What should be done with food in boxes or cans before disposal?

Food in boxes or cans should be documented before disposal to ensure proper assessment and accountability. Documentation is a critical step in the fire and smoke restoration process, as it helps track losses and ensures compliance with industry standards, insurance requirements, and client agreements. This practice also helps maintain a clear record of what items were discarded due to contamination or damage, which can assist in potential claims or in the evaluation of the restoration process.

In contrast, simply discarding items without documentation can lead to misunderstandings regarding the items that were lost and may complicate any claims processes. Storing food for future use may not be safe if the food has been exposed to smoke or contaminants, and giving food away without verifying its safety poses health risks. Thus, documenting food items before disposal is the best practice for ensuring a thorough and responsible approach to restoration following a fire incident.