For most of us, a house fire is one of the most frightening scenarios possible. It’s easy to read about fires, but no one can imagine what it is like to be caught in a fire and deal with the consequences.
A smoke detector that goes off is not just a warning that something is wrong, and you must escape immediately; it is also a signal that things are about to change. This is a problem on several levels since the fire causes water damage and smoke. It is painful to see your house burn down because it was built with love and filled with valuable goods that cannot be replaced after a fire.
You may have come to a turning point in your life after a fire, and we’re here to help you navigate it. It can be difficult to know where to start and what to do immediately after your home has caught fire. This blog is about the actions you need to take after fire damage!
1. Take care of your family
Fire can do a lot of harm. It is complete chaos and a situation of panic. You might be neglecting the most crucial things in your stress. This may seem obvious, but it’s easy to get overwhelmed and confused in the heat of the moment, neglecting to complete even the most basic tasks. You need to determine if you were alone or with someone else.
It would help if you waited and then contacted all your loved ones who are not with you. Tell them what happened, as well as the status of any other friends or family members who are with you. You should call a close friend if no family member is available. At the start of the fire repair process, you will need help.
If you are renting out your home, be sure to notify the landlord immediately to make ownership choices and begin the repossession process.
2. Contact your home insurance
Once the condition is stable, you should contact your insurance company and report the damage caused by the fire. Fire damage causes massive property damage and you need to rehabilitate the whole house. You should immediately call your insurance company so that they can begin the claims process immediately.
You should listen to them carefully and tell them all aspects of the fire damage, such as where the fire took place? When did the incident take place? You have to give them all the information and listen to the other instructions given by them. List all of the documents you need to submit for the claims process.
The insurance company will also send an expert who will analyze the damage that occurred on the spot, and who will ensure the amount of the claim that you will receive. If you go with a professional catering company, it is much better for you as they partner with top insurance companies, reducing the effort and time of the process.
3. Check the contents of the house
The extent of the fire determines the extent of the damage. The fire not only destroys the exterior of the structure, but also destroys everything inside. Fire destroys objects that have sentimental or emotional significance.
It is essential to determine which materials can be reused or recovered and which should be discarded. Foods, whether canned or not, should be discarded because they have absorbed the toxic fumes present. If you eat them, they could make you sick.
Throw away any clothing that has been damaged by fire or water and have the rest dry-cleaned or washed before using to avoid allergies.
You should throw away all medicines and cosmetics, as they are no longer suitable for use. It would help if you did not keep anything as it could harm your health. If you are unsure of how to clean it or need help using it, always contact your repair company.
Final words!
While you are going through something that no one wants to go through, this tragedy will cause you financial and emotional damage as it is difficult to see your house burn to ashes, and sometimes it leaves a scar that cannot be healed.
However, the most important thing is that you and your family are safe. Fire damage creates a lot of panic and takes quick action. Always contact the fire department first, followed by a restoration company to get your home back to habitable condition.
You might be interested in: A fire extinguisher? – a safe way to stay safe