Fire Protection

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

Call us today at 530-241-2424

There are numerous causes of fires in homes and businesses. Depending on what materials burn, this can produce different types of smoke and soot.

Below is a list of the types of smoke and soot and their characteristics:

Wet Smoke – Caused by burning plastics and synthetic materials; Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary.

Dry Smoke – Caused by burning paper and wood; Fast burning, high temperatures, dry, powdery, non-smeary residues.

Protein – Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Fuel Oil Soot – Furnace Puff Backs. Other Types – Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue.

What to do after a fire:

• Keep hands clean and wear gloves so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas to avoid spreading soot.
• If the electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open to avoid odor from rotting food.
• Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants gently on both sides of leaves.

What NOT to do after a fire:

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting SERVPRO of South Shasta County.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may result in permanent damage.

SERVPRO of South Shasta County at 530-241-2424