How to Handle a Fire Accident

A fire accident can lead to destruction of personal property, devastating burn injuries that cause painful scarring and disfigurement, disability and a long-term need for care. Victims may be left struggling to pay for medical bills, lost wages and other losses resulting from the tragedy. In some cases, the conflagration could have been prevented by the actions or negligence of another person. Survivors of the incident may file a claim against a responsible party for compensation for their losses.

Household Fires

Candles, fireworks, decorative lighting on Christmas trees and matches or lighters are all common causes of household fire accidents. Unless carefully monitored, these items can be easily knocked over by children or accidentally lit by an inattentive adult. Smoking is also a major cause of these conflagrations, as are cooking appliances, heating devices and heaters. It is important to keep these items out of reach from children and to always blow out candles and other open flames before going to sleep.

Workplace Fires

It is not uncommon for a fire to break out in the workplace due to faulty machinery or equipment, electrical faults, arson and other factors. Employees should be trained in safe working practices and companies must inspect and maintain their equipment to minimize the risk of fire accidents occurring.

When a fire occurs at the workplace, it is important to immediately notify all employees. Those who are not trapped should be instructed to remain calm and leave the premises as soon as it is safe to do so. Those who remain should evacuate the building via a designated meeting point and follow their family emergency communication plan. They should be encouraged to leave their valuables behind and focus on getting themselves out of the premises.

Once outside, the victim should make contact with their family and call emergency services. They should then check on any vulnerable relatives and neighbours to ensure their welfare. Then, they should take stock of the damage to their home and possessions. It is a good idea to make an inventory of items in the house, including dates of purchase and their current value.

If the house or apartment is unsafe to re-enter, victims should seek accommodation elsewhere. They should also contact the fire department and inform them where they are located.

When it comes to filing a claim, the victim should document their losses and expenses by taking photos of their property before the fire and after. They should also write down their memories of the event, get eyewitness accounts and gather any physical evidence that may be available. Once they have gathered this evidence, the victim should consult with an experienced burn injury attorney to discuss their legal options and seek the compensation they deserve. This may include payment of the actual cash value of their belongings or replacement costs, as well as payment for their medical and care expenses. If the fire was caused by the negligence of someone else, they may also be entitled to a wrongful death settlement.