The most recent data regarding fires revealed that an estimated 1.39 million fires occur in the United States and the property damage caused by these was fires was estimated at $23 billion. On average, a fire department responded to a fire somewhere in the United States every 23 seconds. The data also indicated that the leading cause for structure fires is cooking (49%) followed by heating equipment (13%), electrical (9%) and intentionally set (9%).
Contrary to what many may believe, there is more than one type of fire. The most prevalent types of fires are: protein fires, natural substance fires, and petroleum/synthetic fires. Protein fires are most commonly associated with a grease fire or kitchen fire. This type of fire leaves behind a greasy and stick residue that is difficult to clean and the odor is compared to decomposing meat. Natural substance fires are caused by the burning of organic matter such as wood, paper, or cotton. The residue left behind is typically dry and powdery and the odor is commonly compared to a campfire. Petroleum/synthetic fires are caused by the burning of petroleum-based products such as plastics, rubber, or oil. The residue that is left behind is typically oily and sticky making it very difficult to clean. The odor smells like burnt plastic and the soot left behind can potentially be carcinogenic.
Smoke and soot can penetrate paint, carpet, upholstery, and clothes. While carpet can be deep cleaned and clothes can be taken to the dry cleaner, properly restoring walls, structures and objects is a different story. Below are some general cleaning techniques that are used on structural fire projects:
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, a protective mask, long sleeve shirts and pants should be worn.
- Remove contents: Remove contents from the structure. While some contents may have to be discarded, others can be effectively cleaned.
- Ventilate: Open doors and windows to help remove odor.
- Beware of other contaminants: Lead and asbestos can turn a fire restoration project into an environmental restoration job if they become disturbed.
- Hand scrubbing: Fire damage work is one of the most tedious types of repair work. It involves a lot of hand work, such as scrubbing walls and structures with sponges. It also involves using chemicals and specialized equipment, such as media blasting tools in the event of heavy residue.
- Duct Cleaning: Following restoration, a duct cleaning is required as smoke and soot have a tendency to become trapped within a structures HVAC system. If not cleaned this can cause the spread of soot and odors to other areas of the home or business.
- Building materials: Dry cleaning soot sponges are necessary for drywall, plaster, wood, and other materials. These sponges will remove the soot and also prevent it from being lodged deeper into the material.
- Other materials: Sponges, towels, and mops are ideal for cleaning tile, glass, and metal. Since these objects are less porous than drywall, it is ok to use a wet or dampened sponge or cleaning tool.
When it comes to fire restoration, it is important to remember that the process does take time to complete. Depending on the severity, it could take weeks to complete the cleaning process as it requires tedious work to make sure that every nook and cranny is thoroughly cleaned. If the structure is not thoroughly cleaned, the “smoke” odor will remain present. Until next time my friends, be prepared and stay safe.
Reference: “Fire loss in the United States” by Shelby Hall and “The Anatomy of a fire: understanding 3 types of fires & effective cleaning techniques” by Bill Robinson
