Once the immediate threat of house fire damage has passed, you may still be left with the unpleasant task of cleaning up any soot that may have settled into your home. You’ll quickly learn that soot is unsightly and difficult to clean, but you might have yet to consider its risks.
What Is Soot?
Soot is a harmful pollutant. It comprises microscopic carbon particles that result from the incomplete combustion of organic substances like wood, coal, plastic, etc. Anything set on fire, whether a bush, a house, or even your food being cooked over a gas stove or with firewood, will leave behind soot.
Restoration efforts following a fire can be made more challenging and risky by smoke and soot, which can harm your property and valuables. Damage restoration services are needed to restore your property after a fire.
The Dangerous Health Effects of Soot
House fires are devastating for everyone concerned, and the cleanup and restoration process can take some time. Though you may be occupied with making everything appear better, it is critical to consider the negative consequences of soot and take action to counteract them.
Inhaling soot particles, no matter how small, is detrimental to one’s health. Exposure to soot can cause the following problems:
Skin Issues
Due to its poisonous and carcinogenic qualities, soot can irritate and dry out the skin. Third-degree burns and other skin problems caused by soot and smoke exposure require prompt emergency medical attention. As an additional precaution, avoid wearing anything that is not properly cleaned.
Soot toxins can be absorbed into the fabric and remain there if it isn’t cleaned correctly, which can harm your skin.
Cancer
As a known carcinogen, soot can increase your risk of developing cancer. The inhalation of soot particles can harm the heart and lungs, exacerbating preexisting respiratory disorders like asthma and emphysema in people who are already vulnerable.
Removing soot from your property as quickly as possible with the help of a qualified fire damage cleanup company is crucial to avoid any potential health risks.
Eye Irritation
Tiny though they may be, soot particles can be felt even if they are invisible to the naked eye. Soot particles in the air are irritants that can cause eye redness and itching. Cleaning up soot damage increases this risk significantly because some soot will be released into the air.
Protect your eyes if you plan on doing some soot removal on your own. When you notice inflammation in your eyes, it’s best to see a doctor.
Should You Remove Soot by Yourself?
No, since soot is notoriously difficult to remove. This is because of their tiny size, their lightweight, and their tendency to stick to all surfaces. If not adequately removed, soot can spread and absorb, posing severe risks to your health and ruining your property. Moreover, keep in mind that soot is just one of many problems that may arise after a fire.
Mold growth is another crucial issue to address. It is due to the residual water after the fire was put out. If not correctly removed, it can also pose health risks. Relying on a restoration mold cleanup company to clear up soot and mold is the safest option for you and your property.
The Bottom Line
Eliminating soot can be difficult and time-consuming, so getting started as soon as possible is essential. Taking no risks is the most effective approach to protect yourself from soot’s potential dangers. That said, having professionals to handle all the damages is a must.
