Fire Safety & Smoke Damage
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)
Quick Definition
Toxic chemicals like benzene and acrolein from wildfire smoke that cause headaches, nausea, and respiratory issues
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are harmful chemicals released during wildfires that can linger in your home's air and cause immediate health symptoms. Common fire-related VOCs include benzene, acrolein, and formaldehyde.
What You Need to Know
Unlike particles that settle on surfaces, VOCs remain airborne and continue to off-gas from contaminated materials for weeks after smoke exposure. These chemicals can cause headaches, nausea, eye irritation, and breathing problems.
Why It Matters for Your Home
VOCs can penetrate deep into fabrics, carpets, and furniture, slowly releasing toxic vapors into your indoor air. Some VOCs like benzene are known carcinogens, while others like acrolein cause immediate respiratory distress.
How to Test for VOCs
Professional air testing using GC/MS (Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry) analysis can identify and quantify specific VOCs in your home's air. Testing typically involves collecting air samples over 8-24 hours.
When to Get Professional Help
If you experience persistent headaches, nausea, or breathing problems after smoke exposure, VOC testing can identify the source. Professional remediation may include specialized cleaning and air filtration.
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