No one plans to fall victim to a house fire. It can be an unfortunate reality of life. However, moving forward is a process that can make the difference. In today’s blog, we’ll take a look at the six steps to take after experiencing a fire at your home. We will also take a look at how the fire and smoke restoration process can simplify the recovery process.
Fire and Smoke Restoration Step #1: Verify Your Family Is Safe
When it comes to getting back to normal after a fire event, the most important thing involves the health and well-being of your family. If someone was injured by the event, it’s crucial to have them attended to by a medical professional immediately. Someone may appear completely fine after being present during a fire. However, smoke inhalation and other ailments can appear hours after the event has passed. Take care of the entire family before you even begin the restoration process.
Step #2: Walk Through Your Home to Survey the Damage
Once it has been declared safe to return to your home, you should walk through the entire house. This allows you to determine the severity of damage. Be sure to collect important and irreplaceable items if they are still intact. It’s important to wait until you’ve received the “all-clear” from the firefighting professionals. This minimizes risk of additional injury. If the home is declared unsafe to be entered, wait to enter the property. Make sure a certified restoration professional can walk it with you.
Fire and Smoke Restoration Step #3: Get Your Insurance Company Involved
As soon as possible, contact your insurance company to begin the claims process. This stage can be particularly difficult and time consuming. Breathe and be patient as you undertake your claim. In many cases, your restoration professional will have tips to assist you in getting things done through insurers.
Step #4: Gather Estimates for Fire and Smoke Restoration Work
While it might be tempting to do restoration projects yourself, it’s best to leave these jobs to the professionals. These trained experts have access to industrial tools. They are designed to make light work out of the drying, cleanup, and restoration process. In most cases, hiring a reputable restoration company will save you time, money, and frustration.
Fire and Smoke Restoration Step #5: Document the Restoration Process Carefully
As the restoration process progresses, keep good records of all that has taken place. From estimates to taking photos of the damage, maintaining a file on the process will allow you to keep a careful eye on expenses.
Step #6: Contact Extreme Carpet Care and Restoration
Now that you’ve learned a bit about the fire and smoke restoration process, consider hiring the best of the best: Extreme Carpet Care and Restoration. Our IIRC-certified experts are trained to make your fire recovery process as smooth as possible. For more information on our restoration services, contact us today!
