Post fire safety
- Fire Roots
- Jul 17
- 3 min read
When it comes to fire safety, most discussions focus on how to act during a fire, but little is mentioned about what to do after a fire. Following a fire, the environment can still pose serious health and safety risks. Harmful particles called particulate matter, toxic ash, and even contaminated water can remain. Without knowing the proper safety precautions, you may expose yourself to these dangerous materials, leading to long-term health effects such as asthma This blog will describe a few safety precautions to take following a house fire.
The first step in post-fire safety is to assess the extent of contamination. If there are no visible airborne particles, no major cleanup actions may be necessary. However, if you notice visible particles such as ash, it is important to seek professional help. Many specialized companies offer services for debris removal and smoke cleanup. If the fire is part of a larger disaster, then it would also be beneficial to check if you are eligible for assistance from FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency). FEMA is a government agency that can offer financial aid to people following all kinds of natural disasters.
Understanding the type of pollutants in the air following a fire can be crucial in understanding the dangers they pose. Fires release PM (particulate matter), a mix of solid and liquid particles in the air. Examples of particulate matter include dust or smoke, which are large enough to see, while others are extremely small. There are two main categories of PM: PM10 and PM2.5. PM10 includes inhalable particles about 10 micrometers wide, which can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat. Even more concerning is PM2.5, which includes particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, making them extremely small. PM10 and PM2.5 exposure is associated with adverse health effects. This is because these particles can enter your lungs and bloodstream.
To reduce exposure to these particles during cleanup, it is important to wear an N95 mask. N95 masks help to remove 95% of small particles, and also removes dust and smoke. Additionally, wet-cleaning methods are recommended as they help trap particles rather than cause them to be airborne again. Examples of wet-cleaning methods include hosing outdoor areas and wiping surfaces with damp cloths. This is also why it is important to avoid sweeping and vacuuming the particles, as they can cause them to become airborne again. In general, covering up as much as possible can help to avoid skin contact. This can be done by wearing dishwashing gloves, long sleeves, and safety glasses.
Finally, it is important to be cautious of the drinking water, as it can be contaminated by many chemicals. Your water supply can be contaminated by ash and flame retardant, which are used to suppress fires. Additionally, your plastic pipes may release VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the water when heated. Because of this, it would be wise to avoid using tap water until your local water utility determines it to be safe.
While life following a wildfire may feel overwhelming it is important to remember there are many places to find support, such as the aforementioned FEMA. Local health departments and cleanup services are also good places to start. By taking the necessary precautions and reaching out for help, it is possible to begin the process of recovery.
-Written by Anna Zhao
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