Worried about smoke deteriorating your health?
Call STOP of Chandler AZ and let our professionals deal with the smoke.
Your house just witnessed a fire, the flames have been put out, and you think you’re out of harm’s way. But you're mistaken; smoke and soot can turn out to be more harmful to you than the flames.
The soot and smoke left in the wake of the fire are more than just reminders of the unfortunate event. These substances pose major health hazards, especially to children, elders, and those with weak immune systems.
What Makes Soot and Smoke Harmful?
When the fire is ravaging through your house, it's burning things made of all kinds of different materials such as fabric, wood, plastics, and asbestos-containing items. These materials burn to give off toxic gases and solids along with the smoke. Some of the things in your house burn only partially. This results in the dark black substance known as soot as well as toxic gases such as carbon monoxide.
Health Hazards
Breathing Problems
A lot of the chemicals given off during the fire can linger in the space for weeks. If you ever walk into a fire-damaged space, what you will observe is that you can still smell the smoke several days after the fire. Some of these chemicals are extremely toxic; inhaling them can result in breathing problems.
The toxic substances can prevent your blood from absorbing oxygen, causing oxygen deficiency to your organs. This can lead to:
- Coughing
- Breathlessness
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Weakening of the respiratory system
Skin Irritation
Soot and smoke are toxic and carcinogenic. Them coming into contact with your skin can cause dryness and irritation. They can also cause conditions such as mild to severe skin burns. This requires immediate medical attention.
Eye Irritation
Suspended smoke and soot particles can irritate your eyes and cause redness. You could feel mild itchy eyes; rubbing them could worsen the condition and may even lead to damaging your cornea. You should seek immediate medical attention.
Life-Threatening Illnesses
Smoke and soot consist of numerous chemicals, some of which are carcinogens. Carcinogens are substances that can potentially cause cancer. There are other substances that can lead to heart attack and stroke.
Toxic Substances That Can Be Found in Soot and Smoke
- Carcinogens such as asbestos fibers.
- Carbon monoxide from partially burnt carbon materials; prevents the absorption of oxygen in the blood.
- Burnt plastics such as PVC can release hydrogen chloride, dioxin, halocarbons, and many other substances. All these substances are toxic.
- The burning of rubber can release hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide, all of which are toxic.
- Even burning wood can give off chemicals, some of which are found in cigarette smoke.
How to Deal with Soot and Smoke?
The best way to deal with soot and smoke is to hire professional services to do the job. These people are equipped with all the necessary gear and knowledge needed to handle these substances. Professional services will rid your home of the smoke, soot, and odors that linger in your home after a fire.
Contact Us!
STOP of Chandler AZ has over 40 years of experience in restoration services. Our team of experts can clear your home of all rubble, smoke, soot, odors, and repair all the damages caused by the fire. When we're finished with the job, your home will be as good as new as well as safe and secure. Call us now!
