A house fire is one of the worst-case scenarios. A house fire considerably damages property and risks the safety of everybody involved. For example, smoke and soot will spread and adhere to surfaces and objects, as well as discolor them even after the fire has been extinguished.
Knowing what to do after a fire can keep you safe and limit the damage. Smoke and soot from a fire can be hazardous, and the home may be structurally unstable. After all, unseen damage could make running appliances dangerous.
Read on as we serve this guide to explain what to do and what not to do after a house fire.
A Guide on House Fire Protocol: After the Fire Incident
A house fire can make you feel scared and unsure of what to do. To recover your valuables after a fire, follow these steps:
1. Follow the Pros
The fire department will describe the condition of your home and what to do when the fire has been put out. The damage produced by fire, smoke, and extinguishing water will be assessed first. They will inform you whether or not it is safe to enter and use appliances and utilities. Keep your distance if they tell you to.
Following a fire, the fire department may connect you with a fire damage restoration specialist and other services.
2. Documents Everything for Evidence
Before contacting your insurer, document as much of the damage as possible. Take photographs and videos of the damage and save them for future use. This documentation proves the damage in order to file a legal claim. All harm that can be done without risk should be documented.
3. Get in Touch with Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurer after inspecting the damage. Based on the amount of home damage, the insurance professional will offer advice. They will send an adjuster to your home to assess the damage and determine whether or not it is recoverable. If the house can be saved, they can refer you to a company that fixes fire damage.
4. Sort the Damaged Objects from the Undamaged Items
Separate damaged and undamaged items if you may return home safely. Separating damaged goods will make it easier for restoration specialists to clean them. All damaged property must be documented and photographed for your insurance claim.
Items that were not damaged by the fire may require professional cleaning. Food, beverages, and medications should all be thrown away.
5. Find a Temporary Home
Typically, you cannot live in your home while it is being cleaned and renovated. Stay with relatives or friends, or in a hotel. Following a fire, your insurance may cover food, clothing, and shelter.
Mistakes to Avoid After the Fire Incident
Dwellings can be dangerous after a fire. Such mistakes to avoid after the incident are:
- Coming Home
Do not enter your home after a fire if the fire service deems it unsafe. Only enter your home after a fire if the fire department advises so.
- Using the Power and Utilities
Do not use any electrical or power appliances that have been exposed to fire, smoke, or water. Check the ceiling for moisture before turning on a light. The fire may have damaged the appliances and wiring, making them unsafe to use. Avoid utilizing power or appliances if you are unsure whether an area has been exposed.
After a fire, turn off the gas, electricity, and water. Call the utility companies to report a fire and to have your utilities turned off. It will be communicated when they will be reactivated.
- Using a Damaged Car
Do not move a vehicle that has been damaged by fire or smoke. Smoke and fire may make it dangerous to start.
- Using DIY Cleaning Techniques
Damage caused by smoke and soot needs the use of specific cleaning chemicals and processes. Smoke or soot damage will be exacerbated by insufficient cleaning. As such, call the professionals for this job.
Conclusion
Knowing what to do and what to avoid after a fire will help you recover quickly. To clean up and rebuild your property after a fire, contact a fire damage repair specialist. Protecting yourself and limiting damage will make restoring your property after a fire easier and faster.
Are you in need of fire damage restoration services in Marco Island? DryZone is here to be on your side after a devastating fire accident. Please call us at (239) 360-5207 today!