Navigating the Aftermath of a Home Fire: What to Do and Not Do

Feb 18

A home fire is one of the most traumatic experiences a family can face. The chaos and confusion that follow make it easy to feel overwhelmed. But knowing what to do—and what not to do—can make all the difference in protecting your family, your home, and your future. At Wolverine Restoration, we've helped countless families recover from fire damage, and we're here to guide you through the process. Here's our step-by-step guide to navigating the aftermath of a home fire.

What to Do After a Home Fire

1. Consult with Firefighters Before Reentering

Your first instinct might be to rush back into your home to assess the damage or salvage belongings. But safety comes first. Always consult with the firefighters on the scene before reentering your home. They'll let you know if it's safe to go inside or if the structure is too unstable. Hidden dangers like weakened floors or toxic fumes could pose serious risks even if your home looks intact.

2. Contact Key Parties

Once the immediate danger has passed, it's time to notify the people and organizations who need to know:

Family and Friends: Let your loved ones know what happened and that you're safe.
Your Insurance Company: Start the claims process as soon as possible. Keep detailed records of all expenses, including temporary housing and meals, as these may be reimbursable.
Your Landlord (if applicable): If you're renting, notify your landlord immediately. They'll need to contact their insurance company, and you should reach out to yours if you have renters' insurance.
The American Red Cross: This organization provides essential support to fire victims, including temporary shelter, food, and clothing.

3. Obtain a Fire Report

For insurance purposes, you'll need a copy of the official fire report. This document details the cause of the fire, the extent of the damage, and other critical information. Contact your local fire department a day or two after the fire to request a copy.

4. Secure Your Property

If your home has broken windows, damaged doors, or other openings, it's essential to secure the property to prevent further damage or theft. Wolverine Restoration offers emergency board-up services to protect your home and preserve any undamaged belongings.

5. Call Wolverine Restoration for Fire Damage Cleanup

Fire damage doesn't end when the flames are extinguished. Smoke, soot, and water used to fight the fire can continue to cause harm if not addressed promptly. Wolverine Restoration's fire damage experts are available to:

Remove soot and smoke residue.
Address water damage from firefighting efforts.
Restore your home to its pre-fire condition.

What NOT to Do After a Home Fire

1. Don't Attempt to Clean Up on Your Own

While it's tempting to start cleaning up immediately, improper techniques can worsen the damage. Smoke and soot are acidic and can permanently stain surfaces if not handled correctly. Leave the cleanup to the professionals.

2. Avoid Consuming Food or Beverages Exposed to the Fire

Heat from the fire can activate bacteria in food, making it unsafe to eat. Discard any canned, packaged, or opened items that were in your home during the fire.

3. Don't Restore Electrical Service Without an Inspection

If the fire department disconnected your power, don't attempt to turn it back on until a licensed electrician has inspected your home's wiring. Restoring power too soon could reignite the fire or cause electrical hazards.

4. Stay Calm and Don't Panic

It's natural to feel overwhelmed, but staying calm will help you make better decisions. Remember, recovery is possible, and Wolverine Restoration is here to help every step of the way.

Why Choose Wolverine Restoration?

Recovering from a home fire is a complex process that requires expertise, speed, and compassion. Wolverine Restoration's team of fire damage specialists is trained to handle every aspect of fire recovery, from securing your property to removing smoke odors and restoring your home. We work closely with insurance companies to streamline the claims process, ensuring you get the support you need.

Prevention Tips: Reducing the Risk of Future Fires

Install Smoke Alarms: Ensure you have working smoke detectors on every level of your home.
Practice Fire Safety: Never leave cooking unattended, and keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
Create an Escape Plan: Make sure your family knows how to exit the home safely in case of a fire.

Call Wolverine Restoration – Your Partner in Fire Recovery

If your home has been damaged by fire, don't wait, contact Wolverine Restoration. Our emergency response team is here to help you recover quickly and safely. From securing your property to restoring your home, we'll be with you every step of the way.

Jeremy Ashburn