How To Clean Up Fire Extinguisher Powder

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO performed fire extinguisher powder clean up in a local apartment building, making it "Like it never even happened."

An after-fire cleanup can be a large undertaking. Soot and smoke damage may cover walls, smoke odors may linger, and there may be fire extinguisher residue from putting out the fire by yourself. Portable fire extinguishers are incredibly vital in stopping the spread of a fire in it's tracks, but cleaning up after using one can be a challenge if you don't know the proper steps!

There are a few different types of fire extinguishers, but here we will focus on the most common type: Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers.

How Do They Work?

These kinds of fire extinguishers work by interrupting the chemical reaction of the fire triangle. The fire triangle is the relationship between oxygen, heat, and fuel that produce a fire. This type of extinguisher interrupts the triangle by using a multipurpose dry chemical that creates a barrier between oxygen and the fuel element of the fire, effectively putting it out.

The chemicals most often used in these kinds of extinguishers are monoammonium phosphate and sodium or potassium bicarbonate. This is mentioned as these chemicals are corrosive to metals and can lead to damage when not cleaned up quickly (Koorsen).

Be sure that you are using the correct class of Fire Extinguisher to put out your fire. Explore the different classes and which one you should use here.

Tips to Cleaning Up Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher Powder

1. Wear protective equipment before cleaning. Fire extinguisher residue is usually non-toxic, but regardless, the powder may cause skin or eye irritation. It's best to wear gloves, a mask, and safety glasses to avoid inhaling particles or getting them in your eyes.
2. If possible, shut down the ventilation system in the affected area. This helps to not re-disturb the powder that has settles on to floors, walls or furniture, and makes it easier to clean up.
3. Sweep or vacuum up any settled residue. If any residue is stuck or left behind, make a solution of 50% isopropyl alcohol and 50% water, and spray it on to the affected area. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, wipe it with a wet cloth, and then vacuum again.
4. Properly dispose of the fire extinguisher powder. You should put all residue from the vacuum cleaner or dustpan in to a sealed bag and dispose of it normally in a trash can. This step will help to contain the mess and be sure not to spread the residue around the building.
5. Clean the affected areas of leftover residue with warm, soapy water and a damp cloth or sponge. This is important to make sure that any leftover residue doesn't damage any surfaces or furniture over time. Be sure to wash any curtains or other upholstered items as well.
6. If the fire extinguisher was used in a kitchen or food area, be extra cautious with cleaning. It's highly important to be sure all the residues are gone from cooking or eating utensils, and are not on fresh foods or produce.

Once you have cleaned up from discharging your fire extinguisher - Congratulations! You've successfully put out a small house fire and avoided the need for extensive fire damage restoration. But - there is one more tip that is just as important as the rest:

Be sure to recharge or purchase a new fire extinguisher once you use yours!

You don't want to be caught without a fire extinguisher if there is a fire again in your home or business.

Need Fire Cleanup? Call SERVPRO - 908-788-8770

SERVPRO of Greater Hunterdon County is a 24/7 damage restoration company specializing in fire damage, water damage, mold remediation, and cleaning services. We're here to make any disaster "Like it never even happened."