During Fire Safety Month, much of the focus is on fire prevention—but knowing how to respond in the aftermath is just as important. Experiencing a house fire is devastating, and taking the right steps afterward can help you regain control and start the recovery process. At Lightspeed Restoration, we understand how overwhelming this time can be. That's why we've created a simple, step-by-step guide to help you through the critical stages of recovery after a fire.
Lightspeed Restoration - Fire Safety Month Post-Fire Checklist
- Safety first for yourself and your family
- Connect with your insurance agent
- Get a fire damage restoration assessment
- Make sure your home is secured
- Get temporary repairs
- Hand off the fire damage cleanup to Lightspeed Restoration
- Relax and breathe; the worst is over
Ensure Safety First for Yourself and Your Family
Your safety and that of your family come first. Even if the fire has been extinguished, the structure may remain dangerous. Wait until fire officials have permitted you to re-enter your home. If you must go inside, wear protective clothing such as masks and gloves to protect yourself from soot, ash, and debris.
Contact Your Insurance Representative
Once you are safe, contact your insurance agent as soon as possible. Take pictures and videos of the damage to assist with your insurance claim. It is vital to keep a comprehensive inventory of your damaged belongings. The claims process can be lengthy, so the sooner you start, the better.
Schedule a Professional Damage Assessment
While some damage may be apparent, hidden fire and smoke damage can linger within walls, insulation, and your home's structure. A professional inspection from Lightspeed Restoration will help determine the full extent of the damage. We use specialized equipment to assess fire and smoke damage and any water damage that may have resulted from firefighting efforts. Additionally, we work with your insurance carrier to take some of the stress out of your claims process.
Get Your Home Secured and Temporary Repairs
Following a fire, your home may be vulnerable to the weather or unwanted entrance. It can be hazardous to enter your premises without protective equipment. Lightspeed Restoration provides emergency board-up services to avoid further damage or theft. Our team can also offer temporary repairs, such as tarping a damaged roof until final repairs can be made.
Outsource the Cleanup Process to Professionals
Fire damage restoration is a multi-layered undertaking and requires specialized tools and expertise. Attempting to clean fire or smoke damage alone can worsen the problem. Soot and ash, for example, can become embedded in walls and fabrics if not appropriately handled. Our team at Lightspeed Restoration is trained to clean, deodorize, and restore fire-affected homes safely.
Water Damage is Frequently a Part of Post-Fire Cleanup
Many people don't realize that water damage is often a side effect of fire extinguishing efforts. Mold spores can germinate in damp conditions and begin to spread within 24-48 hours of water exposure, adding another layer of problems to the recovery process. Our team can handle fire and water damage, as well as mold remediation if needed, ensuring a thorough and complete restoration.
Recovering from a house fire is no small task, but you don't have to do it alone. Lightspeed Restoration is here to help you every step of the way, from emergency board-up to the final stages of repair and restoration. If you've recently experienced a fire, call us at (800) 620-4009 to schedule a damage assessment and start the recovery process today.