As of August 14, 2020, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has put Wisconsin in the high fire danger category. The combination of warm temperatures, low humidity and breezy south winds will cause an elevated risk of wildfires from late morning through the afternoon across Wisconsin. Fires are devastating; and when your home is damaged by fire, it can seem near impossible to ever get it fully restored. At TRAC Solutions, we know the risks of fire damage, and we know how to handle it. What most homeowners in Raleigh don’t realize is that there are still a lot of dangers associated with a fire even after the flames have been extinguished. We want to keep you and your family safe from all the hazards associated with fire damage.
Smoke and soot byproducts spread after a fire, engulf all materials they come in contact with, and pose toxic health threats. When a fire occurs, many combustible items will not burn “cleanly.” Items that contain chemicals become extremely dangerous when burned, and release toxins and other harmful byproducts. Some everyday items that will release dangerous byproducts after a fire include:
Because smoke lingers for several weeks following a fire, and thick layers of soot are difficult to remove, and the health risks caused from the burning of regular items, it is important to leave fire damage cleanup and restoration services to the professionals.
The structural integrity of the home is greatly compromised following a fire. You should not attempt to re-enter your home, even if the flames are put out, until it has been deemed safe by a professional inspector. The risk of falling structures, or deteriorating floors is not worth it. Professional fire damage restoration services are trained and experienced in building safety and will be able to perform necessary structural repairs and rebuild to ensure the integrity of your home is restored.
Breathing in smoke is obviously bad for your lungs, but even after the flames have died, the lingering odor can cause additional breathing issues. Porous materials, like drywall, furniture, carpet, and wood are known to hold the most amount of smoke damage. When inhaled, the byproducts of smoke damage can cause:
Without the proper safety equipment and respirators, you should not try to clean up your home following fire damage. Professional fire damage restoration services have adequate breathing equipment to keep themselves safe from toxic fumes.
The byproducts of smoke and soot are extreme skin irritants. When trying to wipe up soot on surfaces, you risk exposing yourself to these irritants. Lingering soot and ash can also still be hot, causing serious burns and injury on contact. Even clothing that was exposed to fire and soot or smoke can cause serious skin irritation. Let professional fire restoration companies handle the cleanup of soot and smoke to make sure that it is safely and completely removed from your home so you do not have to risk skin exposure. Eyes are also extremely sensitive to smoke and soot. Instant watering and redness will occur upon exposure, and even long-term irritation can occur after being in an area with high levels of smoke and soot damage.
The risks and devastation that follow house fires should never be underestimated. By putting your home’s restoration in the hands of the professionals, at TRAC Solutions you save yourself from the dangers that follow a house fire. With the proper training, equipment, protection, and experience, we will be able to guarantee safe fire damage cleanup for your home. Be safe out there, and remember to follow all recommended burn restrictions during this time of increased fire risk in Wisconsin.
