A practical guide for minimizing damage, ensuring safety, and commencing recovery after a house fire
When a fire affects your home, property, or business, the emotional toll can be just as devastating as the physical damage. However, once the flames are extinguished, time is of the essence. The actions you take within the first 24 to 48 hours can significantly influence how quickly—and effectively—you recover.
Here is a professional-grade checklist for homeowners to follow immediately after a fire:
1. Wait for the Green Light
Even after the flames are out, unseen risks like weakened floors, toxic air quality, and gas leaks may persist. Firefighters or emergency officials must give explicit permission to return.
🛑 Risk examples: Carbon monoxide buildup, compromised roofs or ceilings, smoldering debris that could reignite.
Ask for a written report or walkthrough with fire officials before re-entry.
🔗 FEMA: Tips for Returning Safely
🔗 Cal OES: Returning Home After a Fire
2. Ensure Personal Protection
Wear an N95 (or better) respirator, safety goggles, thick gloves, closed-toe shoes or boots, and long sleeves/pants to prevent exposure to:
• Soot and ash – Contains toxins and carcinogens
• Debris – Sharp objects or unstable furniture
• Residual chemicals – From burned plastics, insulation, or household cleaners
Children, elderly individuals, and those with asthma or heart conditions should not enter the site at all.
🔗 FEMA Safety Fact Sheet
3. Contact Your Insurance Provider
The sooner you file a claim, the faster your recovery can begin.
Notify your home insurance company of the incident and follow their instructions closely. They may assign an adjuster or recommend next steps, but we recommend doing your own research.
Be prepared to provide:
• Photos and videos of visible damage
• A preliminary inventory of lost or damaged belongings
• Details about emergency repairs already performed (e.g. boarding, water extraction)
Tip: Keep receipts for any costs incurred—temporary lodging, meals, or cleanup supplies may be reimbursable.
4. Secure the Premises
Your property must be protected from weather, animals, looters, and further damage.
Fire crews may have forced entry points, broken windows, or cut power/gas lines. It’s your responsibility to ensure the home is stabilized.
Tasks to consider:
• Board up broken windows and doors
• Cover exposed roofs with tarps
• Contact utility companies to shut off or inspect systems
🛠 If you’re unable to secure the home yourself, a licensed restoration company or contractor can assist.
🔗 USFA: After the Fire
Thorough documentation is key to getting full value from your insurance and managing future repairs.
Before cleanup begins:
• Take detailed photos and videos from multiple angles
• Start a written log of damages (structure, appliances, furniture, personal items)
• Keep records of all correspondence with your insurer and contractors
Bonus tip: Use a cloud backup or external hard drive so your files are secure and easily shareable.
📷 Include timestamps in your photo files whenever possible.
6. Contact a Certified Restoration Professional
Post-fire restoration is complex and time-sensitive—professional help is essential.
Damage from water (from firefighting), smoke, and soot worsens the longer it’s left untreated. Certified restoration companies follow industry protocols for:
• Structural drying and dehumidification
• Soot, odor, and smoke removal
• Mold prevention and sanitation
• Reconstruction and rebuild planning
🛡 Look for IICRC-certified professionals with fire and smoke damage training.
Why All Dry Services of the Central Coast?
• 24/7 Emergency Response
• Complete Damage Assessments (fire, water, and structural)
• Certified, Insurance-Approved Technicians
• Odor Control, Demolition, and expert smoke and water remediation
📞 Emergency Line: (805) 600-0133
🌐 Learn more or get help now →
The faster you act, the more you save. Don’t let a bad situation get worse. Partner with a team that understands the urgency and complexity of fire recovery.
All Dry Services
Serving San Luis Obispo & Santa Barbara Counties
Certified • Trusted • Local
