Items That Need Thrown Away After Fire Damage

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Items To Throw Away After a Fire

Recovering from a home fire is a long, frustrating process. When you face the destruction of the furnishings and cherished items of your West Virginia home, it can be hard to say goodbye to belongings that don't seem to have been affected. However, there are some items that need to be thrown away, even if they don't look like they've been damaged by fire or smoke.

1. Food

You’ll need to toss out anything that was laying on the counter. (Bread, cereal, etc)  Of course, you'll throw away anything in open containers and foods there were stored in cardboard or thin plastic bags. It may surprise you to learn, however, that even your canned foods should be tossed out. This is because the high heat of the fire will activate the growth of bacteria, even when food is sealed in glass jars and cans from the store.

The items in your fridge may be safe, even if the power has gone out, but remember that it's always safer to throw out questionable foods than to suffer through physical sickness. Anything that smells smoky or odd has visible soot, or doesn't feel cold should be tossed.

2. Medicine

The last thing you need after a fire is to be left without the medications that you need. But these items can be affected by fire damage. If there's charring, or signs of soot or warping go ahead and throw it out. It's better to contact your doctor for refills than to become sick or suffer any other side effects.

3. Cosmetics

Inspect your cosmetics that were near high heat for soot, dust, chemicals, and signs of damage. If anything is warped due to the exposure to heat, toss it. Stay on the safe side and simply get rid of all medicine and cosmetic items.

4. Clothes

Some of your clothes might be able to be cleaned and disinfected by a fire restoration company that has the proper tools and knowledge and experience. Anything that is burnt needs to be thrown away. Baby and children's clothing need some extra care and attention as you don’t want to risk your little one’s health.

Always use caution with the above items after a fire. It might be smart to just throw away food, medicine and cosmetics, and some clothes for the sake of your health. Always keep in mind that items exposed to high heat could affect your health if you keep them. If you’re questioning anything after fire damage, feel free to give us a call here at SERVPRO of Wood, Ritchie & Pleasants Counties. We are always happy to help.

304-428-SERV