What's the First Step After a Fire?

8/4/2016 (Permalink)

Fires can be understandably overwhelming. Here are the first steps to take after a fire.

• Ask the firefighters or proper authorities on the scene if it is safe to go inside the residence.
• Call your insurance company so they can start a claim and initiate paperwork. If you are a tenant contact your landlord.
• Call loved ones to let them know you are okay and inform anyone who wasn’t home what happened.
• Secure the residence to prevent theft by locking doors and covering windows or holes. If you need help, there are numerous companies that offer these services.
• Get a copy of the fire report by contacting your local fire department.
• If the residence is uninhabitable, contact a friend or relative in the area to see if you can stay with them or the American Red Cross for assistance.
• Notify your employer, friends, family, post office, children’s schools, delivery services such as newspapers, utilities, telecom services and the police all of your current move.
• Consider the cleanup requirements. Is this a small fire or a large project you will have to hire a company for?
• Talk to your insurance company about what your policy covers before having a cleanup and restoration company come on site.
• If counseling is needed, especially for small children, don’t be afraid to seek help.