How Do You Clean up Tear Gas and Remove the Residue?

Removing tear gas residue is a complex and daunting task. The scene of a tear gas incident is often plagued by damaged walls, broken windows, stained carpet, and thick, harmful residue. Cleaning up this residue is a labor intensive process requiring the expertise of a professional to do the job correctly.

What is Tear Gas?

The term tear gas can be applied to several irritants, including:

Chlorobenzylidene malononitrile (CS)
Chloroacetophenone (CN)
Dibenzoxazepine (CR)
Oleoresin Capsicum (OC or pepper spray)

According to Medscape, “The sole purpose of irritants, also known as tear gas, riot control agents, and lachrymators, is to produce immediate discomfort and eye closure to render the victim incapable of fighting or resisting.” What many people do not realize is that the irritants in tear gas can linger long after the missile is fired and individuals flee the scene.

Tear gas residue can seep into furniture, carpet, and hardwood floors, and continue to irritate the mucous membranes of anyone residing in or visiting the property long after the incident. Therefore, it is imperative that all tear gas residue is neutralized and the home or property is restored to a safe and healthy condition.

Cleaning up Tear Gas

How do you clean up tear gas? With a mop and bucket? A damp towel? Using vinegar or bleach? The truth is, you should never attempt to clean up tear gas on your own. Why?

Tear gas cleaning requires the knowledge and equipment of trained professionals. A professional cleanup company has access to personal protective equipment (PPE), specialized cleaning agents, and the ability to determine whether or not a scene has been completely restored.
The harmful effects of tear gas residue can persist for months if not properly cleaned. No matter how clean you think a site is, tear gas can penetrate every corner, nook, and cranny, and can even be propelled through the HVAC system. Cleaning the tear gas residue that you can see is only half the battle.

Aftermath uses strict control procedures and state-of-the-art technology to carefully and thoroughly wash affected areas. A nationwide industry leader in biohazard, trauma, and tear gas cleaning, Aftermath is dedicated to maintaining the highest industry standards while providing professional and compassionate services to those we serve. Contact us day or night for more information.

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Sources:

http://www.cainstructor.com/Articles/Capsicum%20revised.pdf
http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/833315-overview
http://www.aftermath.com/contact-24-7-365/

Testimonials

"Exemplary Communication, Care, Attention to detail. This team deployed quickly to a biohazard situation, provided excellent advice and counsel, performed their work with integrity, and were instrumental when helping us with the insurance claim. A+++"

Randy N. - October 11, 2022

"From my initial contact with Jeanine to the final walk through with Jason, Tristan, Marquel and Fritz Aftermath services has been tremendously upfront, kind and compassionate after the death of my sister. During such a difficult time I never would have thought that I would walk away with five new friends. I am forever grateful."

Megan M. - October 10, 2022

"Aftermath Services Manager Christopher and his Assistant Manager Trainee Gabriel took care of my tenants (who was family) apartment swiftly. It was disgusting in there. Will be going back to this company if a situation arises like this in the future. Drive home safe guys and thank you for your hard work."

John I. - October 12, 2022

"I can not thank Cecily and Fernando enough for all the hard work and dedication they exerted to resolve our family crisis. Thank you both very much. You truly care about the families that you serve and it shows. "

Joseph T. - September 19, 2022

"Lacey and her team are amazing. We never experienced anything like this they walked us through process explained everything upfront even cost and went above and beyond. They were professional, compassionate and informative from minute they showed up even on a holiday. Sorry to say this hope I never need their services again but if we did Aftermath will be our 1st call. Thank you so much."

Patti B. - September 12, 2022

"The Pasadena Aftermath team did an outstanding job. Not only are they a remarkable team, they are also exceptional individuals. Over the course of the week that they were here, we got to know and trust them. They handled this unthinkable situation with grace, compassion, and the utmost respect for the victims. Words will never be able to truly capture the appreciation we have for them. When our world felt like it was hit with a tsunami, your team threw us a life preserver and told us that we will be okay again.The world needs more “Kevins”, “Jamies”, and “Hassens”, who will help lift the burden off of strangers who are facing their darkest days."

Ashlyn B. - September 5, 2022

"Sterling and Aurelia did much more than clean the scene. They were patient, kind, and very compassionate. They took good care of the property as if it was there own. Sterling and Aurelia communicated with us every step of the way. Their presence alone did much to contribute to the healing process. On top of all that, they did a fantastic job cleaning the house. To be honest, we hated to see them leave. Our family thank them both to the highest degree!!"

Tim F. - August 22, 2022

How Do You Clean up Tear Gas and Remove the Residue?

What is Tear Gas?

Cleaning up Tear Gas

Testimonials

Related Information

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