Rebuilding after Disaster: Essential Steps for Commercial Fire Cleanup

9/12/2023 (Permalink)

A fire can cause significant damage to a property, leaving behind a trail of destruction. After a fire, the cleanup and restoration process is essential to ensure that the property is safe to occupy and return to normal life. One of the critical considerations during this process is determining what can be salvaged and what should be thrown away. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the items that should be thrown away after a fire.

Food and Beverages

Food and beverages that have been exposed to extreme heat or contamination from smoke and ash should be thrown away. This includes both perishable and non-perishable food items. Even if the packaging appears to be intact, there's a risk of contamination with harmful chemicals and bacteria that can harm your health. It's best to err on the side of caution and dispose of all food items that have been exposed to the fire or smoke.

Medicines and Cosmetics

Medicines and cosmetics can also be affected by heat, smoke, and moisture during a fire. Any medication showing signs of heat or smoke damage should be immediately discarded. The same goes for any cosmetics exposed to high temperatures, smoke, and ash as they may contain harmful chemicals that can result in skin irritation and other health issues.

Soft Furniture and Textiles

Soft furnishings such as couches, mattresses, pillows, and curtains are particularly vulnerable to smoke, ash, and moisture. Even if they appear sound, it's often best to dispose of these items following a fire. Smoke and ash particles can stick to the fabric, and moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can lead to unpleasant smells and health problems in the future.

Electronics and Appliances

Electronic devices and appliances can sustain damage from both the fire itself, as well as the heat and water used to extinguish it. Even if the electronics appear to be functioning normally, they may have sustained internal damage that could cause hazards or cause them to malfunction later. To be safe, it’s best to have an experienced technician check the electronic devices and appliances for damage and determine if it’s repairable or if they should be replaced.

Building Materials

Lastly, some structural and building materials may not be suitable for reuse following a fire. Materials like drywall, insulation, and flooring can absorb smoke and hazardous chemicals, which can lead to long-term health problems. Professionals can evaluate the extent of damage and determine what needs to be thrown away and what can be salvaged.

After a fire, deciding what to keep and what to throw away can be a difficult decision. But, it’s best to prioritize safety and health over sentimental values. It's essential to seek the services of a professional fire damage restoration company who can determine what needs to be discarded and what can be salvaged. Remember, cleaning up after a fire can be a hazardous and complicated task, and you may risk further damages if you attempt to do it on your own. By contacting professionals and trusting their expertise, you may have a safe and effective cleanup process.