Fire damage and its hidden dangers

When wet mould dries, it turns into a powdered consistency (particles) - this is dangerous to breathe in. It can affect those who suffer from respiratory problems significantly more than others but it can even cause these problems to those who are of good health.

Fire damage includes smoke damage, which contains carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide as well as other toxins including acid gases, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Inhalation of these particles and substances can obstruct airways in the lungs and lead to severe irritation.

The longer smoke particles are left increases the chance of it becoming acidic. Therefore, it is advisable to have the property professionally cleaned promptly, as it could result in permanent bad odours and stains.

2. Structural Damage

Fire damage may cause obvious structural damage, including holes in the walls and cracks throughout the property. However, it is what is beneath these obvious damages that become an issue. It can increase the structural integrity of the property, as well as giving weather easy access into the property.

In addition to this, heat can damage different structures and materials such as steel, bricks and joints. If structural elements are damaged, they could fail in the future, making the property a hazard.

3. Pipe Damage

Both gas and water pipes are usually made out of plastic or metal, both of these can be affected severely by fire damage. It can melt these materials as well as their seals, resulting in water leaks or even worse, gas leaks. Water leaks may cause structural damage as well as further fires if it were to come into contact with electrical sources. Gas leaks are extremely dangerous, potentially causing further fires and explosions.

4. Electrical damage

It is really important to check your electrical appliances and wiring before using them, such as fridges and washing machines, even if they look undamaged. The plastic around the wires can melt from the heat, causing damage inside. If there are any faulty wires or damaged parts that could easily cause another fire because of all the soot inside.

Therefore, it's best to get the electrics looked at by an expert first. Moreover, water affects electrics so it’s crucial to make sure which appliances work and which ones don’t work, so they should be professionally checked to help avoid another fire.

At CPL t/a Rainbow International, we are leading fire and smoke damage cleaning specialists, serving London and the South East. With over twenty years of experience in the fire and flood damage industries, we offer high-quality and effective fire damage restoration services.

On call and ready to help 24/7, our customers can rest assured that they are our priority 365 days a year. Our quotes are hassle-free and no obligation, giving each customer ease and convenience every time. Call us now on 0800 030 4360 to talk to one of our experts today.