Everyone impacted by the Marshall fire and the Middle Fork fire should assume debris and ash contain hazardous materials and take the following precautions:
- Stay indoors or leave the burn area on windy days.
- Keep doors and windows closed.
- For homes with central air, check air filters regularly and replace when visibly soiled.
- Use rugs inside and outside entrances to catch any possible debris on shoes.
- Avoid tracking debris into the house; remove shoes.
- Wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) when cleaning ash – N95 or equivalent mask, latex or nitrile gloves, and eye protection.
- Use a damp mop or cloth to clean away visible dust in the house.
- Do not use harsh chemical cleaners or vinegar as they can react with chemicals in the ash. Soap and water are adequate to clean ash from hard surfaces.
- Soft surfaces and fabrics should be laundered or discarded.
- Use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter system.
- For exterior cleaning, spray with water – do not sweep ash and consider wearing an N95 or equivalent mask or respirator.
If you are looking for a fire and clean-up and remediation company, follow these guidelines:
- Work with your insurance company to identify reputable remediation contractors
- We strongly suggest that you get bids from multiple contractors
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