After a wildfire, the dangers don’t end when the flames are extinguished. Ash and debris left behind may contain hazardous substances like asbestos, heavy metals, and toxic chemicals that can affect your lungs and skin. Without the right precautions, cleaning up your home could pose serious health risks. Before you begin, it’s important to learn how to safely remove wildfire ash, dispose of hazardous waste, and restore your home while protecting your health.

This guide provides essential steps to protect yourself, prevent exposure to hazardous debris, and safely restore your home after a wildfire.

Protect yourself from toxic ash and debris

Wildfire ash and debris contain PM2.5 – fine particles – that can be easily inhaled or absorbed through the skin, making protective gear a necessity. Before beginning cleanup, wear an N95, KN95, or FFP2 mask and goggles (not safety glasses), heavy-duty gloves, long-sleeved clothing, and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Avoid open-toe footwear, as fire-damaged areas may contain sharp objects.

It’s also critical to minimize airborne ash exposure. Avoid using leaf blowers or regular household vacuums, as they can stir up hazardous particles. Instead, lightly mist surfaces with water before sweeping to keep dust down.

It's also important to regularly monitor your home's air quality after cleanup using an air quality app, as fine particles from the wildfire can linger in the air, even after visible debris is cleared. Consider running an air purifier with HyperHEPA filtration indoors to help remove any lingering particles from the air.

Safely removing ash and soot

Wildfire ash and debris can contain toxic substances, including asbestos, heavy metals, and carcinogenic chemicals. Ash can settle both indoors and outdoors, requiring careful cleaning techniques to prevent exposure (1).

Outdoor cleanup

Removing ash from outdoor spaces requires a gentle approach to avoid dispersing fine particles into the air. Lightly mist driveways, patios, and other surfaces with water before sweeping to help contain the ash. If shoveling larger debris, work carefully to prevent spreading contaminants.

When disposing of ash, seal it in plastic bags before placing it in the trash to prevent it from becoming airborne. Do not mix ash with compost or use it in gardens—wildfire ash may contain heavy metals and other toxins that could contaminate soil and water. 

Note: Before disposing of ash, check with your local waste management authority for proper disposal guidelines. Some areas require wildfire ash to be handled as hazardous waste and disposed of at designated facilities.

Indoor cleanup

Ash and soot can settle deep into carpets, furniture, and HVAC systems. To remove it safely, wipe down all hard surfaces with a damp cloth or mop. Use a non-toxic cleaner for walls, floors, and countertops. Avoid dry dusting or sweeping indoors, as this can send fine particles back into the air.

Soft furnishings, bedding, and clothes should be washed separately in cold water to prevent contamination. Do not shake out ash-covered fabrics indoors. If your home’s ventilation system was running during the fire, check air filters and ducts for soot buildup, and replace air filters as needed.

Handling fire-damaged structures and hazardous debris

If your home or property has sustained fire damage, structural integrity could be compromised. Before entering a fire-damaged building, it’s a very good idea to have an inspector or structural engineer assess its safety. Fires can weaken floors, walls, and ceilings, increasing the risk of collapse.

Burned materials, such as insulation, treated wood, and plastics can release harmful chemicals when disturbed. If your cleanup involves fire-damaged buildings or debris, it may be best to hire professionals who specialize in hazardous material cleanup.

Safe water and food after a wildfire

After a wildfire, drinking water and food supplies may be contaminated by ash, chemicals, and smoke residues. Following proper safety measures will help prevent exposure to toxins and reduce the risk of illness.

Is your water safe to drink?

Wildfires can compromise water quality, contaminating supply lines with chemicals like benzene and other volatile organic compounds. If local authorities have issued a “Do Not Drink” Notice, follow these guidelines:

• Do not drink, cook with, or brush your teeth with tap water.
• Do not boil contaminated water, as some chemicals can become airborne when heated.
• Use bottled water for drinking, food preparation, and hygiene until officials confirm the tap water is safe.

Preventing food contamination after a wildfire

Wildfire smoke and ash can contaminate food, making it unsafe to eat. If a power outage lasted more than four hours, discard perishable items like meat, dairy, and eggs. Do not re-freeze thawed food, as it may already be unsafe to consume.

Throw away any food that was exposed to ash or soot. Sealed cans and jars may be safe to use, but they should be washed thoroughly before opening to prevent contamination.

Staying safe around displaced wildlife and pests

Wildfires displace wildlife, which can lead to increased sightings of rodents, snakes, and other animals in fire-affected areas. Keep food and garbage in sealed, rodent-proof containers to avoid attracting unwanted wildlife.

Before moving debris, check for signs of animal nests. If you encounter injured or displaced wildlife, do not attempt to handle them—contact local animal rescue services for assistance.

The takeaway

Cleaning up after a wildfire requires caution, preparation, and proper safety measures. Toxic ash, debris, and fire-damaged structures can pose serious health risks, making protective gear, damp cleaning methods, and proper disposal techniques essential.

• Wear protective gear to prevent inhalation and skin contact with ash.
• Use water misting and HEPA-filter vacuums to minimize airborne particles.
• Run an air purifier with HyperHEPA filtration to keep the air clean.
• Properly dispose of ash in sealed bags—do not compost or mix with soil.
• Follow water and food safety guidelines to prevent exposure to contaminants.
• Be mindful of displaced wildlife and avoid disturbing hazardous debris.

Wildfire cleanup doesn’t stop once the visible debris is gone. Even after cleanup, toxic particles can linger in the air for weeks. Investing in proper air filtration and monitoring your indoor air quality can help ensure a truly safe and healthy home. Read our guide on how to restore indoor air quality after a wildfire to take the next step in your recovery.