Behavior of Smoke

A fire loss is very complex because of the unique behavior of smoke.  It is important to have trained technicians at the loss location.  SERVPRO franchisees know their smoke!

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows through plumbing systems, using holes around pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke will greatly affect the restoration process.

Types of Smoke

The first step at a fire scene is to calm the fears of those affected.  Next, SERVPRO tests the smoke to see which of the following types of fire took place. 

• Wet Smoke - Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary.  Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

• Dry Smoke - Fast burning at high temperatures. 

• Protein - Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes.  Extreme pungent odor.

• Fuel Oil Soot - Furnace puff backs cause fuel oil soot.

• Other Types - Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue are other types.

Pretesting

After the type of smoke is known, pretesting on the property is performed to determine the following:

• What can be restored versus what can be replaced
• The most effective cleaning method
• Conditions to the property before the damage occurred
• The full extent of the loss
• Eliminate needless replacements