Fire incidents are one of the worst nightmares one can have. These fatal accidents can have a significant impact on our lives. But the problem doesn’t end with getting the fire under control.
Its after-effects can be more devastating. The toxic fumes, ash, soot, and other residue can have adverse effects on your and your family’s health. In this blog, we have discussed the impact of fire damage on your health.
5 Impacts of Fire Damage on Your Health
1. Breathing Problems
Breathing issues are the most common health hazard of fire damage. Fire causes smoke and soot that contains toxins and other harmful contaminants. This smoke can spread throughout your home through air ducts.
Harmful contaminants, when inhaled, can lead to respiratory issues like trouble breathing, lung problems, and irritation in the throat. Moreover, soot and smoke can also lead to sinus infections and asthma attacks.
2. Skin & Eye Irritation
Another severe health issue that might occur due to toxic fumes released during fire damage is skin & eye irritation. Chemicals released due to the burning of different materials can react with our bodies and cause infections.
Inflammation, redness, dryness, and itching of skin and eyes are the common symptoms. However, this problem can become more intense if not treated in an early stage.
3. Long Term Health Hazards
Sometimes the contaminants caused due to fire might not show immediate symptoms, but they can trigger in the long term. Inhaling toxic smoke or soot can lead to problems like internal organ infection, cancer, heart attack, and stroke.
The elderly and infants are most susceptible to such health hazards. Fumes released during fire damage can badly affect organs like lungs, heart, and kidneys.
4. Food Poisoning
Poisonous smoke and chemicals can contaminate food items in your kitchen and pantry. Moreover, chemicals used by firefighters can also degrade the food. Consumption of such food items can lead to food poisoning.
Consuming such contaminated food items can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and even severe stomach infections. Therefore it is always advisable to throw away the food items damaged during fire accidents.
5. Water Contamination
Along with food, water is also prone to contamination because of the burning of materials like plastic, wood, fabric, and metals. The burnt residue can affect the quality of water. Moreover, the water and foam used for controlling the fire can lead to water damage and cause mold and mildew growth.
Also Read: Facts about Fire and Smoke Damage
Tips to Prevent Severe Health Effects After Fire Damage
- Move your family and pets to a safe place.
- Immediately consult a doctor if you experience symptoms like coughing, breathing issues, skin or eye irritation, etc.
- Don’t enter the damaged property until it is safe to do so.
- Throw away the food items, clothes, and other household items that were fire-damaged.
- Do not try to clean on your own.
- Carry out deep cleaning and disinfection by professionals.
