You don’t have to be a homeowner to understand the fear of a house fire. Aside from being a place of shelter and security, it’s likely the biggest investment you’re ever going to make, so you can imagine the loss if it were to go up in flames and the devastation it could cause in a matter of mere moments. Home fires can happen from a variety of causes such as candles, smoking, cooking accidents or electrical issues. There are precautions you can take to prevent a house fire, and there are seven steps you should take to minimize the pain of experiencing one.
Seven ways to get back on your feet after a home fire:
- Find Safe Shelter
After a fire, no matter how severe, it’s best not to stay in your home. Even if your home isn’t completely lost, the lingering smoke and ash can make your home unsafe until it is remediated. If you can’t stay with a relative or a friend, you can contact any local disaster relief agency to help you find safe shelter. When you leave your home, be sure it is protected from trespassers and bad weather. You’ll want to cover any fire damage holes with a tarp or weather-proof plastic.
- Start an Insurance Claim as Soon as Possible
You should reach out and call your home insurance agency as soon as you can to begin a claim addressing the fire damage your home has suffered. If included in your policy, you may also be compensated from your insurance for any living expenses and extra costs you experience while you’re displaced from your home.
- Be Sure to Request a Fire Report
In some cases, a fire report from your local fire department may be required to file claims with your home insurance company. Possession of records of the incident supporting your claim and proving your damages is always beneficial.
- Your Belongings Should be Covered Too
Encompassing the whole home, many insurance policies will cover the replacement of your possessions in addition to damage to the structure itself. So, if it’s included in your policy, be sure to file a claim for any belongings that were lost in the house fire. This is a great reason to keep inventory of all the possessions in your home, and the value of each item. A home inventory that includes the price of your belongings and the date purchased is a significant advantage in a fire claim, yet most homeowners never think to create one.
- Have Your Pets Seen by a Veterinarian
If your pets were in the home at the time of the fire, be sure to get them checked by a veterinarian for any burns or other issues. Just like humans, a pet’s lungs can get damaged by smoke. Bathe your pets to get the lingering smoke smell out of their fur.
- Maintain Financial Responsibilities
Even if your home is damaged or completely lost to the fire, you are still required to make your monthly payments to the mortgage company. That goes for your automobile, credit card, and utility payments, too.
- Handle Yourself and Your Family with Care
The stress and upheaval from a sudden disaster like a home fire is hard to cope with and can impact your mental health, and the mental health of anyone living in the home with you. Especially kids. So be kind and caring to yourself and don’t be shy about talking about how you feel with family, friends or even a therapist.
Conclusion
Sudden disaster, whether brought on by man or nature can be devastating. The chaos and grief can be overwhelming and in addition to what could be profound loss, you’re left to contend with the lingering effects of smoke, odors, mold, water residue and more as result. All of these can create long-term problems for your property and must be addressed appropriately by a knowledgeable and reputable professional.
Backed with over 65 years of experience, ServiceMaster Restoration by DSM is the premier choice for victims of home fires in Livonia, Northville, Novi, or anywhere in the Tri-County area. Offering the restoration services you need to get back in your home, this skilled team of technicians is committed to restoring your peace of mind,24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Visit Restore by DSM to learn more or get help!