Fire Damage Cleanup: Smoke and Soot
Smoke and soot are created by fires; however, what’s the difference? Most people believe that they are the same, but they are, in fact, different. Let’s go back to college chemistry. Smoke is the vapor given off by a fire burning organic materials. Soot is the particles produced by incomplete combustion of organic materials. Think of it this way. Let’s say a children’s plastic play set is being burned. All the chemicals and components of that playset are floating in the air as smoke or soot. Doesn’t sound fun, right? Though they are similar, they are different and can cause a variety of problems. We at RestoreMore in Racine know that, smoke and soot can endanger your health and your home.
Health
Most people believe that burns are what kills people during fires; however, this is not the case. Smoke inhalation is the number one cause of death during fires. The chemicals and vapor that’s in smoke damages the respiratory system. Children and the elderly are much more susceptible to illnesses due to weakened immune systems. Therefore, smoke inhalation can be detrimental to their health due to all the chemicals floating in the air.
In addition to the chemicals from burned items, there are a lot of other chemicals that are bad for your health. For instance, Mesothelioma (a type of cancer), carbon monoxide, hydrogen, ammonia, formaldehyde, carboxylic acids, and the list goes on and on. The chemical reactions that take place during a fire that create toxic smoke and soot are very dangerous for your health.
Many believe that after the fire is put out, the chemical and harmful smoke goes with it. Sadly, this isn’t the case. Smoke and soot can linger in fibers of carpets or furniture, or it can linger on walls and floors. These harmful chemicals don’t just go away with a Clorox wipe. Special restoration has to occur to ensure your safety. If a proper fire restoration process isn’t provided, then future damages can occur.
Home
Smoke and soot can linger throughout all your house for a long period of time unless a restoration process takes place. Despite the harmful chemicals, the odor can remain in furniture, carpets, dry wall, and everywhere else throughout your house. The cleanup process for fire damage consists of sanitation, odor removal, and property repairs. These steps ensure that your home is as good as new. Make sure to call a professional to ensure a proper clean up.
Time is of the essence when dealing with fire damage despite the size. If damage restoration is procrastinated, this opens the doors for mold, bacteria, dirt, and grime to settle in. Have you ever procrastinated washing a dirty t-shirt only for it to be stained and ruined forever? The same thing happens with your home and damage. The longer you wait to handle soot, smoke, and damage more damage can occur and leave your house tainted forever.
Fire Damage Cleanup In Racine
Restore More, located in South East, Wi, will help with all your fire damage needs. A 24/7 hotline is available to help with your fire damage restoration process. Don’t wait and risk the probability of smoke and soot making you sick from the harmful chemicals. Don’t risk the integrity of your home by waiting and just call a professional to help with all fire damage needs.
Frequently Asked Questions