4 Tips for Dealing with Smoke Damage in Colorado Springs

Wear Proper Gear

You should never walk into a place that’s been damaged by smoke or fire without being properly prepared. Even when the location is given the all-clear for you to enter, there could be fumes and dangerous breathing environments within the space.

In most cases, you will want to be safe about how you enter and protect yourself in the process. Consider wearing something like a face mask, safety goggles, and gloves when you go in. Depending on the extent of the damage and what was inside, you might also need a respirator to protect your lungs.

Start Airing Out

One of the first things that you can do when you enter to start cleaning up is to help things air out. The sooner you can open up some doors and windows, the better it will be. It’s still going to take some hard work, but fresh air will go a long way to protecting your property.

Open up windows and some doors if possible. Grab some fans and start circulating fresh air. This will do a lot to help reduce and eliminate smoke that may still be in the air.

HVAC Systems and Filters

You may not realize it, but it’s quite possible that your HVAC system was affected by the fire. At the very least, you need to change out the filters as they are likely loaded with smoke and possibly soot as well. This will affect any breathing conditions you may have, like asthma.

It’s also probably not a bad idea to use a professional team to check the unit and inspect the systems or ductwork to ensure they are safe to be used. Smoke can penetrate just about everything.

Tackle the Odors

One of the worst side effects of smoke is the odor that it leaves behind. It can be really hard to get rid of smoke odors, which is where a professional might be helpful. However, there are some DIY things you can do to help as well.

Baking soda is used to absorb odors. Try placing a hefty amount of baking soda in bowls throughout the affected space. This can help to absorb some of the smoke odors and improve the overall smell. Some people will lay charcoal out in bowls for similar results.

Many of these work well as a short-term or simple solution, but be aware you may need further help as well.

Professional Smoke Damage Cleanup in Colorado Springs

Finally, you can use a professional company to help mitigate and clean up smoke damage in the Colorado Springs area. Find a company with experience handling this type of process, and they can make sure your damages and your odors are cleaned up correctly.