CLEANING UP AFTER A BUSHFIRE
After the recent destructive bushfires occurring in our own backyard here in Yeppoon, it is important to be aware of how to take the correct health and safety procedures when cleaning your home and removing the smell of smoke. If returning home after a recent bushfire it is imperative you thoroughly clean your home to reduce the risk of contamination. One of the first steps you will need to take is ventilating your home. Open all doors and windows to increase airflow and allows sunshine to enter the home as it assists in reducing the odor.
Other precautions to take include;
- Wash all hard surfaces (including walls, furniture, and floors)
- Vacuum and mop all floors (dry clean carpets if smell lingers)
- Wipe down walls with a microfiber cloth
- Wash all soft furniture (upholstered furniture)
- Wash all bedding and clothes affected by the smoke
- Clean blinds and curtains
- Clean the outside of the house by washing down with water to remove smoke and fine dust
- Hose down lawns and gardens to remove any soot residue
- Check all food is okay, unless sealed
- Before entering your home ensure you are clean from any form of residue, so it does not get tracked through the house
- Clean all filtered systems, such as air conditioning
- Completely empty and clean any water tanks on the property
- Hose down and thoroughly clean any flyscreen’s
Please note that if you are throwing anything away to ensure it is far from the home to ensure animals do not come near the property. It is also imperative that you practice cleanliness and wash your hands thoroughly when cleaning to reduce risk of contamination. If your home has been severely damaged from the fires, take photos of any damage for insurance purposes before beginning cleaning. If any smells linger contact your insurance company immediately.
For further information
Call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) at any time.
Contact 13 QGOV (13 74 68) for your nearest Public Health Unit.
