After the fire

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

The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) United States Fire Administration (USFA) has gathered the following information to assist you in this time of need. You will need to take action immediately on some of the suggestions.

Some actions may be needed in the future, while others will be ongoing. This information is intended to give you the assistance needed to help you as you begin rebuilding your life.

SECURING YOURSELF AND THE SITE

Contact your local disaster relief service, such as the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army, to help with your immediate needs, such as:

• Temporary housing

• Food

• Medicine

• Eyeglasses

• Clothing

• Other essential items

Contact your insurance agent/company.

CAUTIONS

Do not enter the damaged site. Fires can rekindle from hidden, smoldering remains.

Normally, the fire department will see that utilities (water, electricity and natural gas) either are safe to use or are disconnected before they leave the site.

Do not attempt to turn on utilities yourself.

Be watchful for structural damage caused by the fire. Roofs and floors may be damaged and subject to collapse.

Food, beverages, and medicine exposed to heat, smoke, soot, and water should not be consumed.

LEAVING YOUR HOME

Contact your local police department to let them know that the site will be unoccupied.

In some cases it may be necessary to board up openings to discourage trespassers.

Beginning immediately, save receipts for any money you spend. These receipts are important in showing the insurance company what money you have spent related to your fire loss, and also for verifying losses claimed on your income tax. If it is safe to do so, try to locate the following items:

• Identification, such as driver’s licenses and Social Security cards

• Insurance information

• Medication information

• Eyeglasses, hearing aids, or other prosthetic devices

• Valuables, such as credit cards, bank books, cash, and jewelry

Many people/entities should be notified of your relocation, including:

• Your insurance agent/company

• Your mortgage company (also inform them of the fire)

• Your family and friends

• Your employer

• Your child’s school

• Your post office

• Any delivery services

• Your fire and police departments

• Your utility companies

Do not throw away any damaged goods until after an inventory is made. All damage is taken into consideration in developing your insurance claim.

If you are considering contracting for inventory or repair services, discuss your plans with your insurance agent/company first.

IF YOU ARE INSURED

Give notice of the loss to the insurance company or the insurer’s agent/company.

Ask the insurance company what to do about the immediate needs of the dwelling, such as covering doors, windows, and other exposed areas, and pumping out water.

Ask your insurance agent/company what actions are required of you. Some policyholders may be required to make an inventory of damaged personal property showing in detail the quantity, description, and how much you paid for the items.

IF YOU ARE NOT INSURED

Your recovery from a fire loss may be based upon your own resources and help from your community. Private organizations that may be sources of aid or information:

• American Red Cross

• Salvation Army

• Religious organizations

• Department of social services

• Civic organizations

• State or municipal emergency services office

• Nonprofit crisis counseling centers