After the Fire Information

Recovering from a fire can be a physically and mentally draining process.

When fire strikes, lives are suddenly turned around. Often, the hardest part is knowing where to begin and who to contact.

The U.S. Fire Administration has gathered the following information to assist you in this time of need. Action on some of the suggestions will need to be taken immediately. Some actions may be needed in the future while others will be on going. The purpose of this information is to give you the assistance needed to assist you as you begin rebuilding your life.

 After a Fire

 

The following checklist serves as a quick reference and guide for you to follow after a fire strikes.

  1. The fire department will assis t you in contacting the local disaster relief service, such as The Red Cross, if you need temporary housing, food and medicines.
  2. If you are insured, contact your insurance company for detailed instructions on protecting the property, conducting inventory and contacting fire damage restoration companies. If you are not insured, try contacting private organizations for aid and assistance.
  3. Check with the fire department to make sure your residence is safe to enter. Be watchful of any structural damage caused by the fire.
  4. The fire department should see that utilities are either safe to use or are disconnected before they leave the site. DO NOT attempt to reconnect utilities yourself.
  5. Conduct an inventory of damaged property and items. Do not throw away any damaged goods until after an inventory is made.
  6. Try to locate valuable documents and records. Refer to information on contacts and the replacement process inside this brochure.
  7. If you leave your home, contact the local police department to let them know the site will be unoccupied.
  8. Begin saving receipts for any money you spend related to fire loss. The receipts may be needed later by the insurance company and for verifying losses claimed on income tax.
  9. Notify your mortgage company of the fire.
  10. Check with an accountant or the Internal Revenue Service about special benefits for people recovering from fire loss.

    Fire Department Operations

    Common Questions

    Why are windows broken or holes cut in the roof?
    As a fire burns, it moves upward then outward. Breaking the windows and/or cutting holes in the roof (called ventilation) slows the damaging outward movement, helps remove blinding smoke that obscures the actual fire, and enables firefighters to fight the fire more efficiently and safely. The result of this action is less damage to the structure in the long run.
    Why are holes cut in walls?
    This is done so that the fire department is absolutely sure that the fire is completely out, and that there is no fire inside the walls or other hidden places.
    Is it possible to obtain a copy of the fire report?
    A fire report is a public document and is available through fire inspector’s office.