When a fire is out, water is often still a threat. Fire hoses, sprinklers, and foam leave building materials soaked. If moisture stays trapped, it weakens structures and fuels mold. Fast, methodical water mitigation limits the loss and speeds recovery. These simple safety steps will guide you through managing water damage after a fire.
Safety and Initial Walkthrough
After a fire, safety comes first. Fire residue and standing water may contain harmful particles. Hazards such as unstable flooring, sagging ceilings, and live electrical circuits can remain. A professional team can help secure utilities, ventilate the space, and create safe access before restoration begins.
Stopping the Source of Water
Once the fire is extinguished, it is important to stop any new water from entering the structure. This includes shutting off broken sprinklers, capped lines, or damaged plumbing. Documenting utility status, like power, water, and gas, helps maintain a safe and organized work environment.
Fast Water Extraction
Standing water should be removed immediately. Crews use pumps, wet vacuums, and other equipment to extract water and release trapped moisture from walls and flooring. Acting quickly prevents water from spreading into drywall, subfloors, and insulation, which reduces overall drying time.
Removing Unsalvageable Materials
Materials that are burned, warped, or heavily saturated need to be removed. This often includes wet insulation, damaged drywall, and flooring that cannot be dried. Removing these materials speeds up drying and reduces the risk of further damage or contamination.
Drying and Dehumidification
Industrial fans and dehumidifiers reduce moisture levels in both the air and building materials. Professionals use moisture meters to measure progress and continue until dry standards are met. This monitoring process ensures the structure is safe for repair and rebuilding.
Cleaning Smoke and Soot
Even after water removal, smoke and soot remain a problem. Soot can corrode metals and stain surfaces, while smoke odor lingers in walls, furniture, and fabrics. Cleaning and deodorization should take place during the drying phase to prevent long-term damage.
Preventing Mold Growth
Mold can begin forming within 24 to 48 hours in damp conditions. Drying materials quickly is the best way to reduce the risk. If drying cannot be completed within this time, mold remediation may be required. This makes early water damage management critical for health and safety.
Checking Hidden Areas
Moisture often spreads into hidden areas such as wall cavities, subfloors, attics, and HVAC systems. These spaces need to be inspected and dried properly. Wet insulation should be replaced, and HVAC systems should be cleaned to prevent the circulation of contaminants.
Documenting the Process
Thorough documentation supports insurance claims and speeds approvals for restoration. Photos, moisture readings, equipment logs, and work authorizations should be kept from the start of the project through completion.
Why Choose Hands & Hammers Restoration Services
Water left after firefighting is often contaminated and requires expert handling. Hands & Hammers, a veteran-owned company based in Lewisville, TX, provides full-service fire and water restoration for the Dallas–Fort Worth area. The IICRC-certified team offers 24/7 emergency response, using industry-standard processes for water extraction, structural drying, soot removal, odor control, and complete reconstruction. With trained, background-checked professionals, Hands & Hammers ensures safe, reliable, and efficient recovery.
Managing water damage after firefighting requires speed, safety, and professional expertise. Hands & Hammers Restoration Services offers 24/7 emergency service to help property owners in the DFW area recover quickly and safely. Contact us today for more details.
