Before leaving the scene
Ask the fire department how to obtain the incident report and whether the property is safe to enter. Confirm that every person is accounted for and arrange care for pets. If anyone has breathing trouble, burns, confusion, chest pain, or other concerning symptoms, seek medical help.
Write down the responding agency, incident number if available, and any instructions about utilities or access.
- Safe shelter
- Essential medication
- Phone power and transportation
- A single family point of contact
Open the recovery record
Contact the insurer or agent to start the claim. Ask about emergency lodging, securing the property, and what they want documented before cleanup. Renters should also notify the owner or property manager.
Create one folder for photographs, names, receipts, emails, estimates, and notes from every call. Do not rely on memory during a stressful week.
Protect without overcommitting
Reasonable temporary work may include boarding openings or covering a damaged roof, but only when the scene is safe and the scope is clear. Save receipts. Avoid large permanent repairs until the damage has been inspected and you understand how the work connects to the claim.
Sources and further help
This is general information. Follow instructions from firefighters, medical professionals, utilities, building officials, and your insurer.