During a structure fire, toxic gases, acids, VOC’s, and a vast array of other hazardous chemicals are created. These byproducts of incomplete combustion make up the composition of smoke, soot, and particulate matter. Smoke also contains moisture vapor that will condense on cool surfaces as the smoke migrates away from the fire.(1)
One of the most toxic gases found in structure fire environments is Hydrogen Cyanide (HCN). Classified as an asphyxiant or suffocating gas, HCN and its toxic twin Carbon Monoxide are responsible for the vast majority of smoke inhalation deaths in residential fires. HCN is generated when materials containing nitrogen burn or melt and release HCN gas. Some of the most common materials that release HCN in fires include: