Unfortunately, many people are unaware that fire damage exposure can have serious long-term health effects. In fact, the health risks posed by a fire can sometimes be much more dangerous than the fire itself. Below, this fire damage restoration company in Norman, Oklahoma is going to discuss four of the biggest health risks you should be concerned about if you have been exposed to fire damage:
1. Respiratory Issues
The risk of respiratory issues that can result from fire damage should not be underestimated. As any experienced fire damage restoration company in Norman, Oklahoma will tell you, this is one of the most severe and debilitating health consequences of fire damage exposure. Respiratory problems are usually caused by one of two factors: smoke inhalation or soot inhalation. Although they sound similar and are easily confused, soot inhalation is the more dangerous of the two. Soot particles are minuscule and are made up of an impure combination of carbon elements. They can damage your lungs and, in some cases, are even known to be carcinogenic.
2. Vision Irritation
Smoke has a negative effect on your vision. It only takes a small amount of smoke exposure to make your eyes red, dry, and irritated. The problem with smoke damage is that it is not always evident to the naked eye, and you could be exposed to it without even realizing it. To protect your eyes from the smoke, you may need to put on eye protection for a while. If your eye issues persist, make an appointment with an eye doctor immediately to prevent the problem from escalating.
3. Skin Problems
Fire damage is also not kind to your skin. Excessive inflammation and dryness are the most common effects of fire damage on the skin. Skin lotions and moisturizers can provide relief in most cases. However, if they do not work, you might need to try an over-the-counter cream or ointment for dry, itchy skin. Do not forget to check for any residual smoke in your home after the fire. Smoke lingering in your home or on your clothes may exacerbate your skin problems.
4. Cancer
Prolonged exposure to smoke and/or soot has been linked to cancer development in some people. To prevent this, you should take all precautions necessary to limit your smoke exposure. Trying to avoid going back inside the house or wearing respiratory protection whenever you do may seem inconvenient, but it is well worth the extra effort. To eliminate the risk, you should consider partnering with a reputable fire damage restoration company in Norman, Oklahoma.
As you can see, the consequences of being exposed to fire damage range from mild to extremely severe. Regardless of the potential health risks in your case, call Norman fire damage restoration experts as soon as possible after a fire to get the damage restored and stay safe in the process.
Looking for the Top-Rated Fire Damage Restoration Company in Norman, Oklahoma?
As you now know, fire damage exposure can lead to a wide range of health complications. With that said, if you are dealing with the aftermath of a fire at your home or business, it’s strongly recommended that you evacuate the area and leave the restoration work up to the professionals.
Are you looking for the top-rated fire damage restoration company in Norman, Oklahoma? If so, Mr. Restore is the company to call. The restoration experts at Mr. Restore are here to help home and business owners throughout the Norman area whenever fire damage strikes. Contact us today to schedule a free assessment.
