Moving forward after a fire at your Poway or Oceanside home can be complicated. You experience an incredible amount of stress as you begin to face feelings of loss and insecurity. It is essential to understand that after the trauma of a home fire, you will need to travel a path of recovery that will require time and help from many professionals. When embarking on the cleanup process after the fire, you need to find patience and the help of caring professionals who understand the tragedy you are working through, to safely and efficiently guide you through the fire damage cleanup and healing process.
First, Take A Deep Breath
After a house fire, most homeowners are very focused on getting their life, and the lives of their loved ones back to normal. Unfortunately, it can take a bit of time even to begin the process. Resist the desire to wade into the rubble to start salvaging keepsakes, documents, and other personal items. Leave those tasks to trained professionals who have the proper protective gear to enter a home after a fire.
Call Your Insurance Agent
If you have not contacted your insurance agent, make that call as quickly as possible. They will provide you with their process for accessing the damage and hiring a professional to begin the recovery and restoration process. Most insurance companies have preferred professionals who are very knowledgeable about their methods, relieving much of your stress.
Find A Safe And Peaceful Place
Even in the case of a minor fire, smoke, soot, and other harmful chemicals were released into your home. Find a safe and quiet place for you and your loved one to stay until the house has been professionally inspected and is safe for you and your family to return. If you are having difficulty locating a safe place, the Red Cross offers assistance locating temporary housing.
Securing Your Property
The size of the fire and the amount of damage will dictate how big a challenge it will be to secure your home after a fire. Substantial damage can make this process very intensive. However, your restoration company should provide all of the labor and materials needed to meet your insurance company and the municipalities requirements for securing the area.
Understand The Dangers After A Fire
Toxic chemical fumes, soot, and smoke are all potentially hazardous and will exist in your home and permeate the items in your home. Fabrics, clothing, and furniture could all be harboring toxic fumes. In addition, food items, medicine, and cosmetics could be contaminated. Defer to the expertise of your restoration company when deciding what is safe to keep.
The process of sorting through your belongings after a house fire can be upsetting and potentially dangerous. Never risk your safety or a loved one’s safety. Instead, be thankful that your family is safe and let the Renovation Pros handle all potentially hazardous items from inside your home. Call 951-225-1570 24/7 after a fire in your home.
