Wildfire Aftermath Safety Tips for Grand Rapids, Michigan

Wildfires and large outdoor fires near Grand Rapids and across West Michigan can leave behind serious health and safety hazards. Even if your home or property in Kent County looks mostly intact, ash, smoke damage, and structural issues can put you and your family at risk.

This guide offers practical, medically accurate safety tips tailored for residents in Grand Rapids, MI and surrounding areas after a wildfire, large structure fire, or grass/field fire.

Common Hazards After a Wildfire or Large Fire

Burned houses, garages, sheds, and other structures can leave behind:

• Sharp or fallen debris (nails, broken glass, twisted metal)
• Smoldering coals and hot spots under ash
• Damaged electrical wiring
• Leaking natural gas or propane (LPG) cylinders
• Weakened walls, roofs, decks, and stairs
• Hazardous ash and dust

In the Grand Rapids area, fires may also affect:

• Older homes with possible asbestos materials
• Barns, pole buildings, and workshops with treated lumber and chemicals
• Rural properties with septic tanks and well or tank water

Before returning to your property, be aware of these dangers and plan to protect your health and safety.

Hazardous Materials You May Encounter

After a wildfire or major fire in West Michigan, hazardous materials can include:

• Ash and dust

  • May contain fine particles that irritate lungs, especially in people with asthma or COPD (common in our cold-weather climate).
  • Can be more dangerous if your home or outbuildings contained asbestos or CCA-treated timber (copper chrome arsenate, often used in older decks and fence posts).

• Asbestos

  • May be present in older Grand Rapids homes (insulation, siding, floor tiles, roofing).
  • Disturbing ash and debris can release asbestos fibers into the air.

• Treated timber ash

  • CCA-treated timber (older playgrounds, decks, landscaping timbers) can leave toxic residues in ash.

• Chemicals and fuels

  • Farm and garden chemicals
  • Cleaning products
  • Paints and solvents
  • Fuel, oil, and gas cylinders (propane tanks, grill tanks)

• Septic systems

  • Septic tanks and drain fields may have been weakened by heat.
  • Do not drive or walk over the septic tank area until it has been checked by a professional.

If you suspect asbestos, chemical contamination, or structural damage, contact a licensed contractor or environmental professional. You can also reach out to the Kent County Health Department or Grand Rapids Public Health for guidance.

Protective Clothing and Equipment

To reduce exposure to ash, dust, and contaminants, wear protective clothing every time you enter a fire-affected property:

• Sturdy, closed-toe footwear (work boots with thick soles)
• Heavy-duty work gloves
• Disposable coveralls or old long-sleeve shirt and long pants
• Eye protection (safety glasses or goggles)
• P2 / N95 / KN95 respirator mask (commonly available at hardware stores and pharmacies in Grand Rapids)

Avoid disturbing ash and dust as much as possible. Walk slowly, and do not sweep or use leaf blowers. Use a light water mist if you must move small amounts of ash.

Removing and Disposing of Protective Gear

When leaving the property:

1. Carefully remove gloves, coveralls, and masks without shaking them.
2. Place disposable items in a heavy-duty garbage bag.
3. Wash reusable clothing separately from other laundry.
4. Wash your hands, face, and any exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water.

Cleaning and Caring for Shoes

Shoes worn in fire-damaged areas can carry ash, soot, and chemicals:

• Clean the soles thoroughly outdoors with water and a brush.
• Wipe down the upper parts of shoes with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
• Let them dry completely before wearing again.
• Do not wear contaminated shoes inside your Grand Rapids home to avoid tracking ash onto carpets and floors.

Food Safety After a Fire

Fires and power outages are common issues during Michigan’s dry and windy seasons. Heat, smoke, and loss of refrigeration can quickly make food unsafe.

Throw Away the Following:

• Any food (perishable or non-perishable) that:
  • Has been in direct contact with heat, smoke, ash, or fire extinguisher chemicals.
  • Shows signs of soot, smoke staining, or fire damage.
• All perishable foods (meat, dairy, leftovers, eggs) that:
  • Were in a refrigerator or freezer without power for more than 4 hours (refrigerator) or if the freezer thawed.
  • Have an unusual odor, color, or texture.
• Canned or packaged foods that:
  • Are bulging, dented, cracked, or have damaged labels.
  • Have been exposed to heavy smoke, heat, or chemicals.

When in doubt, throw it out. Foodborne illness is a serious risk and can be harder to manage in winter when healthcare access may be delayed by weather.

If you have questions about food safety, you can contact:

• Kent County Health Department – Environmental Health Division

Water Safety: Wells, Tanks, and City Water

In the Grand Rapids area, you may use:

• City water (Grand Rapids water system)
• Private wells (common in outlying areas)
• Rainwater tanks or cisterns

Do Not Drink Water If:

• It tastes, looks, or smells unusual.
• Ash, debris, or dead animals are visible in tanks or cisterns.
• Your private well or pump house has been damaged by fire.

If you use an evaporative cooler or air conditioner supplied by tank or well water, do not use it if that water may be contaminated.

Use bottled drinking water for:

• Drinking
• Preparing food
• Brushing teeth
• Mixing baby formula

If you suspect contamination:

• Contact your local water utility (for city water issues).
• For private wells or tanks, consult a licensed well contractor or the Kent County Health Department for testing and treatment advice.

Cleaning Your Home After Smoke and Fire Damage

If your Grand Rapids home has been damaged by fire or smells strongly of smoke from nearby wildfires:

Ventilate the Home

• Open windows and doors when weather permits (watch for cold temperatures and snow in winter months).
• Use fans to increase airflow, if safe and there is no risk of spreading ash.

Cleaning Hard Surfaces

• Wipe down walls, floors, counters, and other hard surfaces with mild soap or detergent and water.
• For persistent smoke and soot:
  • Wear rubber gloves.
  • Mix 4��6 teaspoons of washing powder + 1 cup of household chlorine bleach in 4 liters (about 1 gallon) of water.
  • Wipe surfaces, then rinse with clean water.
• Always follow the safety directions on the bleach container.
• Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners.

Cooking Utensils and Kitchen Items

• Wash pots, pans, dishes, and utensils with hot water and dish detergent.
• Polish metal items with a suitable polishing agent to remove discoloration.

Makeup, Medications, and Personal Items

Inspect your:

• Makeup and cosmetics
• Over-the-counter medicines
• Prescription medications
• Vitamins and supplements

Discard any items that:

• Show signs of soot, smoke staining, or fire extinguisher dust.
• Have been exposed to high heat.

Chemicals from damaged products can be absorbed through the skin or ingested. Ask your Grand Rapids pharmacist or primary care provider if you’re unsure whether a medication is safe to keep.

Soft Furnishings, Mattresses, and Clothing

Furniture, Bedding, and Mattresses

• Air soft furnishings (upholstered furniture, cushions, bedding) outside in sunshine and wind when weather allows.
• Mattresses may sometimes be cleaned by a professional mattress or restoration service.
• It is very difficult to remove smoke odor from feather pillows or foam; these often need to be discarded.

Low levels of ash on household surfaces are unlikely to cause long-term health effects, but people with asthma, allergies, or heart disease may be more sensitive.

Washing Clothing

• Wash affected clothing normally and dry outside in sunshine and wind when possible.
• For persistent smoke stains or odor:
  • Wear gloves.
  • Use the same cleaning mix: 4–6 teaspoons of washing powder + 1 cup of household chlorine bleach in 4 liters of water.
  • Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry well.
• Be aware this mixture will bleach clothes; test on a small area first.
• Clothes left on a clothesline during the fire should be rewashen, as soot and ash may have settled on them.

Rewashing helps protect sensitive skin, especially for:

• Babies and young children
• People with eczema or contact dermatitis

Ladder and Fall Safety

Falls from ladders are a leading cause of serious injury, especially when people are tired or rushing to clean up after a disaster.

• Use only a sturdy, good-condition ladder.
• Place it on firm, level ground.
• Maintain three points of contact (two feet and one hand, or two hands and one foot).
• Do not overreach; move the ladder instead.
• Avoid ladder use if you are exhausted, dizzy, or on medications that affect balance.

If you’re unsure, consider hiring a licensed contractor or restoration company in the Grand Rapids area.

Injured Wildlife and Bats

Wildfires and large fires can injure wildlife in West Michigan, including deer, small mammals, and birds.

• Do not attempt to catch or handle injured wildlife.
• Never attempt to handle a bat due to the risk of exposure to viruses such as rabies.
• Contact local wildlife rehabilitation groups, animal control, or your local humane society for advice and safe rescue options.

In the Grand Rapids area, you can:

• Call your local animal control or Kent County Animal Shelter.
• Check with Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for wildlife guidance.

Taking Care of Your Health and Mental Wellbeing

Recovering from a wildfire or major fire can be physically and emotionally draining—especially when combined with Michigan’s long, dark winters and weather-related stress.

Physical Health

Watch for:

• Breathing problems (wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness)
• Eye, nose, or throat irritation
• Headaches, dizziness, or nausea
• Worsening of asthma, COPD, or heart conditions

If anyone in your household has concerning symptoms, contact:

• Your primary care provider or local clinic (Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, Mercy Health).
• Emergency services (911) for severe breathing trouble, chest pain, or signs of stroke.

Mental Health

Returning to a damaged home or property can be very stressful. You may feel:

• Shock, sadness, or anger
• Trouble sleeping
• Anxiety or panic
• Difficulty concentrating

These reactions are common. Support is available through:

• Your primary care physician (they can refer you to counseling).
• Local mental health providers in Grand Rapids.
• Community support groups and faith-based organizations.

What to Bring If You’ll Be on the Property for a While

If you need to spend extended time at your property after a fire, consider bringing:

• Hat and sun protection (even in winter, sun reflecting off snow can be intense)
• Sunscreen
• Bottled drinking water
• Snacks and perishable food in a cooler with ice
• Extra masks, gloves, and protective clothing
• A fully charged phone and power bank
• Weather-appropriate clothing (layers for Michigan’s changing conditions)

Try to limit your time on-site, especially on days with poor air quality. Check local air quality reports for Grand Rapids when smoke is present.

Local Resources and Where to Get Help in Grand Rapids, MI

For health, safety, and environmental concerns after a wildfire or large fire, contact:

• Kent County Health Department / Grand Rapids Public Health
  For environmental health, water, and food safety advice.

• Your GP / Primary Care Provider
  Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, Mercy Health, and local clinics throughout the metro area.

• Local Fire Department or Fire Marshal
  For structural safety, gas leaks, and re-entry guidance.

• Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)
  For environmental contamination questions.

• Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS)
  For public health and mental health resources.

In emergencies, always call 911.

Key Points for Grand Rapids Residents After a Wildfire or Major Fire

• Protect yourself with proper clothing and a P2/N95 mask when entering damaged areas.
• Avoid disturbing ash and dust, especially if asbestos or treated wood may be present.
• Do not eat food or drink water that may have been exposed to heat, smoke, ash, or power outages.
• Ventilate and clean your home carefully, following bleach safety directions.
• Do not handle injured wildlife or bats; contact local wildlife or animal control professionals.
• Low levels of ash on household surfaces are unlikely to cause serious long-term health effects, but sensitive individuals may react.
• Look after your physical and mental health, and seek medical or counseling support if needed.

By taking these precautions and using local Grand Rapids and Kent County resources, you can reduce health risks and begin a safer recovery after a wildfire or major fire event.