During salvage, what should be done with any pictures on the walls?

During salvage operations, preserving property and minimizing damage is a critical focus, especially for items that have sentimental or monetary value, such as pictures. Removing pictures from the walls and placing them with the furniture ensures they are safeguarded from further damage caused by water, smoke, or other environmental factors present in a fire-damaged space. This action not only prioritizes the preservation of the photographs themselves but also allows for better access to assess the condition of the wall behind them.

Keeping pictures in place can increase the risk of their damage from ongoing firefighting efforts or residual conditions post-incident. Covering them with plastic may provide some protective benefits, but it doesn’t eliminate the risk of further damage from the elements present during salvage operations. Burning them is counterproductive and would only contribute to the loss of valuable personal property. Therefore, the practice of removing pictures is the most effective approach during salvage operations to ensure their protection.