Fire Extinguisher Aftermath Safety

3/27/2019 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers play a crucial role in minimizing the impact that a fire can have on your home or business structure. Having one close by is critical to reducing your chances of large loses. An otherwise small fire can easily grow and spread throughout a structure quickly without the presence an extinguisher. In fact, in 75% of the cases where a fire extinguisher was used, a fire department was not required for assistance.

At the same time, the chemical spray from fire extinguishers can be potentially corrosive to materials in your home or office and harmful to your skin and when inhaled. For this reason, once you have successfully put out your fire, it is important to take precautions in cleaning up the sprayed areas. Below is a list of tips to keep you and your family or employees safe until SERVPRO arrives:

• Do not use a broom to clean up the dust, as this can aerosolize fine particles.
• Make sure the area is properly ventilated.
• Wash hands and any skin that comes into contact with the spray.
• Make sure family members and employees are trained in the use of fire extinguishers.

If you have used a fire extinguisher in your home or business, act fast to avoid further damage to your home, business or belongings and call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at 563-386-3540.