YOU'VE HAD A SERIOUS FIRE...NOW WHAT?

Hopefully you will never experience a fire. If you do, the first 24 hours afterwards can be a time of confusion. Most people will not be able to think clearly; yet, certain actions must be taken to secure property and start the recovery process. Plan ahead. Learn from these steps. Clip and keep the following checklist in a safe location. To protect your home from additional damage and secure the site:

• Look for signs of heat or smoke, as flames may rekindle in hidden, smoldering remains several hours after the fire.
• Cover holes against rain and entry. Lock or secure outside doors. The Brunswick Fire Department will help you with this initially.
• Notify your insurance agent who may be able to help with immediate repairs. Temporary housing costs may be covered in your policy. Check your yellow pages for a general contractor, fire damage restoration firm or a fire service firm.
• Remove any valuables from the building. Leave once the site is secured.
• Tenants should notify the manager, owner or owner's insurance agent. The owner is responsible for preventing further loss to the property. Secure your personal belongings and call your own insurance agent.
• For temporary shelter, food, clothing or assistance, call the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, fire department or other disaster relief service.
• Discard all food, beverages and medicines exposed to heat, smoke, or soot. Unopened freezers and refrigerators hold their temperatures for a short time, but do not refreeze thawed items.
• Save all receipts related to money spent on fire loss. You will need to verify it to your insurance company and on your federal income tax.
• If you leave your home, remember to call the police. If aware of your absence, they will be able to check on your property.
• Try to take identification, vital medicines (if not exposed to heat or smoke), eyeglasses, hearing aids and other personal belongings with you.
• Do not open your safe, as it may hold intense heat for several hours. Opening it before it cools may cause the contents to burst into flames.
• Be sure to let others know of your relocation, i.e., employer, family, friends, school and delivery services.

For more detailed information see: After the Fire - Returning to Normal

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