WHAT ARE THE HIDDEN HEALTH HAZARDS OF SMOKE AND SOOT

9/12/2022 (Permalink)

What are The Hidden Health Hazards of Smoke and Soot?

Fires are horrible, however, the effects on your health can be present long after the flames have been extinguished due to the residual damaging soot in your home. After a fire, smoke and soot are left behind and are a reminder of the devastation. Let SERVPRO of Northeast Collin County/Greenville evaluate your situation. (972)548-6044

Residual Smoke and Soot are Dangerous.

If you think the residual smoke and soot are just smelly and unsightly, think again. Health can be adversely affected by exposure. People with weakened immune systems are in more danger, especially the elderly and children. Did you know? The first occupation health act was by the British Parliament when they passed the Chimney Sweepers Act. The adverse health effects of smoke and soot are extensively documented.

During combustion, materials do not burn the same. Materials, within a home, are composed of an array of chemicals when burned produce harmful byproducts some of which may be toxic. Plastics, foams, fabrics, carpets, wood products, synthetic fabrics, wool, and asbestos-containing materials could be present and when burned could result in complicated health hazards making fire restoration a dangerous and challenging task.

Exposure Methods

Skin, eyes, inhalation, and ingestion are all ways you can be exposed to smoke and soot. Harmful airborne particulate can be invisible making it hard to figure out immediately whether you were exposed.  Soot in the bloodstream is a serious matter resulting in respiratory issues, shortness of breath, bronchitis, asthma, stroke, heart attack, cancer, and premature death.

Did you know the smoke from wood shares chemicals found in cigarette smoke?

The Risk can Linger from Smoke and Soot

As mentioned, safety does not automatically return once flames are extinguished. If not addressed quickly and properly, the danger can linger. Adequate safety equipment (respiratory, skin, and eye protection) are vital in the reduction of the exposure risk. Additional dangers lurk, due to firefighting efforts, such as water and mold.  Proper ventilation should be restored as soon as possible to restore indoor air quality. This is best with HEPA filtration and adsorption (activated carbon) to preserve air quality.

Professional tools, knowledge, and expertise are at the heart of thorough and safe fire restoration.

SERVPRO of Northeast Collin County/Greenville is available to help if you have experienced a fire-related incident. No matter the size, let us help in keeping your family safe. (972)548-6044

Also, to learn more about fire restoration [click here]

https://www.SERVPROnortheastcollincountygreenville.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration

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