2023 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration team is here to help you whether you live in Percy Priest, or anywhere else in the Nashville Metropolitan area.

When a fire wreaks havoc on your home or business, it can be an overwhelming experience. After the flames have been extinguished, the fire damage restoration process begins. Understanding the timeline and what to expect during each stage can help alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty surrounding this difficult time. In this article, we will outline the key steps involved in fire damage restoration and provide a general timeline of the process, highlighting the importance of choosing a reputable company like SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville to guide you through the journey.

Initial Assessment and Inspection

The first step in the fire damage restoration process is an initial assessment and inspection of the property. This typically occurs within 24 hours of contacting a professional restoration company. This is also the ideal moment for our team to help you if your property insurance company is involved. During this stage, restoration experts from SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville will visit your property to evaluate the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This information will help form the basis of a restoration plan, including an estimated timeline, cost for the project. 

Securing and Stabilizing the Property

Once the initial assessment is complete, the next step is to secure and stabilize your property. This might involve boarding up windows, covering holes in the roof, or setting up temporary support structures to prevent further damage or collapse. This process helps ensure the safety of both the property owners and the restoration team throughout the remainder of the project.

Water Extraction and Drying

If water was used to extinguish the fire, it's crucial to address any remaining moisture quickly to prevent further damage and mold growth. The water extraction and drying process usually begins within 48 hours of the initial inspection. During this stage, professional restoration technicians from SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville will use specialized equipment, such as industrial-strength dehumidifiers and air movers, to remove excess water and facilitate the drying process. 

Cleaning and Soot Removal

Once the property is dry, the cleaning and soot removal process begins. This typically takes place within a few days to a week following the initial inspection, depending on the extent of the damage. Technicians from SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville will meticulously clean all surfaces, remove soot and smoke residue, and deodorize the property using specialized cleaning techniques and equipment.

Restoration and Repairs

The final stage of the fire damage restoration process involves restoring and repairing your property to its pre-fire condition. This can include tasks such as painting, replacing drywall, installing new flooring, or even more extensive reconstruction work. The duration of this phase can vary greatly depending on the extent of the damage and the scope of the repairs needed. However, a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville will work diligently to ensure your property is restored as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Conclusion

The fire damage restoration process can be a lengthy and complex journey, but understanding the timeline and what to expect during each stage can help make the experience more manageable. By partnering with a reputable and experienced company like SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville, you can rest assured that your property is in capable hands and will be restored to its former glory in the shortest possible time.

If you find yourself in need of fire damage restoration services, don't hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville. Our team of highly trained professionals is ready to help you navigate the process and provide the expert care your property needs. Contact us today to begin your journey toward a fully restored and revitalized home or business.

A Home Fire Extinguisher Buying Guide

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

Extinguishers are classified in accordance with standard 10 set by the National Fire Protection Agency.

Every home should have a fire extinguisher to suppress minor fires. This buying guide identifies the main classes of fire extinguishers and explains why a multi-class or rechargeable extinguisher may be ideal for home use.

Extinguisher Classes

Extinguishers are classified in accordance with standard 10 set by the National Fire Protection Agency. Suppressants are selected for effectiveness and safety:

• Class A extinguishers contain monoammonium phosphate and work on ordinary combustibles
• Class B extinguishers contain monoammonium phosphate and sodium bicarbonate and work on flammable liquids or gases, but not cooking oils or grease
• Class C extinguishers contain monoammonium phosphate and sodium bicarbonate and work on appliances or powered electrical equipment
• Class D extinguishers contain sodium chloride or copper powder and work on combustible metals
• Class K extinguishers contain potassium compounds and work on cooking oils and grease

The most common home fire extinguishers are classes A, B, and C. Underwriters Laboratories assigns the number that precedes these letters and indicates the effectiveness of a fire extinguisher. A 4-A extinguisher is more effective than a 2-A extinguisher.

Multi-Class Extinguishers

Some extinguishers are rated for multiple classes. Homeowners may prefer a multi-class extinguisher to promote comprehensive fire preparedness. Determine the most likely fire risks and purchase an extinguisher rated for all of these classes.

Disposable or Rechargeable

Disposable extinguishers have plastic valves and must be replaced after a single-use. Rechargeable extinguishers have durable metal valves and cost more upfront. Suppressant refills are more affordable than purchasing a new disposable extinguisher.

All of these factors are important to consider when purchasing home fire safety equipment for a residence in Smith Springs, TN. Homeowners may want to install a different class of fire extinguisher in the kitchen, garage, laundry room, and other areas based on the most likely fire risks. If a fire results in property damage, contact a mitigation and restoration company.

3 Things to Remember About the Fire Alarms in Your Home

12/31/2021 (Permalink)

You should locate a smoke alarm in each room.

Tips To Help You Maintain Your Fire Alarm and Home Safe

When you install a fire alarm in your Percy Priest, TN home there are a few things you may want to keep in mind to ensure it functions properly. The following tips can help you maintain these units, and keep your home safe.

1. Where They Should Be Located

Many professionals, such as those working at your local fire damage restoration service, recommend that an alarm be located inside each bedroom. An alarm should also be outside the bedrooms, although only a single unit is needed if there is a shared hallway outside multiple rooms. Additionally, it’s important to have an alarm on each floor of the home, and in high-risk areas such as the kitchen.

2. How Many You Should Have

It’s recommended that a fire alarm be located in multiple places throughout the home. Thus when calculating how many alarms you should have you may need to do a little math. You should have a minimum of one alarm per floor and one for each bedroom. Add to that an alarm for each high-risk location and you will have the total units for your space.

3. When You Should Change the Batteries

An alarm that doesn’t work won’t help protect your home from fire damage. This is why it’s highly recommended that you change the batteries in your alarms at least once a year. Most professionals recommend choosing an easy-to-remember date and always changing your battery then in order to maintain a regular schedule. One example is daylight savings when you are already changing any clocks.

Remember when placing a new fire alarm in your home that it should be located in a place where it can easily be heard. You should have one in each bedroom, and one in shared spaces such as the kitchen. You should also regularly maintain any units in your home. Remember, if a fire does occur, a restoration service can help. If your home does sustain fire or smoke damage restoration service can help.

Nashville Christmas Tree Fire Prevention

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Christmas Tree

Christmas is here in Nashville, TN and fully loaded with the wonderful sights, sounds, and aromas! Music fills the house with the melodic joys of years gone by and those to come. Traditionally, a Christmas tree is the centerpiece of the family’s holiday. The tree is colorful and adorned with memories and beauty that we wait all year to see. If your family purchases live trees, the fragrance of Christmas fills the room with holiday cheer. The gifts underneath say that family is the real present of the season. SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville celebrates that treasure with you, because we believe that family is everything!

The Fire Damage Threat

The National Fire Prevention Association (nfpa.org) states that Christmas trees are the cause of an average of 160 house fires per year. The trees and needles are rich with highly flammable oils that can combust easily. Couple that dynamic with the oxygen in the large surface area, and porous structure of the tree, and you have a beautiful natural threat to your home without the proper caution and care. Additionally, short circuits in cheaply made Christmas lights are capable of igniting a fire that can quickly get out of control and cause real fire damage to your home and family. Even LED lights can get hot enough to catch fire.

Christmas Tree Safety Measures to Prevent Fire

If you enjoy live Christmas trees, make sure to take the appropriate safety measures to limit the possibilities of home fire damage this season. Keep your tree appropriately watered as the dryer the condition, the more flammable. Purchase quality lights and make sure that they are safely connected to each other and the electrical source. Install trees away from wood burning fireplaces, candles, heaters, and stoves. Also, keep your trees as far away as possible from hent vents. Turn off the lights when you sleep or are away from home. Finally, keep a fire extinguisher in the rooms where your trees are displayed.

Rock Around that Tannenbaum

At SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville, we hope your season is truly joyous and peaceful. In the hustle and bustle of the season, remember to be present and fully take in every sweet moment.  As you enjoy your family and friends, rest in the fact that you took every precaution to protect what is most important to you this holiday season! We wish all our valued SERVPRO of Southeast Nashville customers and friends a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

How To Stop a Fire Alarm From Beeping

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Change the batteries of your smoke alarm every six months.

How to Turn Off a Fire Alarm

A fire alarm that starts beeping when there is no fire or smoke requires maintenance. The specific steps to reset your alarm or change the battery depend on the alarm design. Here are three ways to determine what is wrong with an alarm and ensure that it is functioning properly to limit fire damage.

1. Reset and Clean the Alarm

If you are using an alarm powered by a nine-volt battery, detach the unit from the mounting bracket and remove the battery. Press and hold the reset button on a sealed 10-year model with a lithium battery. If the alarm is hardwired, turn off the power supply at the circuit breaker, detach the detector from the mounting bracket, and disconnect the power supply (if present). Press and hold the test button for 15 to 20 seconds. You can also use an air blower to clean out the vents prior to reinstalling the alarm.

2. Change the Batteries

If a fire alarm powered by a replaceable battery starts beeping again, you probably need to change the battery. Switch out nine-volt or other replaceable batteries every six months to one year.

3. Deactivate and Replace the Alarm

If an alarm keeps beeping after being cleaned and having the battery changed, you may need to replace the unit. Remove the batteries from models that rely on them before purchasing and installing another alarm unit. If the model has a sealed 10-year long-life battery, disconnect the alarm and use a screwdriver to pierce the icon of a straight line next to an arrow on the back. Turn the screw to the off position to permanently deactivate the model and drain the battery.

A functional fire alarm can help you limit the amount of fire damage to your residence in Hickory Hollow, TN. If a fire breaks out, contact a fire and smoke damage restoration company.

How To Restore Your Home Post-Fire

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

Severe fire damage in an Antioch, TN home.

How to Restore Your Home After a Fire

In Antioch, TN, there are quick and easy steps every homeowner and renter can take to begin cleaning the home. While you should wait to clean any surfaces or items thoroughly until a restoration professional has surveyed and tested the space, here is what you can do right away to decrease smoke damage.

1. Purify the Air

The first task is to replace the HVAC filters to help clean the air in your home. Other ways to begin this process is to allow air to circulate by opening windows and to wipe down any houseplants so they can also aid in purifying the air. For more persistent odor, placing a bowl of white vinegar in the room may reduce the smoke smell. These are small actions to take that can make a big difference in the time leading up to a professional reaching the site.

2. Cleaning of Soot To Reduce Damage

Soot coating the walls and floors add to the odor from smoke damage. Soot and smoke cleaning should be postponed until a professional technician is on-site to care for these tasks personally. However, a light gloss of oil or petroleum jelly on chrome can prevent further soot damage.

3. Limit Foot Traffic

Minimizing movement through the house keeps soot and smoke stains from being ground into the carpets and rugs. The key to reducing the damage in your home is to decrease contact with the stains and stagnant air, so lay down protective coverings in areas where you need to walk. This also helps to prepare for when a survey of the area is done by a professional.

Experiencing a fire in your home can be daunting, but taking these simple steps against smoke damage can make restoring the space easier. Your safety is most important so, while you can take action to clean your home, consulting a professional is likely to ensure the safest restoration possible.

Improve Dryer Efficiency and Reduce Fire Risk by Cleaning

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

Proper dryer maintenance and cleaning protects your home from the danger of a lint fire.

Cleaning Your Dryer Will Increase Its Efficiency And Reduce The Risk Of A Fire.

If you notice your dryer is not functioning properly, you should act immediately. Your Hickory Hollow, TN home is at risk of fire when the dryer cannot properly redistribute heat. Proper dryer maintenance and cleaning protects your home from the danger of a lint fire.

Know the Symptoms of a Dryer Vent Clog

There are several telltale signs that you should clean and inspect your dryer:

• Unusually long time for clothes to dry
• Clothes much hotter than they used to
• A burning smell
• Lint spilling out of the hose

These warning signs mean you should immediately stop using the dryer and clean it. Running the dryer when it shows any of these signs could cause a dryer fire.

Remove Excess Lint From the Lint Trap

Depending on the model, you should be able to find a lint screen on the bottom, top or side of the dryer. The screen may come out fully but should not be forced out.

Once you have the screen out as far as it’ll go, lint can be cleaned up using your hands, a brush or vacuum. The lint needs to be fully removed from the sheet to prevent a potential lint fire. Before putting the screen back, it’s advised to vacuum out the empty lint trap area.

Check the Exhausts for Lint

After disconnecting the dryer and removing the exhaust hose from the wall, the hose should be checked for any lint. If there is lint, a lengthy cleaning brush tool from a vent cleaning kit should be snaked through and back to fish up any lint until no more comes out.

If there is an exterior vent in your home, it is good practice to regularly clean its screen of lint too.

Prepare for the Worst Regardless

Your home can be protected from a lint fire, but fire damage always needs a plan. A local fire restoration company can assist you with a fire and should be kept as an emergency contact. Thankfully, cleaning the dryer regularly saves you from fire damage to worry about.

How to Handle Fire Damage and Water Damage to Your Home

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a property in Smith Springs, TN.

How Do I Deal With Fire and Water Damage In My Home?

If the unthinkable happens, and your home catches on fire, the first thing you want is for the fire department to do whatever is necessary to put out the fire. You don’t want it to spread, and you want as little fire damage as possible. However, once the fire is out, you have to worry about damage from the smoke as well as water damage to your walls, floors, electronics and many other belongings in the home. A firefighter will use a lot of water to put out a fire with his or her fire hose, so the cleanup effort can be massive. Fortunately, you have help in Smith Springs, TN, to get things under control.

1. The consequences of fire damage and water damage are nothing to take lightly. It’s obvious that the fire can destroy parts of your structure, but even the acidic soot from the fire can ruin your possessions and precious belongings. Because so much water comes from a firefighter’s fire hose, the water can completely ruin your carpet or hardwood floors as well. Walls and metals can become discolored and rusted, and many of your electronic devices will no longer be useful.

2. There are a few things you can do on your own to minimize the problems. If you act quickly and begin to thoroughly clean your floors and walls with soap, you may be able to salvage these areas to some degree. However, you won’t likely do as well as a professional would.

3. It’s best to get in touch with an expert in fire restoration. In Smith Springs, TN, you can hire experienced, skilled experts who have the know-how and tools to help remove the bad odors and salvage your belongings following a fire. Research carefully so you hire a company that has all the necessary training and certifications you want in a professional.

Fire damage and water damage from a fire hose can be extensive. When you hire the best companies to help restore your home, you can have peace of mind.

Preventing a Dryer Fire: 4 Safety Tips

3/30/2021 (Permalink)

Clint the lint trap of your dryer after every use.

Tips To Reduce The Possibility Of A Dryer Fire

Safeguarding your Nashville, TN home from fire damage means reducing clutter, installing smoke detectors on every floor and keeping lighters and matches away from children, but one potential fire cause you may not consider is your clothes dryer. A lint fire can spread quickly because of the dryness of the material and blaze out of control before you know it. Fortunately, there are a few tips you can keep in mind to reduce the possibility of this type of fire.

1. Clean the Filter With Each Use

Lint buildup is often the main cause of a dryer fire, so remind each family member who uses the unit to completely empty the filter after each use. Wipe it clean with a soft cloth and dispose of the lint in another room, far away from any heat source.

2. Check the Duct Pipe Weekly

Lint may collect in other areas of the dryer other than the filter, such as the vent or duct pipe. Using the high heat setting during a load could ignite the lint trapped there and cause a serious fire to spread throughout your home. It is wise to check the duct weekly, after you finish your wash, to clear away any trapped lint.

3. Keep the Dryer Area Clean

Dust, cobwebs and clutter around your dryer could increase the chances of a lint fire. A small fire could spread faster when it has more items to consume, so practice proper fire safety by cleaning around your dryer at least once a week. Sweep away hair, dust and lint, and then move the dryer to clean underneath it as well.

4. Call in a Professional

If you are unsure about how to maintain dryer fire safety, calling in a fire restoration and mitigation service for advice about placement and cleaning may offer you peace of mind. This can be especially important if you keep your dryer on the ground floor of your home where a fire might cause more damage.

Keeping your home safe from a lint fire does not have to be difficult. Proper operation of the unit and keeping these tips in mind can safeguard your home and family.

How To Pick and Use the Right Fire Extinguisher

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Putting the right fire extinguisher on each floor of your home can keep your house safe

A fire extinguisher is an important feature of any home. Yet not everyone knows what type of extinguishers they should buy. There are three main types of extinguishers, each of which has a different function:

A
B
C

Picking the Right Extinguisher

Extinguishers labeled A are designed for ordinary combustible fires. Meanwhile, B extinguishers are meant for flammable liquid fires, and C extinguishers are for use on electrical fires. You should look for an extinguisher labeled A:B:C, which means it can fight all three types of fires.
Extinguishers also have numbers next to the A and B designations. The higher these numbers, the more effective the extinguishers are.
Stove-top extinguishers can go on the hood of your range. Two-pound extinguishers are ideal for the car, and five-pound ones work best in the laundry room or kitchen. A 10-pound fire extinguisher is designed for areas such as a workshop or garage where a fire may not be noticed right away.
Make sure that all of your extinguishers are placed in easily accessible locations. They should also be close to the exit of the room so you can leave quickly if the home fire gets too intense.

Using and Maintaining Your Extinguisher
Of course, having an extinguisher is pointless if you don’t know how to use it. There is a simple acronym you can remember:

• Pull the safety pin
• Aim toward the flame
• Squeeze and hold the trigger
• Sweep near the flames
  
  

After you use your extinguisher, you should refill or replace it immediately so it is ready for any future emergencies. Keep in mind that an extinguisher can also lose pressure on its own over time. You should thus check the pressure gauges regularly.
Putting the right fire extinguisher on each floor of your home can keep your house safe. However, extinguishers alone aren’t enough. You should also create a fire preparedness plan and go over the various escape routes in your home. You may also want to have the contact information for a fire restoration company in Nashville, TN, readily available.

An Explanation of the Fire Restoration Process

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Nashville, TN

No two fires are exactly alike. Each fire takes its own path to destruction of a home or part of a home. Nonetheless, the fire restoration process follows a blueprint that is similar in many circumstance. The first thing to take place is often the arrival of firefighters. They work diligently to put the fire out and to save as much of your home in Nashville, TN, as possible. Once the fire is out, this is the time to bring in a professional fire remediation team. For many reasons, speed is of the essence, so the workers arrive to your home within hours of being called.

The Steps for a Successful Fire Cleanup

One of the first things the crew will look at is the security of the home. Is it open to additional damage from the elements? Is it vulnerable to vandals and thieves coming into the home? If the answer is yes, the crew will either put a tarp over the roof or board up exposed areas of the home. The rest of the fire restoration process follows this outline:

• Shoring up structural weaknesses
• Cleaning up any water damage
• Washing away any soot damage
• Engaging in practices to remove smoke damage
• Repairing structural damage

Trained technicians will use a variety of techniques as well as sophisticated equipment to restore your home. They will also keep an eye open for future problems such as mold growth.

The Value of Damage Cleaning
Professionals will use all means at their disposal to clean items affected by the fire. This may necessitate the need for dry cleaning, immersion cleaning, wet cleaning and other methods to get out soot and smoke odors that tend to be stubborn. In some cases, the materials might not be restorable so they will need to be replaced. That is part of dealing with a home fire. A quality fire restoration returns your home to you the way it was before the fire.

How To Clean Up After a Fire

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Nashboro Village, TN

Take Cleanup One Step At A Time

Having a business fire is devastating and both physically and mentally exhausting. Although you may know what to do when your business is actively ablaze, you might be at a loss after the fire. There are many factors involved when you are dealing with things like smoke and water cleanup. To get your business back in shape, you need to know how to clean up after a fire. 

Wait Until the Fire Department Says It's Safe
As hard as it is, you should wait to begin your fire cleanup. The fire department might have:

• Punched holes in walls, ceilings, floors
• Broken windows
• Soaked the roof, floor, and electrical appliances
• Broken furniture or doors
  

All of these actions can cause hazards and may not be safe. You may also want to wait until an inspector or insurance adjuster comes. If the damage is too great, consider a fire damage restoration company in Nashville, TN.

Start With Smoke Damage
Tackle smoke cleanup before working on water cleanup because you will be putting more water onto things like floors and walls. Start by spraying down the house's exterior if it was damaged in the fire, cleaning gutters, and deciding what needs to be rebuilt and what holes need to be fixed.
You can clean walls and other surfaces with trisodium phosphate. TSP reduces the smell and binds to ash particles on hard surfaces without damaging them further.

Move to Water Damage
Water cleanup is more involved than smoke. Throw away any electronics, furniture, or badly damaged items. Consider hiring a professional for drywall or ceilings, particularly if you need to replace them. Wash all clothing and bring undamaged shoes, leather, and other items outside to dry.
You do not have to be overwhelmed by fire cleanup. Just remember to take it one step at a time, and don't be afraid to call in professionals when necessary.