3 Actions to Take Immediately After a Home Fire

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Replace important documents

After a fire in your home in Pompano Beach, FL, you may be overwhelmed by the incident and have no idea what to do afterwards. While you naturally need some time to process these events, it is important to act and forge the path to continuing your life. Consider the following actions to get the right resources, throw away damaged items and replace anything you will need soon.

Gather Essential Resources

Whether you lived in a small house alone or a larger building with a family, you will need as much help as possible. Prioritize the essentials, such as food, rest and shelter. Contact organizations such as the American Red Cross that can help you obtain these resources as you get back on your feet. Also contact your insurance company and provide them with details about the fire.

Get Rid of Vulnerable Items

As you work with the fire cleanup company to restore the residence to its former glory, you will need to make important decisions on what items to keep and which ones to throw away. There are certain items that are more vulnerable to contamination created by fire damage than others.

• Damaged, burned clothing
  
• All perishable and non-perishable foods
  
• Medications
  
• Toiletries and cosmetics
  
  

These items can be chemically altered by high heat or contaminated by ash, soot or smoke. Even if they are not significantly changed, their taste or performance may become undesirable.

Replace Important Documents

In addition to food, medicine and other items weak to the effects of the fire, your documents are also likely victims. There are particular documents you will need to replace immediately, including the driver's license, social security cards and credit cards, as well as more. Make the necessary calls and ensure new copies are on the way.
The aftermath of a fire will have you make important decisions, from what items to throw away to calling for assistance. Take your time, recover and tackle these situations as they manifest.