The Damage Smoke Can Do

9/4/2021 (Permalink)

The damage a fire can do to your belongings and your home is obvious. A fire has the ability to destroy almost anything in its path. With such destructive power, its other attributes are commonly overlooked. But the truth is, the smoke a fire produces can be very damaging as well. But how can it? It’s just more air, isn’t it? Well, actually there are a number of things that smoke can cause damage to if you’re not careful. The New York State Department of Health has a list of facts about smoke and its damaging effects on both people and their belongings;

• Smoke is a mixture of particles and chemicals produced by the incomplete burning of carbon-containing materials
• Smoke is irritating to the eyes, nose, and throat, and its odor may cause nausea
• Inhaling carbon monoxide, which is present in most smoke, decreases the body's oxygen supply
• Prolonged exposure to smoke can lead to permanent health effects
• Smoke can stain objects exposed to it
• The odor smoke produces can stick to softer surfaces, expelling the air back into the room even after the fire has stopped
• Smoke carries soot and ash further distances than wind, allowing the irritants to travel a greater distance
• Smoke can reside in the ductwork of a building and travel to other areas of the building that were not exposed to the fire

There is no doubt that fire by itself can be deadly and very destructive. Unfortunately, fire also causes smoke that can only add to the destruction. So it’s a good idea to make sure you know the damage smoke can cause and plan for it just as you would a fire. Minimize the damage your home goes through and prepare for fire and smoke.

Source: https://health.ny.gov

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.