What is Soot and is it Dangerous?

8/26/2022 (Permalink)

After a house fire is put out, the danger, unfortunately, does not stop there. Soot may spread to your entire home, this not only poses a threat to the structure but to your health as well.

Soot is made up of tiny particles created by incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. Soot contains acids, chemicals, metals, soils, and dust. The acidic properties in the soot can cause additional damage to your home and indoor air quality if not removed immediately.

Soot can enter your body through inhalation, ingestion, or through the skin and eyes. This can cause breathing issues, including asthma, bronchitis, coronary heart disease, and even cancer. To avoid the health risks of soot exposure after a home fire, make sure that all soot-affected areas are properly cleaned and sanitized. SERVPRO of Mason City has specialized training and equipment to remove soot.