The first 24 hours after a house fire
A calm checklist, in order. You don't have to do everything tonight.
- 1
Stay out until it's cleared
Don't go back inside until the fire department says it is safe. Floors, ceilings and stairs can be weaker than they look, and smoke can still be present.
- 2
Make sure everyone is accounted for
People and pets first. If anyone breathed in smoke or feels unwell, get medical help.
- 3
Call your insurance company
Report the fire and ask what they need from you, whether your policy covers a place to stay, and how they want you to handle emergency repairs. Write down your claim number.
- 4
Get the house secured
Broken windows, open doors and roof holes need board-up and tarping so rain and break-ins don't add damage. Keep receipts.
- 5
Take photos and video of everything
Before anything is moved or thrown away, record every room, the damage, and your belongings. Open closets and drawers on camera.
- 6
Find a place to stay
Family, friends, a hotel or the Red Cross. Ask your insurer about additional living expenses if you can't live at home.
- 7
Don't turn on utilities yourself
Leave electricity, gas and water off until a qualified person checks them. The fire department may have shut them off.
- 8
Call a fire restoration company
They can board up, remove water, start drying within hours, and give you a written scope of the damage to share with your insurer.
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