3 Initial Steps To Take After a Fire in Your Home

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Lizard Lick, NC

A residential fire can be a terrifying and unsettling experience for any homeowner. If you have experienced fire damage in your Lizard Lick, NC, home, having some information about what to expect may help you navigate the early stages of cleanup and restoration. It’s important to move quickly into the cleanup to prevent secondary damage, but the most important first step is ensuring your home is safe to enter.

Confirm the Safety of Your Home

Once the fire is extinguished, a fire safety specialist will likely inspect key areas of potential damage to determine whether entering your home is safe.

• The Electrical System may be inspected for damage and will likely be disconnected from power until the water can be safely removed from the dwelling.
  
• The Structural Integrity of stairwells, floors and ceilings may be inspected for fire damage, to determine whether they are stable enough to support cleanup.
  
• Hazardous Chemicals may be examined to assess their stability and confirm no unique dangers remain.
  
  
  

This important inspection can protect you and your family from incidents that could only complicate an already difficult situation.

Survey the Damage

Once your home is cleared for safe entry, a fire official will generally accompany you to survey your property. You may notice, in addition to fire and smoke damage, that water damage from the pressurized fire hose may be significant. Once you have an overview, it is important to call your insurance agent to ask about the details of your coverage and schedule with an adjuster.

Hire a Professional Remediation Expert

It is strongly recommended that you hire a specialist to manage the complex fire and water cleanup process. Professional teams know how to clean and dry your damaged property quickly and safely. They have access to specialized equipment and methods for restoring your structure and belongings as completely as possible.

Home fire damage can mean extreme physical and emotional stress for you and your family. The initial impact can make even small tasks difficult. Safely assessing your damage and seeking expert assistance are your first steps in the direction of returning to your home and your peace of mind.