Tear gas is a non-lethal form of riot control, dispersed in a gaseous form. This is one of the methods used by police and military officers to disperse rioters and those leading a violent protest, disrupting the peaceful nature of the community. Some of these gases include CR, CS, and CN gases as well as pepper spray. These gases can linger on soft materials including furniture, clothes, bedding, and much more within homes and offices. Hence, the need for a professional tear gas cleanup service St Paul to get rid of tear gas residue in the home.
Effects of Tear Gases
Tear gases, also known as lachrymatory agent, have a wide range of effects which include
- Tearing
- Chest, throat, and sinus pain
- Eye pain
- Uncontrollable coughing or sneezing
- Burning eyes
- Skin irritation
However, most of the symptoms listed above are temporary, there are more life-threatening effects of overexposure to tear gas. These include blindness and in rare cases death.
Ways to Get Rid of Tear Gas
Cleaning your home following a tear gas invasion isn’t an easy task. You are advised not to enter into the affected area without fully protecting yourself. Protective gear to use includes a full-face respirator, HAZMAT suit, and more. This gear will prevent direct skin contact with tear gas residue which could lead to severe skin irritation.
It is therefore important to note that cleaning tear gas residue after leaving it to sit for an extended period will stir up harmful chemical reactions in the air. However, so long as you have all the protection you need, then you should proceed with doing the following.
- Remove all excesses tear gas residue using a vacuum. Keep in mind that ordinary vacuum cleaners cannot do the job but instead redistribute the powder residue into the air. The recommended vacuum cleaner to use is ULPA or HEPA. Do not use accessories such as a brush as this can spread dust back into the air.
- Use a water-based alkaline solution to clean hard surfaces. You can use mops and rags as well. You are advised to dispose of any cleaning equipment after use. The use of brooms, brushes, and scrubbers is not advisable.
- Cleaning carpets and upholstered furniture can be extremely difficult. Hence, it is best to get rid of them during tear gas cleanup and replace them with a new one.
- You need strong cleaning agents to get rid of tear gas residue. Sodium bisulfate and sodium meta-bisulfate can aid in getting rid of the powder. The downside is the mixture possesses an offensive smell and has a high potential to bleach or lighten the color of many surfaces.
- If possible, take all affected items outdoor for proper and effective cleaning. Experts providing tear gas cleanup service St Paul would rather prefer doing it in a well-ventilated area.
- If bad odor persists after cleaning the affected area, get an effective deodorizer to get rid of the smell. Do not use chemicals or cleaning agents you’re unsure of.
If you are facing difficulty in the cleaning process, hire a professional tear gas cleanup service St Paul.