First Call Restoration suggests these 7 Steps to Take Immediately After a House Fire: Ensuring Safety and Restoration
A house fire is one of the most devastating experiences a homeowner can face. The aftermath can feel overwhelming, but taking the right steps can help you protect your loved ones, secure your home, and begin the restoration process as smoothly as possible.
At First Call Restoration KC, we specialize in fire damage restoration and emergency cleanup services in Kansas City and surrounding areas. If you or someone you know has experienced a fire, here’s what to do next.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety First
Before anything else, ensure the safety of everyone involved:
✅ Evacuate Immediately – If the fire is still active or if the structure is compromised, get to a safe location and call 911.
✅ Seek Medical Attention – Smoke inhalation and burns can be dangerous. If anyone has difficulty breathing or is injured, get medical help immediately.
✅ Wait for Clearance – Never re-enter your home until fire officials confirm it’s safe. Lingering hazards like toxic fumes, structural damage, and live electrical wires can be deadly.
Step 2: Contact Emergency Services & Utility Providers
Once the fire is extinguished, take these immediate steps:
📞 Call Your Local Fire Department – Ensure they’ve declared the property safe.
📞 Notify Utility Companies – If gas, electricity, or water lines were damaged, contact your providers to shut them off and prevent further hazards.
📞 Reach Out to a Fire Restoration Specialist – First Call Restoration KC offers 24/7 emergency response to help you secure and restore your home.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company
Filing an insurance claim quickly can help you get financial support for repairs:
📸 Document Everything – Take photos and videos of the damage, both inside and outside.
📝 File Your Claim ASAP – The sooner you contact your insurance company, the faster the claims process will start.
🏠 Ask About Temporary Housing – Many homeowner policies cover temporary housing expenses if your home is unlivable.
Step 4: Secure Your Property from Further Damage
Even after the fire is out, your home is still vulnerable:
🔨 Board Up Windows & Doors – Prevent theft, vandalism, and weather exposure.
🔹 Cover Roof Damage – If there are holes in the roof, tarping it can prevent water damage.
⚠️ Turn Off Utilities – If they weren’t already shut off, disconnect gas, electricity, and water for safety.
🚨 Need help securing your home? First Call Restoration KC can board up, tarp, and reinforce your property to prevent further damage.
Step 5: Inventory Your Losses & Salvage What You Can
To help with insurance claims and recovery:
✅ Make a List of Lost & Damaged Items – Write down everything affected by the fire.
✅ Sort Through Belongings – If safe, recover undamaged valuables and sentimental items.
✅ Store Items Safely – Move salvageable belongings to a secure, dry place to prevent mold and soot damage.
Step 6: Begin Fire Damage Restoration ASAP
Fire restoration is NOT a DIY job. Smoke, soot, and water damage can cause long-term structural and health hazards if not handled properly.
At First Call Restoration KC, we specialize in:
🔥 Fire Damage Cleanup – Removing charred debris, soot, and smoke from your home.
💨 Smoke & Odor Removal – Professional deodorization to eliminate toxic fumes.
💧 Water Damage Restoration – Drying out water from firefighting efforts to prevent mold.
🔍 Structural Assessments – Checking for hidden damage to walls, floors, and ceilings.
📞 Need immediate fire restoration in Kansas City? Call First Call Restoration KC 24/7 at [insert phone number] for expert service.
Step 7: Take Care of Your Mental & Emotional Health
House fires are traumatic. It’s important to prioritize your well-being:
🤝 Lean on Family & Friends – Having a strong support system is key.
💡 Consider Counseling – Fire survivors often experience stress, anxiety, or PTSD.
🏡 Explore Community Assistance – Local organizations may offer temporary housing, food, and financial help.
