4 Things You Should Throw Out After a Fire

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke damage is pervasive, and it can ruin many items in your office, warehouse or store during a fire. If your business in Chuluota, FL, recently had a fire and you're in the midst of the smoke cleaning process, there are many things you can probably save but several you should throw out right away.

Perishable and Non-Perishable Food Items

Any food that came into contact with smoke, soot, flames, heat, or firefighting chemicals should get thrown out. This especially applies to food with open packaging, as smoke and soot can easily contaminate the food inside.

Uniforms and Textiles

It is possible to disinfect textiles and clothing after a fire but not necessarily recommended by most smoke damage cleaning professionals. Soot and smoke that get into fabrics contain chemicals that can hurt the skin upon contact. In addition, those who wear uniforms or other textiles that have been exposed to fire may inhale these chemicals even after the cloth has been subjected to extensive cleaning.

Upholstered Furniture Pieces

If your office or waiting room has upholstered furniture pieces exposed to the fire or soot damage, these items may be structurally unsafe and should get replaced following the fire. The only exception is hardwood furniture, which business owners can often salvage with an oil soap designed for furniture.

Toiletries, Cosmetics, and Medicines

High heat, smoke and the water used by firefighters can have an impact on toiletries, cosmetics, and medicines. Because of the high temperatures likely to be found in a commercial fire, medications may lose their effectiveness and the composition of cosmetics may be compromised. Even if there is no visible damage, it may be best to get rid of them.
It may be difficult financially and logistically for your business to throw away so much inventory and other office items after a fire. At the same time, getting rid of all items with smoke damage will contribute to a faster cleanup process and return to normal business operations.