When a fire breaks out in your home, even a relatively small one, it may cause significant asbestos contamination. Airborne asbestos contamination due to a fire can be extremely dangerous.
You need to get professional abatement and cleanup help if a property you own is recovering from a fire.
When Does Asbestos Become Dangerous?
Asbestos poses little threat when left undisturbed. When it becomes airborne, however, asbestos can be breathed in, which can lead to many health issues. HVAC systems also help distribute loose asbestos due to a fire everywhere they are connected to.
You can’t see or smell the asbestos in your air, which makes it so dangerous. Inhaling enough asbestos puts you at real risk for developing mesothelioma lung cancer.
How to Avoid Asbestos Exposure After a Fire
The only way to be sure of the safety of your home after a fire is to have it professionally tested. If asbestos is detected, professional abatement and cleanup should be an absolute priority.
Asbestos particles “hook” into soft goods throughout your home, rendering everything that isn’t a hard surface nearly impossible to rid of cancer-causing particles. In order to ensure your home’s 100% asbestos-free after initial detection, everything in the home, from furniture to clothing, must be inspected then cleaned (hard goods) or disposed of (soft goods).
Illinois Environmental Contractors Association Resources
For more information on finding a local contractor to assist with the asbestos abatement process, check the resources below: