Contact your local disaster
relief service, such as the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army, to help
with your immediate needs, such as:
Do not enter the damaged site.
Fires can rekindle from hidden, smoldering remains.
Normally, the fire department
will see that utilities (water, electricity and natural gas) are either safe to
use or are disconnected before they leave the site. Do not attempt to turn on
utilities yourself.
Be watchful for structural damage
caused by the fire. Roofs and floors may be damaged and subject to collapse.
Food, beverages and medicine
exposed to heat, smoke, soot and water should not be consumed.
Leaving Your Home
Contact your local police
departments to let them know the site will be unoccupied.
In some cases it may be necessary
to board up openings to discourage trespassers.
Beginning immediately, save
receipts for any money you spend. These receipts are important in showing the
insurance company what money you have spent related to your fire loss and also
for verifying losses claimed on your income tax.
Do not throw away any damaged
goods until after an inventory is made. All damages are taken into
consideration in developing your insurance claim.
If you are considering
contracting for inventory or repair services discuss your plans with your
insurance agent/company first.