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What to do after a fire
When You Have Fire Damage
Once the fire has been extinguished and you've had an opportunity to survey the damage, you may notice damage not caused directly by the fire. For example, there may be a hole cut into the roof, windows that have been broken out or holes cut into walls. When you see these things you will probably wonder why they occurred.
Fires produce temperatures that can reach over 1200 degrees at ceiling height. They also produce heat and smoke including toxic gases. If a fire is allowed to burn uncontrolled it also spreads upward and outward. Holes are cut into the roof and in some cases windows are broken to aid in ventilating the structure. The objective is to begin ventilation efforts as quickly and effectively as possible to allow the trapped heat and smoke to escape. This tactic helps slow down the fire spread and improves visibility for fire fighters working in the environment.
All of these tactics are carried out with the overall goals of safety for citizens and fire personnel and complete fire extinguishment while allowing the minimum property damage possible.
Insured/Uninsured Property
If Your Property Is Insured
The first thing to do after a fire has occurred is contact your insurance company or agent as soon as possible. If you are renting the property, you should also contact the property owner or your landlord. Your insurance adjustor may be able to assist with immediate repairs or help with securing the property. If you have difficulty contacting your insurance agent or company and need professional assistance with securing your property you may contact us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (303) 933-4888.
You should also be sure to collect and retain all receipts for any funds expended that are directly related to your fire loss. The receipts provide documentation for your insurance company and verify losses that you may be able to claim on your Federal tax return.
In addition, do not dispose of any damaged goods or property until items have been inventoried. All damages are considered when determinations are made regarding your insurance claim.
Do not contract for estimating, inventory or repair services without first consulting with your insurance agent or adjuster.
If Your Property Is Not Insured
If your property is not insured or if your insurance will not completely cover your loss, contact your family attorney or the Internal Revenue Service for guidance since you may be eligible for casualty loss. Check Publication 547, Tax Information on Disasters, Casualty Losses and Thefts. This information is available from your local Internal Revenue Service office, or by clicking on the highlighted text.
If you are not insured and need assistance the American Red Cross is available to assist families who have been displaced from their homes. They are available around the clock every day of the year with food, clothing and housing.
Temporary Housing
If your home is uninhabitable and you cannot stay with family or friends, consult with your insurance company to determine whether or not you have coverage for additional living expenses. The Red Cross may also be able to provide temporary shelter until you can make arrangements for housing.
Valuable Items
If you must leave your home for an extended period there are items that you will want to keep with you. The following list is only a recommendation since the final decision rests with the property owner: important legal documents, insurance information/policy, identification, vital medicines, eyeglasses, hearing aids, valuables, credit cards, checkbooks, cash, jewelry, photos, etc. If you have a safe for storing important documents, let the safe cool before attempting to open. If you own firearms, arrange for a secure location to store them.
Utilities
In many instances the fire department must have utilities shut off as a safety precaution and to prevent further damage to the structure and contents. Utility companies cannot restore utilities until repairs have been completed and the local Building Inspection Department has conducted an inspection and approved the repairs.
Permanent Relocation
If you permanently relocate to another address you should notify utility companies, banks and of course the United States Postal Service. Your local post office can provide you with a kit to use for address change notification to all businesses and organizations for your personal transactions. If you have access to internet service you can notify the postal service of any address change via the internet.
Securing Your Property
The site of the fire should be secured from further damage that might occur due to inclement weather, theft or vandalism. If you are the owner it is your responsibility to see that any holes are covered to guard against damage caused by weather. All outside doors should also be locked or secured. Do not leave the site until it has been secured and your valuables have been removed.
General Information
Emergency Assistance
If you need emergency assistance for food, clothing or lodging, contact the American Red Cross.
Caring for Your Pets
Smoke can damage the lungs of your pet in minutes and sparks can cause painful burns that may be hidden under fur. As soon as possible you should take your pet to your veterinarian for an examination. If you need medical assistance for your pet after normal business hours your personal veterinarian should be able to assist with arrangements for emergency care.
Counseling Support
After a fire you may experience anxious feelings, depression, difficulty concentrating, sadness, anger, fatigue, irrational fears and nightmares. These are common responses to a traumatic event such as a fire in your home. If you or your family members need support contact the American Red Cross or check the Yellow Pages under Counselors. Some employers and health insurance providers offer financial assistance for counseling services.
Cash And Negotiables
If cash or negotiables have been partially consumed by fire, the remaining particles must be handled with extreme care to retain as much of the remnants as possible. Place each remnant in a plastic wrap for salvage and take everything to your local bank for advice regarding replacement.
Safety With Foods, Beverages And Medicines
Any food, beverage or medicine that has been exposed to heat or smoke should not be consumed. The potency of medicines can be altered by exposure to heat so you should check with your doctor before using any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
Food and beverages that are in tightly closed or sealed containers or in airtight refrigerators or freezers may be salvageable. Do not used canned goods when cans are bulging, dented or rusted. If there is any doubt about the quality of the food, dispose of it properly.
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