It's Burning

The devastation of a fire in one's home is already traumatic enough to keep one thinking, how
can I protect myself and my family? Fires are preventable although, every once in a while they do
happen. The smoke and soot can travel and penetrate from room to room affecting the paint, carpet,
clothes and everything else you possess and care deeply about. Within the house, cigarette smoke can
damage the home if left unattended. The main thing here is carelessness. Don't leave cigarettes
unattended just like at an airport you don't leave your baggage's unattended do you? Okay I was going a
bit overboard there but you get the picture. Make sure you extinguish those cigarettes before you
sleep. Watch the cooking, keep an eye on that stove. Make sure all appliances are safely unplugged and
all electrical equipment and tools are unplugged. Most importantly watch those kids, I know they get
curious and start playing with the lighters and electrical equipment. Have a talk with them about not
doing that.

Cough…Cough Too Much Smoke

It's not a good idea to inhale smoke. Let me reiterate it’s a terrible idea to inhale smoke.
However, sometimes the smoke caused by a fire is too overwhelming and you have no choice but to
inhale. We all need to breathe, but here is what happens if you do breathe in the smoke. It causes
health problems. The heat first off damages the tissues of the respiratory tract. When the body doesn't
get sufficient amount of oxygen to the tissues you get asphyxiation. The smoke contains carbon
monoxide, which is deadly and gets in the way of your body's ability to carry oxygen. This all sounds
terrible and it is but on the bright side smoke, once it enters into the body it cools down rather quickly.
The full effects of the smoke inhalation will only be known several days after the initial exposure.

We Got Work to Do

I'm not going to lie these tasks ahead of you are difficult, frustrating, and emotional and I hate
to be negative but you get the point. First off, relax and get out your radio. Play some relaxing and
soothing music. Then make sure you wear some gloves and a gas mask. Okay, now you're ready to
start. Put fans around your house to blow away the remaining smoke out the windows. Take out all
the food products that may be contaminated by the smoke. Then clean your appliances by disinfecting
them. Check the air conditioning unit and replace air filters because they are most likely going to be
filled with soot. Lastly, you are going to want to repaint the walls. Yes, it is a lot of work but you have
that radio to play whatever you want. You can sing or dance as you clean up the smoke. Don't worry,
no one said it was going to be quick so take your time and do it right.

For information on Smoke Clean Up Visit Best American Builders, Inc.