The information below is provided to assist you in reducing your losses and help speed your return to a normal lifestyle.
- As quickly as you can, contact your insurance company. Many times they will have directions to aid you in restoring your belongings. Some policies will have food and money supplement policies to help you and your family's immediate needs.
- As soon as the Fire Department allows and any/all inspectors, board up and secure your property. For help of when to execute this step- stay in contact with your insurance adjustor.
- The American Red Cross has guide points if you choose not to use a third party restoration company.
- It is very important to work with your insurance company. Don't believe all the home remedies online; many of them may not work.
- Document replacement can be stressful. If your fire-box failed you will need to work with your government agencies, banks, and companies to restore your documents.
- Getting your property and contents back from even the "smallest of fires" can take months for repairs and replacement! Take a deep breath and be ready for a long process.
- It's okay to cry. You've just experienced a traumatic loss.
There are two questions that are typically asked after a structure fire has occurred. Those questions are below with answers provided.
1. Why was it necessary for firefighters to break the windows and cut holes in the roof?
As a fire burns, it moves upward, then outward, Removing windows and cutting holes in the roof is called "ventilation" in firefighting terms. These actions stop the damaging outward movement of smoke and heat, enabling firefighters to locate potential victims and fights the fire more efficiently resulting in less damage overall. Importantly, ventilation also reduces the risk of serious injury to firefighters.
2. Why did the firefighters put holes in the walls and ceiling?
Cavity access holes are made in the walls and ceilings so firefighters can ensure that there is no “hidden” fire inside joist and stud spaces in the walls, behind partitions, or above ceilings. Attacking a fire is done as fast as possible and often look like the holes were "punched".
3. I can't find my belongings. Where did they go?
During the fire, contents can be pushed around, tossed out of the way, fall, or burn up. The aftermath of a fire can be disorienting but the firefighters are focused on saving lives and putting out the fire. If contents are misplaced or you are unable to find, contact your insurance company.