Fire
IMMEDIATE DOS AND DONT’S AFTER A FIRE
Do
- Immediately turn off heat and air conditioning unit to prevent spreading of soot and odor. If you must use the unit before inspection, filters will need to be changed first.
- Secure all doors and windows to prevent vandalism.
- Empty refrigerator and freezer completely if the electricity is off. Prop doors open for odor control.
- If weather is FREEZING, and you are not inhabiting the home, pour anti-freeze in sinks, toilet bowls, and bathtubs to prevent freezing.
- Remove pets to a clean environment.
Don’t
- Let small children crawl on floors soiled with soot.
- Wipe or attempt to wash walls, ceilings or painted surfaces (smearing will occur).
- Use upholstered furniture until assessed for cleaning.
- Use tvs, stereos, or electrical appliances until cleaned and checked.
- Consume any food products wrapped or contained in plastic or canned items subject to heat from fire.
- Send garments to any ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning process may set odors.
EMERGENCY STEPS FOR A FIRE LOSS
Protect Your Home
- Board- up windows
- Tarp Roof
- Hire security if warranted
Contact Your Insurance Company
Locate Temporary Housing
Your insurance company can refer a service to assist you with your housing needs depending on the length of your stay needed.
- Check into a hotel
- Arrange temporary housing based on needs of family in regards to location, children and pets.
Remove Valuables
- Jewelry
- Firearms
- Money
- Bonds
- Check Book or Credit Cards
Restoration & Dry cleaning
Select 1 Week worth of clothing for urgent cleaning service.
Drycleaners that specialize in restoration work will provide emergency fast service for some of your clothing. The remaining items may take up to 30 days for processing. Don’t forget to pull out the following items for quick turnaround processing.
- Work Clothes
- Church Clothes
- Undergarments
- Socks
- Uniforms
- Shoes & Belts
- Purses
Contact Your Mortgage Company
- Your mortgage company may be listed as a payee along with homeowner on insurance checks for the loss.
For Optional Support
- Contact local outreach programs
- Depending on the loss, you may want to contact your local Red Cross or your church for assistance.
Get Organized
- Get a folder to save all receipts and keep track of all expenses related to the loss.
- Make copies of everything you submit to your insurance carrier.
- Take photos of items you are removing from the property or need to throw away. You may need to provide photo documentation for replacement value.
