The kitchen is one of the most used parts of the house. But it’s also one of the most dangerous. The use of fire, water, and electronics in close proximity to each other can lead to accidents such as a kitchen fire. Also, cleaning products like bleach, Windex, drain cleaner or similar liquids can be flammable and can create noxious gases in the event of a fire. If your kitchen has been damaged by fire and smoke, it is likely that your kitchen utensils, fixtures, counters, cabinets, walls, and even ceilings are covered in soot. Soot stains can be very difficult to remove and if cleaned incorrectly, it can spread all over, causing permanent stains.

If your kitchen has suffered fire and smoke damage, there are a few steps you can take towards restoration and repair.

1. GATHER THE RIGHT PROTECTIVE GEAR

To avoid health risks like sinus problems, new-onset asthma, lung problems, and cancer, you should use proper safety attire before going into your fire and smoke-damaged kitchen. You’ll need goggles and a breathing mask to protect your eyes and lungs from the smoke. You’ll also need a body suit to prevent the smoke from getting into your clothing. Depending on the severity of the fire and whether you need the fire department to put out the fire with water, you’ll need waterproof boots. Industrial-strength cleaning gloves will come in handy for cleaning soot with strong chemicals.

2. VENTILATE THE AREA

Help clear the air of excess smoke by turning on exhaust fans and opening doors and windows. You also want to ensure that your AC is switched off to prevent it from circulating contaminated air into your ductwork and all over the house. If your AC was on during the fire, it’s important to have your filters replaced as soon as possible.

3. CHECK FOR BREACHES

Sometimes, when a fire is really severe, it can cause a breach in the structure of your home. A breach is an area where a section of roof or wall is missing. If your kitchen has a breach, it’s crucial to get it sealed immediately. If not, rain and humidity can cause mold, rot, and damage to sensitive property such as kitchen appliances.

4. REMOVE LEFTOVER WATER

If fireman put out your kitchen fire and used large amounts of water, there’s a good chance that some of that water was left behind in your kitchen. If water is not removed in a timely manner, it could result in microbial growth. You can use a water pump to remove the majority of the water. If water has gotten into your carpet, you may need a press extractor to suck out water that has been absorbed by the material.

5. REMOVE THE SOOT

Soot is the black substance left by a fire. It often has an oily base because of plastics that have burned, making it difficult to clean. You need a strong cleaning agent like trisodium phosphate cleaner to thoroughly remove the soot from the walls, cabinets, shelves, and hardware. Check the rubber gaskets of appliance doors for damage and make sure to clean the condenser coils of your fridge. Throw away any food that was exposed to soot. Unfortunately, some items in your kitchen won’t be salvageable, especially if they were badly burned. For expensive items you may need to discard, include them in your claim to your insurance company.

6. REMOVE THE SMOKE ODOR

Smoke odors may linger in your kitchen and spread to your entire home. To remove smoke odor, wipe down all surfaces and vacuum your rugs and carpets. Sprinkling baking soda onto your carpets before vacuuming can help draw out the remaining odor.

If your home has experienced damage from smoke and fire, it’s best to enlist the help of professionals for proper repair and restoration. EC Construction can help you renovate and reconstruct your damaged home. Contact us today to learn more.