As soon as the immediate danger of house fire damage has passed, you may still be left with the distressing job of cleaning up any soot that may have settled into your house. You’ll instantly find out that soot is unpleasant and challenging to clean, but you might have yet to consider its threats.
What Is Soot?
Soot is a hazardous pollutant. It comprises microscopic carbon particles that result from the incomplete combustion of organic materials like wood, coal, plastic, etc. Anything set on fire, whether a bush, a house, or even your food being cooked over a gas range or with firewood, will leave behind soot.
Restoration work following a fire can be made more burdensome and risky by smoke and soot, which can mess up your home and valuables. Companies providing damage restoration in New Braunfels 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 a while. Though you may be occupied with making everything appear better, it is vital to think about the unfavorable consequences of soot and take action to counteract them.
Inhaling soot particles, despite how small, damages one’s health. Exposure to soot can cause the following issues:
Skin Issues
Due to its poisonous and carcinogenic qualities, soot can irritate and dry out the skin. Third-degree burns and other skin issues from soot and smoke exposure necessitate prompt emergency medical attention. As an additional precaution, stay clear of wearing anything that is not appropriately cleaned.
Soot toxins can be soaked into the fabric and stay there if it isn’t cleaned correctly, damaging your skin.
Cancer
As a known carcinogen, soot can enhance your chance of developing cancer. The inhalation of soot particles can damage the heart and lungs, intensifying preexisting respiratory disorders like asthma and emphysema in people who are already vulnerable.
Eliminating soot from your property as quickly as possible with the help of a qualified smoke restoration firm is critical to prevent any possible health risks.
Eye Irritation
Tiny though they may be, soot particles can be felt even if they are unseen to the naked eye. Soot particles in the air are irritants that can trigger eye inflammation and itching. Cleaning up soot damage boosts this danger considerably since some soot will be launched into the air.
Secure your eyes if you intend to do soot removal on your own. When you observe swelling in your eyes, it’s best to see a physician.
Should You Remove Soot by Yourself?
No, since soot is infamously tough to eliminate. This is because of their size, lightweight, and tendency to stay with all surfaces. Soot can spread and absorb if not adequately removed, presenting severe risks to your health and wrecking your property. Furthermore, bear in mind that soot is just one of the numerous problems that may occur after a fire.
Mold growth is another essential issue to address. It is due to the residual water after the fire was put out. If not correctly eliminated, it can also pose health dangers. Relying on a restoration and crime scene cleanup company in New Braunfels to clean up soot and mold is the safest option for you and your property.
The Bottom Line
Getting rid of soot can be difficult and time-consuming, so getting started immediately is necessary. Taking no risks is the most effective method to secure yourself from soot’s potential risks. That said, having specialists to deal with all the problems is a must.
