Los Conchas Wildfire in New Mexico Burns 100 Structures and Causes Extensive Smoke Damage

EMSL Analytical offers testing solutions for all types of properties impacted from smoke and soot damage due to fires.

Cinnaminson, NJ

The Las Conchas wildfire in New Mexico has already burnt over 100,000 acres and destroyed more than 100 buildings. Although the wildfire is only 27% contained the threat to nearby Los Alamos appears to be primarily over.

The fire had caused the evacuation of thousands of Los Alamos area residents last week and closed down the Los Alamos National Laboratory and area hospital, the Los Alamos Medical Center. Today those evacuated residents were told they could begin returning to their homes and businesses.

Not only did this enormous fire directly destroy numerous buildings, but many properties not directly touched by flames may have extensive smoke damage. Wildfires can produce an enormous amount of smoke that infiltrates buildings. This smoke is filled with combustion by-products that include soot, ash and char. The smoke can have damaging effects to both property and to humans breathing the smoke filled air.

“Those properties that will require smoke remediation actions and any form of rebuilding may also pose hazards from mold growth if water suppression efforts caused moisture to enter the buildings as well as potential risks from lead based paints and any existing asbestos,” reported Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “EMSL provides analytical services for indoor air quality (IAQ) and remediation specialists working to determine if smoke damage exists and to what concentrations. This is often necessary for property insurance claims. The laboratory also provides testing services to help determine if the properties have mold, lead and asbestos contamination issues,” he continued.

EMSL recently sponsored an online public outreach video on indoor environmental hazards following a fire. It can be seen at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXcXN7lF2G4

To learn more about testing for smoke damage, char, carbon black, soot, indoor air quality (IAQ) or other environmental issues please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Joe Frasca

Senior Vice President, Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

Contact via E-mail