The hours after a fire are overwhelming, but the decisions you make early have a lasting impact on your recovery. Here is what to prioritize once everyone is safe.
Wait for the all-clear
Never re-enter until the fire department confirms the structure is safe. Smoke residue is toxic and hidden structural damage can be dangerous.
Contact your insurance company
Open a claim as soon as possible. Ask about coverage for Additional Living Expenses (ALE) if you can’t stay in the home, and keep records of everything.
Document the damage
Before anything is moved or cleaned, photograph and video every affected room and item. This documentation is essential for a full, fair claim.
Secure the property
Fire often leaves broken windows and open roofs. Emergency board-up and roof tarping prevent weather damage, theft, and further loss — and are usually covered by your policy.
Call a professional restoration team
Soot is acidic and begins etching surfaces within hours. The faster professional cleaning begins, the more of your home and belongings can be saved. Dry First handles everything from board-up through full reconstruction — call us 24/7.