Essential Steps to Take Immediately After a House Fire

9/7/2024 (Permalink)

Experiencing a house fire is a devastating event that can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. In such moments of crisis, it's crucial to take swift and appropriate action to ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and your property. Here at SERVPRO of Shakopee / Savage / Prior Lake, we understand the urgency and importance of addressing fire damage promptly. If you're in Prior Lake and facing fire damage, we're here to help. 

The first steps you take are crucial in setting the foundation for recovery: 

Things to Do Right After A House Fire

1. Ensure Safety: The safety of all family members and pets is the top priority. Evacuate the house, gather at a pre-designated meeting point, and check for injuries.
2. Contact Relevant Parties: Notify your insurance company, inform close family members and friends, and reach out to a reputable fire damage restoration service like SERVPRO of Shakopee / Savage / Prior Lake for professional assistance.
3. Document Damage: Take photos and videos of the damage, make a list of damaged items, and keep receipts for expenses incurred due to the fire.
4. Secure the Property: Board up windows and doors, remove valuable items, and consider temporary fencing to restrict access to the property – only when cleared to do so by professional firefighters.
5. Arrange for Temporary Housing: Contact your insurance company for assistance with temporary living arrangements and keep receipts for housing-related expenses. Some insurance companies have allowances for temporary housing. 

Key Takeaways

• Ensure the safety of all family members and pets.
• Contact insurance, family, and a fire damage restoration service promptly.
• Document damage thoroughly for insurance purposes.
• Secure the property to prevent further damage or theft.
• Arrange for temporary housing and keep related receipts. 

Should you need immediate assistance with fire damage in Prior Lake, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Shakopee / Savage / Prior Lake for professional and reliable services. 

Common Mistakes After a House Fire

It is normal to want things to get back to normal as soon as possible, but by rushing ahead with these common mistakes, you risk yourself and your property. Call SERVPRO of Shakopee / Savage / Prior Lake when you have fire damage in Prior Lake. Our professionals will safely help with the next steps in the cleanup and recovery of the property. 

Avoid:

• Re-entering the house before it has been deemed safe by authorities.
• Neglecting to document the damage thoroughly for insurance purposes.
• Attempting to clean or repair fire-damaged items without professional guidance.
• Failing to secure the property, leading to further damage or theft.
• Not seeking professional help from a fire damage restoration service. 

Myths and Facts

Here are some common myths, and the facts that dispel them.

• Myth: After a house fire, everything will be covered in soot and ashes.
• Fact: While some areas may be visibly affected, other damage may be less apparent, such as smoke odor or water damage from firefighting efforts. 

• Myth: Insurance will cover the full cost of replacing all damaged items.
• Fact: Insurance policies vary, and there may be limitations or exclusions. It's essential to review your policy carefully and consult with your insurance provider. 

• Myth: You should immediately attempt to clean your home after a fire.
• Fact: Cleaning fire-damaged areas without proper equipment and expertise can be dangerous and may worsen the damage. It's best to wait for professional fire damage restoration services. 

• Myth: House fires only happen to careless people.
• Fact: House fires can happen to anyone, even those who take precautions. Electrical malfunctions, cooking accidents, and other unforeseen events can lead to fires. 

• Myth: Once the fire is out, the danger has passed.
• Fact: Fire-damaged structures may have weakened integrity, and there may be hidden health hazards such as asbestos or lead. Professional assessment is crucial before re-entering the home. 

Contact SERVPRO of Shakopee / Savage / Prior Lake

At SERVPRO of Shakopee / Savage / Prior Lake, we are here when you need fire damage restoration services in Prior Lake and are committed to helping you navigate the challenges of recovery. Our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today.