About Smoke Damage

The possibility of fire in your home or business is a nightmare for any person. In addition to the loss of treasured material possessions or, heaven forbid, loss of loved ones, the subsequent fire or smoke damage is also an unfortunate aftermath.

What is smoke damage?

Sometimes, after a building or area fire, smoke damage may not be instantly identifiable. It may not be obvious enough to see with a quick glance, or it may be mistaken for dust. You can tell that you have smoke in your home or business if you continue to smell smoke after the fire is cleared and if your lungs begin having strong reactions against the air you are breathing. Smoke is quite abrasive and will irritate your lungs much more than mere dust.

Also, even if you do not see obvious physical signs of smoke, you may notice that there is considerable black sediment left on your feet if you walk around your home with light colored socks. Soot may not be obvious right away, but will build up quickly and be very dark in color. If the fire has been very large or direct and intense in one area such as a grease fire from a stove, you may see obvious traces of soot on the walls or ceiling.

What do you do if you have smoke damage?

• Use a vacuum (with an attachment) to suck up loose soot particles on surface fabric like upholstered furniture, drapes and carpets.


• Throw away any opened or exposed food containers or packages as it has likely been contaminated.


• If you do not have power or electricity, clean out your freezer and refrigerator to prevent food spoilage. After the refrigerator has been cleaned out, leave the doors propped open. Some recommend placing charcoal (in a bowl or open container) inside to soak up any odor.


• Clean off all surfaces to remove smoke residue or soot and to prevent further damage to some materials. Pay special attention to formica, porcelain and chrome fixtures, and houseplant leaves.


• Change the air filter on your furnace.


• If the outside temperature is conducive, open up your windows and doors to help reduce smoke odor.

Warnings regarding smoke damage:

• Aside from wiping down soot from surface areas, do not attempt to wash any papered or flat painted walls, carpets or upholstery without first consulting a professional cleaner. Incorrect cleaning procedures could exacerbate damage.


• Consult an electrician before using electrical items or appliances that may potentially have been affected by the fire as they could malfunction.


• Also, consult an electrician before using anything powered that is still wet. Short circuiting is a major danger.