Asbestos during a house fire.

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

The official website for Homeland Security, Ready.gov, states that more people are killed in house fires due to smoke and toxic gases than flames.

Immediately after a house fire, attention turns to rebuilding and recovering what can be salvaged from the damage. Often people are not aware of the unseen dangers that are in the air.

Asbestos is a ubiquitous fire-resistant ingredient used in construction material. This ingredient can be found in drywall, roof adhesives, linoleum, and vinyl flooring and cement sheets. It was often used to insulate wall gaskets, attics, and wiring for being flame-retardant and durable.

If asbestos is left untouched, it is considered "safe," but as products are damaged or wear down over time, toxic asbestos fibers are released into the air. If the airborne fibers are inhaled or swallowed, they become lodged in the body causing damage to cells, inflammation and can lead to a form of cancer called Mesothelioma.

When a house is burning, many chemical substances are released and become toxic. Although asbestos is fire-resistant, when its area is disturbed in any way, it becomes airborne and an immediate safety hazard. It is essential to cover your face when making a hasty exit out of your house and wait for the fire department. Your safety is important to the team members at SERVPRO of South Cabarrus County. We work with the fire departments to board up any homes that have had a fire loss.