Tips for Fire and Smoke Damage Cleanup
The adverse effects of a house fire are many and one of them is the daunting task of cleaning up your place after fire and smoke damage. The best option in this situation is to hire a professional cleanup and restoration service. However, if you think you can manage the cleanup on your own, then it is better to follow certain guidelines that will help you in accomplishing this difficult task safely and successfully.
Getting Ready
The smoke residues left after the fire is extinguished may contain several toxic chemicals. These dangerous and harmful chemicals can lead to severe health problems such as skin infection and respiratory diseases. Therefore, if you are going to clean up the affected place, then you should at least wear protective clothing, goggles, gloves, safety shoes and a dust mask. This will safeguard you against the harmful effects of smoke and help in keeping the odor off of your body.
Proper Ventilation
Making provisions for adequate and appropriate ventilation should be your priority when it comes to cleaning up fire and smoke damage. The high probability of toxic elements in the air, and the odor requires you properly ventilate the affected place in order to disperse the dangerous fumes. Start with opening all the windows and doors of your home. This will help in the circulation of fresh air through your home.
The will and ducts of your air conditioning and heating system will most likely contain sooth or smoke residue and therefore, are needed to be switched on to blow the debris out. You should also replace the filters of these systems as they will be clogged-up with the debris.
Cleaning Equipment and Supplies
Choosing the type and quantity of cleaning supplies you will need depends on the extent of damage caused by fire and smoke. You may select gentle cleaners if the damage is minimal or opt for abrasive ones for extensive damages.
Trisodium Phosphate (TSP), a chemical widely applied for cleaning exterior surfaces, is considered one of the most effective cleansers for fire and smoke damage. Wear proper clothing and protective gear before using this chemical, as it can cause skin burns, abrasions and irritation in the eyes. Ensure that all the things such as bleach, buckets, sponges, rags and warm water are all set before starting the actual cleaning process. Read the usage instructions listed on the bottle of TSP and mix the desired amount of the chemical with appropriate quantity of warm water or bleach. Use the scouring sponge and scrub a small portion of affected surface. Once the portion is scrubbed, immediately rinse it using a rag and water. If left on the surface for a longer duration of time, TSP can damage it or cause discoloration. Repeat the process to clean all the surfaces.
Hire a Professional
Fire and smoke can damage any part of your home, even the ones that are hard to reach for you, making the cleanup task more challenging than anticipated. All the areas, materials, surfaces and household items of your home must be cleaned thoroughly, even if they appear undamaged or don’t look soiled. Therefore, it is highly suggested that you should call up a professional to get this demanding task done properly and safely.
