What to Do in the First 24 Hours After a House Fire

First, stay safe

• Don't go back in until the fire department says it's safe.
• Keep children and pets away from the property.
• Have an electrician check the system before the power goes back on.
• Wear a mask and gloves if you have to go inside.

Secure the property

• Board up broken windows and doors, and tarp roof openings.
• Lock what can be locked and take valuables with you.
• Turn off the water if pipes were damaged.

Document everything

• Photograph and video every room before anything is moved or cleaned.
• Keep receipts for hotels, meals and emergency purchases.
• Get a copy of the fire department's incident report.

What not to do

• Don't wipe soot off walls or furniture.
• Don't run the HVAC system.
• Don't use electrical appliances that were exposed to heat, smoke or water.
• Don't eat food that was near the fire.
• Don't throw anything away before it's photographed.

Call a restoration company

A licensed restoration company can board up and tarp the same day, then start drying and soot removal. The faster cleanup starts, the more of your home and belongings can be saved.