Recover with Caution

Current Concerns: Safety First
Bright living room with modern inventory
Bright living room with modern inventory

1. Structural Damage

Before entering your property, take a moment to assess the surroundings. The intense heat from the wildfire can weaken structures, making them unstable. Buildings, fences, and other structures might have suffered damage that isn't immediately visible. Approach with caution.

Bright living room with modern inventory
Bright living room with modern inventory

2. Environmental Hazards

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The wildfire has introduced a range of environmental hazards that residents should be aware of:

  • Arsenic: This toxic substance can be found in the ashes and can pose serious health risks if ingested or inhaled.

  • Asbestos: Older buildings that were affected by the fire might have released asbestos fibers. These fibers are harmful when inhaled and can lead to respiratory issues.

  • Lead Paint: Homes built before the 1970s often used lead-based paints. The fire could have released lead particles, which are harmful if ingested or inhaled.

Bright living room with modern inventory
Bright living room with modern inventory

3. Caustic Chemical Residue

The residue left behind after a wildfire contains caustic chemicals. These chemicals can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. It's essential to:

  • Wear protective clothing, including gloves and masks, when handling debris.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • Avoid direct contact with ash and other residues.

  • Ensure proper ventilation if you're cleaning indoors.

Bright living room with modern inventory
Bright living room with modern inventory

4. Water Safety

The public tap water might be contaminated due to the wildfire. Until further notice:

  • Do not drink tap water.

  • Use bottled water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene.

CMI’S IMPACTFUL PROJECTS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND LANCE LUKE'S SERVICE IN PROVIDING AWARENESS DURING THE WILDFIRE

Read the National Building Expert's book, Hazardous Building Materials for free and get to read more about the different hazards during fire and other calamity
Explore our special edition showcasing significant projects in safety, structural repairs, and community resilience. Learn how CMI’s expertise is making a difference in rebuilding and protecting properties like Kealani and Pearl Ridge Gardens and Tower.
Bright living room with modern inventory
Bright living room with modern inventory
Watch Lance Luke's webinar on Hazardous Building Materials and watch the different hazards during and after wildfire.
or watch his websites
Bright living room with modern inventoryBright living room with modern inventory
Bright living room with modern inventoryBright living room with modern inventory
Bright living room with modern inventoryBright living room with modern inventory

ADDRESS

820 W Hind Dr, Honolulu, HI 96821, USA

CONNECT

Phone: (808) 422-2132

Email: lanceluke@hawaiibuildingexpert.com

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