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Wildfires don't just leave behind charred landscapes—they can also leave invisible hazards inside homes that survived the flames. In a recent piece for The Conversation, CU СÀ¶ÊÓƵ geography professor Colleen E. Reid highlights the hidden dangers of wildfire smoke that infiltrates homes, bringing toxic chemicals that can for months.

Drawing from research conducted after the 2021 Marshall Fire in СÀ¶ÊÓƵ County, Reid and her team found elevated levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and metals in the ash and air inside homes that were otherwise untouched by fire. These pollutants, originating from burned human-made materials like plastics and electronics, can embed themselves in furniture, carpets, and walls, continuing to off-gas long after the fire is extinguished.​

Surveys conducted six months post-fire revealed that over half of the residents experienced symptoms such as itchy eyes, headaches, dry coughs, and sore throats—symptoms they attributed to smoke exposure within their homes. Many noted that their homes had a different smell upon return, which could indicate the presence of these pollutants.​

To mitigate these risks, Reid recommends thorough cleaning of all surfaces, replacing HVAC filters, removing contaminated textiles and furniture, and using air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters. She also emphasizes the importance of wearing protective gear, like N95 masks and gloves, during cleanup to prevent further exposure.​

While air quality is routinely measured outdoors, Professor Reid’s research underscores the need for greater awareness of indoor air quality issues particularly following wildfires and the importance of proper remediation efforts to ensure the safety and health of returning residents.​

For more detailed information and tips on cleaning and staying safe, you can read the full article here in the Conversation: