The Ministry of Health provides instructions to the competent services and to citizens with its circular on “Taking measures to safeguard Public Health in cases of natural disasters such as fires”.

In particular, the necessary protection measures that the population must follow during a fire are recommended, such as:

  • the faithful observance of the instructions of the competent authorities,
  • staying in closed spaces,
  • ensuring thermal comfort inside homes,
  • staying in air-conditioned rooms,
  • the restriction of movement,
  • the reduction of indoor air pollution sources within the home,
  • the use of personal protection measures from smoke,
  • maintaining body temperature and frequent hydration,
  • assistance to people in need of assistance.

Recommendations for the post-fire recovery phase:

  • measures to protect the quality of water for human consumption, in case of damage to the water supply systems,
  • recommendations for the protection of health from smoke and suspended particles,
  • recommendations for food quality assurance,
  • recommendations for the management of asbestos and other hazardous materials during residential remediation.

Cleaning houses after a fire – Recommendations from EODY:

  • Do not under any circumstances allow children to come into contact with ash or play on burnt ground
  • Likewise, keep pets away from the ashes and burnt ground
  • During cleaning, it is recommended to use protective equipment, which will include:
  • Face mask with a very good fit on the nose and mouth. A high respiratory protection mask with a particle retention filter of more than 95% is ideally recommended. People with cardiac or respiratory problems should consult their doctor before using a mask.
  • Protective glasses for eye protection with a very good fit on the nose and face.
  • Gloves
  • Long clothes and closed shoes. Clean your body and clothes very well, with plenty of soap immediately after use.
  • Avoid, as much as possible, the dispersion of ash in the air from the use of common pole brooms.
  • Gently wipe the internal and external surfaces of dust and then use damp cloths for further cleaning. For interior surfaces, it is also recommended to use vacuum cleaners containing HEPA filters.
  • Change and/or clean all heating and air conditioning system filters.
  • Use as little water as possible to avoid further dispersal of the ash on the ground.
  • It is recommended to collect the ash in plastic bags or in suitable containers to avoid its further dispersion.
  • In case of unwellness, seek medical help immediately.