The Fire is Out – What Now?
A fire in your home can cause serious damage and change your life in many ways you cannot imagine. Harris County ESD No. 48 understands the importance of knowing where to begin and who can help you.
Expect serious damage to your building and belongings, even if you live in an apartment, a single-family, or multifamily home. Flames, heat, smoke, and water can cause severe damage. The fire may not have burned everything up, but smoke and water can ruin anything you want to save. Cleanup will take time and patience, and anything you want to reuse will need to be carefully cleaned.
Firefighters may have broken windows, cut holes in the roof and walls to ensure the fire is out. This slows the fire’s growth and gets rid of dark smoke that makes it hard for firefighters to see. It’s important to understand the risks to your safety and health even after the fire is out.
It is crucial to understand that your safety and health are at risk, even after the fire is out. The soot and dirty water left behind may contain harmful substances. Be careful when going into your home and when touching any fire-damaged items. Seek advice from the fire department, local building official, your insurance agent, and restoration specialists before cleaning or making repairs.
The following information can guide you through the things you must do next. Stay safe and take the necessary steps to recover from a fire.
Helpful link to additional resources and information:
American Red Cross – After the Fire
U.S. Fire Administration – After the Fire
U.S. Fire Administration – After the Fire (Spanish)
Ready.gov – After the Fire (12 languages)