Fire suppression creates a water-loss pathway
Hose streams, sprinkler discharge and damaged plumbing can wet multiple rooms and levels. Water can migrate through ceilings, shafts, walls and floor assemblies while fire operations are still underway.
Water is only one condition
Smoke residues, combustion byproducts, electrical hazards, structural damage and fire-department operations can change whether ordinary drying methods are appropriate.
Do not create uncontrolled air movement
Air movers that would be routine on a clean water loss may spread soot or contaminated particulate. Filtration, containment and qualified fire/smoke assessment can need to precede aggressive drying.
Map vertically
Firefighting water frequently follows gravity through penetrations and wall systems. Inspect each lower level and concealed assembly rather than limiting the map to the fire room.
Separate salvage decisions by assembly
Concrete, framing, gypsum, insulation, flooring and cabinetry have different combinations of water absorption, smoke contamination and cleanability.
Verify before reconstruction
Retained assemblies should be evaluated for both moisture and fire/smoke impacts before they are concealed by reconstruction.