Wildfire Cleanup Safety: Experts warn homeowners against DIY mistakes

Even after evacuation orders are lifted and the flames have been extinguished, lingering hazards can remain inside homes affected by wildfires.For Southern California homeowners returning to their properties affected by wildfire, restoration professionals say some of the first instincts are opening windows, using household cleaners or beginning cleanup immediately can create additional problems.According to Tarek Nehme, a restoration specialist with ServiceMaster Restore based in Oxnard, homeowners must verify that a property is structurally safe and habitable prior to entry. He advises wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and a respirator, if the residence sustained direct damage.

Even structures that seem undamaged may harbor hazardous materials following a wildfire. According to Nehme, ash poses health risks, and toxic heavy metals can be disturbed depending on the materials consumed by nearby fires.Nehme mentioned that attempting DIY wildfire residue cleaning is among the most frequent mistakes made by homeowners.

First reported by Ladowntownnews.com.